Cherice Bock | Ecospirituality | Best Research Article Award

Posted on by ScienceFather

Dr Cherice Bock | Ecospirituality | Best Research Article Award

Adjunct Faculty, Earlham School of Religion,United States

Cherice Bock is a scholar and advocate at the intersection of spirituality and environmental sustainability. With a deep commitment to ecospirituality and climate justice, she is currently a Climate Policy Manager at 350PDX in Portland, OR, and an adjunct professor of Spirituality & Ecospirituality at the Earlham School of Religion. Her research and teaching explore the connections between faith, ecological action, and environmental policy. Bock holds a Ph.D. in Environmental Studies from Antioch University New England and has extensive experience in academic and nonprofit sectors. She has contributed to several publications on ecotheology, creation care, and sustainable faith practices. Her academic work integrates theology, environmental science, and spiritual practices to address the urgent ecological challenges of our time. Cherice’s diverse experience and dedication to environmental advocacy make her a leading voice in ecospirituality and climate justice.

Profile

Strengths for the Award

  1. Strong Educational Foundation: The individual holds a Ph.D. in Environmental Studies from Antioch University New England (2024), complemented by an M.S. in the same field (2018), which demonstrates significant expertise in environmental studies. This, combined with degrees in theology (M.Div., 2009) and psychology (B.A., 2001), reflects a diverse, multidisciplinary academic background that integrates environmental science with spirituality, ethics, and human psychology.
  2. Extensive Teaching Experience: The individual has extensive teaching experience across a wide range of institutions, including prominent positions at Earlham School of Religion, University of Portland, George Fox University, and others. The variety of courses taught (e.g., Spirituality & the Mystics, Ecospirituality, Environmental Justice, Introduction to Environmental Science) highlights their broad intellectual reach, especially in the interdisciplinary integration of theology, environmental studies, and spirituality. This experience speaks to their ability to effectively communicate complex ideas to students and mentor future scholars.
  3. Research and Publication: The individual has contributed significantly to academic research and publication, as evidenced by their book chapters such as “Quaker Pneumatology” in the T and T Clark Handbook of Pneumatology and “Watershed Discipleship: Communicating Climate Change Within a Christian Framework” in Climate Change Management. These contributions are particularly notable for integrating climate change communication with religious and theological frameworks, demonstrating a novel approach to addressing ecological crises.
  4. Leadership in Climate Advocacy and Ecospirituality: The individual has played a leadership role in multiple organizations, including as the Climate Policy Manager for 350PDX, where they have been involved in environmental advocacy, climate policy, and interfaith initiatives. Their work as a Creation Justice Advocate at Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon and Oregon Interfaith Power & Light further demonstrates their commitment to environmental justice from both a faith-based and policy perspective. This combination of environmental activism and spiritual leadership is a rare and valuable strength.
  5. Recognition and Fellowships: They have received numerous prestigious fellowships, including the GreenFaith Fellowship and the Re:Generate Fellowship. These accolades demonstrate recognition from leading institutions in the fields of faith, environmental stewardship, and leadership.
  6. Contributions to Quaker Thought: As a Quaker Scholar, their work, such as their lectures on “Better Together with the Community of Creation” and involvement in various Quaker residencies, illustrates a deep commitment to integrating Quaker theology with contemporary environmental issues. Their research and advocacy work position them as a thought leader in ecospirituality, particularly within the Quaker tradition.

Areas for Improvement

  1. Wider Public Engagement: While the individual has demonstrated excellence in academia and faith-based advocacy, there may be an opportunity to engage more extensively with a broader public audience. Their expertise in ecospirituality and environmental policy could be better showcased through popular publications, media appearances, or community-based outreach initiatives that bring these ideas to wider audiences outside of academia and faith communities.
  2. Broader Research Dissemination: Although they have contributed to significant academic works, further efforts to disseminate research in peer-reviewed journals or through collaborative interdisciplinary research projects would enhance their visibility in the global research community. Expanding their research portfolio to include more empirical studies and case studies could deepen their impact in both the environmental science and theology fields.
  3. Research Funding: While they have received grants and fellowships, pursuing more targeted funding opportunities for large-scale research projects, particularly those that merge environmental science with spirituality or theology, could strengthen their research capacity and enable them to make an even greater impact on global climate policy discussions.

