The Magazine of Eastern University
SPRING 2022
EASTERN multiply
A God who multiplies and keeps promises.
multiplies promises.
Dear Alumni and Friends,
“Look up at the sky and count the stars,” God prompts a discouraged Abraham, desperate for a son. “As many stars as there are in the night sky, so shall your offspring be.”
When Abraham reveals his doubt in God’s promise, God directs him to the night sky and says, “See! You don’t understand my ways, but I always fulfill my promises and provide, just like I fill the night sky – abundantly and overwhelmingly.” What a picture of generous promises! Abraham had faith, and in God’s timing, God provided Sarah and Abraham with a son, Isaac.
Now imagine yourself among the hungry crowd sitting under Jesus’ teaching. Your stomach rumbles, you didn’t bring lunch, and there are no local food carts. With the famished state of the crowd evident, a small boy, ushered forward by disciples, approaches Jesus and extends his hands to offer his five loaves of bread and two small fish.
“How can a handful of fish and bread satisfy a crowd like this?” you wonder.
Jesus smiles, accepting the humble offering. In another amazing miracle of multiplication, he holds them up, thanks God for this selfless act, and performs one of his most widely recounted miracles: multiplying the loaves and fish to feed the thousands.
What an incredible God we serve – a God who takes our hesitancies, doubts, and limited offerings and multiplies them into blessings and provisions beyond comprehension!
As you continue reading, my prayer is that your faith would increase like Abraham and Sarah and this unnamed, bread-bearing boy. Let’s join them in giving what we have to Jesus, who takes our offerings, thanks his Father for them, and multiplies their impact for the good of more people than we can imagine now and into the future.
With you on the journey,
Ronald A. Matthews, President
To reflect on our theme of "Multiply," we surveyed our current student body to hear the ways they’ve observed multiplication in their own lives this semester.
Men’s
ACADEMICS
A Dean’s reflection encourages us to posture our hearts to embrace multiplication in a healthy way. Palmer Seminary hosts its first annual Science and Religion Symposium.
FEATURE: MULTIPLY
Healthy organizations multiply, and Eastern is multiplying in every direction! As you read through these articles, we invite you to join us in celebrating Eastern's lasting legacy and bright future.
publisher / KELLY GODDARD
Editor & Producer / ALLY (HOLMES) ROSARIO ’ 14, MEd ’21
Creative Director & Lead Designer / DANIEL PEIRCE
Photographer & Cover Photography / ELYSE GARNER ’ 1 3
Designer / ALAINA MOSSO
ADDITIONAL PHOTO & ILLUSTRATION CREDITS / GREG BENSON PHOTOGRAPHY (6-7)
BRIANNA LYNN (22-23)
JASON JAMES (32)
Please send comments or article suggestions to: media@eastern.edu
Alumni news should be sent to: alumni@eastern.edu
Palmer Seminary alumni news should be sent to: palmeralum@eastern.edu
Read inspiring stories of Eastern and Palmer alumni who share about God’s provision in and through their lives.
PUBLISHED BY Marketing and Communications at Eastern University ONLINE AT eastern.edu/MAGAZINE
STUDENT CORNER
STUDENT MUSINGS ON MULTIPLICATION
Throughout Scripture, we see God’s provision and promises multiply for His people. As a faith community, we firmly know and believe that the same process happens today in our Eastern community.
To reflect on and celebrate this theme, we surveyed our current student body to hear the ways that they’ve observed multiplication in their own lives this semester.
What's
something
in your life that you would love to see multiplied?
“I’ve enjoyed seeing my creative side come out in the past couple of years, but now I would like to refine it and expand upon it, so that I can make practical use of my skill. While I do enjoy writing simply for the sheer joy of it, I would like to use my gift to bless others in whatever way possible.”
– Justin Higgins ’21, MA ’24, Counseling Psychology
“I would love to see my ‘list of gratitude’ multiply. I am working on being thankful, and showing gratitude for things present in my life. As Scripture says, ‘In all things giving thanks, for this is the will of God.’ I would like to be more present, so that I am able to actively align myself to the many blessings that God blesses me with each day.”
– Tammy Johnson ’22, PK-4 Post Baccalaureate
What
has been a way that you have seen God’s provision this semester?
“Senior year has been tough trying to think about the future. It's easy for me to get overwhelmed and want to figure everything out on my own. But God has shown me time and time again that He will provide for me–financially, with work, and with strength. He brought me to Eastern when I felt like I had no idea what to do after high school, and I know He will lead me somewhere right for me again after I graduate from college.”
– Kari Miller ’22, Social Work
“At the beginning of the year, I felt like I was stuck in a desert. One of my most important goals was to get into grad school – I had previously been working for 20 years and professionally had come up against a wall. But I live by God's words every day, and without the guidance I find in Him and His wisdom, I would have been consumed by the darkness of this world. Eastern, a Christian university, has been a beacon of light I’ve found in this dark period. I am grateful for Eastern’s MBA & MS in Data Science.”
