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Summary Statement & Research Objectives

Dr. Wellington's expertise lies in the fields of conflict resolution, international relations, and theological studies.  Teaching and research interests include social identity theory, religion/spirituality, intercultural understanding, dialogue, restorative justice, pastoral care and counseling, and LGBTQ+ issues.  Wellington is the interim chair of the Upper School Social Studies Department and teaches AP Psychology at Bullis School in Potomac, MD.  He has also taught courses on Contemporary Global Issues and Holocaust and Genocide Studies.  Within the field of psychology, Wellington is most interested in clinical psychology (personality and psychotic disorders, client-centered therapy, humanistic and psychodynamic theory), social psychology, psychology of religion, gender studies, and human sexuality.    

Work Experience

September 2020present

Interim Chair, US Social Studies Department

Bullis School, Potomac, MD
  • Social Studies Teacher
    • AY 2024-25: Teaching AP Psychology 
    • AY 2023-24: Taught AP Psychology and Holocaust and Genocide Studies
    • AY 2022-23: Taught AP Psychology, Contemporary Global Issues, and Holocaust and Genocide Studies
    • AY 2021-22: Taught AP Psychology and Thematic US History
    • AY 2020-21: Taught courses on Human Geography and Contemporary Global Issues
  • Interim Chair, US Social Studies Department (2024-present)
  • Moderator, Conduct Review Board (2020-present)
  • National Honor Society Faculty Council Member (2022-2024)
  • Performed in Bullis Theater production of The Crucible (Fall 2022)
  • Oct 20-22, 2020: Co-led workshop at Bullis on Engaging Students in Civic Discourse discussing conflict resolution and dialogue skills around the 2020 election.  This workshop was referenced in a letter by the Head of School in The Washington Post on Oct 20, 2020. 

    • "Further, two of our Upper School social studies teachers, Kristin Kowalew and Robbie Wellington, are running four workshops for faculty on facilitating civil discourse and conflict resolution." - Christian Sullivan, Head of School, Oct 14, 2020
January 2020present

Adjunct Professorial Lecturer

Wesley Theological Seminary, Washington, DC
  • CM-315: Conflict Resolution
March 2019May 2020

Associate Presbyterian Chaplain

American University, Washington, DC

As a chaplain, embraces AU's commitment to inclusive, interfaith, and ecumenical work and does campus ministry with AU students who identify as Presbyterian.

January 2020May 2020

Adjunct Professorial Lecturer

School of International Service, American University, Washington, DC
  • SIS-613: Reconciliation and Justice
May 2019December 2019

Adjunct Professorial Lecturer

School of Professional & Extended Studies, American University, Washington, DC
  • SISU-130: Intercultural Understanding
Jan 2019May 2020

SIS Graduate Admissions Associate

School of International Service, American University, Washington, DC

In this temporary and seasonal position (Jan 2019-April 2019, Dec 2019-May 2020), Wellington processed applications, answered emails and the phone, and was involved with a variety of projects during a busy period in the life of the SIS Grad Admissions office.

20082017

Hospice Chaplain

Community Hospices, Washington, DC

Employee of the Month on numerous occasions

For almost a decade, Wellington provided emotional and spiritual support to the terminally ill and their loved ones.  Worked both independently and in coordination with the hospice Interdisciplinary Team (IDT) to provide wholistic care.  Took part in numerous research projects, public speaking events, did dialogue work, and did a great deal of teaching and education on hospice and end-of-life care.  Took Georgetown medical students on visits with him monthly and provided hospice teaching and education.  Was responsible for outreach and coordination efforts with local hospitals, nursing homes, educational institutions, and ecumenical/interfaith places of faith.  Also a member of several task forces and committees including the Ethics Committee and Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI).

20062008

Pastoral Intern

National Presbyterian Church, Washington, DC

Did youth ministry, teaching, missions, pastoral care and counseling, public speaking, and worship leadership.

20042008

Research / Teaching Assistant for Professor Abdul Aziz Said

American University, Washington, DC

Took part in various research and book projects doing data analysis utilizing both qualitative and quantitative methodologies.  He also assisted in crafting talking points, course planning, curriculum development, and teaching.

19982003

English Teacher

Weifang University, Shandong Province, P. R. China (中国 山东省 潍坊学院)

Taught English to Chinese college English Majors.

Education

20122020

Ph.D. Conflict Analysis and Resolution

School for Conflict Analysis and Resolution, George Mason University, Arlington, VA

Wellington wrote his dissertation on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity as Cross-Cutting Identities in the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict: the Experience of LGBTQ Israeli Human Rights Activists.  Used a qualitative methodology gathering data via interviews.  Research design was interpretive with a constructivist and phenomenological approach.

