Judson Today - Summer 2012

Summer 2012

JUDSON today A Magazine for Friends and Alumni of Judson University

Nobel Laureate Mikhail Gorbachev Inspires Youth to Create Change Judson Welcomes New Leaders Judson Celebrates Leadership of Dr. Jerry Cain Newt Gingrich Holds Campaign Stop at Judson

A Final Note the President From the Desk of nds,

ie Dear Judson Fr

with my t, reconnecting en em tir re to d rwar e mission school, I look fo as we advance th od s er go th is ro th C at s rk la ar some of iam C After 14 ye y, you can review ton to Dr. Will da ba e To th on g ds in Ju ss of pa esident who edition family and r new interim pr sewhere in this ou El t . ee ity m rs d ve an ni U r all you h 2012 of Judson ar my thanks fo om 1998 throug he fr s se ht ea Pl lig n. gh gi hi our shared of Judson in El gher education. to the 50th year the church in hi will guide us in of k or w e th lp us do n have done to he aft of our Visio e preliminary dr th rms ed affi su d is s an ha ds now stan Committee on ng ds ni Ju an ch Pl hi c w gi The Strate ur pillars on highlights the fo e future.

Statement which be into rigid we will in th ho w r fo s si ba ng to the right e lli fa t ou ith these as th w ible as the versity phasis on the B al Christian Uni em lic ng ge ro an st Ev a n an ai g through Jesus e will maint itted to bein nship with God tio la re • Judson is comm nor to left into mushy liberalism. W al on rs directs us to a pe fundamentalism This document e. tic ac pr d an basis for our faith ude toward those who suffer. and students. attit both professors om fr and a responsive e nc lle ce ic ex classroom. expects academ ery course and ev at th in ty ed si ag er iv ur co un d will be en ormed by the inue to be a • Judson will cont ill be met and exceeded and the minsus (Phil. 2:5) and then to be transf w t Je Accreditations at was in Chris . 12:2). e mind in us th m sa Testament (Rom at ew th N re e si th de in We ed ag ur co personnel will r minds as en s programs and pu am renewing of ou C . on rs total pe ip development, oning, leadersh and educate the iti ge nd ga co en ide al to ic ys on nships, ph man, we will gu pt its missi • Judson will acce social relationships, marital relatio stature and in favor with God and ith dom, in be concerned w sus grew in wis Je s A n. io at rm and spiritual fo tal being. e University. develop their to to ts en ud s entrusted to th st ce r ur ou so re e th l urces and d of al ces, natural reso be a good stewar ur ill so w re l on ca ds ni Ju ch , s we have at the urces, te e happen and the 90 acre , ces, human reso gs ur in so • To make the abov ild re al bu , ci ts an wmen from God. for the fin r budgets, endo if they are gifts ou as s We are grateful up ce e ur ak so m re e ch es urces whi e will treat all th constructed reso d Fox River. W an ek me plan for re C r le Ty emerge as our ga d an confluence of r te es m se ading this the next essor Jeff Carl le of developed over Pr be d to an t ue en in id nt God! I look rim pres cument will co the promises of as Crothers as inte r. ht ig D br This nascent do ith as W is e. re s of Judson lif on that the futu the next 50 year Adoniram Juds ith w e re ag I , ee itt planning comm develop. ing that future ch at w to d forwar undi, Christus Lux M Jerry Cain, Past President

JUDSON TODAY EDITORIAL STAFF EDITOR Mary Dulabaum Director of Communications & Marketing

JUDSON today Summer 2012

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Bethany Suckrow ‘09 LAYOUT AND PRODUCTION Kat Ammann ’10 Jen Phelps ’12

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MANAGING PHOTOGRAPHER Kevin Sherman ’09 SPORTS WRITER & PHOTOGRAPHER Adam Ledyard Director of Sports Information ALUMNOTES EDITOR Bonnie Bienert Director of Alumni Relations JUDSON UNIVERSITY ADMINISTRATION INTERIM PRESIDENT William Crothers ACTING PROVOST & VICE PRESIDENT FOR ACADEMIC AFFAIRS Wilbert Friesen INTERIM VICE PRESIDENT FOR BUSINESS AFFAIRS John Potter EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF ENROLLMENT SERVICES Nancy Binger VICE PRESIDENT FOR EXTERNAL RELATIONS Tory Gum VICE PRESIDENT FOR STUDENT DEVELOPMENT LeAnn Pauley Heard Judson Today is a bi-annual magazine published by the Communications Office at Judson University. Please send address changes and correspondence to Judson Today c/o Advancement Office, 1151 North State St., Elgin, IL 60123 or email mdulabaum@JudsonU.edu.

C O V E R

P H O T O

President Mikhail Gorbachev addresses students at the second annual World Leaders Forum on April 21, 2012.

F E A T U R E S

Exploring Missions............................................................................................. 4 Students discover the legacy of Adoniram Judson at Salem Bicentennial.

Goodbye, Dr. Cain............................................................................................... 6

Judson celebrates the leadership of President Dr. Jerry Cain, who retired on June 30.

Judson Welcomes Interim President.......................................................10 Dr. William Clark Crothers begins service as Interim President for 2012-13.

World Leaders Forum 2012..........................................................................12 Nobel Laureate Mikhail Gorbachev inspires youth to create change.

Equipping Students to Love God and Neighbor................................19 History Professor Dr. Jim Halverson shares his love for learning and teaching.

Design Alumnus Builds Business Network via Twitter...................21 Join Us Online!

Benjamin Krogh '11 uses social media site to network with designers and find full-time employment.

I N JudsonU.edu

E V E R Y

I S S U E

Faculty Accomplishments.............................................................................18 Alumnotes............................................................................................................20 Athletics.................................................................................................................24 Season Wrap-ups on Men’s Basketball, Women’s Basketball, Men’s and Women’s Tennis, Golf Teams, Baseball, Softball, Men’s Lacrosse, and Track and Field.

Exploring Missions: Students Discover the Legacy of Adoniram Judson at Salem Bicentennial by Noah Adams '13 “Isn’t that the place with all the witches?”

This was my first response when fellow classmate Joey McCartney and I were asked to be student representatives for Judson University in Noah Adams '13 and Joey McCartney '13 Salem, Mass., this past February. While it is indeed the home of the Salem Witch Trials of 1692, Salem is also the home of Tabernacle Church, which commissioned American missionaries abroad on February 6, 1812.

Adoniram Judson, our university’s namesake, led the team to India, and later to Burma (the country known today as Myanmar.)

We traveled to Salem to celebrate the bicentennial anniversary of this historic voyage, Adoniram Judson’s life and legacy, from February 17-19 at the request of missions Professor Dr. Dave Sanders, who was unable to attend the conference himself.

Ministry and missions are my passion; it was a great honor to be asked to represent Judson University in celebration of God’s work through early American missionaries like Adoniram Judson. Joey and I eagerly accepted the invitation and soon set out for New England.

All weekend, we were surrounded by missionaries, seminary professors, and church historians who shared their expertise and experiences with missional theology. The town itself exuded profound history with centuries-old homes, cobblestone roads, and some of the most beautiful early American churches I have ever seen.

For our first session of the weekend, Dr. Allen Yeh of Biola University took his place behind the picturesque pulpit in front of Tabernacle Church’s 168-year old historic sanctuary, which houses the very bench at which Adoniram Judson knelt to be ordained. In

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a very engaging lecture, Yeh addressed the nature of missions and the vital role that college students and universities have played in missions over the past 200 years, and still continues to play today.

Five graduate students from various theological schools sat behind him for a roundtable discussion about students and missions, the topic for the evening.

“I left with the realization that it is a great honor to call myself a student of Judson University.”

– Noah Adams, Christian Ministry Major '13 I arrived in Salem that Friday expecting to learn about missions, what is going on in the rest of the world, and about the history of Adoniram Judson and his journeys as a missionary. Though I did learn about these topics, I left with something even more important: I left with the realization that it is a great honor to call myself a student of Judson University. I gained a greater understanding of the theology of missions and a clearer vision for the bigger picture of missions and how much God has done in just the past 200 years.

Perhaps most importantly, I left with the sense that God can make a lasting impact through me, through Judson University, and through all Christians.

When it comes to missions, there is always more to do. Adoniram Judson and other early American missionaries understood this and lived in full devotion to God’s calling. Every aspect of our lives ought to reflect a passion for sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

The purpose of missions is not about where we want to go, serve, or live. It is not about what group we want to help, nor is it something that Christians do out of mere obligation. Missions is about coming alongside God in His plan for this world and saying to Him, “I want be a part of that, what would you have me do?”

Sophomore Architecture Students Prepare for Natural Disaster by Bethany Suckrow '09

Kevin Sherman ’09

Students of the sophomore architecture studio class were hard at work last spring preparing for the next natural disaster. For the first time, the sophomore students competed in the Disaster Shelter Competition, sponsored by World Vision and John Brown University (JBU), to design and build a prototype of an emergency shelter for rapid deployment and set-up, which will be used by aid organizations to respond to natural or man-made disasters anywhere in the world.

“This was a first for the sophomore studio class because they usually work on residential design only,” says Professor Stacie Burtelson. “But our faculty felt that this class was up to the challenge. They really took on the task with passion and it showed in their work.”

Burtelson also explained that Judson was the only architecture program to enter the competition; the rest of the contestants come from engineering programs at other universities.

“We felt that this was an important opportunity because architects only contribute 3 percent of built environments within at-risk communities,” Burtelson says, referencing a statistic from Marie

Aquilino’s book, “Beyond Shelter.”

“We want to instill that humanitarian focus in our students and help them integrate their education and their faith to answer the Kevin Sherman ’09 question, ‘How can I be both an architect and a Christian?’ We can address the world’s problems by following Christ’s call to fulfill basic human needs.”

The semester-long project began in early January, when each of the 24 students designed preliminary concepts, followed by a critique to narrow down the choices. From the preliminary critique, six designs were chosen, and the 24 students separated into six teams to refine the designs. At a second critique, several practitioners surveyed their work and chose the top two designs. Once the top two were chosen, the class split into two teams to make revisions and prepare full-scale prototypes, which six students slept in overnight, along with one member from each design team.

