NCU Magazine Summer 2020 Issue

NCUMagazine

Summer 2020

The Magazine of North Central University

A CHANGING WORLD The unforgettable spring of 2020 Summer 2020 | 1

NCU Magazine Summer 2020 North Central University Administration President Scott Hagan, Ph.D. Executive VP Andrew Denton, Ph.D. VP, Academic Affairs Greg Leeper VP, Spiritual Life and Student Development Doug Graham ’86, D.Min. Editorial Nancy Cawley Zugschwert, ’19 M.A., Editor Abby VandenLangenberg, Lead Designer Photography Erica Hanson ’13 Abby VandenLangenberg Unless noted, photos are by NCU Marketing Contributors Daniel Appel Victoria Cortese ’20 Madison Errichiello ’18 Tabby (Wilson ’89) Finton Erica Hanson ’13 Judy (Oftedal ’77) Jones Michael Knipe ’19 Matt Lehman Aimee (Perrin ’97) Robertson Contact Office of Communications communications@northcentral.edu 612.343.5001 Alumni Relations alumni@northcentral.edu 612.343.4743

In this issue Letter from the President Reimagining NCU food services and dining facilities Biology program debuts this fall President’s surprise celebration Commencement rescheduled for Dec. 12 Social Work reaccredited Global Studies major prepares students for work in diverse world Antioch Initiative holds virtual Run for the Unreached Worship Live music brings encouragement in difficult season NCU professor helps make health information accessible Anderson, Woelfle selected for faculty, staff of the year Leeper appointed Vice President for Academic Affairs Burrell named Dean of Graduate Education and Accreditation Evens, Kersten retire from full-time teaching The heartbeat of a coach: Paul Brunner COVID-19 pandemic rewrites spring story at NCU Give Day reset blesses students impacted by COVID-19 Virtual learning environment includes virtual chapel

Admissions admissions@northcentral.edu 800.289.6222

Acts of caring in COVID-19 crisis

NCU Magazine is produced by the Offices of Communications and Marketing and distributed free of charge to alumni, donors, and friends of North Central University.

NCU serves as site for George Floyd memorial service

NCU Mission North Central University is a Christ-centered, Bible-based, Pentecostal school with a commitment to academic excellence that prepares students to fulfill biblical models of leadership and ministry throughout the world.

Business students support COVID-impacted organizations Alumni and faculty authors Santiago named next Alumni Board President NCU Bible Lands & Alumni Tour Alumni Updates In Memory

Copyright © 2020 North Central University All Rights Reserved

The cover montage features images from stories in this issue plus images from a video greeting made by faculty, staff, and administration for the North Central University Class of 2020. Because the COVID-19 pandemic caused the postponement of Commencement, the video was sent to students and posted on social media on May 1, which would have been graduation day. Watch the video here.

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Letter from the President

NCUMagazine

Summer 2020

I’ve often wondered what initially passed through NCU founder Frank Lindquist’s mind in the mid-1930s when he first learned about the availability of the Asbury Hospital building on Elliot Avenue. The fierce and ruthless impact of the Great Depression was ravaging Minneapolis with joblessness, drunkenness, hunger, and hopelessness.

If somehow this gargantuan building was miraculously acquired, it would mean the fledgling Bible Institute would be moving closer than ever to the despair of downtown Minneapolis. The pain and potential of city life would define the NCU story for generations to come.

Purpose in the heart of the city

It took tremendous courage and faith for Rev. Lindquist to believe that a new Bible Institute could survive the worst economic downturn in the history of the industrialized world. The Great Depression began after the stock market crash of 1929 and lasted until 1939, sending Wall Street into a panic and destroying the lives of millions. It took more than 25 years for the market to recover from the 1929 crash.

These poor economic and social conditions undoubtedly badgered the hopes and visions of North Central for many years. Yet, God protected and flourished the school and its people despite the times in which they lived.

Now more than ever, I have come to believe that it was God’s perfect plan to position NCU in the heart of the city.

Minneapolis has gone through a difficult year. Like the rest of the world, COVID-19 brought a shocking end to the 2020 spring semester at NCU. Then, in the heart of isolation and just blocks from campus, was the murder of George Floyd.

The public response and outcry have manifested around the world, and locally there is ongoing debate about what actions are needed to move forward.

Change in perspective

Before becoming a college president, I served for more than 30 years as a local church pastor. Located near an urban, disenfranchised community plagued by a myriad of economic, social, and educational challenges, our family church participated in neighborhood efforts and citywide initiatives to bring relief to those in need of emotional and physical shelter. I, along with many others in Sacramento, sought to identify racial and resource disparity. We sought to participate in mutuality and access.

A university of promise

These experiences as a pastor, especially as they related to subjugated communities, directly informed my early imaginations of the college presidency at NCU. I saw education as a healing agency by envisioning a beautiful and comprehensive “university of promise” in downtown Minneapolis. At this Pentecostal college, exceptional young I now believe we are part of a set-up, not a setback. In the people from all over the United States are molded into same way the lame man was carried and then “… set down every day at the gate of the temple, which is called Beautiful, promising leaders with the skills and Christ-like vision to in order to beg alms of those who were entering the temple” make history. For students, the city of Minneapolis is the perfect incubator to make that happen.

(Acts 3:2), so the Lord has placed an opportunity before us as “Christ in the city” university. I imagine the street Minneapolis is a world-class city, and NCU is positioned to hustlers who laid the lame man outside the temple required be a leader in proactive missional dialogue. As we keep our their cut at the end of each day—a kind of transportation eyes on the Lord and on our mission, NCU can be among tax. The lame man had been a fixture outside the temple the best universities in America as we model and develop for years. But along came Peter and John—two leaders on servant-leadership from an urban platform. We are poised mission and looking to make eye contact, not avoid it. This to excel in biblical leadership, hiring, innovation, and career busy space of urban intersectionality where the collision of placement. Our window has been opened wide.

God’s Kingdom and unmet social need happened reminds us Minneapolis is our Beautiful Gate. of our template at NCU. For many, the year 2020 is viewed as a setback. I, too, initially struggled to make sense of this new paradigm and find my professional and emotional footing. But my perspective has changed.

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CARLSON HALL REMODEL

Reimagining NCU food services and dining facilities CARLSON HALL REMODEL

When students return to the North Central University campus in August, after being off campus since mid-March, they will be eating in a completely renovated dining facility featuring best-in-class food options.

Under a new 10-year contract with Sodexo, an international dining services and facilities management company, North Central, together with Sodexo and building partner Welsh Construction, is reinventing residential dining, retail, and catering experience for students and faculty, staff, and guests.

As the new food services partner, Sodexo will underwrite a facility upgrade for the dining center. The first phase, happening this summer, includes the renovation of the current cafeteria space in Carlson Hall.

Executive Director of Operations Jordan Robertson ’99, who is overseeing the project, describes Phase 1 as “a complete reimagining of the dining experience.” Robertson said the NCU Dining Center will feature cook-to-order stations, a pizza/ grill area, international station, featured desserts, and an array of healthy food options. “The main exterior entrance will move to Elliot Avenue,” Robertson explained, “and a new stairway coming down from the Carlson-CLC skyway will provide easy access from the inside.”

NCU Executive Vice President Andrew Denton, Ph.D., initiated the relationship with Sodexo to bring a high-caliber food service experience. “We’re looking forward to a long-term partnership with Sodexo,” Denton said. “Creating a world-class dining experience for our students in an updated and expanded environment fits perfectly into our plans to propel North Central into the next decade.”

