Bio
James Croft is a writer, speaker, and Humanist chaplain exploring meaning, morality, wonder, community, and the art of being human. In all his work he seeks forms of secular life that are intellectually serious, emotionally alive, and open to awe.
In 2023 James was appointed University Chaplain and Lead Faith Advisor at the University of Sussex, becoming the first Humanist Lead Chaplain at a UK university. In this role he works with students and staff from many different religious and non-religious backgrounds, helping to foster belonging, growth, and a sense meaning in life.
Before moving to Sussex, James served as Senior Leader of the Ethical Society of St. Louis, one of the largest Humanist congregations in the world. There he crafted communal experiences to help people examine their deepest values and better live into them.
James studied at the Harvard Graduate School of Education and at Homerton College, Cambridge - he focused on the role of the arts in education and learning. His doctoral dissertation, “Free Thinking”, explored the meaning, importance, and development of intellectual autonomy.
Originally from London, James now lives in Brighton with his husband Kolten and their chihuahua Ella.
