NCU Magazine Fall 2016 Issue

Fall 2016

The Magazine of North Central University

EMBRACING LIFE’S CONSTANT Times change, we change, God never changes

LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT Our theme for this issue is Embracing life’s constant. You’ll read stories of God’s faithfulness, and staying steady through change. I've seen many changes in my own life.

My mother was born in a one-room cabin on a homestead in western Nebraska. No plumbing, no electricity. I was born in a nearby town, but lived in the small house that replaced the cabin. We had electricity, but still an outdoor toilet, and no phone.

Pastor Rob Ketterling wrote a great book, the essence of which is in the title: Change Before You Have To. Perfectly good advice, seldom heeded. Why? Because our patterns of life are so deeply ingrained that even when they no longer work, people hang on to them.

But God is a God of constant change. Not His foundational principles—these never change—but the means and methods of being a Christian in a rapidly changing world.

Next summer my wife, Dianne, and I will retire after 35 years at NCU. It’s been great, and we’ve seen lots of change. Not the foundational principles—these never change—but the means and methods of educating young people in a rapidly changing world do change. We are a Pentecostal school, based on the Bible, centered on Christ. That doesn’t change. But the world does, and we continually make adjustments to be effective in the world that’s emerging.

Changes I’ve seen at North Central? Well, the neighborhood for one. Elliot Park today is nothing like it was many years ago. And the campus, too. The school occupied only one building when it moved to Elliot Park in 1936, but we now own nearly 10 acres of downtown property. Who would have thought?

Our curriculum has also developed to meet new needs. For example, in partnership with AGWM, NCU has developed the Antioch Center to prepare students to reach the world’s most unreached people using new methods to tell the old, old story. Apostolic church planting teams are being prepared for work overseas and in America. It’s new, it’s effective, and it’s good.

I want to thank all the friends and supporters of NCU for their constant help and encouragement as the school has continually dealt with challenges presented by a world in flux.

And may the great creator God continue His creative work in the world, and may He help us to keep up with His program!

Sincerely,

NCU Magazine Fall 2016 North Central University 910 Elliot Avenue Minneapolis, MN 55404 612.343.4400 Administration President Gordon Anderson, Ph.D. Vice President, Business & Finance Joy Brathwaite, MBA Vice President, University Relations Andrew Denton, Ph.D. Vice President, Spiritual Life Doug Graham ’86, D.Min. Vice President, Academic Affairs Don Tucker, Ed.D. Editorial Nancy Zugschwert, Editor Sara Schwalbe, Lead Designer Julian Flores ’14, Lead Photographer All photos by Julian Flores unless noted.

Contributors Tracey Finck, M.A. Erica Hanson ’13 Janelle Higdon Judy Jones Madison Norman ’20 Aimee (Perrin ’97) Robertson Emily Robertson Bill Tibbetts, MBA Contact Office of Communications communications@northcentral.edu 612.343.5001 University Relations universityrelations@northcentral.edu 612.343.4743 Alumni alumni@northcentral.edu 612.343.4143 Admissions admissions@northcentral.edu 800.289.6222 NCU Magazine is produced by the University Relations Offices of Communications and Marketing and mailed free of charge to alumni, donors, and friends of North Central University.

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.

Ephesians 4:11-12 Copyright © 2016 North Central University All Rights Reserved

Gordon Anderson, Ph.D. President northcentral.edu

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IN THIS ISSUE Fall 2016

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Campus News »» Act Six scholars begin journey »» Academic highlights »» New academic structure »» Mission-minded university »» Bama goes abroad

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Athletics »» Women’s basketball goes ‘all in’ »» Gym floor gets new look

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Features »» The changing face of East Town »» God has done tremendous things:

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The life and legacy of an unlikely president

»» Introducing the next ‘Greatest Generation’ »» Discovering my calling in story and art »» The transforming power of mentorship »» Seeing where Jesus walked »» When everything changes

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Alumni News »» Meet your alumni board »» Then and now »» Class updates »» Acts 13 Scholarship

ON THE COVER: President Gordon Anderson with wife, Dianne. Photo by Julian Flores ’14

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Act Six scholars begin NCU journey Seven new North Central students came to campus this fall with a mission: to engage the college campus and their communities at home. The seven make up the first cadre of Act Six scholars—emerging urban and community leaders identified and selected through a rigorous application and interview process last spring.

In partnership with Urban Ventures and four Minnesota colleges and universities, Act Six is a leadership and scholarship program that equips emerging urban and community leaders through a simple but powerful four-part strategy: »» RECRUIT AND SELECT Locally recruit and select diverse, multicultural cadres of a region’s most promising urban and community student leaders. »» TRAIN AND PREPARE Intensively train these groups of students in the year prior to college, equipping them to support each other, succeed academically, and grow as serviceminded leaders and agents of transformation.

NCU ACT SIX SCHOLARS Top Row (L to R): Josue Boutouli, Juliann Cole, Edwin Quinon, Alexandra Rodriguez.

Bottom Row (L to R): Josh Rodriguez, Peneal Tiruneh, Matthew Vang.

Learn more at northcentral.edu/actsix

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»» SEND AND FUND Send the teams together to faith-and social justice-based colleges and universities that provide full-tuition, full-need scholarships. »» SUPPORT AND INSPIRE Provide strong campus support, ongoing leadership development and vocational connections to inspire scholars to serve their home communities.

Bill Green, M.A., director of multicultural recruitment and community engagement, oversees NCU’s Act Six program. After an orientation day in June, Green noted, “The day was significant to the message and mission for both Act Six and NCU. We are excited about their future as scholars and leaders in common unity—‘comm-unity’—at North Central.”

Before the seven students arrived on campus in August, they had participated in months of intense coursework and leadership development activities; they’re prepared to pursue NCU leadership opportunities and lead effectively as participants in any classroom or activity.

The Act Six model was pioneered in the Pacific Northwest 10 years ago, preparing students for both short-term and long-term success. The time they spend together prior to their college experience teaches them to lead, and the leadership they bring at the outset of their college career prepares them to quickly become contributors to the university community.

Photos by Madison Norman ’20

Learning to lead, leading to learn

NCU welcomes the Class of 2020 New students began their NCU experience during Welcome Week, Aug. 27–30. Highlights of the week included “Super Saturday” move-in day with alumni soccer games, a student-parent ice cream social, an official welcome from President Gordon Anderson, and orientation sessions for students and parents. Sunday featured the Academic Convocation and more student activities, then returning students joined the newcomers for Monday’s Funky Night and Tuesday night’s Block Party. Classes began on August 31.

Miller Hall entrance gets facelift A renovation project for the Miller Hall main campus entrance in August represented a collaboration between five campus departments to beautify one of the most visible parts of campus. Coordinated by Facilities Management, the project included installation of a stamped concrete entrance providing a more uniform slope for accessibility, new door hardware, an LED light fixture, and polishing of the stone on the walls under the arch.

