Rev. Dawn Bennett is a dynamic preacher, pastor and public faith leader.

She is a clinically trained trauma chaplain and public theologian working at the intersections of faith, trauma, healing and the greater threats to communities from the power abuses of organized religion. ​She is a compassionate leader with over 20 years of experience in spiritual development, community engagement, and interfaith dialogue. Dawn’s approach to spirituality is trauma-informed, centering the safety and lived experiences of individuals and groups who have been harmed by faulty theological worldviews and improper applications of [primarily] biblical teachings.

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What makes Dawn a dynamic speaker? She is known throughout the Deep South and Bible Belt as a catalyst for awakening, awareness, and empowering education.

Her expertise comes from years of theological education and study, facilitation and sharing of her knowledge and experience on the topics of Emotional Intelligence, Impact of Bias, Trauma and related issues and Diversity. Her preaching has an engaging, practical and affirming  style which has left a national footprint over the years.​ At the core of Dawn’s work is her commitment to the lived experiences of vulnerable populations. She is the author of two books Loving Pearl (c) 2015 currently out of print for updates, and the newly released A Seat at The Table: Stories of Faith, Healing, and Rebrith (c) 2026

This lens is what makes Dawn a powerful and positive agent for change.

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Dawn's education background:

Doctorate of Ministry (DMin) United Lutheran Seminary, * in process

Master of Divinity (MDiv), Vanderbilt Divinity School

Master of Arts (MA), Luther Seminary

Fellow; Cal Turner Moral Leadership in the Professions, Vanderbilt Divinity School

Certificate; Religion, Gender & Sexuality, Vanderbilt Divinity School

Certificate; Religious Trauma, Global Center for Religious Research

Bachelor of Science, Psychology, Liberty University

Associate of Arts, Business Administration, WIU

Rule 31 TN Family/Civil Mediator; Spiritual & Life Coach; published Author

Chaplain Residency completed Vanderbilt University Medical Center and Erlanger Hospital

Ordained to the Ministry of Word & Sacrament in the ELCA Lutheran Church

and serve in the Southeastern Synod​

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For more information about her, drop Dawn’s name in an internet search. and explore.

There is no shortage of true, speculative, sensational, tender and empowering examples of her ministry and commitment to spiritual health and wellness for all people.