Osman Simsek
Osman Simsek joins Trinity College as the Director of Muslim Life, bringing over 20 years of experience as a dedicated Muslim Chaplain, Imam, and educator. He possesses a unique ability to blend traditional Islamic scholarship with modern chaplaincy training, having completed traditional Madrasah education—equivalent to a Ph.D. in Theology and Islamic Sciences—along with a Master’s degree in Islamic Chaplaincy and six units of Clinical Pastoral Education. This combination enables Osman to offer a holistic approach to spiritual caregiving, deeply rooted in both classical Islamic knowledge and contemporary pastoral care practices.
A central tenet of Osman’s work is the concept of being a compassionate companion, a role he refers to as the “Virtuous Companion,” inspired by the profound teachings of the Qur’an and Hadith. He emphasizes empathy, ethical conduct, and unwavering support in his spiritual guidance, drawing from Islamic traditions to foster meaningful connections in diverse environments. His native language is Turkish, and his proficiency in Ottoman Turkish, Arabic, and English enriches his perspective and enhances his ability to communicate with a wide range of individuals. In addition to being an accomplished author of six books, Osman has edited approximately 20 others and has produced hundreds of educational and religious videos, further demonstrating his expertise in video editing.
Osman strongly believes in the necessity of interfaith dialogue, guided by the Qur’anic principle of “te’âruf”—the idea of mutual recognition and understanding among diverse peoples. He believes that diversity is a manifestation of God’s will and wisdom, and that differences should be seen as a source of enrichment. With this perspective, Osman is dedicated not only to building a vibrant Muslim community at Trinity College but also to serving as a “Virtuous Companion” to all students, faculty, and staff, fostering spiritual growth, intercultural understanding, and mutual respect across the campus.
