Joryán Hernández

Joryán Hernández (peace studies and theology) holds an M.Div. and Certificate in Latinx Studies from Vanderbilt University and a B.A. in Religion from the University of Florida. His master’s thesis explored how pastoral care could be used to alleviate the traumas of displacement and present theologies of hope in and for Latinx communities in a holistic way that acknowledges the different lived experiences of immigrants.

As a Ph.D. student, Joryán plans to build upon his Master’s work and explore how theologies of resistance can actualize radical changes to repressive conditions in authoritarian regimes. His goal is to create awareness within religious institutions of the harm endured by those they are called to serve, encourage them to better serve their community, and include them in the political process of liberating Latinx individuals from immutable governments. A Cuban immigrant himself, Joryán believes that a better future must be imagined, as José Martí said, “Con todos y para el bien de todos.”

Joryán was awarded the Joseph Gaia Distinguished Fellowship in Latino Studies.