– Anh-tu Hoang MBA/MS
’24,
Organizational Management
and Data Science
What are some of your favorite things that you can see “growing” on campus right now?
“I can see a lot of friendships growing between unlikely people, or people you think would be so different from each other being close friends.”
– Ashley Eatmon ’22, Health Science
“The tulips that are beginning to peek through the soil! It is such a subtle and beautiful sign of flourishing in the world. We are coming out of a long winter, but the world is growing and blooming, and so are the students at Eastern. I'm so happy with who I have met this year, and the blossoming that the people around me are going through.”
– Eden Locke ’ 22, Social Work
“Our community. Eastern is growing in our community through the inclusion we have around campus. This is seen through the many conversations about hard topics that are being had within the many departments of Eastern.”
– Kambrie Tresko ’24, Psychology and Criminal Justice
The Joy of MULTIPLICATION
Healthy organizations multiply, and Eastern is multiplying in every direction! The last few years have brought significant growth, a variety of innovative programs, exciting new athletic offerings, and thoughtful updates to our vision, mission, and core values statements.
All of this multiplication is cause for celebration! As you read through the next several articles, we invite you to join us in thanking God for Eastern's lasting legacy and bright future.
FEATURE
Together as a community, Eastern updated and clarified our Vision, Mission, and Values this year
process of prayer, reflection, and discussion, we as a community are ready to share our updated statements with you.
of these statements – an ever-expanding legacy of a community that seeks to bring God’s kingdom here to earth.
We will be a university that champions active listening, affirming the dignity of every individual.
As a community of scholars, we will commit to lifelong learning and growth of the heart, mind, and soul.
We will be an institution inspired and motivated by the undeserving love of Jesus.
LOVE LEAD
As advocates and difference-makers, we will lead with integrity, boldness, and faith.
MISSION
Eastern University is a diverse, Christ-centered community preparing graduates to impact the world through faith, reason, and justice.
With Christ as the inspiration for our vision and the cornerstone of our mission, we make every effort to create a wonderfully diverse community that prepares our graduates to humbly, boldly, courageously, and confidently impact every sphere of their influence with the deep-rooted call to a life of faith, reason, and justice.
E xcellence
A uthenticity s tewardship
t houghtfulness e nthusiasm
We strive to achieve the highest standards in serving our community through distinctive academic experiences, student services, and community life.
We live with integrity and honesty, upholding the highest ethical standards as we seek to honor God with our lives, relationships, and work.
We treat our resources as gifts God has entrusted to us, including our earth, environment, facilities, and finances.
Inspired by our commitment to truth, we think deeply, holistically, and critically about the world God has given us, benefiting from the insights offered by each individual in our rich learning community.
Anchored by our hope and joy in Christ, we approach each situation with optimism, working toward favorable outcomes, and celebrating our successes.
r elationships
i n novation
With an attitude of humility and kindness, we honor and respect the dignity of each individual, promoting community, working to bring reconciliation to broken relationships, and championing diversity, equity, and belonging.
Promoting accessibility and affordability, we seek new and more effective approaches to education, exercising creativity to chart inventive paths forward into the future.
LEARN MORE: TO READ THE PRESIDENT'S MONTHLY EMAIL SERIES ABOUT THE CORE VALUES, VISIT eastern.edu/core-values.
4,8 1 5
STUDENTS
3, 1 74
STUDENTS
MULTIPLYING EASTERN
The story behind Eastern's 52% enrollment growth over the last 2 years
IT’S NO SECRET that enrollment in higher education has dropped across the country. Initiated by changes in the economy and accelerated by a disruptive pandemic, colleges nationwide have been experiencing disappointing declines.
by kelly goddard
So, what’s the secret? While many programs at Eastern have experienced growth over the last several years, the biggest increase has come from Eastern’s innovative new LifeFlex™ graduate programs, which feature fully online, flexibly-paced modalities with radically inexpensive price tags. For example, Eastern’s new MBA and MS in Data Science cost only $9,900 and can be completed in as little as 10 months.
This makes it all the more shocking that Eastern University has experienced a 52% increase in total enrollment over the last two years. From Spring 2020 to Spring 2022, we’ve grown as a university from 3,174 to 4,815 students.
I sat down with Provost Kent Sparks to reflect on the staggering growth of the last few years and what he sees ahead in Eastern’s future.
Q
& A
INTERVIEW WITH:
Provost Kent Sparks
Where did the idea for the LifeFlex™ programs come from?
KS: I’m one of those life-long learners, and I was personally interested in a new graduate program. I started looking around, and it really got me thinking about how someone already launched in life just isn’t looking to spend $40K on another degree. I started wondering, What if we could design a program that people could conceive of paying for out of pocket? I was trying to find the true win-win by focusing on what students need.
How does the LifeFlex™ approach align with Eastern’s mission and values?