Although both designs were entered into the official competition at JBU, the campus-wide vote was essential, explains Burtelson, because it allowed students to fully test the viability of their work and make necessary adjustments. The students were expected to construct their prototypes again at the JBU competition, held April 20-21, where Judson University’s TEAM 1 took third place overall in the competition.

“It was definitely a fantastic learning experience, and a blessed time working with one another for a worthy cause,” says Burtelson. “We are planning to continue the relationship with World Vision and John Brown University for next year’s competition.”

Student Life

photos by Allen Mowers '12, Kendall Oliver '14 and Adam Van Campen '14 From Left: Students of the Judson Theater perform for the winter production Almost, Maine; Student Service Award Winners Ryan Reopelle and Rebekah Street; Diana Czeslawa plays with the local children on the spring Dominican Republic missions trip; graduates gather at spring commencement 2012.

WINTER 2012

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CELEBRATING THE LEADERSHIP OF

“He has been a passionate ambassador locally, nationally and internationally for Judson, and his love for this institution has been evident in his tireless efforts to expand its impact.”

— Carol Thompson ’77, Chair, Board of Trustees

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President Jerry Cain made his formal announcement last fall to the Judson community that he would retire in June.

“After 37 years in Baptist higher education, and after talking in-depth with Linda, I feel it is time to relinquish my leadership role at Judson University,” stated Dr. Cain. “It has been a great honor to lead this godly institution, and I hope the 2011-12 school year has been one of the best in Judson’s history.”

Cain commented that he is deeply grateful for the opportunity to fulfill his calling to Christian higher education at Judson and will follow the lead of his four predecessors by remaining a strong advocate for the University.

Speaking on behalf of the Board of Trustees, Mrs. Carol Thompson, Board Chair and a 1977 Judson graduate, noted, “We are so thankful for all Dr. Cain has done to advance the mission and purpose of Judson University. He has been a passionate

ambassador locally, nationally and internationally for Judson, and his love for this institution has been evident in his tireless efforts to expand its impact.”

Cain, Judson’s fifth president since opening its Elgin location in 1963, has led a myriad of positive changes, most notably the transition from Judson College to Judson University. Cain also led several major capital projects, including the construction of the Harm A. Weber Academic Center.

“Dr. Cain successfully led Judson through one of the most challenging economic times in our nation’s history,” stated Pastor Nat Edmond, trustee and chair of the Judson Board’s External Relations Committee.

“The expansion of the campus and consistent enrollment is a testimony to his skills, talent and commitment to Judson. We praise God for his dedicated leadership, and I pray God’s blessings upon him and Linda as they move into the next phase of what God has for them.”

Robb Davidson ’08

By Bethany Suckrow ’09

He enriched our lives by eloquently weaving the history of Adoniram Judson into the fabric of our community, remembering birthdays, knowing us by name, diligently praying for us, showing authentic concern for our well being, and generally caring about our lives. He made us feel unique, esteemed and valued.

— LeAnn Pauley Heard '91, Cabinet member, Vice President and Dean for Student Affairs

While Dr. Cain learned the Judson culture and community quickly, he also brought his own personality and traditions. From small details like enlisting a student to play bagpipes at Founders’ Day to major changes like moving Judson from college to university or building the Harm A. Weber Academic Center, Dr. Cain has always seemed to strike a good balance between conservative and progressive leadership. From the early days he has been well loved and respected by the students especially, and also by the Elgin and Fox Valley community. His ability to bring positive change at Judson has always been enhanced by his strong relationships.

— Nate Adams '80, Trustee

A Legacy of Change Look what we have done over the past 14 years!

Congratulations to the entire Judson community who moved Judson forward from 1998 to 2012.

— Dr. Jerry Cain

BRICKS & STICKS Judson’s landscape has seen a lot of changes since 1998. Here are the ways we’ve improved our facilities over 14 years.

• Build-outs: Floors two, three, five and the kitchen/classroom area of Lindner Tower • New Construction: Creekside South, Rockford Campus, Harm A. Weber Academic Center, Softball Field • Renovations: Alice and Edward Thompson Center, Center for Science and Mathematics, Hoffer Baseball Field, Volkman Hall, Bathrooms in Ohio Hall • Secured resources for future enhancements : · Tyler Creek bank stabilization, 2012 · Ohio Hall renovation, 2013 · Wilson Hall renovation, 2014 · Lindner Commons expansion · Golden Centennial Campaign 8 JUDSON today

ACADEMICS From new programs to academic accomplishments and faculty credentials, Judson’s standard of academic excellence has flourished since 1998.

NEW PROGRAMS • The School of Education has added certifications and academic emphases in English as a Second Language, Bilingual, Literacy, Early Childhood, Hard of Hearing.

• The Adult Professional Program has added majors in Management of Technology Systems and Management of Communications.

• The following majors have been added to our list of undergraduate degrees: Biochemistry, Christian Ministry, Environmental Studies, Exercise and Sport Science, Music Business and Entrepreneurship, Sustainability Management, and Theology.

• Graduate programs established: Master of Architecture, Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership, Master of Education in Bilingual/ESL, Master of Education in Literacy.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS • Transitioned from Judson College to Judson University in 2007 • Graduated 4,057 Bachelors and 390 Masters degrees • Successfully completed eight of nine accreditations • Introduced online learning • Established 12 academic credit-bearing certificates • Increased student participation in semester abroad programs by more than 500 percent • Increased number of semester long off-campus programs from 12 to 26.

• Enhanced and staffed Academic Support Center • Enhanced Honor’s Program • Established Institutional Research Office • Established Center for Leadership Development FACULTY GROWTH • 50 of Judson’s 70 full time faculty were hired in the past 14 years • Reduced faculty work loads from 30 semester hours to 24 semester hours • Faculty credentials improved from 49 percent holding appropriate terminal degree to 79 percent, and 40 percent holding the appropriate doctoral degree to 67 percent

Jerry Cain is a people person. He built relationships with students, staff, faculty, donors and Board members. He became a true Elginite.

He loved where he lived, and the people of Elgin loved him. I was always amazed at how he never seemed to run out of energy to make one more contact, one more phone call, one more e-mail. He lived as a called man to a high mission. And it was evident that he loved his calling.

He also had a great impact in putting Judson on the map, and in people’s minds and hearts. Working with other key leaders to establish such things as the World Leader’s Forum drew public attention to the heretofore little known God-story along the Fox River. These varied accomplishments require leadership. Dr. Jerry Cain gave that leadership with humility, and Judson is better off because of it. Relational, part of the family, innovative, missional, forward thinking — these qualities define Dr. Jerry Cain’s presidential leadership at Judson University.

— Randy Gauger '69, Trustee

Please visit judsonu.edu/JerryCain to view our special commemmorative video for Dr. Cain.

Far left photo by Robb Davidson '08 Center by Kevin Sherman '09, above by Angel Oakley '04

• Established Surbeck Summer Research Program for faculty

FINANCES Judson is committed to fiscal stewardship and responsibility. These are the steps we’ve taken to improve the institution’s financial standing in 14 years.

• Balanced operating budget 9 of 14 years • Paid off Judson’s founding debt from the 1960s • Increased operational budget from $14.73 million to $29.68 million • Raised $42,057,177 through advancement gifts • Grew endowment funds from $4.9 million to $11.2 million • Grew endowed scholarships from 50 to 138 with 16 in process

DIVERSITY As the Church at work in higher education, Judson is committed to creating a culture of equality that represents the whole body of Christ. These are the ways we have improved our diversity since 1998.

• Appointed first women to the University Cabinet and Chair of Board of Trustees • Elected first African-American as an officer of the Board of Trustees

• Appointed 11 minorities and/or internationals to faculty • Appointed nine minorities and/or internationals to management or mid-management staff positions • Elected three minorities as President of Judson Student Organization • Allotted financial aid through League of United Latin American Citizens and United Black Scholarship Committee

STUDENT DEVELOPMENT In fulfillment of our core mission to equip students as responsible persons who glorify God, we’ve made improvements to all aspects of campus life over the last 14 years.

ATHLETICS • Began 11 new sports • Made 15 appearances in NAIA National Tournaments and NCCAA National Tournaments • Two NCCAA national championships • 60 NAIA Scholar Athletes • 85 NCCAA Scholar Athletes • Launched Fellowship of Christian Athletes STUDENT LIFE • Strengthened Career Center • Opened Counseling Center • Reorganized Judson Student Organization • Launched University Ministries • Expanded mission engagement

• Enriched chapel expressions and options • Held first Judson University-sponsored formal dance

G L O B A L I M PA C T In an effort to raise Judson’s stature locally and globally, we’ve improved our ranks and welcomed world leaders.

RANKS • Moved from unranked to No. 20 of 185 in Top Tier for US News and World Report • Daily Herald Award for Best College or University 2010, 2011 • Daily Herald Award for Best Workplace 2011 • Earned Elgin Image Awards over three separate years • Launched the World Leaders Forum DIGNITARIES WELCOMED • U.S. Senators Paul Simon, Richard Durbin, Roland Burris, Roy Blunt • U.S. Representatives Randy Hultgren and Bill Foster • Former Illinois Governor Jim Edgar and Illinois Lt. Governer Pat Quinn • Former U.S. Speakers of the House Dennis Hastert and Newt Gingrich • Former U.S. President George W. Bush • Nobel Laureate and Former Soviet President Mikhail Gorbachev SUMMER 2012

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Judson Welcomes Interim President Dr. William Clark Crothers On July 1, Dr. William Clark Crothers became the Interim President for the 201213 academic year.

“We are deeply grateful to have Dr. Crothers at Judson,” said Judson Board Chair Carol Thompson '77. “He brings a lifetime of experience and wisdom, and we are confident he will make significant contributions to the university during this transition year.”

Dr. Crothers and his wife, Kevin Sherman ’09 Rilla, currently reside in Davison, Mich., where Dr. Crothers serves as the managing partner of Presidential Leadership Associates, a consulting firm focused on non-profit organizations.

“I am thrilled to partner with the people I have met at Judson— people of Christian conviction, academic quality, and commitment to service,” commented Dr. Crothers. “It is humbling to be chosen to continue the outstanding work of President Jerry Cain while the University seeks a new permanent president. With God’s guidance and the support of the Judson community, the University will continue to advance in this transition year.”

