EASTERN | 100

Celebrating a Century of God's Faithfulness SPECIAL EDITION

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LASTING

LEGACY FLOURISHING FUTURE

Dear Alumni and Friends, One hundred years ago, a vision set in place by six courageous pastors set the trajectory for a lasting legacy. The investment made in that room on Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, went far beyond the $26.00 of seed money that Rev. Dr. John Hainer placed on the table – it was an investment of mission, prayer, and unwavering faith.

A century later, we share the privilege of celebrating this legacy with Eastern University’s flourishing future at the forefront of our mind. I am overcome with a deep sense of humility and gratitude when I reflect on the role each of us has had the privilege to play in the long and vibrant history of our school.

Our Centennial verse, Psalm 100:5, declares, “For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.” We have seen this enduring love at work in the life of our institution! The same faithfulness and love that carried our founders through the unknowns of our early years have sustained and encouraged us through decades of celebrations, trials, fears, and joys. The surety of God's enduring love is the cornerstone of our community.

As you continue reading and see the common thread of this faithfulness woven through each and every page, my prayer is that you reflect not only on how it has been a foundation for Eastern University, but how that same unquenchable faithfulness and love is available to you as well. We serve an awesome, all-powerful, and enduring God who remains steadfast through the ages. "Great is Thy faithfulness!"

From our humble beginnings as Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary to our thriving present-day University community of over 8,700 students, we are truly in awe of God’s work over these last 100 years.

Thank you for your prayers and support for Eastern University, and thank you for the part you play in this historic moment.

Better together,

Ronald A. Matthews, President

C O N T E N T S

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CHAPTER 1

CHAPTER 2

Lasting Legacy

People & Places

Since its founding, Eastern University has been grounded in

The vision for transformative education comes to life

a shared faith and a commitment to community. This chapter

through the people and places that shaped our dream. This

explores the roots of that community, the values that define

chapter honors the life-shaping spaces and trailblazing

us, and the people who have brought our mission to life.

leaders that advanced our mission in Christian education.

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EASTERN BAPTIST THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY

100 YEARS OF LEADERSHIP

The conception of our mission

The presidents who pioneered our history

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EASTERN COLLEGE

SPACES & PLACES

An expansion into faith-rooted academics

Landmarks of the century

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ESPERANZA COLLEGE

INNOVATION & EXPANSION

Inspiring and reaching the Latino community in North Philly

Building our future with campus enhancements

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Flourishing Future Looking to the future, Eastern University embraces innovation as a pathway to growth. This chapter highlights our academic and athletic advancements, new technologies, and campus improvements.

40 ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE Embracing this season of growth and achievement

CHAPTER 2

People & Places OUR MISSION Eastern University is a diverse, Christ-centered community preparing graduates to impact the world through Faith, Reason, and Justice.

publisher / KELLY GODDARD EDITOR-IN-CHIEF / ALLY (HOLMES) ROSARIO ’14, MEd ’21 Editor / ERIN AHLEFELD Creative Director & Lead Designer / DANIEL PEIRCE, MTS ’23 Designers / ALAINA MOSSO & KATIE SAMSON WRITER / HOLLY SCOFFONE

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ADDITIONAL PHOTO & ILLUSTRATION CREDITS / ANDREW HOOD (10) RLSP ARCHITECTS (38)

GLOBAL IMPACT

BEAU ROSARIO | PHILAMEDIA (45)

Legacy-shaping stories from 90+ countries

Please send comments or article suggestions to: media@eastern.edu Alumni news should be sent to: alumni@eastern.edu

46 ALUMNI

Palmer Seminary alumni news should be sent to: palmeralum@eastern.edu PUBLISHED BY Marketing and Communications at Eastern University

Spotlighting alumni stories and news

ONLINE AT eastern.edu/MAGAZINE

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PSALM 100:5

For 100 years, the Lord has graciously guided Eastern from our conception as Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary to our current flourishing community. Psalm 100:5 fittingly grounds our gratitude as we reflect on God’s faithfulness throughout the ages and the promise of enduring love for years to come.

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LN EA GMAE C Y

CHAPTER 1: Since its founding, Eastern University has been grounded in a shared faith and a commitment to close-knit community. This chapter explores the roots of that community, the values that define us, and the people who have brought our mission to life.

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100 Years of Visionary

By Dan garrison edwards ’11, mdiv ’18

On March 19, 1925, at two in the afternoon, six ministers gathered at 1701 Chestnut Street in Philadelphia to discuss their shared vision of Christcentered, world-changing education. It all started with a $26.00 investment.

The conviction of Revs. Charles T. Ball, Harry W. Barras,

20th centuries. Darwinism, archaeological discoveries, and

Groves W. Drew, Ralph L. Mayberry, John A. Hainer,

new approaches to Biblical scholarship sent rifts through

and Gordon H. Baker laid the framework for what would

Christianity in the States, prompting the founders of EBTS

become Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary (EBTS) and

to create an academic institution that was “conservative, yet

later Eastern University. The religious landscape in the U.S.

progressive,” with the salvific work of Christ serving as the

was in the midst of a seismic shift in the late 19th and early

cornerstone, grounding them in an ever-changing culture.

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“The salvific work of Christ served as the cornerstone, grounding them in an ever-changing culture.”

The summer of 1925 was devoted to designing an educational

Gardner, a female student, into the inaugural cohort. The curriculum,

philosophy and recruiting faculty. The Board of Trustees of this new

initially written entirely in longhand thanks to Adams' very productive

seminary purchased a building on South Rittenhouse Square and

weekend, was revised and adjusted over the first year to meet the

recruited a staff of nine full-time faculty and six additional instructors,

needs of each of those schools. In May of that year, the Seminary

intentionally made up of both men and women. With a week before the

celebrated its first 11 graduates.

start of classes, EBTS faced a critical challenge: it had no curriculum.

The Seminary's first president, Rev. Charles Ball, tasked William W. Adams with creating one over the weekend of September 19.

The next several years brimmed with innovation and experimentation.

In November of its first year, EBTS launched its initial foray into distance education. A correspondence program was created to

A few days later on September 22, 1925, the Seminary welcomed its

provide both pastors and laypeople affordable, convenient, and robust

first students, who were separated into four schools: the School of

theological education all through the mail. By 1930, the Seminary’s

Theology, the School of Religious Education, the School of Missions,

Correspondence Course received the endorsement of the Baptist State

and the School of Sacred Music. EBTS even welcomed Miss Edith

Convention of New York.

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EBTS continued to grow. More property

Under President Palmer, the Seminary expanded its mission, relocated to Wynnewood, and embraced broader societal needs.

was purchased around Rittenhouse Square to accommodate resident students. Dr. Austen K. de Blois was voted in as the second seminary president in 1926. Dr. de Blois, a widely respected scholar, aimed to build an institution whose graduates were as intellectually equipped as those from more established or historic seminaries.

He also developed EBTS’s iconic library, saying, “I see no reason why, by patience and diligence, we should not gather a thoroughly representative Baptist library which will compare favorably with any in the world.”

Over the decades, Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary continued to navigate societal and economic shifts.

Under its third president, Dr. Gordon Palmer, the Seminary moved in 1940 from the city to Wynnewood on Lancaster and City Avenues, where it would reside until 2012. Its commitment to providing theological training to those who normally would not be considered for graduate education led to the birth of Eastern Baptist College, now Eastern University.

