Campus Ministry

Tala Ali

Muslim Chaplain, Dorothy Day Center for Faith and Justice

While at the CFJ as a student, Tala came to value and advocate for the need for an inclusive, safe space in which individuals could go to seek information, a sense of belonging, and the freedom to question and experiment on their personal, spiritual journeys. During her last year at Xavier, she and friends began to discuss such needs, resulting in the founding of Salaam Community. This Islamic-based non-profit organization, where Tala is a Founding Board Member, engages seekers in safe space for spiritual and social enrichment. An active member of the Clifton Mosque, Tala has facilitated monthly "Your Muslim Neighbors 101" workshops at the Clifton Cultural Arts Center and has volunteered as Dialogue Facilitator for the Intercommunity Justice and Peace Center. Formerly a Board member of CAIR-OH, Tala volunteers with Election Protection to ensure that citizens of diverse backgrounds have an equal opportunity to participate in the political process.

Tala is delighted to serve as the Muslim Chaplain on campus, bringing her wisdom and experience from creating spaces in the Cincinnati community to enhance not the just experience of Muslim students on campus, but of all students who are learning to navigate their spiritual journeys in an increasingly diverse society.

Expertise

Graduate of Mu'allif Mentorship Program, Ta'leef Collective, Fremont, CA; advanced fluency in Arabic, conversational in French

First Year at Xavier

2016

Degrees

  • B.A. in Post-colonial International Studies and Political Science, Xavier University