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Academic highlights

New arrivals and notable activities of NCU faculty 1. Renea Brathwaite, Ph.D. (Graduate Studies), joined NCU as director of graduate and creative education.

He holds a Ph.D. from Regent University (Va.), where he was a presidential scholar and received both the Outstanding Graduate and Distinguished Graduate awards. Brathwaite has taught at Evangel University, Malone University, Regent University, and Hosanna Bible Training Center, and served as the dean of the Ohio School of Ministry.

2. Jeff Deyo (Worship Arts) spearheaded the 9th annual Pure Worship event in June, which features classes, recording sessions, workshops, and daily worship. Deyo also attended the Assemblies of God National Fine Arts Festival (NFAF) in Louisville, Ky., and has been asked to lead worship next year for NFAF, in conjunction with the AG General Conference in Anaheim, Calif.

3. Jonathan Friesen, M.A. (Education), has done more than 17 conference presentations during the past year, including a keynote address entitled, “Mental Health and Learning: The Unseen Connection,” for the Singapore Writing Festival in Singapore. He is sought after for his expertise in writing, education, and mental health.

4. Connie (Freitag ’98) Gayle, Ed.D. (Education), was awarded her Doctor of Education in Reading and Literacy Leadership from Capella University (Minn.) in August. Last spring, Gayle was named to a fouryear term as president of the Minnesota Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (MACTE).

5. Jonathon Heide ’03, M.A. (Communication Arts), attended the Association for Education in 6 | NCU Magazine

Journalism and Mass Communications (AEJMC) national conference in Minneapolis. There, he made connections with Google’s News Lab team and formed a partnership with Banjo, a social media GPS firm, to benefit journalism students.

6. Greg Leeper, M.A. (Institutional Effectiveness and Research), was named director of institutional effectiveness and research. Most recently, Leeper served as dean of students for student engagement and experiential learning. He has been part of North Central’s assessment team and accreditation team and is an adjunct instructor. Previously Leeper worked at Trinity International University (Ill.).

7. Judy Pruitt, M.A. (Library), is the new director of library services for the T.J. Jones Memorial Library at NCU. Pruitt served for the past eight years as a collection management and public services librarian for the Daniel Boone Regional Library in Columbia, Mo. She holds an M.A. in library science from the University of Missouri-Columbia, and a B.A. in psychology from Sangamon State University (Ill.).

Pruitt has also worked as a private school teacher and principal in Illinois, Guam, and Missouri.

8. Chaka Ward-Hatcher, D.H.S. (Social and Behavioral Sciences), has joined North Central as assistant professor of Social and Behavioral Sciences. WardHatcher’s background combines clinical pastoral education, clinical counseling, and health services. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Valdosta State University (Ga.), a master’s in counseling from Johns Hopkins (Md.), and doctorate in health sciences from Nova Southeastern University (Fla.).

New academic structure maximizes resources and opportunities College of Arts and Sciences

The College of Arts and Sciences (CAS), under the leadership of Dean Ron Jewett, Ph.D., prepares students to lead and minister in the marketplace by offering a well-rounded liberal arts education through programs in business, the humanities, education, and more. CAS includes the following departments and schools: School of Business

Department of Computer Science School of Education

Department of Math & Science School of Social & Behavioral Sciences & Comm. Arts

Department of Carlstrom ASL-Interpreting

Department of Communication Arts

Department of English

Department of Psychology

Department of Social Work

College of Church Leadership

Ron Jewett, Ph.D.

Doug Graham, D.Min.

The College of Church Leadership (CCL) is a consolidation of missions, ministry, and biblical and theological studies. Under the leadership of Doug Graham ’86, D.Min., who serves both as dean of the CCL and vice president for spiritual life, the CCL equips students for vocational ministry paths through three schools: School of Biblical and Theological Studies School of Intercultural Studies School of Pastoral Studies

College of Fine Arts

The College of Fine Arts (CFA), under the leadership of Dean Larry Bach, M.M., prepares passionate, spiritual leaders for careers and service in the fine arts. CFA programs include music, music business, worship, recording, theatre, and more, operating under one of two schools:

Larry Bach, M.M.

School of Music and Theatre School of Worship Arts

School of Graduate Studies

The School of Graduate Studies, under the direction of Renae Brathwaite, Ph.D., prepares students to be leaders in business, church, or the mission field through the Master of Arts in Strategic Leadership.

Renae Brathwaite, Ph.D. Fall 2016 | 7

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Pictured (L to R): Shelby (Norman ’15) Mossman, new YWAM missionary in Canada; Davonne Cottrell ’16, headed to Ethiopia with SIM; senior Deshann Sanchez, headed to Cairo, Egypt with Live Dead; Erin Vetters ’16; Pa Nyia Thao ’16, works for Americorp at Community of Peace, St. Paul; senior Casey Benish, who spent last summer in Uganda interning with Mission: Moving Mountains.

NCU ranks high as #2 mission–minded university North Central University was ranked second by Christian Universities Online among “The 50 Most Mission Minded Christian Colleges and Universities for 2016.”

According to Christian Universities Online, “This ranking focuses on those schools and college programs that are mindful of this calling and exist to prepare and equip students for this purpose of evangelism and discipleship. Each school is mindful of Christ’s call to make disciples and is playing an active part in raising up missionaries for this cause.”

In addition to regularly sending graduates into fulltime missions, NCU provides students with abundant opportunities to get involved. The Co:Mission ministry leads multiple teams of students on shortterm mission trips each year. These trips are available to students from all majors and provide valuable insight and experience for serving in diverse cultural settings. In 2015–16, NCU students and faculty traveled to Turkey, Lebanon, Uganda, Costa Rica, Thailand, 8 | NCU Magazine

China, India, Israel, Nicaragua, Chicago, Greece, Macedonia, Honduras, and the Dominican Republic.

Students preparing for vocational mission work learn from faculty who are missions veterans such as Bob Brenneman, Ph.D., and Nan Muhovich, Ph.D., of the Department of Intercultural Studies (ICS) in the newly formed College of Church Leadership (see article page 7).

The top five institutions on the list were: 1. Liberty University (Va.) 2. North Central University (Minn.)

3. Colorado Christian University (Colo.)

4. Geneva College (Pa.) 5. Southeastern University (Fla.) The complete listing is available online at christianuniversitiesonline.org/missionminded-christian-colleges-2016.

Philippi, Greece – @evelynnmae

Jerusalem, Israel – @ktown1311

Washington D.C. – @emilymeade123

Chicago – @kgrandville

Dominician Republic – @y4nnin

Uganda – @bethanikayleejo

Thessaloniki, Greece – @evelynnmae

Israel – @ktown1311

Petra, Jordan – @sarrann

Bama goes abroad A special stowaway traveled with students, faculty, and staff this summer as they went around the world for mission trips and summer adventures: Bama the ram mascot! Bama traveled abroad to Israel, Dominican Republic, Uganda, Greece, Nicaragua, Ukraine, Jordan, Macedonia, and Amsterdam and even made some domestic stops in Chicago and Washington, D.C. Bama’s escapades were chronicled through photos on social media. Of course, while he was having fun, NCU students experienced rich service and learning opportunities. See more of the adventures on Instagram — ­ #bamagoesabroad.

