Brian Fikkert and Kelly M. Kapic

Brian Fikkert is a renowned economist, author, and expert in the field of poverty alleviation and international development. He is the co-founder and president of The Chalmers Center, a research and training organization that focuses on empowering local communities through sustainable economic development and relational transformation. Brian is also a professor of economics at Covenant College, where his teaching and research intersect with his deep commitment to addressing global poverty through holistic, gospel-centered solutions.

Brian is widely recognized for his work on the theology of poverty and development. His influential book, When Helping Hurts: How to Alleviate Poverty Without Hurting the Poor...and Yourself, co-authored with Steve Corbett, challenges common approaches to charity and international development. The book emphasizes the importance of addressing both material and relational poverty and advocates for a shift in mindset from "aid" to "asset-based" community development. His work has been pivotal in reshaping the way churches, organizations, and individuals approach poverty alleviation with a focus on dignity, empowerment, and sustainable solutions.

Kelly M. Kapic is a theologian, author, and professor known for his work in Christian spirituality, theology of suffering, and the integration of faith and daily life. He is a professor of theological studies at Covenant College and has written extensively on topics related to the Christian life, including the nature of suffering, human flourishing, and the concept of grace. Kelly’s approach to theology is deeply pastoral and practical, aiming to help Christians live out their faith in a way that connects with both personal growth and broader societal transformation.

Kelly’s books, such as A Little Book for New Theologians and Embodied Hope: A Theological Meditation on Pain and Suffering, have been influential in guiding both scholars and laypeople to reflect on theological themes with humility and hope. His work emphasizes the importance of theological reflection in the midst of suffering and encourages Christians to embrace a theology that is deeply connected to their everyday lives and challenges.

Together, Brian Fikkert and Kelly M. Kapic have made significant contributions to the intersection of theology, poverty, and human flourishing, inspiring many to think critically about how to engage with issues of poverty and suffering with compassion, dignity, and theological depth.