Una Stroda, a citizen of both Latvia and the USA, studied piano at Latvia Academy of Music, earning BA degree in Piano Performance but then proceeded to earn another BA degree in the field of theology and religious studies from University of Latvia. This passion led her to pursue further degrees first in Geneva, Switzerland, then in Chicago, USA where Una graduated with MA from Catholic Theological Union and PhD from the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago. Her area of study centers around the fascinating and somewhat unconventional subject of the complex and intricate connection between laughter and spirituality, with an emphasis on the role of laughter in both the historical and contemporary context of the Christian church. As recent rapid advances in artificial intelligence have transformed the cultural landscape, there have also emerged new avenues of theological inquiry and new opportunities to revisit theological questions about laughter, creativity, spirituality and personhood. Una has published several articles and presented at numerous theological conferences around the world. While doing theological research, Una continues her musical pursuits, actively participating in various amateur piano competitions, such as Boston, Chicago, Washington D.C. and Seattle, as well as recitals and performances.

“Fun fact: Pope Leo and I both attended the same school, Catholic Theological Union — just not at the same time.”