Phase 2 will include an expansion to the first and the second floors of Carlson Hall to house additional dining room capacity (first floor) and a new student-union-style space (second floor). It is expected to open in August 2021.

Updates on construction progress, news about new food options, and more are available at northcentral.edu/ncudining.

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President’s surprise celebration President Scott Hagan, Ph.D., walked into his office on May 26 to discover the perfect expression of emotion regarding the completion of his Ph.D. in Leadership Studies at Gonzaga University: “Finally!” In addition to the decorations, the president found dozens of cards and gifts from members of the NCU community congratulating him on persisting in his studies while also transitioning to his presidential role. His dissertation title, “Becoming President: An Autoethnography,” was inspired by the first two years of his Presidency at North Central University. Congratulations, Dr. Hagan!

Biology program debuts this fall After a successful visit from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) accreditation team in late October, North Central University received word that a proposed major in the Biological Sciences has been approved.

The new major will position the university to offer one of the most frequently requested fields of study.

Students in this major will be prepared to serve in health care, sciences, forensics, research, and more.

Leah Cook, Ph.D., Associate Professor and Program Director of the School of Science and Math, oversees the new program and is ecstatic about what North Central has to offer. “I love the fact that we can explore science from a Christian worldview and prepare students to make an impact on and through the sciences!”

Recruiting students for the new major is underway, and the first classes will be offered in fall 2020.

Commencement rescheduled for Dec. 12 The spring 2020 Commencement exercises were postponed due to COVID-19 and have been rescheduled:

Saturday, Dec. 12, 2020 9:30 a.m.

Emmanuel Christian Center Spring Lake Park, Minnesota The event will be ticketed in order to limit the size and comply with all health regulations in place at that time. More details will be available later this summer at northcentral.edu/commencement.

Social Work reaccredited North Central University’s Social Work program has been reaccredited for another eight years through the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). By attending an accredited school, Social Work students gain one-year advanced standing in master’s programs and are able sit for licensure with their bachelor’s degree. The CSWE reaccreditation effort was led by program faculty and included extensive interviews with faculty, students, and graduates.

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Global Studies major prepares students for work in diverse world To open doors for Kingdom opportunities around the world, North Central University has revised its curriculum in intercultural studies (ICS) and updated the name of the major to Global Studies. This renamed major provides a dynamic course of study that explores cultural learning, language acquisition, biblical and theological studies, and practical skills.

The Global Studies major can be completed in just 50 credits to allow combining with a complementary minor or second major. The major equips students to work successfully internationally in education, business, nonprofits, music, communications, humanitarian work, TEFL, human services, and more. Students will learn how to contextualize faith, build community, develop cultural awareness, and develop skills in other languages.

Adopting the name “Global Studies” provides additional benefits for students, graduates, and the institution. For example, marketing trends indicate that students are more likely to search for programs using this terminology. Additionally, countries that can be difficult to access for Kingdom work flag specific terms that may lead to denial of work visas. The new name is more likely to open doors and access for graduates.

Antioch Initiative holds virtual Run for the Unreached @chey.bechelli

@meghany Runners (and walkers) from around the world submitted photos from their personal participation in the virtual Antioch Run for the Unreached on April 25.

In 2019, The Antioch Initiative hosted the first-ever Run for the Unreached and saw about 100 participants come out to run for the cause on a chilly April day. The group was gearing up for the second annual run and hoping to double that number when the North Central University campus shut down in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Instead of 200 people running around a Minnesota lake, the “Un” Run included 518 people running (and walking) all over the country (34 states) and around the world (at least five countries).

Nick Robertson, Ph.D., Director of The Antioch Initiative, said that the run accomplished its mission. “The purpose of the run was raising awareness, concern, and prayer for those who still do not have access to Christ and His love,” he said. “We also raised some extra funds to distribute among the 11 participating missionaries, but the main purpose was advocacy.”

Students from a project management class taught by Director of the College of Business and Technology Shawn Sauve, MBA, pitched in to help with the planning and assisted the group immensely when they had to switch to a virtual event.

Sauve said, “For our project management course, the Run for the Unreached was an opportunity to serve the Antioch Initiative and provide students with tangible educational experiences in initiating, planning, executing, and closing a project. Students were able to move beyond merely learning knowledge about project management, to demonstrating and using project management skills and best practices.”

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Worship Live team members Genesis, Grant, and Konrad, along with the NCU Chorale, participate in a live recording session during an NCU chapel service.

Regina Daniels of NCU’s Carlstrom ASLInterpreting Department, pictured here (center) with students, served as an ASL interpreter for White House Coronavirus Task Force briefings this spring.

Worship Live music brings encouragement in difficult season

NCU professor helps make health information accessible

North Central’s Worship Live (WL), a student-faculty collaborative effort responsible for leading worship in chapel throughout the school year, has released two original recordings this spring: “You Will Be Our God” and “Nothing but Goodness;” “Psalm 100 (Shout for Joy)” will come out in July. Traditionally, WL records a full album every other year but decided to record and release a few singles this year. The powerful, encouraging music from the group could not have come in a timelier fashion.

Regina Daniels, M.A., Assistant Professor in the Carlstrom ASL-Interpreting Department, was invited to serve as an ASL interpreter for White House Coronavirus Task Force briefings this spring. She served as a member of a two-person Deaf interpreter/hearing interpreter team: the hearing interpreter signed the source message from the speaker for the Deaf interpreter; the Deaf interpreter translated the message into the native form of ASL. Daniels, who is Deaf, said that having a native ASL-speaker interpret helps ensure the message will be understood as clearly as possible.

“You Will Be Our God”—a first-time collaboration

by College of Fine Arts faculty members Jeff Deyo, Ellington Porter, M.A., and Vinnie Zarletti ’02, D.W.S.,— came out in March, shortly after NCU shifted to a virtual learning environment due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The song not only encouraged the NCU community while missing one another and daily chapel gatherings, but also listeners around the world with its biblical message and true spirit of worship.

“Nothing but Goodness” was written by NCU student Caleb Dee. “Psalm 100 (Shout for Joy),” also written by Deyo, Porter, and Zarletti, draws from an ancient Gregorian chant melody, and the lyrics are verbatim Scripture.

Sydney (Capeling) Groven ’12, ’19 M.A., Instructor in the Carlstrom ASL-Interpreting Department, also participated in the briefings as the hearing interpreter, assisting with preparation for live interpreting.

Daniels said, “This is truly an amazing opportunity for us, and we are excited to provide access to the [Deaf] community. This kind of access has been a dream of the Deaf community for some time, and it is finally coming to fruition.”

Read more on the blog.

The newest songs and previous WL releases are available through YouTube (North Central University) and iTunes and Spotify (NCU Worship Live).

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Anderson, Woelfle selected for faculty, staff of the year Long-term employees recognized by students and peers Amy Anderson Faculty of the Year Amy Anderson, Ph.D., was recognized as North Central University’s 2020 recipient of the Dr. Gordon Anderson Faculty Award for Excellence. The award was established by an anonymous friend of the university to honor Gordon Anderson’s legacy and passion for faculty excellence in teaching, scholarship, and service.

Amy Anderson, Professor in the School of Biblical and Theological Studies, joined North Central in 1999. She teaches New Testament and Greek every semester and is the regular instructor for Johannine Literature. She loves to talk to students about ancient Greek manuscripts, preparing for grad school or seminary, and university ministry.

