REMEMBER CORNERSTONE UNIVERSITY ALUMNI JOURNAL • SUMMER/FALL 2011
What’s inside etter rom your ire tor o Alumni Relations
10
Remember Celebrate the re-opening of Quincer hall by remembering some of its past residents!
resi ent s Corner Dr. Joseph Stowell, president of Cornerstone University
12
interviews with undergraduate alumna heather Derrick (B.A. ‘10), pGS alumnus John f. hendershot (M.S. ’09) and GrTS alumnus wallace Alcorn (M.Div. ’59)
News & Events • university news: Updates on campus renovations, the upcoming annual report and new academic initiatives. • academic news: information on the kern Scholars program, the higher Learning Commission and faculty news.
Feature Stories
1
Alumni News See what your former classmates are doing.
• alumni events: Updates on events and new opportunities for you to connect with fellow alumni!
N -€E C ‚ERƒ
what happens in The Q...stays in The Q. Or does it? Quincer alumni are reuniting on new Student Arrival Day to greet incoming residents and share memories of their time in this infamous dorm.
• alumni involvement: Meet your new alumni board!
Alumni Association
COrnErSTOnE UniVErSiTy ALUMni JOUrnAL STAff
marketing project manager: katherine felber
director of alumni relations: Darci irwin (M.S. ’09)
art director: Caroline Cahoon (B.A. ’03)
alumni communications specialist: Amanda kusneske (B.A. ’11)
university Writer/editor: kelli Cottrell
alumni events specialist: nicole Bragenzer (B.A. ‘11)
contributing photographers: Coastline Studios; ryan prins photography; Studio 6.23; Caroline Cahoon (B.A. ’03); Caleb williams (B.A. ’12)
2011-2012 alumni relations student sta≠: karissa ryan (B.A. ’12) executive director of marketing & communications: Bob Sack
ALUMni ASSOCiATiOn MiSSiOn The CU Alumni Association exists to serve alumni in their roles as influencers for Christ by developing connections, facilitating celebrations and encouraging contributions. founded in 1941, Cornerstone University is a Christ-centered institution of higher learning located in Grand rapids, Mich. More than 2,700 students attend Cornerstone’s undergraduate and graduate programs. www.cornerstone.edu/alumni
The Cornerstone University Alumni Journal is produced three times annually through a partnership between the offices of Alumni relations and Marketing & Communications at Cornerstone University. permission to quote short portions of this publication is granted as long as content is preserved and proper credit is given to the Alumni Journal. contact us: when you e-mail us with updated contact information for the database, we will mail you a CU Alumni window decal as a thank
you gift. Visit www.cornerstone.edu/alumni; click on “Alumni Office” and then “Update your information.” Or simply e-mail us at alumni@cornerstone.edu.
Cornerstone University does not discriminate on the basis of race, national origin, se , age or disability in its policies and programs.
if no internet access is available to you, please mail us at: Cornerstone University Office of Alumni relations 1001 E Beltline Ave nE Grand rapids, Mi 49525-5897 Call us at 616.222.1669.
© 2011 Cornerstone University. All rights reserved.
dear alumni Family, HIS SUMMER my husband and I made one of those gut-wrenching, no sleeping, signing-papers-until-youhave-carpul-tunnel kinds of decisions. We are going to move. We have been in our house for nine years and felt it was time to turn the chapter in our story and make a scene change. During these days before we officially say goodbye to the home in which we’ve spent our first decade, I’ve found myself sitting in different rooms of the house, remembering. Remembering the dinner parties with loved ones in our dining room. Remembering the fabulous people who felt at home in our guest room. Remembering the blunders and infrequent successes in our kitchen. And I am reminded how vital it is to our well-being to take time and remember. That being said, join me in exercising your long-term memory muscles and think back to your days as a student at BBI, GRBTS, GRBBC, GRBC, GRSBM, CC, GRBS, CU or GRTS. You have a collection of memories – hilarious ones and tearful ones – and just like you, everyone reading this alumni journal has memories and many of them will include you! How did the Lord work in your life when you were here? And who was used most vividly in your life? May you remember your favorite professors and your least favorite ones, the times that shook your faith and those that strengthened it, the heartbreaks as well as the heart mendings, the achievements as well as the setbacks. For every moment is important and every moment has made you, you. May the hard moments be redeemed and may the beautiful ones continue to shine. Like the Psalmist may we say, “I remember the days of long ago; I meditate on all your works and consider what your hands have done” (Ps. 143:5). Serving Him, Serving You,
Darci Irwin (M.S. ’09) Director of Alumni Relations Pictured: Darci Irwin with Carol Mattingly and Tom Bos at the 2011 undergraduate commencement. Find us on Facebook for more photos from the 2011 undergraduate, PGS and GRTS commencement events. Ryan Prins Photography © 2011
3
Remember • Summer/Fall 2011
president’s corner OR THE PAST 70 YEARS, Cornerstone University – in one form or another – has been impacting lives for Christ. What rich history! But for you, that history is intensely personal. During your time here, you accumulated memories that, like Velcro, stuck to your heart for a lifetime. Memories of classes and courses that refined your thinking process, friends, late nights in the dorms, pranks, faculty who loved and mentored you, chapels that moved you, and the impact of a campus that helped shape your life. These are experiences that you can reach back and draw from, even today. I’m loving my time here at Cornerstone, and my memory bank is already filling up with meaningful experiences that will continue to form my life and future. That’s how life works – we go through each day interacting with people and places, and the memories pile up. We should never take these encounters for granted, or the power of the human memory. It can evoke strong emotions and transport us to another time. It grounds us, giving us context for living. At CU, we value your memories. Your memories are a significant part of our story. Remembering our past and its impact on you as a student is vital if we want to successfully plan for our future! So, whatever your memories are, they are important to us.
