“Driving forces” in a Christian leader
By Dr. E. LeBron Fairbanks, MVNU President
Recently, I shared in an MVNU chapel service five driving forces within me—principles that challenge me at my best and convict me at my worst. Three questions framed my remarks:
•How can we live together in a faith community so that our relationships are redemptive and a witness to unbelievers of the reconciling work of God in Christ?
•If “in Christ, all things are made new,” then how does our relationship with Christ transform the way we lead, especially within a faith community?
•In the midst of conflicting expectations, and often seemingly irreconcilable differences placed on the Christian leader, what does it mean to lead with the mind of Christ?
By wrestling with these and other questions, I have learned (and am still learning) the following five lessons. These convictions are driving forces within me as I attempt to lead MVNU’s academic community of faith.
Driving Force No. 1:
“Watch the words.”
Principle: Words we speak can bless or “curse” people. What comes out of our mouth reflects what is in our heart. In New Testament perspective, dialog is a sacrament. Our words are to minister grace to others (Ephesians 4:29).
Driving Force No. 2:
“Don’t whine—be grateful.”
Principle: Comparison is the root of inferior feelings. We can feel good about ourselves—our gifts, talents and abilities—until we compare ourselves with others. Gratitude is the “life-giving” antidote to the negative impact of comparison.
Driving Force No. 3:
“Seek first to understand.”
Principle: Understanding, not
agreement, is the key to conflict management.
Good and godly people can have honest and intense differences. In fact, they sometimes collide over vision and values. This is why I have come to see that theological vision (what I believe about people/what I “see” in them) must precede organizational vision.
Driving Task Force No. 4: “Be proactive in extending forgiveness.”
Principle: A spirit of forgiveness transforms and empowers leaders.
Extending forgiveness does not wait for the other person to request forgiveness. Rather, it frees us from bondage to the other. Too often, we permit persons who have offended us to control us!
Extending forgiveness has everything to do with maintaining a right relationship with a holy God.
Driving Force No. 5: “Value people, not power.”
Principle: The evidence of leadership is seen in the lives of the followers.
I often ask myself: Are MVNU student, faculty and staff stronger in their faith, more confident in themselves and more fulfilled in their lives as a result of being at MVNU?
The bottom line: I try to enlarge the vision of my people about the work they are doing—to see the bigger picture and to discover how they, in their particular assignments, fit into the purpose of MVNU.
Driving forces in a Christian leader—may they drive all of us at MVNU as we seek to shape Christlike leaders for lifelong service. Amen!
Adult
Mark
Notes from Indianapolis
Mount Vernon Nazarene University faculty, staff, students and constituents enjoyed the 26th quadrennial General Assembly held in June in Indianapolis. With a busy schedule, numerous gatherings, and temperatures in the 90s, MVNU alumni, family and friends united to celebrate “Ablaze with Hope.”
•Nearly 300 people attended MVNU’s Dessert Reception on Friday, June 24, and almost 400 people attended the Alumni & Friends Luncheon on Sunday, June 26.
•More than 2,000 people visited with personnel and browsed the interactive display at MVNU’s booth in the Exhibit Hall.
•Ralph and Ruth Hodges (Hamilton, Ohio) and Glenn and Shirlee Thorne (Salem, Ohio) were presented with MVNU’s Citation of Merit award for their faithful support and dedication to the University.
•MVNU Music & Ministry teams and members of Collegians Chorale and Treble Singers performed at various venues during the week and assisted with One Heart, Many Hands projects throughout the city.
•Drs. George and Esther Jetter were assisted in their annual suitcase project by members of Collegians Chorale and Treble Singers. The Jetters had a goal of filling over 1,000 suitcases with much-needed supplies to give to General Assembly attendees from less-fortunate countries.
•Dr. Nina Gunter (Nazarene Missions International) and Dr. J.K. Warrick (pastor at College Church of the Nazarene in Olathe, Kan.) were elected as general superintendents, replacing Dr. Jim Bond and Dr. Talmadge Johnson.
•More than 30,000 Nazarenes contributed over $40 million to the local Indianapolis economy during General Assembly— the city’s largest convention of the year.
School of Education and Professional Studies
Nothing less than success
By Dr. Rhoda Sommers, Associate Professor of Education
Many children come to school cognitively, emotionally, physically, and socially unready to learn. Children of recent immigrants have the added burden of a language barrier. In order to best prepare teacher candidates, MVNU’s teacher education program includes courses and experiences related to literacy instruction and crosscultural experiences. In addition, all education majors have two field experiences in diverse, urban settings and participate in other cross-cultural service learning opportunities.
For Sarah Ruby (Dursch ’03 - pictured left), these experiences not only prepared her for teaching success, they also helped her discover her passion for urban middle schoolers. Ruby teaches Language Arts and Social Studies for sixth, seventh and eighth graders at Scuola Vita Nuova, a K-8 public charter school, in downtown Kansas City, Mo. The majority of students are immigrants and classified as ELL. Approximately 50 percent of the students are Hispanic, 20 percent African-American, 20 percent Caucasian and 10 percent Asian.
Sculoa Vita Nuova’s curriculum and instruction focus is balanced literacy, though students also take music, art, physical education, dance, Spanish and piano. They also take electives such as cooking, tae kwon doe, newspaper, sewing and photography. This spring, the middle school produced the musical Annie, for which students sewed the costumes, built the sets and did all the public relations work, including commercials on a local radio station.
Experiencing success is crucial for these students because their lives are filled with so many things that inhibit success. Sarah said, “I see them break boards in tae kwon doe and sing solos in Annie and think about how huge that is. I know how their parents talk to them and what they’re dealing with at home and on the streets. They can come here and be successful. I know they’ll remember moments like this for the rest of their lives.”
Being a teacher is about investing in students and allowing them to see who they can become. Sarah noted, “Students have difficulty seeing past Independence Avenue where the school is located. We try to help them want more for themselves. Field trips and job shadowing show them that there is a world outside where they live. We talk about college and what kinds of careers they want. I think the best chance we can give them is to tell them that they’re smart, unique and special. We have to say that repeatedly because they hear so many negative things about themselves.”
Corbet, Wilson and Williams1 describe teachers like Sarah—“Great urban teachers share a common belief: It’s their job to make sure that all students achieve.” These are teachers who refuse to accept failure; they maintain the belief that all students are capable of learning and they work tirelessly to achieve this. This requires an immense commitment, deep compassion and carefully developed competence to be such a teacher.
Because of the increasing need for specific training in teaching ELL, MVNU anticipates adding a license in Teaching English as a Second Language. This program will not only be valuable for candidates who plan to live and teach in the United States, but will also open international teaching opportunities.
1.Corbet, D., Wilson, B., & Williams, B. (2005). No choice but success, Educational Leadership, 62 (6), 8-12.
Blazing a fashion trail
By Dr. Candace Fox, Professor of Family and Consumer Sciences
According to Mindy (Brown ’01) Shmidt’s parents, the following Ralph Waldo Emerson quote sums up her life: “Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.” Even as a child, she set new fashion trends that others often followed.
Shmidt blazed new trails at MVNU through her work in the Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) department and through her decision to attend The Ohio State University to earn a graduate degree in textiles and clothing. Instrumental in orchestrating the first FCS class fashion show at MVNU that employed male and female models, purchased clothing, lights and sound, Shmidt wanted to branch out onto an individualized design path. Prior to her senior year, she completed an independent study project designing and creating 20 garments, complete with sketches. Naturally, another fashion show held in Thorne Performance Hall followed as the culmination of that work.
It was not surprising to hear about Shmidt creating yet another fashion show as part of her graduate studies. This time though, the show had a greater purpose. She and another graduate
Mindy Shmidt
student researched body image, marketing and fashion design for girls ages 8 to 14. Their research findings were used by 35 undergraduate designers to inspire and create clothing for the show. A major goal was to create clothing for these “’tweens” that would promote a healthy body image while encouraging individual style. From focus group comments, it was apparent that the young girls did not like the fashions currently available to them in stores.
Some of the 44 young models involved in the show were from the Grove City and Newark Churches of the Nazarene. They definitely looked happy to be modeling these modest and attractive outfits in this exciting fashion show narrated by Shmidt. Once again she blazed a new trail, hoping that others will be inspired to follow her path.
Shmidt received her master’s degree from OSU in June 2005. She has accepted a job as a design coordinator for Abercrombie and Fitch at their home office in New Albany. MVNU looks forward to watching Shmidt leave new trails for others to follow.
Social work: Outreach ministry to “the least of these”
Graduation in 1996 with a social work degree brought excitement to Stuart Metzler as he anticipated launching his professional career. He did not know then that God would eventually lead him in August 2003 to Washington, D.C., and the Community of Hope to use his knowledge and skills with individuals often shunned and stigmatized by society— people who are HIV-positive or who have AIDS.
The Community of Hope, a Nazarene Compassionate Ministry, provides a comprehensive primary health clinic as one of its many community services to people with low incomes. One of Metzler’s responsibilities as a community outreach worker includes locating individuals who are either HIV-positive or who have AIDS—especially those who may be reluctant to receive assistance from a faith-based organization—and linking them with testing and medical assistance. He explained, “The goal at Community of Hope is to show compassion and to meet people’s needs regardless of their behavior or lifestyle.”