Dissertation Committee

  • Associate Professor Susan Allen, Chair | School for Conflict Analysis and Resolution | George Mason University
  • Associate Professor Mara Schoeny | School for Conflict Analysis and Resolution | George Mason University
  • Associate Professor Vicki Kirsch | College of Health and Human Services | George Mason University
  • Professor Mohammed Abu-Nimer | School of International Service | American University
20042008

M.A. International Peace and Conflict Resolution

School of International Service, American University, Washington, DC

Wellington wrote his Master's Thesis on the unique Post-Apartheid South African Experience with LGBTQ Rights looking at the relationship between racism and heterosexism drawing in part on the works of Desmond Tutu and Nelson Mandela.  While at AU, also took part in the Dialogue Development Group as a co-facilitator, co-trainer, and mentor.  Lead dialogue groups on religion and spirituality, religion and sexuality, Palestine-Israel, and China-Japan relations.

19941998

Triple Major: BS in Political Science, BA in French, BA in German | Double Minor: International Studies and English

Presbyterian College, Clinton, SC

Graduated with Honors in French

As part of his English minor, Wellington focused primarily on Arthurian Legends, American Literature, the American Renaissance (ca. 1830-1860), and the works of Emerson, Thoreau, and Whitman.  For political science major and international studies minor, research and writing focused on Northern Ireland, China, and Israel-Palestine.

Study Abroad Experience during Junior Year (1996 – 1997)

Oxford University | Oxford, England | July 1996

Goethe Institute | Prien, Germany | August 1996

Vienna University | Vienna, Austria | September 1996 – January 1997

Sorbonne | Paris, France  | January 1997 – May 1997

19911994

High School Diploma

Dunwoody High School, Dunwoody, GA

Vice President of Junior Class, member of student government, drama club, debate team, French club, Eagle Scout, active in church youth group, Sunday School, and choir

Ordination

May 24, 2009                          Ordained as a Minister of the Word and Sacrament

                                                    Presbyterian Church (USA)

                                                    Teaching Elder, National Capital Presbytery in good standing

Teaching Experience

September 2020present

Upper School Faculty

Bullis School, Potomac, MD
  • Social Studies Department
  • AY 2024-25: Teaching AP Psychology
  • AY 2023-24: Taught AP Psychology and Holocaust and Genocide Studies
  • AY 2022-23: Taught AP Psychology, Contemporary Global Issues, and Holocaust and Genocide Studies
  • AY 2021-22: Taught AP Psychology and Thematic US History
  • AY 2020-21: Taught courses on Human Geography and Contemporary Global Issues
January 2020present

Adjunct Professorial Lecturer

Wesley Theological Seminary, Washington, DC
  • CM-315: Conflict Resolution
    • This 2-credit J-Term course focuses on skill building in listening, responding, asserting self, problem solving, and dealing with conflict.  Intentionality and skill building in the resolution and management of difference and conflict resolution in various church outcomes and contexts.  Intentionality about the role of emotions in group setting.  Details about the difference between and implication of IQ and EQ (Emotional Quotient).
2009present

Teaching Elder | Preach and Lead Worship throughout Washington, DC Metro Area

National Capital Presbytery

Have preached at the following Presbyterian churches: Sixth, Arlington, Bethesda, Berwyn, Fairlington, Riverdale, Grace, Northwood, Southminster, Hope, Eastminster, Northeastern, Warner Memorial, and Northminster.

January 2020May 2020

Adjunct Professorial Lecturer

School of International Service, American University, Washington, DC
  • SIS-613: Reconciliation and Justice
    • This 3-credit course exposes students to the complex and multi-dimensional aspects of the relationship between reconciliation and justice in a post-conflict context. It also develops a deeper understanding of the challenges involved in applying and designing a reconciliation project in a development context. The course addresses the tension between the request for reconciliation, coexistence, and peace and the demand for justice.
May 2019December 2019

Adjunct Professorial Lecturer

School of Professional & Extended Studies, American University, Washington, DC
  • SISU 130: Intercultural Understanding 
    • This 3-credit course looks at the functions and elements of culture and the role culture plays in identity, values, human rights, conflict, prejudice, stereotypes, communication, and negotiation among other topics. 
    • Taught in International Accelerator Program and Washington Mentorship Program
20092020

Dialogue Facilitator, Trainer, Mentor

American University / DC Public Library, Washington, DC

Co-lead a two-day, 16-hour Dialogue Training Event for Dialogue Facilitators multiple times

Co-facilitated dialogue groups on religion and spirituality, religion and sexuality, Palestine-Israel, and China-Japan relations

Took part in dialogue facilitator training / mentoring for DC Public Library Staff | Summer 2018

