INDIANA WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY
FALL/WINTER 2023
The Momentum Plan FEATURING THE FUTURE
Wesley Seminary IN GOOD HANDS
Hannah Hubley
A SENSE OF BELONGING
Levia Heffner FROM TRAGEDY TO TRIUMPH
INDIANA WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY TRIANGLE STAFF Tod Dalberg Chief Marketing Officer & Managing Editor
Letter From the President DR. JON KULAGA • Where individualistic tendencies are changed into a care for individuals created in the image of God
DESIGN Rachael Gouvan Senior Graphic Designer; Marketing
• Where a consumer focus on things and self, are transformed into covenantal relationships with the Creator of all things, and a life of service to others
Jason Steiner ’97 Creative Director; Marketing EDITORIAL Lana Shoaf Copywriter & Communications Manager; Marketing PHOTOGRAPHY Scott Kulaga Photographer; Marketing PRODUCTION Jennifer DeBoy ’16 Assistant Director of Brand and Marketing Operations; Marketing CONTRIBUTORS Jerry A. Pattengale, Ph.D. University Professor
FOLLOW OUR JOURNEY @indwes @iwuglobal @wesleyseminaryatiwu Indiana Wesleyan University IWU National & Global Wesley Seminary Indiana Wesleyan University indwes iwuglobal Wesley Seminary
The Triangle is published two times a year by Indiana Wesleyan University. Second-class postage paid at Marion, IN., and additional cities. Send address changes to Indiana Wesleyan University, 4201 S. Washington Street, Marion, IN. 46953-4974.
• Where instead of preparing for a life of using people and loving things, you leave with a transformed heart and mind that is prepared to use things to better love people We live in a consumer driven society in which the acquisition of things (and the temporal status the ownership of those things brings) has become not merely a means to the end of a “better life,” but the very definition of the better life. From our communication devices that start with “i” (iPad, iPhone) to our cologne (MYSLF), the focus of our society is individualistic, even egocentric, intentionally drawing our attention to what we don’t have, rather than fostering gratitude for what we do have. Through this constant creation of dissatisfaction, it has been said that America has developed a highly sophisticated mechanism for the production and distribution of unhappiness. Thankfully, and gratefully, there is an alternative. Life can be more than the sum total of our contracts — that can be easily broken. It can be covenantal. And a college education can be more than a mere transaction that is seen as means to a “better life” defined as ever increasing purchasing power. A college education can be transformationa — one in which the means to a better life are enhanced, but also one in which the very definition of what constitutes a ‘“better life” is redefined in the life and mind of the student.
In this issue of the Triangle, you will read about lives that have risen from a life that questions value, to a life that discovered it. Athletes that understand that it is more important to have a testimony, than a trophy (although, trophies are nice too). And where their IWU education was not merely a means toward an end, but a journey toward meaning. And stories where walking in physical darkness does nothing to diminish the light of Christ. I trust that as you read this issue, you will sense that Indiana Wesleyan University is more than just a great university. It is a place where lives are changed — for the purpose of changing the world!
DR. JON KULAGA President
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IN THIS ISSUE
INDIANA WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY Volume 104 | Issue No. 1 | Fall|Winter 2023
FEATURE STORIES 18
A SENSE OF BELONGING
An IWU blind student discovers more than community. She finds her voice, defies limits, and inspires others.
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JOURDAIN BROWN & MARTA ZAMBETTI
Two IWU student athletes discover discipleship and leadership in sports, shaping their teams for excellence and their own lives for world-changing endeavors and personal growth.
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MOMENTUM
President Kulaga maps out long-term plan for IWU future success and sustainable growth through people, pathways, and partnerships.
FROM TRAGEDY TO TRIUMPH ONE STUDENT'S STORY OF REDEMPTION Pain and loss provide a path of purpose through faith and education for this IWU student. Her tragedyturned-triumph brings hope to underserved youth.
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EDUCATION INSPIRES INFLUENTIAL LEADER
IWU alumnus and Colorado Springs’ first black immigrant mayor breaks barriers and inspires change in local leadership.
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IN GOOD HANDS
Wesley Seminary’s new leader fosters personal and institutional growth, strengthens Wesleyan church connections, and empowers faculty and students to impact the world for Jesus Christ.
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NEWS BRIEFS IWU PROFESSOR’S SEVENYEAR PROJECT REACHES INTERNATIONAL AUDIENCES | The New Book of Christian Martyrs is a major update of one of the most popular books in the English language, Foxe’s Book of Martyrs (1563). IWU professor Dr. Jerry Pattengale co-authored the work with noted humanitarian Johnnie Moore, which caught the eyes of TBN’s Kristin Egan, and popular media figure Erick Stakelbeck. TBN filmed a one-hour special about the book in the historic Calvary-St. George’s Parish in NYC which will air many times on TBN, beginning in December 2023. Pattengale and Moore launched the book this spring in IWU’s Globe Theater, hosted by Voice of the Martyr’s Tim Nettleton. Pattengale remarked, “My hope is that decades from now people still read this book and pass copies along to their family and networks.” Pattengale has given all book royalties to IWU scholarships. He is very appreciative of support from IWU, Lumen Research Institute colleagues, and those at the Museum of the Bible. IWU OFFERS COURSES IN CORRECTIONAL FACILITY | IWU began offering courses at the Plainfield Correctional Facility near Indianapolis in July of this year. Chancellor of IWU National and Global, Eileen Hulme stated,
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“The opportunity to serve individuals in need of a second chance at higher education is in keeping with IWU’s Christian mission and values. Our goal is to provide an engaging learning experience that will give students renewed hope and vision for their future.” The program, aimed at success after release, educates inmates about valuable aspects of business, but also skills to succeed in finding, keeping, and excelling in a business-related career. Dedra Daehn, Director of Accreditation at IWU adds, “The first goal in designing this certificate was to provide opportunities for students to learn about Jesus Christ. The second goal was to offer a set of solid business courses that would equip students with skills needed for entry-level positions while also establishing an educational pathway for future degrees.”
IWU GRADUATES FIRST AVIATION STUDENT | The sky is not the limit for new graduate, Shelby Fraizer — it’s her goal. Beginning her education in Louisiana while taking flying lessons to earn her private license proved difficult until she discovered IWU’s aviation degree. All previous credits transferred, so Shelby completed the new IWU program in one year. Shelby attended the April ’23 graduation ceremony and said, “After visiting the beautiful campus, I wished I would have started from the beginning at IWU!” She enjoyed her accommodating classes, finding her professors very qualified and said, “I didn’t feel like a number.”
IWU is just as excited to offer the Aviation Management program. Dr. Joe Childs, Director of Aviation Program, said, “We are excited Shelby is our first graduate from the program. She represents the future of professional aviation…one of the most career-empowering degree programs we offer at IWU.” Thanks, in part, to IWU, Shelby has a pathway to becoming a cargo pilot. THE FUTURE OF THE CHURCH-RELATED UNIVERSITY CONSULTATION ESTABLISHED | The Lilly Fellows Program, based at Valparaiso University in Valparaiso, IN, in partnership with Indiana Wesleyan University’s Lumen Research Institute, announced the establishment of the “Future of the Church-Related University” consultation in September, with its first meeting in late October. The “Future of the ChurchRelated University” consultation will engage the financial, legal, philosophical, political, social, and technical challenges facing Church-related higher education. A consultation initiative called “Funding the Future,” led by IWU President Dr. Jon Kulaga and Samford President Beck A. Taylor begins the consulting series. Subsequent initiatives may focus on mission, administrators, curriculum, faculty, students, and trustees. According to Lilly Fellows Program Director Joe Creech, “Everyone acknowledges that the funding model for higher education— church-related higher education included—is broken, so I’m excited about the opportunity to address this issue headon.” With Joe Creech serving as chair, a thirteen-member advisory board will provide oversight for this consultation. ASCEND INDIANA PARTNERSHIP BENEFITS STUDENT OUTCOMES | IWU formed a partnership with Ascend Indiana to connect more students to promising quality career opportunities in
Indiana. Through the Ascend Network, the initiative’s online job-matching platform, IWU on-campus and online students can connect with Indiana jobs and internships which match their skill sets and interests and will receive increased one-on-one career guidance and job search support. In addition, this partnership provides Indiana’s leading employers with a unique platform for hiring IWU students graduating from the Marion campus or from National and Global.
