Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Portland, OR Permit No. 527
2219 SE 68th Avenue Portland, OR 97215 503.517.1020 warnerpacific.edu RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED
The hope that Rhona found in Christ continues to drive her work today. She is the Director of Outreach for Transitional Youth, a faith-based ministry to the homeless. As she built relationships with vulnerable youth, Rhona began to see a new opportunity for support emerging through a non-profit job training program she calls Braking Cycles.
RHONA’S STORY Rhona Mahl has worked with youth who live on the margins in Portland for her entire career. She has witnessed firsthand the cycles of abuse, poverty, addiction, sex trafficking, homelessness, and hopelessness that entangle the lives of young people in our city and she has seen how easily these cycles can break the spirits of those she serves. The path of homelessness deeply resonates with Rhona because there was a time when she found herself living on the streets. A 2007 Human Development graduate of the Warner Pacific Adult Degree Program, Rhona was born in New Orleans. For the first seven years of her life, Rhona, along with her mother and three of her six siblings called the family car home. Her early years were marked by abuse and neglect which led her to try and combat her loneliness with drugs at the age of 12. Rhona was a runaway by 13 and at age 14 she became a mother. Becoming a mother, even at such a young age, gave Rhona a sense of hope for the first time in her life. She remembers crying out to God, daring Him to prove His existence in the midst of her brokenness; in her pain, He revealed Himself. Strengthened by a new-found faith, Rhona found the hope that she needed to fight for herself and most importantly, for the life of her baby girl. Trying to escape the cycles of abuse, violence, and family addictions led Rhona to eventually move to Portland, the city she now calls home.
Braking Cycles is a unique social entrepreneurial endeavor that celebrates and taps into the love of Portland's beautiful bike, coffee, and art cultures to raise awareness of the destructive cycles that keep so many young people trapped and hopeless. Part coffee cart, part bike shop, Braking Cycles provides meals, transportation, job training, and practical apprenticeships to Portland’s most vulnerable youth in a hope-filled environment. Rhona believes that this is where healthy self-sufficiency can become the new cycle. Having moved around to various sites across the city for more than 2 years, Braking Cycles is preparing to settle into their first brick and mortar store on SE 33rd and Powell in January 2017. Rhona is currently working on organizing penny drives to create a beautiful and unique floor at the new café, the penny has become an unofficial symbol of Braking Cycles. “Pennies are much like the youth we serve; they are often times tossed aside, stepped over, forgotten and not valued. How often have we intentionally stepped over pennies on the sidewalk? Just as often we step over youth caught in the traps and addictions of the streets. We want to change that, and we believe you can help! By exposing the lie, and seeing the real value of our youth, we will not only raise the bar in our own belief systems, we can make a tremendous impact on the community around us in sharing this simple story. The next time you see a penny on the street, stop and pick it up, think about the hundreds of youth on the streets of Portland, and consider what you can do to make a difference… one penny at a time!” Learn more at brakingcycles.org.
MAKE AN IMPACT AT WARNERPACIFIC.EDU/GIVE
INCOMING STUDENT SNAPSHOT
70%
59%
STUDENTS OF COLOR
FIRST-GENERATION STUDENTS
8:1
14
STUDENT TO FACULTY RATIO
AVERAGE CLASS SIZE
10,000+ ALUMNI WORLDWIDE
WP ALUMNI RESIDE IN
50 STATES
& 29 COUNTRIES ACROSS THE GLOBE
2016 ACCOLADES • Only 4-Year Institution in Oregon to be Listed as an Emerging Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) by HSI Center for Policy and Practice (Emerging Category) • Educational Equity Award – Oregon; Oregon Campus Compact • #1 (tied) Most Diverse Campus – West; U.S. News & World Report, 2017 Edition • #6 Regional College – West; U.S. News & World Report, 2017 Edition • #7 Best Value School – West; U.S. News & World Report, 2017 Edition • A Best College for Veterans; U.S. News & World Report, 2017 Edition • Best College for Online Business Degrees; College Start • Best Online Degree Program in Oregon; BestColleges.com • #2 in Portland for Online Degree Offerings; Great Value Colleges • Top 5 Education Program – Oregon; ToBecomeATeacher.org • A Best Christian College; College Choice • 20 Knights Earned Academic All-Conference Recognition from the CCC
PRESIDENT’S REPORT 2016
I EXPERIENCED A LOT OF DISCRIMINATION IN SCHOOL AS I WAS GROWING UP, A LOT OF STUDENTS AND STAFF DIDN’T WANT TO ENGAGE IN CONVERSATIONS ABOUT DIVERSITY. BEING A MEXICAN-AMERICAN STUDENT IN A PRIMARILY WHITE SCHOOL CREATED MANY DISADVANTAGES FOR ME. MANY PEOPLE DOUBTED MY PURSUIT IN EDUCATION BUT THE STEREOTYPICAL COMMENTS BUILT RESILIENCE WITHIN ME. I AM NOW A PROUD SENIOR AT WARNER PACIFIC, WHERE I AM NOT DISCRIMINATED AGAINST BECAUSE OF MY CULTURE, ETHNICITY, OR SKIN COLOR. I AM BLESSED BECAUSE I AM ABLE TO FEEL COMFORTABLE WITH WHO I AM WHILE BEING FULLY SUPPORTED BY MY SCHOOL COMMUNITY. - STEPHANIE REYES-CHAVEZ ’17 SOCIAL WORK MAJOR
C H R IST-C E NT ERED | URBAN | LIBERAL ARTS | D IVERSE
INVESTING IN STUDENTS ADVANCING THE CITY
2016
FINANCIALS
BRYCE WHITE (LEFT) AND DEMARCUS BEST MEET IN THE TABOR GRIND.
PRESIDENT COOK ENJOYS LUNCH WITH STUDENTS IN THE EGTVEDT DINING HALL.
TOTAL ENDOWMENT VALUE 9,632,379 6,932,097
It all started with an idea.