KS: Eastern has always been intentional about incorporating our Christian faith into the content of our courses. But we really started thinking about what it would look like to also incorporate our faith-based values into the delivery and the price. We wanted to be as smart as possible with our students’ money, so we started dreaming about what it would take to offer people a graduate program that they wouldn’t have to go into debt for. The LifeFlex™ model allows adult students to work at their own pace, around their busy schedules. It allows them to achieve their dreams in an affordable, manageable way.
Were you surprised by the programs’ success?
KS: I always felt confident that the LifeFlex™ model would be popular, but I had no idea how fast it would grow. In the first term we offered the MS in Data Science, we had 92 students enroll, quickly followed by 100 more students at our next start term seven weeks later. Since then, the numbers have continued to climb. Over 2,000 students have enrolled in our LifeFlex™ programs so far.
the Lifeflex model allows students to achieve their dreams in an affordable, manageable way.
One of Eastern’s new core values is “innovation.” Why do you think innovation is so important?
KS: In the 80’s I worked for IBM during the peak of its success. At that time, personal computers were on the rise, but IBM just couldn’t bring themselves to believe that people were going to switch so dramatically from large computer systems to personal computers. As is well known, the company and its employees suffered because they were unable to quickly innovate. We serve a creative God who has placed creativity in each of us. I think that innovation is simply about coming up with new solutions for the needs of new generations. When we do this, we serve people well.
What’s next on the horizon in terms of innovative programming for Eastern?
KS: We’re hoping to launch a new series of adult undergraduate LifeFlex™ programs in order to reach students who want an associate or bachelor’s degree in a flexible format for an affordable price. While many undergraduate students will continue to choose our traditional on-campus experience, there is a large population of working adults for whom adaptable, flexible learning will open up a world of possibilities. It’s an exciting time to be at Eastern, and I can’t say thank you enough to all of the faculty and staff members who have worked together to make this exciting growth possible.
When Negativity Multiplies
How to Complain Constructively
by dean susan edgar-smith, Phd
WHILE MULTIPLICATION IS often a positive thing, I sometimes need reminding to not multiply that which is harmful. This kind of negativity is the direct opposite of what God intends for us.
As Dean of the College of Education, I’ve seen how difficult the last two pandemic years have been in general, and specifically for educators and families. Balancing “home” schooling, mask mandates for little ones, and student mental health without an end in sight has created a plethora of opportunities to feel discouraged and seek solace in negativity as a coping mechanism.
Recently, I listened to NPR’s much-beloved Dan Gotlieb describe new research on how to combat “the blues,” or negativity, by focusing on productive joy rather than detrimental negativity. The research-based data got me thinking about my own tendency toward complaining and its eradication of joy in my own life.
While it seems counterintuitive, exploring both the value and hindrances of expressing complaint is a good place to start. For this practice, I can think of no better place to start than the Psalms.
The Psalms as a Guide
For many, the Psalms function as a pathway to healing and connection to our God through prayer and recognition of God’s sustaining love. But the Psalms also show clear expressions of pain, wounds, and tribulations, laid out with pleas to alleviate them. Woven throughout these laments is a steadfast faith that God is a healer and a counselor who likewise shares our burden.
I believe that the healthy sharing of our burdens with God and others can certainly mend our wounds, and eventually lead to thoughtful solutions to problems and an end to harmful practices. Internalizing and ignoring suffering and injustice is dangerous, but we must ask: Are we abusing such practices?
Undue complaining quickly becomes a handy, overused crutch. While it may feel momentarily satisfying, it does little to resolve the suffering and injustice at a deeper level.
Purposeful Sharing
As in the Psalms, it appears that localizing our complaints and purposefully sharing them with God and a trusted group of individuals might be the best way to contain that negativity and keep it from multiplying. In the professions of education, counseling, ministering, and psychology (to name a few), we need to be careful about becoming a receptacle of these woes for too many people. Instead, we must
reflect our hope that is anchored in Christ. Amplifying hope is our target for multiplication.
As Christians who dwell in Christ’s light, we can reflect that light into the lives of others and ultimately find strength, encouragement, and joy in that process. If complaining remains at our core, it will eat away at our joy. In Paul’s letter to the Philippians, he urges his followers to combat this tendency by rejoicing and dwelling on things that are good
“Rejoice in the Lord always! Whatever is true, right, pure, lovely, and admirable—think about such things.” (Philippians 4, paraphrased.)
“Rejoice in the Lord always! Whatever is true, right, pure, lovely, and admirable—think about such things.”
(Philippians 4, paraphrased.)
Here is my encouragement to you: Pay attention to the injustices and inequalities around you - they are real!
Share your thoughts with those you trust.
Practice moving forward into grace, joy, and reconciliation through Christ.
I pray you will continue to bring the light of Christ into your community, family life, workplace, and friendships. Here’s to multiplying the good and curbing the unhelpful!
Susan Edgar-Smith, PhD is Dean of the College of Education.
The Psalmist writes, 'The heavens declare the glory of God,' and I believe that is on full display...”
THIS SPRING , millions of Christians around the world received ashes on their foreheads and were told, “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return.” It’s a somber reminder of our temporary place in the universe meant to inspire humility and contrition on the first day of Lent.
