Silver Spring, MD - In Memoriam: Dr. Larry D. Shinn (1942-2025)

Scholar, Educator, Leader, and Beloved Family Man

Dr. Larry D. Shinn, a transformative higher education leader and respected scholar of religion, passed away on April 2, 2025, at the age of 83. A man of deep compassion, wisdom, and vision, he leaves behind a legacy of intellectual excellence, inclusive leadership, and devoted service to others.

Born in Alliance, Ohio, Dr. Shinn earned degrees from Baldwin-Wallace College, Drew University, and Princeton University, focusing his academic work on Eastern religions. His scholarship on Hinduism and new religious movements garnered national recognition.

Dr. Shinn's academic career spanned decades, beginning with fourteen years at Oberlin College, where he was named the William H. Danforth Professor of Religion. He later served as Dean and Vice President at Bucknell University before becoming the eighth president of Berea College in 1994.

During his 18-year tenure at Berea, Dr. Shinn led the college through significant growth and change, championing student-centered learning, sustainability, and strategic planning. His leadership helped expand global learning, develop the Ecovillage, and maintain Berea's tuition-free model through challenging times. He continued to consult and write on higher education after retirement.

Larry's greatest joy was his family. He met his beloved wife Nancy in high school, and together they shared 69 years. He is survived by daughters Christie (Peter) and Robyn, five grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. A man of wide-ranging interests and generous spirit, he was cherished by all who knew him.

A Celebration of Life will be held on June 7 at Union Church in Berea, Kentucky. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a scholarship fund in his name supporting study abroad. Details may be found at murial.life/larryshinn.

Dr. Larry D. Shinn lived a life of enduring impact—a legacy of thought, action, love, and leadership. May his memory be both a blessing and a beacon.