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The Magazine of Northwest Christian University Summer 2017

Bulletin THE BEACON

Beacons Go Global

Congratulations Spring Class of 2017 Âˇ Sports Review

The Beacon Bulletin President Joseph D. Womack '89, Ed.D.

President’s Corner

Vice President for Academic Affairs Dennis Lindsay, D. Theol. Vice President for Advancement Keith Potter ’84, D.D. ’11 Vice President for Finance & Administration Gene DeYoung, M.B.A Vice President for Student Development & Enrollment Michael Fuller, M.A. Administrative Support Jennifer Box Rachel Morse Editor Pat Walsh Sr. Director of Marketing & Communications Contributors Nick Askew Tomas Carradero Austin Dame ‘17 Angela Doty '00, M.A. '07 Corynn Gilbert, M.Ed. Marya Gogoleva ‘17 Glenda Gordon Jeremiah Leslie Stacey Lewis, M.B.A Addison (Vail) Nay ‘17 Kathryn Noel Keith Potter ’84, D.D.’11 McKenzie (Hinson) Wirth ‘17

The Beacon Bulletin is published by Northwest Christian University as an information service and is posted on the NCU website. For information, call 541-684-7318. Readers are encouraged to submit text for publication to the Office of Advancement, attention Pat Walsh. Email: pwalsh@nwcu.edu, or Mail to: 828 E. 11th Ave. Eugene, OR 97401-7345 NCU reserves the right to edit all copy. Articles should include names and class years (if applicable) for all pictured.

Students from the University of Macau’s Shiu Pong College (China) attended NCU’s American Culture and Language Program over the summer. It was the third summer the University of Macau sent students to NCU to participate in the program. NCU students Colby Hanson '17 (top center), Gabrielle Herron (top right) and Zoe Herron (middle center) were three campus ambassadors working with the students. During May several students attended the University of Macau’s Shiu Pong College as exchange students.

Contents Academic News Commencement University News

Feature

4 8 13

Bringing the World to Campus Beacons Abroad Summer Missions

Beacon News Student-Athletes Hall of Fame Inductees Sports Brief

Alumni News

Germany Trip Alumni Notes Scholarship Success

Evening of Tribute

In Memoriam

Upcoming Events

Please Join Us

NCU was founded in a spirit of missionary service as the western United States took form. Throughout our history, we’ve poured energy and committed graduates into the formation of faith communities at home and around the globe. In our last edition of The Beacon Bulletin, we celebrated Beacons who are shaping the local Eugene/Springfield community in unique positions of influence. This edition celebrates the international reach of our university and alumni. From our earliest days, many of our students were educated and inspired toward the mission field. As the college grew into the mid1900s, we sent missionaries to almost every continent. Some broke new ground by sharing the gospel with previously unreached people groups. Others committed lifelong careers to the translation of the Bible into languages previously not exposed to God’s word. Many don’t know that one of our most famous missionaries and professors—Dr. Donald McGavran—founded the Institute for Church Growth at NCU before shifting his enterprises to Fuller Seminary’s School of World Mission in Pasadena. A considerable number of our alumni currently serve as missionaries at strategic points around the globe. That being said, we believe that all disciples are missionaries within the cultures where they live and work. Our students are prepared for a life of mission, exercised in every vocation and any community. Regardless of major or intended career, the University holds close to its mission of educating students to view their calling and profession through a biblical lens. Specifically, however, we remain committed to the work of inspiring students to consider how the Lord might use their gifts and talents in cross-cultural settings. Through their experience at NCU, they are challenged to understand what it means to reflect the light of Christ to the world no matter where in the world God leads them. As you read on, you’ll learn more about short-term student mission trips, and educational opportunities in other countries. You’ll read about where recent graduates are making a difference on the global frontier. And you’ll meet new faculty members who come to campus from fascinating places, like Agam Iheanyi-Igwe, Ph.D. A native of Nigeria, Dr. Agam (he allows us to use his first name) begins teaching Bible and Christian Ministry on campus this Fall. He’ll also help shape plans for a center for world Christianity. Wherever I go, alumni ask, “Are we still training and sending missionaries?” The answer has always been “yes”. Today, I offer you an emphatic “yes”. God willing, we always will. Blessings,

Joseph D. Womack, president Summer 2017

The Beacon Bulletin | Summer 2017

Spring Commencement

Congratulations Graduates! Bachelor of Arts

Northwest Christian University Graduates Record Class Northwest Christian University graduated the largest spring class in its history when the Board of Trustees conferred degrees for 174 graduates (76 graduate degrees and 98 undergraduate degrees) during the University’s 118th commencement ceremony on Sat., May 6, 2017, in the Morse Event Center. Pastor Joe Wittwer ’73, pastor of Life Center in Spokane, Washington, was the commencement speaker. Beginning his career in Eugene, Oregon, as a youth pastor at Westside Church of Christ and then Faith Center, Pastor Wittwer has served as the Lead Pastor at Life Center in Spokane since 1978. Wittwer has served as the Divisional Superintendent and District Supervisor of Foursquare Churches in his region. For his many years of exemplary leadership and service, Wittwer received an Honorary Doctorate of Divinity from Northwest Christian University’s Board of Trustees.

Blessing of the Hands: Caring is the Heart of Nursing Prior to graduation, the Blessing of the Hands ceremony was held in the Evans Chapel. During this ceremony, graduating RN to BSN students and other nurses in attendance were invited to have their hands blessed with a special blend of oils created for the blessing. “Caring is at the heart of nursing,” said Dr. Linda Veltri, Associate Professor and Director of NCU’s RN to BSN program. “Blessing the hands of our graduates and other nurses, who daily use their hands to convey caring, serves as a reminder of the art and spiritual heritage of the profession.”

Summer 2017 | The Beacon Bulletin

Madison Lynn Allen Calvin David Anderson *** Alegra Marie Aviña Samuel A. Brackett David Andrew Carrasco Kelsey Chaloupka *** Amanda Danielle Coburn *** Chloe Alyse Combs Tierra Rage Davis Samara Elizabeth Eilert ** Meghan S. Fletcher ** Michael Scott Fletcher Amanda Leigh Flores ** Colby Tyler Hanson ** Lori Hawley Lyndsey Ariel Heikes *** Steven Lee Holley, Jr. ** Tod M. Ireland Jonathan C. Jury ** Katelyn Marie Keeth *** Chelsea Lyn King * Natalie W. Kogutkiewicz *** Joseph L. Laurendeau Michele Londo Delaney Paige McMahon *** Leslie Dawn Moore ** Kayla Ann Morgan Juliet Victoria Mullen ** Blake Martin Owens Sherry M. Reeder ** Samantha A. Russell Victoria Elizabeth Sanne Giselle Pauline Schneider Delia Shay * Greta Jayne Siecinski Alonzo S. Staten Chelsea M Stone Nathaniel Alan Sutherland Chelsea Ann Taylor * Whitney Ward ** Peggy Sue Wiederkehr **

Bachelor of Science Leadi Aminou Madeline C. Bartholomew Hinako N. Blackwell ** Amanda Michelle Borrelli Bryce Nicole Branagan-Franco * Daniel Roger Brock * Sierra Rachelle Brown Taylor Chandler Burnett Demarea D. Caples Nicole Elizabeth Cogburn **

Bruce G. Curtis Ann M. Campbell Austin Neal Dame ** Michelle Andrea Chaves Trevyn Reinhardt DuBois ** Nicole Coover Michelle R. Fletcher *** Lezlee Craven Kristin Fulbright Amy Myleen Davis Macie Elizabeth Gale * Amanda Christine Cody Albert Gardner Dickerson Lacie Monique Geiszler *** Schyler James Marya D. Gogoleva * Dickerson John M. Hackman *** Amy Elizabeth Dummer Jenny Darlene Hanks Whitney Ann Elkington Garrett Bruce Hanna Crystal Lynn Falk Alleya Matsue Joy Harris *** Aaron Farrier William Lewis Helmer Mayra Alejandra Garcia Jeni Hoffert LaChelle T. Garza Sarah Elizabeth Hooker * Julia Sarah Gould Morgan Emma Horn Jennifer L. Graham Joceline Howard ** Kelsee Lyn Graves Marina Anastasia Irish *** Mindy Gray Ashley Nicole Jackson Marilyn Sara Haber Breann Ashley Latta Amanda N. Haga Katarina Bethany Maciel *** Shelly D Haig Hanna M. Mack ** Amber Lynn Harding Sergio Antonio Maldonado Timothy E. Hauck Tonya F. McHaffie Jessica Ciara Hawe Ana Ortiz Moreno Lori C. Haymore Madeleine Nelson *** Carissa Nicole Hoffman Jacelyn Fumiko Neumann ** Kristina Huffman Kruger Siria Emilce Ochoa Nicholas Arthur La Barre Wendy Renee Olsen Bradley Joseph Laubacher Adrian Palacios Miah King Long Cheri L. Payne ** Corina L Maher Joseph W. Piper Ellen Maurer Steven Robert Ray Victoria Ann MollisonEmily Noel Sanders Heater Miranda Lyn Saultz Guadalupe Mora Lindy Mitchell Smith *** Sarah K. McCloud Amron Stevens * Desiree McIvor Emily Ann Sutherland Julie Ann Nole Shea Rose Vallaire Lisa Marie Oland Tyler J Vanderho Samantha Lorraine Orme Lilliana Chaves Varela *** Josh R. Paiement Katherine Elizabeth Ruth Walker * Haley Partridge Cidnee M. White Nathan Jerome Rheuban Jasmine Nique White Marquia Marie Rivers Alexis Huntyr Wilks ** Rebecca G. Robinson Cassidy J. Winters ** Jessica J Shafer Joel Arthur Smith Shannon Jensen Smyth Master of Arts Jennifer S. Staten Jeanette Aguirre Elizabeth Steeb Tifany Joy Allison Rose Steelman Leah C. Barber Kimberly Summerhays-Morgan Kara Lynne Bastien Bonnie T. Temple Nikki Bevans Brian Nicholas Vogel

PLEASE DON’T MAKE US GOOGLE YOU Keep in touch with NCU and help us save on paper and postage. Send us a quick note if you’ve moved, changed email addresses, or simply want to share some good news! www.nwcu.edu/alumniupdate

Scholastic Awards * ** ***

Cum Laude 3.50-3.69 GPA Magna Cum Laude 3.70-3.89 GPA Summa Cum Laude 3.90-4.00 GPA

David Irving Wadsworth Renee Michelle Walters Mark E. Watt Nicole Renee Wingfield

Master of Business Administration Antonio Avitia Zachary Edward Bahen Alysha Marie Barraza Denise Anne Barrett Brian Darrell Blaser Shari Lynn Burkhart Daniel Chavez Elizabeth Cunningham Nathan C. DeArman Kristina Marie Dysert Dena Nichelle Ferguson Peter Donald Lentz Erika N. Mayr Jillian Bo Stout Justin Wales

The Beacon Bulletin | Summer 2017

Spring Commencement

Students, Faculty and Staff Receive Awards Assistant Professor of Accounting Stacey Lewis, MBA, and Brian Mills, M.A., director of assessment and assistant professor of humanities, received the President’s Award for Excellence and Campus Leadership during Northwest Christian University’s 118th Commencement. “The President’s Award for Teaching Excellence and Campus Leadership honors the faculty member who is not only an excellent teacher but also a teacher who models the kind of leadership we strive every day to instill in our students,” said NCU’s President Joseph D. Womack, Ed.D. “Stacey Lewis is an outstanding faculty member. The NCU values of Wisdom, Faith and Service are at the core of every interaction she has with the students she teaches.” Since 2014, Lewis has taught accounting in NCU’s traditional undergraduate program and its adult degree completion program. She has taught full-time for five years and has more than 10 years experience as an adjunct professor, after working in public and private accounting.

