The Reverend Elyse Nelson Winger serves as University Chaplain. Reporting to the Office of the President, Elyse leads a team of chaplains, advisors, educators, and staff who support the religious, spiritual, ethical, and philosophical life of the university community.
Working across Tufts' campuses, Elyse advances initiatives that foster belonging, spiritual care, interfaith engagement, ethical reflection, and community-building.
Areas of Leadership
Elyse provides leadership for:
Spiritual care and support
Religious and philosophical life across the university
Interfaith engagement initiatives
Campus partnerships and community-building
Educational programming and dialogue
Signature university events and observances
Building Community Across Difference
One of Elyse's priorities has been expanding opportunities for interfaith engagement and leadership at Tufts. In 2021, she launched the Interfaith Ambassadors program, which brings undergraduate students together to foster dialogue, understanding, and action across religious, spiritual, and philosophical differences.
Certificate of Studies, The Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago
B.A. Wellesley College
Professional Background
Before joining Tufts in 2020, Elyse served as Associate Dean of Students and Chaplain at Illinois Wesleyan University. An ordained minister in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), she has also served congregations in Cairo, Egypt; Dearborn, Michigan; and Bloomington, Illinois.
Confidential Support
As University Chaplain, Elyse serves as a confidential resource for members of the Tufts community seeking spiritual care, guidance, or support.