Pictured: Dr. Stowell with current students and staff at the 2011 Big Ticket Festival. Turn to page 8 for more information on this annual Christian music festival.
Cornerstone University Alumni Journal
4
Renovations Around Campus
1ˆ Expanding our commitment to internationalization of our educational programs.
Cornerstone has developed partnerships with Christian colleges in Korea and in the Netherlands and will be sending students to and receiving students from those institutions during the fall semester.
This summer there is a flurry of activity as we prepare for New Student arrival on Aug. 31! Check out the newest renovations on our busy campus: • Quincer Hall is returning this fall as a men’s dorm! (see pages 10-11 for more details)
2ˆ Developing new January Term study programs in Ireland and Italy! Administration Buildin
g
ˆ Broadening our programs in the Visual Arts – new major in photography and new minors in graphic design and digital media! ˆ Exploring new majors in the future that connect well with some of the key economic areas of West Michigan – for example, non-profit administration and health care emphasis of our communications major.
• A new Faculty Office Building has been constructed with 28 office spaces for several academic divisions. • The Dining Commons is getting a facelift that will result in a rather dramatic change for the community!
New major in photography!
• Gordon Music Hall is getting a little touch up with the addition of new pianos, upgraded practice spaces and new seating in the recital hall. • The Administration Building is being fitted with a new entrance and lobby.
Dining Commons
We would love to have you come by and see what has been going on at your school. Let us know and we’ll buy you lunch or a cup of coffee. Thanks for letting us serve you! Bill Knott Vice President for Advancement
Conversation with the Provost Dr. Rick Ostrander, provost, answers questions from our alumni! Visit www.cornerstone.edu/alumni to read the conversation.
5
Remember • Summer/Fall 2011
Annual Report 2011 Online Cornerstone University has seen the Lord’s favor this year, including abundant financial blessings. In September, check out the 2011 Cornerstone University Annual Report online! We are thankful for your investment in the ministry of Cornerstone University and for your faithful support and impact you have on the students lives. Prayerfully consider continuing your support in 2012. To view the 2011 Cornerstone University Annual Report, visit www.cornerstone.edu/annualreport. If you would like a printed copy, please contact the Cornerstone University Advancement Office at 616.254.1640.
News & Events
university neWs
New Academic Initiatives
academic neWs
Kern Scholars Program Grand Rapids Theological Seminary is proud to introduce you to the Kern Scholars Program, an exciting new opportunity at GRTS. This generous scholarship program provides financial support for young Master of Divinity students called to senior pastoral or church planting. If you or someone you know senses the Lord leading them to graduate theological studies, visit grts.cornerstone.edu/grts/aid/ksp or contact Kern Scholars Program Director, Craig Johnson (B.A. ‘82; M.Div. ‘87; Th.M. ‘02), at craig.johnson@cornerstone.edu.
higher learning Commission Cornerstone University has partnered with the Higher Learning Commission in attempt to evaluate the university’s strengths and opportunities for improvement and growth. Through this self-study process Cornerstone University aims to gain re-accreditation by demonstrating that it meets the following criteria: 1. Operates with integrity to ensure fulfillment of the university’s mission.
News & Events
2. Allocates resources and self study process for evaluation and planning to fulfill the university’s mission, improve overall academic quality and successfully handle future challenges and opportunities. 3. Provides evidence of student learning and teaching effectiveness that demonstrate the fulfillment of the university’s educational mission. 4. Promotes a life of learning for its faculty, administration, staff, and students by encouraging and supporting practices that fulfill the university’s mission. 5. Identifies and serves the university community in ways that provide value for all.