“Dr. Amy” is known for her rigorous standards for her students, and is well respected in the North Central Community.

Dean of the College of Church Leadership, Allen Tennison, Ph.D., said, “Dr. Amy Anderson received the Faculty of the Year award at North Central University for 2019-2020 based on nominations from students and faculty. This well-

deserved award recognizes Dr. Anderson for her excellence in teaching, her contributions to biblical scholarship and her success in motivating students towards lifelong learning. In more than twenty years of teaching at NCU, she has instilled into thousands of students a deeper love for the biblical text, a better understanding of a Christian worldview and a fresh commitment to intellectual rigor.”

Dr. Amy Anderson has given so much to the students, staff, and faculty of North Central University and is very deserving to be named North Central University’s 20192020 Faculty of the Year. Read more.

Chris Woelfle Staff of the Year Through a school year that no one could have anticipated, Carlson Hall Resident Director (RD) Chris Woelfle ’00 has handled every twist and turn with grace and wisdom. On June 24, President Scott Hagan announced that Woelfle had been selected as Staff of the Year.

“This year’s winner has been at NCU for 20 years this August and his name is synonymous with the word consistency,” Hagan said in making the announcement via an all-staff/all-faculty Zoom meeting. “This past academic year has been incredibly challenging. We have had to work through the death of a student, and then we had the unexpected closure of the residence halls due to COVID-19.

Through it all, [Chris] has served the students with grace, selflessness, and stability. Chris is committed to an exceptionally high level of service and truly embodies the mission and vision of North Central University.”

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Jeremy Williamson ’09, MA, Dean of Students, said, “NCU is incredible grateful for Chris’s dedication, his kindness and care, and his belief in our students in helping them walk out biblical models of leadership.” Read more.

Leeper appointed Vice President for Academic Affairs North Central University President Scott Hagan, Ph.D. announced that Greg Leeper has been appointed Vice President for Academic Affairs. Leeper served most recently as Vice President for Strategy and Online Education. Leeper has nearly 20 years of experience in higher education with significant leadership and management experience, including academic administration and classroom teaching. “Greg brings a tremendous amount of strength and proven competency to this role,” Hagan said. Leeper is in the process of finishing his doctoral work at the University of Minnesota.

Burrell named Dean of Graduate Education and Accreditation LaToya Burrell, JD, MBA, has been appointed as Dean of Graduate Education and Accreditation. After serving as interim leader of the College of Graduate and Professional Education since February, Burrell accepted the permanent appointment in June. She will also continue to serve as Associate Professor in the College of Business and Technology, teaching a reduced course load and advising her current students. Burrell has been at North Central since 2015. Vice President for Academic Affairs Greg Leeper said, “Over these past months, it became clear that Professor Burrell was the individual to lead our graduate studies area into the future as we expand and deepen our academic offerings.”

North Central University’s Master of Arts in Strategic Leadership (MASL) just got even better!

Announcing three new tracks for the fully online MASL degree coming this fall: • BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION LEADERSHIP • CHURCH LEADERSHIP • WORSHIP ARTS LEADERSHIP

LEAD WHERE YOU ARE AND WHERE YOU’RE GOING

Learn to lead and serve in your areas of strength and interest!

The original 30-credit MASL degree is also available fully online.

Information, course listings, and course descriptions for each track can be found HERE.

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Evens, Kersten retire from full-time teaching Leslie Crabtree Evens and Joanne Kersten retired from their full-time teaching roles at North Central University in December 2019. Here are their reflections on their time at NCU.

Joanne Kersten, M.A., Associate Professor of Fine Arts WHEN DID YOU START TEACHING?

I started as music faculty in 1974 and served full-time until 1983, including three years as chair of the Music Department. I returned to NCU as an adjunct professor in 1994 and then full-time again from 1997–2019.

WHAT JOB TITLES AND ROLES DID YOU HOLD AT NCU?

Associate Professor; Music Department Chairperson; Faculty Representative to the President’s Cabinet; Academic Affairs Committee Member; WOVEN Director.

WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR NOTABLE ACHIEVEMENTS?

Included in Outstanding Young Women of America in 1981; served as President of Minneapolis Music Teachers Forum and columnist for their monthly newsletter; Mu Phi Epsilon honor society; taught and studied two years for Korea University; helped start NCU’s WOVEN music education program.

FAVORITE CLASS TO TEACH? Music Theory II was my favorite.

WHAT DID YOU LIKE BEST ABOUT TEACHING?

Every individual was rich in their own story and their contribution to our class.

MOST MEMORABLE NCU MOMENT(S)?

One of my favorite memories of NCU involves the years spent with WOVEN (With One Voice Energizing Neighborhoods), providing a music school experience for neighborhood children. The goals of WOVEN for the students were to promote literacy, have a college mentor, and have opportunities for success. The objectives of WOVEN for NCU student teachers were to have someone to invest in, experience teaching and curriculum planning, and have a mentoring opportunity with a needy child/family. Today, WOVEN teachers are leaders in the USA and around the world. Many WOVEN students have gone on to university and are serving as leaders in business, social services, and the music industry. Many say that having a mentor in college through WOVEN helped them dream bigger, develop more personal discipline, and give them more confidence. To all who have participated and/or contributed to WOVEN or NCU, your dollars and time have been a worthwhile investment for a better world.

WHAT WILL RETIREMENT LOOK LIKE FOR YOU?

Spending time with five grandchildren, family, and friends; enjoying bike rides and walks; playing the piano for hours; composing, publishing in collaboration with area musicians; doing building and landscaping projects with my husband, Professor Dr. Daniel Kersten.

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Leslie Crabtree Evens, Ed.D., Professor of English WHEN DID YOU START TEACHING?

I came to North Central in 1981. I served full-time until retirement except fall 1993–spring 1998, following the birth of my third child. At the time I interviewed, no classes were in session, so no one could see me teach. President Don Argue offered me a contract but hedged his bet—my contract was for only one semester! The rest, as the cliché says, is history.

WHAT JOB TITLES AND ROLES DID YOU HOLD AT NCU?

Professor of English; Director of The Write Place (precursor to the Student Success Center); Chair of Communications Arts; Chair of English Department; chaired more committees than I could count!

WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR NOTABLE ACHIEVEMENTS?

The achievement that means the most to me was the Distinguished Educator Award for contributions to post-secondary education in the Alliance for Higher Education in the Assemblies of God in 2015. The reason is that the award is really about the students. When I started my doctoral program, I chose an Ed.D. rather than a Ph.D. because my goal was to become a master teacher. I also started the study skills program and the writing lab, which eventually grew to be what we now know as the Student Success Center.

FAVORITE CLASS(ES) TO TEACH?

My favorite was Structure of the English Language, a senior-level grammar course. The second favorite was Poetry Writing.

WHAT DID YOU LIKE BEST ABOUT TEACHING?

Students. Students. Students. As much as I enjoyed the subject matter, it didn’t mean as much to me as engaging with students over the subject matter. I thrived on lively classroom discussions—even the students who challenged me! I loved seeing those “Aha!” moments.

The one-on-one mentoring that took place was one of the most meaningful aspects of my work. Students would often meet me at my office, and we would walk down to one of the coffee shops just to talk. When I look at my list of friends on Facebook, the majority are former students.

MOST MEMORABLE NCU MOMENT(S)?

Chapel—How does a person capture in a few words what chapel means? I heard some of the best preaching and experienced the most powerful worship to be had anywhere. I loved praying with the students around the altar.