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NCU ATHLETICS

In face of change, women’s basketball team goes ‘all in’

By Greg Johnson, MOL Less than four hours before the team’s first practice of the 2015–16 season, Paul Brunner ’14 accepted the job of NCU interim head women’s basketball coach. An unexpected staff departure created the void for the women’s team and Brunner, already on staff full time as recreation and wellness coordinator and assistant men’s basketball coach, rose to the occasion when asked to take on this new role.

It was a little unsettling for the women to have such a significant late-in-the-game change, but Brunner was committed to making sure this change would not adversely impact the players.

The experience pushed Brunner out of his comfort zone but toward his goals.

Coach Paul Brunner

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“Coming in right away in that circumstance was difficult,” Brunner said. “For me, not knowing anything about the team,

NCU ATHLETICS and for them, not knowing anything about me. At our first practice it was basically: ‘I’m coach Paul. Who are you?’”

Notable results

The team’s hard work paid off in multiple ways: »» The Rams won the National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA) North Central region tournament, advancing to and ultimately placing fifth at the national tournament in Joplin, Mo.

Brunner immediately instituted a team motto of “all-in,” describing the expectation that each team member—and 100 percent of her effort—played a vital role in team success. Taking a page from his own high school basketball coach, Brunner adopted a binder system for players to compile daily notes from practice, film study, team devotions, etc.

»» Five team members surpassed the individual 3.5 grade point average requirement to earn Upper Midwest Athletic Conference (UMAC) Academic All-Conference honors.

Daily focus

The daily talk between coach and team members included three questions: What do we want our program to be about?

What do we want people to recognize and know us for?

What’s important to us as a program?

Brunner noted that they arrived readily at emphasizing the importance of faith, a family environment, strong academics, and basketball—in that order.

»» The NCU program placed 10th in NCAA Division III in the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association’s Top 25 Team Honor Roll with a 3.56 composite GPA. Brunner’s place as the program leader was solidified and the “interim” tag was removed from his title.

Greg Johnson, MOL, is director of athletics for North Central University

The team explored themes of effort, workmanship, community outreach, and faith throughout the season of transition.

FOR MORE ATHLETIC UPDATES VISIT

NCURAMS.COM

Emily Robertson

Looking down to see…the skyline?

A new and improved look for the ClarkDanielson Gymnasium floor was unveiled in June after changes to NCAA women’s basketball regulations called for new lines on the courts.

Since the changes would require completely repainting the floor, NCU Athletics worked with a designer and contractor, along with NCU housekeeping and facilities staff, to redo the floor and add secondary volleyball court lines to accommodate practices. The new floor design includes NCU’s signature skyline and Rams logo.

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The changing face of ‘East Town’ The landscape of North Central’s backyard has changed dramatically in recent years. The east side of downtown Minneapolis, recently rebranded as “East Town,” represents a 100-block area, bordered by the Mississippi River, Interstate 35W, Interstate 94, and 5th Avenue South.

One of the largest—and oldest—footprints in the area is represented by North Central University. East Town enfolds both the Elliot Park and Downtown East neighborhoods, and includes a new Wells Fargo corporate campus called the Fargo Towers, the new U.S. Bank Stadium, light-rail access, and new apartments, hotels, and businesses.

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One of the most scenic additions to East Town is The Commons, two blocks and 4.2 acres of public green space on Portland Avenue, next to U.S. Bank Stadium.

In anticipation of the 2018 Super Bowl LII, 2019 NCAA Final Four, and the consecutive 2017 and 2018 X Games, the zone surrounding U.S. Bank Stadium will be fully utilized by tourists from around the world.

North Central University’s neighborhood and the City of Minneapolis provide a vibrant backdrop for education as East Town and the city continue to grow.

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East Town points of interest

1. U.S. Bank Stadium

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2. Transit Plaza/Light Rail

12. NCU - Miller Hall

3. The Commons Park

13. NCU - Comm. Center and Praise FM

4. Hennepin County Medical Center (HCMC)

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5. New HCMC Outpatient Clinic

15. NCU - Trask Word & Worship Center

6. NCU - Del Kingsriter Center

16. NCU - Carlson Hall

7. NCU - Elliot East Apartments

17. NCU - T.J. Jones Library

8. NCU - Centennial Hall

18. Augustana Care Center

9. NCU - Bookstore and Chicago Hall

19. Elliot Park

10. NCU - Orfield Apartments

20. NCU - Mensing Hall

NCU properties not pictured: Liechty Hall and other campus apartments.

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GOD HAS DONE TREMENDOUS THINGS The life and legacy of an unlikely president

By Nancy Cawley Zugschwert

By all accounts, including his own, Gordon Anderson, Ph.D., was an unlikely candidate for college president. In a recent chapel service before a full house of students, Anderson shared his testimony and what it means to be a person called by God for the longterm trajectory of life.

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Through stories and pictures, Anderson walked the students through events of his life that didn’t exactly add up to him being a ringer when it came time to select a new president for North Central in 1995.

In “ancient history,” Anderson’s roots include a great-grandfather who was a cattle rustler and a grandfather on the other side who was “a brawler and a drinker.” The story changed when Christ entered the picture and both grandfathers were saved as adults.

This story-change allowed Anderson to grow up in a Christian home, and at a church service at age 7, in the midst of “battle-hardened, rapture-ready, godly people,” he recounted, “I bowed down as Jesus came into my heart.”

His salvation secured his eternity, but it didn’t secure a trouble-free life on earth. “From that time forward I had a bumpy ride,” Anderson told the students. “We moved 14 times in my first 14 years, and I went to nine different schools.

Out of that came some issues— being rootless, unconnected.”

In 11th grade, Anderson’s issues caused behavior that got him kicked out of high school. He did come back, and when he graduated the next year, he was 701st out of 711 in

his graduating class. Somehow he got into college, where in time he discovered, “If I went to class and studied a bit, I could get good grades.”

tell you how. Earthly instincts are in all of us and I understand.

I also understand the Gospel, sanctification, and the Holy Spirit.”

Slow change

These things, which Gordon Anderson has come to understand so well, have surely shaped his presidency.

Discovering good lifestyle choices took a little longer. “I believe I was still saved, but I was not sanctified,” Anderson reflected, “and from a distance people would’ve hardly believed I was a Christian.”

But things changed when Anderson was called into the ministry and back into the fellowship. He married Dianne and attended Azusa Pacific and Vanguard. He graduated with a B.A. and went to seminary.

While serving as a pastor in Oregon, he continued his education, earning another B.A. (philosophy) and an M.A. (history). While teaching at North Central he earned his Ph.D. in Ancient Studies in 1986 from the University of Minnesota.

“And I’m now Dr. Gordon Anderson,” he told the students, “instead of the person who started.”