Facilitated a dialogue group on the intersection of religious and sexual identities | Fall 2019

20042008

Teaching Assistant for Professor Abdul Aziz Said

School of International Service, American University, Washington, DC

Assisted with lectures, curriculum development, and grading on courses related to Peace Studies and International Affairs

19982003

Taught English in China to College Students

Weifang University, Shandong Province, P.R. China (中国 山东省 潍坊学院)

Courses taught include speaking, listening, writing, Survey of the United States, Survey of the United Kingdom, magazine and newspaper article analysis, and learning colloquial English through film

Research Experience

Ph.D. Dissertation | School for Conflict  Analysis and Resolution | George Mason University | Arlington, VA | 2012-2020

  • Sexual Orientation as a Cross-Cutting Identity in the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict

MA/MTS Thesis | Dual-Degree Program: School of International Service, American University and Wesley Theological Seminary | Washington, DC | 2004-2008

  • The Unique Post-Apartheid South African Experience with LGBTQ Rights

Research Assistant | Professor Abdul Aziz Said | School of International Service | American University | Washington, DC | 2004-2008

  • Worked on various research projects related to books, chapters, publications, talking points, lectures, and courses    

Qualitative and Quantitative Methodology Graduate Coursework | American University and George Mason University | Washington, DC and Arlington, VA | 2006,  2013, 2014

  • Qualitative Foundations - Humanities: Israeli and Palestinian LGBTQ Communities: Sexual Orientation as a Cross-Cutting Identity
  • Qualitative Analysis on Religion and Non-Violence in Tibet 
  • Quantitative Analysis and Multivariate Regression on Global Political Freedom 

BA French Honors Project | Presbyterian College | Clinton, SC | 1994

  • Macrolevel Analysis and Survey of France's Influence in the World Politically, Culturally, Historically, and Socially 

Publications

"Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity as Cross-Cutting Identities in the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict: The Experience of LGBTQ Israeli Human Rights Activists," Journal of Transdisciplinary Peace Praxis, Ninth Issue, Vol. 5, No. 1, pp. 13-35, 2/21/2023

"Dialogue at Wesley - Ready for a New Kind of Conversation?," The Wesley Journal, Volume 56, Issue 17, 2/18/2008

"The Stranger and the Outcast: A Response to the Virginia Tech Shooting," The Wesley Journal, Volume 55, Issue 26, 4/16/2007

"Debunking the 'Presbyterian' Code," The Wesley Journal, Volume 55, Issue 25, 4/8/2007

"Where Have All the Glasses Gone??," The Wesley Journal, Vol. 55, Issue 24, 3/26/2007

"Some Lessons Learned from South Africa," The Wesley Journal, Vol. 55, Issue 16, 1/22/07

"Greetings from Minnesota and Robbie's Psalm," The Wesley Journal, Vol. 55, Issue 13, 12/4/2006

"Inspiration from LA," The Wesley Journal, Vol. 55, Issue 9, 10/30/2006

"The Dialogue of Life," The Wesley Journal, Vol. 55, Issue 8, 10/23/2006

Select Academic Papers

Israeli and Palestinian LGBTQ Communities: Sexual Orientation as a Cross-Cutting Identity 5.12.2013

Applying Micro Theories of Conflict to the Israeli-Palestinian Case 12.12.2012

That You May Know One Another: The Qur’an and Terrorism 4.29.2010

A Look at Torture in the U.S. Intelligence Community 12.2.2009

Masters Thesis: “What Can the World Learn from South Africa about Gay Rights?” 4.1.2008

The Role of Interfaith Dialogue in Reconciliation 12.17.2007 *

Reconciliation Project on Libby and Len Traubman’s Israeli-Palestinian Dialogue Work 10.11.2007 *

Paper on Ethics and International Affairs 4.30.2007

Death and Dying Course Paper on Cancer 4.30.2007

Zeal for your House Will Consume Me: An Exegetical Analysis of John 2:13-22 12.12.2006

Qualitative Analysis on Religion and Non-Violence in Tibet 12.12.2006

The Nature of the Trinity, Johnson, and Homosexuality: An Exercise in Systematic Theology 12.11.2006

The Minister as Practical Ethicist – What God Expects of Us: To Be Just, Merciful, Humble, and Loving: Applying Practical Ethics to Male Homophobia and Heterosexism 12.8.2006

Muslim and Christian Cultural Conflict in Sudan 7.15.2006

Quantitative Analysis and Multivariate Regression on Global Political Freedom 6.29.2006