Dr. Crothers served as president of Roberts Wesleyan College in Rochester, N.Y., from 1981 until 2002. He facilitated a renaissance

at the school, more than tripling enrollment, expanding facilities, increasing recognition for academic quality, balancing the budget and seeing substantial growth in the college’s endowment. In addition, graduate level programs were introduced, including the establishment of Northeastern Seminary.

Dr. Crothers was born, raised and educated in Michigan.

He earned a B.A. degree in Business Administration at the University of Michigan-Flint College, an M.B.A. in Finance from Western Michigan University and a Ph.D. in Higher Education Administration at Michigan State University.

“I am thrilled to partner with the people I have met at Judson—people of Christian conviction, academic quality, and commitment to service.”

– Dr. William Clark Crothers, Interim President In addition to serving as President of Roberts Wesleyan College for 21 years, Dr. Crothers has held positions of leadership including Executive Director of University Planning at University of Wisconsin-Stout and Executive Vice President at Bethel College in Indiana. He also served as Interim President of Asbury University in Kentucky, and an officer on the board of Council for Christian Colleges and Universities. Dr. Crothers is a board member of the Free Methodist Foundation and Guidestream Financial. He has also served on several for-profit boards in a variety of industries.

Join us for Homecoming 2012, a weekend that holds something fun for everyone. This year’s festivities include career-improving opportunities, Homecoming Chapel with speaker John Syverson ’90, and the Alumni Banquet where Coach Steve Burke and the Men’s Soccer program will be honored along with our Alumni Award winners.

Don’t miss your chance to meet Dr. William Crothers at Pancakes with the President and voice your alumni perspective about Judson’s future.

REGISTER ONLINE judsonu.edu/alumni

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On July 2, Interim President Dr. William Crothers appointed Dr. Wilbert Friesen as the new acting provost to replace Dr. Dale Simmons, who will not return to his post following the end of his sabbatical in January 2013.

Friesen comes to Judson from Malone University in Canton, Ohio, where he served in several capacities, first as provost from July 2008 to February 2010, then interim president from March 2010 to December 2011, and finally as senior advisor to the president from January to June 2012.

Before arriving at Malone, Friesen served in a number of administrative positions at Fresno Pacific University and taught courses in the division of Biblical and Religious Studies. Born in Chilliwack, British Columbia, Friesen earned his Bachelor of Arts in psychology from Tabor College in Hillsboro, Kan. (1977); his Master of Science in psychology from the University of Kansas in Lawrence, Kan. (1980); his Master of Arts in theology and historical studies from Mennonite Brethren Biblical Seminary in Fresno, Calif. (1982); and his doctorate in religion and culture from McGill University, in Montreal (1999).

Friesen served in a variety of leadership positions in Fresno and Canton, his local church, and denomination.

He and his wife, Glenna, have two daughters: Alyssa, a graduate student in Loma Linda, Calif.; and Joelle, a recent graduate of Seattle Pacific University who is employed in Seattle, Wash.

“I am looking forward to the opportunity of joining President Crothers and the Judson community in moving the university forward,” says Friesen.

Friesen will serve as acting provost for Judson until the institution finds a permanent president, at which time the new president will hire a permanent provost.

Kevin Sherman ’09

Dr. Wilbert Friesen Assumes Role as Acting Provost

Spring Symposium Honors Past President for Establishing Architecture Program by Bethany Suckrow ‘09

Kevin Sherman ’09

Judson trustees, administrators, faculty, students, and alumni continued to serve on the Board of Trustees. He recently resigned gathered on March 16 to honor former university President Dr. from his position as a trustee beginning on March 1. He and his wife James Didier for his key role in establishing the architecture program Joan currently reside in St. Charles, Ill. in 1997. The event was held during The Architecture Department the spring architecture symposium, is celebrating 15 years since it was which explored themes related to the first established under Didier’s intersection of Christian faith and leadership. Plans for the program architecture. began in 1996 when Didier At the ceremony, Didier was granted permission to conduct a honored for 45 years of service feasibility study for a new program to the institution with a crystal in architectural studies within a plaque and Trustee Emeritus status.

Christian evangelical context. In The architecture department also one year’s time the program was formally named their annual established and grew into one of spring symposium the “James the strongest programs for the Didier Symposium On Christ and university. The program is widely Architecture” to honor Dr. James Didier with Board Chair Carol Thompson and Dr. Jerry Cain. acknowledged for its innovative his leadership. approach to architectural education Didier served as Judson President from 1992 to 1998. Prior to including a one-year preceptorship (internship) and its context of his presidency, he served as Judson’s executive vice president from an evangelical Christian institution. Environmental stewardship is 1980 to 1991. Before that he served as Judson’s Dean of Student a design philosophy that guides the program and its approach to Affairs from 1967 to 1991. After retiring as president in 1998, Didier architecture education.

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Nobel Laureate Mikhail Gorbachev Inspires Youth to Create Change

by Bethany Suckrow ‘09

“I believe in people. In the time of change that is happening everywhere and that has penetrated all countries of the world, I believe change is necessary,” said Nobel Laureate and Former Soviet President Mikhail Gorbachev to a full chapel audience at Judson University on April 21. “I believe we must make choices. We must address the social problems in the world,” he noted.

Gorbachev’s response was part of the question and answer session during his keynote address at Judson’s second annual World Leaders Forum. More than 750 guests gathered at the Elgin campus for the VIP reception and keynote in the Betty Lindner Campus Commons and the lecture in Herrick Chapel for students, staff, faculty and alumni.

The Forum, which has been established to fund Judson’s new Entrepreneurial and Business Leadership Program and the Judson

His parents were illiterate; his town had no education to offer beyond the eighth grade. Yet, Gorbachev says, he loved to study and so he worked hard to achieve honors at school in a nearby district, and later at Moscow State University where he earned a law degree in 1955.

Gorbachev highlighted the extreme risk that it took to bring about the changes that occurred in his time as Soviet Union's president.

“The Soviet Union needed to start moving toward democracy, freedom, and respecting individuals’ rights and religious beliefs.

We needed to realize that all these things were absent from us.” He explained that it was only through recognizing those key elements of a functioning government that he was able to move his country toward lasting change.

Though Gorbachev’s presidency ended more than 20 years ago and

“I believe in people. In the time of change that is happening everywhere and that has penetrated all countries of the world, I believe change is necessary.”

Student Scholarship Fund, brings recognized world leaders to Judson and the surrounding community annually. In April 2011 the university hosted former U.S. President George W. Bush as the keynote speaker for Judson’s inaugural event.

During his keynote address, titled “Peace in the 21st Century,” Gorbachev painted a very bleak picture of life in the Soviet Union when he was young, sharing memories of his early childhood when Germans occupied his village during World War II, and later, the poverty-stricken rural community under the rule of Soviet leaders.

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some students present for his address were not even born when the events he recounted took place, his experiences and insight proved surprisingly relevant, as Judson History Professor Craig Kaplowitz highlighted in his introductory speech at the main event.

“We now struggle with how to use military force to keep peace as new threats join old ones and proliferation of nuclear arms continues,” Kaplowitz explained. “And this is why we should feel privileged to hear from a man who knows from experience what it costs to pursue peace.”

WLF Photos by Robb Davidson ’08, Kevin Sherman ’09, and Adam Van Campen '14

– President Mikhail Gorbachev

2012

W RLD LEADERS FORUM

Gorbachev recalled a time when he visited the United States prior to the 2008 elections. An individual asked him what his advice might be to America at a time of such great transition.

“This is something new! Normally you are the ones to give advice,” he replied to the American, and pointed out that though no country has learned to live globally, the United States has made the continued mistake of imposing one economic model on the rest of the world.

That policy has to change and emphasize a more respectful model that suits the rest of the world, Gorbachev explained.

These thoughts echoed his earlier speech, titled, “Leadership Insights: My Time with Ronald Reagan,” at the VIP reception, where he spoke to corporate sponsors and dignitaries. There, Gorbachev reflected on his relationship with the late U.S. President Ronald Reagan as they worked to resolve tensions between their respective countries and end the Cold War. He shared first impressions of Reagan after the two met for the Geneva Summit in 1985, just after Gorbachev was elected General Secretary of the Soviet Union. Gorbachev considered Reagan “so conservative; a real dinosaur,” while Reagan’s first impressions, which soon leaked to Newsweek and subsequently the world, considered Gorbachev “a diehard Bolshevik.”

“It was just that kind of exchange of ‘pleasantries,’” Gorbachev chortled. He explained that both he and Reagan returned home from that first summit, and from the Reykjavik Summit in 1986, discouraged by the mutual lack of cooperation. Yet, Gorbachev pointed out, those first interactions paved the way for a healthier relationship between the two most influential countries in the world.

“What happened at the Reykjavik Summit and after it was not a failure, though I took it very hard when an agreement was not signed,” he explained. “It was a breakthrough that paved the way to success for the future, and it is within this framework that we eventually reached an agreement for nuclear arms reduction, a framework that we still operate from today.”

When asked what he thought about avoiding nuclear catastrophe with countries like Iran and North Korea, Gorbachev expressed hope and a positive perspective, saying that peace will only be achieved successfully through diplomatic means rather than military force. Gorbachev urged his audience to value freedom and to value and respect human dignity. He reiterated his belief that the implementation of social reforms to protect human rights brought about the most significant changes to his country.

Gorbachev took time to answer questions about his life from the audience at both the VIP reception and chapel lecture. He recalled his response to someone who asked him, “What do you want written about you in the encyclopedia?”

“I want it to say, ‘He was a good guy,’” Gorbachev said, and grinned. “I have gone through many tests and trials. I took risks that took courage. It took courage to launch reforms in the Soviet Union.

That was the work that was the most difficult and took the greatest risk.”

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In answering a final question at the main event, Gorbachev expressed appreciation for his American counterparts.

“It has taken centuries to build a country that represents all people of all races, cultures and religions around the world,” he said. “I respect the openness and directness of Americans. Given the right alternatives, you will be able to understand and do a great deal to help others. Keep up the good work; respect others, respect other nations.”

As Gorbachev stepped off the stage, Judson President Dr. Jerry Cain came forward to conclude the presentation.

