Autodayfall13 binder

Fall 2013

In this issue:

Now in its 21st year, Africa University is part of a crucial feeder system for nurturing a new generation of principled leaders.

Illinois Great Rivers Expands AU Scholarships

Hockessin UMC Supports Endowed Scholarships for AU Students

Sam Hodges Delaware congregation leads in contribution to endowed scholarships.

AU Graduate Serves as Church and Society Organizer in the Congo

Barbara Dunlap-Berg Ado Omakinda Odimba credits Africa University with providing foundation for a life of service.

Baltimore-Washington Annual Conference Shapes the Life of a Nation

Melissa Lauber Partnership with Zimbabwe United Methodists fosters mutual sharing.

The Halsteds’ Gift Keeps on Giving

Elaine Jenkins Seven pastors, to date, have obtained a theological education at AU, thanks to generous Michigan couple.

resumed her nursing career after their daughters became teenagers.

Since retiring and since Marceline’s death in 2005, Ted has continued to pursue his many interests.

He plays violin in the Richmond Community Orchestra; he is editor of the Friends Fellowship Community newsletter; he sings in the chancel choir at Central United Methodist Church in Richmond; he has traveled to Russia, Haiti, Sierra Leone and within the United States on mission projects; and he is the author of two books: Spring-Fed Waters: the Story of a Lake in Northern Michigan and Grandfather Tales of Lake Louise.

This past March, Ted traveled to Zimbabwe to attend the 20th anniversary celebration at Africa University. A special thrill for him was meeting the two current recipients of his and Marceline’s endowed scholarship.

“What a joy it is that we included Africa University in our estate plans!

Already our gift is a gift that keeps on giving!” Ted exclaimed.

Rev. A.Theodore (Ted) Halsted, Jr. and wife Marceline Halsted

­ Elaine Jenkins, — AU Development Office

Rev. A. Theodore (Ted) Halsted, Jr. and his wife Marceline became enthusiastic supporters of Africa University from its founding. In 1995, they endowed a scholarship in the Faculty of Theology, which has enabled seven pastors, to date, to obtain theological education.

“We wanted to have a part in the amazing turn to Christ taking place in Africa,” Ted said.

Ted was born in Kalamazoo, Mich., one of four children born to the Rev. Alfred T. and Florence Gorton Halsted. Ted earned his B.A. degree in English Literature from DePauw (Ind.) University in 1949.

Shortly after graduating, he was one of 50 missionary interns commissioned by the Methodist Board of Missions (predecessor to the General Board of Global Ministries) to serve in south India and Pakistan for three years.

It was in India that Ted and Marceline met and later became engaged.

Marceline grew up in South Charleston, W. Va., one of four children born to Paul and Frances Smith. She earned her B.A. degree from Morris Harvey College (now Charleston University) and her nursing degree from St. Frances Nursing School (W. Va.), with further preparation for missionary service at Hartford Seminary (Conn.). In India, she was superintendent of nursing at Methodist Hospital in Nadiad, Gujarat State, and was one of the founders of the Methodist School of Nursing in Nadiad.

Ted returned to the United States in 1952 to attend Yale Divinity School. He and Marceline married upon her return in 1953. Two daughters, Gwendolyn and Carolyn, were born of their marriage. The Halsted family also included at various times through the years a number of exchange students.

From 1956 until his retirement in 1992, Ted served pastoral appointments in the Detroit Annual Conference, including serving as district superintendent. Marceline Family Photo

606313/50M

The Halsteds’ Gift That Keeps on Giving

Celebrating the Connection between Africa University and United Methodist Congregations 100 Percent Support

Thank you for supporting Africa University through your 100 percent remittance of the Africa University Fund apportionment in 2012. Jurisdiction Total Support and Annual Conferences with 100 percent or more in 2012 (includes 2011 performance)

North Central Jurisdiction 2012 2011 East Ohio 100% 100% Illinois Great Rivers 100% 100% Iowa 100.57% 100% Minnesota 100% 102.86% Northern Illinois 100% 100% West Michigan 100% West Ohio 100% 100% Wisconsin 169.31% 151.51%

Northeastern Jurisdiction Baltimore-Washington 100% 100% Greater New Jersey 104.69% 100% New England 100% 100% New York 100% 100% Susquehanna 100% Peninsula-Delaware 100% 100% Upper New York 100% 100% West Virginia 100% 112.46% Western Pennsylvania 100% 100%

South Central Jurisdiction Central Texas 100% Kansas West 100% Louisiana 100.03% 100.01% North Texas 100.50% Oklahoma Indian Missionary 100% 100.05% Southwest Texas 100%

100% 100.02% 100% 100%

Southeastern Jurisdiction Florida 100% 100% Holston 100% 100% North Carolina 100% 100% North Georgia 113.58% Red Bird Missionary 100% 100.06% Tennessee 100% Western Jurisdiction Alaska United Methodist Desert Southwest

As Africa University celebrates 20 years of realized dreams, we look forward to your full support in 2013.

• Africa University is located in Old Mutare, Zimbabwe, and is the first fully accredited United Methodist–related educational institution on the African continent, established by action of the General Conference.