Matt Bonzo leads New Institute on Campus Cornerstone’s vision is to graduate students who have a passion for and are equipped to effectively engage the cultures of our world for Christ. Recently, funding was provided by a partnering foundation to help actualize this vision with the establishment of the Institute for Christian Cultural Engagement (ICCE) on campus. The lnstitute will be led by Dr. Matt Bonzo, associate professor of philosophy. Initial projects include a conference in September on Christianity and Creativity that will coincide with ArtPrize and feature Rick Devos, ArtPrize founder. The overarching purpose of the Institute will be to work with all departments of the university to support their success.
Stevens Commencement Address Dr. Michael Stevens, associate professor of English, offered wisdom and encouragement to the 2011 graduating class at the Seniors and Parents Luncheon in May. He challenged graduating students to discover their own unique “little ways” so as to never become too busy to notice and become inspired by “the good Creation” and “those who bear the Creator’s image.” So what are the “little ways” that you celebrate and are inspired by your Creator? We want to hear from you! email alumni@cornerstone.edu with your response and you will be entered into a drawing to win a Starbucks gift card!
hunter directs at Civic Theatre Jennifer Hunter, associate professor of theatre at Cornerstone University, directed a summer production of James and the Giant Peach for Grand Rapids Civic Theatre. Hunter has consistently directed each summer a children’s production for a community theatre. Hunter was also selected as one of 25 theatre directors worldwide to participate in the inaugural Director’s Lab North held in Toronto, Canada in June. For a list of the upcoming theatre season at CU, visit www.cornerstone.edu/theatre.
Cornerstone University Alumni Journal
6
alumni events
Big Ticket 2011 The Big Ticket Festival has become a BIG event for Cornerstone University! For three years now, CU has partnered with Free Spirit Ministries to feature more than 100 Christian music artists and speakers in a three-day extravaganza. This summer’s event, held June 23-25 in Ionia, drew more than 30,000 spectators.
Theatre Alumni Reunion
al
Big Ticket Festiv
“The BTF is an important outreach tool for Cornerstone,” said Bob Sack, CU Executive Director of Marketing and Communications. With dozens of incredible alumni volunteers, plus the help of new friends and old friends, we felt truly blessed to have connected with the many alumni who enjoyed the artists at Big Ticket and spent time at our alumni tent. Some of the special guests who stopped by our tent included Building 429 and Sanctus Real! In addition, we gave away two daily ultimate experience passes to alumni who entered our drawing, allowing these alumni to have a backstage pass to the concerts! Check out our website for links to pictures and on Facebook to tag yourself in photos. Mark your calendars for next year’s Big Ticket Festival, June 21-23! Pictured: Alumni staff Darci Irwin (M.S. ’09) and Amanda (Kusneske) Lawrence (B.A. ‘11) with prize winners Glenn Panter (attended ’96-’01) and Jeremy Underwood (B.A. ‘05) at Big Ticket Festival 2011.
lifeWalk Update Friends and family of the university joined our alumni and friends of the Pregnancy Resource Center to celebrate and walk for life at their annual LifeWalk. We were blessed with a beautiful day and encouraged to see the turnout on our Cornerstone campus. If you missed the LifeWalk this year, or are interested in finding out more about their mission, go to cornerstone.edu/lifewalk for links and additional information.
7
Remember • Summer/Fall 2011
More than 70 Cornerstone alumni attended the 10th anniversary of Kappa Theta Gamma (KTG), Cornerstone’s student theatre guild. The event included a meet and greet, banquet, awards ceremony, slideshow and special presentation to Jennifer Hunter, director of theatre at Cornerstone. All 10 former presidents of the organization attended. To view upcoming KTG events and the 2011-12 theatre season, visit www.cornerstone. edu/theatre. Theatre Alumni Reunio
n
Pictured: Andrea (Timmerman) Prins (B.A. ’05) sharing memories at the Theatre Alumni Reunion dinner.
ReCONNeCT WITh ClASSMATeS AT ANNUAl eVeNTS OF MUdBOWl, MIdNIGhT MAdNeSS & hOMeCOMING! mudBoWl & midnight madness: oct. 6, 2011 – Join us at the Alumni VIP tent to cheer on
the student teams during mudbowl! Then head over to the Hansen Center and enjoy the “madness” as we celebrate the start of basketball season!
homecoming: FeB. 12-18, 2012 – We’re
excited to modify our homecoming tradition to reach more of you! We’ll pull out all the stops as we welcome you to campus this winter! Mark your calendars and prepare for new traditions and more reunions as we emerge from hibernation and celebrate!
