Elmhurst University Welcomes Rev. Amanda Gott as New Chaplain

Elmhurst University has appointed the Rev. Amanda Gott as its new university chaplain, effective this summer. Gott was selected through a national search and currently serves as the interfaith chaplain at The University of the South, an Episcopal liberal arts college located in Sewanee, Tennessee. In her role, she ensures students have the resources and support to express their religious and spiritual identities fully.

Gott’s responsibilities at Elmhurst will include collaborating with student leaders and campus partners to create meaningful programming, as well as providing spiritual care to students. The Vice President for Student Affairs, Keri Alioto, expressed enthusiasm about Gott’s appointment. “Reverend Gott is a dynamic, highly visible leader who brings a wonderful combination of empathetic leadership and strategic vision to her role,” Alioto stated in a news release. She emphasized that Gott’s authentic presence and commitment to student-centered ministry will significantly benefit the Elmhurst community.

Amanda Gott remarked that the university initially attracted her due to its unique blend of community and opportunity. “It’s small enough to be a real community, but also large enough to offer a lot of opportunities and resources to students,” she said. Gott noted the diversity of the student body, highlighting that she looks forward to serving individuals with varied backgrounds and experiences.

During her visit to the campus, Gott was impressed by the students she encountered and their insightful questions. “I was just really impressed by the students that I met, the questions they asked and the things they had to say,” she shared. She also appreciated the dedication of the faculty and staff, recognizing their passion for student service.

Gott’s extensive background includes serving as rector in Episcopal churches across Nebraska and New England. She holds a bachelor’s degree in religious studies and world religions from Bard College in Annandale-on-Hudson, New York. Additionally, she earned a master of divinity from the Iliff School of Theology in Denver, Colorado, and a master of sacred theology from the General Theological Seminary of the Episcopal Church in New York City. Furthermore, she completed an ACPE Clinical Pastoral Education residency at St. Anthony Hospitals in Denver.

With her diverse experience and commitment to fostering a supportive environment, Rev. Amanda Gott is set to make a significant impact at Elmhurst University, enriching the spiritual life of the campus community.