• Africa University offers bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in six faculties of learning: agriculture and natural resources, education, health sciences, humanities and social sciences, management and administration and theology. The Institute of Peace, Leadership and Governance offers postgraduate diplomas and master’s programs.

prayer, presence, apportionments and special giving. More than 4,700 graduates have been sent into the world from Africa University.”

Illinois Great Rivers already has in place four endowed scholarships that support undergraduate students. It also provides direct annual support to two graduate students enrolled in the Institute of Peace, Leadership and Governance.

At the completion of the campaign, the conference will provide access to higher education for at least 10 undergraduate and two graduate students.

With 12 scholarships endowed, the gifts invested today by churches and individuals in the conference will make dreams possible in perpetuity.

For years, Illinois Great Rivers has had a strong commitment of supporting Africa University.

Many people have been involved in seeing the dream become a reality through personal commitment, monetary contributions, building-projects support and fundraising for direct and endowed scholarship support for Pan-African students.

In 2012, Illinois Great Rivers was one of 27 annual conferences that paid 100 percent of its apportioned share of funding to Africa University.

Fall 2013

—Adapted from “The Acacia” newsletter and the Illinois Great Rivers Annual Conference website

Africa University considers the former Central and Southern Illinois conferences as founding partners for fundraising for the Bridge to Dreams in honor of Bishop Woodie W. White, the Richard Reeves Wesley Foundation and a maintenance building for the Africa University farm.

Enrollment at Africa University is at an all-time high.

The current enrollment of 2,000 represents students from 29 countries. However, this growth also means raising additional funds to assist students.

New programs are emerging, helping Africa University to grow and remain relevant to community needs across the continent. The new graduate programs in Child and Family Studies and Public Policy and Governance are making significant inroads as graduates return to their home countries to address a myriad of issues.

Now in its 21st year, Africa University is part of a crucial feeder system for nurturing a new generation of principled leaders in Africa.

‘The work of God’

Illinois Great Rivers Expands AU Scholarships

Richard Straub, conference AU committee chairperson (left), and Bishop Jonathan Keaton (right) with AU student, Ivan Milosi.

T

he Illinois Great Rivers Annual Conference is expanding its “Making Dreams Possible” scholarships campaign for Africa University.

Launched in 2012, the campaign had an initial target of $250,000 for immediate scholarship needs. In June, the conference quadrupled its campaign goal to $1 million over the next four years. The conference aims to fund eight new endowed scholarships for students through this expanded effort.

The move from immediate to endowed scholarships allows the conference to do even more for the university in a prudent, sustainable manner, according to Richard Straub, who heads the conference’s Africa University Committee. Bishop Jonathan D. Keaton, resident bishop of the conference, said, “Our denomination has built Africa University through

1

Elaine Jenkins Seven pastors, to date, have obtained a theological education at AU, thanks to generous Michigan couple.

The Halsteds’ Gift Keeps on Giving

Melissa Lauber Partnership with Zimbabwe United Methodists fosters mutual sharing.

Baltimore-Washington Annual Conference Shapes the Life of a Nation

Barbara Dunlap-Berg Ado Omakinda Odimba credits Africa University with providing foundation for a life of service.

AU Graduate Serves as Church and Society Organizer in the Congo

Sam Hodges Delaware congregation leads in contribution to endowed scholarships.

Hockessin UMC Supports Endowed Scholarships for AU Students

Now in its 21st year, Africa University is part of a crucial feeder system for nurturing a new generation of principled leaders.

Illinois Great Rivers Expands AU Scholarships

­ Elaine Jenkins, — AU Development Office

In this issue:

resumed her nursing career after their daughters became teenagers.

Since retiring and since Marceline’s death in 2005, Ted has continued to pursue his many interests.

He plays violin in the Richmond Community Orchestra; he is editor of the Friends Fellowship Community newsletter; he sings in the chancel choir at Central United Methodist Church in Richmond; he has traveled to Russia, Haiti, Sierra Leone and within the United States on mission projects; and he is the author of two books: Spring-Fed Waters: the Story of a Lake in Northern Michigan and Grandfather Tales of Lake Louise.

This past March, Ted traveled to Zimbabwe to attend the 20th anniversary celebration at Africa University. A special thrill for him was meeting the two current recipients of his and Marceline’s endowed scholarship.

“What a joy it is that we included Africa University in our estate plans!

Already our gift is a gift that keeps on giving!” Ted exclaimed.

Fall 2013

100 Percent Support

Thank you for supporting Africa University through your 100 percent remittance of the Africa University Fund apportionment in 2012. Jurisdiction Total Support and Annual Conferences with 100 percent or more in 2012 (includes 2011 performance)

Rev. A. Theodore (Ted) Halsted, Jr. and his wife Marceline became enthusiastic supporters of Africa University from its founding. In 1995, they endowed a scholarship in the Faculty of Theology, which has enabled seven pastors, to date, to obtain theological education.

“We wanted to have a part in the amazing turn to Christ taking place in Africa,” Ted said.