“The President’s Award for Exemplary Staff Performance and Campus Leadership is awarded annually to the staff member who daily demonstrates the leadership qualities we expect our students to embrace,” said NCU President Dr. Joseph E. Womack, Ed.D. “Brian’s work on the accreditation self-study and preparation for the site visit by the accreditation team was significant and exemplary.” Mills chairs the accreditation program review committee to help the institution demonstrate all the ways NCU fulfills its calling as an institution of Christian higher education. He assists a variety of academic and administrative departments with mission alignment, effectiveness and compliance of academic and accreditation standards for the University’s regional accreditation by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). He also assists with a variety of assessment activities and accreditation requirements for professional programs.

Lewis earned an undergraduate degree and an MBA from Harding University.

As assistant professor of humanities, he teaches history, Bible, theology and ethics classes primarily for the School of Professional Studies. Included in this role is the program faculty oversight for the Interdisciplinary Studies (IDS) program.

Brian Mills, M.A., director of assessment and assistant professor of humanities, received the President’s Award for Exemplary Staff Performance and Campus Leadership.

Mills earned a bachelor’s degree from University of Oregon and a master’s degree from Westminster Seminary California.

Summer 2017 | The Beacon Bulletin

Student Award Winners Announced Seniors Michelle Fletcher '17, Lindsey Heikes '17, Kelsey Chaloupka '17 and Samara Eilert '17 (pictured below) received Northwest Christian University’s highest student honors for academic achievement and leadership during the 118th Commencement. Fletcher, Heikes and Chaloupka received the President’s Scholastic Award for the highest cumulative grade point average with at least 61 credit hours earned at NCU. Each graduated summa cum laude (3.90-4.0 GPA). Chaloupka graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English, Fletcher with a Bachelor of Science in biology, and Heikes with a Bachelor of Arts in teacher education. The NCU student body and faculty voted Eilert to receive the Kendall E. Burke Award for high scholastic standing, inspiration to students and faculty, high ideals of Christian character and contribution of talents to the NCU community. She graduated magna cum laude (3.70 to 3.89 GPA) with a Bachelor of Arts in teacher education. “On behalf of the faculty, staff and Board of Trustees, it is my privilege to congratulate these students on their achievements and thank them for their many contributions to the NCU community during their time on campus,” said NCU President Joseph E. Womack, Ed.D. “I am proud of all of our graduates. I look forward to learning about all of their future accomplishments so they can be shared with the next generation of NCU students as examples of how Wisdom, Faith and Service are integrated into the lives of our successful alumni.”

e r ’ u o Y d! e t i v n I HOMECOMING ALUMNI WEEKEND MARK YOUR CALENDAR & JOIN THE FESTIVITIES!

OCTOBER

thru

TWO THOUSAND AND SEVENTEEN

Beacons For Life! The NCU Alumni Association invites all alumni & their families to Homecoming Alumni Weekend 2017! • Young Alumni Night (Classes of 2012-2017) • “Celebrate NCU” Brunch & Alumni Awards + Kid’s Breakfast • Golden (50th) Anniversary Dinner & Reunion: Class of 1967 • 25th Anniversary Reception: Class of 1992 • 10th Anniversary Reception: Class of 2007 • Campus Tours • Family Carnival • Men’s & Women’s Soccer Matches • NCU Fall Music Concert Contact NCU’s Office of Alumni Relations at 541-684-7222 or alumni@nwcu.edu for more info. Detailed Event Schedule & Registration: www.nwcu.edu/ Homecoming2017

We hope to see you there! The Beacon Bulletin | Summer 2017

University News New Members Join Board of Trustees

NCU Launches Oregon’s Only Online Master of Science in Nursing Pat Turanski

Mat Sand ‘92

The Northwest Christian University Board of Trustees elected four new members to serve four year terms: Larry Coburn, Principal, Larry Coburn Consulting; Susan Soonkeum Cox, Vice President, Policy and External Affairs, Holt International; Mat Sand ’92, President, Trisand, Inc.; and Pat Turanski, Co-Founder/Owner, GloryBee. They replace five long-time trustees who have completed their terms: Jeff Miller, retired Vice President, Pacific Benefits Consultants; Gary Pierpoint (deceased), Vice President, Umpqua Bank; Bridget Baker Kincaid, Corporate Public Relations Director, RG Media Company; Ryan Lee, COO, CBT Nuggets; and Barbara Olson, retired Administrator, XL Hospice, Inc.

Susan Cox, D. Hum. ‘11

Larry Coburn

Executive Committee members include: Gary Jurden, Chair, Financial Advisor, Ameriprise Financial Services; Bob Hutchins ’65 & D. Hum. ’00, Vice Chair, Sr. Vice President, The Hutchins Group/ D.A. Davidson; Selene Petersen, CPA, Secretary, Henry Petersen Berry & Quigley, LLP; Clare Buhler ’00, At-Large, Sr. Pastor, Harrisburg Christian Church; Sandy Park, At-Large, Assistant Pastor of Renewal Ministries, First Baptist Church of Eugene; Judy Van Scholten, M.A.’94, At-Large, retired hospice administrator; Sid Voorhees, At-Large, Voorhees & Assoc.; and Clayton Walker, At-Large, Principal Broker, C.W. Walker & Assoc. Jeff Miller has been elected Trustee Emeritus, as was Gary Pierpoint before his death in July 2017.

Graduate Counseling Program Receives CACREP Accreditation Northwest Christian University’s Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling is now one of the five such institutions in Oregon to receive program accreditation from The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), a specialized accrediting body recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). “CACREP accreditation places NCU’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling master’s degree program among the best in the

Summer 2017 | The Beacon Bulletin

nation,” said Dennis Lindsay, Dr. Theol., Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of the Faculty at NCU. “This important accreditation confirms the academic and professional excellence of NCU’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling faculty and the curriculum they teach to our master’s degree students.”

Dennis Lindsay, Dr. Theol., Vice President for Academic Affairs

What CACREP accreditation means to prospective and current students is that the content and quality of the NCU’s M.A. in Clinical Mental Health continued on page 12

RN to BSN Receives Prestigious Accreditation The Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities has approved Northwest Christian University’s new online Master of Science in Nursing. NCU is recruiting students to enroll in the new program when classes begin in January 2018. “NCU’s Master of Science in Nursing with a concentration in Nurse Leadership in Health Systems is a workforce development response to the educational and healthcare needs of our communities,” said Joseph D. Womack, Ed.D., President of Northwest Christian University. “We are pleased to provide this opportunity to integrate faith and learning in our new MSN.”

RN to BSN program as well as from nurses throughout the region,” said Linda Veltri, Ph.D., R.N., Associate Professor and RN to BSN Nursing Program Director. “NCU prepares ethical nurse leaders to lead the way toward continuous improvement in evidence-based healthcare within their complex workplace as well as local and global communities.”

interest by assessing and identifying programs that engage in effective educational practices. As a voluntary, self-regulatory process, CCNE accreditation supports and encourages continuing self-assessment by nursing programs and supports continuing growth and improvement of collegiate professional education and entry-topractice nurse residency programs.

NCU joins Oregon Health Sciences University and University of Portland as the only academic institutions in the state to offer an MSN degree. NCU’s program is the only program offered exclusively online. With the announcement of the MSN, NCU’s nursing program has built momentum and recognition throughout the state and nationally.

In addition, NCU recently signed an articulation agreement with Sumner College (Portland, Ore.) that creates an opportunity for graduates of the college’s Associate Degree Nursing program to enroll in NCU’s Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program.

NCU’s online MSN is a 31 credit program strategically designed to meet rigorous standards that can be completed in 18-months. Students can be admitted with a bachelor’s degree earned from an accredited four-year college or university, a minimum 3.0 grade point average, and an unencumbered Registered Nurse license. Online classes begin every eight weeks.

The RN to BSN program has recently been accredited by the prestigious Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), an autonomous accrediting agency contributing to the improvement of the public's health by ensuring the quality and integrity of baccalaureate, graduate and residency programs in nursing.

“NCU has had strong interest in an MSN from recent graduates of its

According to its website, the Commission serves the public

NCU’s RN to BSN program was founded in partnership with PeaceHealth in fall 2015 to offer a regionally accredited program designed for recent graduates of registered nursing programs and more experienced registered nurses who want to earn a bachelor of nursing degree. NCU has similar articulation agreements with Lane Community College, Linn-Benton Community College, Samaritan Health Services and Sumner College.

The Beacon Bulletin | Summer 2017

University News

Faculty and Staff Share Their Knowledge Northwest Christian University’s faculty and staff focus their day-to day energy on providing students with the best of education, and experiences, but they also share their knowledge and expertise beyond the campus. Whether it is through academic research, presentations, papers, articles and books or serving on a local school board, NCU’s faculty and staff are the campus bridge to the community and broader academic world to share our commitment to Wisdom, Faith and Service. What follows is just a small sample of the many contributions faculty and staff made to their community and their area of study during the recent academic year: Nick Askew, sports information director, was named the Cascade Collegiate Conference Sports Information Director of the Year. The annual award is voted on by the SIDs in the conference.

Peter Diffenderfer, Ph.D. and Timothy Veach, Ph.D., co-presented their case study “Cultivating Global Leadership Skills Through Cultural Exchange” at the IABCE Pacific NW Regional Conference in Spokane. Angela Doty ’00, M.A. ‘07, GCDF, received the Esther Matthews Award from the Oregon Career Development Association, presented to an individual who has demonstrated lifelong leadership, scholarship and professional commitment to student career development.

Summer 2017 | The Beacon Bulletin

Dennis R. Lindsay, Dr.Theol., Bible, Theology & Mission, contributed a chapter to a major volume on “The Understanding of Faith in Early Christianity and its Jewish and Hellenistic-Roman Environment.” This 900+ page volume, published in Germany, represents a comprehensive approach to the New Testament concept of faith and features the work of a number of recognized international scholars. Lindsay’s contribution focuses on the concept of faith in the writings of the Jewish historian, Flavius Josephus, who was a contemporary of most of the New Testament authors. Lindsay also presented a paper on this topic at a Colloquium of the University of Tuebingen, Germany this past summer.

Marilyn Montgomery, Ph.D., Education & Counseling, authored an article published in Child Development with three colleagues based on their research. The article is entitled “Empowering Marginalized Youth: A SelfTransformative Intervention for Promoting Positive Youth Development.”

Ryan Melton, Ph.D., Education & Counseling, presented a TEDx Talk and actively engaged in several research projects. With two colleagues, they recently completed research concerning the developmentally appropriate mental health services for adolescents and adults with early onset psychotic disorders.

