Imam Kaiser Aslam

Kaiser Aslam serves as the first full-time Muslim Chaplain at Rutgers University, a pioneering role he has held since August 2016, making him one of the first full-time Muslim chaplains at a public university in the United States. His appointment addresses the spiritual, emotional, and physical needs of an estimated 5,000 Muslim students at Rutgers, providing a vital resource for a diverse and vibrant community. Aslam’s work is rooted in fostering an inclusive environment, supporting students through counseling, spiritual guidance, and community-building initiatives at the Center for Islamic Life at Rutgers University (CILRU).

Kaiser Aslam holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Elmhurst College. He furthered his education with a Master’s degree in Islamic Studies and Muslim-Christian Relations from Hartford Seminary, graduating in 2016. He has also studied classical Islamic sciences, including Arabic, tafseer, hadith, and fiqh, both in the United States and abroad at institutions such as Markaz Fajr in Egypt, and Al Amana Center in Oman. This robust academic foundation equips him to engage with students on matters of faith, identity, and intercultural dialogue.

His approachable demeanor and dedication have made him a trusted confidant for students, navigating their spiritual, emotional, and identity-related challenges. His prior role as Muslim Chaplain at Wesleyan University, where he left a lasting legacy, and his work as National Coordinator of Young Muslims, North America’s largest Muslim youth group, have further cemented his reputation as a dynamic leader in Muslim community engagement.

Aslam’s role at Rutgers involves a wide range of responsibilities. He provides pastoral care, offering spiritual and emotional support to students, particularly those grappling with their Muslim identity or facing challenges such as Islamophobia. He facilitates weekly classes on Islamic topics through CILRU, fostering education and community.
Beyond Rutgers, he is a sought-after public speaker, traveling across the United States to deliver lectures on Islam, interfaith dialogue, Muslim youth, and cultural issues.