Dr. Linda Manganello, Division of Modern Language, Literature, and Communication Chair, hosted the discussion which brought approximately 100 attendees. The event bridged the writing world and sports world for a well-rounded conversation. Dr. Manganello reflected on the event, “Dr. Scott Burson's book launch was a wonderful event highlighting a truly inspirational story. Solomon Wilcots impacted our students with his wisdom and experience. It was a great night of storytelling and conversation.”
Legacy.” The discussion planned for IWU students also aired on C-SPAN as part of their American History TV programming. Panelists included a Pulitzer Prize-winning author, an undersecretary for the US Department of Energy, and a national correspondent for The Washington Post.
DR. WARREN ROGERS MAKING AN IMPACT IN THE WORLD OF NUCLEAR PHYSICS | Dr. Warren Rogers lives to find clues of God’s imprint in creation. A native of California, Rogers became IWU’s Blanchard Chair in Physics in 2016. With support he secured from the National Science Foundation, Rogers leads research on campus with IWU students constructing large neutron detectors. His research also takes him and his students to laboratories from Michigan State University to New Mexico’s Los Alamos National Laboratory. Rogers helps students land summer internships in laboratories at MIT, Duke University, and the Large Hadron Collider (CERN) outside of Geneva, Switzerland.
His work with the Tuskegee Airmen as the Director of Training for the 99th Pursuit Squadron broke racial barriers. His students in the 99th Squadron, the first black aviation military squadron, ranked first three times among 22 other flight schools in the Southeast Army Air Corps Training Command. His significant and enduring contributions to the history of aviation earned him a place in the Class of 2023 Indiana Aviation Hall of Fame.
Indiana Wesleyan University’s Associate Dean of Life Calling and Career, Levi Huffman, said, “Ascend will help IWU students easily connect to the jobs and internships they want. This relationship compliments the expert services our Life Calling & Career office provides the IWU community. We are excited to see how Ascend will help our students live out their vocational calling.” The Network adds a robust resource to the school’s efforts and provides a lens into the variety of opportunities here in the Hoosier state. BOOK LAUNCH EVENT BRINGS SOLOMON WILCOX TO CAMPUS | IWU hosted a book launch for theology and philosophy professor Dr. Scott Burson’s From Bulldog to Bengal: The Joe Burrow Story Through the Eyes of His Hometown. Solomon Wilcox, a former member of the Cincinnati Bengals and commentator for Sirius XM-NFL, served as moderator in the September 19th discussion in IWU’s Globe Theater. University Professor and Co-Director of the Lumen Research Institute Jerry Pattengale said, “As he discussed one of the nation’s most famous athletes, his familiarity with Joe Burrow’s extended family was charmingly mesmerizing.”
Rogers capitalizes on culturally relevant questions like those raised by last summer’s Oppenheimer film. In October, Rogers moderated a panel discussion titled “J. Robert Oppenheimer: An Evolving
JACKSON INDUCTED INTO INDIANA AVIATION HALL OF FAME | Lewis A. Jackson, Ph.D., a beloved IWU alumnus and donor, was inducted into the Indiana Aviation Hall of Fame on October 7th, 2023. His love for IWU prompted a major donation to the library on campus named in his honor. After graduating from Marion College in 1939 with an education degree, Jackson combined his love for flying, his passion for teaching, and his determination to eliminate discrimination in the skies into a lifelong career.
DISCOVER MORE INDWES.EDU/NEWS
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PARTNERS FOR
INTERNATIONAL STUDENT SUCCESS ndiana Wesleyan University is growing enrollment in creative ways through pathways to educate international students. IWU has established partnerships, both domestically and abroad, to support international students desiring to immigrate and enroll at the university. These partners connect students with two essential services. First, they assist with enrollment in an accredited higher education institution which meets the requirements of the US F-1, or student, visa program. Then the partners find US employment for these international students.
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In partnership with these external agencies, Indiana Wesleyan enrolls international students in degree programs. These students migrate to the US mainly from the University of Punjab or Guru Nanak Institute of Technology in India, where they are studying in STEMbased (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) fields. These two universities have a strong tradition of sending students to the US for continuing education. As such, IWU and its partners provide the critical link from India to the US. Student Prakash Tirmale says, “Thanks to the top-notch professors, staff, and encouraging community at Indiana Wesleyan University, my experience here has been positively transforming, nurturing not only my academic advancement but also my faith.” Students like Prakash are paid a livable wage from a US company or firm which provides income for living and educational expenses. In turn, IWU enrolls the student in a degree program and certifies that they meet the student visa requirements from the US government. In recent years, IWU has added master’s and doctoral programs, 6 Triangle Fall|Winter 2023
specifically in STEM fields, to support the needs and goals of international students. In sharing their experiences, students offered appreciation for the exposure an IWU education affords. Not only is IWU providing a means for studying in the US, but the university is challenging students in the classroom. Rizwan Mohamadabdule shared, “Studying within Indiana Wesleyan makes me feel very confident and the course material is very easy to understand. The course materials relate to the current trending market very well and give a great approach for today’s workplaces.” The IWU international student initiative continues to grow and impact lives. IWU prays the professional experiences and education will produce students who are world changers in the US and abroad. This strategic initiative is a tremendous opportunity to extend the university’s Christ-centered mission and culture. In doing so, the international student growth provides a wonderful space for life-change and transformational education.
“THANKS TO THE TOP-NOTCH PROFESSORS, STAFF, AND ENCOURAGING COMMUNITY AT INDIANA WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY, MY EXPERIENCE HERE HAS BEEN POSITIVELY TRANSFORMING, NURTURING NOT ONLY MY ACADEMIC ADVANCEMENT BUT ALSO MY FAITH.” PRAKASH TIRMALE International Student
EMPOWERING TEXAS EDUCATORS The Transformative Benefits of IWU’s Partnership nationwide teacher shortage, fueled by regulatory and cultural changes, has crippled the K-12 educational system in the past decade. States such as Texas and Florida, with swelling populations have experienced the greatest strain, leaving many classrooms unfilled. IWU National & Global (N&G) established a creative partnership with Teachworthy, a Texasbased firm, to offer an alternative teacher education and licensure pathway.
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The Texas program encourages school districts within the state to educate paraprofessionals and staff, providing new careers and economic mobility for existing employees. The initiative began in the Forney Independent School District, north of Dallas, and has grown to include 37 other school districts across the state. Andy Miller, Vice President for Strategic Enrollment and Partnerships in IWU N&G, said, “N&G's strategic partnership with Teachworthy and the Texas school districts provides an innovative pathway to educate and train future teachers for Texas. This effort provides career mobility for individuals, workforce development solutions for districts, and missional opportunities for the university.” Enrollment Counselor and Adjunct Professor Jonathan Markey, considers it a privilege to work with students in the
Teachworthy partnership. He taught over 200 students from the program over the past year and shared, “The students have such a clear growth mindset and passion for their careers…The awesome part of the program is knowing these teachers are not just learning for themselves, but what they learn here will then be shared with children across the state of Texas. In a way, this program is not only helping this generation but also the next.” Students also appreciate the impact of the IWU education on their careers. The flexibility of learning while working full time is a draw for the program. One student said, “I benefit from being able to work ahead as my time allows or turn in multiple assignments in one day which is very helpful for my busy schedule.” Another student emphasized the spiritual formation offered at IWU and shared, “My professor was very supportive and there for me in my time of need spiritually and emotionally. He gave me the support I really needed.” The partnership is helping to solve a complex problem in the state of Texas. Teachworthy and IWU collaborate with the school districts to create a customized program. For school districts, an important benefit of the program is teacher retention and the development of a culture of excellence in the classroom. For IWU, the program offers significant opportunity to fulfill its educational mission by preparing the next generation of teachers. The Texas initiative offers a critical solution for the State of Texas and serves current and future school-aged children.
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N&G's strategic partnership with Teachworthy and the Texas school districts provides an innovative pathway to educate and train future teachers for Texas. This effort provides career mobility for individuals, workforce development solutions for districts, and missional opportunities for the university. ANDY MILLER Vice President, Strategic Enrollment & Partnerships
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Walking the Graduation Stage Together he spring graduation ceremony proved extremely monumental for a mother/daughter pair who traveled from Texas to walk across the Chapel Auditorium Stage together. Both began their college pathway in 2010 when Adrianna Fox graduated from high school. Adrianna enrolled as a traditional student and her mother, Mary, decided it was time for her to reach for more too. They both encountered obstacles along the pathway to a degree, but when they found themselves working as paraprofessionals at a school district in Texas who partners with Indiana Wesleyan University, they renewed their commitment and graduated with bachelor’s degrees from IWU in education.