SEMINARY MILESTONES

1926

1932

1990

2005

The Seminary celebrates

The Collegiate Division within

Mozart manuscript found at the

The Seminary is renamed

its first 11 graduates.

the Seminary is established.

Seminary sells for $1.5 million.

Palmer Theological Seminary.

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L E G A C Y

In 2003, EBTS rejoined the University and was renamed Palmer Theological Seminary in 2005 after President Palmer.

The descriptor “conservative, yet progressive” persists and is exemplified in Palmer’s mission, “The Whole Gospel for the Whole World through Whole Persons.” Palmer’s commitment to uplifting marginalized voices that began with female instructors later included faculty of color, such as Wallace Smith, Orlando Costas, and many others. The Openseminary program, online Master of Divinity and doctoral programs, the West Virginia location, and the Maestría en Estudios Teológicos en Linea all sojourn ahead on the trail blazed by the foundations established 100 years ago.

Through many transitions, some of which were not without heartache, Palmer Theological Seminary continues to

UNPACKING PALMER'S MOTTO

innovate to provide robust theological and pastoral training to the diversity of Christ’s Church across the world.

Inspired by the research of Randall L. Frame in Praise & Promise, A Pictorial History of The Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary.

B y D r . D e b o r a h Wat s o n

FROM THE VERY BEGINNING, the founders of Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary were committed to the spiritual and social implications of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. This commitment was memorialized in the motto, “The Whole Gospel for the Whole World.”

The Whole Gospel points to the all-encompassing “bigness” of the Good News that God has loved all people throughout history, offering forgiveness and new life to all through Jesus.

This motto, which for the past 40 years has included the addition “Through Whole Persons,” has guided both the Seminary and University for all of its 100 years in service to God, the Church, and the world.

The Seminary’s motto serves as a continual reminder that we exist to point all people to the Lord Jesus – God’s love in human form, our source of life,

2016

forgiveness, wholeness, and newness in this world and beyond the grave, and our hope in a world that is in need of it. As a result of this reality, we are transformed

Palmer Theological Seminary relocates

people who take our place in the ever-expanding outflow of God’s love in and

to its home on the St. Davids campus.

through Jesus, for the created world and the peoples of the world.

We are those people today, and pray we always will be.

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L A S T I N G

L E G A C Y

the

Th e Semin ary Add s a n Un d erg r a d uate C ol lege , then Expan d s in to a Un iv ersity By erin ahlefeld, with contributions by jean (Bartholomew) kim ’61

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EASTERN MILESTONES EASTERN’S 100-YEAR HISTORY is

Eastern we know today, faculty members

built upon a vision that began with the

would often begin class with prayer,

founding of Eastern Baptist Theological

ensuring that the school’s Christian ethos

Seminary (EBTS), whose legacy

permeated all aspects of campus life.

continues to shape the institution today.

Faith remained the cornerstone of the

The addition of a liberal arts college

institution’s identity.

to the Seminary was a transformative step that reflected the changing needs of students, society, and the institution itself. As the institution expanded, Eastern’s faith-rooted foundation endured, providing a constant guiding force throughout its progression.

The early years of EBC were not without their struggles. The College faced financial difficulties, enrollment challenges, and periods of uncertainty that threatened its future. Through persistence, prayer, a shared commitment to the school’s mission,

1952 Eastern Baptist College is founded as a separate institution and moves to the Walton Estate in St. Davids, PA.

1956

In 1952, Eastern Baptist College (EBC)

and the grace of God, EBC weathered

was established as a separate entity from

these storms.

26 people.

As the student body grew, it became

1971

EBTS as a response to a growing demand for a more robust collegiate education.

Many of the Seminary’s students lacked formal collegiate degrees, which limited their academic and professional opportunities. After purchasing and moving to the former Charles S. Walton estate in St. Davids, PA, the College began offering a four-year liberal arts degree, with a focus on laying academic foundations in order to train students for ministry and leadership roles. The decision to offer a full four-year degree

clear that it was essential to create opportunities for fellowship and social connection in order to develop a close-

1982 Eastern launches its first graduate

event where women asked men to be

program, an MBA.

their dates—and Senior Sneak—where the senior class would secretly escape campus overnight—became beloved aspects of student life that changed with each new generation.

Athletics, particularly basketball, also became a key source of school spirit.

equipping them with a broad-based

The basketball team was a center of

undergraduate education that enabled

energy, and students packed the gym

them to better serve their communities,

to cheer on their peers, creating a lively

the Church, and the world.

atmosphere on campus and a sense of

EBTS, it remained deeply committed to its faith-filled identity. Students were encouraged to take courses on religion, attend chapel services, and participate in spiritual practices. Similar to the

Eastern College.

Sadie Hawkins Day—a lighthearted

gap that students were missing while

planted on a different campus than

Eastern Baptist College is renamed

knit, communal culture. Traditions like

program helped bridge the academic

Although EBC’s geographical roots were

The first four-year class graduates

belonging. Students became interested

1987

in the College not only for its academic

Dr. Roberta Hestenes becomes the first

offerings and the opportunity to grow

female president in the history of the

spiritually, but also for the community-

College and Seminary.

oriented culture, which has grown

1995

even stronger today.

The Wanamaker Eagle statue is presented to Eastern College.

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L A S T I N G

L E G A C Y

“While the institution has grown and

EASTERN MILESTONES

changed over the decades and overcome many challenges, its faith-rooted foundation has remained a constant.”

1996

In 1972, after nearly two decades as

solidified the connection between

The Bradstreet Observatory is completed

Eastern Baptist College, the institution

the College’s theological roots and its

and named after Dr. David Bradstreet ’76.

changed its legal name to Eastern

expanding academic offerings, ensuring

College: A Baptist Institution.

that Eastern and Palmer’s commitment to

1999 The Templeton Honors College opens through gifts from Drs. John and

A few years later, in 1982, Eastern launched its first graduate program,

faith-based education stayed at the heart of its mission, where it remains today.

the Master of Business Administration

Today, Eastern University’s flourishing

(MBA), marking a significant milestone

academic community is a testament

in its development as a comprehensive

to the vision and persistence of those

Eastern is granted university status and

institution of higher education. This

who came before, from the founders

becomes Eastern University.

expansion was part of a larger effort to

of EBTS to the many individuals who

meet the evolving needs of a society that

shepherded and stewarded the growth

was increasingly seeking professional

of Eastern Baptist College and Eastern

and graduate-level education.

College. While the institution has

Josephine Templeton.

2001

2003 EBTS and Eastern University reunite and EBTS becomes the Seminary of

By the turn of the 21st century, Eastern

Eastern University.

College had grown into a vibrant

2020

institution, offering a wide array of

Eastern launches its first LifeFlex program

undergraduate and graduate programs,

and navigates the COVID-19 pandemic.

leading it to achieve university status in

2023

December of 2001. This status reflected

Eastern doubles enrollment through innovation and creativity.

its expanded academic offerings, larger

of students who have gone on to make meaningful contributions in ministry, business, education, and beyond.

institution, we do so with a deep

renamed Palmer Theological Seminary in 2005 in honor of the Seminary’s third president, Dr. Gordon Palmer. This move

L E G A C Y

constant, shaping the lives of thousands

the surrounding community.

rejoined the institution and was later

L A S T I N G

faith-rooted foundation has remained a

As we look to the future of the

step forward in 2003 when EBTS

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and overcome many challenges, its

student body, and greater impact on

Eastern College took another significant

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grown and changed over the decades

gratitude for our past and a continued commitment to providing faithcentered, transformative education for generations to come.