New Student Arrival day: Aug. 31
Sept. 30 – Oct. 1
Remember move in day?! The energy, the jitters, the excitement?! Come and join the party! We’re looking for alumni volunteers who possess physical strength, hospitality and/or empathy. No matter your age or skills, if you’d enjoy helping the next generation of Golden Eagles move boxes, dry tears, bounce with the overly excited, or hug a mom (or dad!), then we want you on the crew! Bring former roommates or dorm friends along with you!
How many generations of Cornerstone alumni are in your family? Come and revisit campus together! Chapel, classes and campus life experiences you won’t want to miss, including:
WhAT: Alumni Volunteers and New Student Arrival 2011 WheN: Wednesday, Aug. 31 TIMe: Come for the morning, afternoon or stay all day! Shift A (morning): 9 a.m. – Noon, followed by FREE lunch in the dining commons Shift B (afternoon): Noon – 2:30 p.m. Shift C (whole day): 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., with FREE lunch in the dining commons WheRe: We’re looking for at least 10 volunteers for each of the residence halls – Babcock, Crawford, Cook, Keithley, Pickitt, VanOsdel, Quincer (Quincer alumni: See page 11 for information on the Quincer Reunion, occurring during New Student Arrival Day!)
News & Events
RSVP: Contact Nicole Bragenzer, Alumni Relations Events Specialist, at nicole.bragenzer@cornerstone.edu
Help new students move into your favorite dorm!
Let us know: 1. Desired shift (A, B, C) 2. The dorm you would like to help move students into 3. T-shirt size – All volunteers will receive a limited edition New Student Arrival 2011 t-shirt!
• “Feed My Children” (Friday, Sept. 30) – A workshop presented by Cornerstone University and “Feed My Starving Children” discussing the challenges and responsibilities of Christians as they encounter world hunger. • “Night of Nets” Men’s Soccer Game (Saturday, Oct. 1) – World Vision ACT;S presents this campaign to mobilize churches, campuses and communities to do our part by using our voices and actions to end malaria deaths by 2015. learn more and register online at: WWW.cornerstone.edu/FamilyWeekend2011.
VIP Receptions at CU Theatre events! Alumni Relations will be hosting VIP receptions for alumni during intermissions of the 2011-2012 theatre productions! Arsenic & Old Lace – Oct. 27, 2011 1940s Radio Hour – Dec. 2, 2011 A Little Princess – Feb. 3, 2012 The Sound of Music – April 13, 2012 See the back cover for details on the reception for Arsenic and Old Lace!
Cornerstone University Alumni Journal
8
alumni involvement
Meet the Alumni Board! WE ARE THRILLED to introduce the new alumni board, a group who will further the mission of the alumni association and partner with the office of Alumni Relations by representing alumni through leadership, networking, participation and prayer. To read full bios of these board members, visit www.cornerstone.edu/alumniboard.
KATheRINe (WISeN) AVeRIll (B.A. ’10)
deBORAh GUYTON (GRTS; M.A. ‘10)
Occupation: Communication Manager for International Aid
Occupation: Associate Relations Manager at Saint Mary’s Health Care
BRIdGeTTe (ZeRFAS) BASSFORd (B.A. ‘03)
lINdSeY KeRSTeTTeR (PGS; M.S. ‘09)
Occupation: Assistant Executive Director for Degage Ministries
Occupation: Copy Editor for Global Amway Marketing
JeFF BOdTKe (B.A. ’10)
RICK KOOle (B.R.e. ‘70)
Occupation: Operator, Recycling Co.
Occupation: Senior Pastor for Chapel Pointe Church in Hudsonville
TeRRI (BURNS) FOWleR (B.A. ’81) Occupation – Chaplain at Gordon Food Service.
lee GeYSBeeK (B.A. ‘93) Occupation: Radio Marketing Director for Compassion International
9
Remember • Summer/Fall 2011
MIKe KRICK (B.A. ‘94) Occupation: Director of Advocacy for World Orphans
WeNdY (PARR) hOlTVlUWeR (B.A. ‘94) Occupation: Attorney at Miller Johnson
BRIAN SANdBeRG (B.A. ‘99) Occupation: Partner at Argus Financial Consultants
ROBeRT SUNdelIUS (B.A. ‘86) Occupation: Chief Operating Officer for Emergency Care Specialists
Share Your Story! One of the ways we love to celebrate our alumni is by sharing their stories with other alum! We set a goal on May 31, 2011 to receive 100 story submissions from our alumni – our goal was not only met, but surpassed! Many of these stories can be viewed on our website at www.cornerstone.edu/ Alumni. Due to the volume of stories received, we will cycle the stories on the website, so make sure you are checking the page often for new stories! Take a minute to share your story with us! Visit www.cornerstone.edu/sharestory today! Share your story to receive one of these bookmarks from the Alumni Association!
