The rising Maryville College junior is from Knoxville, TN. He spent much of his youth moving as a result of his father's call as a Presbyterian minister. Sam is spending the summer at IPC thanks to an IPC Foundation grant.

"I came to Maryville College knowing that I wanted a liberal arts education, not knowing exactly what path to pursue. In my quest to seek meaning for myself and make an impact on the world around me, I began the journey of a Religious Studies major. Since then I have deepened my understanding of religion in general and of my own religious tradition. Maryville College has given me the opportunity to work as a youth director at a local church along with many other leadership opportunities. I plan to continue my interest in philosophy and religion wihile studying abroad in Germany next semester," says Sam. "Though I am continuing to discern where my interest in religious studies may ultimately lead, all of these opportunities by Maryville College have helped to shape my journey so far and bring into focus a decision to attend Seminary after graduation."

Sam's internship is made possible through Maryville College's "Training Future Church Leaders Project." He is one of two students participating in summer internships at churches thanks to a grant from the IPC Foundation.