Timothy Rogers, M.Ed. ‘17, Arts & Sciences, is a member of the Creswell, Oregon School Board and attended the Oregon School Board Association’s Leadership Institute.

Beacons Shine Faith & Culture Across Oceans and Campus In late June and early July, 11 students from the University of Macau’s Shiu Pong College (China) attended NCU’s American Culture and Language Program. Macau is in Eastern Asia, on the South China Sea. It is a Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China. “This was the third year students from the University of Macau have come to NCU to study and experience American culture,” said Tim Veach, Ph.D., an associate professor of business and director of NCU’s American Culture & Language Program. “The visiting students lived in NCU dorms, dined in the cafeteria, took classes in English, toured the region and experienced American culture with NCU students, faculty, staff and their host families.” Veach says the University of Macau and NCU value similar objectives for global academic outreach. “Coming to summer school at NCU allowed me to make new friends, practice my American English and share my culture, while learning more about America,” said Liu Wanlin, known as Beckham, who is a 19-year old freshman electrical and computer engineering student from Chonqqing, a city of eight million people located on China’s mainland. “NCU students are friendly. I liked studying, traveling and socializing with them.”

Lauren Riley, M.A., academic advisor and off-campus study programs coordinator says foreign study can be an important opportunity for students to deepen their understanding of the world and themselves. “Study abroad helps a student to develop a global perspective that...changes and rewires your brain to become more flexible and adaptable." NCU has had a long-time relationship with Dankook University near Seoul, South Korea. Several NCU students travel to attend Dankook each school year to teach English and enroll in two three-credit classes. As an added incentive, NCU students receive a $1,000 stipend from Dankook University after they complete the English language teaching assignment. In addition, the NCU campus further benefits from the Dankook University relationship when students from the institution enroll at NCU for a term. During the 2016-2017 academic year, NCU hosted two students from Dankook Unversity who studied on campus and are expecting several students from the university to arrive on campus this fall.

Terry O’Casey, D. Min., Bible Theology & Mission, presented “The Church at Ephesus: A Sociological Examination” to the Oregon Christian Convention.

continued on page 12

Exchange with Dankook University Creates Cultural Understanding

Recently, NCU students have also studied in Australia, China, Costa Rica, England, France, Italy and Uganda.

NCU Students Study in Europe

Leong Ho Ieng, who goes by Chloe, was one of the student leaders from the University of Macau. The 20-year old English education major, who grew up in Macau, said, “I like NCU. I learned valuable leadership skills and improved my American English and understanding of the United States.” One highlight was an overnight cabin stay in the mountains, where the students participated in leadership workshops with Veach and NCU Business Professor Pete Diffenderfer, Ph.D. Music Professor and Assistant Program Director Addison Wong led the group in song. In addition, University of Macau students spent a weekend with a several NCU families.

Twenty Northwest Christian University students returned from Rome, Italy, in early June after a 26-day study abroad experience that took them through history, from the catacombs to the renaissance. Students took two classes during the trip that were taught by NCU Associate Professor Brian Kaelin, Ed.D. and Assistant Professor Stacey Lewis, M.B.A. Rome, Florence, Venice, and Paris served as the classroom as the students learned and experienced history, literature, music, art and church history in the places where much of culture, faith and government were originally formed. “One of the purposes for studying abroad is for students to continued on page 12

The Beacon Bulletin | Summer 2017

THE INTERNATIONAL ISSUE

University News continued from BEACONS SHINE, pg. 11

continued from CACREP, pg. 8

expand their worldview, as they live and learn within a different cultural context. It is our hope that students developed an appreciation for the people they encountered, and deepened their sense of self and vocational calling,” Kaelin said. “Studying abroad is an important component of a well-rounded Christian liberal arts education.”

Counseling has been carefully evaluated and meets stringent standards set by the profession. Students can be assured that appropriate knowledge and skill areas are the basis for a high-quality curriculum and that the program is stable, professionally and financially.

Professor Brings The World To Campus But through his involvement in a campus fellowship, he felt his call toward ministry and met his wife Oge (pronounced “Ogay"), who was planning to be a missionary. Initially, Agam asked God, “Can we do ministry later? Can’t I try out my engineering degree for at least a while?” But God’s answer was pastoral ministry in a village, followed by more training at Talbot School of Theology in La Mirada, CA. While moving his family to the United States, earning masters and doctoral degrees and teaching, his intercultural bent stretched to a new level—Agam pastored two Korean American churches for nine years. “For a Nigerian teaching from the Bible in the United States among Koreans and Korean-Americans, it was a unique cultural immersion parsing biblical themes and applying them to different cultural contexts.”

continued from FACULTY & STAFF, pg. 10

Steve Silver, ’87, M.L.S and M. Mus., Library, is president-elect of the Oregon Chapter of the Association of College and Research Libraries/ Academic Division of the Oregon Library Association

Stacey Lewis, MBA, Accounting, and Nani Skaggs, Ph.D., Arts & Sciences, attended and presented original research at the 2017 NETVUE Conference-Renewing The Theological Exploration of Vocation. The presentation was entitled “Calling and Search for Meaningful Work in Students Through Christian Higher Education.” Doyle Srader, Ph.D., Arts & Sciences, had a column entitled “ Why Former Debaters are the Best College Professors” published in the NSDA Rostrum, the magazine of the National Speech and Debate Association.

Summer 2017 | The Beacon Bulletin

James Watson, Ph.D., Arts & Sciences, directed a short film for Cancer Treatment Centers of America on the life story and motivations of a cancer doctor who had died of leukemia. Linda Veltri, Ph.D., RN, Nursing, is researching and writing chapters for a book in progress about curriculum as well as family health care nursing. She is also the board secretary of the Perinatal Rescue Network. “I am proud of the work and contributions all of our faculty and staff make to the campus, their professions, and their respective areas of study,” said Dennis Lindsay, D.Theol., Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dean of Faculty, and Professor, Biblical Studies. “Research, presentations and other scholarly work enhances the NCU experience for our students, but teaching in the classroom and building relationships with students is the most important academic activity we all engage in on our campus.”

Agam is thrilled to come to NCU. “It’s encouraging to know NCU’s missionary heritage and its commitment to mission. The excitement and encouragement from Dr. Lindsay [VP for Academic Affairs] and President Womack told me that these people are passionate about the kingdom and the global sense of what God is doing. I just love that.”

Dr. Lindsay recognized the strong work the faculty and staff invested in the accreditation process that was spearheaded by Dr. Marilyn Montgomery, Professor of Counseling and by Dr. Gene James. “Drs. James and Montgomery, with the faculty and staff, did a truly amazing job completing the self-study and preparing for the site visit by the accreditation team,” he said. “The positive comments from the accreditation team were well-deserved.” CACREP has accredited NCU’s Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling through March 2025.

After starting online classes, Agam notes, “All students wrote self-introductions. I was hearing young people who are passionate about God’s purposes, some three generations deep in mission work.”

On July 1st, NCU welcomed Agam (Agametochukwu) Iheanyi-Igwe, Ph.D. to our faculty. Dr. Agam’s childhood, training and work experience uniquely prepare him to teach Bible and develop a center for world Christianity. Dr. Agam (pronounced “AG-um”) grew up in a Christian family of seven children in Enugu, a city in southeast Nigeria. His father was a university administrator and pastor, and his siblings are now spread over four continents. “When I pray in the morning for family alone, I’m praying for people all over the world. I love to help students see what God is doing beyond the places we’ve been.”

As for hobbies, Dr. Agam loves “goofing around” with their four children. He sings and plays guitar and keyboard. He used to be part of an a capella group that later went professional. And he loves reading. “C.S. Lewis has been very influential. I like to read Screwtape Letters once a year for its profound insight into human nature. I’ve also been influenced by John Stott [Anglican theologian and author]. If it weren’t a vocation, teaching would be my favorite hobby…something I do for fun.”

Dr. Agam attended Federal University of Technology Owerri in Nigeria, with plans of being an electrical engineer.

The Beacon Bulletin | Summer 2017

THE INTERNATIONAL ISSUE

Beacons Abroad Matt ‘92 and Jan ’92 King serve as dormitory parents at Rift Valley Academy in Kijabe, Kenya. RVA is a Christian boarding school serving about 500 missionary children representing 30 nationalities and 80 mission organizations and churches as well as a small number of Kenyan national students and expatriate, non-mission students. As a branch of Africa Inland Mission, RVA exists to see Christ-centered churches established and thriving among all of Africa’s peoples. The Kings have worked at RVA for 20-years

Mission Trips: Students Return With a World That is Bigger and Smaller (Editor’s note: What follows is an excerpt from a talk Jennifer Little, M.A., NCU’s Resident Director and Coordinator for Campus Ministry, gave to mission supporters about how mission trips connect us all to each other.)

Kenya

Austin Dame ’17, expects to leave in early 2018 for Nairobi, Kenya, to serve with CMF International, a global mission team serving in 25 countries to create Christ-centered communities that transform the world. While he is ready for any assignment, Dame hopes to serve with Mission of Hope International’s Big Dent program that provides micro-financing to impoverished families to develop and maintain their own small businesses while receiving Christian training and support. Dame graduated with a bachelor’s degree in business administration.

China Hans ’16 and Grace (Bowling) ’15 Coburn arrived in Shanghai, China, in June 2017 to teach English for the next year. They are working with EF English First, a division of EF Education First, the world’s leading privately owned education company. Founded in 1965, EF operates in more than 50 countries around the world.

Summer 2017 | The Beacon Bulletin

was happening before we arrived and will keep going on after we leave. Incidentally, this is true here in Eugene, and in Grant’s Pass, and Roseburg, and Seattle. Something bigger than us is happening in our neighborhoods and our schools and maybe even our government. C.S. Lewis once said, “We may ignore, but we can nowhere evade the presence of God. The world is crowded with Him. He walks everywhere, incognito.”

Short-term mission trips are really a unique thing. It’s hard for one person to make a long-term impact in two or three weeks. That is part of the reason it’s so important for our missions program to connect with organizations and ministries that are already rooted in their communities, plugged in to the real needs of those they serve and committed to sticking around for the long haul.

One of my hopes for each person who goes on a mission trip with NCU is that he or she will return home with a world that is both smaller and bigger. On the one hand, I hope that conversations and time spent with women rescued from sex trafficking, children pulled out of poverty, and people recovering from cocaine addiction all help us realize that we’re not all as different as we once thought. We all smile and hug and cry and in the same language. There’s something that connects us all to each other, and it’s that incognito presence of God in each one.

