Neal Keesee joined NCSSM in July 2023 as Instructor of American Studies and Humanities on our Morganton campus. He teaches American Studies and senior humanities courses on topics that include western thought and WWI. Neal came to us from the Christchurch School in Virginia where he served in various administrative roles, including as associate head of school and academic dean, and taught interdisciplinary humanities courses. He earned a PhD in theology from the University of Chicago and has expertise in philosophy, history of ideas, and pedagogy. His skills in woodworking and interest in teaching these skills to students exemplify his desire to bridge the gap between working with one’s hands and the life of the mind.