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The Copperas Cove Independent School District (CCISD) believes in educating educators. Their Rising Instructors Soaring in Education (R.I.S.E.) Academy provides innovative pathways to teacher certification and professional development. CCISD offers classes for their high school students, but also to the paraprofessionals working as hourly employees in their district and provides professional development for experienced teachers too. Indiana Wesleyan University’s partnership with Teachworthy, a Texas Teacher Certification program, to provide college credit by offering online undergrad classes to qualified candidates. CCISD joined the initiative, offering their employees scholarships to enroll in IWU classes and become teachers in their district. Marie and Adrianna Fox leaned into the opportunity to gain college credit with the help of scholarships from CCISD. Marie enjoyed learning from IWU National and Global and said, “I am extremely happy that CCISD picked IWU for the CCISD RISE program. I have had the best classes and I learned so much from each class I took at IWU.”
ADRIANNA AND MARIE FOX Mother/daughter IWU graduates
image courtesy of Copperas Cove ISD
Mary and Adrianna attended graduation on the Marion campus, a celebration of epic proportions as they fell in line together, alphabetically to walk across the stage. Mary said, “To be graduating with Adrianna, who I started it all with,
“The professors are phenomenal. They help in any way they can. ...They don’t miss a beat in being flexible and understanding. I could go on forever about the great professors at IWU.”
Adrianna agrees, “All in all, I am so grateful for the collaboration between CCISD and IWU. This has truly changed my life in so many ways for the better.” The pair are now certified teachers in the state of Texas, enjoying higher pay and the satisfaction of a fulfilling career. IWU continues to connect teacher candidates with college degrees through Teachworthy and school districts like CCISD. In all, IWU has enrolled teachers from 37 Texas school districts and plans for the number to continue to grow. The impact also grows, but the power lies in training each teacher to become a world changer, one story at a time. m
Mary’s daughter, Adrianna felt the same way, “The courses and people at IWU are phenomenal and have been such a blessing in numerous ways. The professors are amazing, and as a first-year intern and doing full-time college work, things could be overwhelming. But the professors work with you to get things accomplished. The courses at IWU have helped me become extremely knowledgeable and truly are an asset to my education.”
makes it so special.” When they arrived on campus, they were impressed in every way. Mary went on to say, “Did I mention how big and beautiful the campus was when we attended graduation? The staff was friendly and helpful, and we had the best experience at graduation. I am so grateful for the opportunities I have been given, and R.I.S.E. has changed my life forever. Thank you for the opportunity to attend IWU.”
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“The professors are amazing, and as a first-year intern and doing full-time college work, things could be overwhelming. But the professors work with you to get things accomplished. The courses at IWU have helped me become extremely knowledgeable and truly are an asset to my education.” ADRIANNA FOX ’23
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She felt IWU’s approach to online education was very personal. “The professors are phenomenal. They help in any way they can. I have some professors that gave me their personal cell phone number, answered the phone, and walked me through everything I was struggling with at the moment. They are very helpful knowing we are interns, doing high-level coursework, and realizing it is a lot of work. They don’t miss a beat in being flexible and understanding. I could go on forever about the great professors at IWU.”
Indiana Wesleyan University’s partnership with Teachworthy, a Texas Teacher Certification program, provides college credit by offering online undergrad classes to qualified candidates.
MARIE FOX ’23
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WILDCAT WIN Indiana Wesleyan University Football earned a Homecoming shutout over Madonna, 26-0 at the Wildcat Football Stadium.
ndiana Wesleyan alumni made their way “home” to Marion’s campus to participate in homecoming festivities. Students enjoyed a Roller Derby and Movie on the Lawn Thursday evening. Then, on Friday, alumni returned to participate in the Alumni Chorale Concert while families and others enjoyed food trucks on campus and a Wonder Space for kids. Saturday morning began with
a 5K Color Run with students, faculty, family, friends, and alumni participating in the fun! A Tailgate Brunch and football game were the highlights. Hundreds of fans cheered on the Wildcat football team in an atmosphere of energy and triumph. To cap it all off, alumni, faculty, students, and families enjoyed a worship concert featuring Bryan and Katie Torwalt of Jesus Culture. The concert ushered in a spirit of worship and an excellent sendoff to ignite alumni and students as they return as world changers to impact their communities.
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Save the Date for Homecoming 2024 October 18-19.
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2023 DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI AWARD WINNERS Alumni World Changer Dr. Jim 'Umfundisi' Lo National & Global Alumni Award Mr. Elias G. Dumas III Young Alumni Award Mr. Kyle Weener Marion Campus Alumni Award Mrs. Brittany Tinkler Wesley Seminary Alumni Award Tom & Sarah Cochran
COMING 2023 Indiana Wesleyan University 11
Nurturing Spiritual Growth Online “We have access to students on a weekly basis and can walk through some heavy times with them. If they do not know the Lord, we have an opportunity to share Biblical counsel with them, praying for them, encouraging them, and pointing them to truth.” BOB BURCHELL Director of Chaplain Ministries and SpiritCare
eading a ministry focused on a student population consisting of 50% professing Christians provides quite the opportunity to share the love of Christ to those unfamiliar with him. IWU National and Global’s spiritual formation ministry called SpiritCare attempts to reach students for Christ through online and remote education. Instead of chapel participation or joining a small group like traditional campus students, online students experience connection and spiritual growth from IWU through faculty and staff virtually. Digital-based ministry presents complex challenges, but Bob Burchell, Director of Chaplain Ministries and SpiritCare, uses creativity and innovation to reach students, calling it a “ministry like no other.”
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Burchell explains the digital approach IWU implements for spiritual formation utilizing three lines of communication.
FIRST Spiritual formation is built into the curriculum and is foundational to the student experience.
SECOND Faculty nurture students on a spiritual level, so hiring educators passionate about sharing a Christian worldview aligned with the Wesleyan Church through class is very important.
THIRD Burchell’s team of chaplains uses a proactive approach to build relationships with every student in hopes of opening a one-onone spiritual formation pathway. The proactive steps in spiritual formation for Burchell’s team are initiated through chaplains. John Lee serves full time as an online chaplain and there are five part-time chaplains who do pro-active calls with students. The chaplains connect with new students through a phone call three weeks after classes begin. The chaplains open the line of communication for prayer and spiritual support. Students can also submit prayer requests through their class portal. Burchell is available for students, but full-time online chaplain John Lee cares for the bulk of requests and connecting efforts. John Lee is the first person to respond to prayer requests. “Over half of the students enrolled at IWU National & Global do not have a relationship with God. Many do not have functional support anywhere, even within their own families. When crisis hits, we have this lifeline for them,” says Burchell.
For Burchell and his staff, they believe National and Global spiritual formation is a ministry like no other. Burchell says, “We have access to students on a weekly basis and can walk through some heavy times with them. If they do not know the Lord, we have an opportunity to share Biblical counsel with them, praying for them, encouraging them, and pointing them to truth.” Every spiritual formation success story takes time and persistence and building trust through an online format isn’t easy. However, Burchell and his team are learning how to better connect. John Lee became certified in “Motivational Interviewing” to help communicate with students effectively, and it’s working. One student attributed the care of the faculty and chaplains as IWU’s biggest value saying, “They prayed for my success.” Students enrolled in classes who are struggling in life may reach out to a chaplain when they wouldn’t think of contacting a therapist or pastor. They are introduced to chaplains through a webinar during the onboarding process. Online students sometimes feel ready to take the
risk to reach out for support because they can click out of a conversation, so they justify the start of one. Chaplains notice heavier seasons of need like the holidays. Sometimes the student gives permission to faculty to reach out to Burchell’s team, so the faculty are on the front lines, looking for ways to encourage students through the love of Christ. Building trust and witnessing spiritual formation takes time and Burchell says, “It’s not a quick change and it takes a lot of patience…it takes a lot of prayer, persistence, and hope.” SpiritCare’s unique ministry makes a difference in the lives of online students around the globe taking classes through IWU. One online student finished her degree and said, “Thank you to all the instructors and staff who have helped mold me into who I am now. I’m proud to be an IWU Wildcat.” Bob Burchell, John Lee, and the staff of chaplains at IWU National and Global encourage online students to seek Jesus for greater impact and ultimately for the glory of God, affirming and encouraging the Christian students and caring well for the non-Christian students for the purpose of sharing Christ’s love through an IWU education.