So many teaching moments stand out to me, but stories of transformation—when a student starts to believe in himself or herself—are always the most powerful.

Another moment that stands out was when God used the people of NCU for divine healing for my eye. I am thankful that I taught in a community that prays.

WHAT WILL RETIREMENT LOOK LIKE FOR YOU?

I am now working full time for the Hennepin County Library system in Brooklyn Park. My husband and I attend a small church in south Minneapolis, where I work in outreach through crafting events and organizing an annual craft fair and hosting community soup suppers. I continue to enjoy my hobbies: crocheting, gardening, and boating.

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Photos by Cullen Fleming, ncurams.com

The heartbeat of a coach: Paul Brunner

By Michael Knipe ’19, Head Track and Cross Country Coach, Assistant Men’s Basketball Coach, Athletics Communication Director Coaching at North Central University (NCU) is something unique, special. Athletes come from a wide range of backgrounds with hopes of helping contribute to success on the court or the field while trying to find the balance with life outside of athletics. It can be a daunting task to help guide and lead young adults into their next season of life while helping them to develop in the sport they love.

Perhaps no coach at North Central better understands this than head women’s basketball coach Paul Brunner ’14.

The hard lessons of that first season were not lost on Brunner. He credits the athletes of that team for building a culture that continues to grow today. “That first season, we faced challenges by not having a deep roster. However, our team never quit,” Brunner said. “They never got discouraged by a lack of results. I tell people that it was that first season that set the trajectory for where we wanted to go.”

After spending two seasons as an assistant men’s basketball coach, Brunner found himself thrust into a head coach job after the unexpected departure of the previous coach. With no time to prepare and zero experience as a head coach, Brunner would describe himself as “young, inexperienced, and trying to figure out what it would take to coach at this level.”

Brunner wanted to go to a place where his team could compete for UMAC championships and embrace personal growth outside of basketball, which ultimately has a more significant impact than any stat line. Brunner’s coaching philosophy was born out of his own experiences in high school and college, where coaches helped to shape his mindset about basketball and life. His coaches helped him figure out what his next steps would be, even influencing his decision to attend North Central University.

Starting with a struggling seven

A community unlike any other

Throughout that first season, the team of just seven women struggled to find success in the win column, finishing the season in last place within the Upper Midwest Athletic Conference (UMAC) and with an overall record of 6-19.

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When Brunner arrived at NCU, he found a community unlike any he had ever experienced. Although he was not able to compete collegiately due to a career-ending injury, his time at North Central would be similar to those of many

students: a time of growth. “When I entered North Central, I was a young, dumb, immature 18-year-old who had many things that I needed to learn,” Brunner reflected.

“North Central’s people and community changed my life.

Professors, mentors, and friends alike profoundly impacted me. I received a phenomenal education in the classroom and outside of it. I grew as a man in my faith, my maturity, and my approach to life. Oh, and I met my wife, Abby! It was life-changing.”

Since that time, Brunner has proceeded to bring about a new era for women’s basketball. In each of the last four seasons, the Rams women’s basketball team has improved in the rankings, going from last place in the conference in Brunner’s first season to eighth, seventh, and finishing in fifth in 2020, including making it to the playoffs each of the past two seasons. In the 2019–20 season, Brunner surpassed the 50-win mark in a huge blowout of conference rival Martin Luther College.

NCU Open 2020 Please join us on August 10 for the 27th Annual NCU Open presented by The Wealth Group at Rush Creek Golf Club in Maple Grove, Minnesota.

The NCU Open golf tournament is an annual four-person, scramble golf tournament, with contributions supporting North Central University student scholarships. Enjoy a day of golf on one of Minnesota’s most popular golf courses while supporting the leaders of tomorrow.

Register today!

Becoming the best they can be

Brunner is thankful for where he currently sits and knows that the work is not done. “I’m thankful for the mentors in my life. [They have] all have continued to push me to become the best coach I can be.” Knowing that he has a support system behind him, Brunner is eager for the future.

Entering his sixth season at the helm, Brunner is eager to continue developing the athletes under his charge both on and off the court. “We will continue to take the steps necessary to improve, develop, and grow into the best people and team that we can,” Brunner said.

The heart behind the growth lies in this thought: North Central is special. “I know the impact that this place can have on young adults, from personal experience. I’ve seen it time and time again. This place has great people in the best location. Basketball is only a small part of who we are and where we are headed. I’m glad to be on the journey here.”

New lights in Elliot Park The soccer and lacrosse field in Elliot Park was outfitted in March with four light poles that will allow practices and games to extend into the evening. The new lighting is a component of a Minneapolis Parks project that will also bring an expanded, premier street-style public skate plaza. The projects are funded through a Hennepin County Youth Sports grant and Elliot Park Neighborhood Park Dedication funds.

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Despite the cancellation of their Italy tour due to the COVID-19 pandemic, members of the NCU Chorale took the opportunity to still sing God’s praises in Dan Forrest’s rendition of “My Jesus I Love Thee.”

To make the recording, students recorded themselves individually singing the song, then sent the audio/video file to Audiovisual Production Lead Chris Joseph via YouTube. Joseph aligned the videos with the audio so that they matched up with the recording from accompanist, Associate Professor Joshua Tompkins, D.M.A. The Chorale is directed by Larry Bach, Dean of the College of Fine Arts.

Listen to the Chorale

COVID-19 pandemic rewrites spring story at NCU North Central University students were enjoying spring break (March 9–13) when the coronavirus COVID-19 started making big news across the nation. In short order, conversations at universities across the country, including North Central, escalated from considering what safety precautions would be needed on campus to discussions of closure and remote learning.

On March 15, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz called for all Minnesota public schools to be closed by March 18 and remain closed at least through March 27.

On March 18, President Scott Hagan announced that all NCU in-person courses would switch to a virtual learning environment for the remainder of the semester.

athletic events—canceled. Long-anticipated trips—to Italy for the NCU Chorale and other global destinations for Co:Mission trips—canceled. Commencement for the Class of 2020—postponed until December 12.

Summer online courses have continued as usual. As the university prepares to open for on-campus and online classes on Aug. 26, the coronavirus pandemic remains at the forefront of all planning. A Reopening Task Force is hard at work, mapping out multiple scenarios and working with experts to create a safe and healthy campus.

In a communication on May 14 to NCU students, faculty, and staff, Hagan said, “We are making these plans in confidence, barring any extensive restrictions or mandates we must follow for the sake of public health, and, as with all things, if the Lord wills.” Hagan noted the plan is to make NCU coronavirus-safe, providing for testing, tracking, treating, and containing.

Students who needed to stay on campus due to distance from home or essential work obligations were able to petition to remain on campus, but all other students were encouraged to stay at home or return home following break. Provisions were made for students to retrieve their The global pandemic has brought issues of life and death, belongings, although many chose to wait until the end of the hope and disappointment to everyone’s doorstep. There semester to return to campus for their things. have also emerged new opportunities for developing skills, building relationships, calling for flexibility and grace on a Staff and faculty also began working remotely on March 17; grand scale, and learning to navigate new experiences. only a core of essential employees came to campus to service residential students’ needs and care for NCU facilities.

For a full timeline and details of North Central’s COVID-19 Spring, visit northcentral.edu/covid19.

For North Central and organizations everywhere, “COVID-19 Spring” brought Zoom meetings, virtual experiences, and cancellations: Spring plays, concerts, and 14 | NCU Magazine

Give Day reset blesses students impacted by COVID-19 In response to the impact of an international pandemic on North Central University students, a reset and reimagined Give Day brought 230+ alumni and friends (virtually) together and raised $36,345 for emergency student aid.

