Session 9
Selflessness as a Transformative Virtue
Nathan Hollis II, Assistant Professor, College of Education, Grand Canyon University
In this session, Nathan Hollis II, an assistant professor at Grand Canyon University, explores the concept of selflessness as a powerful virtue that can enhance our connections with others and help us overcome challenges. Drawing from his extensive background in education and ethics, Hollis emphasizes the importance of compassion, integrity, and selflessness in both personal and professional realms. Participants are encouraged to reflect on the role of selflessness in their lives and consider practical strategies to embody empathy, humility, and service. Through storytelling, scriptural references, and shared activities, the session highlights the significance of the fruit of the Spirit as described in Galatians 5 and the timeless lessons from the parable of the Good Samaritan. Viewers will learn how to build rapport with students and communities, engage in meaningful discussions, and implement service-learning projects, ultimately fostering a more compassionate and connected environment.
Nathan Hollis II has served in a variety of capacities across private, public, and non-profit settings for over 25 years. He has been a classroom teacher (grades 1-4), mentor teacher, curriculum designer, and administrator in higher education. Currently, Nathan is an Assistant Professor in the College of Education at Grand Canyon University (GCU) in Phoenix, Arizona.
In addition to his professional roles, Nathan has diverse service experiences in the field. He has actively participated on and led several, state executive boards including the American Lung Association of Arizona (ALAA), the Arizona School Association (ASA) Higher Education Division, and The Education Coalition. Additionally, Nathan has mentored novice teachers as a member of Profound Gentlemen, which is a national organization focused on retaining and nurturing male educators of color. Also, he has provided presentations at several national, state, and local conferences on a broad range of topics.
Nathan has a bachelor’s degree in elementary education, a master’s in early childhood education, and a master’s in business administration. He is state certified as an elementary public educator and endorsed in early childhood education. Nathan is currently pursuing a PhD in psychology with an emphasis cognition and instruction from Grand Canyon University. His dissertation topic explores how African American fathers describe their influence on their sons in post-secondary education.