That opens the door for us to come for a short time and know that the work we’re doing is part of something larger. It

On the other hand, I hope each of our worlds get bigger. Somewhere, on a 25-hour flight from here, dangerous

rescue missions are happening on a scale that is unfathomable to our upper middle class comfortable lives. If we haven’t seen it with our own eyes, all we can picture is our tiny world filled with Starbucks, homework and Netflix. But after you’ve walked through dusty streets in your third-oldest pair of Nikes and seen and touched the destitution of entire communities who have never owned a pair of shoes, your perspective on life is altered in a way nothing else can accomplish. Each year, students are embarking on this kind of experience. Some will be getting on an airplane for the first time in their lives. Some will be going back to rekindle some relationships they built on their last trip. All of them will experience something new that would not have happened if they had decided to stay in their comfortable dorm rooms at NCU. Our theme this year is “light of the world.” It evokes images of serene lighthouses and adorable children singing “this little light of mine.” We live into these images as NCU Beacons. But I think anyone who has participated in a candlelight Christmas Eve

service can testify that sometimes being a light isn’t only about singing Silent Night in four part harmony. Sometimes it’s about maintaining some amount of decorum as molten wax runs down your hand. Victor Frankl said, “What is to give light must endure burning.” There’s a cost that exceeds the international airplane tickets to Cambodia and van rentals and fifty pound bags of rice and beans. An experience like this stretches you out in so many different directions that when you return, you don’t fit into all the same places in the same ways anymore. Parts of your perspectives and values and priorities have been burned away. These students are going to need your help with this cost, as well. They’re going to need time and space and a listening ear. They’re going to be processing grief and joy and discomfort and transition and figuring out how to be a new person when everything else at home has stayed the same. Ready or not, many of you are taking this trip with us. Thank you for having the courage to send the people you love into this new way of seeing, and into the burning that continued on page 16

The Beacon Bulletin | Summer 2017

THE INTERNATIONAL ISSUE continued from MISSION, pg. 15

comes from being a light in this world. There’s a proverb that says, “Those who are generous are blessed, for they share their bread with the poor.” In a really cool way, we

get to be more generous because of your generosity. One of you will write a $100 check on your way out the door. Do you know how many pounds of rice and beans you can buy with $100 in Mexico?

Beacon News My team will get to spend an entire afternoon handing out Ziplocs of beans and rice to as many families as we can find in Alamar, one of the poorest neighborhoods in Tijuana. We get to experience the blessing of generosity

firsthand. I hope that this evening has helped you at least taste the blessing and impact your generosity will have all over the world. We are grateful for you. And we couldn’t do this without you.

SUMMER MISSION WORK IS IN NCU’s DNA For decades, many NCU students have passed up vacations to invest part of their summers in helping others by serving with faculty and staff alongside churches, non-profits and mission organizations locally and abroad. NCU students participate in building Christ-centered relationships around the world. Past mission trips include: Bosnia, Chile, Congo, Israel, Kenya, Mozambique, New Orleans (after Hurricane Katrina), San Francisco, Tijuana, and Cambodia. During summer 2017, NCU students visited orphanages, rehab centers and hospices in Tijuana, Mexico. Another student team partnered with Agape International Missions (AIM) to combat human trafficking in Cambodia. A third student team joined with Forward Edge International to work in Managua, Nicaragua, at a local school and with girls living at the Villa Esperanza who had been rescued from living in a garbage dump and subject to rape, drug abuse and disease. Three NCU students offer a perspective on their summer 2017 missions:

Nicaragua ‘17

“I learned that to love on people, we don’t need to speak the same language. I speak almost zero Spanish, yet I experienced so much love from the kids at the school and the girls at the Villa.” --- Myranda Johnson, Senior, Interdisciplinary Studies

Cambodia ‘17

Mexico ‘17 “I think what makes this trip so special is that it is based on relational ministry. That means we are there to meet with people, as well as comfort them and pray for them. We fed the homeless, shared testimonies to people in rehabs and encouraged kids in very poor communities.” --- Tomas Carradero, Senior, Business Administration

Summer 2017 | The Beacon Bulletin

“God showed me my own weaknesses after going to Cambodia. It made me think of how weak my flesh is and how strong my spirit can be. It also made me convicted; feeling that I must be weak, if I serve more, love more, and am more willing to share Jesus in a country across the world, than in my own neighborhood or even my own home.” --- Morgan Horn ’17, Teacher Education

STUDENT-ATHLETES IMPACTING THE WORLD NCU’s legacy of service in foreign countries has been at its heart for decades and student-athletes have become a huge part of those efforts in recent years. Here are just a few examples of how the Beacons are becoming truly international beacons for Christ.

Jonni ByrneKibambazi ‘10 (Softball) Jonni and her husband Fahamu are in DR Congo, working with Youth With a Mission (YWAM). Their ministry’s goal is to bring hope back to a country who has lost their hope through Bible studies, sport ministries, leadership training and fellowship. “We are just trying to help people know they aren’t forgotten and that they are loved,” said Kibambazi. “We are trying to show the community how great the Lord is.” Jonni met Fahamu while on a short-term mission with YWAM in Rwanda when he was the translator for her team.

Justin Ahrens ‘10 (Golf) and Cassie BishopAhrens ‘11 (Softball and Volleyball) Justin and Cassie have recently returned home after an extended period in the United Arab Emirates. They both worked as teachers at the Glenelg School of Abu Dhabi and Cassie also taught at the Bradenton Preparatory Academy in Dubai. Heavily involved in CrossFit, Justin also assisted in the opening of two different facilities: CrossFit The Burn Room and CrossFit Metalize in Dubai. He stayed on as a manager and coach at CrossFit Metalize. Justin and Cassie recently returned to Eugene where Justin is opening up TreeLine CrossFit gym in the Eugene/ Springfield area early this fall. Cassie is an elementary school teacher.

Jordan Buhler ‘16 (Men’s Basketball) Jordan recently returned after a 4 ½ month stint playing basketball for the Chisinau Admirals Elite, a first division International Basketball Federation team in Moldova, an Eastern European country currently caught in a tug-o-war between Russia and the European Union. He also trained younger teams with the Admirals Basketball Academy and was a referee for the U-14 National Tournament. Buhler also led weekly Bible studies with his elite team and the high school team and was an American representative with the US Embassy, speaking at local events and festivals in Chisinau, the nation’s capital. Buhler said, “Sports is a huge way that Jesus works in other countries and I was honored to be a part of that process.” Buhler will start a master’s degree at NCU this fall.

Ryan Herriage ’14 / MBA ‘15 (Men’s Soccer) Ryan lives in Changsha, China in the Hunan province where he works at a school and an after-school English education program. Teaching primary school students between the ages of 4-12, Ryan teaches English and also teaches classes on western culture and western holidays.

Nick Sullivan ‘16 (Men’s Basketball) Nick recently completed a stint coaching with the United States Basketball Academy in China, a connection made through NCU assistant coaches Fred Litzenberger and Mark McCann

who are heavily involved with the USBA both stateside and abroad. Sullivan worked with kids from ages 6-16 on fundamentals of basketball. His time in China inspired Sullivan to see more of the world and he is traveling for the next 12 months through Europe, India and Southeast Asia. He said, “After my six months in China, I developed a passion that turned into a dream to travel. I want to experience different cultures, meet new people and challenge my views. I am blessed to have such a great opportunity and I am making the most of it."

Omar Richards ’16 (Men’s Basketball) The former Cascade Conference Defensive Player of the Year completed his first year playing for Soles de Mexicali in the LNBP, the top professional league in Mexico. He was named the LNBP Rookie of the Year after a successful campaign leading his team to the championship finals. He is also currently playing for the Aguilas Doradas Golden Eagles in Durango in the CIBACOPA Pro League.

Ally Mittleider ’14 / MA School Counseling ‘16 (Softball) After a trio of short-term mission trips to Cambodia as an undergrad, Ally moved to Siem Reap in 2016 on a one-year contract as the Project Officer at Blossom Café in Siem Reap, one of the organizations that NCU works with each year on summer mission trips. “Working at Blossom has been a wonderful blessing,” said Mittleider. “Every day I got to go to work and witness how God is working in the lives of so many young women. There wasn’t a single day that I was not left in awe of His work in the country.”

The Beacon Bulletin | Summer 2017

Beacon News

FOUR INDUCTED TO ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME Four pioneering members of Northwest Christian University’s first athletic teams competing in the NAIA and Cascade Collegiate Conference (CCC) were inducted into the NCU Athletic Hall of Fame this spring. The Class of 2017 featured both the first female inductees and first from a sport other than basketball. Joining the Hall of Fame class of 2017 were softball and basketball player Kasey (Sconce) Cutsforth ’07, volleyball player Brooke (Stribling) Crow ’09, men’s golfer Justin Ahrens ’10, and volleyball and softball player Cassie (Bishop) Ahrens '11. “This year’s Hall of Fame class is very personal and rewarding to this era of NCU Athletics,” said Corey Anderson, NCU’s athletic director. “Not only do these individuals represent the

expansion of NCU Athletics in 2006, they also reflect our growth in celebrating diversity with the first induction to honor female student-athletes.

Kasey (Sconce) Cutsforth ’07 Kasey played on the NCU softball team for four years and as a true pioneer was a member of the first three seasons of the women’s basketball program. In addition, she participated in one year of club volleyball before the varsity program launched the following season. While she was a standout athlete on both the softball and women’s basketball teams, she truly emerged as one of the best softball players in school history. As a sophomore, Cutsforth earned team MVP honors as she led the Beacons to a third-place finish at the USCAA national championship tournament, the highest finish ever for an NCU softball team.

She holds NCU’s single-season record for doubles (13) while her 13-game hitting streak as a sophomore is the secondlongest in school history. Cutsforth owns a spot in the career top-ten lists in 16 categories and still holds the record for most career doubles with 32. She has the second-highest hit total (144) and ranks second all-time with 40 multi-hit games. On the basketball court, Kasey was a three-time team MVP and three-time recipient of the Coaches Award. She ended her career with 500 points and 365 rebounds and ranks sixth all-time with 172 assists. Cutsforth also led the Beacons to a pair of appearances in the USCAA national tournament with the team taking fourth place in both 2006 and 2007. Cutsforth’s influence reached far beyond the court or the field. She was a strong

student, having been named a USCAA Academic All-American as a senior. She was named the Scholar-Athlete of the Year as a senior, along with NCU’s Female Athlete of the Year award.

Brooke (Stribling) Crow ’09 Brooke was a member of NCU’s first three volleyball teams in 2006, 2007, and 2008 after transferring from Chemeketa Community College. During her career she established numerous NCU records and held the career kills record for five years. She is still in the top-ten in six career categories and owns three of the top-four single-season kill totals. She is still fourth all-time for kills (870) and fifth for digs (767). Crow collected numerous awards during her career. She was the team MVP during all three of her seasons and was a twotime All-Cascade Collegiate Conference honorable mention. She was also named NCU’s Female Athlete of the Year for her senior season. As strong in the classroom as she was on the court, Crow was a two-time academic all-conference selection and a two-time NAIA-Daktronics Scholar-Athlete. She was named NCU’s Female Scholar Athlete of the Year in 2008.

Justin Ahrens ’10 A pioneering member of NCU’s first three golf teams, Ahrens came to NCU and established a high standard of excellence for future golfers to follow. He holds the school record for winning percentage (85.9%) and is tied with Tyler Falk for the best career stroke average at 74.5. He won six tournaments in his career which is second on NCU’s all-time list. Ahrens owns three of the top-ten rounds in school history including a pair of 68’s which rank third all-time. In 2009 he set a two-round tournament record with a five-under par 139 at the Concordia Invitational. Ahrens was a three-time All-Cascade Collegiate Conference selection, a sixtime CCC Player of the Week, named the Most Inspirational golfer in 2010, and was named the NCU Male Athlete of the Year as a junior in 2009.