RUBEN’S STORY American higher education is changing. As prospective students begin planning for college, they’re looking for institutions that will provide broad access to new technologies, cutting edge degree programs that will increase earning power in a complex economy, and a relational experience that will teach them to think critically and adapt fluidly to meet the needs of the community. In Oregon, shifting demographics throughout the state are opening the doors of our campuses to families and communities who have not had access to higher education in the past. We are blessed to serve students who bring with them rich histories and unique perspectives that are expanding our awareness and reshaping the mold of the college experience. Since my inauguration in 2009, my eyes have been focused on the road ahead, always thinking about how Warner Pacific College can grow into the future. These past seven years have seen many changes and with each change we are becoming better equipped to respond to the opportunities we see on the horizon. I am excited to report that 2016 has been a momentous year for the College, as we are making major strides in identifying opportunities for new programs to better serve today’s student. It has also been exciting to see our campus reach a tipping point in diversity wherein our incoming traditional class is comprised of 70% students of color. Our dedication to
serving students from diverse backgrounds is being noticed as Warner Pacific was recognized as the only four-year institution in the state of Oregon to be identified as an Emerging Hispanic Serving Institution by the HSI Center for Policy and Practice, as well as being tied for the #1 Most Diverse Campus in the West by U.S. News & World Report. Of course, as often happens in the process of moving, bumps and scrapes do occur. We have faced our share of challenges. However, we continue to focus on what God has ahead of us, exploring the many ways in which Warner Pacific College is poised to become the leader in Christ-centered, urban, liberal arts education. In the pages of this report, I am excited to celebrate some of the members of our community who embody the ethos of Warner Pacific College. These students and alumni are using their gifts in remarkable ways to further the mission and vision of the College. I am confident that we will continue to share the hope of Christ throughout Portland and the world as we raise up the next generation of diverse, urban leaders. In Christ,
Andrea P. Cook, Ph.D. President
The National Summit for Courageous Conversation (NSCC) brings together dedicated leaders for racial equity from around the world to engage in authentic and often difficult conversations about systemic racism and its impact on opportunity and achievement in schools, colleges, business, government and community life. The 2016 NSCC was held in Austin, Texas and featured inspiring speakers, distinguished international educators, and a host of equity practitioners from school districts, independent schools, universities, government agencies, and corporations who were prepared to share an insider perspective of their challenges and triumphs as they strive to achieve racial equity in their personal and professional contexts. One of these speakers was Warner Pacific sophomore, Ruben Estrada. Ruben, a pre-med major, was born in Santiago de Cuba and immigrated to the United States with his family when he was 15. His parents made the decision to leave Cuba to ensure their children would have an education that allowed them to choose a career path, rather than having one assigned. Arriving in America with little knowledge of the English language, the family faced obstacles from the start. Enrolled as a freshman at Grant High School in Portland, Ruben worked hard but found it extremely difficult to be successful in classes and in friendships
due to the language barrier. Through educational support programs, dedicated teachers, and his own determination, Ruben began to meet his goals in academics and became a leader for other immigrant students within his school community. He led the International Youth Leader Council, a student group focused on the experience of nonEnglish speakers in Portland Public Schools. His tireless efforts to advocate for himself and the immigrant community were noticed by organizers of the NSCC and Ruben was invited to share his passion on opening doors of access for bilingual learners at the 2016 event.
from success and educational growth. I proposed systematic solutions to help emerging bilingual student to overcome language, social, and economic barriers. These solutions will have tremendous impact in the future of many emerging bilingual students and their families.” Ruben, the first in his family to attend college, believes that he is creating a path for others in the immigrant community to achieve their dreams, especially his younger sister.
“It was an honor to participate in the 2016 National Courageous Conversation Summit. I spent a weekend with influential people who are leaders in the national education system of the United States. I had the opportunity to present about racial equality using my work with the International Youth Leader Council as an example. I focused the presentation on the experiences of immigrant students during their first years in American schools. I informed superintendents, administrators, and educators the ways that our education system can often hold back emerging bilingual students
Since incoming freshmen at the College are already working with Peer Mentors through the First-Year Learning Communities (FYLCs), it was decided to have the Alumni Mentoring Program focus on supporting transfer students. Cline began to pair alumni and students based on vocational similarities so if a student was majoring in business, she would find an alum who was already working in the field.
7,690,731
2010-2011
2011-2012
10,883,738
11,443,291
2014-2015
2015-2016
5,260,225
Last summer, Serena Cline ’02, Director of Alumni Relations and Annual Giving for Warner Pacific was trying to think of new ways to engage alumni in the life and mission of the College. “I wanted to find ways they could bring their talents back to our campus, rather than just attending lunches and dinners,” said Cline. She knew there had to be a better way to re-establish contact with alumni than just calling to ask for financial contributions. On the advice of a consultant working with the College, Cline surveyed alumni and found that they were most excited about finding ways to help students in tangible ways. It seemed obvious that the next step was to survey students to find out what they were looking for, which is how the Warner Pacific Alumni Mentoring Program was born.
7,429,316
10,248,105
ALUMNI MENTORING PROGRAM Transfer student Bryce White and his mentor Demarcus Best ’04 have started meeting regularly this semester. “We have both played basketball for Warner Pacific,” Best said. “It’s the connection, you know, with a young person. I can give advice because I have been through a lot of the same things he’s going through.” Best and White meet a few times a month and talk about vocations and different pathways for the future. “I’ve learned the importance of networking; it’s been great to connect with someone in the professional field,” said White. And while he isn’t sure what his end goals will look like yet, he is talking to Best about his desire to work in the field of
INTERESTED IN BECOMING A MENTOR? CONTACT SERENA CLINE AT SCLINE@ WARNERPACIFIC.EDU OR 503-517-1026.
advocacy, as well as having conversations about larger issues like life satisfaction and financial stability. Serena Cline summarized what makes the Alumni Mentoring Program work. “It’s really self-directed because each student is going to need something different.” While her work is focused on making matches, providing optional topics for discussion, and occasionally checking in with the pairs to see how they’re doing, how it flies is dependent on the commitment between the mentors and mentees. “I do ask that meetings, if possible, take place on campus so that it’s easier for the student. I think it builds a lot of energy when you see the mentoring happening at Tabor Grind or in the Dining Hall,” said Cline. Of course, Cline’s ultimate goal for the program extends beyond connecting alumni and students today, it’s about laying a groundwork for the future. “In every job I’ve had, I can point to a person who helped me get the interview. Someone made a call or sent an email on my behalf. I had to get the job once I was in the interview, but my professional networks have helped me get a seat at the table.”
3,361,521
3,459,937
2006-2007
2007-2008
2008-2009
2009-2010
WHERE DOES THE MONEY COME FROM?
AUXILIARY SERVICES 14.4% CONTRIBUTIONS 6.3% INVESTMENT INCOME 2.6%
2013-2014
WHERE DOES THE MONEY GO?
AUXILIARY 15.7% STUDENT SUPPORT 21.4%
INSTITUTIONAL SUPPORT 17.4% ACADEMIC SUPPORT 4.1% PUBLIC SERVICE 0.6%
GRANTS 1.6% TUITION AND FEES 71.3%
OTHER 2.4%
INSTRUCTION 42.2%
NET OPERATIONAL VARIANCE 879,886
379,484 202,855
AT NSCC, RUBEN WAS RECOGNIZED FOR HIS OUTSTANDING LEADERSHIP IN PORTLAND PUBLIC SCHOOLS.
-3,673
-155,519 -303,211
- This is an excerpt from the original article by Emily Wintringham and Ashley Gorsek which was first published in the Knight Times on October 20, 2016. Photo by Stephanie Davis.