The Northern Ireland Conflict: The Catholic Community 5.6.2006 *

God as Warrior: An Exegetical Study of Exodus 15:3 5.4.2006

Religion and Electoral Politics 5.1.2006

A Bible Study on Male Homosexuality 4.25.2006

Kashmir Conflict Analysis 12.22.2005 *

The Armenian Genocide 4.27.2005

A Policy Recommendation to Dr. William Joseph Burns regarding Palestinian Elections 12.20.2004 *

Cenobitical Permanence and Obedience with Prayer in the Center 11.4.2004

Reflections on The Gospel of Thomas 9.16.2004

* denotes co-authorship

Sermons

"A Wise and Discerning Mind," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, 1 Kings 2:10-12, 3:3-14 and John 6:51-58, 8/18/2024

"Who Will Go for Us?," Northminster Presbyterian Church, Isaiah 6:1-8 and John 3:1-17, 5/26/2024

"Take Them Not from the World," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Acts 1:15-17, 21-26 and John 17:6-19, 5/12/2024

"The Greatest Commandment," Northminster Presbyterian Church, 1 John 4:7-21 and John 15:1-8, 4/28/2024

"Not yet complete, but Yes!," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, 1 John 3:1-7 and Luke 24:36b-48, 4/14/2024

"Let's Go Back to Egypt," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Numbers 21:4-9 and John 3:14-21, 3/10/2024

"For a Crown, Not a Cross," Northminster Presbyterian Church, Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16 and Mark 8:31-38, 2/25/2024

"Transform Us into Your Likeness," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, 2 Kings 2:1-12 and Mark 9:2-9, 2/11/2024

"Where Have All the Prophets Gone?," Northminster Presbyterian Church, Deuteronomy 18:15-20 and Mark 1:21-28, 1/28/2024

"The Callings of 2024," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, 1 Samuel 3:1-10 and John 1:43-51, 1/14/2024

"Christ's Peace During Troubled Times," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Isaiah 40:1-11 and Mark 1:1-8, 12/10/2023

"Living in Hope Eternal," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Joshua 24:1-3a, 14-25 and Matthew 25:1-13, 11/12/2023

"A Song for my Beloved," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Exodus 20:1-4, 7-9, 12-20 and Matthew 21:33-46, 10/8/2023

"For Manna and a Denarius," Northminster Presbyterian Church, Exodus 16:2-15 and Matthew 20:1-16, 9/24/2023

"The Responsibility of the Church," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Exodus 12:1-14 and Matthew 18:15-20, 9/10/2023

"Finding Yourself," Northeastern Presbyterian Church, Exodus 3:1-15 and Matthew 16:21-28, 9/3/2023

"The Meaning of Peace," Berwyn Presbyterian Church, Genesis 21:8-21 and Matthew 10:24-39, 6/25/2023

"Bridging the Gap," Berwyn Presbyterian Church, Genesis 18:1-15, 21:1-7 and Matthew 9:35-10:8, 6/18/2023

"Follow Me," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Genesis 12:1-9 and Matthew 9:9-13, 18-26, 6/11/2023

"That Same Spirit," Northminster Presbyterian Church, Acts 2:1-21 and John 7:37-39, 5/28/2023

"Living a Life Shaped by Love," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, 1 Peter 3:13-22 and John 14:15-21, 5/14/2023

"Following the Shepherd of Life," Berwyn Presbyterian Church, Ezekiel 34:17-31 and John 10:1-10, 4/30/2023

"He is Risen Indeed!," Northminster Presbyterian Church, 1 Peter 1:3-9 and John 20:19-31, 4/16/2023

"The One Whom Jesus Loved," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Jeremiah 31:1-6 and John 20:1-18, 4/9/2023

"The Kingdom of Heaven is at Hand," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Exodus 17:1-7 and John 4:5-42, 3/12/2023

"Be Good," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Deuteronomy 30:15-20 and Matthew 5:21-37, 2/12/2023

"Modern Day Heroes," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Isaiah 42:1-9 and Matthew 3:13-17, 1/8/2023

"There's Still My Joy for Christmas Day," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Isaiah 35:1-10 and Matthew 11:2-11, 12/11/2022

"Give Thanks for the New Creation," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Isaiah 65:17-25 and Luke 21:5-19, 11/13/2022

"Come and See What God Has Done," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, 2 Timothy 2:8-15 and Luke 17:11-19, 10/9/2022

"Once Was Lost," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, 1 Timothy 1:12-17 andLuke 15:1-10, 9/11/2022

"Have You Ever Been in Love?," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Isaiah 5:1-7 and Luke 12:49-56, 8/14/2022

"Our Triumphal Entry," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Isaiah 50:4-9 and Luke 19:28-40, 4/10/2022

"A Tree Planted by Water," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Jeremiah 17:5-10 and Luke 6:17-26, 2/13/2022