Cassie (Bishop) Ahrens ’11 Cassie played four years on both the NCU volleyball and softball teams and excelled in both sports. As a volleyball player, she lands in the top-ten in five categories. She ranks sixth all-time for kills (598) and digs (692). She earned the

Coaches Award as a sophomore, and was Most Inspirational as a senior. As a junior she earned All-Conference honorable mention. Ahrens had one of the most prolific softball careers in NCU history and is still regarded as one of the best to put on the Beacon uniform. Beginning with a Most Valuable Newcomer award from her teammates as a freshman, she went on to be named the team’s Silver Slugger twice and was the team MVP as a senior. She was a three-time All-CCC selection, including First-Team honors as a sophomore and senior. While some of her numbers have since been eclipsed, when her career ended she owned two single-game, five singleseason and seven career records. Ahrens still holds NCU records for runs (93), extra base hits (66), total bases (274), plate appearances (519) and walks (68). And she is second all-time for home runs (32) and runs batted in (78). Her four combined All-Conference honors is tied for the fifth-most in NCU history and she was named the NCU Female Athlete of the Year in 2010.

BEACONS HONOR HUTCHINS Honored during the Hall of Fame ceremony were longtime supporters of NCU and women's athletics Bob and Marilyn Hutchins. For their commitment to the University and their support of Beacon athletics, the corridor of the Morse Event Center was officially renamed Bob and Marlilyn Hutchins Hall in their honor. "For years, Bob and Marilyn have given a significant amount of support to multiple projects on this campus," said Joseph Womack, Ed.D., NCU’s president. “The impact of their generosity has been felt by generations of students and we are thrilled to be able to honor them in this way."

Hall of Fame inductees (L to R): Kasey (Sconce) Cutsforth '07, Cassie (Bishop) Ahrens '11, Justin Ahrens '10 and Brooke (Stribling) Crow '09.

Summer 2017 | The Beacon Bulletin

Mr. Hutchins added, "The work that goes on at this school and has gone on at this school for over 120 years is far reaching and has impacted thousands of lives around the world and we are honored and happy to be a part of it."

The Beacon Bulletin | Summer 2017

Beacon News

SPRING SPORTS BRIEFS

BEACONS CONTINUE INCREDIBLE CLASSROOM SUCCESS

Softball

COACH LIPP INDUCTED INTO USCAA HALL OF FAME

The Softball season was highlighted by the emergence of sophomore Jessica Garner, a local Thurston HS product. As a sophomore, Garner led the Beacons and earned All-Conference honorable mention, posting the highest batting average (.286) and fielding percentage (.975) earning her both the Silver Slugger and Golden Glove awards. She is the first player in school history to win both awards in the same season.

Men's Golf

Madeleine Nelson '17

Jack Hackman '17

Michelle Fletcher '17

Northwest Christian University continues to be recognized at the top of the class when it comes to the academic success of student-athletes. For the first time, NCU swept the Cascade Collegiate Conference Scholar-Athlete of the Year awards. Seniors Michelle Fletcher '17 and Jack Hackman '17 took home the prize. In their time as Beacons, both Fletcher and Hackman came to epitomize the level of excellence that has come to be expected from the University. NCU is a destination for highly academic student-athletes with a combined GPA in the department of 3.32, the highest in school history. The female student-athlete population bolstered the total with their own 3.44 Grade Point Average as 12 of the 13 teams held a combined team GPA of 3.0 or higher. A new record for Academic All-Conference selections was established for the third straight year with 90 student-athletes honored out of 116 eligible to receive the award bestowed upon sophomores or higher with at least a 3.2 GPA that are not in their first year at the school. Of those 90 recipients, 34 were also named Daktronics-NAIA Scholar-Athletes, also setting a new record. These awards are given to juniors and seniors who boast at least a 3.5 GPA. Along with the CCC Scholar-Athlete of the Year awards, the highest academic honors each year come from the Collegiate Sports Information Directors Association (CoSIDA) Academic All-America program. All-District and All-America teams are voted on by Sports Information Directors from across the US and focus not only on academic achievement, but athletic prowess as well. This year, a record eight individuals were selected as All-District winners. Hackman and Madeleine Nelson '17 went on to garner Second-Team Academic AllAmerica honors as Fletcher was named to the Academic All-America First-Team.

Summer 2017 | The Beacon Bulletin

Former NCU men’s basketball Coach Dave Lipp is a member of the Legacy Class of athletes and coaches recently inducted into the United States Collegiate Athletic Association’s (USCAA) Hall of Fame. The USCAA is NCU's former governing body for athletics.

Playing host to the Cascade Collegiate Conference tournament turned out to be the best possible scenario for the Beacons. The men stunned the CCC, winning the CCC tournament at Springfield Country Club by two strokes to earn their first team appearance in the NAIA National Championship Tournament. Sophomore Josh Goins won his second CCC first-place finish in as many seasons and was named an AllCCC First-Team selection.

Women's Basketball

The Legacy Class consists of individuals dating back to the National Little College Athletic Association (NLCAA) and National Small College Athletic Association (NSCAA), predecessors to the USCAA, which was formed in 2001.

After a rough 1-4 start to the season, the Beacons rebounded to win ten of their next 12 games and went on to post a school record with 14 Cascade Collegiate Conference victories. The ladies earned fourth plaCe in the CCC and hosted a conference playoff game for the second straight season.

Coach Lipp was a leader in the associations for more than 40 years while serving at NCU as a player, coach, and athletic director. He was also a member of the Board of Directors for the USCAA. Most well-known for his five national championships and 13 national championship tournament appearances, Coach Lipp is a member of NCU’s Athletic Hall of Fame. He is NCU's all-time wins leader with 438 victories, holding a .639 career winning percentage.

Track & Field Ten NCU men’s and women’s track & field athletes qualified for the NAIA National Championship in 2017 and eight came home with All-American honors. Collectively, the women scored 21 points to finish in 12th place. The highest finish went to junior Bailey Dell who was the national runner-up in the Javelin. Dell earned a pair of NAIA Field Athlete of the Week honors during the season. Another highlight was senior Sierra Brown '17 who took fifth-place in the 5000m, claiming her sixth NAIA All-American honor.

Men's Basketball

The Beacons had another historic season, winning their second consecutive Cascade Collegiate Conference regular season championship. The team advanced to the second round of the NAIA National Championship tournament once again. Luke Jackson was named the CCC Coach of the Year and Jay Mayernik was named the CCC Player of the Year and was a First-Team All-American.

The Beacon Bulletin | Summer 2017

Alumni News

Alumni News Five hundred years ago, Martin Luther posted the famous NinetyFive Theses to the door of the Castle Church at Wittenberg, Germany. As waves of church reformation swept over parts of Europe, Luther’s ideas for renewing the vitality and biblical ethos of the church ignited real change in Germany and beyond. In late June, NCU friends and alumni tracked the pathways of Luther’s influence. We visited Eisleben and Mansfeld, where Luther was born and where he died. We spent an afternoon at the Wartburg Castle, where Luther hid from papal authority and penned his catalytic translation of the Bible. And we toured the Cathedral of St. Peter in Worms, where Luther made arguments for renewal and faced the censure of the the Roman Catholic Church. Along the “Luther Way”, other significant cultural landmarks pulled us in, like Thomas Church in Leipzig, where Johann Sebastian Bach composed and directed worship. We climbed castle towers and toured museums brimming with history and classical art, like the huge and elaborate Zwinger Palace in Dresden. We visited Oberammergau in the

Bavarian Alps, home of the worldrenowned passion play. We saw infamous sites in Berlin, like Hitler’s bunker and remnants of the Wall that used to separate East and West. And oh, did we eat. From bratwurst and knackwurst to schnitzel and every kind of pastry, we enjoyed the finest in German cuisine, mostly in restaurants seeping with stories and traditions. The greatest feast was spiritual and intellectual, thanks to lectures by our own Drs. Dennis and Karen Lindsay. Karen’s unique expertise regarding medieval church architecture made those extraordinary places of worship come alive, while Dennis brought his theological savvy and depth. Having lived in Germany, they are both fluent in the language, making the trip both functional and personal. As for the group, we were a wonderful mix of NCU alumni and friends, from Eugene, Springfield,

Medford, Portland, California and Hong Kong. Our Hong Kong friends, including Dr. Tony Wong (NCU ’15) and his wife, Yvonne, offered the experience an even richer international flavor. Most of us would say that the relationships built over two weeks of travel amounted to the greatest pleasure. This worthy experiment will certainly be repeated, as we find other destinations of interest and continue to build the network of our alumni and friends.

Keith Potter ’84, D.D.’11 is vice president for advancement and director of the Center for Leadership & Ethics. He has authored books and hosted conferences on leadership and relational health while serving as a pastor, educator and non-profit executive.

Alumni and Friends Trace Luther’s Steps 22

Summer 2017 | The Beacon Bulletin

The Beacon Bulletin | Summer 2017

Alumni Notes 1950s

Ruth Elizabeth (Heighton) Gibbs recently published a novel entitled The House of Shekinah: A Struggle to Find the Visible Presence of God (Our Story). The book can be found on Amazon.com.

1960s

David Nolte '65 is preaching fulltime at Crabtree Christian Church in Albany, Ore. He and his wife Marlene have been married 52 years and have served in churches throughout Oregon over the years.

1970s

Jerry Robertson '73 is serving as the Pastor of Prayer and Pastoral Care at La Mirada Christian Church in La Mirada, Calif. Joe Wittwer '73, D.D. '17 received an honorary Doctor of Divinity degree at NCU's spring commencement ceremony on May 6th, 2017. Joe and his wife Laina live in Spokane, where Joe serves as the senior pastor of Life Center. Rev. Roger Bray '76 is the pastor of Central Christian Church in Pocatello, Idaho and is currently serving his third term on the Pocatello City Council. He was recently published in the Idaho State Journal in an opinion piece highlighting services for the homeless in the Pocatello community. Gary Cheatham '76, M.Div., M.S.L.S. retired in February 2017 from the faculty of Northeastern State University, Tahlequah, Ok. Gregory Widener '77 has returned with his family to Oregon to pastor First Christian Church in Grants Pass, Ore.

1980s

Tony Carvey ’85, the Principal at Vincent Massey Collegiate Prep in Manitoba, has been honored by The Learning Partnership as one of Canada’s Outstanding Principals. After playing on the NCU basketball team for four years (including two national championships), Tony was an NCU assistant men’s basketball coach. He then launched a career in teaching, coaching and school administration. On receiving this award, Tony is described as an “empowering and mentoring leader…spearheading massive renovations…setting high standards and making Vincent Massey recognized as one of Winnipeg’s top three schools.”

Summer 2017 | The Beacon Bulletin

Vicki Brabham '88 has recently taken over as the lower school music teacher at Oak Hill School in Eugene, Ore.

1990s

George Rogers '91 is now the General Manager at the Running Y Resort in Klamath Falls, Ore.