“So here is your assignment,” he said to the crowd. “Go home and write in your journals, ‘I had a great day at Judson. I was up close and personal with a world leader who dared to change the world, dared to tear down a wall, dared to do away with nuclear weapons.’ And then ask yourself, ‘What can I do to change the world?’”

“I have gone through many tests and trials. I took risks that took courage. It took courage to launch reforms in the Soviet Union.That was the work that was the most difficult and took the greatest risk.”

– President Mikhail Gorbachev

Left to right from top: President Mikhail Gorbachev speaks at the VIP event; Crystal awards were given to Forum sponsors; Judson Student Margaret Bienert plays the harp for arriving VIP guests; Jack Shales with Elgin Mayor Dave Kaptain; Students and event attendees had fun posing with a cardboard Gorbachev; Student volunteers pose with trustee Kevin Noe and wife Linda; Dr. Jerry Cain chats with President Gorbachev.

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History Professor Craig Kaplowitz Reflects on World Leaders Forum History Professor Craig Kaplowitz had the unique opportunity to give the introductory speech for Mikhail Gorbachev’s address at the World Leaders Forum Lecture in Herrick Chapel. Kaplowitz’s speech provided context for a generation of students that are too young to remember Gorbachev’s presidency of the Soviet Union, or the rise and fall of Communism in Russia. Here he reflects on Gorbachev’s address and why the World Leaders Forum is so essential to Judson’s mission.

Q: How does the World Leaders Forum contribute to what goes on in the classroom and to Judson’s educational mission?

A: I teach history, which means I spend a lot of my time introducing students to the key actors and great events of our world. Normally our materials include things that have been written about these actors and records left by the actors themselves — speeches, memoirs, and the like. But at the World Leaders Forum I introduced the audience to a key figure in world history, and then he came out and addressed us himself. That is a unique opportunity

“As we train teachers and architects and business people and youth leaders... we are at the same time developing citizens and Christians who understand their world and can engage others with thinking carefully through the challenges we face.”

– Craig Kaplowitz, Professor of History for our students because it reinforces and expands upon what we do in the classroom.

For example, I can tell my students that Ronald Reagan’s memorable phrase, “Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall,” had a greater impact on American public opinion than on Soviet leaders, that it was designed more as a domestic policy instrument than a foreign policy one. But for students to hear President Gorbachev’s answer to a question about his reaction to that speech — that in the Kremlin they all knew of President Reagan’s former occupation (referring, of course, to his acting career) — makes the point personal and tangible.

Q: What can we learn from President Gorbachev’s address?

A: C.S. Lewis said that we read old books because the people who wrote them do not have the same blind spots that we do today, so we are challenged to see our blind spots and adjust our vision accordingly. Much the same is true for listening to people from different societies and cultures. If we only ever listen to Americans, even those we disagree with, we only ever hear from people who share many of our own blind spots. Bringing a mix of world leaders 16 JUDSON today

to campus allows us to hear from people who have experienced world events from different perspectives. It forces us to check our assumptions and see what merit is in the different angles.

Our thinking and acting become more precise and we are better equipped to engage with others in working on the great issues of our time. For example, for President Gorbachev to state that he believes America could use its own perestroika (“openness”) challenges us to examine our easy assumptions and ask ourselves what we look like to those peering in from the outside. That, in turn, pushes us to consider what we wish to be, what we are, and what steps might bring those two closer together. It is an invaluable opportunity.

Q: What does the World Leaders Forum mean for Judson?

A: Chicago is a world-class city with world-class institutions that bring the highest quality speakers, ideas, and events to the Midwest. With the World Leaders Forum, Judson takes its place as a contributor to this dynamic metropolitan area. At Judson we engage the major debates and issues of our day and bring those debates and issues to our campus community, to our city, and to our region.

We wrestle with the great problems and think through the great issues as we endeavor to live out our calling in the world. As we train teachers and architects and business people and youth leaders, and as we prepare students for graduate school and law school and seminary, we are at the same time developing citizens and Christians who understand their world and can engage others in thinking carefully through the challenges we face. At its core, that is the most important mission of a Christian university, and the World Leaders Forum contributes significantly to achieving that mission.

Allen Mowers '12

Imago Film Festival 2012:

A Note from Professor Terrence Wandtke From the start, the Imago Film Festival has been designed as not only a different type of film festival but also a different type of Christian film festival. In many ways, now is a good time for faithbased films in the United States. Due to the success of several studiobased and independent Christian film productions in the last decade, Christian film production and distribution groups are proliferating.

However, this doesn’t make it the best of times. Christians have become more clearly recognized as a demographic group and too often, Christian films are designed to be “safe” with an easily digestible, dogmatic message. Too many Christian film festivals have embraced and showcased these films. If Christian films preach to the choir and portray Christians as clear-cut heroes, they have a long way to go to live up to the standard set by the parables of Jesus. With this in mind, I consider a film festival like Imago more important than ever before.

Even though I’ve been directing Imago for eight years, programming a truly independent Christian film festival like ours can be daunting.

At the same time, Imago is more well-known than ever before and God’s hand is often at work to put things in place. This year, we received film submissions that live up to our mission and work like parables; they engage a messy world, pose questions, and invite discussion. Also this year, I am proud to announce that we received as many submissions from outside the United States as inside the United States, making Imago a truly international film festival.

With the help of God and some great friends, I lined up several excellent feature films at our festival with the makers of those films in attendance. We screened the film, “Heaven’s Rain,” with its writer, Brooks Douglass in attendance. During the Q&A, he explained how the basis for his first film, the murder of his parents, transformed his

life from a story of anger to one of forgiveness.

We also featured a pre-release screening of the film, “Blue Like Jazz,” based on the bestseller by Donald Miller. Director Steve Taylor was in attendance and during the Q&A, he discussed how the film challenges stereotypical notions of the Christian film in particular and Christian faith in general.

The awards ceremony event featured a career retrospective interview with Steve Taylor, examining his transition from recording artist to filmmaker (and how his faith played a role in his work as a whole). When presenting the award-winners for the eighth Annual Imago Film Festival, I was proud to announce “When Cotton Blossoms” as the jury’s choice for best-of-show. A documentary film by Scott Magie distinguished by its high production values and use of archival material, “When Cotton Blossoms” is the story of Lawrence C. Jones’ establishment of the Piney Woods school. With Jones’ faith at its center, the film represents the festival very well.

While I am director of the festival, I couldn’t do it without the help of my many volunteers. And while Judson University hosts Imago, the festival is entirely supported by donations; I couldn’t do it without the help of my many financial supporters like the Judson Student Organization. If you, like me, recognize the festival as an important way for Christians to engage culture, I invite you to please support Imago with your presence and your prayers in the coming years. For detailed information about schedule, submissions and sponsorship information, visit www. imagofilmfestival.com. For specific questions, contact Terrence Wandtke (festival director) at twandtke@judsonu.edu. Top Photos From left: Chris Firestone, director of “Last Wish”; Darren Wilson and Matt Bilen; student attendees; Steve Taylor, director of “Blue Like Jazz.”

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Faculty Accomplishments performance.

Brenda Buckley-Hughes, Ph.D., Professor of Communication Arts and Worship Arts, presented the session, "Readers Theatre – From Script to Performance," with a live performance featuring Masters of Literacy alumni at the 2012 Illinois Reading Council Conference, Springfield, Ill., March 17, 2012. She was invited to return for the 2013 IRC Conference with a Readers Theatre group for a featured Jeff Carl, Professor, Art and Design, gave a presentation on his own drawings and paintings, served as a guest critic for the senior fine art students, and juried their annual scholarship competition at North Park University, Chicago, March 6, 2012.

Joseph Cory, Assist. Professor, Art and Design, had four paintings included in “Chicago Nocturn,” an exhibition based on the metaphorical and spiritual principles of Light in contemporary art, at the I AM LOGAN SQUARE Gallery, Chicago, March 8-31, 2012. As a result of the exhibition, he participated in an interview about his work that was published online at the Chicago based art website sixtyinchesfromcenter.org.

Keith Drew, Ph.D., Professor, Education, presented a talk entitled “Exploiting Problem Potential to Meet the Common Core Standards” at the 55th Annual Conference on the Teaching of Mathematics at Eastern Illinois University, Charleston, Ill., April 17, 2012.

Michael McKeever, Ph.D., Professor, Biblical and Theological Studies, published both his first editorial comic strip, titled Mischievous Creatures, and a related essay, “Bearing Witness for Peace in a Distracted Society,” in the April 2012 issue of Messenger, a publication on religion, culture, and ethics associated with the Church of the Brethren.

Curtis Sartor, Ph.D., Dean of Art, Design and Architecture, was selected to participate on the 2012 Diversity Council of the American Institute of Architects, March 2012.

Christine Starzynski, Assoc. Professor, Education, gave a presentation titled “Innovative Ways to Meet the Needs of English Language Learners” at the Illinois Reading Council Conference, Springfield, Ill., March 15, 2012.

Kristen Stombres, Assoc. Professor, Education, was chosen to be one of the six ILEAD Conference Leaders at the Kappa Delta PI Conference, Oak Lawn, Ill., March 31, 2012. Leaders were selected from KDP counselors across the United States. Judson University was recognized for their chapter, Alpha Epsilon Chi. Stombres and Joy Towner, Assist. Professor, Education, made a presentation titled “Land of Lincoln-Land of Comprehension” at the Illinois Reading Council Conference, Springfield, Ill., March 15, 2012.

Catherine Headley, Ph.D., Assoc. Professor, Exercise and Sport Science, made a presentation titled “Trends in Aging” at the Illinois Parks and Recreation Association’s Recreation Section Meeting, Lan-Oak Park District, Lansing, Ill., March 15, 2012.

Mark Torgerson, Ph.D., Professor, Biblical and Theological Studies, authored the book, “Greening Spaces for Worship and Ministry: Congregations, Their Buildings, and Creation Care,” published by The Alban Institute, Herndon, Va. Print and digitized editions of the book were released in June 2012.

Jeffrey Henderson, Ph.D., Assoc. Professor, Science and Math, co-authored an article titled, “Lens Plasticity and Intralenticular Translocation of Crystallins” for Advances in Eye Research, Vol. 2 (W.L. Thomsen, editor), Nova Science Publishers, New York, pp. 215-221.

