With one PhD and four post-graduate degrees in different streams including philosophy, applied mathematics, theological studies, physics and geophysical sciences, William Kallfelz has taught classes in mathematics, environmental ethics, statistics, religion, business ethics, philosophy, medical ethics and logic among others at Mississippi State University. 
Kallfelz said at the age of 21 he wanted to be a monk and has attended a monastery. He said he read a lot of literature and practiced yoga as a teenager but always wanted to be an engineer. 
“The reason why I got a master’s in religious studies is because I loved the idea of reading theology, and my real interests have been more in the theoretical side,” Kallfelz said. 
Kallfelz has taught at MSU since 2010 for various departments. 
Whit Ables, junior biochemistry major who was enrolled in Kallfelz’s religion class in spring 2013, said Kallfelz constantly challenged students to apply the knowledge learned in class to their personal lives.
“He asked us to see the beauty and spirituality in the ordinary and the mundane, to view the world in a newer, fresher way. One of the many outstanding qualities I recognized from Dr. Kallfelz is his unceasing willingness to get to know every one of his students,” Ables said. “He made an effort to not only be a professor, but also to add the human element and personalize the teaching and learning experience.”
John Bickle, head of the philosophy and religion department at MSU, said Kallfelz’s teaching reviews have been near department averages, which are high compared to both College of Arts and Sciences and university averages.
“I should note that the better, more interested students give him very high marks. He’s been especially liked by students who take his environmental ethics class, and he’s worked with some of those students on the sustainable environments projects university-wide. He’s outstanding as a team player. He’s taught every course I’ve asked him to each here at MSU,” Bickle said.
Sarah Weems, senior accounting major at MSU, said she enjoyed being under his instruction, and he was always enthusiastic about the subject matter and engaging.  
“My true appreciation for Dr. Kallfelz came from the few discussions we had outside of the classroom setting. He is a true student in that he seeks out understanding in several areas, not to boast at his achievements, but to simply learn,” Weems said. “His lack of arrogance made him very approachable. This I particularly appreciated because he has been exposed to several cultures and experiences that lead to very interesting, extemporaneous conversations.” 
Kallfelz said he sees teaching as a craft and the rewards he has received from his work havw kept him motivated to teach.
“Some days the magic is there and some days it is not. It is good if I get positive feedback, but I get a lot of intrinsic satisfaction when I feel I have engaged an audience, and they are coming to class for a reason,” Kallfelz said. 
Paul Leone Davis, senior interdisciplinary studies major, said his experience with Kallfelz has been refreshing.
“The professors in the philosophy department have been interesting and challenging, but Dr. Kallfelz adds an additional dimension to his instruction. His diverse experience and extensive education allow him to bond with his students in an unique manner. His eclectic education in hard science, philosophy, religion and mathematics coupled with his extensive world travels allow him to converse with students from diverse backgrounds,” Davis  said. “He learns the names and interests of his students mastering the art of practical application, which draws the students into the lesson. This provokes interest and passion for the particular subject matter he teaches. These qualities create an atmosphere of comfort and familiarity to beckon a person to sit and contemplate.”
Bickle said a strong wave in academic philosophy over the past 40 years is increasingly interdisciplinary.
“One of my goals as department head here at MSU has been to make our department reflect this broader national trend. William is one person doing exactly that, both in his teaching, research and service to the university and community,” Bickle said. “His multi-disciplinary background from very strong programs prepared him well for this new emphasis in academic philosophy.” 
Kallfelz said there are sacred moments in teaching and an important factor that goes into a good day at work is grace.
“A gardener has to prepare the soil, but what happens after that is not up to him. I really think there is an element of grace. You have to make an effort to prepare yourself for being receptive, but sometimes it happens and sometimes it doesn’t, and when it happens I really think there is nothing I have done,” Kallfelz said.