2000s

Elijah (Eli) Gurash '01 and his wife Katy (Bollinger) Gurash '02 have relocated to Spokane, Wash. where Eli will be the head boy's basketball coach at Shadle Park High School. Ryan Stevenson '02 has a new hit single, "The Gospel". He is currently on TobyMac's 2017 "Hits Deep Tour" and following that will be joining the Jesus Freak Cruise reuniting dcTalk. This fall he will tour with MercyMe and Unspoken. Ryan and his family reside in Idaho. Dustin Locke '06 is working as a Manager at MW8, a student apartment complex in downtown Portland, Ore. Melanie (Lang) Towne '06, MBA '14 and her husband Garret welcomed their first child, a baby boy, in early 2017. Melanie continues to serve the NCU campus as the Assistant Dean of Adult Studies and Executive Director of Program Development. Rev. Erik Free '06 and his wife Kimberly have returned from three years of serving as missionaries in rural Mozambique with Global Ministries, a joint effort of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and the United Church of Christ denominations. Erik is now serving as senior pastor of Keizer Christian Church in Keizer, Ore. Jason Barta '07 is now the Systems Engineer for the City of Eugene, Ore. Amy Hartsfield '07 has begun a new position within the City of Eugene as the Volunteer Coordinator for the Eugene Public Library. Tauna Nelson '07 has taken a position at the John Serbu Youth Campus as a Group Worker for the Department of Youth Services in Eugene, Ore. Isaiah Bower '08 has accepted a position on campus to teach accounting as a full-time member of the Northwest Christian University faculty.

Alumni Notes 2010s

Mandy (Robertson) Burchfield '10, M.Ed.'12 got married to Ben Burchfield on March 18, 2017. Mandy is currently the Youth Pastor at Bethany Church of Franklin in Junction City, Ore. Justin Ahrens ’10 recently helped lead his CrossFit Fort Vancouver team to a third place finish at the International CrossFit Games in Madison, Wis. in August, 2017. Justin and his wife Cassie (Bishop) Ahrens ’11 have also recently returned to Eugene where Justin is opening up TreeLine CrossFit gym in the Eugene/Springfield area early this fall. Robert Helms '10, MBA '15 has started a new position as Human Resources Employee Support at Goodwill Industries of Lane and South Coast Counties in Eugene, Ore. Cameron Marshall '11 recently married Halas Oh in Portland, Ore. Campus pastor Troy Dean officiated the ceremony. Brittany (Yip) Reineke '12, MA '15 has moved to the Portland, Ore. area to work as Mental Health Therapist at Morrison Child & Family Services. Brody McGowan '12, M.Ed.'14 was awarded the Excellence in Education award for the month of February by MIX 94.5 FM in Eugene, Ore. Brody teaches 5th grade at Harrisburg Elementary School in Harrisburg, Ore. Jeffrey Wetherell '13, MBA '14 and his wife Stacey welcomed a baby girl in January 2017. Kalyssa Koontz '13 is returning to Oregon after several years teaching in Arizona. She will be teaching at Harrisburg High School in Harrisburg, Ore. Krista Bryson '13, M.A.'16 is now a child and family therapist at The Child Center in Springfield, Ore. Krista recently spoke at the Missions Team Auction to share how her own Cambodia missions trip as an undergraduate has impacted her postcollege life. Stephanie Roland '13, MBA '14 is a Cost Analyst at Oregon Ice Cream in Eugene, Ore.

2010s

continued

Danielle (Gehrke) Philpott ’14 married Calvin Philpott ’13 in July. She is currently a local account executive at Comcast Spotlight in Eugene, Ore. She stopped by campus recently to share with the board of the Center for Leadership and Ethics about the importance of mentorship and internship. Katrina Heine '14 recently graduated with a master's degree in neuroimaging from King's College London. She is working as a research assistant at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles, Calif. Seth Medina '14 and his wife Keisha welcomed a baby girl in February. Seth and his family currently reside in southern California. Kathryn Peterson '14 earned a master's degree in educational leadership and policy studies from Boston University in 2015 and is now managing and directing a K-12 academic program at ASC English, a non-profit organization based in Boston, Mass. Veronica (Schneider) Smyth '14 has accepted a new position in Accounting and Payroll at Central Oregon Tax Advisors in La Pine, Ore. Kelsay (Gardiepy) Rychener ’14 married Cory Rychener in August in Springfield, Ore. She graduated in May from Wichita State University (Kan.) with her Master of Arts in Communications. Samantha (Samye) Wolle '14 graduated from Grand Canyon University (Ariz.) with a master's degree in Reading with an emphasis in Elementary Education. Tyler Falk '14 was name Cascade Collegiate Conference Coach of the Year. Tyler was most recently the head NCU Men's Golf coach. Linsey (Johnson) Belisle '14 graduated from North Dakota State University with a master's degree in criminal justice. Jennifer Olson-Morzetti MBA '14 has moved to Thermofisher Scientific as a Director. Chelsea (McGowan) Palmer '14, M.Ed. '16 married Ryan Palmer in July 2017. She is an English teacher and girl's basketball coach at South Albany High School in Albany, Ore.

Josh Cox MBA '14 is now the Director of Marketing and Public Relations at Oregon Medical Group in Eugene, Ore. Alek Angeli '15 has been accepted into the Doctor of Physical Therapy program at Pacific University and will be starting in August. Jovani Guzman '15 has moved to Las Vegas, Nev. and is working as the Front Desk Supervisor at Wynn Las Vegas. Patricia Martinez '15 graduated from California State University, Northridge with a master's degree in school counseling. She has accepted a position as a middle school guidance counselor at Chowchilla Union High School in Chowchilla, Calif. Julia Shoemaker '15 is working at GloryBee in Eugene, Ore. as an Account Representative. Guillermo Torres-Sanchez '15 graduated from Pacific University with a master's degree in athletic training. He and Jaime Terwilliger '15 were married this summer.

Sarah Delp '16 is currently the Program Director for Downtown Eugene, Inc. and the University District Business Association for the Eugene Area Chamber of Commerce (Ore.). Chelsea King '16 has accepted a position at Fairfield Baptist Church in Eugene, Ore. as the worship pastor. Colin McManamon '16 started a new position as a Professional Soccer Scout at International Futbol X-Change. William Reed '16 has been hired by Lippert Components (South Bend, IN based company) to establish a brand new 60-70 employee call center in Eugene, Ore. to provide support for RV owners and dealerships. Janice Reynolds MBA '16 is serving as the Learning and Development Specialist at WhiteWave Foods in Springfield, Ore. Ciara Wainwright '16 is working in Eugene, Ore. as a Guest Service Agent at the Hilton Garden Inn.

Josh Bramlett '15 started as an internal auditor at Schnitzer Steel Industries in Portland, Ore.

Jacob Wathen '16 recently joined Fusion Real Estate in Eugene, Ore. He will be working as a Partner Development Representative.

Steve Hampton '15 is now the Technology Manager at KORE Broadcasting in Eugene, Ore.

Sarah Lawhorn '16 was accepted into the Master's of Athletic Training at Pacific University in Forest Grove, Ore.

Tyler Fox '16 recently competed with his team in the West Coast Regional CrossFit competition and competed at the national CrossFit Games in Madison, Wisc.

Andrea Gloss '16 is an Operator at Nepenthe Laboratory Services, LLC in Eugene, Ore.

Hans ('16) and Grace Coburn '15 are headed to Shanghai, China to teach English. James Burton MBA '15 and his wife Terra reside in Hillsboro, Ohio where he is the Director of Clinical Education for the Respiratory Care Program at Southern State Community College in Ohio. Katelyn (Battle) Keeth '16 is now working at NCU as the Media Services Technician and the Contemporary Music Industry Coordinator. She and her husband Jared Keeth '15 live in Eugene, Ore. Nicole Claric MBA '16 and her husband Dan welcomed a baby boy into their family in May. Nicole is co-launching a training, consulting and speaking firm for dementia services called Connections NW, LLC in Eugene, Ore.

Kendall Bergsten '16 is headed to Riverdale High School in Portland, Ore. as the head girl's Varsity volleyball coach. Miriham Walle '16 is headed to China to teach English after a year of teaching kindergarten. Tim Rogers M.Ed. '16 has been promoted to Science Operations Manager at Northwest Christian University in Eugene, Ore. Jennifer Wells MA '16 started a new position as a mental health therapist in the area of addiction and behavioral therapies at Odyssey/Emergence in the Willamette Valley area. Cody Gardner '17 has been offered a full-time Accounting Associate position with Fluence PC in Tigard, Ore.

The Beacon Bulletin | Summer 2017

23rd AnnuAl

Alumni Notes Nathan ('17) and Emily (Scotton) Sutherland '17 recently moved to Columbus, Ohio where Nathan is serving as the Director of Worship at Capital City Church. Delia House-Lopez '17 has moved to Nashville, Tenn. to work in the music technology industry. Delaney McMahon '17 has been hired as the worship pastor at Twin Oaks Christian Church and will be pursuing her master's degree through the Robert Webber Institute of Worship Studies (Florida).

OCC Connects NCU Alumni

Calvin ('17) and Annie (Tunstill) Anderson '18 were married in Lebanon, Ore. on July 8th. Calvin is the Sports Sales Manager at the Eugene Hilton.

northwest ChristiAn university

GOLF CLASSIC shAdow hills Country Club september 14 & 15, 2017

Madison Allen '17 has accepted a teaching position at Horizon School in Glendale, Ariz. teaching kindergarten. Alexis Huntyr '17 has been hired as a staff accountant at Griggs & Associates, LLC in Springfield, Ore. Hinako Blackwell '17 has been accepted at Concordia University to complete her Master of Education degree in curriculum and instruction with an emphasis in ESOL. She and her husband Kenny Blackwell '19 will continue to reside in Eugene while Kenny continues his undergraduate studies and competes on the Beacon's Men's Basketball team. Mrs. Mildred Craber, friend of the University and mother of Rev. Donnamae Craber Granneman '63, recently celebrated her 99th birthday in The Dalles, Ore.

Send your news to alumni@nwcu.edu or www.nwcu.edu/ alumniupdate.

Summer 2017 | The Beacon Bulletin

Class of '62

Nearly 50 alumni and their families and friends gathered in the Jubilee Lodge for a mini-class reunion during the Summer ’17 gathering of the Oregon Christian Convention, held annually in Turner, Oregon. While the classes of ’62, ’63 and ’64 were guests of honor, NCU alumni from many other graduating classes joined in the festivities as well. Plans are in the works for a wider ALL-NCU reunion next year at the Oregon Christian Convention. “Alumni, their families and friends had a wonderful time reminiscing about their time at Northwest Christian,” said Corynn Gilbert, M.Ed., NCU’s Director of Alumni Relations. “We are looking forward to wonderful time in 2018.” Save the Date: 2018 NCU Reunion at Oregon Christian Convention Jubilee Lodge • Turner, Oregon Thursday, June 28, 2018 2:00 pm ALL NCU GRADUATES WELCOME!