Ted was born in Kalamazoo, Mich., one of four children born to the Rev. Alfred T. and Florence Gorton Halsted. Ted earned his B.A. degree in English Literature from DePauw (Ind.) University in 1949.

Shortly after graduating, he was one of 50 missionary interns commissioned by the Methodist Board of Missions (predecessor to the General Board of Global Ministries) to serve in south India and Pakistan for three years.

Rev. A.Theodore (Ted) Halsted, Jr. and wife Marceline Halsted

Fall 2013

Illinois Great Rivers Expands AU Scholarships

North Central Jurisdiction 2012 2011 East Ohio 100% 100% Illinois Great Rivers 100% 100% Iowa 100.57% 100% Minnesota 100% 102.86% Northern Illinois 100% 100% West Michigan 100% West Ohio 100% 100% Wisconsin 169.31% 151.51% Northeastern Jurisdiction Baltimore-Washington 100% 100% Greater New Jersey 104.69% 100% New England 100% 100% New York 100% 100% Susquehanna 100% Peninsula-Delaware 100% 100% Upper New York 100% 100% West Virginia 100% 112.46% Western Pennsylvania 100% 100%

It was in India that Ted and Marceline met and later became engaged.

Marceline grew up in South Charleston, W. Va., one of four children born to Paul and Frances Smith. She earned her B.A. degree from Morris Harvey College (now Charleston University) and her nursing degree from St. Frances Nursing School (W. Va.), with further preparation for missionary service at Hartford Seminary (Conn.). In India, she was superintendent of nursing at Methodist Hospital in Nadiad, Gujarat State, and was one of the founders of the Methodist School of Nursing in Nadiad.

Ted returned to the United States in 1952 to attend Yale Divinity School. He and Marceline married upon her return in 1953. Two daughters, Gwendolyn and Carolyn, were born of their marriage. The Halsted family also included at various times through the years a number of exchange students.

From 1956 until his retirement in 1992, Ted served pastoral appointments in the Detroit Annual Conference, including serving as district superintendent. Marceline

The Halsteds’ Gift That Keeps on Giving

Celebrating the Connection between Africa University and United Methodist Congregations

South Central Jurisdiction Central Texas 100% Kansas West 100% Louisiana 100.03% 100.01% North Texas 100.50% Oklahoma Indian Missionary 100% 100.05% Southwest Texas 100% Southeastern Jurisdiction Florida 100% 100% Holston 100% 100% North Carolina 100% 100% North Georgia 113.58% Red Bird Missionary 100% 100.06% Tennessee 100% Western Jurisdiction Alaska United Methodist Desert Southwest

100% 100.02% 100% 100%

As Africa University celebrates 20 years of realized dreams, we look forward to your full support in 2013.

• Africa University is located in Old Mutare, Zimbabwe, and is the first fully accredited United Methodist–related educational institution on the African continent, established by action of the General Conference.

• Africa University offers bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in six faculties of learning: agriculture and natural resources, education, health sciences, humanities and social sciences, management and administration and theology. The Institute of Peace, Leadership and Governance offers postgraduate diplomas and master’s programs.

Richard Straub, conference AU committee chairperson (left), and Bishop Jonathan Keaton (right) with AU student, Ivan Milosi.

T

he Illinois Great Rivers Annual Conference is expanding its “Making Dreams Possible” scholarships campaign for Africa University.

Launched in 2012, the campaign had an initial target of $250,000 for immediate scholarship needs. In June, the conference quadrupled its campaign goal to $1 million over the next four years. The conference aims to fund eight new endowed scholarships for students through this expanded effort.

The move from immediate to endowed scholarships allows the conference to do even more for the university in a prudent, sustainable manner, according to Richard Straub, who heads the conference’s Africa University Committee. Bishop Jonathan D. Keaton, resident bishop of the conference, said, “Our denomination has built Africa University through

prayer, presence, apportionments and special giving. More than 4,700 graduates have been sent into the world from Africa University.”

Illinois Great Rivers already has in place four endowed scholarships that support undergraduate students. It also provides direct annual support to two graduate students enrolled in the Institute of Peace, Leadership and Governance.

At the completion of the campaign, the conference will provide access to higher education for at least 10 undergraduate and two graduate students.

With 12 scholarships endowed, the gifts invested today by churches and individuals in the conference will make dreams possible in perpetuity.

For years, Illinois Great Rivers has had a strong commitment of supporting Africa University.

Many people have been involved in seeing the dream become a reality through personal commitment, monetary contributions, building-projects support and fundraising for direct and endowed scholarship support for Pan-African students.

In 2012, Illinois Great Rivers was one of 27 annual conferences that paid 100 percent of its apportioned share of funding to Africa University.

‘The work of God’ Africa University considers the former Central and Southern Illinois conferences as founding partners for fundraising for the Bridge to Dreams in honor of Bishop Woodie W. White, the Richard Reeves Wesley Foundation and a maintenance building for the Africa University farm.

Enrollment at Africa University is at an all-time high.

The current enrollment of 2,000 represents students from 29 countries. However, this growth also means raising additional funds to assist students.