According to Aimee (Perrin ’97) Robertson, Executive Director of Advancement, the funds raised were used to help meet the educational financial needs of students who lost income due to the COVID-19 crisis. “When everything changed this spring, we initially thought we would just cancel Give Day,” Robertson said. “But we began hearing from students who were being adversely affected economically due to COVID-19 job loss they or their families were experiencing, and realized we had a great opportunity to do something to help.”

Give Day was changed to a two-day event, April 8 and 9, providing an opportunity to support students, pray for alumni and students, and give encouragement to alumni business owners.

“As part of our Give Day initiative we wanted to recognize challenges being faced not only by our students but also our alumni and the extended NCU family,” Robertson said. “So we took the opportunity to create an Alumni Business Directory.”

The new Alumni Business Directory will be maintained on an ongoing basis. Alumni interested in having their business listed can apply by using the “Have your business listed” form located on the directory page.

Virtual learning environment includes virtual chapel With the change to a virtual learning environment for oncampus classes this spring, NCU leaders decided to ensure access to one of the most important components of a North Central education: daily chapel. On the morning of March 23, daily virtual chapel launched on YouTube.

Each daily chapel included a worship set pre-recorded by one of NCU’s Worship Arts faculty members, followed by a message from the president, faculty member, or guest speaker. Chapel recordings were released at 11 a.m. each weekday, and students, faculty, and staff were encouraged to tune-in at that time to be able to worship together, even though people were physically apart. Each session was also available to watch later or watch again.

The virtual chapel team on April 7 included speaker Erin White ’05, M.A., musicians (L to R) Justine Zarletti, Vinnie Zarletti ’02, D.W.S., and Gina Zarletti ’05, and interpreter Rebecca (Rees ’17) Meier

Doug Graham, D.Min., Vice President for Spiritual Life and Student Development, said in his invitation to the virtual chapel: “Although we may be separated geographically, by re-engaging in worship through music and Bible preaching/teaching (as we’ve done for the past 90 years), we will in the truest sense remain connected spiritually through our primary distinctive: daily chapel!”

Summer 2020 | 15

Acts of caring in COVID-19 crisis God uses challenges to stretch His people, and many in the NCU community have used the COVID-19 crisis as a time to do God’s work. Here are a few stories of members of the NCU family stepping up to serve and make a difference.

Jacob Dilger ’19

Churches meeting the needs of their communities

Submitted

Shayna Fowler ’18 (left)

Jacob Dilger ’19 has been working with his church (Stone Creek, Urbana, IL) to connect with people through social media platforms, personal phone calls, letters, and more. The pandemic has led to opportunities for the church to connect with its community on a deeper level than ever before by providing food for thousands of families during this difficult time.

Church-to-church connections have been strengthened as churches in the area work together and are continuing to find ways to serve together more effectively for their community. Dilger said, “I’m so thankful to be a part of a life-giving church!”

Masks for health care workers

Submitted

Colin Miller

When Khana founder Shayna Fowler ’18 learned about the mask shortage impacting hospitals around the U.S., she realized her organization’s mission of serving women and girls in Africa could easily be expanded to serve women in health care—who make up 80 percent of the health care workforce in the U.S. Khana, which is awaiting its 501c3 designation as a nonprofit, established a GoFundMe page to provide masks to under-resourced hospitals.

Meeting tech needs for families

The massive migration to virtual learning this spring found many families struggling to figure out how their children could learn online when the family did not have a computer! Colin Miller, Assistant Professor and Director of the School of Technology, worked with his students to create computers from scratch and donate them to families without access to technology during the pandemic. Miller and his computer science students built and donated computers to students and aided their ability to complete their virtual learning assignments from the safety of their homes.

16 | NCU Magazine

Separated from home to serve the homeless

Submitted

Jeremy Montgomery ’96

The Sunday Breakfast Rescue Mission operates as an essential business in Philadelphia. Jeremy Montgomery ’96, MBA/MA, is President and CEO of the mission. The mission implemented protocols to protect residents and continue service under restrictions due to COVID-19.

In an April interview with NBC News in Philadelphia, Montgomery noted they were still feeding residents in reduced capacity and were able to provide grab-andgo meals for the non-sheltered. Montgomery made the decision to self-quarantine from his own family so he could continue to serve the homeless without putting his family at risk. Staying away meant missing a planned celebration of his son’s 13th birthday. In the NBC interview, Montgomery said, “We are deeply driven to show that every single person who walks through our doors and every homeless person that we serve that they are loved.”

NCU senior shares positive perspective

As a member of the Class of 2020, Victoria Cortese felt the grief that comes with sweeping, unexpected change when COVID-19 changed just about everything for the homestretch of her senior year. Rather than complain, Cortese decided to focus on how she could still finish well in the unexpected season. She wrote a post for Table Salt, North Central University’s blog, entitled “How College Seniors Can Find Closure in the Wake of COVID-19”

Submitted

Victoria Cortese ’20

Cortese wrote, “In the wake of all this chaos, and as we grapple with the emotions we’re left with, we still need to move forward. Because whether it feels like it or not, we’re still going to graduate. And we’re still going into the unknown. So, for me, right now that looks like finding closure. Here are some ways in which I’ve found—and am still finding—closure for my senior year.”

She listed practical suggestions for fellow seniors: Reminisce on the past while also reimagining where they are going; be intentional about relationships and celebrate together; and write thank-you cards to acknowledge the contributions of friends and professors in their lives.

Cortese also wrote an article for Influence Magazine. In “Four Things College Students Need from the Church Now,” she shared wisdom that church leaders could use to minister to young people in the midst of the pandemic.

She suggested churches could impact college students by addressing four key needs: personal connection, meaningful work, a loving community, and hopeful encouragement.

Sydney Moore: Essential-worker hero

Submitted

Sydney Moore

After returning home due to COVID-19, sophomore Sydney Moore chose to work nine hours a day at a grocery store, followed by three or more hours a night studying to keep up with her school work.

Allen Tennison, Ph.D., said of Moore, “As an essential worker, she is one of our student-heroes.”

Summer 2020 | 17

Business students support COVID-impacted organizations North Central’s move to a virtual learning environment in March created an unexpected hiccup for many students when they had to suspend activity for required internships or were unable to access people and organizations that were to have been part of their senior capstone projects.

Concurrently, businesses and non-profit organizations were experiencing waves of change in an economy that for many sectors came to a grinding halt as a result of shelter-in-place restrictions placed on them.

While the dean and faculty of the College of Business and Technology fielded calls from students nervous about being able to complete their requirements, they realized there was actually a great opportunity before them.

A new ally for small businesses

According to Shawn Sauve, MBA, Director of the College of Business and Technology, they decided to find a way to connect students in need of practical work and project experience with organizations in need of help due to the COVID-19 crisis. The result was the NCU Consulting Consortium (NCUCC).

The NCUCC is for organizations that want to grow, address issues holding them back, or just take care of business functions. Organizations can tap into the expertise of North Central University faculty and students for assistance with their challenges and help to maximize opportunities.

Gathering a team of exceptional students, business leaders, and professors, the NCUCC formed a business consultation team to help small businesses, churches, and nonprofits not just survive but thrive during this time.