Partnering with organizations serving high-risk populations, such as HIPS (Help Individual Prostitutes Survive), Metzler’s work led him to meet these “sex workers,” and through other contacts, he began working with IV drug users and the transgendered. “At Community of Hope, I have learned that
By Karen Boyd, Associate Professor of Social Work
I must meet people where their need is,” said Metzler. “My job is to reach out whenever I can, without judgment, but with love, like Christ.” He added, “Individuals with HIV or AIDS need a ‘medical home,’ where they can feel comfortable without fear of being stigmatized, so my goal is to create a safe place for them to stay to receive medical assistance. I also try to find answers to their questions.”
Metzler admitted that his experiences in this urban setting have been eye-opening, and have required much personal reflection and discussions with Community of Hope’s spiritual director. He has learned to adjust his behavior and attitudes in order to better serve this population. For example, Metzler learned that sex workers have difficulty meeting during regular office hours; therefore, “I have an open-door policy, so they can come to the health clinic when it’s convenient for them, and I will work with the health staff to arrange medical services.”
He said that he feels the church needs to be where the needs are, and one of its challenges is being determined to meet those needs. He added, “When people with HIV/AIDS hang out at the Community of Hope because they do not feel singled out, then I know we are treating people with compassion and love.” One of the beliefs of the social work profession is to meet people where they are, and Stuart Metzler is a beautiful example of that principle.
School
of Theology and Philosophy
Touching the future through children's ministry
By Dr. Jane Kennard, Associate Professor of Religion
“I knew it was a call bigger than myself,” affirmed Desiree Caluza (’02pictured right), remembering the decision to accept a position as children’s ministry director at Newstart Community Church, a Nazarene church plant, in Powell, Ohio. “God has led me here and I have never doubted my call to this church.”
Caluza’s assertion of a divine call to a children’s ministry in a particular place rings with authenticity, especially when one considers the path leading to where she is today. Now in her fourth year at Newstart, “Dez” anticipates a move to full-time ministry this September. Since fall of 2001, she has worked full-time at the Riverside Child Care Center in Columbus in addition to 25+ hours a week at Newstart.
As a freshman in 1997, Caluza left her California home not knowing what major to pursue. Her fondness for children prompted her to enroll in the early childhood education degree program. However, during her junior year, doors seemed to close for a teaching career. “I went through a big transition that year [and] switched majors,” she recalled.
“Through many prayers of my family, friends and professors, I knew God was leading me into full-time ministry. I guess you can say that I got the best of both worlds—working in fulltime ministry focusing primarily on kids and their families.”
The children attending this suburban congregation walk in with portable CD players, handheld digital games and cell phones. Advancing technology and its influence is just one of the ministry challenges facing Caluza. “We’re in the beginning stages of changing our structure to fit the kids’ world as we share, teach and experience God’s Word together.” Sharing the vision of Pathfinders, the current children’s ministry, must be done intentionally and consistently. “Building and
retaining a team to serve is another challenge,” she stated. “Our goal is that the congregation knows it is our responsibility to grow these kids in the Lord.” Many of the children come from families for whom Newstart is their initial church involvement.
Sharing this vision and supporting Caluza in her ministry efforts is Senior Pastor Greg McNichols (’92). Since embarking on this adventure in 2001, the ministry has flourished through pastoral leadership. After just three years in a leased building located in a strip mall, the congregation, with assistance from the North Central Ohio District, purchased the entire strip mall. Ownership has allowed them to renovate the building into a more adequate space for worship, with a nursery, classrooms and storage areas. Imagine this during your first years of ministry! Nonetheless, Caluza and others, including Shelli Ledford (’85), Beth Bucher (‘85), Beth Rickman and Jason Pullins, have been energized by these challenging and exciting transitions. Undoubtedly, Caluza spoke for them all when she said, “It’s hard to explain in words how strong God’s affirmation was for me to join the team at Newstart and stick around for the long haul.”
Caluza’s years at MVNU played a significant part in her life. “I feel that MVNU prepared me for ministry on the educational side, but most important, MVNU helped prepare my heart,” she explained. “The overwhelming support of the professors and staff definitely shaped me into who I am today. Their prayers and encouragement during my years at college continue to play a huge role in my leadership at Newstart.”
The spiritual changes to which Caluza gives witness in her own life resonate with researcher George Barna’s forthright pronouncement that the spiritual development of children must be “the single most strategic ministry in God’s kingdom.”1 No doubt about it, her passion and commitment have put her in a strategic position to serve on the front lines in this critical arena of ministry.
1.Barna, G. Transforming Children into Spiritual Champions, Ventura, CA: 2003, Regal Books.
Shaping the future of the church
By Bruce Oldham, Associate Professor of Christian Education
In April, seven pastors of large local churches came to MVNU, hosted by Church Relations, to meet with School of Theology and Philosophy faculty and University administrators and staff. Their visit was designed for the University to learn more about them—their ministry, their churches and their views on Christian higher education. The next day, 20 pastors and staff members of urban and multicultural congregations also met with Theology and Philosophy faculty to address how MVNU students can be best prepared to minister in their contexts. These two days were loaded with perspective and passion for the future of the church!
MVNU’s School of Theology and Philosophy has always believed in a strong connection to the field. Classes for nontraditional students and pastors without a college degree for completion of ordination requirements were established in the early days—now the Certificate of Ministry Preparation program that meets at sites throughout the region. In the 1970s, faculty worked with Dr. Tom Nees to bring a Januaryterm class to the Community of Hope in Washington, D.C. The Ministry in its Social Context course, now led by Joe Noonen, is still going strong.
Students are engaged in ministry field experiences and internships throughout their academic program, spending hundreds of hours in contact with the challenges of ministry, and guest speakers with practical insights frequent classrooms. New majors such as intercultural studies involve students in diverse ministry experiences. Students also benefit from participation in Church Leadership continuing education seminars held on campus for pastors and lay leaders. Faculty members supplement their teaching with their own
involvement and practical experiences in local churches.
For students to embrace a philosophy of ministry that is both relevant and visionary for the future in the church, academic leaders must continue to look ahead in partnership with pastors and practitioners as new forms emerge. With that in mind, Dr. C. Jeanne Serrão, School Dean, has established a “Practics Task Force” for 2005-06, which will evaluate programs and teaching methods for relevance in the church of today and tomorrow. Its findings will help shape the School’s work in the coming years.
The balance of theory and practice is challenging. Students must have a foundation in biblical and theological traditions, and have practical coursework in ministry leadership with theological and philosophical “handles” in ministry beyond the “how to’s” that may change frequently. Students who are not only familiar with contemporary methods but understand the principles can create their own models in the future. MVNU alumni with both a “heart” and a “head” for ministry innovation will take the church to new levels!
Continuing Education Events
The Church Leadership Continuing Education program at MVNU offers an excellent series of seminars and workshops during 2005-06 for pastors, staff and lay leaders. Unless otherwise noted, events are held at MVNU. For information, visit www.mvnu.edu/churchrelations or call 1-877-640-7400.
LEAP Seminars:
Leadership That Works Oct. 18, 2005
Leith Anderson
The Un-churched Next Door Nov. 15, 2005
Thom Rainer
Building Strong Marriages in the Church Feb. 23, 2006
Donald Harvey
Designing Worship March 28, 2006
Kim Miller
Ministry Training Workshops:
Kidology Children’s Ministry Workshop Sept. 16-17, 2005 (at Grove City Nazarene)
SkillQuest Youth Ministry Workshop Oct. 8, 2005
Tony Jones
Church Finance Workshop Jan. 20-21, 2006
Various speakers
Youth Ministries Leadership Workshop May 2, 2006
Duffy Robbins
Two months later… 2005 graduates work in graphic design
By Jan Hendrickx, Assistant Professor of Graphic Design
On May 21, MVNU seniors Chad Cherry and Courtney Hartman participated in commencement ceremonies with members of the class of 2005. Both are communication majors who studied graphic design as well. Two months later, they are working in the graphic design field: Chad as a designer in the art department at Nazarene Publishing House in Kansas City, Mo., and Courtney as a graphic design consultant at Intimate Life Ministries, a training and resource ministry for churches, ministries and Christian leaders, in Austin, Texas. Chad and Courtney previously served as summer interns for these organizations.
After settling into his apartment in downtown Kansas City, Chad arrived on the job June 6 and immediately set to work designing some last-minute posters for use at General Assembly, the quadrennial convention of the International Church of the Nazarene, held at the end of June. In July, Chad worked on youth curriculum, a book cover and advertisement design.
After her family helped her move to Austin, Courtney began her job by redesigning the logo for Intimate Life Ministries. She explained, “Currently the company is redesigning their image. In addition to the company logo, I’m redesigning their Web pages. I am also responsible for designing book covers, book layouts and all company brochures and literature.”
The best aspect of starting a new career as a designer? “You now get paid for what you did for nothing in school,” Chad
said with a smile. Courtney loves what she does. “The easiest thing about working is being able to do what I love all day. I truly love the work I do and my company,” she commented.