Remember
Dr. Sheldon Quincer, one of the ďŹ rst 10 professors at Cornerstone.
What happens in the Q! the Q...stays in
"Oh Quincer...What wonderful memories! The new students must remember the 'Quincer Way' and that once you are Quincer, you are Quincer for life!" ~ Jonathan Schnicke (B.Mus. ’97) ~
Cornerstone University Alumni Journal
10
Quincer comes Back to liFe in Fall 2011! UILT IN 1964, Quincer Hall stands as the ultimate housing
legacy on the campus of Cornerstone University. Every male who had a residential experience in Quincer is filled with stories. Now, after a two-year hiatus as a residence hall, Quincer returns to its rightful place as the bastion of the male freshman experience.
Quincer reunion – aug. 31 Reminisce with fellow Quincer dormmates, help the next generation of Quincer men move into the dorm and enjoy a special local treat as we celebrate the reopening of this infamous dorm!
Dave Sterken during a Quincer Open House
• Volunteer during new student arrival: 9 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. • Quincer Reunion: 3 p.m. – 5 p.m. (meet at Gainey) learn more and contribute financially at www.cornerstone.edu/quincer!
The Quincer staff of ’84-’85 (left to right) Brad Brandt, R.D.; Scott Stewart, Tim Hewitt, R. A.; Mark Manzer, R.A.; John VerBerkmoes, R.A.
11
Remember • Summer/Fall 2011
undergraduate spotlight: heather derrick (B.a.’10) OR THE PAST YEAR Heather has served as assistant director of House of Joy, a home for single mothers, in ClujNapoca, Romania. She is able to fulfill the God-given passion she has for the Romanian people at House of Joy by serving as a missionary through Youth With A Mission. You impact lives around you everyday. how do you feel you are “Building lives that Matter” on a daily basis? I love what I do because I get to bring the gospel of Jesus Christ to some of the most vulnerable people in society - single Mums. I love that my job is very flexible and that I am under the leadership of people who believe that God will work through each one of us.
Feature Stories
how do you feel Cornerstone prepared you for your ministry? My education in social work expanded my ability to be empathetic and to serve people in a more thoughtful way. It has helped me to approach people in a more Christ-like way and to empower them to be all that God has created them to be. I chose this after six years of investing short-term through bringing two teams from Cornerstone and working with the House of Joy home for single mothers for 10 months in 2005.
FAST FACTS • After high school graduation, at age 18, she served for 10 months at the House of Joy before starting college. • Heather has had a love for the Romanian people since the age of 14. • While at Cornerstone Heather led two mission teams to Romania. • She is a native of Milton, Canada.
Cornerstone University Alumni Journal
12
pgs spotlight: John F. hendershot (m.s.’09) OHN F. HENDERSHOT is chief financial officer for Dig-It, Inc., and serves on the zoning board in Holland, Mich., where he resides with his family. He previously served in management at various banking institutions over the past decade. Why did you choose to attend PGS? I enrolled in the PGS program through God’s urging through James Link, an admissions counselor. how has PGS prepared you for your vocation? My education was extremely influenced by the servant leadership principles, which were part of the program. Through my experience, education and belief in Jesus Christ, God has taught me how to be a real leader. A leader that he sees value in and that is able to shine a light in the world. What are you going to use in your job that will help “Build lives that matter”? That it is important to surround yourself with positive, Godly influences. Where you are educated helps mold your “worldview” and it is necessary to understand what you believe. Pictured: John with his wife, Rachel (M.S. ’09)
13
Remember • Summer/Fall 2011
MY LIFE AT CU
• FAVORITe MeMORY: John met his wife Rachel at Cornerstone. They were married by one of their favorite professors, Scott Barger. • FAVORITe PROFeSSORS: I had several great professors at Cornerstone including but not limited to Gary Ellens, Andy Bowne and Scott Barger. • FAVORITe PlACe ON CAMPUS: Seminary building • lAST VISIT: This year at an alumni luncheon. • SOUVeNIRS: A Cornerstone briefcase, and I wear a Cornerstone class ring.
grts spotlight: Wallace alcorn (m.div. ’59) ALLACE ALCORN, who graduated 52 years ago from
Grand Rapids Theological Seminary, has used his degree to build countless lives that matter through his military and pastoral service. He resides in Austin, Minn., with his wife, Ann, whom he married while at the seminary. His 43 years of military service included: 29 years as an Army reserves chaplain, but with substantial time on active duty, an instructor in psychology and speech at The Adjutant General’s School, U.S. Army; a counterintelligence agent, a military police officer with his final assignment as a Colonel in the Military District of Washington. how did you decide to attend Cornerstone University?