“But what is this story about?” he asked. “If anyone is going to boast, boast in the Lord. If you want to succeed, I can tell you how. If you want to fail, I can

1982–83 Anderson’s first year teaching at North Central University

Through nearly 35 years at NCU— first as professor and then as president since 1995—Anderson has left an impressive mark on North Central, the city of Minneapolis, and the Assemblies of God. When acknowledging the 10-year mark of Anderson’s presidency in fall 2005, NCU Magazine identified North Central’s iconic leader as “Pastor.

Preacher. Professor. Missionary.

Administrator. President. Friend.”

With Anderson’s anticipated retirement on June 1, 2017, it is fitting to look once again at the impact he has had through each of these roles.

Pastor, preacher

From 1970 to 1982, Anderson served in roles as assistant pastor at Lakewood Assembly of God (Lakewood, Colo.), senior pastor at Chapel of the Plains Assembly of God (Stoneham, Ore.), and senior pastor at Life Center Assembly of God (Portland, Ore.). Anderson was

1987–88

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ANDERSON CAREER MILESTONES 1983–84

1983–84

1982

Joins faculty of N orth Central Bible College t o teach philosophy and history

1986

Adds “Dr.” to his title, earning his Ph.D. in Ancient Studies from the University of Minnesota

1989

1983-84 NCU Pastoral Studies Department (L to R) Don Meyer, James Allen (Department Chairman), Ian Hall, Wiliam Crew, Debbie Menken, Ernest Freeman, David Owen, and Gordon Anderson

Found and lead the G. Raymond Carlson Institute for Church Leadership, North Central’s distance education program

Campus expansion and improvement in the Anderson Era »» Phillipps Hall »» Word & Worship Center »» Carlson Hall and Cafeteria »» Miller Hall »» Chicago Hall »» Elliot East, 901 Building,

1993

Is appointed as director of the Eurasia Office of the Assemblies of God Division of World Missions

2006

and other apartments »» Mensing Hall »» Liechty Hall »» 1400 Chicago Avenue »» 908 Centennial Parking Lot

1995

Is inaugurated as sixth president of North Central Bible College

Total capital improvements and property acquisition in the Anderson presidency:

$35,830,590 The Andersons

Acknowledgments: Chris Woelfle ’00, institutional history research; Susan G. Detlefsen, “A Decade of Leadership,” NCU Magazine fall 2005; T.J. Jones Library archive photos.

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Bottom row (L to R): Daughter-in-law Lindsay, son Cam, Dianne, and Gordon Top row (L to R): Grandsons Blake and Brayden

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ordained by the General Council of the Assemblies of God in 1973.

While a professor, Anderson became a prolific writer of articles and books. He published his first Professor book, Orphans and Kings, in 1986, a In 1982 Anderson and his wife, Dianne, discourse on God’s involvement in the felt he was being led to search for development of the life of a Christian. a college teaching position. North Central, in need of a professor Anderson did a weekly 30-minute who could teach philosophy and radio program for WIBI and affiliates history, received his inquiry and in Illinois from 1991–1995, and had invited him to interview; he joined an audio teaching ministry in the the college faculty that same year. cassette tape era. For decades he has been in demand as a camp, retreat and “Teaching fit my makeup and seminar speaker. He served on the my living style,” Anderson said.

National Commission for Doctrinal Purity in the Assemblies of God and “which is a questioning style of on the Theology Committee of the conceptualizing, thinking.”

National Association of Evangelicals.

Apparently the style worked.

Anderson’s classes were popular and Missionary as he continued to teach well into Perhaps a lesser known role for his presidency, he demonstrated Anderson was that of missionary. In the ability to captivate students and the early 1990s, the Assemblies of engage their minds at an exciting God World Mission (AGWM) needed level. In May 2016, Josh Smedsrud educators to help new Bible colleges ’15 was the first student to earn that were emerging after the fall of the North Central’s Master of Arts in Berlin Wall and subsequent decline Strategic Leadership. Anderson of communism in Eastern Europe. taught the first graduate course, of which Smedsrud said, “Hearing Dr. Anderson was named director of Anderson, reading about leadership, the EurAsia Education Office, and and putting terms to what I really in 1993 he and Dianne moved to enjoy doing made me come alive.”

Brussels to work with the leaders

of Bible schools in the Pentecostal Union and the Apostolic church.

The Andersons traveled 25,000 miles by car to cities across the continent, working with national church leaders and educators to help establish Bible colleges and schools as functioning, accredited entities.

Dianne Anderson recounted this time: “The wall had just come down, and the Bible schools were just opening.

These people were wonderful Christians, but they had no Bible school training and rarely had a Bible in front of them under communism.

I remember sitting in a restaurant in East Berlin with some friends.

They were crying because they were so excited. They never expected this freedom to come so quickly.”

President

The Andersons were anticipating an expansion of their mission duties in Europe when they heard that Don Argue had resigned as North Central’s fifth president to serve as president of the National Association of Evangelicals. They were surprised when they received a call from the North Central Board of Regents informing them that Gordon had been nominated as the next president of North Central.

President Anderson recalled, “The nomination came as a surprise, but we immediately sensed a divine leading and were open to consideration for the post.”

Anderson began serving on an interim basis in spring 1995, and his inauguration as North Central’s sixth president was on Oct. 27, 1995.

In many ways, “president” represents the culmination and inclusion of all the roles Anderson held on the way to this point in the journey.

Past and "future" presidents (L to R): Don Argue, Gordon Anderson, and G. Raymond Carlson

He has continued as pastor, and his flock is 1,200 students and the faculty and staff who serve them.

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He is ever the preacher. Students try hard not to miss chapel on Fridays because Dr. Anderson is preaching.

As president, he is a sender of missionaries, as 300 NCU graduates each year enter a mission field where they serve as pastors, teachers, musicians, youth workers, worship leaders, business people, entrepreneurs, social workers, communicators, and yes, even missionaries. These students are, in Anderson’s words, “both Spirit-empowered and professionally competent,” ready to do with excellence the work God calls them to do.

Friend

Anderson has acquired an abundance of true friends who look to him as a reliable example of what it means to “walk the talk” of one who professes faith in Jesus Christ.

Reflecting on his years as Anderson’s associate and friend, Clarence St. John, superintendent of the Minnesota District of the Assemblies of God, expressed his appreciation of Anderson: “Thanks for leading with character; thanks for leading with passion.”

The person Anderson identifies as the one friend who has been with him every step of his journey is his wife, Dianne. Dianne helped create NCU’s WOVEN neighborhood music outreach program that continues to this day. As they approach their 49th year of marriage, they are looking forward to what God has in store for their life after North Central.

Retiree

While not ready quite yet to claim the title, “retiree,” Anderson sees it on the horizon. Last spring, NCU Magazine asked him what the next stage might look like for him.

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“What God started, He will finish. He is determined He is going to make you like Jesus. If you stay hitched to the program, God will do tremendous things.” whole of their married life, Anderson responded with a touch of humor that he and Dianne are looking forward to “being good Christians when we’re not being paid to do so.”