New programs are emerging, helping Africa University to grow and remain relevant to community needs across the continent. The new graduate programs in Child and Family Studies and Public Policy and Governance are making significant inroads as graduates return to their home countries to address a myriad of issues.

Now in its 21st year, Africa University is part of a crucial feeder system for nurturing a new generation of principled leaders in Africa.

—Adapted from “The Acacia” newsletter and the Illinois Great Rivers Annual Conference website

Family Photo

1 606313/50M

• Africa University Fund: Pieces of the Dream DVD (600512) • We Are Africa University (600611) Order these and other resources from United Methodist Communications by calling toll-free (888) 346-3862.

Hours: Monday - Thursday,

7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m., Central

Friday, 7:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

For more information, visit www.umcgiving.org or www.infoserv.umc.org.

Learn more about how you can put your faith into action by contacting the Africa University Development Office at (615) 340-7438, audevoffice@gbhem.org or www.support-africauniversity.org.

Visit Africa University’s website at www.africau.edu.

Encourage your local church to set a 100-percent apportionment remittance goal! Sending a portion of your goal each month makes it easier to reach full remittance by year’s end.

Africa University Fund apportionment receipts from local churches provide the basics necessary to operate the university, such as utilities, equipment and faculty salaries.

Honor your friends or family by sponsoring an Africa University student in their name.

2

who have a particular interest in helping a United Methodist institution committed to training leaders for Africa.

“There’s a passion,” he said.

Others point to Goodwin’s special passion, which has led him to become a champion Hockessin UMC members display AUF appreciation for Africa University banner. within and outside his home church.

Sam Hodges Goodwin, a senior data analyst Hockessin United Methodist for DuPont Capital Management, Church, in Hockessin, Del. is a recalls attending General Confervital congregation conducting ence 1996, and hearing an appeal and supporting many ministries, for the school. one of which is Africa Univer“I had never heard of Africa sity. The Peninsula-Delaware University and wondered why Conference’s 450 churches fund they wanted my money,” he said. scholarships for Africa University “I had them send me some inforstudents, and Hockessin UMC mation. And in that information is the leading contributor to the was how an annual conference cause. That translates to about could endow a scholarship. In $40,000 of the $250,000 the ’97, when the conference passed a conference has raised. resolution to do that, I became the Kevin Goodwin, a longtime spokesperson. Our church chose member of Hockessin United to take the lead in raising money.”

Methodist, points to strong clergy Goodwin and Hockessin Unitsupport and to church members, ed Methodist have been Africa including a Peace Corps alum, University champions ever since.

AU Graduate Serves continued from page 2

He’s been on the school’s development committee since 2000.

That has him making several appearances on the school’s behalf each year. He’s appeals coordinator for the conference (which has him lifting up Africa University Sunday) and missions cluster chair for his church.

This year, Peninsula-Delaware Conference funds are providing one full scholarship and two partials. The recipients are Banza Mutunda Mimi, of the Democratic Republic of Congo, who is studying health services management; Marc Kamuze, also from Congo, who has been studying English intensively before beginning a business management major; and Takudzwa Andrew Kaguramamba, of Zimbabwe, pursuing an education degree with a focus in history.

Goodwin has not gotten to know them. But his visits with Africa University students and alumni – including translators at General Conference 2012, where Goodwin was a delegate – have left him ever more convinced of the cause.

— Hodges is a freelance writer in Dallas

AU Graduate Serves as Church and Society Organizer in the Congo Barbara Dunlap- Berg In January 2013, the United Methodist Board of Church and Society conducted its first-ever grassroots organizing workshop to achieve social justice in Zimbabwe. Twenty-seven people gathered at Africa University for the three-day training.

One participant was Ado Omakinda Odimba, a graduate of Africa University and now an organizer in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

“I have long been interested in social justice ministry,” Odimba said. “I was recommended by another Africa Omakinda Odimba University graduate to serve as church and society organizer in Congo. I attended the training and started working

and possible concepts toward development and engagement to successful ministry as part of their faith and testimony as Christians.”

At Africa University, Odimba studied marketing. However, a vocation on peace building, community healing and development piqued his interest.

“Now that I am involved in it, I look forward to this being part of my life and continuing to work on social justice issues.

It’s a new direction that puts (into) practice my academic skills, personal vocation and understanding of my call and faith for service.”

Odimba credits Africa

continued on page 3

Neal Christie (GBCS), Omakinda Odimba (middle) and Pierre Omadjela (far right), both AU grads, at the State House in Kinshasa.

University with providing a strong foundation.

“I acquired a lot of skills by engaging in extracurricular activities in the chaplaincy,” he said. “More than that, it was the multicultural experience, understanding others and being ready to serve others. AU prepared me (for) a life of service, valuing the good of the community

and seeking to make the world a better place as we all benefit from it.”

The lessons he learned outside the classroom, he noted, were just as important as those he learned inside the classroom.

“The mere fact of living with people from different cultures, developing new relationships (and) exploring faith beyond our background and reality beyond our cultures transformed me,” he said. “I take pride in being an Africa University graduate because I believe I have had the best education one would have desired that is complete, from academic to social.”

— Dunlap-Berg is internal content editor at United Methodist Communications, Nashville, Tenn.