"When God Calls," Northminster Presbyterian Church, Jeremiah 1:4-10 and Luke 4:21-30, 1/30/2022

"Mission and Purpose in a New Year," Northminster Presbyterian Church, Nehemiah 8:1-10 and Luke 4:14-21, 1/23/2022

"Precious in My Sight," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Isaiah 43:1-7 and Luke 3:15-17, 21-22, 1/9/2022

"Repeat the Sounding Joy," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Philippians 4:4-7 and Luke 3:7-18, 12/12/2021

"The One Who is to Come," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Hebrews 10:11-25 and Mark 13:1-8, 11/14/2021

"Giving All You Have," Northeastern Presbyterian Church, Hebrews 9:24-28 and Mark 12:38-44, 11/7/2021

"A Reversal of Fortunes," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Hebrews 4:12-16 and Mark 10:17-31, 10/10/2021

"Faith of a Child," Northeastern Presbyterian Church, Job 1:1, 2:1-10 and Mark 10:2-16, 10/3/2021

"Divine Things and Human Things," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, James 3:1-12 and Mark 8:27-38, 9/12/2021

"Human Faith, Divine Work," Northeastern Presbyterian Church, James 2:1-17 and Mark 7:24-37, 9/5/2021

"A Parent's Love," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, 2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33 and John 6:35, 41-51, 8/8/2021

"The Spiritually Starving," Northeastern Presbyterian Church, 2 Samuel 11:26-12:13a and John 6:24-35, 8/1/2021

"The Turning of the Tide," Berwyn Presbyterian Church, 2 Samuel 11:1-15 and John 6:1-21, 7/25/2021

"A Shepherd's Compassion," Berwyn Presbyterian Church, 2 Samuel 7:1-14a and Mark 6:30-34, 53-56, 7/18/2021

"Dancing with the Lord," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, 2 Samuel 6:1-5, 12b-19 and Mark 6:14-29, 7/11/2021

"From Humble Beginnings," Northeastern Presbyterian Church, 2 Samuel 5:1-5, 9-10 and Mark 6:1-13, 7/4/2021

"The Significance of Relationship," Riverdale Presbyterian Church, 2 Samuel 1:1, 17-27 and Mark 5:21-43, 6/27/2021

"Giants and Storms," Berwyn Presbyterian Church, 1 Samuel 17:41-49 and Mark 4:35-41, 6/20/2021

"The Origins of Greatness," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, 1 Samuel 15:34-16:13 and Mark 4:26-34, 6/13/2021

"In the Stillness," Northeastern Presbyterian Church, 1 Samuel 8:4-11, 16-20 and Mark 3:20-35, 6/6/2021

"No Longer Servants, but Friends," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, 1 John 5:1-6 and John 15:9-17, 5/9/2021

"The Universal Hunger," Northeastern Presbyterian Church, 1 John 4:7-21 and John 15:1-8, 5/2/2021

"And Yet We Still Do Not Believe," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, 1 John 1:1-2:2 and John 20:19-31, 4/11/2021

"We've Been Waiting," Northeastern Presbyterian Church, Isaiah 25:6-9 and John 20:1-18, 4/4/2021

"Darkness to Light," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Ephesians 2:1-10 and John 3:14-21, 3/14/2021

"The Transformative Power of Lent," Northeastern Presbyterian Church, 1 Corinthians 1:18-25 and John 2:13-22, 3/7/2021

"The Darkness Did Not Comprehend," Northeastern Presbyterian Church, Isaiah 40:21-31 and Mark 1:29-39, 2/7/2021

"Baptized with the Holy Spirit," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Acts 19:1-7 and Mark 1:4-11, 1/10/2021

"A New Year of Remarkable Reversals," Northeastern Presbyterian Church, Jeremiah 31:7-14 and John 1:1-18, 1/3/2021

"The Gift of Joy at Christmas Time," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11 and John 1:6-8, 19-28, 12/13/2020

"Preparing for the Peace of the Lord," Northeastern Presbyterian Church, Isaiah 40:1-11 and Mark 1:1-8, 12/6/2020

"Plenty of Light at the Banquet," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Amos 5:18-24 and Matthew 25:1-13, 11/8/2020

"The Other Side of the Great Ordeal," Berwyn Presbyterian Church, Revelation 7:9-17 and Matthew 5:1-12, 11/1/2020

"A Banquet of Reconciliation," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Isaiah 25:1-9 and Matthew 22:1-14, 10/11/2020

"As We Forgive Our Debtors," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Genesis 50:15-21 and Matthew 18:21-35, 9/13/2020