Education 

Cherice Bock holds a Ph.D. in Environmental Studies from Antioch University New England (2024), where she has focused on integrating spirituality and environmental sustainability. She also earned an M.S. in Environmental Studies from the same institution in 2018. Prior to her environmental studies, she completed a Master of Divinity (M.Div.) at Princeton Theological Seminary in 2009, where she specialized in the intersection of faith and ecological justice. Her undergraduate degree in Psychology from George Fox University (2001) provided her with a foundation in human behavior and mental health, which she has applied to her work in spiritual formation and eco-psychology. Bock’s academic background combines theology, psychology, and environmental science, offering a multidisciplinary approach to addressing the complex issues of climate change, faith, and ecological restoration.

Experience 

Cherice Bock has a diverse career in both academia and activism, with a focus on ecospirituality and climate policy. She currently serves as the Climate Policy Manager at 350PDX in Portland, OR, where she advocates for policies addressing climate change. As an adjunct professor, Bock teaches courses on spirituality and ecospirituality at Earlham School of Religion and has taught Environmental Studies and Theology at the University of Portland. She has been deeply involved in faith-based environmental activism, serving as a Creation Justice Advocate with Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon. Bock’s work also extends to curriculum development, having edited the Illuminate Friends Bible Study Curriculum for Barclay Press. Her role as a tutor at Woodbrooke Quaker Learning & Research Organization further demonstrates her commitment to educational leadership. Bock’s experience uniquely positions her as a leader in the integration of spiritual practice and environmental action.

Awards and Honors 

Cherice Bock has received numerous prestigious awards and fellowships in recognition of her contributions to ecospirituality, climate justice, and faith-based environmental advocacy. She was named a Quaker Lecturer in 2022 for her work on creation care and spirituality, and served as Friend in Residence for North Pacific Yearly Meeting in 2021. In 2018, she was a Research Fellow in the Creation Care Program at Portland Seminary, where she focused on sustainable faith practices. Bock has also been a Scholar in Residence at the Center for Christian Studies and Quaker Heritage Day. Her work has been supported by grants such as the Clarence & Lily Pickett Endowment for Quaker Leadership and GreenFaith Fellowship. Through these honors, Bock has gained recognition as a leader in the integration of theology and environmental justice, influencing both academic and activist communities.

Research Focus 

Cherice Bock’s research focuses on the intersection of spirituality and environmental sustainability, with an emphasis on ecospirituality and climate justice. Her work explores how religious and spiritual practices can inspire ecological awareness and motivate environmental action. She is particularly interested in the role of Christian theology and faith-based communities in addressing climate change and creation care. Her research includes examining mystical experiences and ecojustice within religious contexts, as well as developing educational frameworks that help individuals and communities navigate the ecological crisis from a faith-based perspective. Bock’s focus also includes eco-theology, spiritual formation, and environmental policy. Her goal is to bridge the gap between spiritual beliefs and environmental practices, helping to create more sustainable, faith-driven responses to climate challenges. Through her academic work and activism, Bock seeks to advance restorative justice for the environment.

Publications

  1. Quaker Pneumatology – T and T Clark Handbook of Pneumatology (2020), pp. 235–242 🌿
  2. Watershed Discipleship: Communicating Climate Change Within a Christian Framework: A Case Study Analysis – Climate Change Management (2018), pp. 161–182 🌍

Conclusion

The individual is a highly deserving candidate for the “Best Researcher Award” based on their impressive academic credentials, significant teaching and leadership roles, and groundbreaking research at the intersection of environmental studies and spirituality. Their interdisciplinary approach to climate advocacy, combined with a deep commitment to faith-based action, positions them as a unique and influential voice in both academic and activist circles.While there is room for growth in terms of public engagement and broader research dissemination, their current body of work and recognized leadership in both environmental and theological circles demonstrate the potential for further contributions that will have a lasting impact on the fields of ecospirituality and environmental policy.In conclusion, this candidate not only fulfills but exceeds the qualifications typically required for the “Best Researcher Award” through their academic achievements, innovative research contributions, and ongoing leadership in environmental advocacy and ecospirituality.

