Dr. David Rahimi is a passionate educator and scholar who brings a wealth of knowledge and a global perspective to Chesterton Academy Of The Holy Family. Joining the academy in 2022 as a dean and teacher, Dr. Rahimi’s diverse background and dedication to classical education make him an invaluable asset to the school community. His academic journey, deeply influenced by his family’s unique story, combined with his commitment to guiding students in virtue and knowledge, truly embodies the spirit of Chesterton Academy of the Holy Family.
Dr. Rahimi’s impressive academic credentials include a B.A. in History and Political Science, and an M.A. in South Asian and Middle Eastern Studies from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He furthered his studies to earn a Ph.D. in History from the University of Texas at Austin. This robust educational foundation is enriched by his personal history as a first-generation American. His family, Jewish-Christian Iranians, sought asylum in the United States following the Iranian Revolution, instilling in him a profound appreciation for diverse cultures and perspectives. Prior to his role at Chesterton Academy of the Holy Family, Dr. Rahimi taught American history and British imperialism in the Middle East at UT Austin, providing him with extensive experience in engaging students with complex historical narratives.
Inspired by scripture, particularly Matthew 5:43-48, Dr. Rahimi is committed to more than just academic instruction. He strives to cultivate virtue and knowledge in his students, shaping them into well-rounded individuals. His favorite Bible verse, Ecclesiastes 12:13-14, encapsulates his guiding philosophy: “Fear God, and keep his commandments; for this is the whole of man. For God will bring every deed into judgment, with every secret thing, whether good or evil.” This verse underscores his belief in the importance of moral character and accountability, principles he actively imparts to his students at Chesterton Academy of the Holy Family. Beyond the classroom, Dr. Rahimi is a storyteller at heart. He is an avid reader of history, with a particular interest in consumer culture and the Middle East. He also enjoys video game RPGs, appreciating their capacity for storytelling and reflection on human nature. Furthermore, his creative pursuits extend to writing poetry, fiction, and campaign settings for TTRPGs, showcasing his diverse intellectual and artistic interests.
Dr. Rahimi’s commitment to community and faith is evident in his personal life. He, along with his wife and two young daughters, are active members of Queen of Apostles in Joliet. His wife contributes to the parish choir, and together, they demonstrate their dedication to the Chesterton Academy of the Holy Family community by praying for its students each night. In moments of leisure, Dr. Rahimi enjoys baking, and a unique detail from his past is that he lived in Mexico for a month during high school, further illustrating his adventurous spirit and openness to new experiences. Dr. Rahimi’s multifaceted background, from his academic achievements and teaching experience to his personal values and community involvement, enriches the Chesterton Academy of the Holy Family, making him a truly exceptional educator and mentor.