FAITH, REASON, & JUSTICE. Reflecting on Eastern’s Motto

with former president david r. black and President ronald a. Matthews THE MOTTO of Faith, Reason, and Justice,

was to distill their and Tony’s responses

shares, “What was originally our motto,

coined by President David Black, has served

into a short phrase that would capture

birthed from President Black’s forward-

Eastern as an identity marker for over 20

Eastern's unique character. The phrase

thinking vision, has become an integral part

years and continues to shape the mission of

that emerged, ‘Faith, Reason, and Justice,’

of our mission statement. We are empowered

our institution.

became Eastern’s motto, encapsulating

by Faith, educated by Reason, and mobilized

the ethos of the Eastern community and

to work toward Justice, following Jesus the

reflecting the way in which the Holy Spirit

Shepherd who calls his sheep to feed the

calls, informs, and forms students at Eastern

hungry, welcome the stranger, clothe the

for lives of transformational service.”

naked, visit the sick and the incarcerated,

Reflecting on the origin of the motto, Dr. Black shares, “Before joining the Eastern community in 1997, I asked Dr. Tony Campolo to describe what differentiated Eastern from

and care for the widows and orphans

other Christian and secular institutions. Tony

The phrase became so beloved and

responded with Micah 6:8, that ‘the Lord

descriptive of Eastern’s identity that in

has shown us what is good: to do justice,

2021, the language was officially woven into

Looking to the future, President Matthews

love mercy, and walk humbly with our God,’

Eastern’s updated mission statement, which

reflects, “My prayer and commitment is

and 2 Timothy 2:15, that we are ‘to study to

declares: “Eastern University is a diverse,

that Eastern University will be faithful to

show [ourselves] approved’ for that kind of

Christ-centered community that prepares

our mission of Faith, Reason, and Justice

goodness as a vocation.”

graduates to impact the world through faith,

in our distinctive space in Christian Higher

reason, and justice.”

Education, and that Eastern will generously

Dr. Black continues, “After joining the community, I asked other colleagues, alumni,

Reflecting on the lasting impact of these

and students the same question. My intent

powerful words, President Ron Matthews

(Matthew 25:35-36 and James 1:27).”

and positively impact the world until the glorious day of Jesus’ return.”

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L A S T I N G

L E G A C Y Esperanza College of Eastern University:

A Legacy of

HOPE

By Dr. Nilsa R. Graciani

AS

Over the last two decades, the College has grown

EASTERN UNIVERSITY celebrates its Centennial,

and experienced many changes. The name was

Esperanza College is proud

changed to Esperanza College of Eastern University

to be a part of that history

in 2005, the same year Eastern Baptist Theological

as we work to transform

Seminary was renamed Palmer Theological

the lives of our students.

Seminary. New facilities were opened, expanded,

In 2000, inspired by Eastern’s mission, President and CEO of Esperanza Reverend Luis Cortés

and enhanced. New academic programs were added. The student population shifted to include both traditional and Early College students. Yet in

formed a partnership with Eastern’s former

the midst of the change, what remains the same is

President, Dr. David Black, to create Nueva Esperanza Center for Higher Education (NECHE).

The vision was to create the first college dedicated to providing access to quality higher education and economic mobility to the underserved Latino community of Hunting Park in North Philadelphia.

Esperanza’s commitment to its mission: “to enhance the knowledge, skills, and outlook of young people and adults so that they can live even more thoughtful, positive, productive, and purposeful lives.”

Ultimately, the success of the College is

degree program, early college, dual enrollment,

The first cohort at NECHE consisted mainly of

measured by the difference that we make in our

non-traditional students. The majority were native

students’ lives. Maria Genao ’25, who joined

Spanish speakers, many with limited knowledge of

our Early College program last year, echoes the

English. A year after the pioneer class graduated in

sentiment of many, that Esperanza changed

2004, the College was awarded status as a branch

her life for good and provided the space,

Esperanza has opened many doors for the students

campus of Eastern University and was designated a

environment, people, and activities that bring

and neighbors that have experienced its programs

Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI).

her joy. “Just being here lifts my spirits and

and community. “My experience at Esperanza

helps me forget the difficult times I go through,”

College has been a memorable one and continues

she explains. Maria feels closer to achieving her

to transform my life,” Rosie shares. “Through

dream of graduating college and is appreciative

Jesus Christ and the Esperanza community, I have

of the opportunity.

become a better human. Esperanza College is a

One of the first graduates, Rosie Pagan ’05, shares: “I was looking for a place that genuinely cared about my educational, professional, and spiritual growth. Here, I could find all these attributes.” Rosie graduated from NECHE in 2005 and went on to

Esperanza College currently serves over 280

complete her bachelor's and master’s degrees. She

students and continues to plant transformative

now serves as an adjunct professor at Esperanza.

roots deep in the community. The associate

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and summer experience programs including education, Esports, and STEM all bring Esperanza’s mission to life.

beacon of hope in North Philadelphia."

Dr. Nilsa R. Graciani serves as Acting Dean of Esperanza College of Eastern University.

“

Through Jesus Christ and the Esperanza community, I have become a better human. Esperanza College is a beacon of hope in North Philadelphia.”

Rosie pagan ’05

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Celebrate with us as we look back on our Lasting Legacy.

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PEOPLE PLACES CHAPTER 2: The vision for transformative education would remain just an ambitious idea without the people and places that gave shape to our founders’ mission and dream.

This chapter reminisces on the life-shaping places that have established our community and honors many of the trailblazing leaders who have been vanguards in Christian higher education.

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P E O P L E

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P L A C E S

By chelsea post ’11

LEADERS LEAVE LEGACIES. Since its founding, Eastern has been blessed by transformative leaders who have guided and directed the institution while remaining faithful to its lasting mission. Here, we honor the seventeen presidents who have helped to steward Eastern's impact throughout the last century.

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1925-1926

Charles T. Ball

President of Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary Rev. Dr. Charles T. Ball was both founder and first president of Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary (now Palmer Theological Seminary) in 1925, as well as a professor of psychology of religion. A man of vision and a skillful promoter of the Seminary’s mission, he served as president for just one year.

1936-1948

1926-1936

austen k. de blois

President of Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary In the spring of 1926, Dr. Austen K. de Blois was recruited from his co-editor role at The Watchman-Examiner, a Baptist periodical, to serve as president of EBTS. The Canadian Baptist had a can-do attitude and a plan to match. His most memorable quality was his love of books, so it was no wonder that the Seminary library was named after him in 1936, as he had helped grow the collection to 8,000 volumes.

