Islamic Chaplaincy Alum Joins Trinity College as Director of Muslim Life

Osman Simsek '24, MA in Islamic Chaplaincy alum, was recently hired as the Director of Muslim Life at Trinity College in Hartford. 

His journey towards becoming a Muslim chaplain began with the unsettling images of doctors and nurses fighting on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic. Moved by their determination to help others despite facing death, Osman asked himself how he could contribute to society. 

As a devout Muslim, he reflected on a teaching by the Prophet Muhammad: "All creatures are [like] a family of God: and He loves most those who are kindest to His family." He had extensive education in the Islamic tradition but wanted to adapt it to American pluralism. When he became aware of the field of chaplaincy, which provides spiritual care in secular settings, he decided it was the right path. He now blends his traditional Islamic knowledge with a modern understanding of spiritual care.

Osman enrolled at Hartford International University and experienced an in-depth interreligious education. One of the key influences was a class taught by Dr. Timur Yuskaev on interfaith and civic engagement. Osman was introduced to the concept of "organic interfaith," which emphasizes natural, spontaneous interactions between people of different faiths, fostering genuine human connections. "It's beyond religion," Osman said, explaining that human relationships should transcend religious doctrines. "Our most important common value is being human."

“I had the privilege of benefiting from very valuable educators, especially Dr. Bilal Ansari, Dr. Lucinda Mosher, Dr. Janet Fuller, Dr. Hooman Keshavarzi, Dr. Timur Yuskaev, and Aida Mansoor. Dr. Bilal, who was my advisor, taught me in three different courses, and I gained significant insights into Islamic Chaplaincy from him. Dr. Mosher's courses, especially her doctoral thesis, The Marrow of Worship and the Moral Vision: Ethical Dimensions of Anglican and Islamic Classical Supplication Literature, truly expanded my horizons,” Osman said. 

“Dr. Janet Fuller not only enriched my learning through her excellent courses and the distinguished guest speakers she invited, but she also continued to provide guidance after my graduation. Additionally, Aida Mansoor's Field Education courses offered invaluable hands-on experience in chaplaincy, allowing me to grow both professionally and personally. Throughout the Master's Program, I also formed meaningful friendships and learned a great deal from my classmates.”

His time at the university was transformative. Osman remembers fondly how it felt like a close-knit family. One profound memory was reading Dr. Lucinda Mosher's dissertation, which explored death prayers in both Christian and Muslim traditions. This unexpected connection moved him deeply, further reinforcing the university's inclusive and pluralistic environment.

After completing Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) courses, he applied to get board certified. For this, Osman had to write essays that demonstrated his understanding of the 29 core competencies required for professional chaplaincy. His application was accepted. Osman said that the certifying organization members admired how beautifully he reflected on each competency; they asked how he did it. "It's because of Hartford International University," Osman answered, grateful for how well-prepared he felt.

As a Muslim chaplain, Osman works under the principle of what he calls a “Virtuous Companion,” inspired by the Qur’an and Hadith teachings. For Osman, A “Virtuous Companion” is one who emphasizes empathy, ethical conduct, and unwavering support in his spiritual guidance, drawing from Islamic traditions to foster meaningful connections in diverse environments. 

“If the Almighty permits, I intend to present this "Virtuous Companion" model as a significant contribution to Islamic Chaplaincy,” Osman said.

“Additionally, during my training, while providing service in various settings such as prisons, nursing homes, universities, psychiatric centers, and hospitals, I witnessed the vastness of the insights in the works of the renowned Islamic scholar B. Said Nursi. I saw how all that he wrote regarding these fields is a great asset for chaplains and spiritual care. Insha’Allah, I also intend to study his works from the perspective of Chaplaincy.”

As the Muslim chaplain at Trinity College, Osman continues to bridge divides. He plans to host a Thanksgiving dinner, a holiday not traditionally celebrated by Muslims, inviting diverse groups to sit together and share a meal. His goal is to foster understanding through shared experiences, believing that differences are a form of richness. "When you know each other," he says, "you will see we have many shared values." For Osman, even the simplest interactions, like sharing a meal or exchanging greetings, are opportunities for interfaith connection.

Congratulations, Osman!