Dr. Mike Ripski is a retired ordained minister in the United Methodist Church. He served congregations in West and Middle Tennessee for 40 years. He then became a faculty member and University Chaplain at Cumberland University. During his career, Dr. Ripski has taught classes in philosophy, Bible, English, and religion. He previously was an adjunct instructor at the University of Tennessee, Martin.

In addition to serving as Cumberland University Chaplain, Mike teaches classes in the First Year Experience (FSL) and the Bible as Literature. Dr. Ripski is responsible for administering the Compassion Fund that provides food and other necessities for individuals in need in the Cumberland community.

Dr. Ripski coordinates Chapel Chats for the University community which are required by first-year students as part of the FSL course. During these Chats, students, faculty, and staff are invited to address the theme: “Everyone has a story. This is mine.” Chapel Chats may also address controversial issues with goal to model “civil discourse.”

Dr. Ripski wrote the Foundations and Learning curriculum that, while undergoing several mutations in recent years, still provides guidance for students as they begin their college journey.