"Prodigals, Tax Collectors, and Lost Sheep," Warner Memorial Presbyterian Church, Ezekiel 33:7-11 and Matthew 18:15-20, 9/6/2020

"Faith to See in the Storm," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, 1 Kings 19:9-18 and Matthew 14:22-33, 8/9/2020

"A Stranger Named Love," St. Paul's Presbyterian Church, Genesis 32:22-31 and Matthew 14:13-21, 7/29/2020

"The Critical Business of Loving," Southminster Presbyterian Church, Isaiah 44:6-8 and Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43, 7/19/2020

"Silencing the Tumult," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Isaiah 55:10-13 and Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23, 7/12/2020

"A Pocket Full of Faith," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Genesis 12:1-4a and John 3:1-17, 3/8/2020

"Mountaintop Experiences," (audio link only) Northwood Presbyterian Church, Exodus 24:12-18 and Matthew 17:1-9, 2/23/2020

"God's Commands," (audio link only) Northwood Presbyterian Church, Deuteronomy 30:15-20 and Matthew 5:21-37, 2/16/2020

"Salt and Light," (video and audio link) Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Isaiah 58:1-9a and Matthew 5:13-20, 2/9/2020

"Remember Your Baptism," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Isaiah 42:1-9 and Matthew 3:13-17, 1/12/2020

"Confronting New Year's Challenges with Christmas Hope," Southminster Presbyterian Church, Isaiah 63:7-9 and Matthew 2:13-23, 12/29/2019

"The Peace of Christ at Christmastime," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Isaiah 11:1-10 and Matthew 3:1-12, 12/8/2019

"The Latter Splendor Shall be Greater than the Former," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Haggai 1:15b-2:9 and Luke 20:27-38, 11/10/2019

"Accepting the Unacceptable in Courageous Hope," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Jeremiah 29:1, 4-7 and Luke 17:11-19, 10/13/2019

"Lessons on Dishonesty and Shrewdness," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Jeremiah 8:18-9:1 and Luke 16:1-13, 9/22/2019 

"No Driftwood in Discipleship," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Jeremiah 18:1-11 and Luke 14:25-33, 9/8/2019

"Entertaining Angels," Berwyn Presbyterian Church, Hebrews 13:1-8, 15-16 and Luke 14:1, 7-14, 9/1/2019

"Faith for a Rebellious Nation," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Isaiah 1:1, 10-20 and  Hebrews 11:1-3, 8-16, 8/11/2019

"Rich Towards God and Neighbor," Northwood Presbyterian Church, Hosea 11:1-11 and Luke 12:13-21, 8/4/2019

"Who is My Neighbor?" Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Amos 7:7-17 and Luke 10:25-37, 7/14/2019

"Packing for the Journey," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, 2 Kings 2:1-2, 6-14 and Luke 9:51-62, 6/30/2019

"The Adventure of the Christian Life," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Acts 2:1-21 and John 14:8-17, 25-27, 6/9/2019

"The Horribly Wounded Hands," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Revelation 7:9-17 and John 10:22-30, 5/12/2019

"Now What?", Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Revelation 1:4-8 and John 20:19-31, 4/28/2019

"Beginning of the Lenten Journey," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Deuteronomy 26:1-11 and Luke 4:1-13, 3/10/2019

"Life-Changing Words," Northeastern Presbyterian Church, Exodus 34:29-35 and Luke 9:28-36, 3/3/2019

"Freedom from Life's Nets," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Isaiah 6:1-13 and Luke 5:1-11, 2/10/2019

"Mission and Purpose in a New Year," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Nehemiah 8:1-10 and Luke 4:14-21, 1/27/2019

"A Baptism of the Beloved and Precious One," Northwood Presbyterian Church, Isaiah 43:1-7 and Luke 3:15-22, 1/13/2019

"The Wall with Paint on It," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Hebrews 10:5-10 and Luke 1:39-55,   12/23/2018

"The Christmas Guest's Gift of Miracle in Erēmos," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Malachi 3:1-4 and Luke 3:1-6, 12/9/2018

"A Loving and Serving Witness," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Revelation 1:4-8 and John 18:33-37, 11/25/2018

 "The Sufficiency of God in a World of Need," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Job 2:1-10 and Hebrews 1:1-4, 2:5-12, 10/7/2018

"Jesus' Faith, Jesus' Work," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, James 2:1-17, Mark 7:24-37, 9/9/2018

"Discovering that I Had Not Lived," Northwood Presbyterian Church, Ephesians 5:15-20 and John 6:51-58, 8/19/18

"Walking on Water in the Midst of a Storm," Eastminster Presbyterian Church, 2 Kings 4:42-44 and John 6:1-21, 7/29/2018