The original concept was launched with a simple social media post and the response from organizations interested in help was immediate. The process was quickly formalized, with interested parties completing an Application for Services Form to indicate how their business or 18 | NCU Magazine

NCU students created a new website (left) for a client as one of the projects of the NCU Consulting Consortium (NCUCC). Senior Christina Mitchell (right)updated branding and marketing approaches for Trenton’s Treats.

organization is currently being challenged. According to Sauve, if the project is within the scope of available student and faculty expertise, the organization’s leader is paired with an advanced business or technology student to work with them and recommend possible solutions. If the solutions are within a certain scope, the student may also be able to provide the necessary labor and skills to implement the recommendedations. This is all accomplished under the mentorship of business professionals and professors.

The best part of the program for those using the services is that there is no cost to the business or organization for this service! Bill Tibbetts, MBA, Dean of the College of Business and Technology, said, “We’re striving to serve the business community during this challenging time, even if it’s just a little bit. As well, it’s a brilliant opportunity for our students to further develop their professional skills in this realworld experience by working with real clients who have real challenges. It’s a win-win.”

Wide range of projects

Some of the NCUCC projects to date include: »

Helping a children’s entertainment company learn how to do virtual events since most of their March– June events were canceled, leaving 60 independently contracted artists with no work.

»

Assisting a church-plant based in Virginia, Minnesota, with website advice, technology support, and bookkeeping.

»

Creating and implementing a marketing plan for a turf installation company.

»

Providing social media marketing assistance, preparing a marketing plan, and consulting on financial needs for a 46-year-old family-run manufacturing company.

»

Providing an alumni-owned pizza business with employee training ideas and incentives and strategies for the future in light of changes in the restaurant industry.

Timely impact

Brianna Taplin, owner of Taplin to Your Health, LLC, was connected with senior Cheyenne Brown and has been thrilled with the partnership. “Getting the opportunity to partner with NCU has been the biggest blessing for my business. Just when I was at a loss for ideas moving forward, Cheyenne stepped in and quickly came to my rescue with new and innovative ideas. She was timely, professional, and beyond friendly! I know this is just what my business needed!”

sharing their emerging business and marketing skills while also learning from business owners and entrepreneurs about their specific industries.

The successful pairings of students and businesses who can learn from one another has created dynamic, symbiotic relationships that benefit the business owners and the students.

Tibbetts said the NCUCC has been so successful that it will be continued long beyond “COVID season.”

Brianna Taplin (left) displays some of the products her studentconsultants from the NCUCC helped her to market. A rebranded image (right)created by senior Shane Burroughs, who worked with Pure Seeds to advance product development efforts.

Lyndsey and Al Johnson needed help managing and expanding their social media presence for their wedding photography business. Junior Alexis Pitt stepped up to help. Making decisions based on research of best practices for the couple’s industry, Pitt set up a Pinterest account for their business and has been applying strategies to grow engagement on the platform.

While most of the students interact remotely with their clients, Pitt recently traveled to their area and had an opportunity to visit the owners. She found the on-site visit helped her better understand their business model and needs. Pitt and other students have found a benefit in

Alumni: Did you know that a gift of just $10 per month can make a huge impact for North Central students?

An alumni gift as part of Team 10 will combine your $10 per month commitment to the NCU Fund with gifts from hundreds—and soon thousands—of participating alums. Together, we can do so much to help today’s North Central students follow in our footsteps to become Christ followers, character builders, truth seekers, learners, reconcilers, and world changers.

Join us as we surround NCU students with love and support!

JOIN TEAM 10 TODAY! northcentral.edu/team10 Summer 2020 | 19

Photos by Isaiah Rustad

NCU serves as site for George Floyd memorial service Welcoming a grieving family and blessing the community On Thursday, June 4, North Central University hosted the Minneapolis Memorial Service of George Floyd, who was killed in Minneapolis police custody on May 25. North Central was asked to host the service because the family desired a faith-based, downtown location adequate to welcome a sizable number of guests.

In a message to NCU students, faculty, staff, and alumni, President Scott Hagan, Ph.D., said, “This request provides an opportunity for us to be a blessing to a hurting community. As a Christian university situated in the heart of Minneapolis, we are determined to be good citizens and good neighbors. Our hope is that our sanctuary will provide a space of welcome and warmth for Mr. Floyd’s loved ones and their guests during this time of remembrance and worship.”

delivered the invocation and also announced the creation of the George Floyd Memorial Scholarship, followed by a challenge to “every college and university president in the United States” to do the same.

In an essay entitled “Why a George Floyd Scholarship Is Good for American Higher Education” posted on LinkedIn and on NCU’s blog, Table Salt, the president reflected on the rationale for the scholarship and its potential impact. “[Challenging other universities to start a scholarship] would allow people to support the movement by donating to a college of their choice. The reaction was immediate and substantial. Several colleges and universities, including the University of Minnesota, the University of Utah, and Ohio University, have already responded positively.

“The backlash was also immediate. Some saw the scholarship appeal as academic blasphemy. Scholarships should be named after prodigies, not prodigals. In their eyes, George Floyd was a flawed emblem. ‘Why are you Chancellor Robyn Wilkerson, D.Min., President Scott immortalizing a felon?’ ‘Have you seen his rap sheet.’ ‘Stop Hagan, and Associate Professor Ellington Porter, M.A., were making George Floyd a martyr and a hero.’” asked by the Floyd family to participate in the service. Hagan In a separate interview, Hagan reflected, “I have spent my And the world was watching. More than 300 local, national, and international members of the media were on campus and the service was live streamed around the world.

20 | NCU Magazine

entire life as a leader being guided by 2 Kings 4:1–2, seeking to respond as Elisha did when faced with a monumental crisis. Elisha simply said to the woman, “How can I help?” I believed that in hosting the memorial service, North Central had an opportunity to provide a table of healing for a city in pain. Starting a scholarship provides an opportunity to redeem tragedy through educational generosity.”

“Certain scholarship programs are designed to honor achievements,” Hagan said in the blog post. “Others, like the George Floyd Scholarship, are designed to recognize significance. Nothing in my lifetime has caused us to reconsider our justice gaps like the passing of George Floyd. Historical and current issues of racial disparity and inequity at North Central, my own institution, have surfaced over the last two weeks requiring immediate care and attention. George Floyd has sparked a spectacular new American dialogue—one that is both personal and broadly educational. Sometimes the event itself becomes a key ‘talking point’ for a generation to come.”

At least 23 other colleges and universities have established scholarships since Hagan issued the challenge on June 4.

See related articles: Remembering George Floyd North Central University Establishes George Floyd Scholarship Fund Why a George Floyd Memorial Scholarship is Good for American Higher Education George Floyd Memorial Scholarship Fund Scenes from the George Floyd memorial service, held at North Central University on June 4, 2020. Opposite page: The casket was brought in prior to the service the Lindquist Sanctuary; above, right: Floyd’s cousin Shareeduh Tate and brother Philonise Floyd shared family stories; middle photos: crowds gathered calmly outside North Central buildings while the service took place inside; bottom: more than 300 members of the media from around the world were on campus for the first of three memorial services for Mr. Floyd.

Summer 2020 | 21

Alumni and faculty authors Congratulations to the following North Central University faculty and alumni who have recently published books!

Thurman Faison ’72

Alumnus; retired, from Teen Challenge and TV-38 in Chicago As Far as the East Is from the West (Independent, 2020) “What is the best hope for mankind, given the condition of the world we now live in?

Actually, it is ‘forgiveness.’ There is no way that man has hope without God’s forgiveness.

