I am a teacher and scholar trained in Catholic theological ethics. My research focuses on the intersection of sexuality and social justice. I identify as both a Catholic Christian and as a feminist, and these two worldviews shape my vision of what justice means in our complex world.
Education. I grew up in Mobile, Alabama, and graduated from McGill-Toolen Catholic High School in 1996. From there I pursued a Bachelor of Arts at the University of Notre Dame.
I graduated from Notre Dame in 2000, majoring in the Program of Liberal Studies and minoring in Theology. This course of study prepared me well for graduate studies.
In 2002 I earned a Master of Theological Studies degree from Weston Jesuit School of Theology (now the Boston College School of Theology and Ministry).
I gained pastoral experience by working in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles Ministry with Lesbian and Gay Catholics, under the supervision of Reverend Peter J. Liuzzi, O.Carm., and Marge Mayer.
I then went on to pursue a doctoral degree in the Department of Theology at Loyola University Chicago. I studied with Patricia Beattie Jung, Susan A. Ross, Aana Marie Vigen, Jon Nilson, Michael Schuck, and William French. I earned a Ph.D. in Christian Ethics in 2008, after defending my dissertation with distinction.
Academic Positions. I began teaching undergraduate courses at Loyola University Chicago and DePaul University in 2006, as I was writing my dissertation.
In 2008, I moved to San Diego where I am an Assistant Professor in the Department of Theology and Religious Studies at the University of San Diego. I am also an affiliated faculty member in the Women and Gender Studies Program.
In addition to my teaching, I am an active participant in programs sponsored by University Ministry, the Women’s Center, the Center for Catholic Thought and Culture, and the Changemaker Hub. I also serve on the Board of Directors for the Society of Christian Ethics.
- Link to my USD Faculty Page
- Department phone is (619) 260-4525
- Email is erb@sandiego.edu