Courtney added, “The hardest thing about working in the ‘real world’ is adjusting to the longer days. The day doesn’t end at a certain hour; I work until the job is done.” For Chad, the most difficult aspect has been the move to Kansas City, away from his home in Columbus, Ohio. “I didn’t know anyone and have had to make new friends and meet new people,” said Chad.
Chad appreciates the MVNU graphic design classes because they helped him prepare for what he does now, as did selfmotivation and the motivation of others to do the best work possible while in school. In Chad’s experience, “the harder you work in school the better job you’ll get when you graduate.”
For Courtney, the critique process integral to graphic design courses was an important part of her education. “It is extremely important to learn how to not be offended when the CEO and the partners are judging your work. It is a great motivator to hear their ideas and then make a final presentation that is pleasing to them,” she said.
Chad works with approximately 20 staff members in NPH’s art department. He said that while design is an important part of what he does, “probably 50 percent [of the job] is interacting with people—effectively communicating thoughts and explaining why a design will or won’t work.”
He added, “As a designer I have to be up-to-date with the latest trends [while] continuing to set new ones. It’s constant work. Graphic design is more than just creativity and art— it’s marketing and communication as well.”
Chad Cherry
Courtney Hartman
ArtFest: an event with a purpose Background in English
prepares Marsh for law career
By Dr. Barbara M. Ragan, Associate Professor of English
What good is a degree in English? Jeanne Marsh’s (’03) degree in integrated language arts education has been a good match for her studies at the University of Akron Law School. Literature classes taught her to take a text, break it down and interpret it, and education courses helped her develop communication and learning skills.
But academics play a secondary role to Marsh’s main focus—serving God by working with people in need. Participation in service projects in high school and at MVNU developed her zeal for God’s work. Marsh’s heart was particularly stirred by the problems of the inner city. “God prompted me to spend my life as a tool to bring about justice and reconciliation,” she commented. “MVNU’s focus on missions [gave] me a love for what Jesus loves, and now my heart is with impoverished people in the America’s inner cities.”
As Marsh completed her degree at MVNU, she raised money to participate in a crucial “mission year” in inner city Chicago—learning about others and herself, and learning to give without receiving. There, Marsh befriended a child named Jackie, and helped her overcome a little girl’s fears of neighborhood gangs, thereby freeing her to just be a kid.
During this mission year, one of Marsh’s neighbors in Chicago suggested she become a lawyer; she followed up by discussing it with God, friends and relatives. Soon she was certain God’s map for her life pointed to law school.
Accepted at both Loyola and Akron, Marsh chose to attend the University of Akron, spending the 2004-05 academic
year working on her law degree. The work is difficult and the time commitment is overwhelming. During the first year, professors use the Socratic method of teaching, requiring a student to answer questions about a case. Students selected must navigate through the entire case.
Currently, Marsh is interning at Cabrini Green Legal Aid Clinic in Chicago (www.cgla.net), where she works with the housing attorney. “Our goal is to provide legal service to the poorest of the poor, focusing on reconciliation,” she said. “It is wonderful to be out in the field working with individuals who need help.”
As she studies and works, Marsh views herself as a follower of Jesus, working in His fields. Her metaphor for her life is “awaiting the harvest.” She added, “The Lord is the Lord of the harvest. He will finish what He started.” After graduation, Marsh plans to return to Chicago and work to empower the poor and oppressed in the inner city.
By Lori Wilkes, Gallery Curator
Mark your calendars for the first annual MVNU ArtFest show and sale on Nov. 19. Sponsored by the MVNU Art Gallery, ArtFest will bring together the best of arts and crafts in the area, showcasing textiles, ceramics, sculpture, jewelry and more. The purpose of this event is to celebrate our local art and culture, and to increase MVNU’s community involvement in the arts.
A portion of the proceeds will be given to Food For The Hungry, a charitable campaign that helps the needy of Knox County. This event is positive in many ways—exposing and offering art to the community, and sharing with those in need.
ArtFest will be held in the beautiful new Prince Student Union on campus from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Come join us as we celebrate the arts in our community!
Jeanne Marsh stands outside the Cabrini Green Legal Aid Clinic in Chicago.
“For the Lord is our judge, the Lord is our lawgiver, the Lord is our king: it is he who will save us.” — Isaiah 33:22
In preparation for the Constitutional Law portion of this fall’s Business Law I course, I found myself baffled by what needs to be presented to this year’s students. I have the luxury of sharing with them an amazing document that has shaped much more than the way business is conducted in this nation and around the globe.
I am excited because this coverage will allow them to potentially rediscover the unique creation of our nation and the republic form of government that its founders established—a government by law and not man. Diligence is needed in helping them discern the biblical principles embedded in this Constitution and contemplate the cherished freedoms that are expressed therein.
This coverage will also enhance their chances to revisit an America which began with a wonderful Christian heritage in the early years, dominated by a love and respect for God. During this era it is well documented that 123 of the first 126 colleges established in this nation were Christian. When each state adopted its own constitution, every one of the fifty states included a reference to God, or to divine guidance.
Unfortunately, I struggle with the detrimental side of Constitutional law. I will need to share with students some insight related to why the America which is experienced today is vastly different from the one our founding fathers envisioned. They will need to know that the Constitution is not studied at the majority of today’s law schools as a document that can stand alone. Instead, it is studied only through the eyes of Supreme Court cases involving its interpretation. Some practicing attorneys have even admitted that they’ve never read the Constitution, since actually
reading it was not a requirement in law school. Yet, the U.S. Constitution is labeled as the “supreme law of the nation.”
The founders divided governmental authority related to the roles of judicial, administrative and executive duties into separate institutions under the rule of law—not in the hands of men. They obviously feared tyranny of any kind and realized that with the sinfulness of man, a society cannot thrive when ruled by men. Yet, we have encountered a judicial climate that is dominated by men and women who sit on courtroom benches, creating legislation that has been transforming this nation’s core traditional values.
During the 20th century, rarely did the U.S. Supreme Court decide cases from a viewpoint of “strict constructionist,” where a justice discerns the meaning of the Constitution in its text, structure and history. Instead, the Supreme Court aggressively approached most cases involving religion and moral values with a broad view of Constitutional meaning. During the last 50 years, the Court discovered a so-called “separation of church and state” and an implied “right to privacy” protecting a woman’s right to abortion. This activism has continued to this day, making it unpredictable how the high court will judge each case. This was clearly seen this summer when the Court ruled on the display of the Ten Commandments in two separate cases.
I have concluded that it is best to “salt” this presentation with the words of James McHenry—one of the signers of the U.S. Constitution—who summarized, “The Holy Scriptures…can only secure to society, order and peace, and to our courts of justice and constitutions of government, purity, stability and usefulness. In vain, without the Bible, we increase penal laws and draw entrenchments [protections] around our institutions.”
Education and adventure in Belize
By Crystal Bidwell, Senior
In June, MVNU students enjoyed an exciting opportunity when they traveled to Belize for International Business Operations, a joint class at the University of Belize taught by MVNU’s Dean of the School of Business, Dr. Tomas Parks. Beyond the studies, the students discovered a vibrant culture, sandy island beaches, giant Mayan temples and lush jungles.
A Christian response to poverty: thinking outside the collection box
(Adapted from an article to be published in the Journal of Biblical Integration in Business.)
By Dr. David L. Skinner, Professor of Business
One way to alleviate poverty is through contributions to churches. A recent study reported that 83 percent of Americans donate to non-profits, but only 6 percent give the equivalent of a tithe.1 “The church has failed to provide a compelling vision for how the money will make a difference in the world.” That provides an opening for Christian businesspersons to market their churches better. Christians who find that their churches do not serve the poor should campaign for changes.
American giving greatly exceeds that of any other developed country.2 The poor contribute a higher percentage of their income than do the middle class, despite the fact that few can itemize deductions. Christians could campaign to make contributions tax credits instead of deductions.
Belize is located between Mexico, Guatemala and the Caribbean Sea in Central America. As a developing country, Belize presents students with a new perspective on the business world and offers many unique experiences. It is the only Englishspeaking country in all of Central or South America, and MVNU has a long history of involvement there.
During the trip, students were able to interact with Belizean students, many working adults, taking the course. This enhanced the learning experience, especially in the area of cultural sensitivity. “For an aspiring professional, it is a great developmental experience that helps in understanding cross-cultural issues and allows students to gain business and cultural perspectives beyond the usual,” said Parks. While there, the students worked in groups with their Belizean counterparts on their final projects and came to know and understand them in a way that transcends textbook knowledge.
In addition to their studies, the students toured the U.S. Embassy Commercial Section for insights on conducting business in Belize and throughout the Caribbean. They also visited Belizean businesses such as “Marie Sharps,” a major exporter of pepper sauce. Travel to the rain forest afforded a guided tour and a firsthand look at the ecotourism industry. A visit to the Mayan ruins helped students better understand the Mayan culture that dominated the area for centuries. An afternoon excursion to Guatemala and a snorkeling expedition to the Barrier Reef Islands provided an opportunity to examine the world’s largest living reef. Guides were on hand to explain its history and the challenges faced by the Belizeans trying to preserve, as well as capitalize upon, this natural wonder.
