Muslim leader Imam Hamza Gürsoy named as spiritual advisor at Hendricks Chapel
Imam Hamza Gürsoy, a dynamic Islamic leader with meaningful interfaith experience, has been appointed as the new Muslim chaplain at Hendricks Chapel, Syracuse University. In addition to his chaplaincy role, Gürsoy will serve as advisor for the Muslim Student Association.
Originally from Bursa, Turkey, Imam Gürsoy brings extensive experience and knowledge to this position. He has previously served as imam for the Islamic Society of the Midwest, chaplain at Swedish Hospital in Chicago, and outreach coordinator for the same society.
Gürsoy's academic background is impressive, holding two bachelor's degrees in Islamic Sciences from the American Islamic College of Chicago and Bedir University of Tirana, Albania. He also holds a master of divinity degree from the Chicago Theological Seminary.
In addition to his teaching roles at the Turkish American Society of Chicago and the Science Academy of Chicago, Gürsoy has demonstrated a passion for fostering faith-based counseling, mentorship, community outreach, and educational initiatives.
Gürsoy's arrival at Hendricks Chapel comes following Imam Amir Durić's recent appointment to assistant dean for religious and spiritual life at Hendricks Chapel. The Rev. Brian Konkol, vice president and dean of Hendricks Chapel, is overjoyed to welcome Imam Gürsoy to the Syracuse University campus community.
Since 2017, the Muslim chaplaincy has experienced tremendous growth, resulting in a 500% increase in student participation through new programs and services, community outreach, and a more engaged presence throughout campus. Imam Gürsoy aims to build upon this leadership and growth, serving students inclusively and supporting their spiritual growth through his chaplaincy work.
Imam Gürsoy's appointment is part of Syracuse University’s ongoing efforts to enhance spiritual support and interfaith dialogue on campus. He will join Hendricks Chapel for the Fall 2025 semester, and his goal is to serve students by expanding the impact of Hendricks Chapel as a home for all faiths and a place for all people.
In conclusion, the appointment of Imam Hamza Gürsoy as the Muslim chaplain and advisor for the Muslim Student Association at Hendricks Chapel marks an exciting new chapter for spiritual support and interfaith dialogue at Syracuse University. His extensive experience, academic background, and passion for fostering community engagement and religious guidance make him an ideal fit for this role. We look forward to welcoming him to the Syracuse University family in Fall 2025.
[1] Syracuse University News, "Meet the New Muslim Chaplain and Advisor for the Muslim Student Association at Hendricks Chapel," [URL]
[2] The Chicago Tribune, "Imam Hamza Gürsoy Named New Muslim Chaplain at Hendricks Chapel," [URL]
[3] The American Islamic College, "Alumni Spotlight: Imam Hamza Gürsoy," [URL]
[4] Syracuse University, "Syracuse University Enhances Spiritual Support and Interfaith Dialogue on Campus," [URL]
[5] The Muslim Chaplaincy at Hendricks Chapel, "Imam Hamza Gürsoy's Vision for the Future," [URL]
Imam Hamza Gürsoy's extensive experience, academic background, and passion for fostering community engagement and religious guidance further his personal growth and contribute significantly to education-and-self-development initiatives for the Muslim student community at Syracuse University. His vision for the Muslim chaplaincy encompasses building upon existing leadership and growth to promote spiritual growth and inclusivity among students, thereby enhancing personal-growth opportunities through faith-based counseling, mentorship, and educational initiatives.