Gordon Anderson’s North Central legacy is not in capital improvments (although they are impressive). It is not in the number of students who have sojourned here under his leadership (although there are thousands). It is not in a program, a building, or an initiative.

The real legacy of Gordon Anderson is that he has kept the heart of the school the heart of the school: Christ is at the center and will remain there. Chapel has been an unwavering priority. Students and their futures are of paramount importance. And the Kingdom of God has advanced through thousands of

lives that he has touched as pastor, preacher, professor, missionary, administrator, president, and friend.

No mistake

As Anderson concluded the telling of his story in chapel, he did what every good pastor does; he gave his application points: “Here you are at the start of a year.

You may wonder, ‘Why am I here?

Did God make a mistake picking me?’

The answer is no! What God started, He will finish. He is determined He is going to make you like Jesus. If you stay hitched to the program, God will do tremendous things.”

The North Central community is grateful that Gordon Anderson “stayed hitched to the program” here, for through Dr. Anderson, God has done tremendous things.

Scott Streble

Introducing the next ‘Greatest Generation’

By Erin White ’05, M.S. This year’s freshman class represents students in “Generation Z,” as they have been dubbed, born between 1996 and today (most of our freshmen were born in 1997 and 1998). They have lived their lives amidst economic uncertainty and global conflict, and they are being compared to the Greatest Generation (think World War II, Great Depression, and the American Dream).

Trend forecasters and market researchers alike are already priming the pump for what’s ahead, and while one cannot put millions of young people into one stereotype, a few trends are starting to emerge that are worth noting as this generation prepares to enter college.

We are seeing in this era of young people collaborative team players with an entrepreneurial spirit. They want to make things better and have the skills to make it happen.

A unique meeting of this trend and NCU’s ability to address it lies in both our location and our programs.

A place to make a difference

Situated in East Town (see article, page 12) and surrounded by abundant opportunities, North Central University is a prime location for these pragmatic, career-focused, world changers. The NCU School of Business recently added an entrepreneurship major, which fits a generation driven to make things better.

This “let’s make it better” mentality isn’t limited to business majors. It sweeps across the board from social work to recording arts, from church leadership to education; North Central’s vision, programs, and internships provide a place where students, staff, and faculty can partner together to make life better in a global way. We see this in alumni who have created non-profits to address world hunger and who have gone beyond borders as missionaries to impact the refugee crisis.

Having much but missing something

As dean of student advocacy, my job is to get to know our students and what drives them. Unlike the Millennial Generation who were born in the ’80s and early ’90s, Generation Z does not remember a time before social media. According to Pew Research, members of Generation Z: »» Interact with five screens daily »» Are hyper-aware »» Speak through pictures »» View speed in communication as cultural currency Due to concerns for privacy and personal branding they are moving away from Facebook and choosing anonymous social media platforms such as Snapchat, Secret or Whisper, where images disappear almost Fall 2016 | 19

Scott Streble

instantly. They have learned to access their own answers and are highly self-directed.

Yet despite their global social networks, these upcoming college students are also being called the loneliest generation. North Central’s focus on community as a core value has never changed and can serve as an important bridge in the face of this possibility.

From athletic teams to clubs, from leadership opportunities to classroom group projects, North Central students can connect both digitally and in person.

Addressing anxiety

Programs, however, are not enough to fully address loneliness. FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) and the complexity and uncertainty of the world around them have created higher levels of anxiety than we have seen in the past, which impacts the nature of the loneliness attributed to this generation.

Students who are struggling with loneliness, anxiety, or other issues have a strong network of support that comes through the partnership between our Residence Life program in Student Development and the counseling program in the Student Success Center.

The Student Success Center (SSC) offers academic support, disability support, mental health counseling, and career services, to go beyond social connection and offer healing and guidance plus practical resources to addresses specific student needs.

Todd Monger, Ph.D., executive director of student development and director of the SSC, stresses the importance and value of helping students build 20 | NCU Magazine

resilience. “The goal of what we do is to provide an environment where students will be supported and safe,” Monger said. “There is no one-size-fits-all program for students in this complicated season of life.

We are committed to a holistic support program.”

Monger and other staff and faculty working with students facing extreme challenges often get to see the great success stories, but they are quiet triumphs, because these stories of overcoming belong to each student in their personal journey.

Hope for the next ‘greatest generation’

In many ways this generation may seem contradictory: they are more socially connected than ever before yet lonely; they are anxious about the world around them and their options, yet pragmatic and entrepreneurial.

There will be new adventures to come with each characteristic and trend that rises to the surface as this distinct group of young people enters our colleges and universities. As staff and faculty, we work to ensure that their North Central education will not only meet their needs but also build them into Kingdom workers who will indeed make the world better.

Erin White ’05, M.S., is NCU’s dean of student advocacy. In her role she works with students, staff, and faculty to coordinate university-wide efforts to promote student success, persistence, and graduation.

By Logan Ketterling ’16

Submitted

Discovering my calling in story and art

Being the son of a pastor, there are few decisions in my life that aren’t examined. Outraged church members when seven-year-old me got a Mohawk?

Check. Friends questioning my decision to aid in the refugee crisis in 2015? Check. People shocked that I would study business administration at North Central instead of pastoral studies? Check.

I knew I was called to help in ministry in some way or another, but I wasn’t ever sure how my role fit. I have always loved stories, but it seemed I couldn’t fall in love with mine.

Because of this pressure I felt, I masked my fear of disappointing others by acting so confident in what I was doing that they would have to agree with my choices— but it came off as arrogance. I knew God had amazing plans for my life, but the enemy tempted me with doubt.

Unsure of where to begin, I remember not taking my classes too seriously and focusing more on what I could get from college rather than what I could give. I quickly found myself empty. I shared how I felt with my professors, and they encouraged me to embrace the call God had placed on my life and to tear down the walls I had built.

It’s crazy what happens when we admit our shortcomings.

Somewhere in those first two years, I found myself loving my classes, my peers, and my calling. I knew that God had me at North Central for a reason. During this season of change I started a fashion blog and began working as a personal stylist—I found something I loved.

After spending a summer abroad, I came home ready for another great year and restarted my styling job. Yet I could feel another tug, another push, another change coming. I thought, “God…do you really want me to start a business?” I felt inadequate, I felt like I wasn’t skilled enough—I wasn’t ready. Well, I was right, but I learned something. I learned to rely on others and to rely on God.

urbainmn.com

As I stepped foot onto campus in August 2013, I realized things would never be the same. Mom wasn’t there to make meals, money became a responsibility not a reward, and time management took on new meaning.

I masked my uncertainty with over-confidence.

The Marine, the first jewelry product from Urbain, was made from mid-19th century cedar saw logs from the Marine Mill in Marine, Minn.

Over the next several months I worked on creating a business concept that blended stories and fashion.

