Former Chaplain Honored, Scholarship Established in His Name by Past Students
From 1986 to 1996, Christopher Thomforde was an imposing presence at Susquehanna University.
At six foot nine inches, the former college basketball player — who once graced the cover of Sports Illustrated magazine — stood above everyone on campus. But as students and faculty members came to know the university’s chaplain, they experienced a man of great humility with an infectious sense of humor and an exceptionally thoughtful interest in the student experience.
“If you’re lucky in this life, you might encounter someone whose kindness and wisdom shape your world in ways you never imagined,” said Danielle “Dani” Beam ’98, a former student deacon.
As chaplain, Thomforde led weekly chapel services and made time for annual spiritual retreats, bible studies and volunteer services. He created three student deacon roles in the chaplain’s office to give students leadership opportunities and, on more than one occasion, he supported student-led excursions to engage in weeklong volunteer activities during university breaks.
Thomforde was a friend, mentor and spiritual companion to any member of the Susquehanna community, no matter their religious preferences or practices. He deeply valued student curiosity and their questions about religion and faith. Former students still think of him fondly as an introspective thinker with a sharp wit, full of empathy, warmth and kindness.
“If you’re lucky in this life, you might encounter someone whose kindness and wisdom shape your world in ways you never imagined.”
Danielle “Dani” Beam ’98
In spring of 2024, several of Thomforde’s student deacons — many of them now religious leaders in their own communities — returned to campus for a reunion with their former chaplain. With nearly 30 in attendance, they surprised him with the news they had created a scholarship in his honor.
“We have infinite gratitude for the many ways the Rev. Thomforde touched and shaped our lives and the lives of many others,” they said. “We are proud to honor him with gifts to a scholarship in his name.”
The scholarship will be awarded to students active in spiritual life, public service or social justice pursuits.
“Throughout his tenure at Susquehanna, the Rev. Dr. Thomforde made an indelible mark on the student body,” said President Jonathan Green. “He inspired many to pursue religious vocations or lives dedicated to public service. We are grateful to his former students for honoring him with a scholarship in his name, and we are proud that his legacy will persist for generations to come.”
If you would like to contribute to the Rev. Dr. Christopher Thomforde Endowed Scholarship, please contact Chris Markle, senior advancement officer, by email at marklec@susqu.edu or by phone at 570-372-4155.