Feature Stories
Upon completing the residence work for an M.A. in New Testament at Wheaton Graduate School of Theology, I planned to enter a Ph.D. program at the University of Edinburgh with the thought of graduate school or seminary teaching. Dr. J. Edward Hakes, the current president of GRTS, spoke at an undergraduate chapel at Wheaton. His scholarship, spiritual commitment and wholesome sense of professionalism impressed me. how did the education at Cornerstone prepare you for your current vocation? I received superb instruction and training in preaching from Warren Faber and warm encouragement and excellent modeling from Pastor Henry Owens Berends.
More important than the classwork was orientation on local churches and their ministries. how do you feel you are “Building lives that Matter” on a daily basis? Being no longer obligated to institutional politics allows me to minister pastorally to individuals with a greater freedom than I had as a pastor or professor.
FAST FACTS • FAVORITe MeMORY: My favorite memory is boldly announcing to Leon Wood that I was utterly unprepared to translate in a Monday morning Hebrew exegesis class because I had become engaged over the weekend. I was the only unmarried man in the seminary, and they were all worried about me. The class burst into cheers, and I was strongly affirmed at my choice of a nursing instructor they all knew and respected. It was the only time Professor Wood smiled at one of my contributions. • OTheR ACCOMPlIShMeNTS: Pastored Bloomfield Hills Baptist Church in Bloomfield, Mich.; attained a doctorate from Princeton and New York University in history and philosophy of education; taught Bible at Moody Bible Institute; taught at Northwest Baptist Seminary. Cornerstone University Alumni Journal
14
OGETHER AS ALUMNI, you are influencing the lives of people for Jesus Christ all over the globe. Thank
you for sharing the ways in which you are doing this and for keeping us up to date on the happenings in your life.
The Grand Rapids Theological Seminary presented the “Alumnus of the Year Award” to dr. david livermore on May 6, 2011, in recognition of his faithful service and significant contributions in ministry. From 2004-2010, Dr. Livermore served as an associate professor of intercultural ministries at GRTS, teaching several of the core missions courses and providing leadership in the development of the intercultural program. Dr. Livermore also served as the executive director of the Global Learning Center at GRTS, a student and outreach center focused on key issues facing ministry leaders in the 21st Century. He recently moved into a new position as president of the Cultural Intelligence Center, LLC, located in East Lansing. For more details on this award, please see www.cornerstone.edu/edu_detail. aspx?id=5654.
15
Remember • Summer/Fall 2011
honoring Bob Rapa doctor Robert Keith Rapa (B.A. ’79), 59, passed away unexpectedly on May 25, 2011. He enjoyed nothing more than preaching from and teaching about the Word of God, riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle and spending time with his wife and kids. Bob graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in religion and served as a resident director for Quincer residence hall. He continued his education at Grand Rapids Theological seminary, earning an M.Div. and a TH.M. He served as an adjunct, associate and assistant professor for Asia Baptist Theological Seminary until 1996. From 2006 through 2010 he led ABTS as president. When he wasn’t teaching for Cornerstone, Bob spent his life in faithful service to the Lord, pastoring churches in Allegan, Otsego, Belmont, and Indian River, Mich. He will be greatly missed.
Remembering Professor eifert Wilbur eifert, 86, of Grand Rapids, went to be with his Lord and Savior on July, 10, 2011, in the presence of his loving family. He honorably served his country during World War II in the U.S. Navy. He and his first wife, Joyce, worked as missionaries in Hawaii for 12 years. In 1975 Eifert began teaching in the Bible Division for Grand Rapids Baptist College (Cornerstone University). He retired in 2003 from Cornerstone University. He is survived by his wife of 28 years, Phyllis. Please consider contributions to the David Eifert Scholarship Fund, named after one of Eifert’s sons, at Grand Rapids Baptist Seminary.
Welcome New Alumni Relations Team Members! Amanda (Kusneske) lawrence (B.A. ’11) recently joined the Office of Alumni Relations as the Alumni Communications Specialist. Through this role, Amanda desires to be an active participant and enthusiastic partner for alumni as she develops and maintains consistent forms of communication. Amanda thrives on conversations with people, brainstorming sessions, open communication and lots of laughter. She recently married Joel, a student at GRTS. Together they enjoy the music of Frank Sinatra, a love of books and reading, and a passion for teaching at the university level. As Alumni Events Specialist, Nicole Bragenzer (B.A. ’11) is responsible for overseeing alumni events in order to encourage alumni to connect, contribute and celebrate with their Cornerstone University family. Through her position, Nicole desires to create alumni events that celebrate both current and future Cornerstone alumni. Nicole is also a life-long student of Walt Disney Imagineering and aims to bring similar standards of storytelling, detail and interaction to Cornerstone University Alumni Events.