This year, as I was preparing ashes, I rewatched the recordings of Palmer Seminary’s first Science and Religion Symposium, and I began to see the entire ritual in a new light. The “dust” of our being becoming part of the building blocks of all living creation echoes the brief and beautiful moment in which dust has an opportunity to know itself and its creator.
The Psalmist writes, “The heavens declare the glory of God,” and I believe that is on full display as we study the natural sciences. God, the Creator, created a creation that is so creative that it can’t help but to continue to create! Every act of stellar annihilation is also an act of creative multiplication, and we have the honor to see God’s works on display everywhere we look.
It was with this open spirit of wonder and curiosity that we set out to create The Palmer Seminary Science and Religion Symposium. The symposium comes as part of Palmer’s selection to participate in the Science for Seminaries project, which is made possible by the American Association for
the Advancement of Science (AAAS) through their Dialogue on Science, Ethics, and Religion (DoSER) program, in partnership with the Association of Theological Schools (ATS).
Through this grant, in September 2021 we were able to hold a two-day event in which panels of local experts and keynote speakers explored the relationships between faith, ministry, astronomy, medicine, environmentalism, and life as we know it.
Palmer Seminary’s well-known motto is "The whole gospel, for the whole world, through whole persons.” We believe that in the 21st century, this means equipping faith leaders with the ability to navigate matters of science and faith. Through the blessing of this grant program, we have integrated science into several core classes, created the symposium, and are planning an array of additional opportunities for the coming years.
If you are interested in exploring faith and science alongside our community, all of the recordings from the symposium are available at palmerseminary. com/science. We also invite you to join us at the 2nd annual symposium this September! We are so grateful to all who have made this work possible, and we look forward to all the ways that God will bless our efforts.
Rev. Zack Jackson ’13 is Director of the Palmer Seminary Science & Religion Symposium.
By dan mouw
MEN'S BASKETBALL
Overcoming all odds, the 2021-22 Eastern University Men’s Basketball team set a program record with 21 wins, finished as MAC Commonwealth regular-season co-champions, hosted a Conference Championship game, and earned an at-large bid to the NCAA Tournament.
Coming off a difficult 2021 COVID-shortened season, this year’s squad established an identity early. The Eagles won 12 consecutive games before dropping a game at Messiah in late January.
The Eagles established their identity on defense but featured five players averaging in double-figure scoring. Each of the five starters led the team in scoring at least
four times during the year, and seven different players finished with team-high honors. The balanced scoring and pressure defense helped the Eagles to 21 wins.
With a 14-2 mark in the MAC Commonwealth regular season, the Eagles finished tied with Hood College atop the league. Eastern beat the Blazers twice during the regular season to earn the top seed, but Hood earned a 75-71 win in front of a packed house at The Nest in the Championship game.
Even with the loss, the team’s resume was strong enough to secure the program’s first trip to the NCAA Tournament where they gained valuable experience and a hunger to return.
FOOTBALL, CHEER, AND DANCE
In preparation for the launch of Football in Fall 2022, Eastern was pleased to hire Head Coach Billy Crocker, as well as an offensive coordinator, defensive coordinator, and special teams coordinator. A beautiful new turf field was also completed this year at Valley Forge Military Academy, where the Eagles will compete. Eastern’s Cheer and Dance teams have been performing at Basketball games throughout the 2021-22 season and are excited to add Football to their schedules this fall.
Dan Mouw is Director of Athletic communications at Eastern.
A PATH PAVED with Provision
By Devon Blackmun
An Eastern Love Story about God’s Providence and the Multiplication that Followed
I’M GOING TO TELL YOU ABOUT HOW A LONG-LOST, original Mozart Manuscript changed my life. Or rather, began it.
If you’ve stumbled across the history page on Eastern University’s website, or even heard a few wild stories, you may have heard of the time an accountant found an original Mozart Manuscript in the Palmer Seminary Library.
It was 1990, and this piece of history had gone unseen for years. It sold for almost $2 million. God was multiplying. The truth is, I wasn’t born yet, but I would grow up hearing about this story of God’s provision.
That money would be used to start Eastern’s music program. Fitting, right? It’s almost as if God intended for this lost and precious thing to be found at just the right moment in time.
Across the country, in California, a young man named Josh would soon pack up his grandfather’s pickup truck to make a very long journey. Josh knew he wanted to devote his life to worshiping God; maybe he’d even become a worship pastor someday. And now, this little Christian liberal arts college in Pennsylvania had exactly what he needed. God was calling him.
Meanwhile, a young woman named Corinne planned a graceful exit from her small town in Pennsylvania. She was on fire with a mission to make
a difference. In Philadelphia, she could begin her new life, helping and empowering others as a social worker. God was calling her.
Josh had been at Eastern a whole year before Corinne, but they met her fifth day on campus. I won’t say the rest was history because frankly, it was way more exciting than that. The two became inseparable. Their passions complimented one another, and they began to plan their lives together.