Cherice Bock | Ecospirituality | Best Research Article Award

Posted on by ScienceFather

Cherice Bock | Ecospirituality | Best Research Article Award

Adjunct Faculty,  Earlham School of Religion, United States

Cherice Bock is an interdisciplinary scholar and advocate whose work lies at the intersection of environmental studies, theology, and social justice. With a Ph.D. in Environmental Studies (2024) from Antioch University New England, Bock integrates spirituality and environmental activism, exploring how faith traditions can inform sustainable practices and climate action. She serves as an adjunct professor at Earlham School of Religion and the University of Portland, where she teaches courses in ecospirituality and theology. As a Climate Policy Manager at 350PDX, Bock also advocates for climate justice through policy initiatives. Her academic and professional efforts reflect a deep commitment to environmental stewardship, social equity, and religious leadership. Bock’s published work and community leadership aim to connect spiritual practices with ecological care, offering insights into ecotheology and creation justice. Her ongoing contributions make her a leading voice in faith-based environmental movements.

Profile

Google Scholar

Scopus

Strengths for the Award

  1. Multidisciplinary Expertise:
    • Ecospirituality and Environmental Studies: Dr. Bock has an extensive background in both environmental studies and theology, allowing her to bridge these fields through her research and teaching. Her Ph.D. work in Environmental Studies from Antioch University and her M.S. in the same field, along with her M.Div. from Princeton Theological Seminary, reflect a deep and integrated understanding of both spiritual and environmental concerns.
  2. Teaching and Mentorship:
    • She has served as an adjunct professor at multiple institutions, including Earlham School of Religion and University of Portland, where she teaches courses on ecospirituality, climate policy, and theology. This shows her ability to inspire and guide students across multiple disciplines.
  3. Climate Action and Policy Work:
    • Dr. Bock is currently engaged as a Climate Policy Manager at 350PDX, working to address climate change through policy advocacy and public engagement. This practical involvement in climate action adds real-world relevance and urgency to her academic research.
  4. Interfaith and Ecumenical Leadership:
    • Through her role as a Creation Justice Advocate with organizations like Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon and Oregon Interfaith Power & Light, she demonstrates a commitment to interfaith dialogue and social justice within environmental work, enriching her academic research with community-based application.
  5. Research and Publications:
    • Dr. Bock’s published work includes chapters like “Watershed Discipleship: Communicating Climate Change Within a Christian Framework” and “Quaker Pneumatology”, which contribute valuable insights into how theology and spirituality can inform responses to climate change. Her research not only addresses academic audiences but also has the potential for real-world application in the intersection of faith and environmental justice.
  6. Awards and Fellowships:
    • Dr. Bock has received several prestigious fellowships and awards, including the Clarence & Lily Pickett Endowment for Quaker Leadership and the GreenFaith Fellowship. These accolades speak to her recognized leadership and dedication in the fields of religious leadership and environmental advocacy.

Areas for Improvement

  1. Expanded Public Scholarship:
    • While Dr. Bock’s academic publications are commendable, there appears to be room for broader public-facing scholarship, such as through popular books or media platforms. Expanding her influence outside of academic journals could help her reach a wider audience, particularly those in communities where faith-based environmental work is gaining traction.
  2. Collaborative Research:
    • While her individual research is impactful, there could be greater emphasis on collaborative, interdisciplinary research projects that connect environmental science, policy, theology, and spirituality. This could help amplify the impact of her work and bring new perspectives to the challenges she addresses.
  3. Quantitative Research in Climate Policy:
    • Given her role as a climate policy manager, there may be an opportunity to strengthen her research by incorporating more quantitative methods or policy analysis frameworks that can directly influence climate policy and adaptation strategies, providing more empirical data to support her advocacy.