This book focuses on the unfolding of God’s intent to forgive man, regardless of his sins; if there is a change of heart, or simply a repentant state of mind. This book covers the lives of many individuals within the Scriptures who experienced the forgiveness of God after great and shocking acts of evil. It shows us that there is still hope for us today. For the Lord has said unto us, ‘Come now, let us reason together, says the LORD, Though your sins are like scarlet, They shall be as white as snow; Though they are red like crimson, They shall be as wool.’ ( Isaiah 1:18,19).” *

Lon Flippo, D.Min.

NCU Professor of Children and Family Ministries Flippo & the Miserable Meanies: A Penguin’s Survival Guide to Grade School (iParentnow, 2019) “Splash in a dash of red hair, add a scoop of miserable meanies, throw in a mysterious new friend, top it off with one seriously loose tooth and you have a very excited, nervous, scared, sad, worried, happy, loved day. Who knows what will happen tomorrow? Join Flippo the penguin as she survives grade school.”** The Satan Project (iParentnow, 2019) “Is it just a dream or has your worst nightmare come to life? Have you ever felt attacked on every side? ‘The Satan Project’ will open your eyes to the spiritual warfare all around us. In the story-telling tradition of Frank Peretti and Calvin Miller, Flippo spins a gripping and terrifying tale. Don’t miss this modern-day parable of Job that you won’t want to put down.”**

Roger Lane ’89,

Alumnus; Owner, Roger Lane Coaching; Former Vice President for Advancement at NCU Funded: A Leader’s Guide to Raising Money God’s Way (Bowker Identifier Services, 2019) “‘Funded’ presents the Prayer Path, a process … developed by Roger Lane in his 35 years’ experience partnering with church leaders in nearly 200 funding initiatives to see nearly $400 million raised for ministry. Through the Prayer Path’s seven phases—1) planning, 2) enlistment 3) information and communication, 4) education, 5) leadership giving, 6) congregational giving, and 7) follow-up—church leaders can raise the needed funding while at the same time creating a culture of generosity in their congregation.”*

Mark Stuberg ’09

Alumnus; business owner The River – Revealing the Heart of God and His Desire to Bless You (WestBow Press, 2018) “God’s desire is to pour Himself out unto us. The sheer magnitude of the outpouring of His blessing is absolutely enormous—much larger than you can imagine. But many of these blessings are being held back. But why and how? In this book, you will read of three prophetic encounters where I meet Jesus in the most amazing river. You will see what may be preventing the flow of God’s presence in your life, your family, and your church.

You will be challenged to rip down the wall of the dam that is holding back the flow of God’s amazing river. Get ready to jump into His river—the water is out of this world!”* 22 | NCU Magazine

*Source: Amazon.com

**Source: iParentnow.com

Santiago named next Alumni Board President Under the direction of outgoing Alumni Board President James Biffert ’95, ’17 M.A., the North Central Alumni Board was restructured two years ago to align with North Central’s four undergraduate colleges (College of Church Leadership, College of Fine Arts, College of Arts and Sciences, and College of Business and Technology).

The board structure includes representation from each academic area and reflects the various disciplines of NCU alumni.

Part of the restructure included the addition of term limits, so Biffert is stepping down and Rick Santiago ’99 has been named to serve as Alumni Board President for the 2020–2022 term. Biffert is confident that the board will be in good hands. “It has been a great privilege serving the NCU alumni these last five years,” Biffert said. “From my experiences I have discovered the incredible heritage and will this university possesses, to be an imposing force preparing men and women for the challenges this world faces. It is my distinct honor to pass on to Rick the baton to lead this impressive community of alumni. Also, thank you to the Alumni Board, Director of Alumni Relations Tabby Finton, the Executive Council, and President Hagan for their partnership in this great adventure.”

Santiago, Lead Pastor at Riverdale Church in Andover, MN, is married to Johanna (Johnson ’97) and they have seven children. He has served on the Alumni Board Executive Council as the College of Church Leadership Representative for the past two years and is thrilled for this new opportunity. “I am incredibly humbled at the opportunity to serve as the Alumni Board President for my alma mater,” Santiago said. “I look forward to carrying on what has been established by those who have served before me.”

Is your profile up to date?

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January 26-February 4, 2022

Visit northcentral.edu/alumni/update or call 612.343.4400 to share: »

Current contact information

»

Wedding, birth, and adoption announcements

»

Significant accomplishments and updates

»

Prayer requests (not published, but prayed for)

Updates submitted to Alumni Relations are considered for publication in NCU Magazine based on available space. Submissions may be edited for style, brevity, and clarity. Publication does not indicate an endorsement of any individual or organization.

You’re invited on a life-changing journey to the Holy Land, where the Bible will unfold before your very eyes. Explore the origins of your faith, how to embody that faith here in the present, and how to pass it on to the next generation.

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Visit HolyLandsStudies.org/ncualumni to get started!

Summer 2020 | 23

Alumni Updates 1960s

1980s

Margaret Copley ’61 serves as a volunteer pastor at Aitkin, MN, Heritage Assembly of God . She was ordained as a pastor in 2017.

Joel Copple ’80 retired from fulltime ministry in 2018, but remains in Cambodia to serve in various ministries.

Beverly (Paulsen ’69) Maxted is a retired law-office administrative assistant who has served in pastoral ministry for 45 years with her husband. They have three children and seven grandchildren.

Richard Gruber ’81 served 18.5 years as a professor of children and family studies at the University of Valley Forge and recently moved into a children’s pastorate in Waverly, IA. He and his wife, Darlene, have four children and twelve grandchildren.

1970s

John Roe ’81 is Director of International Ministries at Waupaca Family Ministries and also serves as a Chaplain at the Wisconsin Veterans Home in Waupaca, WI.

Sherrie (Hansen ’88) Aman is raising four sons, ages 14 to 25, since her husband passed away. Completing a nursing degree after North Central, She has been on several short-term medical mission trips.

Brad Trask ’84 and his wife, Rhonda, were featured in AG News in February for their work with their church’s adoption ministry, Heart’s CRI. Brad has been pastoring Brighton (MI) Assembly of God since 1992 and serves as a member of the AG Executive Presbytery.

1990s

Virginia (Paulson) Carlson Virginia (Paulson ’70) Carlson served two years as Administrator at St. Paul City Church after retirement from H.B. Fuller. She also served 1.5 years at Metro Hope Ministries in Minneapolis before marrying Don Carlson and moving to Massachusetts and later to Sun City, AZ. She and her husband have been involved with Gideons International since 2009.

Mark Olson Mark Olson ’85 is Lead Pastor at The Fountain of Life, Phoenix, and his wife, Teresa (Mickelson ’89), serves as the Executive Pastor. They moved to Phoenix from Minnesota, where they had served in ministry at Mt. Olivet in Apple Valley since 1988. They have two grown children (both NCU alums) and two grandchildren.

24 | NCU Magazine

John Carter ’98 works as the Officer in Charge of the Navy and Marine Corps activity at Arlington National Cemetery. His office is responsible for over 2,000 burials a year at our nation’s most sacred shrine to military service and he leads a team of military chaplains and civilian clergy to provide chapel and committal services with and without military honors. He sees it as a privilege to share the Gospel with people who often wouldn’t make their way into a church.

Heather Wilson ’98 is serving as a Human Resources Recruiter for International Justice Mission (IJM).