Baltimore-Washington Conference Shapes the Life of a Nation

Bishop Marcus Matthews (middle) and Rev. J.W. Park, dean of the BWC Cabinet, greet Bishop Eben Nhiwatiwa, of Zimbabwe in Mutare.

Melissa Lauber

on several plans for church and society ministry in the Congo.”

Transforming communities into “safer havens, where peace, justice and self-realization is made possible with good health” is important to Odimba.

“The country has gone through a lot, and I feel that solutions need to be developed and implemented locally,” he said. “Thus our work in organizing workshops and seminars to enable people to grasp positive

Clayton Childers

Order a family of resources to help tell the story of the Africa University Fund apportionment:

Hockessin UMC Supports Endowed Scholarships for AU Students

Melissa Lauber

Give Faithfully.

Give Hope.

This summer, a diverse team of 33 people journeyed to Zimbabwe to deepen the partnership of the Baltimore-Washington Conference and the Zimbabwe Episcopal Area and unite in common ministries.

Bishop Marcus Matthews, episcopal leader of the Baltimore-Washington Conference, led the team.

“The partnership between the Zimbabwe Episcopal Area and the Baltimore-Washington Conference was forged 16 years

ago by the Holy Spirit,” said Greater Washington District Superintendent Joseph Daniels, who now leads the Africa Initiative Project for the conference.

It was “designed for long-term learning and spiritual blessing.”

One of the remarkable successes of this partnership has been a focus on HIV/AIDS education at Africa University and throughout the nation that has dramatically raised awareness of the causes of the disease and helped stem its spread. “The BaltimoreWashington Conference has been involved with Africa University from the very beginning and still is,” Jim Salley, associate vice chancellor for institutional advancement, said. “That is a God-given gift to us. We can’t say thank you enough for being the church, not only in the U.S., but also in the world.”

For Bishop Marcus Matthews, episcopal leader of the Baltimore-

Washington Conference, whose ministry emphasizes education, living in the fullness of God often involves learning. As the vice chairperson of the board of directors for Africa University, he was excited about the potential the pastors’ school has to ripple throughout churches and communities, shaping the life of a nation.

“This is a spiritual thing for me,” said Bishop Matthews, “because every time I see the students, I see the face of Christ in them. Their stories … touch the heart. Many of them have lived lives that have been broken. But the university helps put them back together. This is a place of transformation – for the students and for the continent.”

—Adapted from a blog by Lauber, Baltimore-Washington Conference director of communications. She was part of the delegation that visited Zimbabwe.

How You Can Help Africa University continues to be the evidence of faith, hope and belief in the visions of dreamers. We are counting on you! Your church’s 100 percent apportionment remittance means 100 percent support of Africa University’s operational budget. Consider these additional ways of helping the university to educate new leaders for the nations of Africa: Planned Gifts – Planned gifts are the foundation for the long-term survival of Africa University. For many, a bequest offers an opportunity to make a more substantial charitable gift than would be possible during one’s lifetime.

As you make your estate plans, consider leaving a gift to Africa University in your will.

If you already have included Africa University in your estate plans, please let us know so we may welcome you to the Richard E. “Dick” Reeves Legacy Society.

Usahwira – This word in the Shona language means “a beautiful friendship.” Encourage your local church to become a partner with Africa University by supporting one student at the university for four years. The cost to support one student annually is $5,400.

Local churches may provide full or partial scholarships.

Endowment Fund – Give to the Africa University Endowment Fund (World Service Special Gift #03-01-88). The interest income from the endowment is used to provide scholarships for our students.

Africa University is supported by congregations and individuals across The United Methodist Church. Let’s work together to continue the transformation of lives and of Africa.

For more information, please contact:

Africa University Development Office

P.O. Box 340007 Nashville, TN 37203-0007 (615) 340-7438 (phone) (615) 340-7290 (fax) audevoffice@gbhem.org www.support-africauniversity.org

3

• Africa University Fund: Pieces of the Dream DVD (600512) • We Are Africa University (600611) Order these and other resources from United Methodist Communications by calling toll-free (888) 346-3862.

Hours: Monday - Thursday,

7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m., Central

Friday, 7:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

For more information, visit www.umcgiving.org or www.infoserv.umc.org.

Learn more about how you can put your faith into action by contacting the Africa University Development Office at (615) 340-7438, audevoffice@gbhem.org or www.support-africauniversity.org.

Visit Africa University’s website at www.africau.edu.

Encourage your local church to set a 100-percent apportionment remittance goal! Sending a portion of your goal each month makes it easier to reach full remittance by year’s end.

Africa University Fund apportionment receipts from local churches provide the basics necessary to operate the university, such as utilities, equipment and faculty salaries.

Honor your friends or family by sponsoring an Africa University student in their name.

2

who have a particular interest in helping a United Methodist institution committed to training leaders for Africa.

“There’s a passion,” he said.

Others point to Goodwin’s special passion, which has led him to become a champion Hockessin UMC members display AUF appreciation for Africa University banner. within and outside his home church.