My parents got married right here on campus in Eastern’s chapel. And that’s how I, baby Devon, spent the first year of my life on campus. When I was three years old, we discovered Main Line Christian Fellowship, a church that eventually met on Eastern’s campus for many years. Many of my childhood memories include exploring Walton Hall, climbing trees outside McInnis, and feeding the ducks with my sister.
My parents began to break generational chains together. You see, this was the beginning of a new narrative they would write for their future. My dad became a worship leader, my mom a social worker, and both have been pastoring for the past ten years.
Not only did God provide their way there, but He multiplied the outcome and their influence. The first ever graduate of Eastern’s music program was my Dad. And here I am today, on staff at Eastern, a place that will always feel like home.
SPOTLIGHTS
By Kendal Swartzentruber, PhD(c)
Kathy's vulnerability amidst the rigor of higher education is a reminder that hope, imagination, and self-advocacy are important in...life-long learning. ”
WITH THE BUZZ OF ANTICIPATION all around her, Kathrine Craig, PhD(c) ’24 stepped onto Eastern’s campus to begin her PhD in Organizational Leadership in 2017. She was excited for her first residency, but quickly became distracted by a sense of overwhelming ambient noise interference in her lectures that created challenges for her learning.
Kathy had always known she had some auditory deficit, yet being confronted with the profundity of her deafness in residency was a surprise that took the joy out of learning. The inability to hear was quickly becoming an insurmountable hurdle; however, Kathy was determined to search for options.
After multiple attempts to modify instructional content proved unsuccessful, Kathy reached out to several disability service providers, where she ultimately discovered her need for additional academic accommodations and the possibility of qualifying for cochlear implants. This discovery would transform her life forever.
In a 2017 email correspondence with a fellow cohort member, Kathy wrote, “I’ve just been approved for accommodations – in fact, this procedure set off a chain reaction with the possibility of qualifying for cochlear implants…They believe that they can restore 80% of my hearing – I am very excited at this prospect!”
Through God’s grace, Kathy qualified for cochlear implants which helped restore 95%-100% of her hearing. This life-altering intervention has influenced the way she lives and leads. Hope now cascades out of discussions with Kathy. Her experience of engaging the unknown is a prime example of how faith in uncanny moments yields unforeseen possibilities.
Kathy, now a Ph.D candidate, sits laughing over a Zoom call reflecting on how the events since that first residency have helped shape her call in life. Now an entrepreneur steeped in a plethora of opportunities, she is visibly excited by the growth of her collaborative business and mentorship model that elevates local vendors by highlighting their handmade craft. She also enthusiastically shares about her role as adjunct professor at Judson University emphasizing critical thinking and praxis. What was once an insurmountable hurdle has become her victory cry.
Kathy's vulnerability amidst the rigor of higher education is a reminder that hope, imagination, and self-advocacy are important factors in deeper, lifelong learning. Her determination plants the seeds of an inclusive future where all persons are given the opportunities to not only multiply their capabilities and supports, but influence the world for the better.
Learn More about the PhD in Organizational Leadership at eastern.edu/phd
2022
Distinguished Young Alumna of the Year
Maggie madimbo, phd ’13
Leading with Integrity
by autumn croy ’25
WHILE THE PATH WASN’T ALWAYS EASY, the journey that brought Maggie Madimbo, PhD ’13 to Eastern University has yielded a legacy of integrity and transformation for the youth in her country in Malawi, Africa.
Born and raised in Lilongwe, Malawi, Maggie’s passion for youth stems from a vision to promote change in her country. As one of the world’s poorest countries, Maggie describes the patterns of corruption and fraud that desperate people often fall into. “My passion has always been to equip young people who will lead with a difference and transform their communities with integrity,” says Maggie.
And transform communities, she does. In 2013, Maggie journeyed overseas to attend Eastern University and graduated with a Doctorate in Organizational Leadership. Upon arriving back home, Maggie was installed as the first Malawian and first female Malawian Vice-Chancellor of African Bible College in December of 2013. In this role, Maggie leads
and mentors students while fostering a desire for growth and learning.
“Young people are the best,” Maggie believes. “They are eager to learn, be influenced, and will use the positive influence they have to serve others.” Maggie’s mission is to influence young adults to lead their country and change the stigma of dishonesty and corruption. Maggie cares for her students and wants to see them succeed. Maggie’s heart for service stems from her desire to serve the Lord in whatever way possible.
“I always encourage others to lead with integrity. I lead in Malawi, Africa, where one of the main challenges of society is corruption. Being a leader of a Christian university that trains leaders who end up in influential positions, it is important to emphasize the need for integrity.” Maggie’s goal is to influence young people to lead with honor and sincerity. As a Christian, she believes it is her duty to multiply leaders that reflect Christ’s character.
Through her time at Eastern, Maggie was shown what good and honorable leadership looks like. She was reminded daily that her purpose is to live for Christ. “When doing my everyday work, I remember that first and foremost I am called to serve as a Christian leader, so I do my work fully aware of the need for good leadership and my need for Christ,” she says.
