Alyssa graduated from the University of Dayton with a Master’s in Theological Studies. During her graduate work she loved thinking and writing about theology in the context of her native Appalachia, particularly focusing on the history and impact of the pastoral letter This Land Is Home to Me as Appalachian liberation theology. At present Alyssa is filled with gratitude for a few years of stay-at-home parenting (including a one-year adventure in homeschooling) and is excited to begin a new full-time ministry among children, youth and families at an urban Episcopal church.