Sam Hodges Goodwin, a senior data analyst Hockessin United Methodist for DuPont Capital Management, Church, in Hockessin, Del. is a recalls attending General Confervital congregation conducting ence 1996, and hearing an appeal and supporting many ministries, for the school. one of which is Africa Univer“I had never heard of Africa sity. The Peninsula-Delaware University and wondered why Conference’s 450 churches fund they wanted my money,” he said. scholarships for Africa University “I had them send me some inforstudents, and Hockessin UMC mation. And in that information is the leading contributor to the was how an annual conference cause. That translates to about could endow a scholarship. In $40,000 of the $250,000 the ’97, when the conference passed a conference has raised. resolution to do that, I became the Kevin Goodwin, a longtime spokesperson. Our church chose member of Hockessin United to take the lead in raising money.”

Methodist, points to strong clergy Goodwin and Hockessin Unitsupport and to church members, ed Methodist have been Africa including a Peace Corps alum, University champions ever since.

AU Graduate Serves continued from page 2

He’s been on the school’s development committee since 2000.

That has him making several appearances on the school’s behalf each year. He’s appeals coordinator for the conference (which has him lifting up Africa University Sunday) and missions cluster chair for his church.

This year, Peninsula-Delaware Conference funds are providing one full scholarship and two partials. The recipients are Banza Mutunda Mimi, of the Democratic Republic of Congo, who is studying health services management; Marc Kamuze, also from Congo, who has been studying English intensively before beginning a business management major; and Takudzwa Andrew Kaguramamba, of Zimbabwe, pursuing an education degree with a focus in history.

Goodwin has not gotten to know them. But his visits with Africa University students and alumni – including translators at General Conference 2012, where Goodwin was a delegate – have left him ever more convinced of the cause.

— Hodges is a freelance writer in Dallas

AU Graduate Serves as Church and Society Organizer in the Congo Barbara Dunlap- Berg In January 2013, the United Methodist Board of Church and Society conducted its first-ever grassroots organizing workshop to achieve social justice in Zimbabwe. Twenty-seven people gathered at Africa University for the three-day training.

One participant was Ado Omakinda Odimba, a graduate of Africa University and now an organizer in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

“I have long been interested in social justice ministry,” Odimba said. “I was recommended by another Africa Omakinda Odimba University graduate to serve as church and society organizer in Congo. I attended the training and started working

and possible concepts toward development and engagement to successful ministry as part of their faith and testimony as Christians.”

At Africa University, Odimba studied marketing. However, a vocation on peace building, community healing and development piqued his interest.

“Now that I am involved in it, I look forward to this being part of my life and continuing to work on social justice issues.

It’s a new direction that puts (into) practice my academic skills, personal vocation and understanding of my call and faith for service.”

Odimba credits Africa

continued on page 3

Neal Christie (GBCS), Omakinda Odimba (middle) and Pierre Omadjela (far right), both AU grads, at the State House in Kinshasa.

University with providing a strong foundation.

“I acquired a lot of skills by engaging in extracurricular activities in the chaplaincy,” he said. “More than that, it was the multicultural experience, understanding others and being ready to serve others. AU prepared me (for) a life of service, valuing the good of the community

and seeking to make the world a better place as we all benefit from it.”

The lessons he learned outside the classroom, he noted, were just as important as those he learned inside the classroom.

“The mere fact of living with people from different cultures, developing new relationships (and) exploring faith beyond our background and reality beyond our cultures transformed me,” he said. “I take pride in being an Africa University graduate because I believe I have had the best education one would have desired that is complete, from academic to social.”

— Dunlap-Berg is internal content editor at United Methodist Communications, Nashville, Tenn.

Baltimore-Washington Conference Shapes the Life of a Nation

Bishop Marcus Matthews (middle) and Rev. J.W. Park, dean of the BWC Cabinet, greet Bishop Eben Nhiwatiwa, of Zimbabwe in Mutare.

Melissa Lauber

on several plans for church and society ministry in the Congo.”

Transforming communities into “safer havens, where peace, justice and self-realization is made possible with good health” is important to Odimba.

“The country has gone through a lot, and I feel that solutions need to be developed and implemented locally,” he said. “Thus our work in organizing workshops and seminars to enable people to grasp positive

Clayton Childers

Order a family of resources to help tell the story of the Africa University Fund apportionment:

Hockessin UMC Supports Endowed Scholarships for AU Students

Melissa Lauber

Give Faithfully.

Give Hope.

This summer, a diverse team of 33 people journeyed to Zimbabwe to deepen the partnership of the Baltimore-Washington Conference and the Zimbabwe Episcopal Area and unite in common ministries.

Bishop Marcus Matthews, episcopal leader of the Baltimore-Washington Conference, led the team.

“The partnership between the Zimbabwe Episcopal Area and the Baltimore-Washington Conference was forged 16 years

ago by the Holy Spirit,” said Greater Washington District Superintendent Joseph Daniels, who now leads the Africa Initiative Project for the conference.

It was “designed for long-term learning and spiritual blessing.”