2012-2013
2010-2011
2011-2012
2012-2013
2013-2014
2014-2015
2015-2016
2016 AUDITED FINANCIALS Total Assets
$30,707,484
Total Liabilities
$14,205,812
Total Net Assets
$16,501,672
Total Liabilities and Net Assets
$30,707,484
Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Portland, OR Permit No. 527
2219 SE 68th Avenue Portland, OR 97215 503.517.1020 warnerpacific.edu RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED
The hope that Rhona found in Christ continues to drive her work today. She is the Director of Outreach for Transitional Youth, a faith-based ministry to the homeless. As she built relationships with vulnerable youth, Rhona began to see a new opportunity for support emerging through a non-profit job training program she calls Braking Cycles.
RHONA’S STORY Rhona Mahl has worked with youth who live on the margins in Portland for her entire career. She has witnessed firsthand the cycles of abuse, poverty, addiction, sex trafficking, homelessness, and hopelessness that entangle the lives of young people in our city and she has seen how easily these cycles can break the spirits of those she serves. The path of homelessness deeply resonates with Rhona because there was a time when she found herself living on the streets. A 2007 Human Development graduate of the Warner Pacific Adult Degree Program, Rhona was born in New Orleans. For the first seven years of her life, Rhona, along with her mother and three of her six siblings called the family car home. Her early years were marked by abuse and neglect which led her to try and combat her loneliness with drugs at the age of 12. Rhona was a runaway by 13 and at age 14 she became a mother. Becoming a mother, even at such a young age, gave Rhona a sense of hope for the first time in her life. She remembers crying out to God, daring Him to prove His existence in the midst of her brokenness; in her pain, He revealed Himself. Strengthened by a new-found faith, Rhona found the hope that she needed to fight for herself and most importantly, for the life of her baby girl. Trying to escape the cycles of abuse, violence, and family addictions led Rhona to eventually move to Portland, the city she now calls home.
Braking Cycles is a unique social entrepreneurial endeavor that celebrates and taps into the love of Portland's beautiful bike, coffee, and art cultures to raise awareness of the destructive cycles that keep so many young people trapped and hopeless. Part coffee cart, part bike shop, Braking Cycles provides meals, transportation, job training, and practical apprenticeships to Portland’s most vulnerable youth in a hope-filled environment. Rhona believes that this is where healthy self-sufficiency can become the new cycle. Having moved around to various sites across the city for more than 2 years, Braking Cycles is preparing to settle into their first brick and mortar store on SE 33rd and Powell in January 2017. Rhona is currently working on organizing penny drives to create a beautiful and unique floor at the new café, the penny has become an unofficial symbol of Braking Cycles. “Pennies are much like the youth we serve; they are often times tossed aside, stepped over, forgotten and not valued. How often have we intentionally stepped over pennies on the sidewalk? Just as often we step over youth caught in the traps and addictions of the streets. We want to change that, and we believe you can help! By exposing the lie, and seeing the real value of our youth, we will not only raise the bar in our own belief systems, we can make a tremendous impact on the community around us in sharing this simple story. The next time you see a penny on the street, stop and pick it up, think about the hundreds of youth on the streets of Portland, and consider what you can do to make a difference… one penny at a time!” Learn more at brakingcycles.org.
MAKE AN IMPACT AT WARNERPACIFIC.EDU/GIVE
INCOMING STUDENT SNAPSHOT
70%
59%
STUDENTS OF COLOR
FIRST-GENERATION STUDENTS
8:1
14
STUDENT TO FACULTY RATIO
AVERAGE CLASS SIZE
10,000+ ALUMNI WORLDWIDE
WP ALUMNI RESIDE IN
50 STATES
& 29 COUNTRIES ACROSS THE GLOBE
2016 ACCOLADES • Only 4-Year Institution in Oregon to be Listed as an Emerging Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) by HSI Center for Policy and Practice (Emerging Category) • Educational Equity Award – Oregon; Oregon Campus Compact • #1 (tied) Most Diverse Campus – West; U.S. News & World Report, 2017 Edition • #6 Regional College – West; U.S. News & World Report, 2017 Edition • #7 Best Value School – West; U.S. News & World Report, 2017 Edition • A Best College for Veterans; U.S. News & World Report, 2017 Edition • Best College for Online Business Degrees; College Start • Best Online Degree Program in Oregon; BestColleges.com • #2 in Portland for Online Degree Offerings; Great Value Colleges • Top 5 Education Program – Oregon; ToBecomeATeacher.org • A Best Christian College; College Choice • 20 Knights Earned Academic All-Conference Recognition from the CCC
PRESIDENT’S REPORT 2016
I EXPERIENCED A LOT OF DISCRIMINATION IN SCHOOL AS I WAS GROWING UP, A LOT OF STUDENTS AND STAFF DIDN’T WANT TO ENGAGE IN CONVERSATIONS ABOUT DIVERSITY. BEING A MEXICAN-AMERICAN STUDENT IN A PRIMARILY WHITE SCHOOL CREATED MANY DISADVANTAGES FOR ME. MANY PEOPLE DOUBTED MY PURSUIT IN EDUCATION BUT THE STEREOTYPICAL COMMENTS BUILT RESILIENCE WITHIN ME. I AM NOW A PROUD SENIOR AT WARNER PACIFIC, WHERE I AM NOT DISCRIMINATED AGAINST BECAUSE OF MY CULTURE, ETHNICITY, OR SKIN COLOR. I AM BLESSED BECAUSE I AM ABLE TO FEEL COMFORTABLE WITH WHO I AM WHILE BEING FULLY SUPPORTED BY MY SCHOOL COMMUNITY. - STEPHANIE REYES-CHAVEZ ’17 SOCIAL WORK MAJOR
C H R IST-C E NT ERED | URBAN | LIBERAL ARTS | D IVERSE
INVESTING IN STUDENTS ADVANCING THE CITY
2016
FINANCIALS
BRYCE WHITE (LEFT) AND DEMARCUS BEST MEET IN THE TABOR GRIND.
PRESIDENT COOK ENJOYS LUNCH WITH STUDENTS IN THE EGTVEDT DINING HALL.
TOTAL ENDOWMENT VALUE 9,632,379 6,932,097
It all started with an idea.