Gordon Palmer

President of Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary It is no surprise that the namesake

more difficult thanks to the country's

for Palmer Theological Seminary is

recession as well as World War II,

the longest-serving seminary president,

but Palmer was able to navigate the

Dr. Gordon Palmer.

stormy waters while simultaneously

Dr. Palmer served as a pastor and chaplain for the U.S. Army from 1917-1919. Known as a true man of God, Palmer was dedicated to lending financial aid to the seminarians, including the development of scholarships and other funds to aid the Seminary. This task was made all the

revising the curriculum and addressing accreditation. He is most well-known for moving the Seminary campus from Rittenhouse Square to Wynnewood.

Until its next president arrived in 1950, the leadership of the Seminary was placed in the hands of a Steering Committee, co-chaired by Dean Carl Morgan and Treasurer Harvey Bartle.

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P L A C E S He described himself as “theologically conservative, strongly evangelical, and in full agreement with Eastern's doctrinal statement,” and he loved to entertain Seminary and College faculty at his home.

1950-1961

1972-1973

President of Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary (1950-1961) & Eastern Baptist College (1952-1961)

Acting President of Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary & Eastern College

Henry R. Osgood

gilbert L. Guffin

Rev. Dr. Henry Osgood was a Seminary

Dr. Gilbert Guffin was soft-spoken and

alumnus and graduated in 1932 during the

1968-1972

cultured, a very spiritual leader of the institutions and a natural problem solver.

Guffin was also the first alumnus to serve as

J. Lester Harnish

President of both institutions.

President of Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary & Eastern Baptist College

In 1952, a dilemma arose: accreditation could

Dr. J. Lester Harnish was the sixth president

not be given while the collegiate department

of EBTS and third for EBC. Harnish was made

(started in 1932) stayed on Wynnewood's

president to "right the ship," as there had

campus, and so the search began to locate

been chatter about the seminary drifting

a home for Eastern Baptist College (EBC).

from conservative theological moorings.

Guffin led the purchase of the Walmarthon Estate, the Bonalthon, and Taggart properties and oversaw the transition of the collegiate department to the St. Davids campus, thus becoming president of both EBTS and EBC.

stabilizing and positive influence, attempting to build unity and harmony between the Seminary and College.

with positive responses to the Civil Rights movement – much of which could have been construed as radical during the time.

Smith was a student at the Seminary and later became the first African American professor, not to mention future president of the Seminary. In 1972, Ruth McFarland became the first female administrator in the Seminary's history as the registrar. And, in an effort to foster additional inclusiveness, Eastern Baptist College dropped the

thomas b. mcdormand

from 1972-1973, he covered the gap year as a

Much of Harnish's presidency was occupied

During Harnish's presidency, Wallace

1961-1967

de Blois presidency. As acting president

“Baptist” in its name in 1971.

1973-1981

Daniel E. Weiss

President of Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary & Eastern College New blood was needed at Eastern, and it came in the form of Dr. Daniel E. Weiss.

Weiss was the youngest president to serve the Seminary and College at age 35 and was a very effective fundraiser. His decisive leadership with balanced theological views also allowed the institutions to take steps to

Harnish was passionate about fundraising,

promote increased sensitivity and progress in

President of Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary & Eastern Baptist College

and was able to raise money for

race relations. Under his presidency, Ronald J.

improvements on Palmer Hall, including

Sider became the first non-Baptist professor

Energetic and witty, Dr. Thomas McDormand,

new apartments for married students

in 1978, and Orlando Costas became the

the institution's second Canadian president,

with children.

Thornley B. Wood Professor of Missiology and director of Hispanic Studies in 1979.

loved to send frequent memos to the community.

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1987-1996

Roberta Hestenes President of Eastern College

1983-1987

Robert A. Seiple

Seiple's suggestion to separate the

of Jesus Christ. While at Eastern,

Eastern institutions went into effect

Hestenes founded the Hestenes Center

President of Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary & Eastern College

in 1987 when two presidents were

for Christian Women in Leadership

assigned. Dr. Roberta Hestenes was

and received the Freedoms Foundation

The 1980s were a time of great financial

named the seventh president of Eastern

Award and George Washington Honor

crisis and turnover for Eastern. Amid this

College, and the first for only the

Medal for a leadership program entitled

turmoil, Dr. Robert A. Seiple entered as the

College. She also bears the distinction

“Taking Charge.”

eighth president of the Seminary and sixth

of being the first female president of

of the College. Seiple had served as a marine

either institution.

navigator during the Vietnam War, so he knew about handling rough waters and was qualified to suggest that the Board split the Seminary and College administratively for

Before leaving Eastern, Hestenes had overseen the beginnings of the Fast-

Hestenes was an advocate for diversity,

Track MBA and Degree Completion

a champion of justice, a protector of the

programs, ensuring Eastern maintained

environment, and a devoted follower

excellent academic standards.

financial stability. Unlike previous presidents, Seiple had no formal theological or pastoral experience but made up for it with passionate theological research.

1987-1989

Robert C. Campbell

President of Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary Dr. Robert C. Campbell was named the ninth president of Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary. An alumnus, he taught Biblical Languages at the Seminary and Religion at Eastern College. At 63, he was the Seminary’s oldest president and, unfortunately, inherited significant financial trouble. He did his best to shepherd the Seminary through difficult times before retiring in 1989.

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C EO OM PML UE N &I T PY L A C E S P

1981-1983 & 1989-1997

Manfred brauch

Acting President of Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary & Eastern College (1981-1983) Acting President of Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary (1989-1990) President of Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary (1990-1997) Originally the vice president, dean, and professor of New Testament interpretation at Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary, German native Dr. Manfred Brauch stepped into a brief role as interim president from 1981-1983 following Weiss’ retirement. He served in this role long enough that he is

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considered the fifth president of Eastern College, at least in a numerical sense.

Manfred Brauch also returned as acting president of the Seminary for a year in 1989 before being named the official tenth

wallace c. smith President of Palmer Theological Seminary

president of the Seminary in 1990. During his seven-year presidency, he helped turn

Before returning to the College, we

Smith presided over the final years

the Seminary around, keeping it afloat

must mention the last president to

of the Seminary at the Wynnewood

financially, spreading the Seminary's

serve the Seminary as a separate

location. While there, he celebrated

mission, and navigating growing pains. He

entity: Rev. Dr. Wallace C. Smith.

the Seminary's discovery of yet another

also celebrated the Seminary's successes,

Smith was president of newly renamed

famous musical composition, this one a

including the discovery of a Mozart

Palmer Theological Seminary, having

Beethoven manuscript that was sold for

manuscript in 1990, the establishment of

undergone its name change the very

$1.72 million in London. He also helped

the West Virginia campus, and even the first

year Smith was installed as president.

establish the Frank B. Mitchell lecture

website in 1996.

Prior to being president, Smith was

series, which continues to this day, as

well-acquainted with the Seminary,

well as the Smith School of Christian

having been a student and returning as

Ministry in 2009.

At the end of his presidency, Brauch started the Forward in Faithfulness campaign, paving the way towards financial stability for the Seminary.

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the first African American to become full-time faculty.

P L A C E S

as its president, who would become the longest-serving College president.

Black's presidency was marked by the apropos phrase, “a man of many hats.” Black first served as president of only Eastern College, then Eastern University when the

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R. Scott Rodin

Acting President of Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary (1997-1998) President of Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary (1998-2002)

institution obtained university status in 2001, and then president of both the University and Seminary in 2010 when Smith retired.