One of the remarkable successes of this partnership has been a focus on HIV/AIDS education at Africa University and throughout the nation that has dramatically raised awareness of the causes of the disease and helped stem its spread. “The BaltimoreWashington Conference has been involved with Africa University from the very beginning and still is,” Jim Salley, associate vice chancellor for institutional advancement, said. “That is a God-given gift to us. We can’t say thank you enough for being the church, not only in the U.S., but also in the world.”

For Bishop Marcus Matthews, episcopal leader of the Baltimore-

Washington Conference, whose ministry emphasizes education, living in the fullness of God often involves learning. As the vice chairperson of the board of directors for Africa University, he was excited about the potential the pastors’ school has to ripple throughout churches and communities, shaping the life of a nation.

“This is a spiritual thing for me,” said Bishop Matthews, “because every time I see the students, I see the face of Christ in them. Their stories … touch the heart. Many of them have lived lives that have been broken. But the university helps put them back together. This is a place of transformation – for the students and for the continent.”

—Adapted from a blog by Lauber, Baltimore-Washington Conference director of communications. She was part of the delegation that visited Zimbabwe.

How You Can Help Africa University continues to be the evidence of faith, hope and belief in the visions of dreamers. We are counting on you! Your church’s 100 percent apportionment remittance means 100 percent support of Africa University’s operational budget. Consider these additional ways of helping the university to educate new leaders for the nations of Africa: Planned Gifts – Planned gifts are the foundation for the long-term survival of Africa University. For many, a bequest offers an opportunity to make a more substantial charitable gift than would be possible during one’s lifetime.

As you make your estate plans, consider leaving a gift to Africa University in your will.

If you already have included Africa University in your estate plans, please let us know so we may welcome you to the Richard E. “Dick” Reeves Legacy Society.

Usahwira – This word in the Shona language means “a beautiful friendship.” Encourage your local church to become a partner with Africa University by supporting one student at the university for four years. The cost to support one student annually is $5,400.

Local churches may provide full or partial scholarships.

Endowment Fund – Give to the Africa University Endowment Fund (World Service Special Gift #03-01-88). The interest income from the endowment is used to provide scholarships for our students.

Africa University is supported by congregations and individuals across The United Methodist Church. Let’s work together to continue the transformation of lives and of Africa.

For more information, please contact:

Africa University Development Office

P.O. Box 340007 Nashville, TN 37203-0007 (615) 340-7438 (phone) (615) 340-7290 (fax) audevoffice@gbhem.org www.support-africauniversity.org

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Fall 2013

In this issue:

Now in its 21st year, Africa University is part of a crucial feeder system for nurturing a new generation of principled leaders.

Illinois Great Rivers Expands AU Scholarships

Hockessin UMC Supports Endowed Scholarships for AU Students

Sam Hodges Delaware congregation leads in contribution to endowed scholarships.

AU Graduate Serves as Church and Society Organizer in the Congo

Barbara Dunlap-Berg Ado Omakinda Odimba credits Africa University with providing foundation for a life of service.

Baltimore-Washington Annual Conference Shapes the Life of a Nation

Melissa Lauber Partnership with Zimbabwe United Methodists fosters mutual sharing.

The Halsteds’ Gift Keeps on Giving

Elaine Jenkins Seven pastors, to date, have obtained a theological education at AU, thanks to generous Michigan couple.

resumed her nursing career after their daughters became teenagers.

Since retiring and since Marceline’s death in 2005, Ted has continued to pursue his many interests.

He plays violin in the Richmond Community Orchestra; he is editor of the Friends Fellowship Community newsletter; he sings in the chancel choir at Central United Methodist Church in Richmond; he has traveled to Russia, Haiti, Sierra Leone and within the United States on mission projects; and he is the author of two books: Spring-Fed Waters: the Story of a Lake in Northern Michigan and Grandfather Tales of Lake Louise.

This past March, Ted traveled to Zimbabwe to attend the 20th anniversary celebration at Africa University. A special thrill for him was meeting the two current recipients of his and Marceline’s endowed scholarship.

“What a joy it is that we included Africa University in our estate plans!

Already our gift is a gift that keeps on giving!” Ted exclaimed.

Rev. A.Theodore (Ted) Halsted, Jr. and wife Marceline Halsted

­ Elaine Jenkins, — AU Development Office

Rev. A. Theodore (Ted) Halsted, Jr. and his wife Marceline became enthusiastic supporters of Africa University from its founding. In 1995, they endowed a scholarship in the Faculty of Theology, which has enabled seven pastors, to date, to obtain theological education.

“We wanted to have a part in the amazing turn to Christ taking place in Africa,” Ted said.

Ted was born in Kalamazoo, Mich., one of four children born to the Rev. Alfred T. and Florence Gorton Halsted. Ted earned his B.A. degree in English Literature from DePauw (Ind.) University in 1949.

Shortly after graduating, he was one of 50 missionary interns commissioned by the Methodist Board of Missions (predecessor to the General Board of Global Ministries) to serve in south India and Pakistan for three years.

It was in India that Ted and Marceline met and later became engaged.