“Thank you to all the instructors and staff who have helped mold me into who I am now. I’m proud to be an IWU Wildcat.” ONLINE STUDENT IWU National and Global
IWU National and Global’s spiritual formation ministry called SpiritCare attempts to reach students for Christ through online and remote education. Instead of chapel participation or joining a small group like traditional campus students, online students experience connection and spiritual growth from IWU through faculty and staff virtually.
JOHN LEE Online Chaplain
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tragedy to triumph
from
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One Student’s Story of Redemption evia Heffner lived most of her life with one goal — to survive. All of that changed in October of 2020, when she enrolled at IWU National & Global. Her decision to complete a college degree was born out of a world of struggle, pain, and determination to honor her family and her fresh faith. Levia says, “I knew I had to break the cycle and start doing better.”
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Levia’s story began in Gary, IN, where she grew up splitting time between her home, foster homes, and a children’s home. Her mother could not care for her six children, so three of the kids were sent to live with grandparents and three were sent into the foster system. Levia was one of the latter. She remembers being placed in her first foster home with her sister, Lena, and sadly, they were both severely neglected. At one point, they were locked in a basement for four days. They thought they might die of starvation and made a pact in that basement. Levia says, “We agreed if one of us died, the other would kill themselves so we could always be together.” Thankfully, Lena and Levia did survive the horrific conditions of that basement and their foster home experience. They were later place in a children’s home. While at the children’s home, Levia grew in many ways. At nine years old, Levia experienced fine arts for the first time. During a sponsored trip to see a Broadway show, The Wiz, an African American adaptation of The Wizard of Oz, actress Stephanie Mills captivated and inspired Levia to take dance classes. Because she lived at the children’s home, she was able to join a dance class and engage in fine arts. Her sporadic experiences in fine arts broadened and brightened her world.
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“I see so much potential in Levia because she is determined and knows her God-given calling on her life. She possesses resilience and grit to overcome whatever challenges she faces, and she does it with such a positive, determined attitude that she provides encouragement and inspiration to others.” JESSIE PABLO Director of Field Experiences, IWU National & Global
During her junior year of high school, Levia’s mother found enough stability to bring her girls home to Indianapolis. Levia moved home and graduated from Howe High School in Indianapolis in ’95. After graduation, she used her acquired scrappy survival skills and began on a similar path to her mother, raising her kids using whatever means she needed to survive. She remembers going to great lengths on the streets, stealing even, to feed her children. She always provided basic needs, never having to surrender her own children. But no matter how hard she tried, she couldn’t seem to break the cycle of poverty. While raising her own children, Levia and her sister continued a close relationship. Along the way, Lena found Jesus Christ and consistently encouraged Levia to cling to faith. Levia couldn’t assume the faith of
her sister. Although she admired it, she wasn’t interested in trading her lifestyle for that of a believer. Levia remembers her sister warning her, “Levia, you have one foot in the world and one foot with Jesus, you’ve got to plant both feet in Christ!” Despite their difference in faith and lifestyle, Levia stayed close with Lena, pulling on her encouragement to get her through the ups and downs of life. In March of 2020, however, Levia’s life crumbled. Her mother grew ill and died and just 45 days later her beloved sister, Lena, suddenly passed away from Covid. Levia was devastated and remembered their childhood pact. Through a deep love for her sister and from a world of pain, she honored the childhood pact. Levia attempted suicide twice before encountering a supernatural interaction with her sister. During an extremely low moment of suicide contemplation, she heard her sister say, “You know if you do this, we won’t be together.” Levia decided then to give her life over to Christ completely. To further change her path, she enrolled at Indiana Wesleyan University. As a student in the associate of human services program, she encountered love and support from her professors. She also remembers feeling cared for by the chaplains. She found people who believed in her and discovered the gift her tragic story could be to the world. She feels the professors and faculty at IWU are her new “family” encouraging her like her mother and sister would have done. She completed classes and an associate degree with a passion to help underserved young adults. Director of Field Experiences at IWU National & Global, Jessie Pablo, admires Levia’s ability to rise above her circumstances and said, “I see so much potential in Levia because she is determined and knows her God-given calling on her life. She possesses resilience and grit to overcome whatever challenges
she faces, and she does it with such a positive, determined attitude that she provides encouragement and inspiration to others.” During her last course of her associate degree, her professor, Jack Brady, encouraged her to continue in her education to get her bachelor’s degree in social work. After she graduated in April ’23, she signed up for her next set of courses and is following Brady’s advice and on her way to earning a bachelor’s degree. Ultimately, she hopes to get her master’s in social work to realize her dream — open a ministry called “Charm Service Culture.” Through Charm Service Culture, she wants to teach young adolescent girls in underserved neighborhoods about etiquette and fine arts. Levia says, “Underserved populations have no exposure to fine arts like music, orchestra, ballet, or theater.” She wants to show girls practical tips to break the cycle of poverty and keep them off the streets. In the meantime, she is inspiring the people she loves most, her children and Lena’s only son. Her success at IWU contrasted with her struggle of raising young children is inspiring them to reach for more. Her daughter enrolled in a nursing program, following in her mother’s footsteps to get a college degree and further break the cycle of poverty. She also cares for and works hard to make Lena’s son proud, knowing the impact his own mother made in her success. As Levia steps closer to her end goal, one day at a time, she continues to remember how blessed she has been by the people at IWU. She works diligently through her coursework, inspired by her sister and the difficult times of life which grew her determination. She looks with great hope to the future and knows, “God will get us through. God is real!”
Levia cherishes a photo of her late sister, Lena.
from tragedy to triumph Indiana Wesleyan University 17
A Sense of
BELONGING annah Hubley’s faith radiates on campus pathways as she meanders to class guided by her trusted white cane. Hannah, a blind student, graduated in April from IWU-Marion with a bachelor’s degree in writing and a minor in intercultural studies. Growing up with a visual impairment taught Hannah many lessons, but her years at Indiana Wesleyan launched her into a remarkable growth spurt socially, emotionally, academically, and spiritually, and IWU became a place where she felt a sense of belonging.
VISION AND COMMUNITY
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Her first year at IWU included a lot of physical orientation with the campus along with all the typical freshman-year challenges. During Hannah’s sophomore year, she hit her stride. She said, “I was more confident and ready to learn.” She found “amazing community” with her peers in the Honors College. Hannah led a discussion at the “Day of Courageous Conversations” about disability awareness during her senior year. The idea to present this topic began a year before with a specific nudge from God. When she looked at the previous year’s schedule, she felt like something
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was missing. She remembers, “God was so good. His hand was all over that.” She advises prospective students with disabilities to strongly consider IWU. She encourages students with disabilities to utilize the Center for Student Success and attributes much of her own success to their guidance and support. A oneon-one meeting on a college visit day to clearly communicate needs is essential to student success. She advises, “Come with questions about accommodations and accessibility! Also, find your community when you are here. People make all the difference.” Hannah prays she shared God’s love to the people on campus and, in turn, has experienced feeling loved and accepted at IWU. She found a voice of advocacy, learned to lead with purpose, and gained lessons in class and on campus to cherish for a lifetime. Hannah Hubley’s inspiring story highlights the possibilities of both her own life and the possibilities Indiana Wesleyan University offers to see all students succeed. With God’s continued guidance, a team cheering her on, and Hannah’s own abilities, fortitude, and faith, her future of success is ready to be written. IWU’s prayer for Hannah is a continuation of community and a future full of a sense of belonging.
Growing up with a visual impairment taught Hannah many lessons, but her years at Indiana Wesleyan launched her into a remarkable growth spurt socially, emotionally, academically, and spiritually and IWU became a place where she felt a sense of belonging.
From Dark
TO BRIGHT “I
f you are going to do something, do it to the best of your ability,” was Lise Pace’s life motto as a young adult working a successful banking job. She certainly lived up to this as a student at IWU National & Global, but the time between her position at the bank and her enrollment as an IWU student brought dark, dark days.
As a young mother working at the bank, Lise began to have vision problems and an appointment to the eye doctor changed her life forever. She remembers the tension in the room as the doctor told her she had retinae dispygmentotia and informed her, “You will go blind, and I suggest you start to prepare for it.” When Lise walked into her appointment that day, she remembers the bright sunshine, but when she walked to her car after, it seemed dark. Over the next decade, Lise lost her vision. She lost her job, grew distant from her family and friends, and floundered somewhat hopelessly for a while. Eventually, Lise went looking for a challenge. A college degree seemed like the right path, and IWU the pathway. She said, “It’s what I needed at that time.”