"The Cross, the Grave, the Skies," Hope Presbyterian Church, Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16 and Romans 4:13-25, 2/25/2018

"Remembering Leads to Wholeness," Southminster Presbyterian Church, Isaiah 40:21-31 and Mark 1:29-39, 2/4/2018

"The Hopes and Fears of All the Years," Riverdale Presbyterian Church, Isaiah 64:1-9 and Mark 13:24-37, 12/3/2017

"The Yearly Physical," Northwood Presbyterian Church, Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24 and Matthew 25:31-46, 11/26/2017

"Purity or Messiness," Grace Presbyterian Church, Leviticus 19:1-2, 15-18 and Matthew 22:34-46, 10/29/2017

"Being in Relationship with Cyrus," Grace Presbyterian Church, Isaiah 45:1-7 and Matthew 22:15-22, 10/22/2017

"Characters in a Divine Love Song," Riverdale Presbyterian Church, Isaiah 5:1-7 and Matthew 21:33-46, 10/8/2017

"The Familiar Unknown," Riverdale Presbyterian Church, Exodus 16:2-16 and Matthew 20:1-16, 9/24/2017

"Dandelions out of Sidewalk Cracks," Riverdale Presbyterian Church, Zechariah 9:9-12 and Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, 7/9/2017

"The Harvest of our Souls," Sixth Presbyterian Church, Psalm 128 and Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43, 7/27/14

"Will You Join the Celebration?" Fairlington Presbyterian Church, Psalm 32 and Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32, 3/20/2013

"Ministry of Listening," Berwyn Presbyterian Church, 1 Samuel 8:4-11, 16-20 and Mark 3:20-35, 6/10/2012

"The Life Artist," Sixth Presbyterian Church, Genesis 29:15-28 and Romans 8:26-39, 7/24/2011

"Bless the Lord," Arlington Presbyterian Church, Nehemiah 8:1-10 and Luke 4:14-21, 1/24/2010

"The Peace of Christ," Sibley Memorial Hospital Chapel, John 14:27, 7/19/2008

"Wrestling with God," Sibley Memorial Hospital Chapel, Genesis 32:22-32, 7/10/2008

"A Cup of Cold Water," Bethesda Presbyterian Church, Genesis 22:1-14 and Matthew 10:40-42, 6/29/2008

"God's Plans," Sibley Memorial Hospital Chapel, Jeremiah 29:4-14, 6/21/2008

Good Friday Homily, National Presbyterian Church, Mark 15:34, 4/16/2007

"Reconciliation and the Prodigal Son," Foundations of Preaching Class, Luke 15:20, 3/5/2007

"The Harvest of our Souls," Foundations of Preaching Class, Matthew 13:24-30, 2/12/2007

Conferences / Talks / Speaking Engagements

Oct 20-22, 2020: Co-led workshop at Bullis on Engaging Students in Civic Discourse discussing conflict resolution and dialogue skills around the 2020 election.  This workshop was referenced in a letter by the Head of School in The Washington Post on Oct 20, 2020. 

  • "Further, two of our Upper School social studies teachers, Kristin Kowalew and Robbie Wellington, are running four workshops for faculty on facilitating civil discourse and conflict resolution." - Christian Sullivan, Head of School, Oct 14, 2020

Member of the Speakers Bureau | Community Hospices | Washington, DC | 2008-2017

Served as Inspirational Speaker at several conferences and events focused on hospice, death and dying, and/or spiritual care

Experience giving invocation on many occasions at various events

Frequently spoke at conferences on:

  • hospice and end-of-life care
  • spirituality and hospice care
  • the role of the chaplain within hospice care

Research / Teaching Interests

Intercultural Understanding / Communication / Culture and Conflict

Dialogue

Religion / Spirituality in Conflict Resolution

Human Sexuality / Gender Identity / LGBTQ Studies

Social Identity Theory

Restorative Justice / Reconciliation and Justice

Pastoral Care and Counseling / Family Systems Theory

Hospice / Death and Dying / Thanatology

Ethics

Mediation

Negotiation

China

Israel-Palestine

South Africa

Leadership Experience

Interim Chair, Social Studies Department | Bullis School | 2024-present

Vice-President, Student Council | Wesley Theological Seminary | 2004-2007

Co-Moderator, Presbyterian Student Fellowship | Wesley Theological Seminary | 2006-2007

Eagle Scout | July 1994

Vice-President, Junior Class | Dunwoody High School | 1992-1993

Certifications

Dialogue Facilitator, Trainer, and Mentor | American University | Fall 2009

Clinical Pastoral Education (1 Unit) | Sibley Memorial Hospital | Washington, DC | Summer 2007

Certified Mediator | American University | Fall 2005

Awards and Honors

STAR Employee of the Month                                                                 August 2015

