University Speaking Program

Are you looking for a radical perspective on cultural issues to stir discussion in your university class or program? Young people from the Bruderhof are available to speak to students about community during and after college, explore the practical applications of faith in daily life, and exchange viewpoints on topics of concern.

Why consider the intentional community perspective? Innumerable recent studies detail the rise of isolation, depression, and loneliness across all demographics. In response to the epidemic of loneliness, our generation is reorganizing priorities to emphasize fulfillment, depth of connection, and lasting friendships.

Within this context, intentional Christian community provides a unique yet biblical perspective on both cultural concerns and popular alternatives young people are gravitating to.

Speakers are available for lectures, panel discussions, or informal conversations over a shared meal.

Email us at contact@bruderhof.com to book a speaker. We will respond promptly to confirm availablity and make the necessary arrangements.

Our Speakers

  • Derek Meier

    Derek Meier

    Derek holds a degree in Political Science with a focus on law and economics. Working as Marketing Director for Rifton Equipment, he maintains a wide range of interests including how faith intersects with law and politics and international affairs.

  • Sheyann McPherson

    Sheyann McPherson

    Sheyann has a degree in Cultural History and English Literature from the University of Pittsburgh, where she participated as a fellow in the Beatrice Institute. She lives as a member of the Bruderhof in upstate New York. Her studies and ongoing interest include the history of intentional communal living and the convergence of faith and community.

  • Alan Koppschall

    Alan Koppschall

    Alan has a degree in Literature and Philosophy from Siena College. He works as a contributing editor for Plough Quarterly.

  • Sandra Blough

    Sandra Blough

    Sandra studied education at SUNY Cobleskill, and teaches at the Woodcrest Bruderhof elementary school. Sandra draws inspiration from living out her faith in the daily life of church community.

  • Dylan Meier

    Dylan Meier

    Dylan has a degree in Politics, Philosophy, and Economics from the University of Pittsburgh. He currently lives at the Maple Ridge Bruderhof, where he works in Sales and Marketing for Community Playthings.

  • Kaiya Huleatt

    Kaiya Huleatt

    Kaiya studied Primary Education in the UK and currently lives and teaches at the Fox Hill Bruderhof in upstate New York. She is interested in all things education and community.

  • Heather Arnold

    Heather Arnold

    As a teen, Heather lived in Paraguay and later volunteered as an EFL teacher at a GED preparation program for refugee students on the Thai-Myanmar border. These experiences of extreme poverty and violence shaped her worldview and inspired her to find a sustainable and just solution to these problems. She now lives and teaches at the Woodcrest Bruderhof in upstate New York.

  • Isaac Potts

    Isaac Potts

    Isaac has gained experience in outreach ministry since graduating high school from The Mount Academy. He now lives in New York State and works in supply chains and logistics for Community Products.

  • Karena Rimes

    Karena Rimes

    Karena holds a degree in Early Childhood Education from Dutchess Community College. She currently works in child care at the Woodcrest Bruderhof

  • Martin Kurtz

    Martin Kurtz

    Martin studied Biology at Stony Brook University and is now an educator at a Bruderhof grade school. He is passionate about communal living and the intersection of faith and science.

  • Janine Thomson

    Janine Thomson

    Janine studied occupational therapy at the University of Albany and the University of Queensland. She now works in the child care at the Woodcrest Bruderhof, and cares for a young woman with disabilities.