RUBEN’S STORY American higher education is changing. As prospective students begin planning for college, they’re looking for institutions that will provide broad access to new technologies, cutting edge degree programs that will increase earning power in a complex economy, and a relational experience that will teach them to think critically and adapt fluidly to meet the needs of the community. In Oregon, shifting demographics throughout the state are opening the doors of our campuses to families and communities who have not had access to higher education in the past. We are blessed to serve students who bring with them rich histories and unique perspectives that are expanding our awareness and reshaping the mold of the college experience. Since my inauguration in 2009, my eyes have been focused on the road ahead, always thinking about how Warner Pacific College can grow into the future. These past seven years have seen many changes and with each change we are becoming better equipped to respond to the opportunities we see on the horizon. I am excited to report that 2016 has been a momentous year for the College, as we are making major strides in identifying opportunities for new programs to better serve today’s student. It has also been exciting to see our campus reach a tipping point in diversity wherein our incoming traditional class is comprised of 70% students of color. Our dedication to
serving students from diverse backgrounds is being noticed as Warner Pacific was recognized as the only four-year institution in the state of Oregon to be identified as an Emerging Hispanic Serving Institution by the HSI Center for Policy and Practice, as well as being tied for the #1 Most Diverse Campus in the West by U.S. News & World Report. Of course, as often happens in the process of moving, bumps and scrapes do occur. We have faced our share of challenges. However, we continue to focus on what God has ahead of us, exploring the many ways in which Warner Pacific College is poised to become the leader in Christ-centered, urban, liberal arts education. In the pages of this report, I am excited to celebrate some of the members of our community who embody the ethos of Warner Pacific College. These students and alumni are using their gifts in remarkable ways to further the mission and vision of the College. I am confident that we will continue to share the hope of Christ throughout Portland and the world as we raise up the next generation of diverse, urban leaders. In Christ,
Andrea P. Cook, Ph.D. President
The National Summit for Courageous Conversation (NSCC) brings together dedicated leaders for racial equity from around the world to engage in authentic and often difficult conversations about systemic racism and its impact on opportunity and achievement in schools, colleges, business, government and community life. The 2016 NSCC was held in Austin, Texas and featured inspiring speakers, distinguished international educators, and a host of equity practitioners from school districts, independent schools, universities, government agencies, and corporations who were prepared to share an insider perspective of their challenges and triumphs as they strive to achieve racial equity in their personal and professional contexts. One of these speakers was Warner Pacific sophomore, Ruben Estrada. Ruben, a pre-med major, was born in Santiago de Cuba and immigrated to the United States with his family when he was 15. His parents made the decision to leave Cuba to ensure their children would have an education that allowed them to choose a career path, rather than having one assigned. Arriving in America with little knowledge of the English language, the family faced obstacles from the start. Enrolled as a freshman at Grant High School in Portland, Ruben worked hard but found it extremely difficult to be successful in classes and in friendships
due to the language barrier. Through educational support programs, dedicated teachers, and his own determination, Ruben began to meet his goals in academics and became a leader for other immigrant students within his school community. He led the International Youth Leader Council, a student group focused on the experience of nonEnglish speakers in Portland Public Schools. His tireless efforts to advocate for himself and the immigrant community were noticed by organizers of the NSCC and Ruben was invited to share his passion on opening doors of access for bilingual learners at the 2016 event.
from success and educational growth. I proposed systematic solutions to help emerging bilingual student to overcome language, social, and economic barriers. These solutions will have tremendous impact in the future of many emerging bilingual students and their families.” Ruben, the first in his family to attend college, believes that he is creating a path for others in the immigrant community to achieve their dreams, especially his younger sister.
“It was an honor to participate in the 2016 National Courageous Conversation Summit. I spent a weekend with influential people who are leaders in the national education system of the United States. I had the opportunity to present about racial equality using my work with the International Youth Leader Council as an example. I focused the presentation on the experiences of immigrant students during their first years in American schools. I informed superintendents, administrators, and educators the ways that our education system can often hold back emerging bilingual students
Since incoming freshmen at the College are already working with Peer Mentors through the First-Year Learning Communities (FYLCs), it was decided to have the Alumni Mentoring Program focus on supporting transfer students. Cline began to pair alumni and students based on vocational similarities so if a student was majoring in business, she would find an alum who was already working in the field.
7,690,731
2010-2011
2011-2012
10,883,738
11,443,291
2014-2015
2015-2016
5,260,225
Last summer, Serena Cline ’02, Director of Alumni Relations and Annual Giving for Warner Pacific was trying to think of new ways to engage alumni in the life and mission of the College. “I wanted to find ways they could bring their talents back to our campus, rather than just attending lunches and dinners,” said Cline. She knew there had to be a better way to re-establish contact with alumni than just calling to ask for financial contributions. On the advice of a consultant working with the College, Cline surveyed alumni and found that they were most excited about finding ways to help students in tangible ways. It seemed obvious that the next step was to survey students to find out what they were looking for, which is how the Warner Pacific Alumni Mentoring Program was born.
7,429,316
10,248,105
ALUMNI MENTORING PROGRAM Transfer student Bryce White and his mentor Demarcus Best ’04 have started meeting regularly this semester. “We have both played basketball for Warner Pacific,” Best said. “It’s the connection, you know, with a young person. I can give advice because I have been through a lot of the same things he’s going through.” Best and White meet a few times a month and talk about vocations and different pathways for the future. “I’ve learned the importance of networking; it’s been great to connect with someone in the professional field,” said White. And while he isn’t sure what his end goals will look like yet, he is talking to Best about his desire to work in the field of
INTERESTED IN BECOMING A MENTOR? CONTACT SERENA CLINE AT SCLINE@ WARNERPACIFIC.EDU OR 503-517-1026.
advocacy, as well as having conversations about larger issues like life satisfaction and financial stability. Serena Cline summarized what makes the Alumni Mentoring Program work. “It’s really self-directed because each student is going to need something different.” While her work is focused on making matches, providing optional topics for discussion, and occasionally checking in with the pairs to see how they’re doing, how it flies is dependent on the commitment between the mentors and mentees. “I do ask that meetings, if possible, take place on campus so that it’s easier for the student. I think it builds a lot of energy when you see the mentoring happening at Tabor Grind or in the Dining Hall,” said Cline. Of course, Cline’s ultimate goal for the program extends beyond connecting alumni and students today, it’s about laying a groundwork for the future. “In every job I’ve had, I can point to a person who helped me get the interview. Someone made a call or sent an email on my behalf. I had to get the job once I was in the interview, but my professional networks have helped me get a seat at the table.”
3,361,521
3,459,937
2006-2007
2007-2008
2008-2009
2009-2010
WHERE DOES THE MONEY COME FROM?
AUXILIARY SERVICES 14.4% CONTRIBUTIONS 6.3% INVESTMENT INCOME 2.6%
2013-2014
WHERE DOES THE MONEY GO?
AUXILIARY 15.7% STUDENT SUPPORT 21.4%
INSTITUTIONAL SUPPORT 17.4% ACADEMIC SUPPORT 4.1% PUBLIC SERVICE 0.6%
GRANTS 1.6% TUITION AND FEES 71.3%
OTHER 2.4%
INSTRUCTION 42.2%
NET OPERATIONAL VARIANCE 879,886
379,484 202,855
AT NSCC, RUBEN WAS RECOGNIZED FOR HIS OUTSTANDING LEADERSHIP IN PORTLAND PUBLIC SCHOOLS.
-3,673
-155,519 -303,211
- This is an excerpt from the original article by Emily Wintringham and Ashley Gorsek which was first published in the Knight Times on October 20, 2016. Photo by Stephanie Davis.
2012-2013
2010-2011
2011-2012
2012-2013
2013-2014
2014-2015
2015-2016
2016 AUDITED FINANCIALS Total Assets
$30,707,484
Total Liabilities
$14,205,812
Total Net Assets
$16,501,672
Total Liabilities and Net Assets
$30,707,484
BRYCE WHITE (LEFT) AND DEMARCUS BEST MEET IN THE TABOR GRIND.