Education 

Cherice Bock holds a Ph.D. in Environmental Studies (2024) from Antioch University New England, where she developed an integrated approach to understanding the intersection of faith, ecology, and social justice. She also earned an M.S. in Environmental Studies (2018) from the same institution. Prior to this, Bock completed her M.Div. (2009) at Princeton Theological Seminary, equipping her with a theological foundation for addressing the spiritual and ethical dimensions of ecological issues. Her B.A. in Psychology (2001) from George Fox University provided her with an understanding of human behavior, which she later applied to the study of spirituality and environmental consciousness. Bock’s diverse academic background allows her to approach climate justice through a multidisciplinary lens, blending theology, environmental science, and social theory. Her education supports her research in ecospirituality, creation care, and interfaith environmental action.

Experience 

Cherice Bock has a broad range of academic, advocacy, and leadership experience in environmental studies, spirituality, and social justice. Since 2023, she has served as an Adjunct Professor of Spirituality & Ecospirituality at Earlham School of Religion, teaching courses like Spirituality & the Mystics and Ecospirituality. She is also an Adjunct Professor of Environmental Studies at the University of Portland, where she teaches courses such as Introduction to Environmental Science and Biblical Texts in Global Context. As Climate Policy Manager at 350PDX (Portland, OR), Bock works on advocacy and policy to address climate change. From 2020 to 2023, she served as a Creation Justice Advocate at Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon and Oregon Interfaith Power & Light, promoting faith-based environmental action. Additionally, Bock has been an Editor for Illuminate Friends Bible Study and has taught extensively in ecotheology at George Fox University and Portland Seminary.

Awards and Honors 

Cherice Bock has received numerous awards and fellowships recognizing her leadership in ecospirituality, environmental advocacy, and theology. She was a Quaker Lecturer at the Western Yearly Meeting (2022), where she shared her insights on the theme, “Better Together with the Community of Creation.” In 2021, Bock served as a Friend in Residence at the North Pacific Yearly Meeting. She was named Scholar in Residence at Berkeley Friends Church (2018), and at the Center for Christian Studies, Reedwood Friends Church (2017). Bock has been a Research Fellow at the Creation Care Program of Portland Seminary (2018), funded by the Seminary Stewardship Alliance. She has also been the recipient of the Clarence & Lily Pickett Endowment for Quaker Leadership grant (2018), the GreenFaith Fellowship (2016), and the Re:Generate Fellowship at Wake Forest University (2015). These honors reflect her impact in the realms of faith, climate justice, and social transformation.

Research Focus

Cherice Bock’s research focuses on the intersection of environmental studies, theology, and social justice, particularly within the context of ecospirituality and creation care. She explores how religious traditions, particularly Christianity and Quakerism, can inspire ethical responses to climate change and environmental degradation. Bock’s work also delves into ecotheology, examining the spiritual and ethical implications of human stewardship of the Earth. She has a strong interest in faith-based climate policy, working to integrate religious values with environmental activism and social justice initiatives. Her research is grounded in the belief that spirituality can play a pivotal role in promoting sustainable living practices and combating environmental injustice. Through her writing, teaching, and advocacy, Bock addresses the critical issues of climate change, resource equity, and the ethical responsibilities of communities of faith to engage in creation care. Her work aims to offer a transformative framework for both religious communities and environmental activists.

Publications

  • Quaker Pneumatology (2020) – T and T Clark Handbook of Pneumatology
  • Watershed Discipleship: Communicating Climate Change Within a Christian Framework: A Case Study Analysis (2018) – Climate Change Management

Conclusion

Dr. Cherice Bock is a highly deserving candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. Her work stands out for its unique interdisciplinary focus, blending environmental studies, theology, and ecospirituality, and her ability to apply this research in meaningful ways both within academic settings and in real-world environmental advocacy. She has demonstrated leadership in addressing climate change from a faith-based perspective, integrating social justice with environmental sustainability. The breadth of her experience, along with her active involvement in policy, teaching, and scholarship, makes her a powerful voice in the intersection of spirituality and environmental action.Recognizing Dr. Bock with this award would honor her significant contributions to environmental studies and climate policy while also encouraging the continued integration of faith with ecological stewardship.