Dean Richard B. Hays has announced the appointment of the Rev. Meghan Feldmeyer Benson as the new chaplain of the Divinity School, effective July 1.

Benson has served as director of worship for Duke Chapel since 2006, where she planned and led worship, counseled students, and provided spiritual guidance for many members of the Duke University community.

In her new position at the Divinity School, she will be responsible for overseeing all worship services in Goodson Chapel, organizing and directing spiritual formation groups, and providing pastoral care for students, faculty, and staff.

“I cannot think of anyone better suited for this role than Meghan, and have expressed that view to both Meghan and Dean Richard Hays,” said Luke Powery, dean of Duke Chapel. “I believe God is calling her to this job and am excited to see how the Spirit will use her many gifts in and through it.”

Benson holds B.A. degrees in religious studies and psychology from Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas, and a M.Div. from Duke Divinity School. A native of Colorado Springs, Colo., she is an ordained elder in the Rocky Mountain Conference of the United Methodist Church.

“I share Dean Powery’s conviction that God has brought Meghan to this calling, and prepared her well for it,” Hays said. “I am looking forward eagerly to her ministry in the Divinity School in the years ahead.”

Benson will start her new position after the retirement of the Rev. Sally Bates, who has been chaplain at the Divinity School since 2002.