Marceline grew up in South Charleston, W. Va., one of four children born to Paul and Frances Smith. She earned her B.A. degree from Morris Harvey College (now Charleston University) and her nursing degree from St. Frances Nursing School (W. Va.), with further preparation for missionary service at Hartford Seminary (Conn.). In India, she was superintendent of nursing at Methodist Hospital in Nadiad, Gujarat State, and was one of the founders of the Methodist School of Nursing in Nadiad.

Ted returned to the United States in 1952 to attend Yale Divinity School. He and Marceline married upon her return in 1953. Two daughters, Gwendolyn and Carolyn, were born of their marriage. The Halsted family also included at various times through the years a number of exchange students.

From 1956 until his retirement in 1992, Ted served pastoral appointments in the Detroit Annual Conference, including serving as district superintendent. Marceline Family Photo

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The Halsteds’ Gift That Keeps on Giving

Celebrating the Connection between Africa University and United Methodist Congregations 100 Percent Support

Thank you for supporting Africa University through your 100 percent remittance of the Africa University Fund apportionment in 2012. Jurisdiction Total Support and Annual Conferences with 100 percent or more in 2012 (includes 2011 performance)

North Central Jurisdiction 2012 2011 East Ohio 100% 100% Illinois Great Rivers 100% 100% Iowa 100.57% 100% Minnesota 100% 102.86% Northern Illinois 100% 100% West Michigan 100% West Ohio 100% 100% Wisconsin 169.31% 151.51%

Northeastern Jurisdiction Baltimore-Washington 100% 100% Greater New Jersey 104.69% 100% New England 100% 100% New York 100% 100% Susquehanna 100% Peninsula-Delaware 100% 100% Upper New York 100% 100% West Virginia 100% 112.46% Western Pennsylvania 100% 100%

South Central Jurisdiction Central Texas 100% Kansas West 100% Louisiana 100.03% 100.01% North Texas 100.50% Oklahoma Indian Missionary 100% 100.05% Southwest Texas 100%

100% 100.02% 100% 100%

Southeastern Jurisdiction Florida 100% 100% Holston 100% 100% North Carolina 100% 100% North Georgia 113.58% Red Bird Missionary 100% 100.06% Tennessee 100% Western Jurisdiction Alaska United Methodist Desert Southwest

As Africa University celebrates 20 years of realized dreams, we look forward to your full support in 2013.

• Africa University is located in Old Mutare, Zimbabwe, and is the first fully accredited United Methodist–related educational institution on the African continent, established by action of the General Conference.

• Africa University offers bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in six faculties of learning: agriculture and natural resources, education, health sciences, humanities and social sciences, management and administration and theology. The Institute of Peace, Leadership and Governance offers postgraduate diplomas and master’s programs.

prayer, presence, apportionments and special giving. More than 4,700 graduates have been sent into the world from Africa University.”

Illinois Great Rivers already has in place four endowed scholarships that support undergraduate students. It also provides direct annual support to two graduate students enrolled in the Institute of Peace, Leadership and Governance.

At the completion of the campaign, the conference will provide access to higher education for at least 10 undergraduate and two graduate students.

With 12 scholarships endowed, the gifts invested today by churches and individuals in the conference will make dreams possible in perpetuity.

For years, Illinois Great Rivers has had a strong commitment of supporting Africa University.

Many people have been involved in seeing the dream become a reality through personal commitment, monetary contributions, building-projects support and fundraising for direct and endowed scholarship support for Pan-African students.

In 2012, Illinois Great Rivers was one of 27 annual conferences that paid 100 percent of its apportioned share of funding to Africa University.

Fall 2013

—Adapted from “The Acacia” newsletter and the Illinois Great Rivers Annual Conference website

Africa University considers the former Central and Southern Illinois conferences as founding partners for fundraising for the Bridge to Dreams in honor of Bishop Woodie W. White, the Richard Reeves Wesley Foundation and a maintenance building for the Africa University farm.

Enrollment at Africa University is at an all-time high.

The current enrollment of 2,000 represents students from 29 countries. However, this growth also means raising additional funds to assist students.

New programs are emerging, helping Africa University to grow and remain relevant to community needs across the continent. The new graduate programs in Child and Family Studies and Public Policy and Governance are making significant inroads as graduates return to their home countries to address a myriad of issues.

Now in its 21st year, Africa University is part of a crucial feeder system for nurturing a new generation of principled leaders in Africa.

‘The work of God’

Illinois Great Rivers Expands AU Scholarships

Richard Straub, conference AU committee chairperson (left), and Bishop Jonathan Keaton (right) with AU student, Ivan Milosi.

T

he Illinois Great Rivers Annual Conference is expanding its “Making Dreams Possible” scholarships campaign for Africa University.

Launched in 2012, the campaign had an initial target of $250,000 for immediate scholarship needs. In June, the conference quadrupled its campaign goal to $1 million over the next four years. The conference aims to fund eight new endowed scholarships for students through this expanded effort.

The move from immediate to endowed scholarships allows the conference to do even more for the university in a prudent, sustainable manner, according to Richard Straub, who heads the conference’s Africa University Committee. Bishop Jonathan D. Keaton, resident bishop of the conference, said, “Our denomination has built Africa University through

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