Maggie’s vision for raising up leaders with integrity is unfolding before her eyes. “I have seen it in the way the students serve others. Even beyond graduation, I see this growth continue to be reflected in our graduates as they shine for Christ whether in the public or private sector,” Maggie states. Maggie’s students are making a difference in their communities by living for Christ with the decisions they make.
“I have learned that people are good when given a chance. Learning to empower those under your leadership helps others maximize their potential and multiply their influence across our communities and beyond.”
Wild Generosity
"RUTH HAS COMMITTED HER LIFE to God's call of wild generosity," reads the nomination of Ruth Fox ’78, MA ’84 for Eastern University’s 2022 Alumna of the Year. After learning her story and observing the legacy she leaves behind her, it is clear that this generosity more than qualifies her for this honorable award.
Growing up in both Myanmar and India as a child, the international community has always held a special place in Ruth’s heart. Ruth found her way to Eastern and graduated with a degree in Elementary Education in ’78, followed by an MA in Religion in ’84 from Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary now Palmer Seminary. Soon after, Ruth and her husband Chuck Fox, MDiv ’83, settled into pastoring and parenthood and began raising their three children (two of whom would eventually graduate from
by aliia matthews
’20
Eastern as well). In time, both began sensing a new calling on their lives. Obeying the call, the Fox family uprooted their lives in 1999 and moved overseas to serve as Global Servants in Northern Thailand through International Ministries, ABC/USA.
Serving in Chiang Rai with the Akha Churches of Thailand, Ruth's joy was to equip the Akha women to monetize their beautiful embroidery work to bring income to their homes and villages, also supporting their children’s education – a passion of Ruth’s fostered during her time at Eastern. By welcoming these women into her home and developing the Akha Craft program, Ruth empowered the women to impact approximately 200 families within 15 neighboring villages. This generous hospitality is something that was modeled to Ruth
throughout her childhood, and is a legacy she hopes to leave behind as well.
While serving the Akha community, a new need presented itself regarding her children’s education. Ruth helped begin a homeschool co-op with four families that has since multiplied into 200 students from 15 countries. In 2011, this Chiang Rai International Christian School was officially approved and recognized as an educational institution that continues to serve the larger international community, especially missionary families, in Northern Thailand.
Currently, Ruth serves as Global Coordinator of Education for International Ministries, ABC/USA where she develops educational partnerships in countries around the world, helping to establish resources and support the educational needs of others. “God's church and Gospel are being multiplied, even as we speak,” Ruth shares.
Alumna of the Year
ruth fox ’78, MA ’84
It is encouraging to see how God has used every past experience to bring Ruth to this role where she can inspire others to follow the call that she answered so long ago.
A Lingering Imprint
by g. Peter schreck, professor emeritus interview by sanovia garrett, ma ’18
HER IMPRINT LINGERS on the lives and ministries of Palmer Theological Seminary’s international community and on all of those for which she made a way.
2022
Alumna Waymaker in Service and Ministry ruth mcfarland, Mats ’00
Ruth was born on a dairy farm in New South Wales, Australia, before moving to Sydney at age 11. Though she would describe her childhood as “ordinary,” her life would prove to be anything but that.
Near her 21st birthday, Ruth’s father died. In his will, he left Ruth travel provision to Europe, where she would later secure an Australian Embassy position. This position afforded excitement—a trip to New York’s UN General Assembly—where she would soon accept a 5-year assignment. During a trip to the former Yugoslavia, she met Dr. Carl Henry, an Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary (EBTS) visiting professor. He encouraged Ruth to apply for an EBTS position as Advisor to International Students. Ruth began her ministry on Lancaster Avenue in 1970.
Two years later, the Registrar position opened. While Ruth desired to apply, others objected to the idea of a woman filling that role. Not deterred and backed by student and Board Chairman support, Ruth became the first female administrator at EBTS. Over the next 35 years, Ruth served the administration well. “I stirred up a lot of things. It took time, and we learned from each other,” she says. She also served the students of EBTS well, living life alongside them on campus.
Ruth maintained her role as the International Student Advisor through it all. She made a way for her students: securing visas and shopping lists, soothing cultural adjustments, and extending care to hearts hurting from family separation. She understood and advocated for them, as she was herself an “International from Down Under.”
Since retiring in 2005, Ruth has devoted herself to caring for the Seminary’s alumni community. She continues to “keep up with” the many decades of seminarians she has helped nurture. Ruth’s persistent care and relationship tending has made a way for Palmer’s current alumni chaplains to continue in the same spirit of waymaking.
“I have been stretched and enriched by this community – I count the many lives touched not as a multitude, but as blessings, recognizing God’s goodness in it all.”
2022
Lamplight Society Inductee
Meggin capers
The Ministry of Hospitality
“HOSPITALITY IS OUR MINISTRY.”
These four words are embodied in Eastern University’s 2022 Lamplight Society Award Winner Meggin Capers, Executive Director of Conferences, Special Events, and University Logistics.