The Belize experience is one that students simply cannot gain within the walls of a classroom. MVNU seeks to provide opportunities for students to explore their world while discovering how they may shape its future. This class is open for enrollment each summer to MVNU students.
The Bible says that the fortunate should aid the poor, but it doesn’t indicate that we are to give to those who have less but are not in need. So then—who are the poor? The Bible refers to “widows and orphans” who are unable to provide for themselves. Today, about three-quarters of “poor” Americans have TVs and air conditioning.
We define poverty in terms of income, but economics tells us that is an inaccurate gauge. College students are “poor” in terms of income, but the student parking lot outside my window suggests a middleclass lifestyle. A better measure is consumption. A truly poor person is unable to obtain an adequate diet, suitable clothing or medical care.
Protectionists note that a deluge of imports followed trade deregulation. However, production has grown at more than three percent annually, productivity is the best in decades, and unemployment has been low. No other major country matches that.3 Meanwhile, cheap imports force domestic firms to become more efficient and lower our cost of living, making it easier for the poor to live well.
Recall the secular parable of the fish and fishing. Giving money to the poor is like giving a starving person a fish. Entrepreneurs could start businesses where the poor live to provide employment. That would teach them to fish. They might provide consultation so the poor can create their own businesses. That would give them fishing tackle AND teach them to fish. Helping the poor to find work or create their own businesses alleviates poverty while providing an opening to witness.
These examples of how Christians might alleviate poverty are not exhaustive, and there is no claim that they are the best available. The intent is to provoke you to think “outside the [collection] box” of handouts to the poor.
The MVNU Business School provides students with the technical expertise to become the Christian businesspeople of the future in a setting that promotes Christian living and stewardship.
1.Americans donate billions to charity, but giving to churches has declined. Barna Group, Ltd. April 2005.
2.Brooks, A.C. Why museums trump churches. Wall Street Journal. April 15, 2005, A10.
3.Fisher, R.W. Protect us from protectionists. Wall Street Journal. May 25, 2005, A14.
The future of nursing at MVNU
By Dr. Karen Doenges, Assistant Vice President for Academic Administration
The shortage of nurses in our country has reached crisis proportions. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a need for 794,000 newly licensed nurses by 2008, a 22 percent increase above the average growth of all other occupations. Nationwide, nursing schools are turning away an estimated 15,944 qualified applicants to baccalaureate nursing programs each year (American Association of Colleges of Nursing, 2004). In central Ohio last year, 1,000 qualified nursing student applicants were turned away due to a shortage of nursing faculty.
MVNU has had a program in pre-nursing since the 1990s. Students attend for two years, obtain credits in liberal arts core classes and beginning nursing courses, then transfer to another institution to complete their degree. An articulation agreement with Capital University has offered students an almost seamless transition into their School of Nursing in Columbus, Ohio, should they opt to attend.
Due to the growing shortage of nurses, extensive requests by prospective students and their families, as well as the community, and the excellent fit with the mission of MVNU—a task force was appointed in spring 2004 to investigate the possibility of starting a baccalaureate program in nursing. With the help of Dr. Teresa Wood, a consultant from Capital University, a proposal to start a baccalaureate nursing degree program was presented to the board of trustees and the faculty in spring 2005. Both enthusiastically endorsed the proposal.
Dr. Randie Timpe, vice president for Academic Affairs, recently announced the appointment of Dr. Teresa Wood (pictured above) as director of Nursing. She received her master’s in nursing from Wright State University and her Ph.D. in nursing from The Ohio State University. She has extensive experience as a nurse educator,
including Capital University, OSU and Ohio University. Wood’s honors include, butare not limited to, a Pre-Doctoral Fellowship from the National Institutes of Health, a Doctoral Student Leadership Award from OSU and selection as a Faculty Fellow at Capital University.
Wood has presented numerous times in her areas of expertise and has authored or co-authored publications in the areas of nicotine and tobacco research and nursing education. She has written grants that were funded to research smoking cessation and nicotine dependence. She has served on numerous university committees and has been highly involved in program assessment/ evaluation and indirect measures of student learning.
In 2005-2006, Wood will work closely with the Ohio Board of Nursing in designing the curriculum for MVNU’s baccalaureate program in nursing. Her strong clinical background, record of teaching excellence, demonstrated academic leadership and procurement of grant funding, as well as her leadership in the Nazarene church, make her an excellent candidate for MVNU’s first director of Nursing. She has a passion for preparing students from a distinctively Christian perspective.
MVNU is excited to have someone of Dr. Wood’s caliber and experience to spearhead this new venture into baccalaureate nursing.
By Merel Pickenpaugh, Professor of Criminal Justice
Laurie (Rison) Wells (pictured right) graduated from MVNU in 1992 with a double major in psychology and sociology. After graduation, she began working for the Licking County Common Pleas Court in Newark, Ohio, on a full-time basis. Employed as an adult probation officer, she conducted various investigations for the court and supervised a caseload of chemically dependent offenders. She also held Literacy Group for female offenders.
In 1993, Laurie married J. Kevin Wells, a detective for the Newark Police Department. They have two children, Hannah (9) and Jordan (7), and are in the process of adopting a child from China. The family attends Newark Church of the Nazarene.
In 2001, Wells became a bailiff for the Common Pleas Court magistrate and started attending Capital Law School. She graduated with her Juris Doctor in May 2005. She has worked for the Common Pleas Court as a mediator and is now employed there as a staff attorney, researching and writing. She gives credit to her relationship with Christ for enabling her to balance law school, work, marriage and child rearing. Without His strength she would not be able to do it all.
Shaping students through mentoring Shaping the world through justice
On a university campus, there are great opportunities to impact the lives of students. Academia concentrates primarily on the development of the academic life of a student. While this is important, focusing on the whole person is a more effective way of creating an impact.
Over the past 18 years, Dr. Paul Madtes, Biology department chair, has been shaping students’ lives through mentoring, a model Jesus used. Jesus invested Himself in the lives of His disciples for three years, building a foundation through which the Holy Spirit could continue to work as they grew in their personal relationships with God. Madtes focuses on developing the whole person—academic, spiritual, character and life skills.
Below are just a few testimonials from individuals who have participated in Dr. Madtes’ mentoring group.
Paul truly changed my life forever. Even eight years later I am still utilizing the lessons I learned and have even had the opportunity to share some of them.
My experience in the group was just as important—probably more important—to who I’ve become and what I’ve learned during my four years of college than all the academic training I received.
MVNU had a major impact on preparing Wells not only for a career, but also for a life of purpose. Her course of study provided an educational foundation for her current work, and the spiritual activities, friendships and campus atmosphere instilled in her the character traits instrumental in her success in the criminal justice system. She recognizes the value and the importance of her MVNU education and thanks God for that experience.
Laurie is shaping her world by exhibiting high moral standards that are biblically based in a system that is not always conducive to a Christian perspective. Her entire career has been in the criminal justice system and as she continues as an attorney, she has purposed to serve with an emphasis on making a Christian impact.
Participation in the mentoring group was one of the greatest contributors to my spiritual development and growth. Surely I am just one of many to receive eternal benefits from this ministry that has spanned two decades.
Paul is not only a man of the Word, he is also a man of his word. He is a great man, a great mentor, and has what a man of God should have ... Jesus!
Investing in the lives of others is costly—even sacrificial on occasion. Giving of oneself takes time. However, a student who becomes what God intended is worth the sacrifice. Mentoring is an investment in the future, the very life of a student. When the mentoring model is applied in the academic arena, students are enabled to fulfill the complete plan of God for their lives. This approach fosters a lifestyle that reminds students daily that God works through each aspect of their lives. No part is to be lived without regard for the other.
Madtes helps new student Monica Duffield register for classes.
Adult and Graduate Studies
in adult higher ed Forecasting trends
By Dr. Randall Wells, Vice President for Adult and Graduate Studies
It seems a cliché to say that where we’re headed in the future depends, in part, on where we’ve been in the past. Adult and Graduate Studies began 12 years ago on MVNU’s main campus with one program; since then, it has grown to five degreecompletion programs on six campuses. We are scheduling the launching of two more degree-completion programs next spring, with three more in various stages of development. All are focused on the adult learner in a non-traditional format. While we don’t have a crystal ball to determine what kinds of programs to develop and offer, we do pay attention to trends among our student population. For instance, here are some statistics (“The Condition of Education 2002,” from the National Center for Education Statistics, 2002) about non-traditional learners:
•They are over 22 years old (the average undergraduate is 26).
•They are financially independent from their parents (51 percent).
•They attend school part time (48 percent).
•They delayed their enrollment after high school (46 percent).
•They work full-time while enrolled (39 percent).
•They have dependents of their own (27 percent).
What’s particularly interesting about these statistics is that 73 percent of undergraduates, enrolled in either two- or four-year colleges, fall into one or more of those categories—so, in a sense, most undergraduate students are non-traditional.
More importantly, student profiles are trending toward “non-traditional,” and away from “traditional” where a student enrolls in a four-year undergraduate residency program at a college or university immediately upon graduating from high school. In other words, the percentage of non-traditional learners is growing.