        The Washington Home and Community Hospices

Employee of the Month                                                                            April 2011

        The Washington Home and Community Hospices

Biblical Interpretation Award                                                                 May 2008

        Wesley Theological Seminary

Outstanding Provincial Teacher Award                                             September 2000

        Weifang University – Shandong Province

Omicron Delta Kappa                                                                               May 1998

        Honorary Leadership Society

Alpha Pi Omega                                                                                          May 1996

        Honorary Theater Society

Who’s who in American High School Students                               June 1994

        Dunwoody High School

Superior Language Speaking Award in French                               February 1994

        Annual High School Language Forum          

Excellent Language Speaking Award in French                              February 1993

        Annual High School Language Forum

Select International Travel & Experience

Austria

Belgium

China / Taiwan / Tibet

Czech Republic

Egypt

France

Germany

Hungary

Israel-Palestine

Italy

Japan

Jordan

Luxembourg

Malaysia

Mexico

Monaco

Netherlands

Poland

Singapore

Slovakia

South Africa

Spain

Switzerland

Thailand

United Kingdom

Vietnam

Language Skills

English (native language)

French (intermediate)

German (intermediate)

Mandarin Chinese (intermediate)

Biblical Hebrew (intermediate)

Biblical Greek (intermediate)

Spanish (beginner)

Online Presence

Hobbies

Running (finished Marine Corps Marathon four times: 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009)

Scuba Diving (PADI-Certified Advanced Open Water Diver)

Spending time with rescue dog Emma and rescue cat Mr. Knightley

Biography

Rev. Dr. Wellington was born in Chicago, Illinois.  He went to middle school and high school in Atlanta, Georgia.  He studied at Presbyterian College in Clinton, South Carolina where he triple majored and double minored.  In 1998, he earned a Bachelor of Science in Political Science, a Bachelor of Arts in French with honors, and a Bachelor of Arts in German.  He also minored in international studies and English.  As part of his English minor, he focused primarily on Arthurian Legends, American Literature, the American Renaissance, and the works of Emerson, Thoreau, and Whitman.  For his political science major and international studies minor, his research and writing focused on Northern Ireland, China, and Israel-Palestine.  During his junior year of college, he studied abroad at Oxford University; the Goethe Institute near Munich, Germany; at the University of Vienna; and at the Sorbonne in Paris, France.  His courses focused on politics and government, history, literature, arts, language, and culture.  His BA French Honors Project was a Macrolevel Analysis and Survey of France’s Influence in the World Politically, Culturally, Historically, and Socially.

Upon graduation, he taught English in the People’s Republic of China at Weifang University in Shandong Province to Chinese English majors for five consecutive years from 1998-2003.  While living in China, he learned Mandarin.

In 2004, he went to Washington, DC to begin his graduate work in a dual-degree program at American University’s School of International Service and Wesley Theological Seminary.  In 2008, he received a Master of Arts in international peace and conflict resolution from American University, a Master of Divinity with honors from Wesley Theological Seminary, and a Master of Theological Studies with honors from Wesley Theological Seminary.  His areas of focus at Wesley were biblical interpretation (for which he received the Biblical Interpretation Award for the class of 2008), pastoral care and counseling, and Christian ethics.  He was active at American University in dialogue work as a facilitator, trainer, and mentor.  He co-facilitated dialogue groups on religion and spirituality, religion and sexuality, Palestine-Israel, and China-Japan relations.  Also, as part of his graduate work, he traveled to South Africa where he studied conflict resolution in a post-Apartheid context focusing on the works of Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu.  His master’s thesis was on The Unique Post-Apartheid South African Experience with LGBTQ Rights.

He was ordained as a Minister of the Word and Sacrament in the Presbyterian Church (USA) in May 2009 and served as a hospice chaplain in Washington, DC with Community Hospices for nine years (2008-2017).  He teaches undergraduate and graduate courses on Intercultural Understanding, Reconciliation and Justice, and Conflict Resolution at American University’s School of Professional and Extended Studies, American University’s School of International Service, and Wesley Theological Seminary.  He is also an Associate Presbyterian Chaplain at American University and an active member of the National Capital Presbytery preaching regularly at various churches throughout the Washington, DC area.  Wellington is the interim chair of the Social Studies Department and teaches AP Psychology at Bullis School.  

His research and teaching interests include intercultural understanding, culture and conflict, dialogue, mediation, negotiation, religion/spirituality in conflict resolution, human sexuality/gender identity/LGBTQ studies, social identity theory, restorative justice/reconciliation and justice, pastoral care and counseling/family systems theory, hospice/death and dying/thanatology, and ethics.  Regional interests include China, Israel-Palestine, and South Africa.