About Us
Biblical SEL, or Biblical Social Emotional Learning (SEL), is the collective effort from faith-based Christians who study and apply evidence-based SEL strategies found within scripture and theological findings. Together, as pastors, elders, teachers, students, moms, dads, sons, and daughters, we explore how Bible-driven SEL helps encourage us to live obediently and meaningfully with a Holy value and life purpose designed by our Creator. Meet the Biblical SEL team below and join our crusade to reinforce peaceful communication, healthy life choices, respectful relationships, and loving communities.
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Tara Madden-Dent, PhD,
FOUNDER
Is a researcher, author, presenter, trainer, and consultant who helps integrate evidence-based SEL into systems, policy, and practices. After finishing her Ph.D. in Educational Leadership and teaching at the University of Nevada, Reno, she served as the Director of Global Programs at Sierra Nevada University where she supported international student recruitment and orientation with culturally responsive SEAD practices. From 2017-2022, Dr. Madden-Dent served the Nevada Department of Education by designing statewide SEL professional development systems and related policy. Currently, she serves as President of Academic Freedom, an educational SEL nonprofit to integrate SEL and Biblical SEL practices across the U.S. and abroad. Several of her publications can be accessed at https://taramaddendentphd.academia.edu/research
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Natalie Snyder
SUSTAINABILITY DIRECTOR
is the Director of Sustainability at Academic Freedom, an educational non-profit assisting families, schools, and organizations build God-centered, Biblical systems to support meaningful, healthy, and joyful lives.
Our mission is to foster daily disciples who love God and practice Biblical SEL skills.
“Biblical SEL has the power to reveal our divine life-purpose and activate a lifetime pursuit to fulfill it.”
— Tara, Co-Founder & Faculty Chair, Biblical SEL Academy