PRESIDENT COOK ENJOYS LUNCH WITH STUDENTS IN THE EGTVEDT DINING HALL.
TOTAL ENDOWMENT VALUE 9,632,379 6,932,097
It all started with an idea.
RUBEN’S STORY American higher education is changing. As prospective students begin planning for college, they’re looking for institutions that will provide broad access to new technologies, cutting edge degree programs that will increase earning power in a complex economy, and a relational experience that will teach them to think critically and adapt fluidly to meet the needs of the community. In Oregon, shifting demographics throughout the state are opening the doors of our campuses to families and communities who have not had access to higher education in the past. We are blessed to serve students who bring with them rich histories and unique perspectives that are expanding our awareness and reshaping the mold of the college experience. Since my inauguration in 2009, my eyes have been focused on the road ahead, always thinking about how Warner Pacific College can grow into the future. These past seven years have seen many changes and with each change we are becoming better equipped to respond to the opportunities we see on the horizon. I am excited to report that 2016 has been a momentous year for the College, as we are making major strides in identifying opportunities for new programs to better serve today’s student. It has also been exciting to see our campus reach a tipping point in diversity wherein our incoming traditional class is comprised of 70% students of color. Our dedication to
serving students from diverse backgrounds is being noticed as Warner Pacific was recognized as the only four-year institution in the state of Oregon to be identified as an Emerging Hispanic Serving Institution by the HSI Center for Policy and Practice, as well as being tied for the #1 Most Diverse Campus in the West by U.S. News & World Report. Of course, as often happens in the process of moving, bumps and scrapes do occur. We have faced our share of challenges. However, we continue to focus on what God has ahead of us, exploring the many ways in which Warner Pacific College is poised to become the leader in Christ-centered, urban, liberal arts education. In the pages of this report, I am excited to celebrate some of the members of our community who embody the ethos of Warner Pacific College. These students and alumni are using their gifts in remarkable ways to further the mission and vision of the College. I am confident that we will continue to share the hope of Christ throughout Portland and the world as we raise up the next generation of diverse, urban leaders. In Christ,
Andrea P. Cook, Ph.D. President
The National Summit for Courageous Conversation (NSCC) brings together dedicated leaders for racial equity from around the world to engage in authentic and often difficult conversations about systemic racism and its impact on opportunity and achievement in schools, colleges, business, government and community life. The 2016 NSCC was held in Austin, Texas and featured inspiring speakers, distinguished international educators, and a host of equity practitioners from school districts, independent schools, universities, government agencies, and corporations who were prepared to share an insider perspective of their challenges and triumphs as they strive to achieve racial equity in their personal and professional contexts. One of these speakers was Warner Pacific sophomore, Ruben Estrada. Ruben, a pre-med major, was born in Santiago de Cuba and immigrated to the United States with his family when he was 15. His parents made the decision to leave Cuba to ensure their children would have an education that allowed them to choose a career path, rather than having one assigned. Arriving in America with little knowledge of the English language, the family faced obstacles from the start. Enrolled as a freshman at Grant High School in Portland, Ruben worked hard but found it extremely difficult to be successful in classes and in friendships
due to the language barrier. Through educational support programs, dedicated teachers, and his own determination, Ruben began to meet his goals in academics and became a leader for other immigrant students within his school community. He led the International Youth Leader Council, a student group focused on the experience of nonEnglish speakers in Portland Public Schools. His tireless efforts to advocate for himself and the immigrant community were noticed by organizers of the NSCC and Ruben was invited to share his passion on opening doors of access for bilingual learners at the 2016 event.
from success and educational growth. I proposed systematic solutions to help emerging bilingual student to overcome language, social, and economic barriers. These solutions will have tremendous impact in the future of many emerging bilingual students and their families.” Ruben, the first in his family to attend college, believes that he is creating a path for others in the immigrant community to achieve their dreams, especially his younger sister.
“It was an honor to participate in the 2016 National Courageous Conversation Summit. I spent a weekend with influential people who are leaders in the national education system of the United States. I had the opportunity to present about racial equality using my work with the International Youth Leader Council as an example. I focused the presentation on the experiences of immigrant students during their first years in American schools. I informed superintendents, administrators, and educators the ways that our education system can often hold back emerging bilingual students
Since incoming freshmen at the College are already working with Peer Mentors through the First-Year Learning Communities (FYLCs), it was decided to have the Alumni Mentoring Program focus on supporting transfer students. Cline began to pair alumni and students based on vocational similarities so if a student was majoring in business, she would find an alum who was already working in the field.
7,690,731
2010-2011
2011-2012
10,883,738
11,443,291
2014-2015
2015-2016
5,260,225
Last summer, Serena Cline ’02, Director of Alumni Relations and Annual Giving for Warner Pacific was trying to think of new ways to engage alumni in the life and mission of the College. “I wanted to find ways they could bring their talents back to our campus, rather than just attending lunches and dinners,” said Cline. She knew there had to be a better way to re-establish contact with alumni than just calling to ask for financial contributions. On the advice of a consultant working with the College, Cline surveyed alumni and found that they were most excited about finding ways to help students in tangible ways. It seemed obvious that the next step was to survey students to find out what they were looking for, which is how the Warner Pacific Alumni Mentoring Program was born.
7,429,316
10,248,105
ALUMNI MENTORING PROGRAM Transfer student Bryce White and his mentor Demarcus Best ’04 have started meeting regularly this semester. “We have both played basketball for Warner Pacific,” Best said. “It’s the connection, you know, with a young person. I can give advice because I have been through a lot of the same things he’s going through.” Best and White meet a few times a month and talk about vocations and different pathways for the future. “I’ve learned the importance of networking; it’s been great to connect with someone in the professional field,” said White. And while he isn’t sure what his end goals will look like yet, he is talking to Best about his desire to work in the field of
INTERESTED IN BECOMING A MENTOR? CONTACT SERENA CLINE AT SCLINE@ WARNERPACIFIC.EDU OR 503-517-1026.
advocacy, as well as having conversations about larger issues like life satisfaction and financial stability. Serena Cline summarized what makes the Alumni Mentoring Program work. “It’s really self-directed because each student is going to need something different.” While her work is focused on making matches, providing optional topics for discussion, and occasionally checking in with the pairs to see how they’re doing, how it flies is dependent on the commitment between the mentors and mentees. “I do ask that meetings, if possible, take place on campus so that it’s easier for the student. I think it builds a lot of energy when you see the mentoring happening at Tabor Grind or in the Dining Hall,” said Cline. Of course, Cline’s ultimate goal for the program extends beyond connecting alumni and students today, it’s about laying a groundwork for the future. “In every job I’ve had, I can point to a person who helped me get the interview. Someone made a call or sent an email on my behalf. I had to get the job once I was in the interview, but my professional networks have helped me get a seat at the table.”