Our task at AGS is one of anticipating the educational needs of this growing population, and developing programs that meet those needs while, at the same time, instilling the mission and values of Mount Vernon Nazarene University.
NighttakingZero: the plunge
Going back to school as an adult can be a little like jumping into a cold swimming pool on a hot day—while the experience quickly turns into an enjoyable one, that first plunge can be quite a shock.
To help new students ease into the waters again, MVNU Adult and Graduate Studies (AGS) developed Night Zero. This event— part of most AGS programs—is the starting point for each new group, or cohort, of students. Since different cohorts attend class on different nights at various campuses, each cohort participates in its own Night Zero.
Jim Parks, AGS director of Recruitment, describes Night Zero as the “beginning of the journey” for students. It is here that students first meet their cohort—the group of students who will journey with them through the entire program.
“A favorite aspect of Night Zero is when students introduce themselves to others,” said Brent Stark, Polaris site coordinator. “This allows the group to bond by sharing motivations for attending school, their family and career backgrounds, and other items of interest.” Students are also introduced to the AGS staff and an AGS chaplain who explains the chaplaincy services available to them.
By Ryan Long, Curriculum Specialist
While Night Zero is designed to be fun and relaxing, it is also a time when critical paperwork is finished and important details are covered. Staff and students talk about AGS policies, procedures and expectations, and the handbook is reviewed in depth. Students receive their books for the first class at Night Zero as well.
Instead of handing out orientation material and rushing through it on the first night of class, Night Zeros are typically held one week prior to the students’ first night. “This allows for the orientation material to be covered at a comfortable pace conducive for new students starting a new program,” said Stark.
And of course, what special event would be complete without food? Students are treated to a catered dinner during the course of the evening. Often this tradition continues throughout the program, with many groups organizing potlucks or ordering pizza during their class break each week.
Returning to school can be a big jump for many adult students; however, knowing that others are in the same “pool” and that MVNU’s caring faculty and staff are there to help can turn the shocking plunge into a refreshing experience.
Bright future for a growing AGS
By David Baker, Curriculum Specialist
In examining the bright future of Mount Vernon Nazarene University, one must notice Adult and Graduate Studies (AGS). As education expands to meet the needs of non-traditional students, AGS continues to adapt.
The Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) adult degreecompletion program was first offered in 1993 with 22 students. In 1995, the program expanded to the Columbus market at Polaris. As enrollment increased, campuses were established in Newark, Lima and Gahanna. New programs were added, including an associate degree; graduate degrees in education, ministry and management; and certificate programs in education and ministry.
Since then, AGS has experienced massive growth, highlighted by last year’s enrollment of over 1,200 students. Specifically, AGS witnessed a 55 percent increase in graduate enrollment, with an overall increase of 15 percent. The need for even greater geographical expansion was realized and, in response, a new campus in Cincinnati opened early this year.
But that is just the beginning. “It is interesting to follow what studies are indicating in terms of adult learners,” observed Dr. Randall Wells, vice president for Adult and Graduate Studies. “We are developing a growth plan that both addresses the non-traditional student and stays true to the mission of the University.”
Scheduled to launch in spring 2006 are degree completion programs in Bachelor of Business Information Systems and Bachelor of Organizational Leadership. Also planned are Master of Arts in Education with Intervention Specialist License and an associate degree for Instructional Aides.
Further on the horizon are bachelor’s degrees in criminal justice, health care administration and education administration; master’s degrees in business administration, social work and ministry; and doctoral degrees in business administration, education and ministry.
Geographic expansions are being considered as well. AGS is also exploring partnerships with area community colleges to offer classes on their campuses. The first of these is with North Central State College in Shelby, Ohio. A BBA cohort is scheduled to start there this fall. In addition, AGS is in the process of forming relationships with Marion Technical College, and Owens Community College and others. AGS is also looking at opening new campuses in the Cincinnati area as well as other possible areas in Ohio.
“We’re keeping a close eye on demographic shifts so that AGS can be prepared to move into geographic areas that represent higher market demand,” said Melanie Bolender, executive director for Adult and Graduate Studies Services.
In this same way, current campuses may be altered to better serve their communities. For example, the Polaris campus may slowly shift over the coming years to meet the needs of graduate students.
Though growth takes a paramount effort, there is no shortage of innovative ideas allowing MVNU and Adult and Graduate Studies to extend their reach across Ohio. In noting how far the University has come since 1993, it is equally exciting to ponder its bright future.
After a 26-year absence, the Mount Vernon Nazarene University Athletic Department has announced that it will once again field men’s and women’s cross country teams at the varsity level beginning in the 2006-2007 school year.
MVNU Athletic Director Scott Flemming recently announced that former Cougar student-athlete Chip Wilson (’04 - pictured above) has been hired as the head coach for the new program. Wilson, a four-year member of the MVNU men’s basketball team from 2000-2004, currently teaches seventh-grade social studies in the Highland School District and will be entering his second year as the cross country coach at Highland High School this fall. Last season, he guided the Highland boys’ cross country team to a conference title, and two members of the girls’ cross country team qualified for the state meet. In high school, Wilson was an All-District performer in cross country and basketball at River Valley High School in Marion, Ohio.
“I am excited about the opportunity to come back and work at MVNU,” said Wilson, who will immediately begin recruiting student-athletes and coordinating the schedule for the 2006-2007 season. “It was a dream of mine to return and work here someday, but I never thought that it would happen so quickly.”
“It is exciting to have the opportunity to start the program from the ground level,” Wilson added. “My goal for the
initial team is to lay a strong foundation of hard work that will enable us to have success as the program continues to grow.”
“I really feel fortunate to have Chip join our coaching staff,” said Flemming. “He has experience both as a cross country athlete and a coach. More important, Chip represents everything our institution stands for. He will bring the right balance of working hard to be competitive while being a spiritual mentor for our athletes.”
Wilson and his wife, Katie (Jess ’04), reside in Fredericktown, Ohio.
“Starting the cross country program again will be an investment that will benefit our athletic program and our University,” said Flemming. “There are several reasons why we are bringing in cross country at this time. We have consistently heard inquiries over the past few years from prospective and current students. Having these teams will definitely be a boost to the University’s enrollment goals.”
“Cross country is a well-established sport in our conference—this program will enhance our athletic department by giving us more offerings and opportunities for student-athletes who are seeking to attend a Christian university,” Flemming concluded.
MVNU, with an enrollment of over 2,400 students, is a dual member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) and the National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA). The Cougars compete in the American Mideast Conference.
Cougars use basketball to present the Gospel in Jamaica
By Dave Parsons, Sports Information Director
While most college basketball players were enjoying the beginning of their summer vacation, the Mount Vernon Nazarene University men’s basketball team spent ten days on a team missions trip to Jamaica in June.
MVNU Head Coach Scott Flemming; Assistant Coach Josh Gast; and current Cougar players Andrew Thompson, Alan Bock, Nick Zarley, Chris VanSchepen, Josh Haumschild, Mark Hess, Ryan Seesholtz, Steve Mayes, Jaren Coldren, Bryan Wyant, Josh Smith, and Ben Falkenberg made up the team. They were joined by former MVNU alumnus and current Wooster Church of the Nazarene senior pastor, Nathan Ward (’79), who served as the chaplain for the trip. Brian Gliem, who attends the Wooster church, also went along as the cook for the trip.
The team played four games on outdoor courts during the trip and posted a 3-1 record with wins over the Jamaican Junior National Team, the Montego Bay Club Team and the Savanah Hawks Club Team. The only defeat on the trip came in overtime at the hands of the unbeaten Jamaican Senior National Team. In that game, MVNU rallied from a 16-point deficit to tie the game as Zarley hit a 3-pointer at the end of regulation and the team missed a shot at the buzzer that would have given the Cougars the win.
However, the trip was about much more than basketball. At halftime of each of the team’s games, one of the MVNU players would share their faith and a short Christian Gospel message. The team also conducted four clinics for kids—two at orphanage schools, one at a public school and one in a city neighborhood. These clinics consisted of basketball fundamentals and skill contests, with prizes that included shirts, jerseys, shorts and shoes. At each clinic, Flemming and one of the players would again share the Gospel.
The team also participated in a church service in Mandeville, Jamaica, where Flemming led the music and worship time, and Ward preached. In addition, the team had Bible studies, sharing times and daily prayer throughout the trip.
“This was an unbelievable experience for everyone who was able to participate on this mission trip,” said Flemming. “I know all of us left there with a love for the people of Jamaica. As with many trips like this, we were faced with seeing people who had virtually nothing materially and yet they had a joy for living.”
“Although we were able to minister to multiple groups of people, I am just as excited about what this trip did personally for my players,” Flemming added. “We certainly grew closer as a team and the spiritual impact on each of the players was invaluable. God used us for His purpose—and I am sure this experience will have lasting value for our program and our campus in the years to come.”
Members of the MVNU Men’s Basketball Team
A time of testimony.