Terrance Wandtke, Ph.D., Professor, Communication Arts, chaired a panel on comic books and graphic novels titled “The Title Tells the Tale” at the 2012 Popular Culture Association Conference in Boston, April 11-14, 2012. He also presented a paper on that panel titled, “The ‘Retro-Futurism’ of Dean Motter’s Mister X: Crime Comics’ City of the Past and the Future.”

Sojung Hong, Ph.D., Assoc. Professor, Music, was invited by Freeport Community Concert Association to perform at a chamber music recital with three Northern Illinois University music faculty held at Mason Temple, Freeport, Ill., March 3, 2012.

Ted Hsieh, Assoc. Professor, Psychology and Sociology, presented a research paper titled, “Why Are the Poor in China not Protesting?” at the National Social Science Association, Las Vegas, April 2, 2012.

Patricia Hutton, Assist. Professor, Education, made a presentation titled “Developing Phonemic Awareness in Young Children” at the Illinois Reading Council Conference, Springfield, Ill., March 15-17, 2012.

Keelan Kaiser and David Ogoli, Ph.D., Professors, Architecture, co-authored and published a partial chapter in Academic Text: “The Designers Guide to Doing Research: Applying Knowledge to Inform Design,” Ed. Sally Augustin and Cindy Coleman, Wiley (2012).

Chapter 7 includes the 18 month Post-Occupancy Evaluation of the Harm A. Weber Academic Center Case Study, formerly published in the Architecture Centers Research Consortium Journal, 2009.

Keith Krispin, Ph.D., Professor, Christian Ministries, was a guest speaker at the Elgin-area Perspectives on the World Christian Movement and spoke on the Mandate for the Nations at Vineyard Church of Elgin, Elgin, Ill., February 7, 2012.

Eric Mason, Ph.D., Assoc. Professor, Biblical and Theological Studies, presented a paper titled “Biblical and Nonbiblical Traditions in Jude and 2 Peter: Sources, Usage, and the Question of Canon” at Loyola University Chicago, March 28, 2012. The occasion was a seminar honoring a forthcoming book he is editing with Troy W. Martin (St. Xavier University) titled, “Reading 1-2 Peter and Jude: A Resource for Students,” to be published by the Society of Biblical Literature and Brill in 2013.

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Darren Wilson, Professor, Media Studies, wears multiple hats as a Judson alum, faculty member and filmmaker. Now he is taking his latest film, “Father of Lights,” on the road for an extensive worldwide tour. Wilson produced his first documentary “Finger of God,” in 2007, followed by its sequel, “Furious Love” in 2010. “If I were to have to explain what it is about in a nutshell, I would put it like this: if ‘Finger of God’ is about God’s power, and ‘Furious Love’ is about God’s love, then ‘Father of Lights’ is about God’s heart,” he explains. The tour, which will run from July 8-September 29, will show “Father of Lights” in more than 30-40 large venues and churches across the United States and overseas. Find a tour location near you by going to FatherofLightsFilm.com/tour. You can learn more about Darren and his production company, Wanderlust Productions, which is housed on Judson’s campus in the Thompson Center, at JudsonU.edu/Wanderlust.

Professors Varghese and Rani Mathai both Awarded Prestigious Fulbright Scholar Grants Rani Mathai, Ph.D., Professor, Education, and Varghese Mathai, Ph.D., Professor, Communication Arts, were each awarded Fulbright Scholar grants for the 201213 academic year. This is a remarkable occurrence because Varghese and Rani are spouses, and though both are Fulbright awardees of the 201213 application year and grantees for the same location (Delhi, India) they will fulfill their grant terms at separate institutions and their terms differ in length. This is the first time that Judson faculty have earned this distinction while currently employed at Judson.

Equipping Students to Love God and Neighbor

by Jim Halverson, Ph.D.

“What made you want to be a history teacher?”

“Oh, I never wanted to be a history teacher,” I reply.

As both my wife and my dean would be happy to tell you, sometimes I can be difficult.

But it’s the truth. There was never a moment when I decided I wanted to spend my life teaching history. There was, however, a moment when I realized I wanted to spend my life learning history.

One night as an undergraduate, I found myself at a table at the University of Iowa library surrounded by books I had pulled off the shelves for the paper I was writing on the early Church. Like many young Christian men, I had considered the ministry—until it became clear that God was not considering me for the ministry. So, since I feared math too much to major in business, I was planning on going to law school after I graduated, until that night. I knew teaching was part of the scholarly life I had chosen, but I did not give it much thought. I stepped in front of a class for the first time in my second year of graduate school. With no training and very little supervision, my professors made it very clear that Jim Halverson, Ph.D. teaching was a way to pay the bills so I could continue my “real work” of research.

Professor of History, Here is the part where I should say that I fell in love with teaching. I certainly enjoy it.

Judson University I am, according to my peers and students, good at it. But my first love is still learning. I believe that a love for learning is the most important quality a college professor can have.

The goal of teaching ought to be infecting our students with our own love of learning.

This is especially important at a Christian university. Many Christians seem to fear the kind of knowledge pursued at universities as a threat to their spiritual health. We should not fear deep, disciplined knowledge of God’s Creation, particularly knowledge of the creatures He created in His image. Christians, after all, invented universities. Of all God’s creatures, we are the only ones who can ask why. We were intentionally created with the capacity to know and appreciate God and His creation. It is our responsibility as redeemed persons committed to knowing and loving God and our neighbors to ask why and seek answers to that question. But helping my students overcome their fear is only the first step.

At Judson, we require all students to take two semesters of world history. I open the first day of class by asking, “Why does this Christian university make you study history?”

I usually get mumbled answers about “being well-rounded,” or the cliché that those “who do not know history are doomed to repeat it.” On a good day, a student will challenge me by saying something like “I have no idea, because I will never use any of this.” To their surprise, I agree that they will probably never use any of the facts they learn in the class, because they will not remember them after the final.

As Christians, we do not study the past for its own sake, or as a means to our own ends.

History is not an instruction manual for the present. History reveals the present to us.

Besides the capacity to ask why, we alone among God’s creatures are aware that we live in time, that we have a past, a present, and a future. God has revealed Himself to us over time so that we may have faith in what He has done, hope in what He will do, and love one another as we live now in faith and hope.

I am successful as a history professor when students realize that knowledge of the past is indeed useful to them, though not as a means to their own individual ends. Learning about the past helps make sense of the world in which God has called us to live and serve.

Learning history equips us to better love our neighbors and enemies. It equips us to better praise the Creator of the past, present, and future.

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ALUMnotes

Join the Judson University Alumni Club and you will be helping your alma mater while enjoying savings exclusively for Alumni Club members! Go to www.judsonu.edu/alumni for more information. We want to know what our illustrious alumni are up to, so be sure to notify us of your latest personal and professional achievements. Alumnotes are published in each printed issue of Judson Today. Please submit news and photos for inclusion in the next issue of Judson Today by September 1, 2012. Digital photos may be submitted in JPG format and should not exceed 5MB in size. If you would like fellow alumni to be able to contact you, please submit your email address with your alumnote.

Please send your Alumnote to: Judson University Alumni Office | 1151 N. State St. | Elgin, IL 60123 Alumni@JudsonU.edu | 847.628.2083 | Fax 847.628.2094

A p r i l

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C o m m e n c e m e n t

Many graduates continued the Judson legacy begun by a parent, sibling or spouse. Photos by Mary Dulabaum.

Leah Thomas with sister Anna ’09

Brianna Berger with father Kenneth Berger ’96

Rebekah Street with mother Fran, a current trustee, and sister Katherine ’15

Margarita Santana with husband Pedro ’11

Hillary Poyner with mother Kim Edgar (Judson staff ) and sister Mallory Bayer ’09

Ben Palmer with father Richard ’85 and mother Carolyn ’84

Kathryn Waller with sister Kelly Andaloro ’02 and brother-in-law Justin Andaloro ’03

Michelle Runge with sisters Nicole ’08 and Jeanette ’10

Join us on the

Judson Cruise January 5-12, 2013 Join the next Judson Cruise in January 2013 that will “launch” us into Judson’s Golden Centennial Celebration! We will sail from Florida to the Caribbean on January 5-12, 2013 and will enjoy worship and entertainment led by Judson alumni. All are invited to join this memorable celebration on the seas!

Contact the Judson Alumni Office at 847-628-2083 or alumni@judsonu.edu to add your name to the mailing list to receive more information.

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ALUMnotes D e s i g n Al u m n u s B u i l d s B u s i n e s s N e t wo r k v i a Tw i t te r

Mary Gruben ’13

by Bethany Suckrow ‘09

Last fall, Ben Krogh and his wife, Grace, packed up their belongings and drove west.

Krogh had just graduated from Judson with a degree in Visual Communications earlier that spring, and the two decided to move to Portland, Ore., and begin a new chapter in their lives.

The move was something the couple had discussed for a long time, and they agreed it would be better to try and fail miserably than to stay in the Midwest and always wonder what might have been.

“So we sold and gave away most of what we owned and drove out to Oregon, neither one of us with jobs, friends, or family there,” he explained. Although many might see the Kroghs’ choice to uproot their lives as risky, their move was not without strategy.

“When I moved to Portland, I knew that it would be hard to find a job since I didn’t know many people. Instead of working another job on the side, I made looking for a job my full-time job,” Krogh says. Each week he would email firms and meet with people at least three times. After six weeks, more than 50 emails and 10 interviews, Krogh found a job. “I think that focusing on job hunting as my job was probably one of the best decisions I made.”

Krogh relied heavily on the hugely popular micro-blogging site Twitter to network with design professionals as he looked for employment. He joined the site as a junior at Judson to follow other designers whose work he respected and admired. Those connections led Krogh to personal meetings and eventually, a contract with a local design firm. On their drive to Portland, the Kroghs stopped to visit friends in Salt Lake City where Krogh met with an interactive art director he had been following on Twitter.

“I bought him lunch and just learned more about him, and he gave me advice on my move out,” Krogh recalls. “He gave me a few names of the firm he worked for that had a branch in Portland, and eventually I met up with them, and that interview led to my job with Upstart Labs.”