For the next ten years, she was an IWU student, building her confidence, even voted by her peers to be the class liaison where she flourished. Lise graduated from IWU National & Global with an associate degree in business administration and management in 2006, then with her bachelor’s degree in business administration and management in 2008 and her MBA in 2014. Her education grew servant leadership skills which led her to seek engagement through volunteering at Bosma Enterprises, a nonprofit organization in Indianapolis to help the visually impaired. Now Lise serves as Bosma’s Executive Vice President and champions accessibility and inclusion for individuals with vision loss. She has learned, “being blind is not who you are, it’s just something that you have… Blind people can 100% be successful.” The encouragement and opportunity in Lise’s story came through faculty at Indiana Wesleyan. She now spends her days providing services to the visually impaired and communicates the message she so desperately needed to hear, “You are not alone.” She watches them find pathways to success, working alongside sighted people and living fulfilling lives with their families.
Create your own pathway to success! IWU provides accessible education for every chapter of life. DiscoverTheWay.com
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VISION AND COMMUNITY
Lise graduated from IWU National & Global with an associate degree in business administration and management in 2006, then with her bachelor’s degree in business administration and management in 2008 and her MBA in 2014.
FROM THE COURT TO CANVAS
Making a Mark on Basketball History
JOURDAIN BROWN
Jourdain Brown (’24) answered the recruitment call to join the basketball team and began with one persona- basketball athlete. Growing up with an NBA grandfather, Roger Brown of the Indiana Pacers, his love for the game flowed in his veins. IWU’s basketball program called in perfect timing, just after Jourdain made a promise to himself to say yes to the next recruitment phone call after COVID hit and his high school season was cut short. IWU is glad they made the timely call.
“BE IN G IN A N E N V IR ON M E N T W HE R E SE RV I CE MIND E D N E SS COM E S FIR ST HAS HE LPE D S H AP E M E IN D ISC IPLIN G OT HE R PLAY E R S A N D LE A D I NG I N OTH E R A R E AS ON C A M PU S.” He entered IWU as a basketball player first, psychology major second. On campus, he fell into a rhythm of playing ball and going to classes. While he loved his time in the gym with the team, he realized there was a lot more to gain from college than playing basketball. In the gym, the basketball coaches and team members embody the “I am Third” motto. They live with “God first, others second, I’m third” mentality on and off the court. Jourdain says, “Being in an environment where service-mindedness comes first has helped shape me in discipling other players and leading in other areas on campus.” On the team, he also noticed how his coaches would look to him to contribute to the team’s voice. Jourdain said, “The coaches were looking to me. They wanted to hear my ideas and wanted me to lead.” He realized his voice mattered and began seeking ways to serve and lead on campus. He joined student government and the Gospel Choir. And it didn’t take long for Jourdain to find his true passion — illustration.
DISCIPLESHIP CULTURE
Jourdain switched his major from Psychology to Illustration after his first year at IWU. His classes inspired him to grow as an artist. And he’s extremely talented. Just ask the Indy Arts Council who partnered with the NBA All-Star 2024 Host Committee and invited him to contribute to the “Hoosier Historia” art display in downtown Indy when the city hosts the event in February of 2024. Jourdain plans to spend a portion of his last semester creating a piece to contribute to the epic basketball weekend and create his own artistic version of basketball history.
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HITTING THE HIGH BALL
And Answering the High Call
MARTA ZAMBETTI Marta Zambetti anticipated success on the volleyball court as an IWU athlete, but she wasn’t expecting the personal spiritual growth nurtured through teammates, coaches, faculty, and staff at IWU. An international student from Italy, her height and athleticism attracted the attention of international athlete recruiters encouraging her to become a “super senior,” playing at a university while completing a master’s degree. IWU provided the MBA program she sought after and welcomed her to the volleyball team. When Marta first came to campus, she began her classes, all online, and spent time in the gym with her teammates. In Italy, her family practices Catholicism and her parents are active in mentoring young couples. She grew up in a church culture, but very different from the culture of IWU. She says, “The Catholic church in Italy is different. Our prayers are different. Here, Christians pray like they are talking to God for themselves. It’s much more personal and learning how to pray has changed my life.” Thanks to teammate, Macy Staggs, Marta learned how to live as a Christian. Marta says, “Macy was a leader for me; she just keeps showing Christ to me and my teammates.” Her example inspires Marta as she became a “big sister” for other younger players on the team, pushing them on the court to boost their confidence and help them see the positive in everything. Marta enjoys spending time with her team, attending chapel, not because she is required, but because she wants to worship with them.
“ I WA N T TO MAKE A DIFFERENC E . FA I TH G I VE S YOU CONFIDENCE , NOT B EC AU S E YOU HAVE CONTR OL OF EVERYTHING, BUT BECAUS E YOU KN OW WHO IS IN CONT ROL.”
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DISCIPLESHIP CULTURE
Marta plans to return to Italy, hopefully to play professional volleyball in some capacity. The players she will encounter in Italy will not share her faith or the community she enjoys at IWU, but she is willing to share what she’s learned about her faith with them. Her future holds many possibilities: marrying her long-time boyfriend, finding a career in event planning, and using her English language skills to open even more opportunities. One thing is certain, she wants to be a world changer. “I want to make a difference. Faith gives you confidence, not because you have control of everything, but because you know who is in control.”
Featuring the Future “We have daily tasks to keep the ship moving forward, but a strategic plan looks at a relatively short timeframe to accelerate key initiatives that will take us to where God wants us to be in the long run.” JIM VERMILYA Assistant Vice President for Academic Affairs
r. Kulaga’s inaugural year involved much observing and listening. He ate lunch in the dining commons often with students and faculty, spent time with donors and Wesleyan Pastors, met in board meetings, and prayerfully considered how God might guide the future of IWU. Over time, the President, the Board, and the Cabinet developed the framework for the Momentum Plan. Development included 19 Feedback Forums involving almost 500 stakeholders, to help develop a draft which went through revisions for final approval at the October board meeting.
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The current Momentum Plan highlights key initiatives for the University. The work Tod Dalberg, Chief Marketing Officer, is doing with branding blended beautifully with the Momentum Plan because marketing research is helping to shape an intentional strategy for the next three years. The language with new brand messaging from marketing will be reflected in the Momentum Plan.
The initiatives of the plan excite the IWU community most. After the wellattended forums and a growing idea board filled with over 120 initiative ideas from students, faculty, and staff, Dr. Kulaga will settle on the most promising ones. The University will pour focused effort and, ideally, generate growth through the key initiatives. With so many stakeholders giving voice to the framework and initiatives, momentum is growing. The ownership of the plan in the broader IWU community holds promise for the stakeholders to implement initiatives effectively over the next three years under the leadership of Dr. Kulaga. Jim Vermilya, Assistant Vice President for Academic Affairs, says, “The end goal of the Momentum Plan is to operate a healthy institution.” He points to the daily tasks required to keep IWU functioning well and the extra effort it takes to encourage growth in strategic priority areas like those outlined in the Momentum Plan. Vermilya admits, “Sometimes those two things are in competition with each other. We have daily tasks to keep the ship moving forward, but a strategic plan looks at a relatively short timeframe to accelerate key initiatives that will take us to where God wants us to be in the long run.” Dr. Kulaga’s vision originated through a lot of listening. He first approached the community, asking for input and feedback, then he inquired from the cabinet which direction they felt God was leading the University. He also asked the board to reflect on where they felt God was leading IWU for the future. Since the President’s arrival in August of 2022, Vermilya says, “…he’s been listening and learning which will help him lead effectively toward our vision.”
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FACULTY IN ACTION DR. JENNIFER NOSEWORTHY Growing Alliance Gardens and the People Around Her
MOFFITT NAMED VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR
A Tribute to Dedication and Service
When United Way of Grant County awarded Dr. Michael J. Moffitt Sr. the Volunteer of the Year Award, he was shocked. Moffitt serves as Executive Director of Corporate and Community Relations at IWU, working in the Office of Development to see IWU connect and serve in Grant County. Moffitt reveals, “God didn’t just call us to serve at IWU, but he called us to serve in this community as well.” Moffitt says he tries his best to start his day with a “get to” attitude rather than a “have to” mindset. He grew up in
LA and watched his father serve the youth and the elderly. His mother started a “Nails on Wheels” ministry in retirement that focused on the needs of those unable to drive themselves to get a manicure or pedicure. His parents influenced Moffitt to the point where he says, “As a child serving alongside my parents, I felt like serving others was just something that was part of our DNA.” He says, “I just show up and be present.” Moffitt sees a need in the Grant County area and engages people and resources to meet those needs. “You can always do something,” Moffitt encourages. He serves alongside his wife, Latrese, and says, “We see a need and migrate to it.”