Alumni shape the future through “new start” churches
By Tom West, Director of Alumni Relations and University Fund
Every new church is a miracle in the making. MVNU alumni are shaping the future by reaching the lost in their communities through “new start” churches. Growing communities with spiritual needs requires that God’s people answer the call to serve. In the eight Nazarene districts of the East Central Region, MVNU has almost 20 alumni who are part of a new start church; the Central Ohio district is just one example.
Rob McCorkle (’86) started the ripple effect in 1997 when he felt God calling him to leave Grove City Church to plant a new start church in Columbus. It was then that the Crossroads Community Church began. McCorkle’s church attendance grew to 180 in just a few years. Similarly, Kevin Meyers (’96) joined the Grove City staff in June 1999 after attending seminary. Nine months later, he planted the Hilliard Community Church and its attendance averaged 120 in just two years. Most recently, the Central Ohio district has seen unbelievable numerical growth and has planted two additional new starts.
When Brad (’92) and Melissa (Sexton ’93) Kochis began praying and planning for a new Nazarene church in the northwest part of Columbus, Wes Humble, lead pastor at Newark First Church, contacted Brad about an opportunity in the Dublin area. In starting this church, everything would change—facilities and audiences, as well as approaches and processes for evangelism. In less than a year, the newly planted Lifepointe Church averages over 125 in Sunday morning worship. Brad reported that over 35 percent of his launch team was un-churched, nearly 20 percent were “dechurched”—they grew up in church but stopped attending at some point—and only 45 percent is transfer growth.
Perhaps one of the most touching stories came unexpectedly when Shannon, the superintendent of construction from the McKnight Development Group, began attending on “InviteA-Friend Day.” Unbeknownst to Brad, Shannon and his family had been de-churched; in a recent GROW magazine article, Shannon said, “I am thankful for this church. It’s been one of the best things to happen to me in the last several years.”
At Lifepointe, the people are committed to sharing God’s love in practical ways, like distributing water bottles along an area parade route near Dublin. Plus, they have aided the Bellows Avenue Church by passing out popsicles to inner-city kids in the Lower Lights district during summer outreach events.
1970s
Norma Ickes (’76), secretary to MVNU’s first president, Dr. Stephen Nease, passed away June 12, 2005. The funeral service was held at Lakeholm Nazarene Church in Mount Vernon. Memorial contributions can be made to MVNU’s Music Scholarship Fund through Dr. Stan Wood, (740) 392-6868, ext. 3000.
Denise (Lannoy ’78) Thrift lost her husband, David (54), after a long battle with cancer, on June 1, 2005. Denise graduated from MVNU with a BA in elementary education and has been teaching kindergarten for 23 years, most recently at Elmwood Elementary in Mount Vernon. Denise is a member at the Trinity Assembly of God Church in Mount Vernon.
1980s
Theresa Craig (’81) married Carl Louis Wilhelmy on Oct. 9, 2005. Theresa teaches at-risk preschool for the Boone County Public Schools. Carl is a maintenance technician. The couple resides in northern Kentucky.
Keith Harris (’88) received a Master of Business Administration from Indiana Wesleyan University in April 2005. He is an information systems manager at Licking Memorial Hospital in Newark, Ohio, and resides in Mount Vernon with his wife Jill (Wilson ’89) and their three children: Zach (13), Luke (10) and Sydney (7).
Dawn Albright-Steele (’89) lives in Dublin, Ohio, with her husband of 10 years, Steve. Dawn graduated from The Ohio State University in June 2004 with a master’s degree in social work and is a successful clinician at Directions for Youth and Families. Dawn and Steve attend Heritage Christian Church in Westerville, Ohio.
Chris Easton (’05)
Brad Kochis at Lifepointe Church in Dublin, OH.
Another example arose when Chris Easton (’05), who had been interning at Newark First Church with Wes Humble, expressed a passion for compassionate ministry. Shortly after the death of the Newark Eastside Church’s pastor, Chris and his wife Melanie (Budd ’05) were installed as pastor and wife to lead this new compassionate ministry center in Newark, Ohio. This summer, Eastside members reached out to a large apartment complex one block from the church. By delivering over 50 care packages to the residents, they began building new contacts in their community. Now, this church— led by two young MVNU alumni committed to serving—has been given a chance to thrive again with a new vision and new passion for the needs of the community.
Grove City’s former senior pastor, Dr. Bob Huffaker, added, “It is exciting to be a part of what God is doing. I encourage any church to get involved in ‘new starts’ because God blesses the church that reaches out to others.” All of these stories demonstrate MVNU alumni living out the vision of their alma mater—“Shaping Christlike leaders for lifelong service.”
Congratulations to the following newly elected Executive Alumni Council members:
President-Elect:
Dr. Ronald Bolender (’77), Mount Vernon, Ohio
Vice President-Elect: Walt Baughman (’74 and ’76), Vermillion, Ohio
Alumni Lay Representative to the Board of Trustees: Col. Scott Gray (’77), Bellbrook, Ohio
Visit www.mvnu.edu/alumni to view a complete list of executive counsel members and at-large members.
1990s
Jay Woodcook (’90) and his wife Mickey recently moved to Chesapeake, Va. They have two children, Keaton (6) and Lakelyn (2). Jay is a computer programmer/ analyst for B.C. Harris Publishing, Inc., a publisher of university directories, and Mickey stays at home with the children while remote-managing the family’s coffee shop/cyber café located in New York. They are active in the Tidewater Central Nazarene Church.
Amy Lynn (Foss ’91) Criger and her husband, Mark, welcomed Benjamin Joseph into the world on Sept. 18, 2003. Born during Hurricane Isabel, he weighed 6 lbs., 5 oz., and was 18.5 inches long. They reside in Lansdale, Penn.
Dave and Kristi (VandeKemp ’91) Lehman still reside in Troy, Ohio. Kristi teaches a first- and second-
grade loop in the Troy City Schools and Dave is employed at Hobart Brothers. They have four daughters: Kayla (13), Kassie (9), Karlie (6), and Kami (18 months).
On June 11, 2005, Cynthia Ferguson (’93) married Joseph W. West at their home church, Tri-County Church of the Nazarene in Thornville, Ohio.
Other MVNU graduates in the wedding party included Kimberly Pitzer (’93), Mary Ohler (’94) and Charlene Miller (’93). Cynthia is a fourth-grade teacher at Fairfield Christian Academy in Lancaster, and Joseph works at Latorre Construction in Columbus. They reside in Glenford.
Christiana (Capo ’94) Yant lives in North Canton, Ohio, with her husband and their three children, Benjamin (7), Evan (6) and Grace (1). She is the Children’s Ministry director at Greentown Church of the Nazarene and a stay-at-home mom.
Karen (Theis ’95) Swan and her husband Dan, along with son Devon, moved to Marion, Ind., where Dan
Fall Network Luncheon Schedule
MVNU network lunches are a great time for alumni and friends to come together. You’ll meet up with old friends and make some new ones as well. Visit with Tom West, Alumni Relations and University Fund director, and hear the latest news and updates from around campus. This event is free for first-timers, then $5 thereafter.
To R.S.V.P., or for more information, please e-mail alumni@mvnu.edu or call 1-800-367-9294 (select the “Alumni” option).
Oct. 4 Findlay
Oct. 5 Youngstown
Oct. 6 Cincinnati
Oct. 10-14 Washington, D.C. (Senior Adult Event)
Oct. 17 Mansfield
Oct. 18 Marion
Oct. 20 Newark
Nov. 4-6 Nashville, Tenn. (during Trevecca Nazarene University Homecoming)
Nov. 15-18 Chicago, Ill.
has been named senior pastor of Marion First Church of the Nazarene. Their first Sunday there was May 22, 2005.
Robb (’95) and Kalyn (Church ’95) Vogelmann reside in West Chester, Ohio, with their two children, Claire (3) and Robby (2). Robb is the assistant principal at Lakota East High School and Kalyn is a stay-athome mom and the MOPS coordinator at Springdale Church of the Nazarene where they attend.
Suzanne (Brown ’96) Barnhart graduated from the Medical College of Ohio with her MD. She has joined the OB/GYN residency program at Indiana University. She and her husband Erin (’96), a personal finance planner, along with their daughter Gracie (1), live in Avon, Ind.
Rebecca Bott (’96) married Brian Postlewait in March 2001. She graduated in 2000 from Nazarene Theological Seminary with a Master of Divinity degree and currently assists her husband who is the lead
pastor of Kansas City Trinity Church of the Nazarene. Rebecca is pursuing clinical pastoral education (chaplaincy training) and hopes to begin fall 2005. The Postlewaits have one daughter, Madelyn Grace (2).
Debbie (Nezrick ’96) Merkel is currently a senior beauty consultant with Mary Kay Cosmetics and a mother of four: Alaina (7), Alivia (5), Alieya (3) and Ethan (1). She resides in Mansfield, Ohio, with her husband Erik who is in sales with Sprint.
Stephen Starr (’96) and his wife Jenny announce the arrival of Luke Samuel on March 9, 2005, in Charleston, W.Va. He weighed 9 lbs., 3 oz., and was 21 inches long. Stephen is a supervisor with Arnett & Foster CPAs, PLLC in Charleston where he is an auditor/consultant in the healthcare department.