The Lamplight Society honors a member of our alumni, faculty, staff, or administration who has left a legacy of light on the Eastern University community. You would be hard pressed to find a colleague or student that this light has not shone brightly on during Meggin’s near 20 years of service.
Natissa Kultan-Pfautz, Associate Vice President for Advancement, describes her time working for and with Meggin: “Meggin Capers– what's not to love? Megg is one of my truest friends and colleagues. She, in every way, embodies the characteristics of a servant leader. She is always
by efram harkins ’16
willing to listen, show empathy, fix problems before moving on to something else, steward what has been entrusted to her, and help others grow and develop. From preparing campus for a small lecture to managing the minute details of the Presidential Inauguration, she is the one you want in your corner and on your team.”
Echoing Natissa’s sentiment, Chaplain Joseph Modica shares, “If someone looked up the word 'dedicated' in the Eastern University lexicon, it would read ‘Meggin Capers.’”
This dedication to Eastern’s mission has always manifested itself in her commitment to her first priority, the students. Even amidst planning Commencements, managing COVID-19 protocols, organizing board meetings, and welcoming our summer guests, it is EU students that are at the forefront of Meggin’s mind.
“Meggin Capers offers a level of hospitality, warmth, and care for every person who steps into her office that is unmatched,” shares Eastern alum Ian Jennings. “I worked with Meggin for several years when I was in college, and she treated me like I was part of her family from day one. Now, every time I come to visit her at her office, she tells me with enthusiasm and passion about all the projects she is working on. The Eastern University community is lucky to have a supporter so passionate about where they are and where they’re going—and someone who is eager to contribute in any way she can.”
These are just a few of the plethora of personal experiences that could have made it to print. Personally, Meggin has both guided me as a student, a young man starting his career, and as a dear friend. I am honored to work alongside such a bright and shining light of our community.
Alumni Class Notes
Eastern and Palmer Alumni Class
Notes
1940 S
Norman Gottwald, BATHB ’49 recently moved to Berkeley, CA and has enjoyed 50+ years of life in ministry including serving as the President of the Society of Biblical Literature, receiving the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Letters from the University of Sheffield, England, and has several publications including a new one projected for 2023 on the importance of biblical prophecy for today.
1950 S
John Bartol, BD ’55 feels his time at Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary seems to be more meaningful to him now than ever, and he thanks God for his time here. After reflecting on decades of ministry in the church with fellow pastors, all agreed that the most important aspect of ministry is the relationships you build with people. John lives in Nova Scotia, Canada; he is still active even in retirement, and he writes a weekly column for a local newspaper.
1960 S
Cyril Johnston ’65, MDiv ’69 serves as interim pastor to regional churches and is a certified professional life coach. Cyril ministers to pastors and other leaders and continues his music ministry, writing, and performing.
J. Elliott Stabler, BD ’66 turned 80 on May 1, 2021. Elliott and his wife, Elaine, celebrated their 53rd wedding anniversary May 13, 2021. They have one daughter, Elizabeth. She and her husband have three children, and Elliott and Elaine have a great granddaughter!
Robert Ayars, MDiv ’69 remarried to Judith Hoffman in 2011 after wife Nancy's passing in 2009. Together, Judith and Robert have six adult children, 13 grandchildren, and four great granddaughters. He “retired” in 2004, but has only been unemployed since November 2020 after two retirement interims and a part-time pastorate for 12.5 years. In 2006, his retirement included a summer campground experience for family, adding an in-ground pool and a garden. Judith and Robert are in good health for being in their upper 70s, and they praise the Lord for His wonderful grace for salvation and His keeping power daily! They extend a great big “thank you” to the Palmer (EBTS) family!
1970 S
Richard A. Kauffman, MDiv ’71 retired from the Christian Century Magazine as senior editor/book review editor in 2016. Since then, Richard has served in two interim pastorates. He is currently an interim member of the pastoral team at Berkey Ave Mennonite Fellowship in Goshen, IN.
In April 2020, Charles Schwarz ’71 moved from Philadelphia, PA, to Alexandria, VA.
Marcia Patton, MAR ’73, MDiv ’84 just published with Judson Press, Sacred Decisions: Consensus in Faith Communities, a practical book about what consensus is and how to use it. Marcia wrote with co-author, Quaker Nora Percival.
1980 S
Joseph DiPaolo, MDiv ’88 is lead Pastor at First United Methodist Church in Lancaster City. First UMC has partnered with Anchor Lancaster to open a warming room at First UMC for those who don’t have a warm place to go.
1990 S
Sherman Morrison's ’90 debut novel When Willows Weep was just published. Themes in this middle-grade novel include the intersections of compassion and combat, faith and fantasy, rejection and redemption, free will and fate, and ecology and education.
Daniel Pascoe Aguilar, MDiv ’94 was announced as Founding Director of the Center for Social Justice and Chief Diversity Officer at Excelsior College, Albany, NY.
James Moore, MDiv ’95 and Banu Moore, MDiv ’96 celebrated the 25th anniversary of their ordinations in Presbyterian Church U.S.A. They reside in Auburn, NY.