Dr. Jennifer Noseworthy’s work with Alliance Gardens, IWU’s campus farm, meets needs in Grant County through growing plants and teaching others the value of nutrition. Noseworthy, an Associate Professor of Biology, was raised in poverty and is no stranger to food insecurity. The goals she set for Alliance gardens are birthed from a heart of compassion. Partnering with the Marion Community Garden Association and Thriving
DR. AMANDA DRURY EMPOWERS OTHERS TO LAUNCH MINISTRIES THROUGH GRANT WRITING When Dr. Amanda Drury, a practical theology professor, heard female senior students admit, “I didn’t know I could major in ministry,” she wanted to bring change and wrote her first grant. This launched an IWU ministry called “Examen.” Drury was inspired to write more grants and teach others to do the same. Today, Drury is overseeing 8.5 million dollars in grant money and is engaged with Wesleyan churches across the country as they explore fresh ways of loving God and others. Working alongside her team of Ronnie
Grant County Thriving Mill Township, Noseworthy offers several pathways to meet food insecurity in Marion: through educating high school students, offering fresh produce for sale, and donating produce to local food banks. Part of Noseworthy’s work in the gardens is using honeybees as pollinators. She spins out and bottles honey to sell or offer as gifts. Her efforts earned her grant funds from the USDA to further impact education for IWU students and provision for Grant County residents. This program proves organic in several ways and fulfills Noseworthy as a biologist and humanitarian.
Farmer, Lauren Shepherd, Brandon Charleston, Carson Stout, Ethan Linder, and Shami Grieve, Drury enjoys the collaborative spirit of grant writing, asking effective questions to request available funds to meet needs in today’s ministries. In addition to working alongside Wesleyan churches, Drury and her team are providing support to over 150 nonprofits engaged in Christian parenting initiatives. The empowerment gifted to these ministries through grant writing is a gift to Drury. She says, “I love the creative problem solving embedded in the grant writing process and watching ministries try something new.”
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E D UCAT IO N I N SP IR E S I N FLUE NTI AL LE A DE R Alumnus Makes Political History images courtesy of City of Colorado Springs
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WU alumnus, Blessing ‘Yemi’ Mobolade, is making history. This summer Mobolade was sworn in as the 42nd mayor of Colorado Springs, CO. He is the first Black man and first immigrant to be elected mayor of Colorado Springs. Mobolade moved from Indiana to Colorado Springs. His time in Indiana grew him into the leader he is today, and he attributes some of that growth to IWU.
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Mobolade graduated with a master’s degree from IWU’s online MBA in 2006, studying management and leadership. In 2010, he moved from Indiana to Colorado Springs to plant a church. While living in the city, he observed a need for cultural gathering spaces. In 2013, he became one of the first entrepreneurs to invest in the downtown area of Colorado Springs after the recession when he co-founded The Wild Goose Meeting House. Taking it a step further, Mobolade established a nonprofit organization called COSILoveYou which works to unite more than 100 area churches for service to the Colorado Springs Area. Then, in 2017, he co-founded Good Neighbors Meeting House, another gathering place. He worked hard, leveraging his success as an entrepreneur and business owner. Colorado Springs took notice, and he began working as the Vice President of Business Retention and Expansion at the Colorado Springs Chamber & Economic Development Corporation. Here he exercised great care for local employers and attracted new companies to the downtown area during a period of record job growth for the city. In 2019, Mobolade served the City of Colorado Springs as a small business administrator, offering tools to assist start-up businesses. This role led to many collaborative efforts with Colorado Spring’s public and private sectors, preparing him for a 2022 campaign run for mayor.
Mobolade said, “A good leader is quick to communicate their vision. A great leader is quick to listen to inspire a shared vision. When leaders accept a position of responsibility, taking the time to hear and connect with their constituents helps them build credibility and make betterinformed decisions.” Mobolade took boots to the ground in the communities of Colorado Springs during his first 100 days in office on a “listening tour.” He created a 3,000-person team and assembled Solutions Teams among them, grouping diverse and often opposing personalities. He made his rounds to each group, listening to both the good and the bad through a safe and effective forum.
at the age of 17. He’s been investing in his leadership and ministry ever since. He serves as mayor with the support of his wife, Abbey, a nurse and nursing educator. They have three young children. IWU applauds Blessing ‘Yemi’ Mobolade in his undying efforts of leadership to benefit the people of Colorado Springs. His historic campaign and election leave an indelible mark on history and IWU is humbled to have served a small part in the development of such a leader. Mobolade concludes, “The strength of a leader is the ability to influence, inspire, and guide a team of people to accomplish the impossible. This is who I wanted to be. This is who I am. This is who I will continue to be.”
Listening may well be Mobolade’s “secret sauce.” He says, “Listening is the essential ingredient of effective leadership. To move anything successfully forward in any project, in any business, in any industry, people must be heard, included, and involved. Furthermore, listening helps me build rapport with people, demonstrates humility, and shows that I value the input of others. In the end, I am modeling the type of behavior I expect from my department heads.” When IWU creates a mission to produce world changers, the results are always awe-inspiring and truly humbling. IWU played an integral role in Mobolade’s pathway to leadership. He says, “Indiana Wesleyan University was instrumental in helping to solidify my leadership calling. I was inspired by my classmates and professors who were practitioners in the field. My master’s thesis centered around the difference between management and leadership.” His work at IWU served him well. He went on to study theology and intellectual leadership from the A.W. Tozer Theological Seminary, part of Simpson University in Redding, California. His undergraduate program at Bethel University in Mishawaka, Indiana originally brought him to the United States
“A GOOD LEADER IS QUICK TO COMMUNICATE THEIR VISION. A GREAT LEADER IS QUICK TO LISTEN TO INSPIRE A SHARED VISION.” ‘YEMI’ MOBOLADE ’06
Indiana Wesleyan University 25
Wesley Seminary
IN GOOD HANDS
r. Yamil Acevedo accepted the position of Executive Vice President of Wesley Seminary this fall. His acceptance comes after serving as the Interim EVP of Wesley Seminary. During his time leading the Seminary, Dr. Acevedo quickly established a strong rapport with both the leadership team and faculty and immediately began addressing the enrollment challenges at the Seminary.
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Dr. Jon Kulaga, President of Indiana Wesleyan University stated, “He has done an excellent job closing the gap to ensure the Seminary achieves its enrollment goals. I appreciate his commitment to building stronger relationships between Wesley Seminary, Wesleyan churches, and Indiana Wesleyan University, as well as the larger Wesleyan evangelical theological family both domestically and internationally.” Under his leadership, Acevedo has and will continue to strive to bring clarity and boldness to the value of equipping people for contextual ministry engagement to reach spheres of influence for the glory of God. Dr. Acevedo’s skills and past experiences have been preparing him for this leadership role. He began his experience with IWU as an adjunct professor for Wesley Seminary and then became the Director of Theological Programs in Spanish. His rapport with current faculty and staff helped bring stability
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when former president, Dr. Colleen Derr stepped down. His initial leadership helped to prioritize tasks and focus on taking care of the people of Wesley Seminary. Dr. Acevedo believes Wesley Seminary’s future progress will be indicative of how well he prioritizes relationships with the people there. He longs to cultivate a community of prayer— faculty and staff who serve together and support each other in this crucial work. He also acknowledges God’s ultimate care for the Seminary. In a prayer meeting at the start of Dr. Acevedo’s leadership, he reminded faculty of Psalm 11 and God’s sovereignty. He says, “…as some steadfast things are removed, God remains sovereign through the transitions...he remains in control.” Dr. Acevedo is confident in God’s plan for Wesley Seminary and is ready to co-labor with all faculty and staff in this broader plan. One of the main goals Dr. Acevedo hopes to work towards is to solidify Wesley Seminary’s identity and distinctives
“I appreciate his commitment to building stronger relationships between Wesley Seminary, Wesleyan churches, and Indiana Wesleyan University, as well as the larger Wesleyan evangelical theological family both domestically and internationally.”
among the Wesleyan family and beyond. Through a community of collaboration and prayer, he desires to continue creating bridges between the church and academy, communicating with clarity and boldness to Christians everywhere the value of equipping themselves for contextual ministry engagement to reach their spheres of influence whether in vocational ministry or a secular job. At Wesley Seminary, the faculty invests in each student personally and is a place where pastors are fully trained. By focusing on each student for equipping and mobilizing in ministry, the leaders grown at Wesley Seminary are creating a global impact. Dr. Acevedo is ready and able to lead these efforts, and with God’s guidance, he will move Wesley Seminary to a place of even greater impact. He says, “God continues to be faithful. He still has a lot in store for the seminary.”
