Bethany J. Welch, Ph.D.  is the founding director of Aquinas Center. Her research on the Catholic Church and urban revitalization prompted Philadelphia’s St. Thomas Aquinas parish to invite her to help them repurpose a former convent to create a space that builds unity in diversity, supports learning, and inspires thoughtful action. In 2014, Dr. Welch was recognized by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops with the Cardinal Bernardin New Leadership Award for how her work addresses poverty and injustice. Welch, a VISTA volunteer from 2003-2004, also received a Spirit of Service Award in 2006 from the Corporation for National and Community Service for advancing transformational change in urban communities. She has a PhD from the University of Delaware, MS from the University of Rochester, and BS from Roberts Wesleyan College. Dr. Welch recently co-authored a book called Partnering with Immigrant Communities, which looks at the unique collaborative research undertaken by the Aquinas community and students at the University of Pennsylvania. She came to Ignatian spirituality through the Contemplative Leaders in Action program in 2010 and currently serves as the chair of the social justice committee at Old St. Joseph’s church where she worships.