Alumni News
Alumnus of the Year
chris (B.a. ‘04) and stephanie (Bailey, 2001-2005) graham welcomed their first child, Silas Matthew, into their family on Jan. 11, 2011. doug and Becky (vass, B.a. ‘90) reinholtz welcomed their first child, Aubrie Christine, on April 1, 2011. Aubrie is from a song and the name of a favorite professor.
honor
arrivals
2000s
2000s david sample (attended ’06-’09) went to be with our Lord on May 15, 2011. David loved to spend time with his family, and his faith was very important to him. he was a very giving person and cared about helping others. he chose to be a registered organ donor and because of that, was able to save and enhance many lives through organ and tissue donations.
unions
Alumni News
When you share the arrivals to your family, we will send you a “I’m a Cornerstone Kid” baby bib.
gene sickler (attended ‘49-’52) went to be with our Lord on March 19, 2011 in Apollo Beach, fla.
peggy devoe (attended ’65-’68) went to be with our Lord on May 7, 2011. She passed away peacefully at home with her family by her side.
Joshua (B.s. ‘10) and diana Jacobson welcomed their first child, Elli Jayne, on April 29, 2011.
aaron and sarah (Boyer, B.a. ‘06, m.s. ‘10) symonds welcomed their first child, Owen philip, into their family on Jan. 31, 2011.
loren dudley (attended ‘46-’50) went to be with our Lord on Jan. 7, 20ll.
1960s
James and emily (romberger, B.mus. ‘03) harrill welcomed their first child, hannah Eden, into their family on April 15, 2011.
rob (B.a. ‘08) and karissah (gersch; B.a. ‘09) holmes welcomed their first child, Shiloh David, into their family on May 18, 2011.
1940s
Remembering Ryan davis Alumnus and staff member at Cornerstone University, Ryan Davis, 28, passed away on May 22, 2011. He left behind his wife of six years, Emilie Davis (B.A. ’04), and was a central figure in the life of our campus community. Most people in his inner circle were persuaded to ride motorcycles after watching Ryan’s passion and fun with the hobby. He was a resident director at CU for several years and impacted hundreds of students’ lives as he walked with them through the joys and struggles of everyday college life. He was someone who wasn’t afraid to share tough news with people, yet he was also someone who people regularly came to in their toughest and most difficult moments. His life exemplified I Thessalonians 2:8 – “Because we loved you so much, we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well.”
2000s denver parler (B.a. ’05) announced his engagement to Megan Curl of new port richey, fla., on May 13, 2011.
When you share your union, we will send you two metal alumni association tags to celebrate your future travels together.
Cornerstone University Alumni Journal
16
milestones
1950s dr. elwood chipchase (attended ’54-’58) recently became the chaplain of Bibleville Conference Grounds in Alamo, TX after retiring from 38 years as president of Calvary Bible College and Seminary.
1970s sharon r (swift) Bergwer≠ (B.a. ’78) graduated with honors from the Master of Social work program at Grand Valley State University.
1980s tim manzer (B.a. ’81) was interviewed by focus on the family for their “parsonage” series. for a link to this interview on “Storms of Ministry” go to: www. parsonage.org/p2p/index.cfm. kerisa (mueller) myers (B.a. ’85) presented research at the national Coalition for Campus Children’s Centers (nCCC) in San Diego, April 7, 2011. The presentation was titled, “Child Care at higher Education Campuses: Director perception.” She also attended the ACSi forum for Christian Teacher Educators May 26-28 in Colorado Springs, CO.
2000s
kelsey rottiers (B.mus. ’08) released her second album in the spring. if you are interested in the MLive. com article featuring her, visit mlive.com. derek stogner (B.s. ’08) helped produce the first feature film release from release pictures, LLC, a faith based mystery/drama called “The nothing.” This film was an official selection of the 2011 nashville film festival in the categories of producer/writer/actor. for more information, visit thenothingmovie.com. ravae Wilson (B.a. ’08) was honored with a masters degree in counseling and psychology from Moody Theological Seminary in December 2010. cheryl mohr (B.s. ’09) was a presenter at the recent CAAhE conference in kansas City, MO., June 8-10, 2011. The presentation focused on faculty communication in an accelerated learning environment. l.a. lyles (B.a. ’11) took first place with her team in the Campus Movie fest Cannes Edition filmmaking Competition in Cannes, france. The challenge was to create a five minute short film through all the phases of productions in one week.