James Smith James Smith ’71 retired in 2011 after serving churches in Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont, and for 11 years as an area minister for the ABC/VNH working with churches in transition or crisis. Since retirement, has served as interim pastor in four churches. He and his wife, Sharon, have been married 53 years and have three grown children and six grandchildren.

John Carter

Richard Baker Richard Baker ’86 completed his 22nd year with Minnesota Youth Alive and said it has been a joy to see student campus leaders become missionaries, pastors, youth pastors, worship leaders and business leaders around the world.

2000s Nick Puccini ’00 and his wife, Olivia (Linnewah ’01), have been in missions since 2002, serving eight years in Armenia, and now in Estonia. In 2018, they accepted the role as Area Directors for a Eurasia Northwest.

Alumni Updates

Kim (Burton) Reyes Kim (Burton ’02) Reyes announces her marriage to Elias Reyes. They live in North Wales, PA, where she is an Executive Assistant for TNTP, Inc.

Amanda (Gallant ’00) Schmock has been active in musical theatre in Central Wisconsin, acting and directing for Tomah Area Community theatre, the Tomah Area School District, and Lighthouse Assembly of God church in Tomah.

Kristen (Andersen ’04) Browns is working at Home Instead as a professional caregiver. She is caregiver for her mother, who is in hospice with late-stage Alzheimer’s. In May, Kristen completed her Master of Divinity in Missional Leadership from Northwest Nazarene University, with plans to obtain a Clinical Pastoral Residency next fall.

Lisa (Erspamer ’01) Berg has been married to Benjamin for 17 years. They live in the Milwaukee area and have two daughters. Lisa is a worship leader at Bridge Church in Waukesha.

Gena Ross ’05 is running for U.S. Congress, Missouri 6th Congressional District. Ross was recently featured in a television news story as a COVID-19 survivor.

Amanda (Gallant) Schmock

Colette (Christmas’ 01) Daramola studied nursing at Wayne State University (Michigan) and worked as a nurse in the Emergency Department of an inner-city hospital. She and her husband have three children and are active in their local church.

Joshua Windham

Karie (Wuerffel) Pitts Karie (Wuerffel ’01) Pitts and her husband have accepted a full-time missions assignment with African Bible Colleges and will be moving to Kampala, Uganda to work at African Bible University.

Joshua Windham ’06 has worked as the Volunteer Services Manager at the Union Gospel Mission Twin Cities for the past five years. He and his wife, Naomi, have two children and live in South Minneapolis.

Devona Jackson Devona Jackson ’07 was promoted in December to Children and Young Learners’ Curriculum Developer and Editor at IDP Education (Cambodia).

She was also selected to represent the 16th Annual CamTESOL Conference on English Language Training in Phnom Penh in February.

Dave Mowers Dave Mowers ’07 was recognized by the Governor of Wisconsin during the State of the State address for Mowers’ work in Baraboo, WI, building a homeless shelter from the ground up and filling a critical need in their community. Mowers organized a group of local clergy to address the often unseen problem of rural homelessness.

Miranda (Warner ’08) Boyd has been in her position as the SNAP & MNsure Coordinator for Catholic Charities for the past 3.5 years. In September 2019 she began studies in the Master of Social Work program at University of St. Thomas.

Zack ’08 and Jenni (Busse ’08) Kahmeyer welcomed Alexander Thomas Kahmeyer on May 1, 2020.

Zack recently completed his MBA in Healthcare Administration from University of St. Thomas and is working at Bright Health.

Summer 2020 | 25

Alumni Updates 2010s

Caleb and Harmonee (Kolenda ) Wampler Caleb ’10 and Harmonee (Kolenda ’12) Wampler are the founders of Kingdom Encounters International (KEI), which began its evangelistic work in 2017. They have witnessed incredible miracles and healings and have seen lives changed by the power of the Gospel, with 250,000+ people making a decision to follow Jesus. The Wamplers live in the Orlando, FL, area with their three children.

Kelsey (Bjorkman) Daggett Kelsey (Bjorkman ’12) Daggett and her husband, Timothy, welcomed Dorothy Joy on Sept. 5, 2019. Kelsey teaches ASL part-time at a homeschool co-op.

Emily (Fishel) O’Rourke Emily (Fishel ’12) O’Rourke and her husband, Nick, welcomed Hannah in October 2019; she joins Noah.

Sam and Jackie (Trieb) Luthi Sam ’09 and Jackie (Trieb ’11) Luthi welcomed Abrielle in July 2019; she joins Evelyn and Sophia. They moved to the northwest side of Ohio in October to become lead pastors of First Assembly in Bryan.

26 | NCU Magazine

Bethany (Bostrom ’13) Soye is running for South Dakota State Representative, District 9.

Michael and Brooke (Christensen) Taylor Michael Taylor ’13 has written and recorded a full-length album, “Humble Feet.” The album was voted as the number one Independent Release of the Year for 2019. Michael hopes to use this momentum to awaken God’s people to the need for the Gospel among the nations. He and his wife, Brooke (Christensen ’12) are preparing to return to ministry in Cairo, Egypt as career missionaries with the Assemblies of God. Jeff Brown ’13 serves part-time in as Youth/Assistant pastor at Faith Assembly of God in Pine River, MN. He is employed full time through Pine River-Backus schools as a paraprofessional.

Jennifer (Urban ’13) Momenee and her husband, Tom, welcomed Miles Duane on January 14, 2020. She is working with The Dwelling Place Network and Ohio Ministry Network to plant a church in Ottawa, OH.

Alumni Updates Mariah Simonson ’14 works as Assistant Director of Youth and Family Ministries at Camp Lebanon in Upsala, MN.

In Memory North Central University extends condolences to the families of these NCU community members who have passed away.

Warren “Bud” Abbott ’45 of New Hope, MN, on April 28, 2020.

Spencer Wentland Spencer Wentland ’13 moved back to Japan in March 2019 for the third time and second time as a missionary. He is accompanying the Japan Evangelical Lutheran Church in ministries of English teaching and congregational mission and leadership.

Chelsea (Olson ’14) Matvey is a Personal Trainer for Snap Fitness.

She and her husband, Jeremy ’11, live in Sauk Centre, MN, with their two children, and volunteer in worship, leadership, and discipleship ministries at their church.

Nimrod Anderson ’48 of Wisconsin Rapids, WI, on March 21, 2020.

Philip and Ashley (Blum) Furnish Philip ’17 and Ashley (Blum ’14) Furnish welcomed Wesley James on Oct. 4, 2019; he joins Theodore.

Paul Sundell ’50 of Eden Prairie, MN, on March 9, 2020 Glenyce (Salseth ’51) Doorn of Ocoee, FL, on Oct. 28, 2019.

Irvin O. Espeseth ’55 of Parsons, KS, on April 10, 2020.

Dennis P. McHatton ’65 of Springfield, IL, on Feb. 21, 2019.

Austin Carlson Abigail and Austin Carlson ’18 were married on March 8, 2020.

Jaclyn (Anderson) and Matthew Schmeichel Jaclyn (Anderson ’17) and Matthew Schmeichel ’15 were married in Eden Prairie, MN. They live in Burnsville, MN, where Jaclyn works as a choral director at Burnsville High School and Matt is pursuing a career as a Corporate Trainer.

Micah Pennington ’20 NCU student, of Nairobi, Kenya, on Jan. 11, 2020.

Sebastian Hearne ’18 works as a substance abuse counselor for the Chisago County Jail. He provides judicial clients with strategies to prevent relapsing into problematic alcohol and drug use and criminal conduct.

Summer 2020 | 27

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