Just weeks after joining their team, Upstart Labs gave Krogh a major opportunity to lead the design work for Chirpify, a startup company that enables businesses and consumers to buy, sell, donate and exchange funds on Twitter, turning tweets into transactions.

Chirpify CEO Chris Teso came to Upstart Labs with the idea for the website, originally called “Sell Simply.” Upstart offered Teso $50K in seed funding and helped him rebrand and prepare a new business model. Under Krogh’s leadership, the start-up relaunched

in February to positive reviews from technology media sites like Mashable and TechCrunch.

“The project was challenging simply due to timelines and expectations. I’m a young designer who was put in charge of a lot,” says Krogh. “I was definitely in over my head, and it was an instance where I just needed to sink or swim. After getting over the initial shock of being thrown in the deep end, I began to trust the team, as well as the decisions I was making.”

It wasn’t long after his work with Chirpify that Krogh’s initial contract with Upstart came to an end. Another Twitter connection, Nathan Searles, led to a timely transition into a new full-time job as an interactive designer for The Brigade, another Portland firm.

“When I got to Portland we grabbed dinner. We became friends and randomly got together over the coming months to talk about what we were making and doing,” says Krogh. Searles left the agency he worked at, and became a partner at The Brigade. The firm was in need of more staff, so Searles asked Krogh to join the team.

It is clear that Krogh’s story is about more than a recent grad finding fulfilling employment, but about a successful adventure in networking online. Krogh realized a key element of networking that some graduates take years to discover. He wasn’t just connecting with other designers to fulfill his own career needs, but to make connections with people in whose work he was interested.

The Art and Design Department felt his story was a great example for current students to learn from, so they invited him back to give a lecture this past April.

“It’s so important for our students to have the opportunity to hear from a recent graduate about what is waiting for them in the ‘real world,’” says Art and Design Department Chair G.E. Colpitts.

“Careers are not about jobs or ‘the next big thing,’ but relationships with people.”

In a room full of young design students, many of whom he sat next to in studio less than a year ago, Krogh told his story of learning to network and keep his focus as he looked for a job.

“There are millions of other designers in the world,” Krogh explained to his peers. “A lot of them are better than you are. They’re more experienced than you are. You have to learn to care about other peoples’ work and not just your own. You have to network when you don’t need a job. Learning to care about what others are doing is really important.”

When Professor Colpitts asked Krogh what he valued the most from his Visual Communications degree at Judson, Krogh said that he appreciated the emphasis on developing a work ethic and learning to work hard.

“My Judson experience prepared me well for the industry. I learned how to work hard and to push my ideas further than I ever had,” says Krogh. “I learned to think critically instead of simply making things that looked pretty. I learned that talent means nothing if you aren’t willing to learn your trade and increase your skill.”

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ALUMnotes Susan (Freeman ’81) Wohl retired in October 2011 from Community Contacts, Inc., whose mission is to help people live independently through programs that assist with safe, affordable housing. Susan gave 30 years to the organization and spent more than 20 years as its director. Susan resides in St. Charles, Ill.

ALUMNI WEDDINGS & BIRTHS 1

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Chad and Nancy (Smith ’97) Binger are the proud parents of twins Camryn Sue and Carson Russell born on Nov. 17, 2011. Camryn weighed in at 6 lbs. 9 oz.

10 In June 2011, Dr. Steve Layne ’87 was elected to serve on the International and 20” long while Carson weighed 6 lbs. 14 oz. and was 20” long. Nancy is the Reading Association Board of Directors, which serves a membership of 78,000 executive director of Enrollment Services and the Binger family resides in Union, educators worldwide. Steve directs Judson’s Master of Education in Literacy Ill. program, teaches within the School of Education and created Judson’s Literacy in Motion Conference. The Layne family resides in St. Charles, Ill. Laine (‘02) and Lauren McLaughlin welcomed twins, Joel and Chloe, into the world Dec. 8, 2011. Their oldest daughter Elise, 4, loves being a big sister. Laine Huntley Brown ’88 was the featured guest pianist at Carnegie Hall in 2011 with is currently the associate dean of Students and Residence Life at Judson. the Milal World Symphony Orchestra and choir. Huntley also recently became an Artist Ambassador for Kids Alive International. The Brown family resides in Kellen Smith ’04 and his wife Jean Marie announce the arrival of their 7 lbs. 6 Aurora, Ill. oz. baby girl, Dorothy Geneva Smith on March 15, 2012. The proud first-time grandparents are Tim ’02 and Jill ’00 Smith. Kellen, Jean Marie and baby 11 James Vandenburg ’89 recently authored Making Life Better, released by Dorothy reside in Hawaii.

Publish America and available from Amazon or Barnes and Noble. James Dave ’06 and Kristen Gregory are proud new parents to Ryker Joshua born on resides in San Diego, Calif.

Nov. 21, 2011. Dave is a network engineer for IntegrationWorks. The Gregory 12 Ray Graham ’93 recently took the position of pastor of student ministries at family resides in Woodstock, Ill. Heartland Community Church in Normal, Ill. Ray met his wife Mindy (Tenney) Jennifer (Evans ’08) Clancy and her husband Bryan, welcomed a baby girl, Graham ‘92 at Judson and they now have two children, Josiah and Ashtyn. The Autumn Ireland, 6 lb. 10 oz. on March 24, 2011. After the birth of their Graham family resides in Normal, Ill. daughter, Jennifer and Bryan returned to their home town of York, Pa. to be Rev. Kevin Thomas ’93 was appointed senior pastor of the First Baptist Church with their family. Currently, Jennifer is pursuing a Pennsylvania state teaching of Canton, Ohio, on April 22, 2012. Kevin had previously served as FBC’s youth certification while working at YTI Career Institute (Lancaster, Pa.) as a Career pastor. He resides with his wife Michele ’93 and children Kaleb, Kensington and Services Specialist.

Kyle in North Canton, Ohio.

Polly Singleton ’09 and William Levatino were married on May 22, 2011 Chris Day (att. ’94-’96) released his first Christian music CD with Tate Music in Las Vegas. Polly is an implementation consultant at McKesson Provider Group based in Oklahoma City. Chris serves as the youth pastor at Bethel Technologies. The Levatino family resides in Cherry Valley, Ill. Baptist Church in Newell, Iowa.

Shelby Huyck ‘02 married Robert Cordry on Oct. 1, 2011. Alumni in the In May 2011, Matt Barnes ’95 was hired as the head men’s soccer coach at wedding party included bridesmaid Maria (Rutan ’05) Cribbett, bridesmaid Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Prescott, Ariz. Matt joins a stellar staff Samantha (Eppel ’06) Gabhart, matron of honor Amanda (Saxby ’02) Ludwig, at Embry-Riddle with Todd Poitras ’96 serving as the head women’s soccer best man Jack Clark ‘07 and groomsman James Gabhart ‘05. The wedding coach and sports information director. photographer was Amber (Weber ’00) Burger. The happy couple resides in Mt. Prospect, Ill. 13 Mike Davis ’96 started his own community Beachbody club in May 2011. Now, he works as an independent coach for Team Beachbody and is also a P90X ALUMNI NEWS & ACCOMPLISHMENTS certified trainer working towards his personal training certificate. Mike, Amy (Estes '02) and their son Mark reside in Champaign, Ill. Jim Kidwell ’69 retired after almost 40 years in law enforcement. Jim was After 28 years working for the Streamwood Police Department, Alan Popp ’96 the first Campus Safety Officer at Judson and served with wife Ellen ’70 as was chosen out of 40 candidates to be the Police Chief of Carpentersville, Ill. the first Dorm Parents in Ohio Hall. Jim was senior investigator of the Office Alan was sworn in at the March 2011 village board meeting. of Prosecuting Attorney of Franklin County (Columbus, Ohio) working in the Career Criminal Unit and attended the FBI National Academy at Quantico, Va. In November 2011, Jim Kruger ’97 became the new Police Chief in Oak Brook, with a full ride by the U.S. government. From 1982-94, Jim became a private Ill. Jim has more than 27 years in law enforcement and was chosen from a field investigator of white collar crime for businesses and government. From 1994 of 140 candidates. until Jim’s retirement in Sept. 2010, he worked for Nationwide Insurance as a Robert Arciola ’02 received the gold medal in the National Veterans Wheelchair special investigator concentrating on organized crime and repeat offenders.

Games in August 2011. About 600 veterans participated, competing in 17 Ellen works in the Payroll Department of Lifeway Christian Resources where different sports and Robert placed first in three different competitions. He also she continues to use her Master’s degree in Math. The Kidwells reside in Mount serves as president of the Vaughan chapter in Westchester of the Paralyzed Juliet outside Nashville, Tenn.

Veterans of America. Robert works at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service office Hector Cortez ’77 was named the National Chief Diversity Officer of Big and resides in Bartlett, Ill. Brothers Big Sisters of America. Hector supervises national mentoring directors The Village of Hanover Park promoted Rebekah Young ’03 to the position of in recruitment, fundraising and strategic planning in communities of color. finance director in August 2011. Rebekah is a certified public accountant and When Hector was a teen, a persistent Baptist pastor, Rev. Modesto Lopez, previously worked as senior account at the village of Hoffman Estates. Rebekah redirected him to a new life by getting him off the streets. Rev. Lopez arranged resides in Elgin, Ill. a scholarship for Hector to attend Judson and helped him through college.

Hector never forgot the lessons Rev. Lopez taught him, which led Hector to 14 Trust Company of Illinois (TCI) announced in June, 2011 that Brandy obtain a Master of Divinity degree and spend his life guiding others along Harrington ’03 was promoted from Partner to Senior Partner of the firm’s new paths. Hector and his wife Noemi have three children and reside in Wealth Management team. Brandy joined TCI in 2002. She also serves as Norristown, Pa. President of Zonta Club of Western Illinois, serves on the Board of Outreach Community Ministries Hearts of Grace and the Board of DuPage CASA. She is a Kevin Lyons ’77 was moved from the State’s Attorney’s Office to the Judges member of the Financial Planning Association and lives with her family in bench on the 10th circuit court in August 2011. Kevin had been the Peoria Glen Ellyn.

County State’s Attorney since 1988.