3,361,521
3,459,937
2006-2007
2007-2008
2008-2009
2009-2010
WHERE DOES THE MONEY COME FROM?
AUXILIARY SERVICES 14.4% CONTRIBUTIONS 6.3% INVESTMENT INCOME 2.6%
2013-2014
WHERE DOES THE MONEY GO?
AUXILIARY 15.7% STUDENT SUPPORT 21.4%
INSTITUTIONAL SUPPORT 17.4% ACADEMIC SUPPORT 4.1% PUBLIC SERVICE 0.6%
GRANTS 1.6% TUITION AND FEES 71.3%
OTHER 2.4%
INSTRUCTION 42.2%
NET OPERATIONAL VARIANCE 879,886
379,484 202,855
AT NSCC, RUBEN WAS RECOGNIZED FOR HIS OUTSTANDING LEADERSHIP IN PORTLAND PUBLIC SCHOOLS.
-3,673
-155,519 -303,211
- This is an excerpt from the original article by Emily Wintringham and Ashley Gorsek which was first published in the Knight Times on October 20, 2016. Photo by Stephanie Davis.
2012-2013
2010-2011
2011-2012
2012-2013
2013-2014
2014-2015
2015-2016
2016 AUDITED FINANCIALS Total Assets
$30,707,484
Total Liabilities
$14,205,812
Total Net Assets
$16,501,672
Total Liabilities and Net Assets
$30,707,484
BRYCE WHITE (LEFT) AND DEMARCUS BEST MEET IN THE TABOR GRIND.
PRESIDENT COOK ENJOYS LUNCH WITH STUDENTS IN THE EGTVEDT DINING HALL.
TOTAL ENDOWMENT VALUE 9,632,379 6,932,097
It all started with an idea.
RUBEN’S STORY American higher education is changing. As prospective students begin planning for college, they’re looking for institutions that will provide broad access to new technologies, cutting edge degree programs that will increase earning power in a complex economy, and a relational experience that will teach them to think critically and adapt fluidly to meet the needs of the community. In Oregon, shifting demographics throughout the state are opening the doors of our campuses to families and communities who have not had access to higher education in the past. We are blessed to serve students who bring with them rich histories and unique perspectives that are expanding our awareness and reshaping the mold of the college experience. Since my inauguration in 2009, my eyes have been focused on the road ahead, always thinking about how Warner Pacific College can grow into the future. These past seven years have seen many changes and with each change we are becoming better equipped to respond to the opportunities we see on the horizon. I am excited to report that 2016 has been a momentous year for the College, as we are making major strides in identifying opportunities for new programs to better serve today’s student. It has also been exciting to see our campus reach a tipping point in diversity wherein our incoming traditional class is comprised of 70% students of color. Our dedication to
serving students from diverse backgrounds is being noticed as Warner Pacific was recognized as the only four-year institution in the state of Oregon to be identified as an Emerging Hispanic Serving Institution by the HSI Center for Policy and Practice, as well as being tied for the #1 Most Diverse Campus in the West by U.S. News & World Report. Of course, as often happens in the process of moving, bumps and scrapes do occur. We have faced our share of challenges. However, we continue to focus on what God has ahead of us, exploring the many ways in which Warner Pacific College is poised to become the leader in Christ-centered, urban, liberal arts education. In the pages of this report, I am excited to celebrate some of the members of our community who embody the ethos of Warner Pacific College. These students and alumni are using their gifts in remarkable ways to further the mission and vision of the College. I am confident that we will continue to share the hope of Christ throughout Portland and the world as we raise up the next generation of diverse, urban leaders. In Christ,
Andrea P. Cook, Ph.D. President
The National Summit for Courageous Conversation (NSCC) brings together dedicated leaders for racial equity from around the world to engage in authentic and often difficult conversations about systemic racism and its impact on opportunity and achievement in schools, colleges, business, government and community life. The 2016 NSCC was held in Austin, Texas and featured inspiring speakers, distinguished international educators, and a host of equity practitioners from school districts, independent schools, universities, government agencies, and corporations who were prepared to share an insider perspective of their challenges and triumphs as they strive to achieve racial equity in their personal and professional contexts. One of these speakers was Warner Pacific sophomore, Ruben Estrada. Ruben, a pre-med major, was born in Santiago de Cuba and immigrated to the United States with his family when he was 15. His parents made the decision to leave Cuba to ensure their children would have an education that allowed them to choose a career path, rather than having one assigned. Arriving in America with little knowledge of the English language, the family faced obstacles from the start. Enrolled as a freshman at Grant High School in Portland, Ruben worked hard but found it extremely difficult to be successful in classes and in friendships
due to the language barrier. Through educational support programs, dedicated teachers, and his own determination, Ruben began to meet his goals in academics and became a leader for other immigrant students within his school community. He led the International Youth Leader Council, a student group focused on the experience of nonEnglish speakers in Portland Public Schools. His tireless efforts to advocate for himself and the immigrant community were noticed by organizers of the NSCC and Ruben was invited to share his passion on opening doors of access for bilingual learners at the 2016 event.
from success and educational growth. I proposed systematic solutions to help emerging bilingual student to overcome language, social, and economic barriers. These solutions will have tremendous impact in the future of many emerging bilingual students and their families.” Ruben, the first in his family to attend college, believes that he is creating a path for others in the immigrant community to achieve their dreams, especially his younger sister.
“It was an honor to participate in the 2016 National Courageous Conversation Summit. I spent a weekend with influential people who are leaders in the national education system of the United States. I had the opportunity to present about racial equality using my work with the International Youth Leader Council as an example. I focused the presentation on the experiences of immigrant students during their first years in American schools. I informed superintendents, administrators, and educators the ways that our education system can often hold back emerging bilingual students
Since incoming freshmen at the College are already working with Peer Mentors through the First-Year Learning Communities (FYLCs), it was decided to have the Alumni Mentoring Program focus on supporting transfer students. Cline began to pair alumni and students based on vocational similarities so if a student was majoring in business, she would find an alum who was already working in the field.
7,690,731
2010-2011
2011-2012
10,883,738
11,443,291
2014-2015
2015-2016
5,260,225
Last summer, Serena Cline ’02, Director of Alumni Relations and Annual Giving for Warner Pacific was trying to think of new ways to engage alumni in the life and mission of the College. “I wanted to find ways they could bring their talents back to our campus, rather than just attending lunches and dinners,” said Cline. She knew there had to be a better way to re-establish contact with alumni than just calling to ask for financial contributions. On the advice of a consultant working with the College, Cline surveyed alumni and found that they were most excited about finding ways to help students in tangible ways. It seemed obvious that the next step was to survey students to find out what they were looking for, which is how the Warner Pacific Alumni Mentoring Program was born.