“…as some steadfast things are removed, God remains sovereign through the transitions…he remains in control.” DR. YAMIL ACEVEDO Executive Vice President of Wesley Seminary
He believes this can help to continue defining their place within the global Wesleyan Church and the IWU community, benefitting students, their families, alumni, and ministries. As the seminary is ushered into this new season, Dr. Acevedo prays that people everywhere will see what they are doing and step in to contribute and support their global impact. He desires to communicate the identity of WS as they contribute to the unified formation of the global church to accomplish God’s mission for this century. Dr. Acevedo leads with excitement. He says, “Wesley Seminary is encircled by an exceptional team, each of whom, from their diverse spheres of influence and ministry, wholeheartedly dedicates themselves to its mission. We eagerly anticipate what God has prepared for the seminary and its students. I am thankful for the opportunity to collaborate in HIS mission in this capacity.” Holding loosely to his own agenda will serve WS well as Dr. Acevedo seeks God in leadership, listens to those around him, and serves the students with a bright mind and full heart. Rest assured; Wesley Seminary is in good hands.
DR. JON KULAGA President Indiana Wesleyan University 27
MEET THE TEAM
Engaging Alumni and Donors John Jones Vice President for University Advancement
Becca Bowlin Assistant Director of Donor Relations
I oversee primary responsibility for fundraising initiatives and leadership of all University Advancement affairs. I get to meet with some amazing people, and we get to tell an amazing story about Indiana Wesleyan University.
I support the team in the creation of scholarships and thanking donors. I love collecting stories of scholarships and how they have impacted students here at IWU. I also really enjoy hearing about the donors' passions and seeing their generosity in action.
“As I look to the future, the opportunities are without limit as we expand the impact Advancement efforts will have on the future of IWU. Over the next several months, we will unfold strategies that will engage our 110,000 alumni in new and exciting ways. These will include initiating a new Alumni Board, regional alumni events, and consistent and meaningful communications from our office. We will also begin building new bridges with new and old friends of IWU that allow us to find common interest to invest in our students, programs, and spaces. Together we can ensure IWU is positioned well to be that light of hope our founders of 103 years ago envisioned we would be. It is an exciting time to be at IWU!”
Sarah Stout ’13 Administrative Assistant to the Vice President for University Advancement (VPUA) I manage the VPUA’s office and serve as a liaison between the various units in Advancement. I assure our team has the resources and information needed to excel in their tasks. It’s also a delight connecting with our guests and donors, hearing their stories and making them feel welcomed and valued.
Tanya Ford Executive Director of Advancement Operations I support all units of Advancement by ensuring all their data and resource needs are met. I love knowing that the work my team and I do helps to support the mission of Indiana Wesleyan.
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Angie Mosier Associate Director of Prospect Research and Management I help to identify prospective donors and manage those relationships. I also oversee management of research, prepare reports, and ensure prospects are moved through the engagement cycle. I love knowing that God has placed me with a team that supports the mission and vision of Indiana Wesleyan University. It gives me a sense of joy.
Jodi Small Gift Processor & Data Coordinator I process daily donor gifts and ensure data integrity in our database. I feel accomplished when crediting and acknowledging donors’ gifts to the university and crediting them to the proper designations to be used appropriately.
Suzie Weesner Director of Advancement Services I create, disperse, and manage gift reports to our team and our university partners as well as oversee the management of our system of record for all university data. I enjoy being able to use and perfect my skills and abilities in SQL query writing as well as learning to use new products that allow us to work more efficiently within Advancement Operations.
Steven Gidley ’13 Director of Annual Giving I work with individuals who see Indiana Wesleyan as a place to give of their time and treasures. What makes working in Advancement special is everybody’s servant heart and their pursuit of excellence for a university they love.
Ken Griffin Executive Director of Development I build and steward lasting relationships with individual donors; inviting them to support significant initiatives and opportunities like scholarships and projects. I enjoy connecting with our constituents and matching their passions with our opportunities to impact our students and further the Kingdom.
Elvin Weinmann Senior Director of Development I serve on the Development Team focusing primarily on Planned Giving and Estate Planning. I am grateful to be serving many of our Heritage constituents who have been involved with supporting and praying for IWU for many years.
Joel W. Hunt Executive Director of University Relations I work with the University Relations Team as we help to create opportunities that facilitate special experiences of connection for our alumni, families, and donors that encourage a lifelong relationship with IWU. I love the members of the University Relations team and their passion for excellence as they serve our constituents.
Gidget Hamner Director of University Advancement Communications, Events, and Projects I partner with Advancement units to envision and organize impactful events and meaningful communications for IWU donors and alumni. I cherish the profound sense of purpose and impact it brings. I have the privilege of connecting with individuals who are deeply committed to our organization's mission and values.
Jaclyn Gidley ’12 Director of Alumni & Church Relations I implement and manage our Alumni Board, designing ways to intentionally engage all our alumni, and working with others in Advancement on team strategic initiatives. I love connecting with our alumni, and appreciate the strong and rich heritage the Lord has blessed Marion College/Indiana Wesleyan University with over the years.
Michael Moffitt Executive Director for Corporate and Community Relations
Jewelle Canter Administrative Assistant for University Relations
I focus on building strategic partnerships with Executive Leaders in the Corporate sector. I enjoy creating pathways and identifying areas for alumni, friends, and companies to invest in our university through their, time, talents, and treasures.
I serve a support role on the University Relations Team in the Alumni House. I love that two days are never the same which makes for an exciting work week. I also love the team environment and everyone helping where needed.