Rev. Joel Fairley ’77 became the Senior Pastor of the First Baptist Church of Palos Verdes in October. 2011. Joel has served churches in southern California and Arizona, taught school at Crossroads Christian School in Corona, Calif., and was an award-winning actor and director in community theater. Joel resides with his family in Palos Verdes Peninsula, Calif.

22 JUDSON today

15

Kyle Strobel ‘00 with wife Kelli and daughter Brighton have accepted a position at Grand Canyon University for the Fall 2012, teaching theology and Christian Worldview. Kyle is also releasing several new books, including Charity and Its Fruits: Living in the Light of God’s Love (Crossway, 2012) and Jonathan Edwards’s Theology: A Reinterpretation (T&T Clark, 2012).

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ALUMnotes

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In December 2011, Adam Schwelnus ’05 CPA was promoted to Manager at Kruggel, Lawton & Company CPAs in South Bend, Ind. Adam received a Master of Science in Accounting degree from Indiana University South Bend and resides in South Bend.

17

Alumni from the great state of California gathered at the home of David and Trustee Cindy Hoag on March 4, 2012. Pictured from back to front are Peter Lundberg ’81, David Hoag, Cindy Hoag, Robert Barngrover ’82, Jane Barngrover, Edith Lambert, Rhonda (Fowler) Lambert (att. ’78-’80), Jon Lambert ’79, Joel Fairley ’77, Bryan Hitch ’80, Terry (Skorik ’82) Hitch, Charity (Lambert ’86) Ali, President Jerry Cain, Bonnie Bienert, Kaylie Bienert ’16, Kailyn Quinn ’14, Carey Bienert ’14 and Greg Butler ’14. (Not pictured: Therese Charkut ’96, Jay Walden ’77)

18

What do these four people have in common? All are members of the First Baptist Church in Elgin. All are graduates of Judson. All were recipients of the Student Service Award at their respective graduations. Pictured are Sally (Ackeman ’73) Boscaljon, Terrie (Nofsinger ’69) Ferrell, Melissa (Patterson) Hoegh ’11 and Joshua Hoegh ‘09.

Chad Balk ’10 recently published his first novel, Rundor’s Apprentice which is a fantasy intended for an adolescent audience. The book is available in a kindle version on Amazon or through createspace.com. Chad and Rachel (Mead ’10) Balk reside in Elgin, Ill. Jeff Hefty ’11 was hired as the director of the Office of Employment and Grants at Rock Valley College, overseeing the operations of the Dislocated Worker Program and the Refugee and Immigrant Services. Jeff resides in Rockford, Ill.

Dr. Art Fessler ’89 was selected as the 2012 Robert Kottkamp Outstanding Dissertation Award, Learning and Teaching in Educational Leadership (LTEL) SIG 19 Award and American Educational Research Association dissertation of the year recipient. He was also invited to write a summary article of the research finding to be published in the Journal of Research on Leadership Education. Art is the Superintendent of Orland Park District 123 and resides in West Dundee, Ill.

A LU M N I G AT H E R I N G S 16

A Colorado Alumni Chapter Gathering was held on July 23, 2011 in Peyton, Colo. Pictured are Matt McHenry ’12, David Harrington ’81, Devlin Donaldson ’79, Carol Donaldson, Linda (Anderson ’79) Noe, Kevin Noe ’79, Mindy (Moodie ’95) Hirst, Jon Hirst ’98, Janis (Cowley ’77) Baney, Ken Baney (att. ’76-77) and Rick Crompton ’77.

A group of Judson alumni (eight adults and ten children) spent spring break 2012 together in Destin, Fla. The bonding, reconnecting, and memory making was treasured by all! Pictured are Skip Gianopulos, Gayle (Medina ’88) Gianopulos, Dr. Steven Guy ’88, Suzanne (Ashford ’88) Guy, Wade Harrison ’88, Hope (Wilson’87) Harrison, Mark Luithle ’87 and Betsy (Buss ’88) Luithle.

IN MEMORIAM Byron Trimble ‘74 July 11, 1932 – July 23, 2010 David Pals (att. ’67-’71) September 6, 1949 – October 23, 2011 Gail Schiefelbein ‘72 March 9, 1940 – December 4, 2011 Deborah Copelin (att. ’74-’78) March 28, 1953 – January 30, 2012 Tina (Wilson) Droscha ‘82 July 21, 1961 – January 2, 2012

SUMMER 2012

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JUDSON Athletics Men’s Basketball Three men’s basketball players, Landon Skinner, Josh Edwards, and Caleb Sutton, earned All-CCAC honors this year after winning 10 games as a team. Edwards was a first-team selection for the CCAC. This was Skinner’s fourth year on an All-CCAC team.

The team said goodbye to four seniors, two of whom, Skinner and Edwards, were four year starters and Top 10 all-time scorers.

Women’s Basketball The women’s basketball team bid farewell to seniors Shaniqua Roberts and Kim Peek.

Three players, Roberts, ShaRhonda Huff, and Emily Ragsdale, were named to the All-CCAC second team. Bethany Zulegar, Karen Senette, and Hailey Cnota were named to the CCAC All-Academic team.

Judson came in third place in the CCAC and finished with 14 wins.

The women’s team will be headed in a new direction in 2012-13 after Head Coach Jim Cook resigned his position this spring. Kristi Cirone was named the new head coach in May, and she brings NCAA Division I playing and coaching experience along with professional playing experience in the WNBA with the Connecticut Sun and Chicago Sky. Before accepting her new role at Judson she was the graduate assistant at the University of Missouri for two years.

NCCAA National Player of the Week.

Judson won its first-ever match in Florida with a 6-3 victory over Marian (Ind.) in Orlando during spring break. Academically, Westhauser earned the NCCAA ScholarAthlete award for his grade point average.

For the second year in a row, the women’s tennis team won a CCAC Tournament match with a 9-0 win over Roosevelt University and also won nine matches overall. Antigone Lowery and Alexa Schofield were honored as CCAC Players of the Week and NCCAA National Players of the Week. Lowery, Kristin Kress, Schofield, and Angela Schultz were named NCCAA scholar-athletes while Kress and Schultz were named NAIA scholar-athletes.

Golf Teams The men’s and women’s golf had strong fall finishes, with women in fourth place at the CCAC Championships and the men finished fourth place at the Clarke Invitational.

The men’s and women’s tennis teams played some of their best tennis in the history of the program. The men’s team won more than 10 matches and played in their first-ever NCCAA National Tournament. They also played for their first-ever CCAC regular season and tournament championship, but fell to Olivet Nazarene University. John Mittvick and Reilly Good both earned All-CCAC awards, a first for the program. Mittvick and Adam Westhauser also earned CCAC Players of the Week, and Mittvick, Westhauser and Good were all named 24 JUDSON today

In the spring, the men’s team finished sixth of nine teams in the final CCAC spring championship tournament as Scott Minta, Nick Amann, and Zach Gasior finished in the top 25. The women’s team finished the year fifth of seven teams at the Augustana College Invitational.

Both teams finished their final tournaments in April.

Baseball The Judson baseball team won 40 games for the second year in row, won their firstever CCAC regular season championship, and played in their first NAIA Opening Round tournament in Hutchinson, Kan. They ended the 2012 season with a 47-14 record and ranked No. 21 in the NAIA, with their highest ranking during the regular season at No. 17. They finished the CCAC regular season with a 25-4 record. For the third consecutive year the team won more than 30 games and broke the program record for CCAC wins. They went 11-0 in Florida on their spring break trip and had a 12-game winning streak overall in March.

Billy Wright, Craig Lipp, and Matt McHenry were named CCAC players of the week, and Wright was the NCCAA National Player of the Week. T.J. Swank, John Banks, and Ben Palmer earned NCCAA scholar-athlete status, and Banks was honored as an NAIA scholar-athlete.

McHenry became Judson baseball’s third NAIA All-American and also broke four all-time records for the program. He was named to the All-CCAC first-team along with Jordan Pemble and Craig Lipp.

McHenry, who graduated in May, led his team in batting average and re-wrote the career record book for hits, RBI, at-bats, doubles, and home runs. Johnny Amann, Cameron Balough, Tyler Ware, and Wright earned All-CCAC second team awards.

Baseball Head Coach Rich Benjamin was voted the CCAC “Coach of the Year” by his peers for Judson’s play.

Swank was voted to the CoSIDA Academic All-America first-team, joining

Adam Ledyard

Men’s and Women’s Tennis

by Adam Ledyard

Tony Rallo at a home game.

Softball The softball team finished with 28 wins and played in their fifth NCCAA World Series, finishing in seventh place. They started the year 8-4 in Arizona and won 11 of 13 games in April with a sweep of Bethel College (Ind.). Judson also picked up a big win on April 7 in a 2-1 victory over No. 14 Olivet Nazarene.

Sarah Boyer threw two no-hitters and broke the career and single season record for strikeouts. She finished in the NAIA Top 10 for strikeouts with over 200, and was named a CCAC and NCCAA National Player of the Week.

Bri DiGioia also earned the CCAC Player of the Week this year. Victoria Perez earned NCCAA and NAIA scholar-athlete awards.

Boyer and DiGioia were named to the All-CCAC first-team, while Sam Gladen and Concetta Lampugnano were on the second team. Boyer also earned the NCCAA Regional Player of the Year award and made the NCCAA All-American team with teammate Lampugnano. Gladen was named to the NCCAA All-Tournament team in May for her play at the World Series.

Men’s Lacrosse In the second year of their program, men’s lacrosse finished with a winning record of 7-6. In their year-end tournament in Indiana, they went 2-1 at Butler University with wins over Wabash and Northwood.

In their best matches of the year, Judson scored 48 total goals with a 22-2 win over Palmer College and 26-0 shutout over Cornell College in one day.

Josh Elmore, Jacob Ettelbrick, Jeff Lee, Landin Barin, Justin Sienick, Jacob Justen, and Lucas Mackey earned All-GRLC awards for being on the second and third teams.

After only two years on the job, Head Coach A.J. Collier was named the GRLC

Division II “Coach of the Year.”

Track and Field The men’s and women’s track and field teams improved in the program’s third year, with both teams competing at the 2012 NCCAA National Indoor and Outdoor Championships.