7,429,316
10,248,105
ALUMNI MENTORING PROGRAM Transfer student Bryce White and his mentor Demarcus Best ’04 have started meeting regularly this semester. “We have both played basketball for Warner Pacific,” Best said. “It’s the connection, you know, with a young person. I can give advice because I have been through a lot of the same things he’s going through.” Best and White meet a few times a month and talk about vocations and different pathways for the future. “I’ve learned the importance of networking; it’s been great to connect with someone in the professional field,” said White. And while he isn’t sure what his end goals will look like yet, he is talking to Best about his desire to work in the field of
INTERESTED IN BECOMING A MENTOR? CONTACT SERENA CLINE AT SCLINE@ WARNERPACIFIC.EDU OR 503-517-1026.
advocacy, as well as having conversations about larger issues like life satisfaction and financial stability. Serena Cline summarized what makes the Alumni Mentoring Program work. “It’s really self-directed because each student is going to need something different.” While her work is focused on making matches, providing optional topics for discussion, and occasionally checking in with the pairs to see how they’re doing, how it flies is dependent on the commitment between the mentors and mentees. “I do ask that meetings, if possible, take place on campus so that it’s easier for the student. I think it builds a lot of energy when you see the mentoring happening at Tabor Grind or in the Dining Hall,” said Cline. Of course, Cline’s ultimate goal for the program extends beyond connecting alumni and students today, it’s about laying a groundwork for the future. “In every job I’ve had, I can point to a person who helped me get the interview. Someone made a call or sent an email on my behalf. I had to get the job once I was in the interview, but my professional networks have helped me get a seat at the table.”
3,361,521
3,459,937
2006-2007
2007-2008
2008-2009
2009-2010
WHERE DOES THE MONEY COME FROM?
AUXILIARY SERVICES 14.4% CONTRIBUTIONS 6.3% INVESTMENT INCOME 2.6%
2013-2014
WHERE DOES THE MONEY GO?
AUXILIARY 15.7% STUDENT SUPPORT 21.4%
INSTITUTIONAL SUPPORT 17.4% ACADEMIC SUPPORT 4.1% PUBLIC SERVICE 0.6%
GRANTS 1.6% TUITION AND FEES 71.3%
OTHER 2.4%
INSTRUCTION 42.2%
NET OPERATIONAL VARIANCE 879,886
379,484 202,855
AT NSCC, RUBEN WAS RECOGNIZED FOR HIS OUTSTANDING LEADERSHIP IN PORTLAND PUBLIC SCHOOLS.
-3,673
-155,519 -303,211
- This is an excerpt from the original article by Emily Wintringham and Ashley Gorsek which was first published in the Knight Times on October 20, 2016. Photo by Stephanie Davis.
2012-2013
2010-2011
2011-2012
2012-2013
2013-2014
2014-2015
2015-2016
2016 AUDITED FINANCIALS Total Assets
$30,707,484
Total Liabilities
$14,205,812
Total Net Assets
$16,501,672
Total Liabilities and Net Assets
$30,707,484
Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Portland, OR Permit No. 527
2219 SE 68th Avenue Portland, OR 97215 503.517.1020 warnerpacific.edu RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED
The hope that Rhona found in Christ continues to drive her work today. She is the Director of Outreach for Transitional Youth, a faith-based ministry to the homeless. As she built relationships with vulnerable youth, Rhona began to see a new opportunity for support emerging through a non-profit job training program she calls Braking Cycles.
RHONA’S STORY Rhona Mahl has worked with youth who live on the margins in Portland for her entire career. She has witnessed firsthand the cycles of abuse, poverty, addiction, sex trafficking, homelessness, and hopelessness that entangle the lives of young people in our city and she has seen how easily these cycles can break the spirits of those she serves. The path of homelessness deeply resonates with Rhona because there was a time when she found herself living on the streets. A 2007 Human Development graduate of the Warner Pacific Adult Degree Program, Rhona was born in New Orleans. For the first seven years of her life, Rhona, along with her mother and three of her six siblings called the family car home. Her early years were marked by abuse and neglect which led her to try and combat her loneliness with drugs at the age of 12. Rhona was a runaway by 13 and at age 14 she became a mother. Becoming a mother, even at such a young age, gave Rhona a sense of hope for the first time in her life. She remembers crying out to God, daring Him to prove His existence in the midst of her brokenness; in her pain, He revealed Himself. Strengthened by a new-found faith, Rhona found the hope that she needed to fight for herself and most importantly, for the life of her baby girl. Trying to escape the cycles of abuse, violence, and family addictions led Rhona to eventually move to Portland, the city she now calls home.
Braking Cycles is a unique social entrepreneurial endeavor that celebrates and taps into the love of Portland's beautiful bike, coffee, and art cultures to raise awareness of the destructive cycles that keep so many young people trapped and hopeless. Part coffee cart, part bike shop, Braking Cycles provides meals, transportation, job training, and practical apprenticeships to Portland’s most vulnerable youth in a hope-filled environment. Rhona believes that this is where healthy self-sufficiency can become the new cycle. Having moved around to various sites across the city for more than 2 years, Braking Cycles is preparing to settle into their first brick and mortar store on SE 33rd and Powell in January 2017. Rhona is currently working on organizing penny drives to create a beautiful and unique floor at the new café, the penny has become an unofficial symbol of Braking Cycles. “Pennies are much like the youth we serve; they are often times tossed aside, stepped over, forgotten and not valued. How often have we intentionally stepped over pennies on the sidewalk? Just as often we step over youth caught in the traps and addictions of the streets. We want to change that, and we believe you can help! By exposing the lie, and seeing the real value of our youth, we will not only raise the bar in our own belief systems, we can make a tremendous impact on the community around us in sharing this simple story. The next time you see a penny on the street, stop and pick it up, think about the hundreds of youth on the streets of Portland, and consider what you can do to make a difference… one penny at a time!” Learn more at brakingcycles.org.
