Meet our Teacher: Ken Vorndran Ph.D. Faculty Emeritus

Over the course of forty years, Ken taught writing and creative writing in three high schools, two

community colleges, and one university. He retired from Pima Community College, where he spent

the last fifteen years of his career as the honors coordinator for the college and teaching the honors

research and honors writing courses. His essays, stories, and poems have been published in

various newspapers, magazines, and literacy magazines. He received his BA from the University of

Delaware and his MA and Ph.D. from the University of Arizona.

Ken’s spiritual journey began in the Presbyterian church, where his parents were members. During

his teens and his college years, he enjoyed the study of philosophy. During his twenties, he left

organized religion. After entering recovery, he discovered the Unitarian Universalist church and was

a member for many years, attending Wesley Theological Seminary (the 3rd largest UU seminary)

with the thought of becoming an interim minister. In the course of this study, Ken realized his true

call was teaching.

Throughout this more or less traditional spiritual journey, Ken always found his

strongest spiritual home to be nature, where he has spent much time hiking, camping, and

kayaking. As his recovery progressed, the 12 Steps became his most significant spiritual path.

However, he has practiced Zen, as well as other forms of meditation, to support his spiritual growth.

An avid reader throughout his entire life, Ken has also continued to explore multiple spiritual

traditions and to enjoy learning about them.

Spirituality and the 12 Steps

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