kristin aardema Faigh (B.s. ’02) has been called to pastor at zion United Church of Christ in Missouri. kirsten rettig (B.a. ’03) furthered her education by completing a Masters of Science in Management
17
Remember • Summer/Fall 2011
Q&a
degree from Mount Vernon nazarene University in July, 2010
When you share a milestone, we will send you a CU alumni association cell phone holder.
share your neWs We are eager to hear from the rest of you! Share events in your life, including answers to prayer; professional accomplishments – none are too small; books authored; albums released; graduate degrees or awards; honors received; additions to your family; alumni to honor. Please include a photo to post on the website version of your story. www.cornerstone.edu/ shareyournews
For our next issue of the Alumni Journal, we want to hear from you! The theme for our next issue is “Loyalty.” So here in the Alumni Office, we want to know your thoughts to this question: What is your level of loyalty to Cornerstone University and how do you express it? Email your responses to alumni@cornerstone.edu.
alumni pop QuiZ results! We had over 100 submissions to the “Alumni Pop Quiz” featured in the last issue of the Alumni Journal. Congratulations to Faith Gillette (B.S. ‘06), Keith Rockefeller (M.Div. ‘95), Paul Greiner (attended ‘80-’83), Kara Johnson (B.A. ‘10) and Ryan Avery (B.A. ‘05) who received a special alumni gift pack for their correct answers! Find out the answers to the quiz at www.cornerstone.edu/alumni!
The In stit at Corn ute for Chris tia erstone Univer nity and Cu lt sity pr esents: ural Engage ment
an ex amina tion of creati huma vity du n ring g rand rapid Sched s ’ uled to a rtprize ® appea r: Rick D eVos, M Join th . e Card, ic A hael lumni Don VIP
distance learning From cu
SChe dU
le thurs day, 5:30 p.M sept. 29 . – Din CArD nEr w iTh MiC hAEL 8 p.M. – ECC LESiAS Friday TES pL , sep Ay Assoc 10 A.M t. 30 Perin Con Seerve . – pAn ld, Rac i, Calvin visitin nection! You iation at the EL & DOn g he C and Be m pErin wiTh riCk tte Dic l Durfee 169 M this beautifu ust not mis U i DEVOS on kinson s ls 12:30 p . .M. – C you ca roe Ave NW pace, locate d at n stop rEATiV , Suite (LUnC fo 3 iT h inCL comm 50, wh r a bit un UDED) y pAnEL e o 2:30 p.M ArtPriz ®ity building f refreshme re .-5p.M. nt, and A e Tou & –C ArTpr lumni rs! izE ® TO U Vip COnn E UrS w satur iTh CU CTiOn day, o prOfS c 10 A.M .-1 p.M. t. 1 –C ArTpr izE ® TO U Vip COn nE UrS w iTh CU CTiOn & prOfS For more information on the Creativity & Wisdom Conference, visit www.cornerstone.edu. For more information on the CU VIP Connection, email nicole.bragenzer@cornerstone.edu.
Cornerstone University’s distance learning program, CU Online, offers seven degree programs sure to boost your career and certain to help you Build a Life that Matters. • Bachelor of Science in Ministry Leadership • Master of Arts in Biblical Studies • Master of Arts in Education • Master of Arts in Ministry Leadership
• Master of Arts in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages • Master of Business Administration • Master of Science in Global Trade
For complete details and registration steps, visit online.cornerstone.edu today!
w
u
visit us at www.CUBooksOnline.com
www.CUBooksOnline.com
Join us for an Alumni VIP Reception at
Arsenic & Old Lace By: Joseph Kesselring | Presented by Cornerstone University Theatre
You won’t want to miss Cornerstone University Theatre’s presentation of Arsenic and Old Lace or the chance to spend intermission like a VIP with Alumni Relations! We have a space reserved just for you to reconnect with other alumni, the alumni relations staff and enjoy some refreshments that take their cues from the show! Alumni VIP Reception: Join us Oct. 27 during intermission of the 7:30 p.m. performance Visit www.cornerstone.edu/alumni/connect/events or email nicole.bragenzer@cornerstone.edu for details! additional performance dates/times: Oct. 21, 22, 27, 28, 29 at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 28 at Midnight | Oct. 30 at 2:30 p.m. location: Matthews Auditorium, Grand Rapids Theological Seminary tickets: $12 adults, $10 students/seniors For more information on this production or to order tickets, call 616.516.0000 or visit www.cornerstone.edu/arsenicandoldlace.