Maurice Charles

The Dean of Rockefeller Memorial Chapel supports religious and spiritual life in the University. An alumnus of the University of Chicago Divinity School (MDiv, PhD), Maurice returned in 2019 to serve as the seventh dean, having previously served as Associate Dean for Religious Life at Stanford University and Dean for Spiritual Engagement at Hobart and William Smith Colleges. He leads a staff that manages the Spiritual Life office on the lower level of Ida Noyes Hall, Bond Chapel in the main quadrangle attached by cloister to the Divinity School, and Rockefeller Chapel, the largest performance venue and ceremonial center of the campus. The team offers an array of interfaith engagement and religious literacy activities, and curates and produces musical performances. They also partner with departments across the University who hold events in the University chapels.

With over 25 years of experience as an Episcopal priest and a BA cum laude in Psychology from Case Western Reserve University, Maurice and his Spiritual Life team are available to persons of all religions and philosophies of life who are wrestling with questions of vocation, meaning, and moving through life transitions. He works closely with his colleagues in Student Wellness and UChicago HELP. His team convenes members of the community at key moments inviting mutual reflection and support.  

An enthusiastic tenor and avid lover of music, Maurice delights in being surrounded by students who study choral, organ, and carillon performance with talented chapel musicians.