Combining these passions with the skills I was learning from the School of Business, I knew I was up for the challenge. After thousands of hours of hard work, knocking on dozens of doors, finding a few faithful friends to help me, and learning some expensive lessons, I knew we were finally ready. In March 2016, Urbain was launched.

Urbain creates handcrafted jewelry using rare raw materials from historic locations. The goal is to bring stories to life through products and to inspire others. It isn’t always easy, but God has opened many doors that I never could. We are honored to have been featured in several publications and local news outlets.

The outward appearance of my business ultimately reflects the change God put in my heart throughout my time at North Central. I am grateful for the opportunities God has given me, and glad that God is using this business to stretch me into the man of God that he has called me to be.

I am even more excited for what is to come. When God challenges me to change, I know that growth is coming—along with growing pains. I am ready to push through and see what God is going to do.

Logan Ketterling is a senior business administration major from Lakeville, Minn. He will graduate in December and plans to continue to expand his business. Learn more about Ketterling and Urbain at urbainmn.com.

Fall 2016 | 21

Submitted

The transforming power of mentorship Restoring, confirming, and connecting

By LaToya Jones Burrell, J.D. As a first-year faculty member, LaToya Burrell, J.D., was selected for the Women’s Leadership Development Institute (WLDI), a prestigious opportunity sponsored by the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities (CCCU). The WLDI program launch included a gathering at a retreat center north of Seattle. Here she shares reflections about the experience.

I am so grateful to be a part of the Women’s Leadership Development Institute. Already, the WLDI has gone beyond a professional development workshop and become an awakening experience and a beautiful walk with 25 like-minded sisters in Christ.

I arrived at Cedar Springs Christian Retreat Center in early June with a sense of peace and expectancy. I decided to keep a journal while there and on day one wrote three words that I hoped would describe my experience on the retreat: “Restore, Confirm, Connect!”

Women’s Leadership Development Institute retreat participants

“Listen carefully to what God is calling you to do. The clamor of many voices can drown out what God is saying. Your identity can only come from listening intentionally and very, very closely to what God is directing you to do.”

Marguerite Shuster, Ph.D.

A peaceful place for growth and change Each of the four fulfilling and intense days began with refreshing Bible study and worship.

During our working sessions, we were introduced to cutting edge literature on leadership and were given more than 10 books to take home!

I noted three major takeaways from the week: »» Follow God’s calling for your life, unapologetically. »» Be intentional about everything you do. »» Seek out mentorship and sponsorship.

On the final night, one of our speakers quoted Marguerite Shuster of Fuller University: “Listen carefully to what God is calling you to do. The clamor of many voices can drown out what God is saying. Your identity can only come from listening intentionally and very, very closely to what God is directing you to do.”

Wow! That was confirmation of what I wrote about on day one with the word “CONFIRM.” 22 | NCU Magazine

I reflected on the profound impact that one week, one person, and one quote could have on my life.

I left Cedar Springs restored, connected and with confirmation about personal questions on which I had been meditating.

Returning to Minneapolis, I realized that my WLDI journey was just beginning. I’m eager to take these resources and this experience and bring them back to NCU. I am being mentored by a wonderful mentor from another CCCU institution and I look forward to continuing the journey.

LaToya Jones Burrell, J.D., is an associate professor in the NCU School of Business.

Submitted

A summer trip to Israel was life changing for Doug Graham and 40 NCU students, pictured here with the Center for Holy Lands Studies tour group.

Seeing where Jesus walked

Holy Lands study trip gives new perspective

By Doug Graham ’86, D.Min. “If you ever have the opportunity to visit the Holy Lands, do it, because it will change your life!” This is what I have heard from almost every person I know who has visited Israel and other lands of the Bible.

water sources, etc., can be appreciated at a profound level when experiencing the land in person.

The Bible in living color

Even as a career pastor, my personal knowledge of the Holy Lands had previously come only from what I had studied in the Bible and gleaned from photos and documentaries.

My visit was spiritually life-changing, not just because it’s the land where Jesus walked, but because it’s the land where every Bible character walked and where every biblical event took place.

All of that changed this summer when I had the privilege of joining 40 NCU students, along with students and faculty from other Assemblies of God institutions, for a tour of Israel. This 26-day study tour, led by Marc Turnage, director of the Assemblies of God Center for Holy Lands Studies, proved my friends right—it changed my life!

It’s a vast desert region that in ancient times required complete dependence upon God to bring the rain. When we have plenty of water to drink and enough bread in our cupboards, we may not grasp the significance of Jesus teaching them to pray, saying, “give us this day our daily bread.”

Bringing Scripture to life

After experiencing the land personally, my understanding and appreciation of the Scripture has expanded in living—even HD—color.

Visiting the Holy Lands often triggers a powerful spiritual epiphany upon realizing, “This is where Jesus lived!” Sometimes the life-changing experience is subtler, as travelers begin to personally experience and absorb the physical elements of the land of Israel.

Traveling to Israel and seeing the geography of the land of the Bible propels the modern-day person in their understanding. The climate, topography, roadways, and

Doug Graham ’86, D.Min., is vice president for spiritual life and dean of the College of Church Leadership.

Fall 2016 | 23

David Johansen

Photos on this page and opposite page show scenes from refugee camps in Lebanon.

When everything changes

Work with refugees offers perspectives on transition As world citizens we see change happening in incomprehensible ways for people when their status becomes “refugee.” David Johansen ’84, who works in the Middle East with refugees, and Bob Brenneman, Ph.D., who travels regularly to the Middle East, share perspectives on what happens when everything changes—and what our response could be.

Johansen: When a refugee or a displaced person finally arrives in a neighboring country, in Syria’s case due to war, they are in shock and under immense stress from both the war and the long, precarious journey to get somewhere “safe.” Most people—adults and children— have seen destruction of property and the death of family or friends. They come with the clothes on their back and extremely few possessions. Along the way, some have been abused, had money and papers stolen, gone without food, been forced to help whatever faction’s area they are traveling through, or paid “fees” to cross districts and borders. They arrive depleted physically and emotionally.

Brenneman: I worked with a family that escaped three years ago. They are living in one-room temporary housing. Refugee fathers do all they can to support their families: They peel beans to sell the pods in the market, doing this for hours just to make a couple of bucks. Almost everyone there has lost someone to death.

They live in fear their girls are going to be snatched, or their wives. Nobody is certain who their friends are.

24 | NCU Magazine

Johansen: One Syrian family fled without anything and currently lives with other members of the extended family, also refugees. Because they have no official papers, the father cannot register in the host country to legally work.

Renewing the expired passport would require going to the Syrian embassy, but if stopped on the road he’d have to pay authorities “fees”— with money he doesn’t have—for not having papers. If the embassy discovers he or one of his sons didn’t do their mandatory military service, they may be forced to return to fight for the regime.

Laboring in an agricultural field, the father gets paid eight to ten dollars per day—a dollar per hour.

He comes home to sleep on a three-inch mattress on the floor under a canvas-covered tent. His wife cooks over a two-burner LP camp-like device.

Community pit toilets are installed around the camp, but are not always sufficient nor available.