Enthusiastic and driven, Black also oversaw many of the changes on the University's campus, from construction projects to the establishment of Templeton Honors College,

Following Dr. Brauch, Dr. R. Scott Rodin

the School of Leadership and Development,

started as acting president of the Seminary

the Campolo School for Social Change, and

for a year before transitioning into the

Esperanza College. Thus, his stamp remains

official 11th president of EBTS from 1998-

on many aspects of Eastern’s current

2002. Similarly, Rodin was no stranger to

landscape.

2018-Present

Ronald A. Matthews President of Eastern University & Palmer Theological Seminary

As the 10th president of the University and 14th of the Seminary, Dr. Ronald A. Matthews has been a member of the community since 1992, when he first served as professor and then chair of the Music Department.

Matthews guided the University through

Eastern, having been the vice president for

the COVID-19 pandemic with the transition

advancement of the Seminary in 1993.

to temporary fully online learning. During the pandemic, the University launched a

The Forward in Faithfulness campaign

new series of fully online, affordable, and

flourished under his leadership, leading

flexible programs called “LifeFlex programs,”

to much-needed improvements for the

which proved to be highly successful. The

Wynnewood campus and the creation of the

University also updated and clarified its

Seminary's distance-learning program, which

Vision, Mission, and Values in 2022.

has only expanded since his departure.

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Robert G. Duffett

David R. Black

Matthews, enrollment has nearly tripled and

President of Eastern University & Palmer Theological Seminary

grown to its largest in the University’s history,

Ninth president of the University, Dr. Robert

to make an Eastern education excellent,

G. Duffett, was also the 13th president

accessible, and affordable.

of Palmer Theological Seminary.

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Since then, under the leadership of

As president of Eastern University, Duffett's

continuing to expand programmatic offerings

About the Author: Chelsea Post serves as Systems Librarian at Eastern.

largest contributions include creating a Campus Master Plan, reorganizing the

President of Eastern College/University (1997-2012) & Palmer Theological Seminary (2010-2012)

colleges and schools of the University, and

Following Hestenes' retirement in 1996,

Diversity and Inclusion Task Force to create

Eastern College hired Dr. David R. Black

and facilitate a more inclusive community.

relocating Palmer Theological Seminary to the St. Davids campus. He also oversaw the

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By Erin Ahlefeld

FOR OVER A CENTURY, Eastern University’s campus has

study spots to vibrant social hubs, each space has impacted

been more than historic buildings and pathways—it has

students, faculty, and staff, nurturing a community of

been a foundation for personal growth, lifelong friendships,

purpose and connection. Here are some of the most iconic

and dreams that have changed the world. From tranquil

spaces that have enriched our journey over the years.

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3.

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RITTENHOUSE CAMPUS

WILLOW LAKE

WYNNEWOOD CAMPUS

T H E P R AY E R C H A P E L

Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary was founded on March 19, 1925, in Philadelphia, with its first location at 1812-1814 South Rittenhouse Square. This site marked the beginning of Palmer’s mission to train leaders for Christ-centered service.

Willow Lake, a 1.4-acre sanctuary surrounded by century-old trees, offers students a serene spot to reflect and connect. Nearby, the Waterwheel, built in 1912 and one of the oldest operational waterwheels in PA, stands as a historic symbol of Eastern’s legacy.

From 1939 to 2012, the beloved Wynnewood campus was home to generations of seminary students. For 75 years, Palmer Hall served as the hub of spiritual formation and academic rigor, shaping the vision and mission of Palmer’s present-day identity.

The Prayer Chapel in Walton Hall has long been a sacred space for reflection, prayer, and worship.

Originally a billiard room in the Walton Estate, the chapel is now a sanctuary where the Eastern community can connect with God and pursue lives of purpose.

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6.

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WEST VIRGINA CAMPUS

THE LOG CABIN

ESPERANZA CAMPUS

WA R N E R L I B R A RY

Since 1993, the Parchment Valley Conference Center in Ridley, WV, has been home to Palmer Theological Seminary’s West Virginia program. Surrounded by natural beauty, it offers a peaceful setting for the Master of Divinity, Doctor of Ministry, and certificate programs.

Once part of the Walton Estate, the Log Cabin became a beloved student hub when repurposed

by Eastern Baptist College in 1953. It served as a symbol of the College's close-knit community and remains a cherished memory for alumni who recall countless moments spent there.

A beacon of hope in Philadelphia, Eastern’s Esperanza College has been providing accessible, affordable, and culturally relevant faith-based education for Latino/a students in the vibrant North Huntingdon Park neighborhood for over 25 impactful years.

Built in 1964, The Warner Memorial Library is a resource for Eastern students, offering research assistance and a quiet study place. The library honors Frank Warner, whose son donated generously in 1993. The Harold Howard Center honors former Vice President Harold C. Howard.

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OLSON FIELD

MCINNIS HALL

Named after alumnus and board member Chip Olson ’90, Olson Field hosts Eastern’s Division III MAC sports teams. On any given day, the field is filled with the energy of student-athletes competing and fans cheering from Kea-Guffin Hill.

Completed in 1972, McInnis Hall is the largest academic building on Eastern's St. Davids campus.

It features classrooms, offices, an auditorium, science labs, and a rooftop observatory—spaces that have inspired students for decades to pursue purpose.

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Celebrate with us as we look forward to our Flourishing Future.

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C LO OMUMR UI S F N HI TI N Y G

F U T U R E

Celebrating

Centennial Hall Recent renovations created a new Admissions Welcome Center within a building renamed to honor our Centennial Year.

By Kelly Goddard

THE LAST FIVE YEARS AT EASTERN UNIVERSITY have been a time of unprecedented growth, innovation, and expansion. It has been an absolute joy to be part of this remarkable season, as the arms of our community have embraced thousands of new students. Since 2019, Eastern enrollment has nearly tripled, growing from a community of approximately 3,000 students to nearly 9,000 students in 2024.

I’ve always loved the imagery of Isaiah 54:2, which says, “Enlarge the place of your tent, stretch your tent curtains wide, do not hold back; lengthen your cords, strengthen your stakes.” This year at Eastern, we’ve been enlarging our spaces to welcome our new community members. In the Marketing & Enrollment division, this has specifically included a new home for our Undergraduate Admissions team, including a beautifully renovated new welcome center and visitation rooms in the building formerly known as Eagle Learning Center.

Along with the renovations, the building received a new name to commemorate Eastern’s 100th year. Now known as Centennial Hall, this building is the first that prospective families see when they arrive on campus, inviting them to become part of Eastern’s lasting legacy and flourishing future.

While the new Welcome Center and Visitation Rooms mark Phase 1 of the Centennial Hall Renovations, Eastern also has plans to expand the building, including a threestory addition off the back which will include a large Great Room for Admissions events, as well as office spaces for our Undergraduate Admissions team.

We have loved welcoming prospective students and families into the new visitation spaces and hearing their delight over the beautiful renovations. The future at Eastern is bright, and we are grateful for the enrollment expansion that has marked our Centennial season, symbolically captured in the physical expansion of Centennial Hall.

Kelly Goddard serves as Associate Vice President for Marketing, Enrollment, and Communications.

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F L O U R I S H I N G

F U T U R E

athletics legacy By dan mouw

Growth. Community. impact.