Dr. Randolph Walters, MA ’95, MTS ’96 was recognized by the Global Forum for Education and Learning for excellence in teaching.
Paul Prochazka, MDiv ’97 was installed as Pastor at Lakeview Baptist Church, Battle Creek, MI.
2000 S
Neeka Stanley ’01 was awarded the RI-NASW Clinical Social Worker of the Year, 2021. Neeka is living with her wife and their two daughters in Rhode Island.
Andre Price BA ’07, MDiv ’10 was named as Bishop Thomas Hoyt Fellow for the Fall of 2022
EASTERN UNIVERSITY AND PALMER SEMINARY IN MEMORY BY CLASS YEAR:
1940s
Georgette Wrobbel, BRE ’46 / November 19, 2021
1950s
Walter Carvin, BD ’53 / December 12, 2020
Terry Burch, BD ’56 / August 5, 2021
John Irwin, BD ’56 / October 27, 2021
Philip Brown BA ’56, BD ’59, THM ’70 / June 18, 2021
Albert Darlington BA ’57 / October 22, 2021
Paul Green BA ’57, DMin ’85 / January 2, 2022
Hays Wiltshire, BD ’58 / July 2021
1960s
Paul Jackson, MDiv ’60 / October 7, 2021
William Waterston, BD ’62, MDiv ’73 / September 2021
Faith Walsh, MRE ’63 / November 3, 2020
Catherine Wrisley BA ’63 / September 12, 2021
William Scarle, Jr., THM ’64 / January 2021
David Brown, BD ’64 / December 27, 2021
Clarence Wilson, BD ’64 / April 9, 2017
James Williamson, BA ’67 / October 21, 2021
James Biggs, MDiv ’68 / May 30, 2019
1970s
Peter Harris, MDiv ’73 / September 22, 2021
Paul Schultz, MDiv ’74 / August 13, 2021
Joseph Sastic, DMin ’76 / March 8, 2020
1990s
Frank Rupp BA ’96
Jeffrey Martin BA ’99 / September 17, 2021
2000 s
Barbara Frohock, MDiv ’04 / December 12, 2021
Theresa Quirk BA ’04 / May 11, 2021
2010 s
Douglas Yancy, Sr., MDiv ’14 / February 4, 2022
Robert Bonner BS ’16 / April 30, 2021
Kimberly Shatzer, PhD ’17 / January 25, 2022
Catherine Delp, MS ’19 / August 25, 2021
STAFF / BOARD MEMBERS / TRUSTEES
Priscilla Kelso / September 15, 2021
Dr. Roy Kim / February 2, 2022
Dr. John Stapleford / August 25, 2021
Eric Zee / July 2, 2021
at the Collegeville Institute, MN. Andre is a PhD candidate, specializing in constructive theology and Christian ethics at Villanova University, and serves as the senior pastor of the Mount Olivet Tabernacle Baptist Church, Philadelphia, PA.
1MISSION released a short film called Dreams, which Tim Hoiland, MA ’09 wrote, directed, and edited. It was filmed on location in Puerto Peñasco, Mexico.
2010 S
Fred Marz, MDiv ’12 retired from full-time ministry at United Methodist Church pastorate in July 2021. He and his wife, Peggy, look forward to their next adventure – not retirement, but a continuous vacation. The couple intends to enjoy time with their grandchildren, raise chickens and bees, tend to the garden, read the books in Fred’s “good reads” stack, and contemplate God’s grace more deeply.
Danielle L. Brown, DMin ’13 was elected the tenth Senior Pastor of the Shiloh Baptist Church in Plainfield, New Jersey. She is the first woman to hold this position since the church’s founding in 1908.
Wakaki Thompson, MDiv ’14 was installed as Pastor of Macedonia Baptist Church, Newtown, PA.
Bryan Stafford, MDiv ’15 and Jamilla Butler Stafford, MTS ’15 began the "Faith in the Family Podcast,” helping Christian families handle issues related to faith, mental health, and relationships.
Joan Davis, MDiv ’18 made AME history in December of 2021. Joan was ordained as both Itinerant Deacon and Itinerant Elder in the African Methodist Episcopal Church on the same day. She currently serves as an Associate Minister at Mt. Zion AME Church in Norristown, PA and recently celebrated the publication of her first book in September 2021.
Mary McCloy, DMin ’18 recently published her first book: Reforged: A Journey of Brokenness and Healing. It is currently available in paperback and Kindle formats on Amazon.com
David Smith, MDiv ’18 was installed as Senior Pastor for the Church of the Redeemer Baptist, Philadelphia, PA.
Laura Hart, MA ’19 is now a BCBA and working as a program supervisor at an ABA therapy center for children with autism.
2020 S
Jovan Moore, MDiv ’20 was ordained as Itinerant Elder in the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Jovan serves at Union AME Church in Philadelphia, PA and is the Principal of Girard Academic Music Program in the School District of Philadelphia.