Back in their homeland, their house is damaged and unlivable. Eleven known family members were killed, while others have disappeared or are not able to be contacted. They are thankful to be together and alive but desire to have a normal life and be accepted as people who can contribute to society, and eventually, to return home.

Brenneman: Jesus says, “Love your enemies.” We are never released from love. We are never released from our neighbors. Minnesota takes in, per capita, more

refugees than any other state. Organizations such as Arrive Ministries offer very practical help; they recently resettled their 10,000th individual refugee.

No matter where they come from—Somalia, Eritrea, Burma, Syria—all refugees need loving attention and loving care. Greeting them at the airport is huge, when they see a sign that says, “Welcome to America.”

They have never been welcomed anywhere before.

Johansen: I’ve heard Westerners commenting on the Middle East in general, and Syria in particular, stating “This is their problem,” that they created it and their plight is a result of their religion and politics. A fear of who they are or might be (terrorists) prohibits many from coming to the refugees’ aid. Refugees do not voluntarily become refugees—it’s under coercion of circumstances beyond their control.

David Johansen

To change this counter-productive thought, a reminder to observe Matthew 22:37-40 should be loudly stated: After loving God, we are to love our neighbor, with a love that proves its truth through actionable deeds, not pontifical words. We are to see others as also created in the image of God, even though they may not acknowledge their Creator as we do.

When everything changes for refugees, hope of eventual return or a better life is essential to their being buoyant in transitional waters. Many try to make the best of their situation but look to the future—this drives them forward. Another recovery key is fellowship within a community from which they derive strength.

Isolation kills; shared life stimulates growth.

Brenneman: This summer I led NCU students on a trip to the Middle East, where we worked with David Johansen and his wife, Nadia, who work right across the street from a refugee camp. There, we got involved with children, taught English, played a lot, and befriended many families.

Johansen: When short-term groups come, it helps the refugees see that the world is aware of their situation and they are not alone; it helps build bridges of the Gospel message of Christ’s love for them; it helps hold up our hands for a time amidst the exhausting demands of humanitarian labor; and it helps the refugees, especially the children, to play or talk to someone over a cup of tea and forget their situation.

David Johansen

Robert Brenneman, Ph.D., professor, School of Intercultural Studies, served as a missionary to the Middle East from 1981–1996.

David Johansen ’84 has spent 31 years in overseas ministry, with an emphasis on church planting and humanitarian work.

Fall 2016 | 25

2016–17 Alumni Association Board members (L to R): James Biffert ’95, Simon Trautmann ’03 (President), Tami (Anderson ’84) Jorris, Ron Held ’64, Barry Jorris ’82, LaDon (Hanson ’65) Held, Bill Svoboda ’06, Aimee (Perrin ’97) Robertson (Alumni Director), George Carr ’07, Ali (Schulz ’10) Carr, Dave Juve ’88.

Not Pictured: Terrence Talley ’08, Caleb Brose ’15

Meet your Alumni Association Board

We want to hear your news!

The Alumni Association was organized by a group of graduates who recognized that their alma mater needed their support to flourish. We work to keep alumni connected to North Central and each other, build partnerships between North Central and the community, and support the spiritual, academic, intellectual, recruitment, and placement interests and goals of the university.

Include your current email and we’ll also send you the monthly Alumni Newsletter.

The board meets twice yearly to stay in touch with the happenings of the university and support alumni events and initiatives. Last fall the board personally called 100 newly accepted students to welcome them into the North Central family. In their respective daily lives, they seek to recruit potential students, connect with alumni, and do all they can to support the efforts of the Alumni Association and NCU. 26 | NCU Magazine

Visit northcentral.edu/alumni/update to share: »» Wedding and baby announcements »» Professional updates »» Prayer requests

FIND US ON SOCIAL MEDIA Instagram: northcentral_mn Twitter: northcentral_mn Facebook: North Central University Updates submitted to the Alumni office are considered for publication in NCU Magazine based on available space and may be edited for brevity and clarity. Publication does not indicate an endorsement of any individual or organization.

Then and now: Elliot Park

THEN The green space in Elliot Park across from Miller Hall has served many purposes over the years. No official tallies exist to verify how many North Central intramural games were played there, how many students ice-skated there, or how many picnics took place, but even when the field was referred to as “the Dust Bowl,” it was part of NCU history and legends.

NOW

Most commonly used by Rams men’s and women’s soccer teams, the field also hosts student life activities, and next spring will become home to NCU’s newest sport, men’s lacrosse. The community uses the field for youth and adult soccer leagues and other events.

NCU and the MPRB have changed the landscape of Elliot Park, and the whole East Town area benefits from this partnership. The field will continue to serve as an asset to NCU and the Elliot Park community for years to come.

Emily Robertson

The green space was transformed in fall 2015, when North Central University celebrated the completion of the Elliot Park soccer field, the product of a unique public-private partnership with Minneapolis Parks and Recreation Board (MPRB).

In June, a donor stone was installed in Elliot Park to express appreciation to the major donors who made the creation of the athletic field possible.

Fall 2016 | 27

Wayne Hilton ’73

Julia (Antilla ’77) Wilson

Jim ’88 and Michele (Waltermire ’88) Brown

Kim (Kipling ’88) Falcon

Melissa Ollendieck ’93

Spencer Keroff ’01

Class updates 1950 s Robert Doorn ’51 is assisting in planting a new church in Mt. Dora, Fla., after 40 years of pastoral ministry plus an additional 25 years of ministering in the nations. He and his wife are 87 years old and “in fair health for our age. Praise be to Jesus!”

1960 s Bonnie (Kinard ’69) Nelson is a full-time RV MAPS volunteer church builder, along with her husband, Richard. In the past 17 years they have built churches, Teen Challenge Centers, and worked 2½ years in disaster relief and rebuilding in Hurricane Katrina aftermath. They have worked in eight states and several foreign countries.

1970 s Thuman Faison ’72 celebrated his 78th birthday. He has been a writer for some years and has an authors page on amazon.com.

Wendell Anderson ’73 retired after founding and pastoring Lakeland Assembly in Minocqua, Wis., for 38 years.

28 | NCU Magazine

Wayne Hilton ’73, resides with his wife, Patti, in Nashville. His career has included work as studio manager, record producer and A & R manager in Christian music, with most of the last 30 years working as a general contractor and custom home builder. He and his sons have helped to build 25 churches in South America.

Julia (Antilla ’77) Wilson teaches at Vanguard University in the Nursing Department. She graduated with her doctorate in nursing in 2014, has been married 31 years, and has two children.

1980 s Jim ’88 and Michele (Waltermire ’88) Brown are newly appointed U.S. Missionaries with Convoy of Hope/Rural Compassion. Daughter Alicia Brown is in her senior year at NCU as a youth ministry major and youngest daughter Breana is a freshman at Eastern Illinois University.

Kim (Kipling ’88) Falcon completed her Ph.D. in leadership, with a higher education concentration. As a nationally accredited Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) She serves

as director of development operations and research & sponsored programs at Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, Okla.