MAKE AN IMPACT AT WARNERPACIFIC.EDU/GIVE
INCOMING STUDENT SNAPSHOT
70%
59%
STUDENTS OF COLOR
FIRST-GENERATION STUDENTS
8:1
14
STUDENT TO FACULTY RATIO
AVERAGE CLASS SIZE
10,000+ ALUMNI WORLDWIDE
WP ALUMNI RESIDE IN
50 STATES
& 29 COUNTRIES ACROSS THE GLOBE
2016 ACCOLADES • Only 4-Year Institution in Oregon to be Listed as an Emerging Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) by HSI Center for Policy and Practice (Emerging Category) • Educational Equity Award – Oregon; Oregon Campus Compact • #1 (tied) Most Diverse Campus – West; U.S. News & World Report, 2017 Edition • #6 Regional College – West; U.S. News & World Report, 2017 Edition • #7 Best Value School – West; U.S. News & World Report, 2017 Edition • A Best College for Veterans; U.S. News & World Report, 2017 Edition • Best College for Online Business Degrees; College Start • Best Online Degree Program in Oregon; BestColleges.com • #2 in Portland for Online Degree Offerings; Great Value Colleges • Top 5 Education Program – Oregon; ToBecomeATeacher.org • A Best Christian College; College Choice • 20 Knights Earned Academic All-Conference Recognition from the CCC
PRESIDENT’S REPORT 2016
I EXPERIENCED A LOT OF DISCRIMINATION IN SCHOOL AS I WAS GROWING UP, A LOT OF STUDENTS AND STAFF DIDN’T WANT TO ENGAGE IN CONVERSATIONS ABOUT DIVERSITY. BEING A MEXICAN-AMERICAN STUDENT IN A PRIMARILY WHITE SCHOOL CREATED MANY DISADVANTAGES FOR ME. MANY PEOPLE DOUBTED MY PURSUIT IN EDUCATION BUT THE STEREOTYPICAL COMMENTS BUILT RESILIENCE WITHIN ME. I AM NOW A PROUD SENIOR AT WARNER PACIFIC, WHERE I AM NOT DISCRIMINATED AGAINST BECAUSE OF MY CULTURE, ETHNICITY, OR SKIN COLOR. I AM BLESSED BECAUSE I AM ABLE TO FEEL COMFORTABLE WITH WHO I AM WHILE BEING FULLY SUPPORTED BY MY SCHOOL COMMUNITY. - STEPHANIE REYES-CHAVEZ ’17 SOCIAL WORK MAJOR
C H R IST-C E NT ERED | URBAN | LIBERAL ARTS | D IVERSE
INVESTING IN STUDENTS ADVANCING THE CITY
2016
FINANCIALS
Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Portland, OR Permit No. 527
2219 SE 68th Avenue Portland, OR 97215 503.517.1020 warnerpacific.edu RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED
The hope that Rhona found in Christ continues to drive her work today. She is the Director of Outreach for Transitional Youth, a faith-based ministry to the homeless. As she built relationships with vulnerable youth, Rhona began to see a new opportunity for support emerging through a non-profit job training program she calls Braking Cycles.
RHONA’S STORY Rhona Mahl has worked with youth who live on the margins in Portland for her entire career. She has witnessed firsthand the cycles of abuse, poverty, addiction, sex trafficking, homelessness, and hopelessness that entangle the lives of young people in our city and she has seen how easily these cycles can break the spirits of those she serves. The path of homelessness deeply resonates with Rhona because there was a time when she found herself living on the streets. A 2007 Human Development graduate of the Warner Pacific Adult Degree Program, Rhona was born in New Orleans. For the first seven years of her life, Rhona, along with her mother and three of her six siblings called the family car home. Her early years were marked by abuse and neglect which led her to try and combat her loneliness with drugs at the age of 12. Rhona was a runaway by 13 and at age 14 she became a mother. Becoming a mother, even at such a young age, gave Rhona a sense of hope for the first time in her life. She remembers crying out to God, daring Him to prove His existence in the midst of her brokenness; in her pain, He revealed Himself. Strengthened by a new-found faith, Rhona found the hope that she needed to fight for herself and most importantly, for the life of her baby girl. Trying to escape the cycles of abuse, violence, and family addictions led Rhona to eventually move to Portland, the city she now calls home.
Braking Cycles is a unique social entrepreneurial endeavor that celebrates and taps into the love of Portland's beautiful bike, coffee, and art cultures to raise awareness of the destructive cycles that keep so many young people trapped and hopeless. Part coffee cart, part bike shop, Braking Cycles provides meals, transportation, job training, and practical apprenticeships to Portland’s most vulnerable youth in a hope-filled environment. Rhona believes that this is where healthy self-sufficiency can become the new cycle. Having moved around to various sites across the city for more than 2 years, Braking Cycles is preparing to settle into their first brick and mortar store on SE 33rd and Powell in January 2017. Rhona is currently working on organizing penny drives to create a beautiful and unique floor at the new café, the penny has become an unofficial symbol of Braking Cycles. “Pennies are much like the youth we serve; they are often times tossed aside, stepped over, forgotten and not valued. How often have we intentionally stepped over pennies on the sidewalk? Just as often we step over youth caught in the traps and addictions of the streets. We want to change that, and we believe you can help! By exposing the lie, and seeing the real value of our youth, we will not only raise the bar in our own belief systems, we can make a tremendous impact on the community around us in sharing this simple story. The next time you see a penny on the street, stop and pick it up, think about the hundreds of youth on the streets of Portland, and consider what you can do to make a difference… one penny at a time!” Learn more at brakingcycles.org.
MAKE AN IMPACT AT WARNERPACIFIC.EDU/GIVE
INCOMING STUDENT SNAPSHOT
70%
59%
STUDENTS OF COLOR
FIRST-GENERATION STUDENTS
8:1
14
STUDENT TO FACULTY RATIO
AVERAGE CLASS SIZE
10,000+ ALUMNI WORLDWIDE
WP ALUMNI RESIDE IN
50 STATES
& 29 COUNTRIES ACROSS THE GLOBE
2016 ACCOLADES • Only 4-Year Institution in Oregon to be Listed as an Emerging Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) by HSI Center for Policy and Practice (Emerging Category) • Educational Equity Award – Oregon; Oregon Campus Compact • #1 (tied) Most Diverse Campus – West; U.S. News & World Report, 2017 Edition • #6 Regional College – West; U.S. News & World Report, 2017 Edition • #7 Best Value School – West; U.S. News & World Report, 2017 Edition • A Best College for Veterans; U.S. News & World Report, 2017 Edition • Best College for Online Business Degrees; College Start • Best Online Degree Program in Oregon; BestColleges.com • #2 in Portland for Online Degree Offerings; Great Value Colleges • Top 5 Education Program – Oregon; ToBecomeATeacher.org • A Best Christian College; College Choice • 20 Knights Earned Academic All-Conference Recognition from the CCC
PRESIDENT’S REPORT 2016
I EXPERIENCED A LOT OF DISCRIMINATION IN SCHOOL AS I WAS GROWING UP, A LOT OF STUDENTS AND STAFF DIDN’T WANT TO ENGAGE IN CONVERSATIONS ABOUT DIVERSITY. BEING A MEXICAN-AMERICAN STUDENT IN A PRIMARILY WHITE SCHOOL CREATED MANY DISADVANTAGES FOR ME. MANY PEOPLE DOUBTED MY PURSUIT IN EDUCATION BUT THE STEREOTYPICAL COMMENTS BUILT RESILIENCE WITHIN ME. I AM NOW A PROUD SENIOR AT WARNER PACIFIC, WHERE I AM NOT DISCRIMINATED AGAINST BECAUSE OF MY CULTURE, ETHNICITY, OR SKIN COLOR. I AM BLESSED BECAUSE I AM ABLE TO FEEL COMFORTABLE WITH WHO I AM WHILE BEING FULLY SUPPORTED BY MY SCHOOL COMMUNITY. - STEPHANIE REYES-CHAVEZ ’17 SOCIAL WORK MAJOR
C H R IST-C E NT ERED | URBAN | LIBERAL ARTS | D IVERSE
INVESTING IN STUDENTS ADVANCING THE CITY
2016
FINANCIALS