Perkins Faculty Honored at American Theological Society Conference 

Perkins School of Theology is pleased to share the recent honors and scholarly contributions of three esteemed faculty members at the 2025 Annual Meeting of the American Theological Society (ATS), held April 4–5.

Founded in 1912, the American Theological Society is the oldest professional theological society in North America. Membership is by nomination and election and is limited to 100 members at any given time. The purpose of the Society is to foster research excellence in the various theological disciplines and to cultivate collegial relationships.

Dr. Frederick Aquino, Professor of Systematic Theology at Perkins, was elected to membership in the American Theological Society. His election recognizes his outstanding contributions to theological scholarship and signals a growing national recognition of his academic leadership. Aquino’s work explores the intersections of epistemology, spiritual perception, and the theology of John Henry Newman, and he is widely respected for his commitment to rigorous scholarship and theological formation.

Dr. Karen Baker-Fletcher, Professor of Systematic Theology and current ATS member, presented a scholarly paper at the annual gathering titled "Becoming Christian and Buddhist: Poetics and Koans." Her presentation explored themes of interreligious identity and the integration of spiritual practices through poetic and philosophical expression. Dr. Baker-Fletcher is known nationally and internationally for her theological work in womanist thought, constructive theology, and religious imagination.

Dr. Ruben L.F. Habito, Professor of World Religions and Spirituality, delivered the 2025 Presidential Address at the conference. His talk, "Effing the Ineffable: Charting Tasks for Christian Theology in Our Troubling Times," challenged listeners to consider how theology can respond to contemporary challenges with depth, nuance, and spiritual courage. A pioneering voice in Buddhist-Christian dialogue and contemplative theology, Dr. Habito's leadership within the ATS and across global theological communities continues to inspire scholars and students alike.

For more information about Perkins faculty achievements and events, visit smu.edu/perkins.