Presented By:

www.nwcu.edu/ncugolfclassic

Alumni News

‘Scholarship Monday’ Makes $130,000 Bill for College Affordable (Editor’s note: On May 21, 2017, Sherry Reeder told Oregonian readers how she paid for college with sacrifice, hard work, creative scholarship opportunities, and NCU merit scholarships made possible by generous donors.) By Sherry Reeder ’17 Since I was a little girl growing up in Oregon City, I have always dreamed about becoming a teacher. My teachers inspired me. They were nice, incredibly patient, and gave me the encouragement that I want to pass on to other students. Teachers opened doors for me to dream. Like my parents, they were and are, my role models. In high school, I learned many valuable lessons. In a finance class I learned that tuition at a four-year college or university

is expensive, particularly if you don’t come from money, which I don't. I also learned another lesson in high school: follow my dreams - regardless of money. My loving parents, while earning Ph.D.’s in life, do not have much formal education. Since their teenage years, they have always worked. But they encouraged me to follow my dream and to find a way to pay for a bachelor’s degree. Staring at tuition, room and board, books, technology, spending money, transportation, entertainment and other living expenses, attending a university was going to be a $40,000 per year or more investment in my life, but an investment well worth the money. So, I set out to find financing options that would not mortgage my future well into my thirties or even forties. A friend introduced me to Scholarship

Monday. Beginning in my junior year of high school, and lasting through my sophomore year of college, I would spend at least one hour each Monday applying for scholarships that I could use to help pay tuition and other expenses. I applied for hundreds of scholarships. The criteria for some were seriously academic and others were goofy, like, write a joke that makes the reviewer laugh and receive $500. Research, online scholarship aggregators, and tenacity helped to yield more than $10,000 toward my goal to earn a bachelor’s degree. When it came time to apply to schools, there were two non-negotiables: an excellent teacher education program and plenty of available scholarship opportunities. After attending college fairs, Northwest Christian University

was where I chose to study. NCU has an excellent teacher education program and offered a terrific financial aid package that included a four-year merit scholarship, work-study, and the opportunity for loans, if needed. Once I arrived on campus, I found ways to reduce my expenses. Junior and senior years, I was a resident hall assistant. In exchange for living in NCU housing and managing a floor of students, my room and board for the school year was paid by NCU. I did odd jobs to make additional money. I took advantage of work studyopportunities. I didn’t eat out a lot or shop or take expensive spring break trips. My

family helped when they could, particularly when I student-taught. My mom gave me her car so I had transportation to my student-teaching assignment, while she rode the bus to work in Oregon City. When I graduated magna cum laude from Northwest Christian University on May 6, 2017, I was the first person in my immediate family to attend a college or university. When I walked across the stage to shake President Womack’s hand, it occurred to me that in four years I had earned a bachelor’s degree in teacher education, an Oregon Teacher’s License, and had found many ways to pay for $120,000 of a more than $130,000

Generations of donors contribute each year to keep Northwest Christian University strong. Their commitment allows NCU to continue to provide Christian higher education to students who seek an education grounded in Wisdom, Faith and Service. Please carefully consider the many options available for you to financially support NCU.

(This opinion column was reprinted with permission from The Oregonian newspaper. Sherry’s story was also reported by KMTRTV and KVAL-TV in Eugene.)

Capital Gifts Capital gifts are designated by the donor to fund construction, technology and renovation projects. Scholarships Scholarships provide talented and deserving students the opportunity to make an NCU education more affordable. Gifts can be made to the general scholarship fund or an endowed scholarship can be established in the donors name to support future students. For more information about giving to NCU, contact Keith Potter ’84 D.D. ’11, Vice President for Advancement at 541349-7439 or kpotter@nwcu.edu.

Ways to Give Cash gifts immediately benefit NCU. Checks, cash, credit card or debit card are gratefully accepted. Just like a cash contribution, a gift of securities provides the donor with an income tax deduction in the year it is given. The most convenient way to give a gift of securities is to arrange a transfer by a broker to NCU’s account. To make a gift of securities contact the University’s broker: Amanda Bailey, D.A. Davison at 541-608-7225 or abailey@dadco.com. Many businesses have corporate matching gift programs that can double or even triple a gift to NCU. They are easy to coordinate and are of no cost to the donor. For more information, contact your employer’s human resources department for information about matching gifts. Planned gifts are a creative opportunity to support NCU. They can offer a significant financial benefit during the donor’s lifetime. Bequest donors can include NCU in their will by designating a specific dollar amount or percentage of their estate to the University.

Summer 2017 | The Beacon Bulletin

A debt-free or almost debt-free education is possible. The lesson I learned is to be thankful for your role models, stay focused on the end goal, sacrifice, and take advantage of every opportunity to make an education financially accessible, whether it is earning good grades, living in the residence halls, or writing a joke to make an anonymous reviewer laugh.

Opportunities To Support NCU

Annual Giving An Annual Fund gift is an opportunity to provide an unrestricted contribution to NCU. The Annual Fund supports all NCU programs, including financial aid, faculty and staff development, buildings and grounds maintenance, student activities and technology.

university education. My student loan debt is less than $10,000, that is less than the price of a reliable car.

Remember: • Any gift can be made in honor or in memory of someone special. • To receive a 2017 charitable income tax deduction, gifts must be postmarked by Dec. 31, 2017. All credit card gifts must be processed by Dec. 31, 2017. • The IRA Charitable rollover allows taxpayers age 70 ½ or older to make tax-free charitable gifts of up to $100,000 per year directly from their Individual Retirement Accounts to eligible charities, including universities. To make a gift using a IRA Charitable Rollover, contact your IRA plan administrator. • Give online at www.nwcu.edu/give. For more information, call 541-684-7318

The Beacon Bulletin | Summer 2017

Mission’s First Sign Returned More than 400 friends, community leaders and supporters attended the Eighth Annual An Evening of Tribute to honor local philanthropist and auto dealer Phil Speers, GloryBee Foods and the Eugene Mission, who were named recipients of the Exemplary Ethical Leadership Awards presented by Northwest Christian University’s Center for Leadership & Ethics.

What is believed to be one of the first neon signs used by the Eugene Mission when it first opened as The Gospel Mission by NCU students in the 1950s made it out of the Goodrich Building’s attic and back to the Eugene Mission. “We don’t know how long or why the sign was in the Goodrich attic,” said Pat Walsh, the University’s senior director of marketing and communication. “When Keith Potter and Corynn Gilbert found it mixed in with old class photos and other memorabilia, it was clear to all of us that the sign needed to go back to the Mission.”

Beginning with a reception in Robert and Marilyn Hutchins Hall, guests and honorees listened to music by Addison Wong, M.M., NCU’s professor of music, and sophomore Jaquelyn Neuschwander, a member of Willow, the University’s a cappella group. An Evening of Tribute was sponsored by Moss Adams LLC. Pam Elling ’86, a partner with Moss Adams LLC spoke on behalf of the firm and recognized Phil Speers, GloryBee and the Eugene Mission for exemplifying integrity and ethical leadership.

An Evening of Tribute NCU Honors the Leadership and Service of Phil Speers, GloryBee and the Eugene Mission

Summer 2017 | The Beacon Bulletin

The 2017 Exemplary Ethical Leadership awards were presented by the 2016 recipients: Ada O.Lee, D. Hum. ’12, Owner, B & A International; Marcus Whittaker, director of human resources, Market of Choice; and Phil Littleton, president, Holt International. To submit a nomination for the 2018 Exemplary Ethical Leadership Awards, visit nwcu.edu/forms/ethicalleader

Tribute videos can be viewed on NCU’s YouTube channel. Visit youtube.com/user/HowdoyouNCU

At the suggestion of University Trustee Clayton Walker and his wife Debby, president of the Eugene Mission Board of Directors, Kevin Jones and the talented team at Eugene Sign & Awning reconditioned the signed and it is now operational. “On behalf of our board of directors and the staff, I am so pleased to accept this wonderful piece of the Mission’s history,” said Jack Tripp, executive director of the Eugene Mission. “What a wonderful surprise!”

continued on page 32

The Beacon Bulletin | Summer 2017

Phil Speers and family with Dr. Keith Potter

The Turanski family with Dr. Keith Potter

PHIL SPEERS, chief executive of Sheppard Motors, is a wonderful example of a faith-filled businessman who is devoted to improving the lives of those around him. His whole-person approach to each member of his company’s team is an exemplary model for our community. The lives of his employees are enriched daily by the availability of a life coach who provides confidential financial and personal guidance. Further, the company’s core values exude integrity, along with personal and professional growth and accountability. Phil believes wholeheartedly in contributing to our community, and has supported the Relief Nursery in particular since moving to Eugene in 1999. He has also maintained Sheppard Motors’ prominent support for the Rotary Duck Race over the last 30 years. In addition, Phil and his wife, Lisa, support schools in the community, Bridgeway House, the Eugene Mission, Camp Harlow, OSLP, WomenSpace, and Eugene Young Life, to name a few. GLORYBEE, a second-generation family business, has become a leader in the natural foods industry and a pillar of the Eugene business community. Beginning in Dick and Pat Turanski’s garage in 1975, GloryBee has been built upon a foundation consisting of a belief in God and educating people about healthy living. GloryBee strives to have the highest possible ethical and moral standards for themselves and towards their customers. As a supplier of honey, sweeteners, spices, dried fruits, nuts, oils, and other quality ingredients, GloryBee has made an indelible mark in the world of food manufacturing in the Pacific Northwest, all the while providing a high standard of stewardship of the environment and of their own resources. In addition, GloryBee chooses to generously invest in the lives of their local Eugene-area employees and in local nonprofit organizations, such as Habitat for Humanity, the Eugene Mission, Food For Lane County, School Garden Project of Lane County, and others. The EUGENE MISSION is Eugene-Springfield’s only full-service wellness center for the homeless, serving over 750 Lane County residents daily and providing them with a path off the streets.

President Joseph Womack with Jack Tripp, executive director of the Eugene Mission

Summer 2017 || The TheBulletin Beacon Bulletin

Guided by "the love of God, and a love of our neighbor, the mission offers supportive services and programs that “change lives, give encouragement, and provide connections to area resources, jobs, education and training, so that guests leave with sustainable income, stable housing and hope."

We wish to thank our 2016 sponsors! PRESENTING SPONSOR Strong, smart, ethical leaders make all the difference. In a complex world we need influencers who care about doing the right things the right way.

EVENT SPONSORS Ameriprise Financial Axalta Wildish

At NCU, we believe that all of our students can be “Beacons” of integrity and agents of real change.

TABLE SPONSORS Arnold Gallagher Attorneys at Law Arbor South Construction B&A International Inc. Bridgeway House Chambers Construction C.W. Walker Associates, LLC D.A. Davidson & Co. of Medford Dari Mart Stores, Inc. Eugene Area Chamber of Commerce FastSigns Hughes Fire Equipment Holt International Industrial Finishes Isler CPA Pacific Benefit Consultants, Inc. PeaceHealth The Register-Guard Stock Wood NW Natural Oakway Center Rory and Mandy Robison Bruce and Carol Shelby Umpqua Bank US Bank Vox P.R. P.A. WCI The Willamette Valley Company

The NCU Center for Leadership and Ethics strives to equip and inspire ethical leaders by providing faithintegrated and valuesbased training for our students, alumni and surrounding community.