AS THE UNIVERSITY moves into its second century, Eastern

Unprecedented Growth: The foundation laid when the University

Athletics is spreading its wings and ushering the University into

launched its first basketball team in the 1950s has developed

a very competitive athletic space. With the addition of new

into a flourishing part of Eastern’s campus life. Over the years, a

programs, investments in staffing, and strategic development in

total of 24 programs were added, with unprecedented growth

facilities, Eastern University Athletics is growing and poised to

happening over the past 10 years. The addition of Track and Field,

compete at the top of Division III.

Esports, Cheer and Dance, Marching Band, Men’s Volleyball, and Football programs during that time has helped grow the

2023 Over the years, our mascot, Beaker, has changed in fun and exciting ways. Take a look back at his journey from his early days to the

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1984 F U T U R E

2005

spirited icon he is today!

department from around 260 athletes in 2014-15 to nearly 700 athletes this Centennial year.

Enhanced Staffing: With that growth, the Athletics Department has been intentional in its staffing efforts, including hiring full-time head coaches for every sport along with assistant coaches and graduate assistants for most larger programs. Academic support professionals, along with strength, conditioning, performance, and wellness personnel, have also joined the department to care for our student-athletes holistically. Thanks to the support of our Athletic Training and Athletic Communications staff, the department will stream nearly 150 events in the 2024-25 season, and Eastern’s five fulltime certified athletic trainers will use nearly 75 boxes of tape to treat ankles, wrists, and knees.

Improved Facilities: In 2022, the University signed a longterm lease with Valley Forge Military Academy, which now provides an extra weight room for all of Eastern’s teams, as well as a home Football field and important practice facility for Track and Field. Eastern’s Softball Field had an overhaul completed in 2019, and Eastern’s Baseball Field, known as “The Yard,” has been under construction since the fall and will boast an entirely new facility with synthetic turf in the middle of campus. The turf field will limit the impact of bad weather on the schedule and will enable the program to compete for top recruits with the leading teams in the region.

Future Plans: Beyond the growth that has already happened, Eastern Athletic Director Eric McNelley has announced the University’s intention to add several more men’s and women’s sports thanks to the planned expansion of the indoor athletic facility on the St. Davids campus.

These additions will enable us to serve a larger and increasingly more diverse group of student athletes as we fulfill the mission of the University.

As exciting as the growth in athletics is on a University level, it is even more rewarding to see the impact that Eastern coaches, professors, and peers have on the lives of the student-athletes in our growing programs. Students are being transformed by their participation in Eastern’s athletic programs, developing character traits like perseverance, courage, faith, and teamwork that will stay with them for the rest of their lives.

Dan Mouw serves as Director of Athletic Communications.

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F L O U R I S H I N G

F U T U R E

Templeton Hall Embodying Wisdom, Tradition, and Beauty

“We

shape our buildings, and afterwards our buildings

But how will Templeton Hall embody our beliefs and shape our hearts

shape us.” These words, uttered by Winston

and minds? First, by supporting our commitment to pursue the True,

Churchill during debates about rebuilding the

Good, Beautiful, and Holy within a deeply formative community. The

House of Commons, capture truths central to

Templeton Honors College views education as holistic formation for

environmental psychology and the phenomenology

life-long flourishing. That kind of formation uniquely happens in the

of space: architecture both embodies and shapes our beliefs and

fulsome community this building will foster. Its classrooms will support

practices. The architects of Chartres’ cathedral, Oxford’s spires, and

Templeton’s pedagogical commitment to small seminars and its common

America’s skyscrapers created buildings through which they curated

spaces will encourage virtuous friendships and leisurely conversations.

cultures because no space is neutral and every space nurtures.

Templeton’s commitment to formation in community distinguishes it

This insight, that spaces become places within which people are shaped,

from institutions that reduce higher education to an academic factory

has guided the transformation of Workman Hall into Templeton Hall.

producing disciplinary specialists for the research university, a job center

Once completed, Templeton Hall will include seminar rooms designed

training skilled employees for the labor market, or a political foundation

for conversational pedagogy, common spaces to support friendships,

breeding the “right” kind of voters for election day. These merely modern

a library for study and research, hospitable spaces for guests, a gallery

approaches flatten the humanity of students into a single dimension.

for visual art, and a hall

Instead, Templeton honors the full humanity of our students and treats

for concerts, lectures,

them as capacious images of God intended to flourish in every sphere of

and worship. These

life—private, public, and professional.

spaces will become places that shape future generations of students and scholars, participants and performers, visitors and visionaries.

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Our commitment to the intellectual, moral, aesthetic, and spiritual formation of students alongside their professional preparation situates Templeton within the long tradition of Christian liberal arts education.

The classic design of Templeton Hall embodies our belief in the goodness of tradition and articulates the College’s commitment to the sifted wisdom of the past over the shifting sands of the present.

by Dr. Brian Williams

Templeton’s “Great Questions” curriculum introduces students to the collected wisdom of philosophers, theologians, poets, artists, and authors. Our commitment to begin contemporary questing with classical wisdom has been abandoned by many universities, hampering students by cutting them off from the curated insights and conversations of past ages. Templeton’s discerning affirmation of tradition is manifest in the traditional building materials and forms chosen to shape Templeton Hall.

The new building will also bear witness to the enduring goodness of Beauty, another belief abandoned by contemporary culture and absent from utilitarian classrooms that resemble hospital examination rooms more than hospitable living rooms. Instead, Templeton Hall will offer students an academic home of ambient beauty and reinforce our curricular commitment to Beauty and the arts, reminding us we are created in the image of an incarnate God who loves incarnate beauty that can bring refreshing delight to our weary souls and carry the Gospel to a weary world.

We look forward to seeing how Templeton Hall shapes future generations of students through virtuous Community, wise Tradition, and winsome Beauty. May this beautiful new space become a place

Partners in Progress Steve ’91 & Cathy ’92 Clemens share their vision for the next generations THE SPIRIT OF EASTERN UNIVERSITY is reflected in alumni Steve ’91 and Cathy (Cope) ’92 Clemens, who not only met and built their relationship on our campus but whose emotional, spiritual, and generous financial support has been instrumental in shaping the current health of the University.

Steve has served as the chair of the Board of Trustees for the institution since 2017 and has been on the Board since 2004. “Eastern is part of us," they share. "Supporting these

that glorifies God, manifests his abundant goodness, and inspires

exciting building projects that emphasize the mission

students and scholars to worship with heart, soul, mind, and strength

of Faith, Reason, and Justice ensures that the Eastern

for generations to come.

experience is available to others for generations.”

Dr. Brian Williams serves as Dean of the Templeton Honors College.

Steve and Cathy have also been key supporters of the Templeton Hall renovations and Eastern’s capital campaign, A Time to Rise. This project is particularly close to the Clemens’ hearts due to their relationship with Jack Templeton, founder of the Templeton Honors College, “a man of conviction, strong principles, and a rigorous pursuit of truth.” They truly believe that Jack embodied the values of Faith, Reason, and Justice and was an inspiration to those in pursuit of a faith-based education.

In the next 100 years, Steve and Cathy hope to see Eastern continuing to send graduates out into the world ready to lead with Faith, Reason, and Justice, while remaining dedicated to supporting the vision and mission of Eastern throughout their lives.

