Daniel Edwards, a sixth-year doctoral student in the Department of Theology at Marquette University and first-generation college graduate, has been named one of eight recipients of the Arthur J. Schmitt Leadership Fellowship, a prestigious award recognizing graduate students for both academic excellence and leadership potential. Edwards, who is pursuing a Ph.D. in Religious Studies, has been conducting research on a fourth-century Christian writer known as (Pseudo-)Macarius, focusing particularly on the Holy Spirit and its role in spiritual experience. The fellowship has provided him with time and resources to complete his dissertation while also developing leadership skills across disciplines.
“My research focuses on an enigmatic writer of the fourth century CE that we tend to call (Pseudo-)Macarius,” Edwards explained. “I examine his thinking on a key part of early Christian teaching, namely, the Holy Spirit.” While many early Christian writers debated theological definitions, Macarius took a different approach. “Instead of debating about who or what the Holy Spirit is,” Edwards said, “his main focus is on the Spirit’s role in spiritual experience and how a person makes progress in his or her spiritual journey to God.”
Edwards’s dissertation highlights how Macarius understood the human person, the Church’s liturgy, and the Trinity through the lens of spiritual experience, expanding discussions of early Christian theology beyond purely doctrinal debates. “Within my field, I hope to make this writer, who is frequently overlooked and understudied, better known,” he said. “Outside of my field, I hope that my work will help those interested in spirituality have access to another spiritual master to engage and wrestle with.”
Mentorship has been a central part of Edwards’s academic journey. His supervisor, Dr. Marcus Plested, author of The Macarian Legacy, has guided him throughout his research. “He has been a supportive guide who has helped shape me as a scholar and thinker,” Edwards said.
The Arthur J. Schmitt Leadership Fellowship has allowed Edwards to focus on finishing his dissertation by relieving him from teaching responsibilities. “By giving me this time and mental space, I’ve been able to dedicate myself fully to completing my research this year,” he said. “At the same time, through collaboration with the other fellows, I’m learning how to lead in interdisciplinary contexts and among other leaders, an experience I expect will be invaluable as I move into my career.”
Edwards encourages other graduate students to consider the fellowship, particularly those interested in leadership and interdisciplinary collaboration. “Make sure to demonstrate that you are a well-rounded scholar, someone who can do great academic work and also lead in accordance with your values,” he advised.
Edwards’s path to Marquette was guided by the university’s strong academic reputation and welcoming environment. “Initially, I was drawn to Marquette because of the accomplished faculty here, in my department and others,” he said. Despite starting his program during 2020, he quickly came to appreciate the campus and community. “I’ve come to love the campus, the art museum, and St. Joan of Arc Chapel. I’ve also been immensely grateful for the collegiality of those in my department.”
Outside of his research, Edwards enjoys walking, particularly at the Schlitz Audubon Nature Center, reading, playing board games, and spending time with his family.
With the support of the Schmitt Fellowship and guidance from his mentors, Edwards is completing his dissertation and preparing to share his research on Macarius with both academic and spiritual communities. Edwards hopes to provide new insights into the enduring role of the Holy Spirit in Christian thought.
