Process Summer Academy

Held annually in China, the Process Summer Academy is co-hosted by the Institute for Postmodern Development of China, the Center for Process Studies, and local partners. Rooted in Whitehead’s process philosophy and constructive postmodernism, it explores alternatives to modernist thinking and new directions for human civilization.

Each year focuses on a theme—such as education, organic agriculture, or Chinese traditional wisdom—combining theory and practice. Since 2006, it has connected scholars, students, and changemakers from China, the U.S., and beyond, fostering dialogue, transformation, and cross-cultural friendship.

The Academy also builds theoretical foundations for ecological civilization, preparing future leaders for a more relational, sustainable, and compassionate world.

Co-Directors

Jay McDaniel is Willis Holmes Professor of Religious Studies at Hendrix College in Arkansas, and founder of the website Jesus, Jazz, and Buddhism: Process Thinking for a More Hospitable World. Active in the development of process thought in China, he is a consultant to the China Project of the Center for Process Studies in Claremont, California and a member of the advisory board of the Institute for Postmodern Development of China. His books include With Roots and Wings: Christianity in an Age of Ecology and Dialogue; Living from the Center: Spirituality in an Age of Consumerism; and Gandhi’s Hope: Learning from Other Religions as a Path to Peace. His primary areas of interest include process philosophy, holistic community, inter-religious dialogue, ecological spirituality, and music.

Dr. Paul Bube joined the Lyon faculty in 2001 after serving as professor of religion and philosophy and chair of the Division of Humanities and Fine Arts at Kansas Wesleyan University. Dr. Bube was honored in 1999 with the Kansas Wesleyan University Exemplary Teaching Award. Dr. Bube is the former president of Habitat for Humanity of Independence County and a former board member of Batesville Help and Hope. He’s currently vice president of Faculty Assembly and faculty sponsor for the Wesley Fellowship. In 2009, Dr. Bube received Lyon’s Lamar Williamson Prize for Excellence in Teaching.