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F L O U R I S H I N G

F U T U R E

A Journey of Academic Excellence

College of Arts & Humanities Dean Timothy Brown

Spotlighting our Academic Colleges

“The College of Arts and Humanities (CAH) provides a transformative educational

By Erin Ahlefeld

experience that combines a broad range of arts and humanities fields with Christian values that enable

C

students to apply their knowledge,

elebrating a century of

creativity, and skills to impact

inspiring change and shaping futures, Eastern University highlights its many vibrant academic programs and their legacies of nurturing and

empowering inquisitive minds. Each of our academic colleges serves not just as a hub of knowledge and learning, but as nurturers of

the world. CAH has responded to the needs of students by expanding its academic offerings and incorporating real-world opportunities for our students to develop through the expansion of new programs and innovative course offerings, while also fostering opportunities for student leadership, mentorship, and more."

RECENT HIGHLIGHTS: •

Technology, Theatre History, and Dance Pedagogy meet the

invention and creativity. In our colleges, students and faculty collaborate to transform bold ideas

growing student interests and career demands.

•

and our world.

Community and Global Engagement: Many of our programs continue to engage in various outreach initiatives

into meaningful action, challenging the status quo, and molding the future of our university

Expanded Programs: New programs like Music

to engage the local and global community.

•

Expanding Facilities: Templeton Hall will provide new state-of-the-art spaces for the fine and performing arts, including a performance hall, art gallery, and recital spaces.

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College of Business & Leadership Dean Christa Lee-Chuvala

RECENT HIGHLIGHTS:

Tremendous Growth: All of our programs continue to grow, providing high-quality business and leadership education with a strong return on investment.

College of Education & Behavioral Sciences Dean Susan Edgar-Smith “The College of Education and Behavioral Sciences (CEBS) was

National Recognition: “The College of Business and Leadership (CBL) is committed to delivering

Our PhD Program was

started with a vision to prepare

ranked #3 among Forbes'

educators through the lens of

Best Online Doctorates in

Christianity, and that legacy has set

Organizational Leadership.

the trajectory for our robust programs

high-quality, affordable,

that we have today. For decades,

accessible education that

CEBS has utilized creative modalities

not only equips students

to equip educators to meet the ever-changing needs of students

with the essential tools and skills they need to excel in

Innovative Approaches:

business and leadership

Artificial intelligence (AI) is

careers, but grounds them in Faith, Reason, and Justice

rapidly transforming both the business and education landscapes, and we are

through staying abreast of trends in K-12th grade education.

CEBS continues to develop programming that prepares competent teachers in areas of technology and instruction by providing high-quality, affordable, flexible education.”

integrating new curricular

change agents in society.

RECENT HIGHLIGHTS:

approaches to proactively

CBL actively engages

equip students to use AI tools

•

students in hands-on

both ethically and effectively.

to become transformative

MEd in Educational Leadership, MA in Marriage and Family Therapy, Undergrad Psychology Flex program, and many certifications.

learning opportunities, such as internships, real-world

New Programs & Certifications: We recently launched our

•

Intentional Grant Application: CEBS faculty have secured

projects, and credentialing

numerous grants that greatly benefit our school, totaling

programs, to ensure they

over $2 million in funding.

graduate workforce-ready."

•

Culturally Relevant Education: The integration of Culturally Relevant and Sustaining Education Competencies prepares our educators to meet the needs of a continually changing student population.

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C O M M U N I T Y

Esperanza College

RECENT HIGHLIGHTS:

Acting Dean Nilsa Graciani Student Supports: We continue to meet our students' needs by offering academic and career advising, coaching, tutoring, clubs and groups, a food pantry, and additional supports including mental health

College of Health & Sciences

counseling, housing, immigration services, arts

Dean Tracey Greenwood “For nearly 25 years, Esperanza

and culture, and more.

“The College of Health and Sciences

College has been reaching the

(CHS) is at the forefront of equipping

Latino community of North

graduates with the knowledge, skills,

Philadelphia by providing

and ethical foundation needed to

quality education, much needed

thrive in fields that directly impact

community resources, and

events including the Early

the well-being of individuals, families,

hope to enhance the outlook

Childhood Education

and communities. CHS integrates

of our neighbors to help

Conference: Advancing

transformative Christian values into

them thrive. In addition to our

Early Childhood Education

our curriculum, preparing students to approach their work with

academic programming, our

both professional competence and moral integrity. The College

summer experiences for high

also fosters a culture of research and community engagement that

school students, including

addresses real-world challenges while providing our students with

career exploration, STEM and

and Health Career Series

hands-on opportunities to apply their learning in meaningful ways.”

internships, our education

as well as workshops on

workshops, our intentional

digital skills and well-being

Conferences & Workshops: We continue to host

in the Latinx Community, the Minorities in Health Sciences Symposium, Esports tournaments,

in the classroom.

RECENT HIGHLIGHTS:

community engagement, and our

•

Accreditation Celebrations: This year, we celebrate the

cutting-edge technology, tools,

accreditation of our MSW, BSN, and MSN programs, the 10-

and pedagogy have firmly planted

year reaccreditation of our Exercise Science program, and the

Esperanza within the community

50-year anniversary of our BSW accreditation.

of Hunting Park as an invaluable

New Program Launches: Launching the Master’s in Data

institution as we seek to close the

Science, Master’s in Social Work, and our online MSN has

gap and bring higher education

Students of America)

and a flourishing future to North

Team scored medals

Philadelphia by offering hope,

at the 45th State

grace, and redemption.”

Leadership Conference

•

been a point of pride for our college.

•

Pennsylvania School Nurse of the Year: MEd in School Health Services graduate, Emily Hunter, MEd ’21, BS, RN, CSN, was named the Pennsylvania School Nurse of the Year by the National Association of School Nurses for 2024.

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HOSA Team Places: Esperanza College’s HOSA (Health Occupations

of HOSA Future Health Professionals.

Palmer Theological Seminary & College Dean Kimberlee Johnson “The Palmer Theological Seminary & College (PTSC) at Eastern University is growing and expanding to extend the

Templeton Honors College Dean Brian Williams

reach of our lasting legacy and pave the way for a flourishing future founded on

“As we celebrate 25 years of the

Biblical and Spirit-inspired principles.

Templeton Honors College, we

From our Openseminary programs to

celebrate 25 years of pursuing

our Maestría en Estudios Teológicos,

the True, Good, Beautiful, and

Palmer’s mission to serve God and the Church by providing theological

Holy through our transformative

education for all types of ministry throughout the whole world is

academic culture and curriculum.

flourishing. Accessible theological education, alumni support through

As it has for a quarter century, the Honors College continues to shape

the CARES program, and a transformative seminary approach are reflective and honoring of the founders that came before us.”

thoughtful students determined to order their loves, worship God, serve their neighbors, and pursue the common good

RECENT HIGHLIGHTS: •

Science and Religion Symposium: Palmer continues to host a popular Science and Religion Symposium that creates

RECENT HIGHLIGHTS:

opportunities to engage in conversation around the intersection

•

of faith and science.

•

21st Century: Whole Gospel. Whole World. Whole Persons.” project.

outstanding educators for classical schools.