1990s Melissa Ollendieck ’93 graduated from Assemblies of God Theological Seminary with a doctorate in leadership with an emphasis on coaching. She’s formed a business, iCare Coaching, LLC, to facilitate discipleship by bringing out the potential in others. Website is missyollendieck.com.

Jonathan Parr ’94 and his wife, Nancy, and daughter Sarah live in Colonia El Milagro, a village west of Cancun, Mexico, as independent missionaries. They teach English to about 100 children and adults at a community center; run a kid’s program, a youth ministry and outreach programs; and pastor a small congregation.

Gary ’90 and Katherine (Kallies ’95) Shanahan live in Kenosha, Wis., since their 2008 return from serving as AG missionaries to Armenia and Ukraine.

Gary is a registered nurse and currently does home health visits in Milwaukee.

Katherine is a private nanny for three

Kevin ’03 and Missy (Riemersma ’01) Hess

Sam ’11 and Jaclyn (Trieb ’11) Luthi

children. They have two children of their own: Aaron (20) and Sarah (18).

Michael ’95 and Kimberly (Barnas ’95) Smith live in Naperville, Ill. Michael is currently serving as assimilation pastor at Calvary Church in Naperville and serves as the president of New Normal Coaching. They have five kids: Rebecca (college freshman), Jacob (high school sophomore), Allison (12), Andrew (8), Nevaeh (3), and Anna (1).

Adam Schmidgall ’96 currently serves as a children’s and family evangelist available for services, camps, and trainings. He is married to Joni, and they have three children: Zayne (5), Isaac (3), and Liberty (1).

Jonathan Hall ’97 was promoted to president of NIP Management Services, a division of one of the top 100 insurance intermediaries in the U.S., and appointed as executive director of the Harden State Municipal Joint Insurance Fund and the Public Entity Joint Insurance Fund. He has been married for 16 years to Laura.

They have two children, ages 8 and 11.

Ashley (Dodge ’08) Crandell

Katie (Osterbauer ’08) Strom

Lucina Susan Casper

Joshua Humpa ’13

2000 s Sam ’00 and Juliene (Tilus ’02) Muhlbauer announce the birth of Annalie Grace on Dec. 4, 2015. She joins Carson (10), Kaden (8), Ryland (5), and Eliana (3). The Muhlbauers reside in Little Falls, Minn., where Sam is a youth pastor at Living Hope Church.

Chris ’00 and Kelly (Weis ’01) Dudley live in Springfield, Mo., with children Iliana (10) and Silas (7). Chris is the director of disaster response at Convoy of Hope. Kelly is a licensed social worker, working as a forensic interviewer with children who are victims of or witness violent crime.

Tara (Brooks ’01) Kenyon graduated in May from Assemblies of God Theological Seminary.

Spencer Keroff ’01 graduated from University of Northwestern – St. Paul with a Master of Divinity. He is currently serving as the lead pastor of First Church of the Open Bible in Des Moines, Iowa, and lives with his wife, Lisa (Clarke ’01) Keroff.

Kevin ’03 and Missy (Riemersma, ’01) Hess celebrated their five-year anniversary as lead pastors of Lighthouse Assembly in St. Ignace, Mich. Missy is an RN and care manager at Mackinac Straits Hospital in St. Ignace. They have been married for 15 years and have two daughters, Makayla (12) and Hannah (7).

Sandra (Pasche ’04) Hannah is married to William Hannah, who left NCU to join the Marine Corps Reserve unit in Topeka, Kan. They have four children and are serving the children in their local church on a weekly basis.

Ashley (Dodge ’08) Crandell and her husband, Lance, celebrated two years of marriage. She works as chief culture officer for a digital marketing agency in Gilbert, Ariz. The Crandells are expecting their first child in February 2017.

Katie (Osterbauer ’08) Strom was promoted to loan officer at Premier Bank in Maplewood, Minn. Her husband, Colin, recently started his own company and the couple welcomed their firstborn, Colin Jr.

Fall 2016 | 29

Josiah Kennealy ’13

Titus James Rouser

Morgan Magnuson ’14

Joel Larson ’14

Jen Sargent ’15

Andrew and Mekeyah (Wright ’16) Martin

2010 s Sam ’11 and Jaclyn (Trieb ’11) Luthi announce the birth of their daughter Evelyn in December 2014. Sam is currently on staff as worship and youth pastor at Northwoods Assembly in Perham, Minn., and is currently completing his M.A. at Southeastern University. (Pictured on page 29).

Rachel (Smith ’13) Culbertson moved with her husband, David, to State College, Penn., for a youth pastoring opportunity.

Rachel works at Penn State University in the Ethics and Compliance Department.

staff at Oak Creek Assembly of God in Oak Creek, Wis., as children’s pastor, where his wife serves as care ministries pastor.

Josiah Kennealy ’13 is the young adult pastor at Cedar Valley Church in Bloomington, Minn. He is also in the graduate studies program at North Central University.

Titus James Rouser was born on Dec. 31, 2015, to Josh ’13 and Sonya (Beichley ’15) Rouser.

Morgan Magnuson ’14 is employed as a K–12 educational interpreter and independently contracting as a youth Lucina Susan Casper was born on February soccer and high school volleyball official.

16, 2016, to Thomas ’12 and Sasha Joel Larson ’14 is working at Peninsula (Morris ’12) Casper. They now reside in Madison, Wis. (Pictured on page 29).

Covenant Church in Redwood City, Calif. He married in October 2015 Amber Thaemert ’12 has been working in and immediately became a dad to his South Dakota for four years as a teacher “amazing, now 10-year-old son.” He in a toddler classroom at a local child care shares that “God is good, even when facility. In September she left the country California is ridiculous and crazy.” to teach English in Asia for the school year.

Samuel Olmstead ’14 works at a fullJoshua Humpa ’13 and his wife, Stephanie, service digital marketing agency a few announce the birth of their daughter blocks away from NCU. He is married, Chloe Ann on Sept. 2, 2015. Joshua is on and they are expecting their first child.

30 | NCU Magazine

Jen Sargent ’15 is transitioning to Romania as a missionary and will be working with an anti-trafficking organization called CrozierLife, Inc. Her focus will be youth and community development.

Andrew and Mekeyah (Wright ’16) Martin married on August 20, 2016.

Mekeyah has accepted an administrative assistant position for the College of Arts and Sciences at North Central.

IN MEMORY North Central University extends condolences to the families of these alumni who have passed away.

Melvin Drews ’50, died on Feb. 17, 2015, and his wife, Bonnie (Berndt ’50) Drews, died on April 9, 2016.

They were living in Sturgis, S.D. Marvin Richter ’69 went home to be with the Lord on Dec. 7, 2014, at the age of 67. He is survived by his wife, Mari (Storeby ’72), three children, and eight grandchildren. Marvin was semi-retired from pastoral ministry. He was diagnosed with ALS in February 2013 and survived 18 months.

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