Luke Higgins
Savannah,GA
Summary
A compassionate and resourceful academic professional with over 15 years of experience supporting undergraduate students in higher education. Skilled in developmental advising, academic coaching, and student success strategies. Proven track record in guiding students through course selection, degree planning, and academic challenges to promote persistence and retention. Experienced with institutional software platforms including D2L Brightspace and academic tracking systems. Committed to fostering inclusive, student-centered advising practices that support diverse learners in achieving academic and career goals.
Overview
25
25
years of professional experience
Work History
Classroom Guide (Teacher)
Aspire Savannah, Montessori-based School
01.2024 - 05.2025
- Facilitated student-centered learning in social studies and history for ages 9–12 using discussion-based pedagogy.
- Led daily community-building activities and integrated social-emotional learning into curriculum.
- Adapted educational approaches to meet individual student needs and support overall development.
Adjunct Professor of Religion and Philosophy
University of South Carolina, Beaufort
08.2024 - Current
- Provided developmental academic advising in hybrid and online courses, supporting students' academic planning and personal growth.
- Advised students on time management, study strategies, and comprehension of nuanced ideas.
- Interpreted course requirements and academic policies; connected students with institutional support resources.
- Utilized university systems to monitor student progress and maintain accurate records.
Assistant Professor (Limited Term) and Adjunct Professor, Department of Philosophy & Religion
Armstrong State Univ. & Georgia Southern State Univ.
08.2015 - 06.2024
- Taught core curriculum courses including Introduction to Philosophy and Religious Studies.
- Provided one-on-one academic coaching, focusing on writing development, time management, and persistence.
- Maintained student records and reported academic progress through institutional software.
Professor of Critical Thinking
Savannah State University
08.2021 - 05.2023
- Delivered instruction in critical thinking and rhetoric to large cohorts in both in-person and online formats.
- Provided holistic academic support, including assistance with study techniques and academic planning.
- Monitored student engagement and outcomes; collaborated with university services to support retention.
Interim Director of Religious Education
Unitarian Universalist Church of Savannah, GA
09.2015 - 12.2015
- Directed multi-age educational programming and advised youth in personal and spiritual development.
- Designed and facilitated workshops and events; mentored volunteers and families.
Adjunct Professor
South University, Savannah Campus
01.2014 - 12.2014
- Taught Philosophy and Biblical Interpretation courses.
- Supported students academically through individualized feedback and study planning.
Adjunct Professor
State University of New York, Rockland
01.2009 - 01.2014
- Taught online and in-person courses in Philosophy and Ethics.
- Counseled students on academic and personal challenges affecting performance.
Director of Christian Education
Community Church of Cedar Grove, NJ
01.2005 - 01.2010
- Served as Administrative Director for Church School (grades 1-8) and all family programming.
- Led youth education and family programming; advised students during transitional years.
- Developed curricula and facilitated year-round programming for youth and families.
Reading Instructor
Institute for Reading Development
06.2004 - 06.2006
- Taught intensive summer reading classes for children & youth ages K-12 and adults.
- Trained in specialized IRD method for reading comprehension.
Campus Ministry Intern
Cal Aggie Christian Association, UC Davis
01.2000 - 01.2002
- Provided academic and spiritual mentoring to college students.
- Supervised a community mentoring program serving underserved youth.
Education
Ph.D. - Theological and Philosophical Studies
Drew University
Madison, NJ01.2013
M.Phil. - Theological and Philosophical Studies
Drew University
Madison, NJ01.2009
M.Div. -
Pacific School of Religion
Berkeley, CA05.2002
B.A. (cum laude) - Philosophy
University of California
01.1997
Skills
- D2L Brightspace
- Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook)
- Academic data management and reporting tools
- Familiarity with advising platforms such as Banner
Awards
- Helen LePage and William Hale Chamberlain Prize for Best Dissertation, Drew University, 01/01/13
- President Merit Scholarship, Drew University, 01/01/03 - 12/31/13
Community And Volunteer Service
- Children’s Storyteller, Religious Education assistant, Semi-Annual Preacher, and Leader of Coming of Age program for 14-18 yr olds, Unitarian Universalist Church of Savannah, 2023-2024 school year
- Guest Panelist, Ecological Civilization and the Gift of Faith Communities, Unitarian Universalist Church of Savannah
- Guest Lecturer, Words and Silence: The Spiritual Literature of Thomas Merton, Christ Church Adult Education Forum, Savannah, 01/01/15
Timeline
Adjunct Professor of Religion and Philosophy
University of South Carolina, Beaufort
08.2024 - Current
Classroom Guide (Teacher)
Aspire Savannah, Montessori-based School
01.2024 - 05.2025
Professor of Critical Thinking
Savannah State University
08.2021 - 05.2023
Interim Director of Religious Education
Unitarian Universalist Church of Savannah, GA
09.2015 - 12.2015
Assistant Professor (Limited Term) and Adjunct Professor, Department of Philosophy & Religion
Armstrong State Univ. & Georgia Southern State Univ.
08.2015 - 06.2024
Adjunct Professor
South University, Savannah Campus
01.2014 - 12.2014
Adjunct Professor
State University of New York, Rockland
01.2009 - 01.2014
Director of Christian Education
Community Church of Cedar Grove, NJ
01.2005 - 01.2010
Reading Instructor
Institute for Reading Development
06.2004 - 06.2006
Campus Ministry Intern
Cal Aggie Christian Association, UC Davis
01.2000 - 01.2002
M.Phil. - Theological and Philosophical Studies
Drew University
B.A. (cum laude) - Philosophy
University of California
Ph.D. - Theological and Philosophical Studies
Drew University
M.Div. -
Pacific School of Religion
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