Dr. Keith A. Hess, associate professor of philosophy and apologetics at Oklahoma Baptist University (OBU), has been named president of the Evangelical Philosophical Society. The appointment highlights his contributions to the field of philosophy, particularly in the areas of philosophy of religion, analytic theology, and Christian apologetics.
Hess joined OBU’s faculty as the Jewell and Joe Huitt associate professor in religious education and associate professor of philosophy and apologetics after becoming a tenured philosophy professor at the College of Southern Nevada in Las Vegas.
“Not only is Dr. Hess an accomplished scholar and teacher, but he is a faithful Christian and churchman,” said Dr. Brandon Smith, chair of the OBU Hobbs School of Theology and Ministry. “These qualities make him a valued colleague and professor here at OBU and I am confident that EPS will benefit from his leadership for these same reasons.”
His academic journey began with a bachelor of arts in biblical studies from The Master’s University, followed by a master of arts in philosophy of religion and ethics from Biola University and culminated with a Ph.D. in philosophy from the University of California, Santa Barbara.
At OBU, his teaching encompasses a wide range of philosophy and apologetics courses, where he emphasizes life’s big questions and encourages students to cultivate a coherent worldview rooted in Christian faith.
His colleague Dr. Randy Ridenour, professor of philosophy at OBU, said of his appointment: “I, along with many others at OBU, would like to extend my personal congratulations to Dr. Hess for his election as the president of the Evangelical Philosophical Society. It is a great privilege to have one of our own assume the leadership of one of the premier organizations dedicated to being the voice of the intellectual defensibility and rationality of biblical Christian faith in contemporary culture. Dr. Hess’s election is one more instance of the many exciting ways that the faculty, staff and students of the Hobbs School of Theology and Ministry continue to impact the world for the Kingdom of God.”
In addition to teaching, Hess is an established scholar. His recent publications include reviews and articles in “Philosophia Christi,” the Evangelical Philosophical Society’s flagship journal. His works underscore his influence in advancing the dialogue between philosophy and Christian theology. He is also currently developing a forthcoming book on Augustine’s Confessions with an academic press.
The Evangelical Philosophical Society, established in 1974, is an organization of professional Christian philosophers committed to the faithful practice of philosophy in service to the academy, church, and society. It seeks to glorify God through scholarship that advances a deeper understanding of the world and the Christian faith. Through its annual conferences, regional meetings, and the publication of “Philosophia Christi,” the society fosters collaboration among scholars and engagement with philosophical and spiritual issues.
As president, Hess will lead the society’s mission to promote rigorous scholarship while supporting the integration of faith and reason. The Evangelical Philosophical Society plays a significant role in global discussions, hosting events in conjunction with the Evangelical Theological Society and the American Academy of Religion/Society of Biblical Literature. Its vision includes influencing contemporary culture and equipping Christians to address philosophical challenges within and beyond academia.
Hess resides in Shawnee with his wife, Lorna and their four children, Allie, Sophie, Zoey and Eli.