Center for Leadership and Ethics

The CLE strategy: Relationships The best way to grow character and leadership skill is by proximity to healthy leaders. Events Events provide clear instruction and inspiring stories to prove what strong, ethical leadership can accomplish. Examples and Models The Center for Leadership and Ethics is committed to finding and celebrating ambassadors of ethical leadership around us. The CLE program is supported by five community businesses:

With special thanks to: Jay Jones Squiddl creative director Sid Voorhees Auctioneer and NCU Board of Trustee member Addison Wong, M.M. NCU assistant musical director Jacquelyn Nueschwander NCU student

To submit a nomination for consideration of the 2018 Exemplary Ethical Leader Awards, visit nwcu.edu/forms/ethicalleader

An Evening of Tribute The Beacon Bulletin | Summer 2017

In Memoriam

In Memoriam IN MEMORIAM

IN MEMORIAM CONT.

Herbert M. Works Jr. '61 D. Miss. Much beloved Northwest Christian professor Dr. Herbert M. Works, Jr. passed away on May 7, 2017, in Corvallis, Oregon, seven days short of his 86th birthday. Born on May 13, 1931, he married Marilynn V. Smith in 1952, and remained happily married for almost 65 years. A man of intellect, faith and love, Dr. Works attended Northwest Christian College, earning a Bachelor of Theology degree. A master’s degree in history from the University of Oregon followed, and he later earned a Doctor of Missiology from Fuller Theological Seminary. He was ordained to the Christian ministry in 1960. Dr. Works held pastorates in the Irving Christian Church in Eugene, and in the Harrisburg Christian Church in Harrisburg, Oregon. He taught for 17 years at Northwest Christian College and was 15 years a missionary recruiter and field consultant for Christian Missionary Fellowship, Indianapolis, Indiana. After retirement, he and his wife taught three years in a Christian college in Birmingham, England, as missionaries. “Dr. Works was a popular, inspiring teacher in the classroom,” said Keith Potter ’84, Vice President for Advancement. “He had a great influence on campus, giving students the tools to live a mission-driven life.” Dr. Works is survived by his wife, and daughters Laura (Ken Bush), Colleen, and Beth; seven grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

Gary Pierpoint Former Northwest Christian University Trustee Gary Pierpoint passed away July 20, 2017, in Eugene, Oregon. Born in Salem, Oregon, on July 23, 1938, Gary married Marsha Wilson in 1961 in Eugene, Oregon. They raised three children: David (Debby), John (Deidre), and Mollie (Dusty) Smith. They survive him, along with four grandchildren, and a brother Randall. Gary had a long and distinguished banking career that spanned 43 years. He built an unparalleled reputation for outstanding performance and customer service. Gary retired in 2005 from Umpqua Bank. Involved in many charities and causes throughout the EugeneSpringfield area, he was a founding board member of NCU’s Center for Leadership & Ethics and served on the University’s Board of Trustees for many years.

Summer 2017 | The Beacon Bulletin

“Gary’s deep faith, leadership and high ethical standards have left an indelible mark on NCU,” said NCU President Joseph Womack. “We are thankful for the time he spent with us and grateful for the lasting impression that he made on the people who knew him.”

Donald Tykeson Philanthropist and media pioneer Donald Tykeson passed away on July 12, 2017. Born in Portland, Oregon, April 11, 1927, Don married Rilda “Willie” Steigleder in 1950. Together they raised three children: Ellen, Amy, and Eric. They, along with his wife of 67 years, six grandchildren and one great-grandchild survive him. A founding board member of C-SPAN, Don was recognized throughout the nation as a visionary and pioneer in the communications industry. Beginning his career in the ad sales department at Oregon Journal newspapers and then KPTV TV, the world’s first UHF television station, Don became an owner in Liberty Communications/KEZI TV in Eugene, Oregon, eventually transforming the company into a national broadcast and cable television enterprise. Liberty Communication/KEZI TV was sold in 1983. However, he continued to acquire television, cable and pager companies throughout Oregon, including BendBroadband, which he and daughter Amy sold in 2014. He and Willie generously supported many local organizations, including Northwest Christian University student scholarships and the RN to BSN Program. NCU President Joseph D. Womack said, “Don was a major donor to many, and was interested in promoting the well-being of the community, especially through education and healthcare. He valued helping students increase their understanding and application of a biblical perspective.”

Gary Straube A Longtime friend and supporter of Northwest Christian University, Gary Straube passed away May 2, 2017. Born in Walla Walla, Washington, in 1937, Gary and Pat (Gibson) were married for 57 years. Together, they worked 45 years in her family business, Dari-Mart Stores, headquartered in Junction City, Oregon, where he was General Manager and CEO. A graduate of Oregon State College, he is survived by his loving wife, Pat, and their son and daughter in-law, Kurt and Karla and their two children Jake and McKenna; a daughter, Michelle; two sisters Sharon (Bill) Carson and Barb Williams, and a brother, Jim Williams.

Gary and Pat have been active in their support for NCU for many years. “Gary and Pat believe in higher education and supported Northwest Christian University through funding scholarships, sponsoring the Center for Leadership and Ethics, and other events,” said Glenda Gordon, NCU’s Major Gifts Officer. “He was a blessing in his desire to help students live their dreams through scholarship funding. We are grateful to have spent time in Gary’s presence.” Barbara May Preston Freeman, originally of Mill City, Ore., passed away on January 27th, 2017 at 87 years old. She enrolled at Northwest Christian College in fall of 1947, during which time she met her husband of 63 years, Richard Freeman. After living all around the Northwest, they returned to Mill City to raise their children. She is survived by her children Earnest '71, Esther '74 (Keith Woodcock), and Paul '77; her brother Melvin Preston and sister Joretta Jean Briney; granddaughter Suzanne Destfino and her great-grandchildren Mia and Oliver; six step-grandchildren, twelve step great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. The family has requested that donations in Barbara's name may be sent to Northwest Christian University in Eugene, Ore., or to the American Diabetic Association. Beverly (Maxfield) Harvey (NCC 19711974) passed away on January 24, 2017, after a two-year struggle with lymphoma. She was married to Doug Harvey '74 and served alongside him in ministries in Illinois and Texas. They most recently lived New Hampton, Iowa, where Doug is serving as the pastor of Harvest Church. Esther (Setzer) Maxwell '55, originally from Cudahy, Wis., passed away in December 2016. She graduated from NCC in 1955 with a Bachelor's in Religious Education. She also completed a degree in Nursing from the University of Washington in 1957. Esther and her husband Stuart (Stu) had two sons (Carl and Richard) and two daughters (Ruth and Sharon). She also had many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Frank Betzer '49 of Springfield, Ore., passed away at the age of 100. Frank is survived by his wife Cecile Betzer, four children, and by seven grandchildren. Frank was a pastor for the Disciples of Christ churches in multiple locations. Upon returning to Springfield, he took a job at Econo Sales and remained there until his retirement 24 years later. Frank faithfully taught Sunday school at First Christian Church (Eugene, Ore.) as well. He is preceded in death by his first wife, Martha, his three brothers, and a grandson. Donations in Frank's memory may be made to Northwest Christian University. Gary Elwood, 75, of Gig Harbor, WA, passed away in December 2016. Gary entered NCU in 1960 and finished his degree at Alaska Methodist University in 1965. He spent most of his career teaching elementary school in Anchorage, Alaska. Gary is survived by his wife, Nancy Ruth Noble. Janice Pruitt Gutenberg, native of McKenzie River, Ore. but most recently of Grants Pass, Ore., passed away at the age of 85. Daughter of alumni Veltie ('25) and Ina ('27) Pruitt, she attended Northwest Christian College in the early 1950's before transferring to San Jose Bible College and ultimately graduated from Boise State College in 1972. Janice was an avid musician and accomplished oil painter. She is survived by her brother, four children and six grandchildren. Janis Lane, of Philomath, Ore. passed away on March 27th, 2017 after an extended illness. Janis was the beloved wife of Professor Emeritus LeRoy Lane, long-time professor of Communication at Northwest Christian University. Janis leaves behind her husband, two sons, five sisters and two brothers and will be dearly missed by her family. Katherine "Katy" Louise (Asher) Sales '60 passed away on June 25th, 2017. Katherine was a long-time resident of Eugene and served for many years as both the secretary of Westside Christian Church as well as Howard Elementary School. Katy was preceded in death by her husband Donald, son Danny Paul, and sister Linda Cunningham. She is survived by her son John, her sister Debby, three grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

Lois (Hill) Pifer '55 passed away on March 9th, 2017 at the age of 83. Her life was celebrated at Midway Christian Church in Portland, Ore. Lois grew up in Spokane, Wash., and entered NCC as a member of the class of 1955. During her time at NCC, she met Bill Pifer '54 whom she subsequently married. Together Bill & Lois had two sons and one daughter, lived all over the country in service to the Church, and returned to Portland in 2008. Lois is survived by her husband Bill, her two sons, twelve grandchildren and one greatgranddaughter. Robert Irving Gregory '65 of Springfield, Ore. passed away on January 8th at the age of 88. Bob served in the U.S. Army during the Korean war, then married his wife Betty (Hayes) and they had five children together. He enrolled at Northwest Christian College in 1959 and graduated in 1965 with a degree in Theology. Bob proceeded to minister to the First Christian Church in Athena, Ore. and then spent 20 years serving Marcola Christian Church in Marcola, Ore. Bob is survived by his wife Betty; his twin sister, Roberta; his brothers Paul and Kenneth; his five children, 12 grand-children, and thirteen greatgrandchildren. Walter Leslie "Les" Lowery '45, most recently of Prescott, Ariz., passed away on September 18, 2016. Les enrolled at NCC in 1945 where he met and married Sadie (Packard) Lowery '45. Les went on to attend graduate school at Butler School of Religion and pastored Christian Churches (Disciples of Christ) all around the country. Les and Sadie also served as missionaries in Japan, teaching English at Okinawa Christian Institute. Les was preceded in death by Sadie after 73 years of marriage. He is survived by his three daughters, 5 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren. Former men's basketball player Wyatt Taboh Graziano passed away from injuries sustained in a single car accident outside of Portland, Ore. Wyatt's family and friends gathered for a Celebration of Life ceremony in May 2017 and many of his former NCU teammates and coaches were there to share memories and stories.

The Beacon Bulletin | Summer 2017

NON-PROFIT ORG US POSTAGE PAID EUGENE OR PERMIT NO. 921

AUGUST 30TH Fall Semester Begins NCU Campus AUGUST 31ST Convocation Chapel NCU Campus SEPTEMBER 4TH Labor Day Campus Closed SEPTEMBER 14TH Embrace the Community Day Eugene/Springfield

For Your Calendar SEPTEMBER 14TH & 15TH 23rd Annual NCU Golf Classic Shadow Hills Country Club | Junction City OCTOBER 13TH & 14TH Homecoming Alumni Weekend & Family Weekend NCU Campus OCTOBER 14TH NCU Fall Music Concert Evans Chapel | NCU Campus NOVEMBER 9TH Veterans Day Luncheon for Faculty, Staff, Student and Alumni Veterans NCU Campus

DECEMBER 2ND & 3RD Experience Christmas Concert Morse Event Center | NCU Campus DECEMBER 15TH Fall Commencement Ceremony Morse Event Center | NCU Campus JANUARY 20TH Alumni Night featuring Men’s & Women’s Basketball Morse Event Center | NCU Campus For more information on these and other upcoming events visit: www.nwcu.edu/events