About Human Formation Institute
Why the Human Formation Institute exists.
The Human Formation Institute exists to change how people are formed so they may thrive in the world they inherit rather than merely survive it.
Conformari Christo. To be conformed to Christ.
Founded by Dr. Jason Owen
Jason Owen founded the Human Formation Institute because he saw people becoming increasingly fearful of technology. Many either resisted it out of fear or embraced it without formation.
He believed that Christ's command, "Do not be afraid," applies even in the age of artificial intelligence. If humanity was created by God, humanity need not fear what humanity creates. The task is to become the kind of people who can faithfully steward every gift entrusted to them.
Dr. Jason Owen is an assistant professor of computer science and information systems, educator, researcher, author, and formation scholar. He brings together technical expertise, software development, AI research, curriculum design, pedagogy, institutional leadership, and faith-informed human formation.
The Human Person
Human beings are made in the image of God.
A human being is a unique creation of God, made in His image, endowed with inherent dignity, and created to love God above all else and to love one's neighbor as oneself. Every human life is a sacred vocation called to grow in truth, wisdom, virtue, and faithful stewardship.
What this means
- Human worth is given by God.
- Human identity is not defined by productivity or output.
- Technology should serve the human person.
- Human beings are called to love, responsibility, vocation, and service.
- Jesus Christ reveals the fullness of authentic humanity.
Christian Foundation
Christ is the fullest revelation of authentic humanity.
The Human Formation Institute will always proclaim that Jesus Christ is the true way to a life of lasting joy, peace, and purpose. The Institute seeks to form people who increasingly reflect His wisdom, courage, love, humility, service, and faithfulness.
The Institute welcomes collaboration with institutions seeking the common good, but it will not conceal its Christian identity for financial gain, prestige, approval, or access.
Benedictine and Newmanian Foundations
Benedictine Formation
Benedictine spirituality contributes stability, humility, prayer, work, community, stewardship, disciplined practice, and ordered life to the Institute's understanding of formation.
Newmanian Education
John Henry Newman contributes a vision of education that forms the intellect, conscience, judgment, truthfulness, the whole person, and the integration of knowledge.
The Human Formation Institute integrates these traditions with computer science, AI research, curriculum design, and institutional practice. References to these traditions do not imply formal sponsorship by Saint Meinrad, the Benedictine Confederation, Newman institutions, or any religious order.
Measure of Success
Success is measured by faithful flourishing.
The Human Formation Institute succeeds whenever those it forms faithfully use their gifts, leadership, knowledge, and influence to help people flourish and reflect the character of Christ in their homes, workplaces, communities, and institutions.
Faithful stewardship is measured not only by what we achieve, but also by what we refuse to become.
Education and Identity
Academic Background
- Doctor of Business Administration, Liberty University, 2021
- Master of Science in Information Systems, Liberty University, 2016
- Master of Arts in Christian Ministry Leadership, Liberty University, 2014
- Bachelor of Science in Information Technology, Macon State University, 2010
Working Intersections
- Artificial intelligence and ethics
- Computing education and human flourishing
- Faith, theology, ministry, and formation
- Responsible innovation and institutional leadership
Dr. Owen's work spans full-stack software development, artificial intelligence, software architecture, project management, curriculum design, and responsible technology adoption. This technical foundation allows the Human Formation Institute to move beyond abstract discussion and help institutions design practical systems, learning experiences, and implementation strategies.
Explore Technology ConsultingFor Human Advantage workshops, speaking, curriculum design, technical implementation, research collaboration, or institutional conversations, start with a formation inquiry.
Bring Human Advantage to Your Organization