Missionary alumni share experiences with MVNU students
By Tom West, Director of Alumni Relations and University Fund
MVNU’s goal for the June 2005 Benin mission trip, led by Joe Noonen (’81) and Kendra Lambert (’93), was to expose MVNU students to West African culture through service.
Alumni Dr. Matt (’94) and Sonya (Richardson ’94) Price provided a way for students to hear the stories of West Africans and to tell others what they saw, heard and felt. The MVNU group was only the fifth Work & Witness team to journey to francophone West Africa.
Matt described the current conditions of the land:
“Child slavery is an issue since Benin lies in the middle of the most heavily traveled land route in West Africa, connecting Liberia to the west with Nigeria to the east. Economic development is hindered mostly by low-level corruption and squandered foreign investments. Other issues are the effects of war or threatened war and political upheaval in Cote d’Ivoire and Togo—two nearby francophone countries in West Africa.”
Matt and Sonya are shaping their world through service— the ideal they modeled for students on the trip—“I want to shape the world by serving it as Christ would. It’s
MVNU regrets to announce that Roger Cupp (’97) passed away unexpectedly on May 21, 2005, at the age of 42. He was a nurse at Heinzerling Foundation in Columbus, Ohio, and is survived by his parents, Robert and Ruth, and sister Elaine, and other extended family. He was greatly loved by those who were fortunate to know him at MVNU, and he will be deeply missed.
Tara (Randall ’97) Hensel and her husband, Brian, announce the birth of their second daughter, Emma Faith, on April 12, 2005. She weighed 6 lbs., 8 oz, and was 19 inches long. She joins big sister Brianna Grace (2). Tara is a stay-at-home mom; the family resides in Nevada, Ohio.
Pamela Carr (’98) and Christopher Quigley were married March 22, 2003. Chris’s son, CJ (6), was the best man. On Sept. 8, 2004, daughter Jocelyn joined the family, weighing 9 lbs, 8 oz., and measuring 21.25 inches long. The family resides in Mattydale, N.Y.
Ken Hartman (’98 AGS) was recently promoted to controller at Strang Communications Company, a Florida publisher of Christian books and magazines. He began working for Strang in 1999.
Chad (’98) and Susan (Magers ’99) Wilson announce the birth of their son Andrew Arlyne on Dec. 30, 2004. Andrew joins big brother Elijah Hayden (2). The Wilsons reside in Anna, Ohio, where Chad is the senior pastor at Sidney Church of the Nazarene.
Nate (’99) and Jennifer (Updike ’99) Myers celebrated the birth of their daughter, Sofia Isabel, in June 2004. Jennifer finished her MS in higher education at the University of Kentucky in 2004, and is taking a break from her student affairs career to be a stay-at-home mom. Nate completed his Ph.D. in education at U.K. in the spring of 2005, and was recently named assistant professor of Educational Foundations at Ashland University in Ohio. The Myers reside in Ashland and attend St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church.
tiring and frustrating to serve. It’s not convenient. Most of the time, it’s not fun. The rest of the time, it’s an amazing adventure I wouldn’t trade for anything else. There are not many tangible rewards and very little recognition. Since our deployment as missionaries [France and Benin], we have spent the majority of our time as the only English-speaking Nazarenes within a 300-mile radius. When people interact with us, we are their only concept of what it means to be Christian.”
The Prices believe that their time at MVNU led them to who and where they are today. “I learned to bring worlds together while at Mount Vernon. I loved to spend my weekends in the inner cities on Mandate trips. I loved working with the guys at Mohican. Four years in Mount Vernon convinced me to ‘go into all the world,’ especially the world beyond the one in which I lived,” Matt commented. “MVNU gave me the opportunities to make the leap into new and different places. There I tried to do my part even though I possess no important titles or impressive talents. In fact, I still don’t—people here are just amazed when I can construct a logical sentence in a language not my own.”
When asked about the MVNU team’s activities in Benin, Matt explained, “Team members gave away t-shirts, pens, toys and smiles, but they also gave away their lives.
James (’99) and Kelly (Fig ’99) Smith announce the birth of their daughter, Halle Ruth, on June 20, 2005. She weighed 5 lbs., 13 oz., and was 19 inches long. James is a fulltime youth pastor and also serves as the Northwest Ohio District Youth President. Kelly works primarily out of their home as an accountant for Ohio Northern University. The couple resides in Findlay, Ohio.
2000s
Nick Hershberger (’00) married Ashlie Hollingsworth on May 21, 2005, at Walnut Creek Mennonite Church. Nick is a systems analyst at Ontario Systems in Berlin, Ohio, and Ashlie is a registered nurse working at Akron Children’s Hospital. They reside in Winesburg, Ohio.
Sarah Lybarger (’00) married Jeffrey Murdock on April 16, 2005, in Orlando, Fla. Sarah taught language
arts at Orangewood Christian Middle School for three years. Jeffrey is a sales manager for Documentum Software. They reside in Oviedo, Fla.
Scott Morrison (’00) and wife Rebecca announce the birth of their daughter, Olivia Leigh, on May 26, 2005. She weighed 8 lbs., 9 oz., is their first daughter, and first grandchild on both sides of the family. Scott teaches fourth-grade special-needs students in Mt. Gilead, Ohio, and Rebecca is now a stay-athome mom as well as a councilwoman for the town of Edison. They are both involved in drama and children’s ministries at their church.
Debbie (Dumbroff ’00) Young and her husband Danny announce the birth of their second son, Brock Daniel. Born on May 8, 2005, he weighed 6 lbs., 8 oz., and was 18.75 inches long. He joins big brother Bradley (2).
Westerners usually drive by local Africans with their windows rolled up. The poverty and living conditions can turn the strongest of stomachs upside-down. The MVNU team, however, interacted with men, women and children where they lived. They did not drop money into African hands and run, as many organizations do. They spent time with Africans—playing games and talking with common words and hand signs. It was a testimony more powerful than words. Africans value solidarity. They want to believe they are part of a bigger family. Now Nazarene pastors and leaders in Benin know they are part of an international church that reaches beyond borders.”
MVNU believes in providing such powerful life-shaping opportunities to its students. Alumni like Matt and Sonya are now passing on their MVNU experience to help make this possible.
Homecoming 2005
November 10-12, 2005
Join MVNU alumni and friends for a weekend-long Homecoming celebration—a wonderful time of fellowship, food and fun! Watch your mail for a detailed schedule or visit www.mvnu.edu/homecoming. This listing is just a sample of the weekend’s events!
Cougar Basketball
Mike (’01) and Holly (Sparks ’01) Cunningham recently moved to Anthem, Ariz., where Mike serves as youth pastor for the fifth- and sixthgrade ministry with Scottsdale Bible Church. In July, they traveled to Pico Escondido Young Life Camp in order to get this new camp up and running for the children of the Dominican Republic. They appreciated everyone’s financial and prayer support.
Patricia Geiser (’01) graduated from the University of Akron with a master’s degree in social work. She currently works at the Christian Children’s Home of Ohio in Wooster, Ohio, as a foster care caseworker.
Jeromy Lewis (’01) married Traci Sanderson on June 21, 2003. He graduated from Medical College of Ohio on June 3, 2005, with a medical degree. He will be performing his residency in emergency medicine at St. Vincent’s Mercy Medical Center. Jeromy and Traci now reside in Oregon, Ohio.
The men’s and women’s basketball teams will take on Houghton Friday night. The men’s team will battle Roberts Wesleyan Saturday afternoon.
Class Reunions
The classes of ’70, ’75, ’80, ’85, ’90, ’95, ’00 and ’05 will gather for individual breakfasts while catching up on all the latest news from classmates.
Adult and Graduate Studies Homecoming Seminar
For the first time, AGS (formerly Excell) will hold a ten-year reunion for BBA Cohort Groups 1-2 and a five-year reunion for groups 39-47 and 49-53. This event will include a luncheon, seminar, and valuable networking opportunities for BBA graduates.
ARTalum Exhibit and Silent Auction
The ARTalum society will hold their third annual exhibit and silent auction to raise funds for an endowed scholarship for art students.
Fall Play
MVNU students will entertain Homecoming attendees at their annual fall play, with performances on Saturday afternoon and evening. Fun for the whole family!
Music Department Concert
The Music Department presents its annual Homecoming Concert. Alumni are encouraged to participate!
Josh (’02) and Kelly (Mitchell ’02) Colley welcomed their first child, Madison Alyssa, on Feb. 14, 2005. She weighed 6 lbs., 13 oz. The Colleys reside in Mount Vernon, Ohio.
Andrea Emblen (’02) moved to North Carolina in 2002 to teach geometry at A.L. Brown High School in Kannapolis. On June 12, 2004, she married Adam Harkey of Mt. Pleasant, N.C., who works for the neighboring county schools as a computer LAN engineer. The couple resides in Concord, N.C.
Jamey Fawcett (’02) married Christy LaLone (attended MVNU from 19982000, graduated from Mid-America in 2002) on June 26, 2004. They moved to Kansas City so Jamey could attend Nazarene Theological Seminary; however, in the fall of 2004, his National Guard unit was deployed to Iraq.