Indiana Wesleyan University 29
Tribute Gifts
GIFTS GIVEN IN MEMORIAM
Dr. Byron Tippey Dr. John and Marla Beineke Dr. David L. Riggs Ann Vermilion, Michelle Hearn, College Wesleyan Church, The Center Group, Larry and Connie Carnes, Judy Johnson, Dr. Judith Justice and James Uebelhoer, John and Heidi Lakanen, Rev. Chuck and Cindy McCallum, Rev. David and Rosalyn Vardaman, Dr. Jerry and Cindy Pattengale, Dr. Don and Donna Sprowl, Justin Colwell and Melia Sneden-Colwell, Anne and Roger Bainbridge Dr. Don Ott Myrna Itterman, Judith Zylman, Karen Saul, Sandra Lucas, Pledgeling Foundation Dr. Peter S Rhetts Morgan Stanley, Global Impact Funding Dr. Rachel Satterfield Norma Atkinson
Mrs. Joy Storey Bill and Jan Beekman, Brian Maddox, Richard and Evalyn Sprowl, William Rock Jr., James Kurz, Stephen Koontz, Ronald and Sharon Campbell, Mary Koontz, Carmen and Roger Mueller, Linda and James Cabe, Rev. Everett and Jean Freels, Phil and Marilyn Speicher
Mrs. Rebecca Wooters Glenda Troyer
Mr. John Storey Carol Clark, Elvin and Cyndi Weinmann, Stephen Koontz, Brian Maddox, Mary Koontz, Linda and James Cabe, Julie Patten, S Atkinson, Rev. Howard Castle, James R Sutter Homesteaders Life, College Wesleyan Church, Al and Peg Harker, H. Joseph & Jackie Certain, Martin Harker, Adrien Rines Hammond, Veronica Nicholson, Rock Concessions, Jo Atkinson, Shively Family, Jennie Chastain, Rev. Chuck and Cindy McCallum
Rev. Dr. Harold Gunsalus Esther Erdman, James Stevens, Mary Gunsalus
Dr. Robert Mitchell Dr. John and Marla Beineke
Mr. Richard J. Halt Elvin and Cyndi Weinmann, Barbara K Beadle, Rock Concessions
Dr. Wayne E Caldwell Susan Cromier
Mr. Vincent Kurtz Randy and Candy Sweigart
Miss Rita Lone Rodney Lone, Dr. Harriet and Ner Rojas Miss Sue Bowman Barbara Ihrke, Kyle and Pamela Turner, Tony Tracey, Cherry McKee, Sara Spahr, Jeff and Linda Young, Phyllis Lolkus, Jim Nicholson, Anonymous Donor, Blanche Backich, Sally Crump, Mike and Karen Roorbach, Thomas Tracy, Micky Maynard, Ruth Irvin Mrs. Catherine Wing Bob and Elaine Wing Mrs. Clara Goodman Bob and Elaine Wing Mrs. Donna Anthony Peggy Bailey Mrs. Esther Norris Elvin and Cyndi Weinmann, James and Tracy Gresley, Anonymous Donor, Lee Ann Glade, Sarah Reilly
30 Triangle Fall|Winter 2023
Mr. Wayne Pence Elvin and Cyndi Weinmann Mrs. Alice Wills Nancy Groshong Mrs. Betty Martin College Wesleyan Church, Tillman and Mary Smith, Samuel and Linda Smith, Gregory and Bonnie Smith, David and Cynthia Maurer Mrs. Carol Rush David and Linda Owen, S Atkinson, Jo Atkinson, John and Diane Schultz Mrs. Lisa Crandall Colony Park Apartments, Nancy Krois Mrs. Lois Boone Annette Waldkoetter, John and Judith Boone Mrs. Mildred Nivison Anonymous Donor
Mrs. Vera Morehouse Georgina Morehouse Mrs. Vivian Freeman Gregory Myers, Claudia Faulk, Francis DeBoer, Gregory and Nancy Atchison
Rev. Dr. Mark Eckart Elvin and Cyndi Weinmann Rev. John Heavilin College Wesleyan Church, Dan and Layla Solms, Tamara Brown, Norma Stuve Dr. Robert Williams Thomas Ward
GIFTS GIVEN IN HONOR Dr. David W. Wright Dr. Wil and Cynthia Davis Mr. Douglas Ferguson Neil Thornhill
In Memoriam
HONORING ALUMNI WHO HAVE PASSED
Jane (Hester) Asplin ’49 June 24, 2023 Martha (Painter) Bradford ’37 August 17, 2023 Beth (Wagner) Klamm ’46 October 9, 2021 Dorothy (Schmer) Coates ’47 February 24, 2022 Howard Moore ’47 January 1, 2022 Ora Evon (Gaberdiel) Becker ’48 March 13, 2022
Carolyn (Woodhead) Duecker ’50 February 15, 2023 Helen (Brown) Shigley ’50 June 11, 2022 Vera (Dunwiddie) Morehouse ’50 June 11, 2022 Norma (Clawson) Stuve ’50 September 8, 2021 Esther Williamson ’47 May 6, 2022 Margaret (Gunby) Penrod ’51 May 15, 2023 Harold Pitts ’51 May 25, 2023 Tressie Stair ’51 July 27, 2022 Raymond Riley ’51 September 22, 2021 John Heavilin ’51 & ’52 June 19, 2022 Margaret (Devol) Mosher ’52 June 26, 2023 Betty (Timberman) Carlisle ’52 October 16, 2022 Betty (Hicks) Christler ’52 August 28, 2023 Betty (Stephens) Ferree ’52 September 1, 2023 Frank Harris ’52 September 26, 2022 William Terry ’52 February 16, 2023 Ross Trump ’52 March 21, 2022 Alice (Bowman) Wills ’52 May 5, 2022 Elma (Hatten) Black ’53 August 21, 2022
Eunice (Smith) Friske ’49 January 23, 2023
Norman Handy ’53 October 31, 2022
Lois (Buck) Boone ’49 August 17, 2022
Sarah (Hoppes) McMackin ’54 July 15, 2023
Ruby (Tucker) Clerget ’49 May 2, 2023
Barbara Earley ’54 April 16, 2022
Dorothy (Schalling) Moore ’55 January 5, 2023
Paula (Anderson) Tieffel ’72 July 24, 2022
Meredith (Towner) Kindschi ’55 September 21, 2021
Donna (Barker) Landis ’61 June 15, 2023
Mary (Ervin) Surface ’64 May 13, 2022
Paul Dowty ’72 November 16, 2021
Ethel (Calhoon) Higgins ’55 December 23, 2022
Verna (Schrecengost) Clifford ’61 May 13, 2022
Rachel (Dishon) Satterfield ’64 March 19, 2022
Terry Hobbs ’72 August 8, 2023
Norma (Fanning) Trump ’56 April 9, 2022
Clarence Wandrei ’64 June 24, 2022
Ronald Powell ’73 December 29, 2022
Benjamine Drown ’56 September 29, 2022
Lorelei (Chiarelott) Apel ’65 August 10, 2022
Jane (Nuzum) Oradat ’73 March 4, 2023
Damaris (Vardaman) Holloway ’56 September 22, 2022
Rita Lone ’61 July 8, 2022
Ruth (Hicks) Watson ’65 August 2, 2022
Michael Roorbach ’73 April 3, 2023
Curtis Peacock ’56 November 29, 2022
Patty Ault ’62 October 21, 2021
Duaine Snyder ’65 February 23, 2023
Alexis (Emmons) Fessenden ’73 February 20, 2023
Hazel (Jaycox) Brown-Farrar ’57 July 29, 2022
Roger Budde ’62 April 18, 2023
Timothy Wells ’65 February 5, 2022
Raymond Hunt ’73 December 14, 2021
Martha (Alverson) Pearson ’57 August 18, 2022
Betty (Bogue) North ’66 July 19, 2022
Randall Habegger ’72 & ’73 April 1, 2022
Noramae (Smith) Ladd ’62 September 14, 2021
Charlotte Bates ’57 March 30, 2022
Vicky (Goodman) Benson ’66 April 23, 2022
Lynda (Strasser) Cretsinger ’74 October 2, 2021
Marian Peterson ’62 March 13, 2023
Merlin Loomis ’57 March 14, 2022
John Charles Mealy ’67 October 31, 2021
Donna (Swan) Siders ’74 March 2, 2022
Helen Sloan ’63 April 14, 2022
Wayne McCartney ’58 September 1, 2021
Mary Hubbard ’68 March 17, 2023
Rebecca (Troyer) Wooters ’74 February 9, 2023
Ronald Smith ’63 December 29, 2021
Shirley (Wright) Hayes ’58 February 9, 2022
Foster Chin ’68 April 29, 2022
Earl Rutherford ’99 April 10, 2022
Doris Wall ’74 May 26, 2022
Lowell Flint ’59 January 10, 2023
Janet (Jacobs) Bragg ’69 November 26, 2021
Holly Zeller ’00 December 17, 2021
Michael Jackson ’75 March 25, 2022
Ronald Herring ’59 August 22, 2023
Patricia (McKitrick) McClure ’70 March 28, 2022
Nicole (Weyer) Wieringa ’00 April 12, 2023
Gary Real ’75 July 12, 2022
John Howell ’59 May 18, 2022
James Dayton ’70 December 6, 2022
Andrew Haeck ’03 September 20, 2023
Anthony Mack ’76 September 23, 2021
Joyce (Warvel) Travis ’70 September 2, 2023
Alison Walls ’05 & ’12 June 9, 2022
Ruth (Derogee) Hubbard ’59 June 6, 2022
Robert North ’83 March 2, 2022
Suzanne (Vardaman) Vardaman ’71 August 3, 2022
David O’Neal ’07 August 27, 2023
Patricia (Lamb) McCauley ’71 September 1, 2021 Virginia (Parker) McCarty ’71 September 18, 2022 Donna (Welch) Anthony ’71 March 2, 2022 Mary (Trump) Troyer ’71 November 9, 2021 Janice (Rigsbee) Kulczyk ’71 September 3, 2021 Barbara (Ryan) Hacker ’72 September 17, 2022
Theodore Heino ’11 October 15, 2022 Amanda (Murray) Whitesel ’15 June 13, 2022 Roderick Peters ’16 June 22, 2023 Allison Custer ’16 & ’20 March 3, 2023
Marilyn Hunter ’59 October 21, 2022
Jack Houser ’61 October 9, 2022 Earl Kring ’61 May 22, 2022
Joy (Hardman) Storey ’78 March 8, 2023
Harold Jackson ’59 September 24, 2022 Leigh Nygard ’59 January 9, 2022 Franklin Shannon ’59 June 15, 2023 Michael Huffaker ’59 February 9, 2022
Lucas Brown ’18 & ’20 July 8, 2023
Janice (Woodbury) Gibbel ’60 July 21, 2023
Elizabeth Groce ’21 January 1, 2023
Earl Jackson ’60 November 2, 2021
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