The women finished seventh of 17 teams in the indoor championships. Sarah Tess Tyton passes the baton to Sarah Miller at the NCCAA National Dede earned two Outdoor Track meet in Joliet, Ill. NCCAA All-American NCCAA National meet with a national awards finishing second in the triple jump championship in the high jump and second and third in the long jump at the indoor place finish in the triple jump.

NCCAA National Meet. She also qualified for the NAIA National Indoor Meet and Athletes of the Year was the CCAC Athlete of the week twice in The following students were honored for the winter. Gabby Nystrom was also named their excellence in athletics and academics NCCAA All-American at the indoor meet. at this year’s JUISY (Judson University The men finished No. 19 at the indoor Impressive Stars of the Year) Awards championships, with four athletes Banquet. competing, and No. 12 at the outdoor Tim Ciochon '13 (men’s cross country/ championships. track and field) and Tatum Teevans Dede and the distance medley relay (women’s soccer) earned the Scholar-Athlete qualified for the NAIA National Indoor awards. Ciochon, a psychology major and Meet. Kristal Pitts, Nystrom, Marilyn three-year member of the cross country McDougall, and Sarah Miller all ran the and track and field teams, holds a 3.99 relay at the meet. grade point average and is a Scholar-Athlete In the outdoor season, both teams for the NAIA and NCCAA. Teevans, an met several NCCAA national meet Elementary Education major, has a 3.9 qualifications. In the CCAC, Caleb Sutton grade point average and is a CoSIDA earned All-CCAC as he won the high jump Academic All-American. She helped her and triple jump. Both Nate Nevius and team to their first-ever CCAC regular Sutton earned CCAC Athletes of the Week season championship and NAIA National for the men’s team. For the women’s team, Tournament.

McDougall, Pitts, and Jessica Del Re were Baseball player Matt McHenry of the named women’s track and field Athletes baseball program, softball player Sarah of the Week. Sutton etched his name in Boyer, and track and field player Sarah Dede the men’s record books as Judson’s firstwere each named Athletes of the Year. ever outdoor NAIA All-American with a seventh place finish in the high jump. He also earned two All-American awards at the Adam Ledyard

men’s soccer player Corey Burke and women’s soccer players Tatum Teevans and Sarah Hoffman, who were voted as CoSIDA Academic All-Americans this year, too.

SUMMER 2012

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Newt Gingrich Holds Campaign Stop at Judson

by Bethany Suckrow ‘09

More than 600 people gathered in Herrick Chapel on March 15 for a milestone in Judson’s history. For the first time, the university hosted a U.S. presidential candidate in an election year when former U.S. Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich held a town hall meeting to address the Latino population of the greater Fox Valley area. Among those gathered were Judson students, faculty, staff, and donors, along with decorated veterans and several local political factions of Gingrich supporters and the Republican party.

Mark Vargas, an ’04 Judson alumnus and federal affairs consultant in Washington D.C., was instrumental in the effort to bring Gingrich to Judson. He spoke with gratitude for his alma mater and his country, saying he was thankful for the opportunities that Judson gave him to earn an education, and now to allow him and others in the Judson community to engage a presidential hopeful.

“Only in America can the son of a truck driver and preschool teacher earn a college education and find themselves in the presence of world leaders and presidential hopefuls,” Vargas remarked to resounding applause from a full chapel.

Followed by an introduction from Judson President Dr. Jerry Cain, Gingrich took the stage to address the crowd. Gingrich began his speech by commending the university for its faith heritage and emphasized the importance of religious freedoms in America for the benefit of institutions and organizations like Judson. The candidate addressed the high-stakes topics that drove the campaign season, such as the economy and gas prices, but he focused his address mainly around issues of social security initiatives that he claimed would

modernize the work forces and merge economic classes.

At the conclusion of his keynote address, Gingrich stepped off stage and in to the crowd Kevin Sherman ’09 to shake hands.

“It was wonderful to see community members come together with our students, faculty and staff to take part in this type of event, which we would ideally like to hold for each presidential candidate this year,” said Tory Gum following the event. “As President Cain stated in his opening welcome, Judson University is an apolitical organization that hosted this event to hear from one of the presidential hopefuls.”

In the days before and after the event, the school administration expressed that the Gingrich campaign team sought the opportunity to use the school facilities, and that Judson University was not hosting the event as an endorsement of the presidential candidate, but as an act of service to the Fox Valley community. Administrative officials have expressed their hope that this will be the first of many town hall meetings for candidates of all political persuasions to visit the campus in order to facilitate healthy discussion of current political issues.

Gingrich dropped his bid for the presidency on May 2.

Judson Achieves Bronze STAR for Sustainability This spring Judson achieved a Bronze rating from the prestigious Sustainability Tracking, Assessment and Rating System (STARS) program sponsored by the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE). In its quest to become a more sustainable campus community, Judson recently joined the STARS program, along with the Illinois Campus Sustainability Compact (an initiative for Illinois schools); and the Creation Care Discipleship Project (an initiative for CCCU schools) .

“The great thing about the STARS program is that it provides campuses with a detailed framework of criteria that helps guide them toward greater sustainability,” says Professor Leslie Kruser, who organized a group of faculty, staff, and students known as the Campus Sustainability Committee (CSC) to plan the project.

“You don’t have to think through changes yourself; the credits do the work for you.”

The many individual credits that institutions must examine and achieve in order to qualify for a rating fall under three categories: education and research; operations; and planning, administration, and engagement. The Bronze rating required a minimum of 25 points and Judson achieved 43, falling just short of the minimum 45 required for the Silver rating. Each rating

24 JUDSON today

lasts for three years, allowing institutions time to implement more changes to achieve a higher rating.

The CSC provided vital support during the planning phase of the STARS project, says Kruser. Several members, including Professors Sharon Kim, Keelan Kaiser, Christine Starzynski, Cathy Headley, Kathy Clyburn, and David Hoferer also contributed to the data collection process. Aramark Facilities Manager Len Nicosia provided support with the operational data and some of the changes implemented, while Mary Dulabaum and Kevin Sherman from the communications team managed content for the Judson website.

Kruser credits accounting senior Rachel Cassara with data gathering and reporting, and education student Donna Schelonka with compiling the results of a faculty survey on the sustainability content of Judson’s curriculum. Kruser also thanked the Student Sustainability Committee (SSC), especially President Justin Palmer, for their aid in accomplishing certain initiatives.

“All in all, the STARS project required a great deal of collaboration from the entire campus community,” says Kruser.

“The effort was rewarding not only because it led to many improvements but also because it highlighted many of the ways that Judson has already made choices, particularly in the education area, that are consistent with principles of sustainability.”

s h a p e you r life to shape th e wo r l d

ThE

wor ld AWA i t s

As a four-year Christian Liberal Arts and sciences University, Judson University prepares students to shape their world, living out their gifts, talents and passions for God’s glory. Visit Judson and discover: concentrations, plus 10 pre-professional programs.

• Real World Learning. 90% of recent graduates get real-world experience while • An ideal setting. The Judson campus, located on the banks of the Fox River, provides a close-knit community, while Chicago is only 40 minutes away.

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is Judson

Visit us for Preview Days and find out!

• Academic Excellence. Choose from more than 50 majors, minors and

still in school, through practicums, internships, and student teaching.

a good fit?

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Mom Says Son’s Journey to Judson is “A God Thing” Not long ago, Margeri Gabrielse realized she was going to have to make a decision about college. This was not a decision about whether to go to college, which college to apply to, or which one to attend. Margeri was not going to college – her son was. Her decision centered on how she was going to make that possible. You see, she had to decide whether to keep her house, or send her son Jacob, who dreamed of being an architect, to college. She very readily made the choice to give up her house and invest in Jacob’s future because, she says, it was a God thing.

As a single mom, Margeri knew she wouldn’t be able to afford college tuition on her salary. But she wanted to do this for Jacob.

So Margeri had already been praying and seeking God’s guidance that day in 2010, when she was at her softball game and ran into Kathy Ritsema, whose daughter had graduated from Judson University with a degree in architecture. Kathy very strongly suggested to Margeri that she consider Judson for her son. In fact, Kathy felt so strongly about it that the next day she called her daughter, Becky (class of ’03 and ’04), and asked if she would please call Jacob and talk to him about Judson’s architecture program. Becky agreed to do this, but before she even got the chance, she received an unexpected call from her former professor, Keelan Kaiser, Chairman of the Department of Architecture at Judson, who told her he was in town and would like to meet with her.

The incredible thing about this is that while Judson is in Illinois, the two moms who had met at the softball game were in Florida, and Becky Ritsema was in California. That’s where Keelan Kaiser happened to be when he called her. He was calling to see if his former student could meet for lunch and recommend someone for the Judson architecture program. Becky immediately knew that the

by Jean Bednar

person she should recommend was Jacob, and that somehow he was meant to go to Judson. Later, she called her mom and told her about the wonderful coincidence of her former college professor showing up right at that time, looking for a new student. Becky eventually did have a chance to call Jacob and tell him about her experience as an architecture student.

“It was difficult for me to imagine my son going off to college in Illinois, but it seemed that God wanted him there, because He seemed to be so clearly pointing Jacob in that direction,” says Margeri. “Knowing that this was God’s will enabled me to give up my house and move in with my parents in Bradenton, Fla.” It was a sacrifice, but it was also an investment – in her son.

Within the year, he was beginning his dream in Judson’s School of Architecture.

Now that he has completed his freshman year, Jacob is back home in Florida for the summer. He is sure that Judson is where the Lord wants him to be. He wants to live for Christ in all that he does, and was even impressed with the Lifestyle Statement he was required to sign as an incoming student. He recently told his mom how much he had enjoyed his nine months here – including the proximity to Chicago with its rich architectural history.

“The scholarships Jacob receives are part of God’s plan as well, since without them, Jacob would not be able to attend Judson,” says Margeri. “He receives just enough financial aid from Judson to make the tuition bills workable for us. I am truly humbled to think of all the others – total strangers – who have sacrificed portions of their resources in order to help Judson students in need.”

It’s her son they are helping right now, and she wants all those wonderful donors to know she is eternally grateful. Most of all, she has no doubt that Jacob is right where he should be, and that his journey to Judson was truly a God thing.