Dan Reidl (’02) graduated in June from Arcadia University's (Glenside, Penn.) physician assistant program with a Master of Medical Science degree. He passed his national boards in July and is now employed as a physician assistant at the Houston Orthopedic Surgery & Sports Medicine Clinic, located in Warner Robins, Ga.
Cassie Dillon (’03) married Michael Self on Dec. 11, 2004, in Virginia Beach, Va. They now reside in Jacksonville, N.C., where Michael is stationed with the U.S. Marine Corps. Cassie is employed as a corporate trainer for Sona MedSpa and Michael is finishing his first tour of duty in Iraq. He will begin his second tour in February 2006.
Luke Westerman (’04) married Alisha Anstine (’04) on July 24, 2005. Luke has been promoted to a senior financial advisor with JP Morgan Chase Investments. Alisha is a personal banker with Bank One in Gahanna, Ohio. The couple resides in Columbus.
( ) have a photo available online.
To view these photos, visit www.mvnu.edu/alumni/ grapevine/grapevine.html
Please feel free to submit photos of weddings, babies, etc. to Mount Vernon NOW, 800 Martinsburg Rd., Mount Vernon, OH 43050, or by e-mail to alumni@mvnu.edu, or online at www.mvnu.edu/alumni/grapevine/ grapevine.html.
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Shaping the future… honoring the past
By Austin Swallow, Executive Director for Development
Rev. Russell Long, Sr., was an encourager. He had the heart of a shepherd, was highly respected by his peers and deeply loved by those he ministered to across his 50year pastoral career.
Following his return from World War II, Long became a Christian through the ministry of the Nazarene church is Massillon, Ohio. He felt a call to full-time ministry and so, at the age of 30, departed for Eastern Nazarene College, to study and prepare.
Upon graduation in 1952, Rev. Long returned to the eastern Ohio area and had several successful pastorates. He invested himself in his parishioners, especially his young people, and encouraged many of them to follow the Lord’s calling into lives of ministry as he had done. Often, his smile, words of encouragement or hugs were the very thing that won over a sinner’s heart.
After retirement from full-time ministry, Long joined the staff of Canton First Church and served there until his passing in 2002. His final weeks, spent in the hospital, were a time of joyous celebration with family and friends.
Through their tears, they welcomed over 400 visitors. It was so busy the nurses had to put up directional signs to Pastor Long’s room!
As you could imagine, with so many visitors, there were lots of stories. Two in particular are revealing. One visitor had to ask permission from his judge to be released from house arrest to visit his friend, “the one who shared Jesus with me.” A young man from Venezuela came to give a prayer card to Pastor Long, explaining in broken English how this card, given to him by his own father, was meant to encourage the one who kept him on the “straight path” during his early days here in the U.S.
Yes, Russ Long’s life affected many people. His family wanted that influence to be felt by young people preparing for ministry here at MVNU. In his memory, they created the Russell Long Ministerial Endowed Scholarship. The first recipient will be notified this fall and will hear anew Timothy’s instructions to “do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15).
Several people have created endowments at MVNU in honor and memory of family or friends. If you are interested in shaping the future of MVNU by honoring the past, please contact Austin Swallow at 1-800-367-9294 (Development option).
This senior adult Fall Historical Tour features:
• Tour and dinner at George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate
• Two days exploring Washington, D.C.
• Tour and lunch at Gettysburg battlefield
It’s not too late to sign up to travel with MVNU to Washington, D.C., from Oct. 10-14!
• An evening performance at Ford’s Theatre
• Excellent travel accommodations on Deluxe Motor Coach
• Breathtaking fall foliage scenery en route
Cost: $525 per person/$975 per couple (Cost is all inclusive with the exception of two lunches.)
To register:
Call Austin Swallow, Executive Director of Development, at 1-800-367-9294 (Development option) or e-mail development@mvnu.edu.
Rev. Russell and Pat Long
By J. Keith Newman, Vice President for University Advancement, Enrollment Services and Student Development
Like miners in search of gold, each year Admissions counselors go prospecting for the next class of Mount Vernon Nazarene University students. Camps, retreats, churches, conventions, college fairs and a host of other places and events provide venues for these recruiters as they seek interested applicants for the life-changing MVNU experience.
Led by Director of Admissions Tim Eades, this team of dedicated recruiters works long hours, logs thousands of miles and burns up the phone lines telling the MVNU story, helping to make the dream of a Christian university education become a reality. Working with a prospect pool of 6,000-7,000 names, Admissions personnel will recruit a first-time freshman class of between 300-400. This fall students travel to Mount Vernon from places as far away as Hungary, Switzerland, Romania and Peru, while others join us from their homes within walking distance of the campus. For many of these new students, the faithful efforts of a persevering Admissions counselor made the difference.
During the past year, MVNU Admissions Counselor Sage Thompson struck gold in the hills of southern Ohio. Samantha Baughman, Billy Cherry, Whitney Clark, Holly Foltz, B.J. Hughes, Josh Schluep and Jenna Wadsworth—all from the Logan Church of the Nazarene—chose MVNU and became a part of the class of 2009. Three of the seven students have known for at least five years that MVNU was their school of choice. Pastor Tom Gates, Music Minister Paul Baker (’93), Youth Pastor Travis Branstetter (’04) and a great group of MVNU alumni have partnered with MVNU in promoting and encouraging interaction with University personnel and have made numerous campus visits.
Reflecting on the relationship between the local church and MVNU, Gates commented, “As their pastor, I believe that our students will receive an excellent liberal arts education founded upon a solid Christian holiness heritage. My hope is that our students will develop a lifestyle of servanthood and a commitment to others, finding Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. I believe that MVNU can help train and equip our students to go into the world in whatever vocations God has called them to and make a difference for the kingdom of God.”
“The Logan 7,” as they have affectionately been dubbed, will enter their freshman year with a variety of career aspirations, including business, education, psychology, medicine, and ministry. Each is excited about the opportunity to make new friends and study in a Christian environment, but all admit that there is great comfort in coming to campus with a group of people that they have been building a relationship with for years.
As an academic community of faith committed to shaping Christ-like leaders for lifelong service, we are grateful for the support and influence of all our constituents. We believe the investment in students like Samantha, Billy, Whitney, Holly, B.J., Josh and Jenna will pay great dividends now and for eternity. Join us in praying for the class of 2009 and for the Admissions counselors who are already hard at work prospecting for next year. By the way, if you know a student who might be interested in a life-changing educational experience, please call 1-866-462-MVNU or check us out online at www.gotomvnu.com.
Standing L-R: B.J. Hughes, Whitney Clark, Youth Pastor Travis Branstetter,
Pastor Tom Gates, Music Minister Paul Baker and Samantha Baughman. Seated: Holly Foltz and Jenna Wadsworth. Not pictured: Billy Cherry and Josh Schluep.
From the archives…
Submitted by Walt Baughman, Archivist
The contest for the basketball team identification in the Summer issue brought in 11 entries, 10 of which were correct. One individual identified the players as Speedy, Gunner, Happy, Zippy, Long Arm, etc. She receives a “special” prize. Interestingly enough, she works in a library of a distinguished institution of higher learning. The first entry was from a present-day student who correctly identified everyone in the picture. Well done, Alex! Two players in the picture sent in submissions: Don Eads (no. 35) and Dan Noel (no. 25). Thanks, guys, for your Pioneer status.
The picture seen here is a pastoral campus scene of the School—an environment that has afforded time for thought and reflection by many over the years. Please remember that we enjoy receiving items to be placed into the archives. I would also be glad to hear from you at wbaughma@mvnu.edu.
New Web site offers students gateway to Ohio’s private colleges
The Ohio Foundation of Independent Colleges (OFIC) and the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities of Ohio (AICUO) have partnered with Sallie Mae® Ohio and Student Loan Funding to create a new Web site: www.ohioprivatecolleges.com. This site is a gateway for prospective students and parents to Ohio’s private colleges and universities.
The site also contains information that assists students in preparing for college and includes the Ohio Private Colleges e-Counselor and Non-Traditional e-Counselor, through which students may find the college best suited to their needs. Admission and financial aid information, including required forms, are also contained on the site.
New Faculty 2005-2006
Front row, L-R: Janice Nielson, M.Ed. Assistant Professor of Education
D. Eric Browning, M.A. Assistant Professor, Director of Counseling and Wellness
Gathogo Mukuria, Ph.D. Professor of Education
James Harriman, M.B.A. Assistant Professor of Business
Ryan Halley, Ph.D. Assistant Professor of Business
Ardyth Stull, M.A. Assistant Professor of Family and Consumer Sciences
Back row, L-R: Timothy L. Barrett, M.A. Assistant Professor of Education
Elaine J. Blair, M.A. Assistant Professor, Director of Career Services
Edward Thomas, Ph.D. Assistant Professor of Business
Chris Neuenschwander, M.B.A. Assistant Professor of Business
Robert S. Barnard, Ph.D. Assistant Professor of Business
Not pictured: Teresa L. Wood, R.N., Ph.D. Associate Professor of Nursing and Director of Nursing