•

Templeton Hall: The current renovation and expansion of the new Templeton Hall promises to provide students

New Program Launches: Recent programs include a PhD in

with beautiful spaces for study, classroom conversations,

Professional Practice, a new LMin Cohort in Cuba, and the Doctor

community, and the nurturing of their faith.

of Ministry now available in a 100% online LifeFlex format.

•

MAT Program: Templeton’s Master’s in Teaching Program recently celebrated its 6-year anniversary of shaping

Lilly Endowment: The $1,250,000 received grant serves to cultivate and to strengthen PTS’s “Compelling Preaching for the

•

wherever God calls them.”

•

Summer Scholars Program: The celebrated Summer

Prison Education Program: This year, we graduated 24 students

Scholars Program for high school students returns in

within our Prison Education program and continue to provide hope

Summer 2025 with courses in “The Moral Vision of C. S.

for incarcerated students through our programming.

Lewis” and “American Revolutions.”

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100 years of

OUR EASTERN UNIVERSITY ALUMNI represent over 90

cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives. From our far-reaching,

countries throughout the world. This map illustrates more than

completely online LifeFlex programs to our flourishing Maestría

just individual communities; each pin represents a unique story,

en Estudios Teológicos cohorts throughout the Americas, these

a visual of the vast reach and collective impact of our Eastern

personal journeys enrich our legacy and empower Eastern’s impact

vision, mission, and values. Each pin reminds us that Eastern is

to extend to the ends of the earth.

more than an academic institution—it is a crossroads of diverse

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Coming to the United States and Eastern University was transformative, providing a supportive community to assimilate to American culture, a robust educational experience, lasting friendships, and an environment where I felt valued and challenged to grow as a disciple of Christ. I also met my wife, Erika, at Eastern, and my daughter Ashlynne is currently finishing her final year at Eastern as well.

At Eastern, I learned that the kingdom of God is not just a distant vision, but a very present reality, shaping my worldview and mission. I now see my role joining God in His great rescue and renewing project here on earth.”

Rajendra Pillai, MBA ’98 Kolkata, India

Rajendra with Erika (Velthuis) Pillai ’98

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Celebrating the Life and Legacy of

Dr. Tony Campolo THIS PAST NOVEMBER, we both mourned and celebrated the

Though his impact spans far and wide, those who were fortunate

eternal homecoming of Rev. Dr. Tony Campolo ’56, BD ’60, ThM

enough to get to know Tony on a personal level will remember him

’61, HD ’06, one of Eastern University's most influential alumni and

for his colorful storytelling, infectious energy, and gift for blending

a beloved member of our community.

wit with profound wisdom. As we grieve his absence, we remember

A gifted educator, scholar, and passionate advocate for social change, Tony’s career spanned over six decades, leaving a

the words of 2 Corinthians 5:8: “We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord.”

profound legacy behind him. He continually inspired students,

Tony’s steadfast faith and love, demonstrated in every corner of

faculty, and staff alike as he passionately exemplified the

his life, now find their fulfillment in the joyous presence of the God

University’s mission of Faith, Reason, and Justice. A beloved

he so faithfully served. May we continue to live out the values he

member of the Eastern and Palmer alumni community, Tony was in

inspired in us, striving to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly

the first graduating class of Eastern Baptist College and continued

with our God (Micah 6:8).

on to earn several other degrees from both Eastern Baptist College and Eastern Baptist (now Palmer) Theological Seminary.

Tony’s impact reached far beyond academia. His legacy is not only recognized within our community, but throughout the world. His work as a public speaker, author, and champion of the “Red Letter Christianity" movement challenged us all to live out the radical love of Christ through acts of justice, mercy, and compassion that engages with the world’s needs. He also founded Eastern's Campolo Center for Ministry, which continues to equip Eastern University and Palmer Seminary students to grow in faith and make an impact in the world by providing scholarships, mentoring, and discipleship.

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SAVE the DATES!

EUNI TE D CE NT E N NIAL H OMEC OMING 2025 W E D N E S D AY, O C T O B E R 8 T H - S AT U R D AY, O C T O B E R 1 1 T H T O L E A R N M O R E , V I S I T: EASTERN.EDU/HOMECOMING 47

100 Years of Memories — Come Home to Celebrate!

A L U M N I AWA R D S Do you know an Eastern alum who is making a difference in their community and deserves some recognition? We're looking for nominations for Alumnus/a of the Year, Distinguished Young Alumnus/a of the Year, and a staff or faculty member for our Lamplight Society Inductee! Learn more about the awards, read about current award winners, and make a nomination at eastern.edu/alumniawards.

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A Time to Rise: Celebrating 100 Years As Eastern University marks its Centennial Year, we reflect on a century of inspiring lives and shaping futures. From our picturesque campus nestled in nature to halls filled with wisdom and camaraderie, Eastern University has been a beacon of light and leadership for generations.

This milestone year invites us to honor our past while looking boldly to the future. Your support plays a vital role in empowering our students, advancing academic excellence, and fostering a community rooted in Faith, Reason, and Justice.

Together, let’s make this Centennial a time to rise higher than ever, ensuring that Eastern University remains a place where potential knows no bounds.

Join us in shaping the next 100 years. Your generosity is our strength.

Y O U R G I F T M AT T E R S

VISIT EASTERN.EDU/GIVE TO MAKE YOUR CENTENNIAL GIFT

SHAPING THE NEXT

100 YEARS

An Invitation to Leave Your Centennial Legacy For 100 years, Eastern University has been a place where students live out the values of Faith, Reason, and Justice, bringing these principles to a world that needs them more than ever. We invite you to help write the next chapter of Eastern’s story as we celebrate this centennial milestone.

A Gift for Tomorrow’s Leaders By making a planned gift to Eastern, you help shape the future of the University and its students.

Many alumni and friends have chosen to leave their mark through bequests, gifts from IRAs or QCDs, stocks, or mutual funds. These gifts ensure that future generations will be equipped to lead with excellence, integrity, and authenticity, just as Eastern has done for the past century.

Become Part of the Centennial Legacy Your planned gift is more than a financial contribution; it’s an investment in the next generation of leaders who will carry forward Eastern’s Christ-centered mission. By including Eastern in your plans, you’ll join the Claghorn Heritage Society, a community of alumni and friends dedicated to preserving the values that have shaped us for 100 years.

Learn More Contact the Office of Advancement to explore how your gift can leave a lasting mark on Eastern’s next century. Together, we will continue to be a beacon of light rooted in our values and building an exciting future.

MAKE A GIFT

eastern.edu/give | advancement@eastern.edu | 610-341-5932 49

1300 Eagle Road, St. Davids, PA 19087-3696

Then, Now, FOREVER! SAVE the DATES!

UP C O MING SPECI AL CE NTE NNI AL E VE NTS M AY 2 0 2 5

MARCH 2025

SWING INTO THE CENTENNIAL

CAMPOLO LEGACY CELEBRATION

KICK-OFF WORSHIP SERVICE & FOUNDERS DAY CHAPEL

CENTENNIAL EASTERN CUP

(PHILLIES SPRING TRAINING)

JUNE 2025

SWING INTO THE CENTENNIAL

(PHILLIES HOME GAME)

CENTENNIAL GALA (INVITE ONLY) Visit the Centennial Website for more information as events are confirmed.

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