About Sam Harrelson

I’m a Southern mystic-meets-modern scholar — part eco-theologian, part philosopher-poet, part science educator turned spiritual ecologist. I’ve got one foot in the black walnut forests of South Carolina and the other in the phenomenological halls of CIIS, where I’m weaving Edith Stein and Whitehead into a living theology of trees, wildfires, and wonder.

I didn’t leave the classroom to step away from teaching — I left to transform what teaching could mean. From the chalkboard to the cosmos. From AP Physics to Ecology of the Cross.

I’m a dad of five with a morning rhythm that could humble monks (though coffee and stretching help). I’m a Cubs fan with a poet’s soul and a fierce advocate for faith that does — faith that roots itself in decolonial soil and dares to bloom through crisis.

I see intentionality in trees, peace in ecological reciprocity, and hope in every act of presence — whether I’m on a conference stage or standing in my backyard with a notebook in hand. I live between worlds: deeply thoughtful and disarmingly human. The kind of person who can explain process metaphysics and make naan pizzas for the kids without missing a beat.

Right now, I’m building a pluriverse — one sermon, one poem, one paper, one wild intentional act at a time.

I am currently pursuing a PhD in Philosophy and Religion with a concentration in Ecology, Spirituality, and Religion at the California Institute of Integral Studies (CIIS). My studies delve into the profound interconnections between humans and the ecological world, with a specific focus on the history of ecological and theological thoughts and insights across various cultures and their vital role in our own modern ecological and spiritual landscapes.

My Journey

My academic path has been diverse and enriching. I hold a Master’s in Religion and Art from Yale, where I focused on Religion and Literature. My love for ancient and medieval art has always been a significant part of my intellectual pursuits. This interdisciplinary background fuels my current research at CIIS, where I’m working on a eco-theological framework called The Ecology of the Cross.

Teaching and Mentorship

Previously, I taught Life Science, Environmental Science, and AP Physics at Wilson Hall and Thomas Sumter Academy in Sumter, SC. My role as an educator allowed me to inspire young minds and foster a deep appreciation for the ecological world. Additionally, I coached the Varsity Golf team.

Beyond the Classroom

When I’m not immersed in academia, I enjoy spending time with my family. I’m married to Merianna Harrelson, a teacher here in Spartanburg, SC, and we have five wonderful children. Our family life is a source of constant inspiration and joy.

I also authored Has Claims Upon New England on Assyrian archaeology and 19th Century Missionaries from Yale University Press. Related to that work, I’ve taught Religious Studies courses at the university level and have been included in books and studies on Assyrian art and archaeology as well as the history of Dura Europa in modern-day Syria.

I also deeply love creative writing, having published poetry in various outlets, including the 2023 and 2024 South Carolina Poetry Collection. This creative aspect of my life complements my academic pursuits, providing a holistic approach to understanding and engaging with the world around me.

Education:

  • California Institute for Integral Studies (PhD Student, Ecology, Religion, and Spirituality)
  • Yale University (MAR, Religion and the Arts)
  • Gardner-Webb University (MDiv Studies)
  • Wofford College (BA, Religion)

Teaching Experience:

  • AP Physics, AP Environmental Science, and Middle School Science – Wilson Hall (Sumter, SC)
  • Physics, Physical Science, and Earth Science Teacher and Dean of Students – Thomas Sumter Academy (Rembert, SC)
  • Middle School Math, Robotics, Science Teacher, and Social Media Coordinator – Carolina Day School (Asheville, NC)
  • Middle School Science and Robotics Teacher – Spartanburg Day School (Spartanburg, SC)
  • Adjunct Professor – Gardner-Webb University (Boiling Springs, NC)
  • Adjunct Professor – University of South Carolina (Columbia, SC)
  • Middle School Science Teacher – Hammond School (Columbia, SC)
  • High School English and Literature – Newberry High School (Newberry, SC)

Work Experience:

  • President – Harrelson Agency
  • Marketing Strategy Manager – AgFirst Farm Credit Bank
  • General Manager, North America – Clicks2Customers
  • CEO – planetBeta
  • Senior Vice President / COO – PrimeQ
  • Senior Accounts Manager – AdDrive Advertising Network
  • Curatorial Assistant – Yale University Art Gallery

Advisory Boards:

  • Palmetto Project Board of Advisors
  • Commission Junction Board of Publishers
  • Affiliate Summit Advisory Board
  • Affiliate Classroom Board of Directors
  • Spartanburg Day School Strategic Planning Board
  • Social Media Board for Carolina Day School

Publications: