Andrews University Agenda

Andrews University Agenda http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/ News and Events at Andrews University en-us Copyright 2024, Andrews University Sun, 22 Dec 2024 10:50:00 +0000 Sun, 22 Dec 2024 10:50:00 +0000 webmaster@andrews.edu webmaster@andrews.edu Professor Joins Eminent Religious Research Program http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/66751 <p> This fall, Kevin Burton, director of the Center for Adventist Research and associate professor of church history, became the first Adventist historian to be admitted to the Young Scholars in American Religion (YSAR) program at Indiana University Indianapolis. The highly competitive program, which supports early career scholars in their professional development, is housed within the <a href="https://raac.indianapolis.iu.edu">Center for the Study of Religion and American Culture</a>, the “oldest, largest, and premier center studying religion & American culture.”</p> <p> Ten individuals were selected to join the 2024–2026 YSAR cohort after a thorough evaluation of their application narratives, CVs and letters of recommendation. Burton, who completed his doctorate in American religious history through Florida State University in 2023, notes, “It is very meaningful for me to be in the YSAR program because it strongly affirms my professional career and academic work.” Burton’s main area of study is the relationship between minority religions and evangelicalism in the antebellum United States, particularly in reference to politics, race and gender.</p> <p> The program will provide Burton with opportunities to connect with leading scholars in the field of American religious history. Through workshops and regular sessions, the cohort will grow their teaching skills, strengthen class syllabi, and support each other’s ongoing scholarship. They will also be expected to publish their research in an academic venue. “It will enhance my teaching and help me produce a higher quality of scholarship,” Burton affirms.</p> <p> In addition to these avenues for personal growth, Burton also anticipates the opportunity to bring the Adventist church into the wider field of religious history studies. “I am excited to represent Andrews University and Seventh-day Adventism through the YSAR program because I believe that Adventists (and Andrews) have made a significant difference in the world,” he says. Burton aims to write about Adventist history for non-Adventist audiences, promoting a better understanding of Adventism and its impact on the world.</p> <p> “Adventist history is often written without any discussion of broader events and almost never situated within that context—we don’t really know where Adventists ‘fit’ in the broader history of America and how they have engaged the broader culture,” Burton explains. “The YSAR program provides us with an excellent opportunity to resolve these issues and help everyone better understand who the Adventists are and how the denomination has helped create the world in which we all live.”</p> <p> Burton looks forward to these new opportunities for connection and exposure within his field of study. He also hopes that Andrews and the Center for Adventist Research can provide important resources for other historians of varying backgrounds. “Many scholars, including non-Adventist historians, would benefit from the archive we have here on Andrews University’s campus,” he states. “I believe my participation in the YSAR program will help benefit the broader academic community.” </p> Thu, 19 Dec 2024 12:03:49 +0000 Nielsen Lending Library Supports Leadership http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/66748 <p> This year, the Andrews University School of Leadership launched the Nielsen Lending Library (NLL), a collection of approximately 500 texts on topics including K–12 administration, higher education administration, qualitative and quantitative research, and faith-centric leadership. The library was established by the family of Arne P. Nielsen, former vice president for education for the North American Division (NAD), in honor of his passing earlier this year.</p> <p> The library was launched in July 2024, during the school’s graduate student orientation event. “The idea of this unique and incredibly valuable new resource is to encourage graduate students in need to 'borrow' books they may need, and then return them after they have used them for a course or specific research purpose,” shares Doctor of Leadership program director Sharon Aka.</p> <p> Nielsen served the Adventist community in the areas of education and leadership throughout his life. Born in Ghana to missionaries from Denmark, he graduated from Andrews Academy and later Andrews University with a Bachelor of Science in physical education/health in 1983. His first teaching job was at Mount Pisgah Academy in North Carolina, teaching physical education, health and biology lab; coaching gymnastics; and serving as boys’ dean. Nielsen later became principal at Mount Pisgah, serving from 1991–1996 while also earning a Master of Arts in school administration at Western Carolina University. After this, he served for seven years as principal and business manager for Maxwell Adventist Academy in Nairobi, Kenya.</p> <p> Nielsen was superintendent of education in the Idaho Conference from November 2003 to July 2006, then superintendent of education in the Florida Conference until December 2010. After that, he became vice president for Integrated Youth Ministries in the Florida Conference, overseeing Youth and Young Adult Ministries, Children’s and Family Ministries, Camp Ministries and the education department.</p> <p> After transitioning to work at the NAD, Nielsen served as director of secondary education and accreditation from 2014–2018 and later as the vice president for education from 2018 until his passing. Nielsen managed numerous department initiatives at the NAD, including school accreditation visits for the Guam-Micronesia mission schools; supporting and advocating for the development of a mental health website, mental health training for educators, and NAD social-emotional standards; developing the Grade 1–2 Encounter Bible program for NAD schools; and co-founding the international Encounter Bible committee with the Australian/New Zealand Union.</p> <p> During his time at the NAD, Nielsen earned his PhD in leadership from Andrews University with his dissertation "Coaching and Being Coached: A Qualitative Study of the Experiences of Education Leaders in the Florida Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.” He continued to be involved at Andrews as an advisor to the Andrews University Board of Trustees and chair of the Griggs International Academy Board.</p> <p> The Nielsen Lending Library can be found in the School of Leadership and has already aided multiple graduate students since its opening. In addition to the 325 texts gifted from Nielsen’s professional and home library, the collection has continued to expand.</p> <p> “We are going to extend the life of this library by seeking additional donations of recent, relevant books from graduate students who have graduated from one of our many programs and no longer need textbooks,” says Aka. She shares that several alumni, faculty and graduate students have already come forward and committed to contributing to the NLL so that its benefits can continue to aid students in the years to come.</p> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "> # # #</div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: ">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "> To learn more about studying at Andrews University, please visit <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/admissions/" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration-line: none;">Enrollment</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: ">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "> If you're interested in joining the Andrews University team, please see the list of available <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/services/hr/job_seekers/index.html" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration-line: none;">positions</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: ">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "> We invite you to support the Andrews University mission by making a <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/services/development/" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration-line: none;">donation</a>.</div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: ">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "> Please read more about great things happening at Andrews University <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/agenda/feed/Agenda:+Campus+News/" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</div> Wed, 18 Dec 2024 12:01:45 +0000 Andrews Recognized for Creation Care Efforts http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/66703 <p> Andrews University, led by its Creation Care Council, has received a distinction among higher education institutions and a national grant for the environmental efforts it currently makes and for its plans to further such environmentalist action. The Creation Care Council, founded by University President John Wesley Taylor V, is “tasked with identifying ways in which our university can best fulfill its mission to care for God’s creation,” according to a memo from the <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/administration/president/fromtheheart/creationcare.html">Office of the President</a>.</p> <p> Andrews University has been named an affiliate member of the Higher Education Climate Leadership Network, a group created by the nonprofit organization Second Nature that focuses on helping higher education institutions solve sustainability issues. This recognition provides the Creation Care Council with a national network of resources and opportunities with other universities and colleges across the United States in matters relating to environmental stewardship and climate action.</p> <p> Locally, Andrews University is a member of the Michigan Climate Action Network and is in the process of joining the United Nations Climate Change and Universities Partnerships Programme. These initiatives provide opportunities for underserved students and are funded by Title III grants. <a href="https://science.nasa.gov/climate-change/evidence/">NASA</a> notes, “There is unequivocal evidence that Earth is warming at an unprecedented rate. Human activity is the principal cause. … Earth-orbiting satellites and new technologies have helped scientists see the big picture, collecting many different types of information about our planet and its climate all over the world. These data, collected over many years, reveal the signs and patterns of a changing climate.”</p> <p> Andrews University was also <a href="https://secondnature.org/press-release/eleven-colleges-and-universities-receive-75000-in-catalyst-grants-from-second-nature-to-support-climate-action-projects/">one of 11</a> schools in the country awarded a 2024 Second Nature Catalyst Grant, which provides $7,500 to support climate action initiatives. The University’s proposal, written by Padma Tadi Uppala, associate dean for research and creative scholarship in the College of Health & Human Services, professor in the School of Population Health, Nutrition & Wellness, and a member of the Creation Care Council, is to develop a pilot hydroelectric project to generate clean renewable energy for the campus by using the constant water flow of the St. Joseph River.</p> <p> According to the grant proposal, in addition to providing the University with a cleaner energy source, this hydroelectric project could result in “an estimated annual savings of about $1,000 per turbine for the university.” This projection is based on an estimated turbine output of 14 kilowatts an hour.</p> <p> During a recent presentation by Uppala, Taylor and Katherine Koudele, chair of the Department of Sustainable Agriculture and professor of animal science, during the <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/agenda/66662/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=agenda-2024-11-22">2024 Andrews Autumn Conference on Religion and Science</a>, several projections were made concerning the hydroelectric project. The University is expected to reduce its carbon emissions by 4,395 pounds annually, and there are hopes that this technology can be shared with neighboring Berrien County communities that also live alongside the St. Joseph River. In the grant proposal, Uppala also noted that the use of hydroelectric sources is the best renewable energy option for Andrews because its geographic location limits the effectiveness of wind and solar power sources.</p> <p> Plans are currently being developed for the construction and implementation of the turbine system. Matías Soto, an adjunct faculty member of Andrews’ School of Engineering and the director of the Innovation & Entrepreneurship program, was instrumental in crafting the hydroelectric project. He shared that the University is still waiting “to obtain government permits for design and construction of this project.”</p> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> # # #</div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> To learn more about studying at Andrews University, please visit <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/admissions/" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration-line: none;">Enrollment</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> If you're interested in joining the Andrews University team, please see the list of available <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/services/hr/job_seekers/index.html" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration-line: none;">positions</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> We invite you to support the Andrews University mission by making a <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/services/development/" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration-line: none;">donation</a>.</div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> Please read more about great things happening at Andrews University <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/agenda/feed/Agenda:+Campus+News/" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</div> Thu, 05 Dec 2024 17:32:07 +0000 Student Team to Present at NASA Pitch Competition http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/66693 <p> Team AngelWings, a dynamic group of Andrews University students, has been chosen to participate in NASA’s prestigious Minority University Research and Education Project (MUREP) Innovation and Tech Transfer Idea Competition (MITTIC). The team will pitch their innovative concept during the Space2Pitch Competition at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas, representing the fall 2024 cohort.</p> <p> The team was selected for their creativity, technical prowess and strong alignment with MITTIC’s rigorous standards, a testament to the hard work and dedication of each team member. The members include Derek Feitosa, junior engineering major, Guichard Manigat, senior computer science major, Cin Thang, information systems and master of divinity student, David Brown, junior information systems major, Donnie Vanterpool, senior information systems major, and Jeremiah Bahadur, senior cybersecurity major.</p> <p> This selection places Andrews University on a national stage, emphasizing the institution’s commitment to fostering academic and practical excellence in STEM and innovation. It also highlights the University’s status as <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/agenda/65191">Minority Serving Institution</a>. According to NASA’s <a href="https://stemgateway.nasa.gov/s/course-offering/a0BSJ000000BQC5/mittic-space2pitch-fall-2024">website</a>, “NASA MITTIC is a business incubator/startup competition where teams of students from Minority Serving Institutions conceptualize and pitch their new, innovative uses for NASA intellectual property.” The team’s project, “AngelWings VTOL Drone Logistics,” addresses drone delivery challenges in underserved rural areas by utilizing NASA’s Near-Real Time Verification and Validation of Autonomous Flight Operations technology (TOP2-320).</p> <p> Unlike most drone services, which only deliver items, AngelWings also handles returns, such as sending unused medical supplies or faulty e-commerce products back to their source. This two-way delivery capability is essential for industries like healthcare and retail. The drones operate through a network of strategically placed hubs that allow for seamless delivery and pickup across wide areas. This ensures that packages are delivered faster and more efficiently, even in hard-to-reach rural areas. These features, combined with hybrid-powered drones and GPS-independent navigation, make AngelWings a game-changer for underserved regions.</p> <p> “We are immensely proud of Team AngelWings,” says Armand Poblete, professor of information systems, who has been instrumental in guiding the team’s journey. “Their project showcases not only their talent and determination but also the values and educational standards of Andrews University. Being selected to present at NASA’s Johnson Space Center is a monumental achievement, and we can’t wait to see the impact they will make in Houston.”</p> <p> The success of Team AngelWings exemplifies Andrews University’s commitment to nurturing creativity, critical thinking and cross-disciplinary collaboration. Faculty at Andrews provide invaluable mentorship and guidance, fostering an environment where students are encouraged to challenge themselves, pursue ambitious goals and make meaningful contributions to society. Each student has access to a variety of innovative degree programs, designed to equip them with cutting-edge skills and real-world experiences that make a difference in competitive industries and global communities.</p> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> # # #</div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> To learn more about studying at Andrews University, please visit <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/admissions/" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration-line: none;">Enrollment</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> If you're interested in joining the Andrews University team, please see the list of available <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/services/hr/job_seekers/index.html" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration-line: none;">positions</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> We invite you to support the Andrews University mission by making a <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/services/development/" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration-line: none;">donation</a>.</div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> Please read more about great things happening at Andrews University <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/agenda/feed/Agenda:+Campus+News/" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</div> Wed, 04 Dec 2024 11:58:33 +0000 Department of Music "Christmas Extravaganza" http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/66676 <p> The Andrews University Department of Music will present its “Christmas Extravaganza" concert on Dec. 7 at 7:30 p.m. in the Howard Performing Arts Center. A repeat performance will also take place on Dec. 8.</p> <p> The event will feature the University Singers and Chorale under the direction of Stephen Zork, the Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Marc Élysée and the Wind Symphony under the direction of Denisse Santos. It will also include students from the piano studio of Chi Yong Yun and string ensembles from the studio of Carla Trynchuk.</p> <p> The concert will feature holiday favorites such as “Of the Father’s Love Begotten and “Patapan,” scenes from Tchaikovsky’s “Nutcracker Suite,” and Leroy Anderson’s “Sleigh Ride.</p> <p> Tickets can be purchased at <a href="http://howard.andrews.edu">howard.andrews.edu</a>. Prices are $8.50 for general admission and $6.50 for students and seniors (limit two tickets per student ID). For more information, contact the Howard Box Office at 269-471-3560. </p> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> # # #</div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> To learn more about studying at Andrews University, please visit <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/admissions/" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration-line: none;">Enrollment</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> If you're interested in joining the Andrews University team, please see the list of available <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/services/hr/job_seekers/index.html" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration-line: none;">positions</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> We invite you to support the Andrews University mission by making a <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/services/development/" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration-line: none;">donation</a>.</div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> Please read more about great things happening at Andrews University <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/agenda/feed/Agenda:+Campus+News/" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</div> Wed, 27 Nov 2024 09:27:28 +0000 Volunteers Prepare Over 6,000 Gifts for Prisoners http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/66672 <p> On Oct. 27, over 500 Andrews University students, faculty and community members gathered for the third annual “Christmas Behind Bars” service event. During the project, which took place on the Andrews University campus, volunteers packed thousands of gift bags with snacks, inspirational literature and messages of encouragement for incarcerated individuals. This year’s program marked a milestone as volunteers worked to prepare over 6,300 packages destined for inmates across Nebraska’s state prisons. The impact of the event went beyond providing treats; it offered a message of hope and connection for those spending the holiday season behind bars.</p> <p> The vision of Christmas Behind Bars is rooted in the personal journey of its founder, Lemuel Vega, who now serves as the volunteer coordinator. Vega, who struggled with drug addiction and spent time in prison himself, found faith through an Adventist pastor’s visit to his hospital room. Reflecting on his own transformation, Vega shared, “I got down on my knees and said, ‘Dear Jesus, please help me. I want to quit, but I can’t.’” His journey eventually led him to establish Christmas Behind Bars almost three decades ago, beginning with 350 packages for inmates at a local county jail. Since then, the project has grown exponentially, delivering thousands of packages each year across multiple states, including Indiana, Kentucky and Alabama. Vega explained, “Today we are packaging over 6,300 packages. Every inmate in the state of Nebraska will receive a package; their lives will be touched and encouraged for Christ because of the effort right here at Andrews University.”</p> <p> In its early years, Christmas Behind Bars was sustained by contributions from Vega’s grocery business, which he operated out of his van. The ministry’s growth required overcoming numerous challenges, including resistance from prison authorities. Vega recounted one particular story where persistent prayer led to a breakthrough: “The warden didn’t want the packages. Every morning we would pray. We said, ‘Lord, we know you can make a way, but not our will. Thy will be done.’” When a new warden took charge, doors finally opened, allowing the program to expand to thousands of inmates. The project has since become a nationwide initiative, operating solely on individual donations.</p> <p> The annual event at Andrews University is a testament to the University's commitment to fostering service and community involvement among its students. Teela Ruehle, director of Student Missions and service projects at Andrews, shared her excitement about the event, describing it as “one of my favorite projects.” Ruehle sees the event as a powerful opportunity for students to experience the importance of service. She noted, “It’s huge for every person to experience serving. This is a way to open their eyes to volunteering, and let’s be real, God called us to serve.” Ruehle emphasized the emotional impact that these packages can have on recipients, explaining that each bag contains a message that can “open their eyes to the love of Jesus Christ.”</p> <p> Esther Knott, director of the InMinistry Center at Andrews University’s Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary, was instrumental in securing funds and organizing this year’s event. Knott helped raise $8,000 from various sources, including the North American Division’s Compassion Fund, campus ministries, and local churches like the Village Seventh-day Adventist Church and Pioneer Memorial Church. Knott recalled, “It was the challenge of getting people to come originally; we were concerned that we wouldn't have enough people.” Nonetheless, more than 500 volunteers came together to support the cause, each wearing name tags that fostered a sense of community as they worked side-by-side.</p> <p> Knott also initiated a collaboration with Christmas Behind Bars earlier in the year, during Andrews University’s annual employee Fall Fellowship. The University provided over 300 Andrews Study Bibles for individuals at a women’s correctional facility in Illinois. At the event, employees and their families wrote scripture passages, references for readers to look up, personal notes and signed their first names in the Bibles, which were included in care packages. Knott also had the opportunity to help Vega distribute the Bibles to women at the correctional facility. “One woman said that she hadn’t had a Bible for 10 years,” she recalled. “She lost hers when her house burned down.”</p> <p> Beyond meeting a logistical need, these events have had a lasting impact on those who participated. Knott observed that service events on campus provide a unique opportunity for community building; for example, offering faculty a chance to work with students in a new way beyond in the classroom. “As a faculty member on campus, when my seminary students are here, I get to see who steps in because they see a need,” Knott shared. While working together, volunteers get a glimpse of the profound impact their efforts have, not just in the moment but also in the lives of those who receive these packages.</p> <p> For many students, Christmas Behind Bars is a first step into the world of volunteerism. Ruehle highlighted the significance of this experience, noting that “a lot of our students come here and they haven’t volunteered before, and this is a great way to just open that door and realize you can do something to impact others, no matter how small.” She explained that what may seem like “just putting candy in a bag” is actually “bigger than that.” Each package represents a message of care and compassion, potentially touching the life of someone who feels forgotten.</p> <p> As volunteers packed bag after bag, the atmosphere was filled with joy, purpose and the spirit of the season. While the event concluded in just a few hours, the message of hope and compassion sent out in each package will resonate in prisons throughout Nebraska. Through its partnership with Christmas Behind Bars, Andrews University has helped spread a message of love and grace to those who may need it most.</p> <p> In the words of Vega, “There’s lots of ways that people can be involved all throughout the year, but we focus here at Andrews this time of year.” With a vision rooted in personal transformation and a mission powered by faith, the Christmas Behind Bars project offers hope, even to those in the most difficult circumstances. </p> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> # # #</div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> To learn more about studying at Andrews University, please visit <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/admissions/" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration-line: none;">Enrollment</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> If you're interested in joining the Andrews University team, please see the list of available <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/services/hr/job_seekers/index.html" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration-line: none;">positions</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> We invite you to support the Andrews University mission by making a <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/services/development/" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration-line: none;">donation</a>.</div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> Please read more about great things happening at Andrews University <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/agenda/feed/Agenda:+Campus+News/" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</div> Thu, 21 Nov 2024 17:09:34 +0000 2024 Autumn Conference on Religion and Science http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/66662 <p> From Nov. 7–9, the Andrews University Office of Research & Creative Scholarship hosted the annual Autumn Conference on Religion and Science, with the theme of “Creation Care.” The free conference invited university students, researchers, professors and administrators to engage in discussions regarding biblical creation and its modern applications. Sigve Tonstad, an accomplished author and research professor at Loma Linda University, was the featured speaker.</p> <p> The opening plenary of the conference occurred on the evening of Nov. 7 in Buller Hall’s Newbold Auditorium. Tonstad gave a lecture titled “And Also Many Animals,” a reference to Jonah 4:11. In this verse, God desires even the animals of Nineveh to be spared from destruction despite the prophet Jonah’s fixation with the city’s potential annihilation. Noting that God cares for the upkeep of all forms of life, Tonstad also highlighted verses from Deuteronomy 5 and Leviticus 26, where God specifies that the need for Sabbath rest extends to animals and the land as well. He closed by encouraging attendees to consider how modern care for life ought to be aligned with God’s standards.</p> <p> The second day of the conference started with a devotional by Michael Campbell, the director of Archives, Statistics & Research within the North American Division of Seventh-day Adventists. Four sessions of presentations were given throughout the day, featuring presenters from Andrews University, AdventHealth University and Burman University. Presentation topics included student awareness of plant-based diets and environmental issues, the future of environmental sustainability, designs for creation care efforts, and connecting theological concepts to environmentalist values.</p> <p> In one of these sessions, Andrews University President John Wesley Taylor V, along with Katherine Koudele, chair of the Department of Sustainable Agriculture and professor of animal science, and Padma Tadi Uppala, associate dean for research and creative scholarship in the College of Health & Human Services and professor in the School of Population Health, Nutrition & Wellness, presented the current efforts that the University and its Creation Care Council are making to improve the campus’ ecological impact on the environment. Some of these creation care efforts in recent years include reducing food waste in the cafeteria, replacing light fixtures with more efficient LED bulbs, partnering with the faith-based nonprofit Solar Faithful to work to adopt solar power for campus buildings in the future, and educating students and Adventist youth on endangered environments and species.</p> <p> Martin Hanna, associate professor of systematic theology, led a Friday night vespers program to close the day’s sessions. The conference continued on Sabbath morning, Nov. 9, with Taylor and Willie E. Hucks II, assistant to the president for Mission & Culture, opening the day’s events in the Biology Amphitheater in Price Hall. Following the devotion, presentations on the intersectionality of faith and biology were given by Jessica Moerman, president of the Evangelical Environmental Network, Øystein LaBianca, senior research professor of anthropology at Andrews, William Miller, assistant professor of biology at Calvin University, and Sigve Tonstad.</p> <p> After a lunch break, a panel featuring the day’s four presenters discussed the various topics presented throughout the conference and how Christian universities and their communities ought to seek to improve their care of creation. The conference closed with worship and a supper in Price Hall, where participants had the opportunity to further discuss creation care topics and socialize.</p> <p> To read more about the Andrews Autumn Conference on Religion & Science and its presenters, please see the conference <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/services/research/research_events/conferences/andrews_autumn_conference/2024/autumn-conference-2024--draft-v-.pdf">program</a> and visit the Office of Research & Creative Scholarship’s <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/services/research/research_events/conferences/andrews_autumn_conference/2024/index.html">webpage</a>.</p> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> # # #</div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> To learn more about studying at Andrews University, please visit <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/admissions/" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration-line: none;">Enrollment</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> If you're interested in joining the Andrews University team, please see the list of available <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/services/hr/job_seekers/index.html" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration-line: none;">positions</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> We invite you to support the Andrews University mission by making a <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/services/development/" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration-line: none;">donation</a>.</div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> Please read more about great things happening at Andrews University <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/agenda/feed/Agenda:+Campus+News/" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</div> Wed, 20 Nov 2024 17:28:00 +0000 Andrews University Celebrates Its Veterans http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/66650 <p> In honor of Veterans Day on Nov. 11, Andrews University celebrated the lives and legacies of its veteran population through a series of special programs. Each event was created in line with the U.S. Veterans Administration’s 2024 theme of “A Legacy and Loyalty of Service.” One way Andrews University supports its diverse campus is through its encouragement and acknowledgment of the veterans within its community. Through its Office of Veterans Services, Andrews University supports those who have served their country.</p> <p> On Nov. 7, during the University’s weekly Faith360 service, Jeffrey Cordone, production executive of the Desmond Doss Foundation, was interviewed by Daniel Weber, chair of the Department of Visual Art, Communication & Design, regarding Doss’ life and legacy. Desmond Doss was a Seventh-day Adventist conscientious objector who enlisted during World War II as an unarmed medic. He saved an estimated 75 of his fellow American soldiers’ lives by refusing to leave wounded men during the Battle of Okinawa after his commanding officer ordered a retreat. Due to this and several exceptional efforts of service and heroics, Doss was awarded a Medal of Honor, two Bronze Star Medals and three Purple Hearts at the conclusion of the war.</p> <p> Cordone and the Desmond Doss Foundation are aiming to further Doss’ legacy through the publication of their web series called Desmond Doss “Edusodes,” a combination of the words “educational” and “episodes.” In the interview, Cordone explained that the Edusodes discuss the character traits of courage, conviction, integrity, humility, selflessness, faith and patriotism. More information about the Edusodes and other efforts of the Desmond Doss Foundation can be found on their <a href="https://desmonddossfoundation.org">website</a>.</p> <p> On Veterans Day, Nov. 11, Pastor Taariq Patel, University alumnus and U.S. Army veteran, led a morning worship service for employees at the Pioneer Memorial Church youth chapel and spoke about his own testimony of service. Later in the day, students were invited to write thank-you cards for veterans in the Campus Center lobby, and cupcakes were given out in honor of the holiday. In the evening, University veterans and their families were invited to a special supper in Buller Hall’s Randall Student Lounge, where they were recognized and thanked for their service. Additionally, throughout the week, the James White Library hosted a display of veteran-related books in its lobby.</p> <p> On Tuesday, Nov. 12, Henry McNeily III, U.S. Army veteran and master of divinity student, gave a contemporary testimony of his military service experience at an event for students. McNeily shared that through over a decade of service in the U.S. Army, he learned not only to be a good soldier and leader in the military but also to be a servant leader in all aspects of his life.</p> <p> “Good service has to be voluntary,” said McNeily. “Service might catch you when you’re not ready.” He explained that military service is far from glamorous, contrary to how some movies portray it. It can require long hours and tiring commitments, but the dedication to the mission and other people makes the experience more than worthwhile. McNeily additionally compared his military experience to domestic service, which he noted can also become isolating and lonely. However, he confirmed that the same dedication to serving others for the right reasons makes the effort worthwhile.</p> <p> Now retired from the military, McNeily has taken up new opportunities to serve God, his family, and others in need. He has worked as a pastor in various ministry efforts in Lusaka, Zambia, and he is answering a call to ministry by working toward his degree at the Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary. McNeily also works for the Berrien Regional Education Service Agency as a bus driver for special needs students, which he describes as “the most rewarding experience” he has had so far. He affirmed that while service can look different for each person, everyone has a unique opportunity to serve.</p> <p> Beyond these important Veterans Day events, Andrews University continues to prioritize service to its veteran population year-round. This year, the University again received Gold-Level Veteran-Friendly Status with the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency (MVAA). The status is based on the University’s “unwavering dedication to improving experiences for military-connected learners and to fostering innovation in support of veterans.”</p> <p> The MVAA awards gold, silver and bronze-level distinctions based on a strict set of criteria outlined by the organization. Andrews University and other schools that receive the highest status must meet at least six of the seven benchmarks:</p> <ol> <li> Established process for identification of current student veterans</li> <li> Veteran-specific website</li> <li> Active student veteran organization or club</li> <li> Veteran-specific career services, resources, advising and/or outcome monitoring</li> <li> On-campus veterans’ coordinator and/or designated staff point of contact</li> <li> System to evaluate and award academic credit based on prior military training and experience</li> <li> Monitoring and evaluation of student veteran academic retention, progress and graduation rates</li> </ol> <p> Fares Magesa, Andrews’ Veterans Affairs school certifying official (SCO), stated that he greatly enjoys working with and helping the veterans and families that join the Andrews community. He especially appreciates the generational aspect of his work. “I am honored to help facilitate and work with our student veteran population. In the work that our office does, we have forged friendships,” he said.</p> <p> The University is approved for certification of students eligible to receive educational assistance from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. The Andrews University <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/services/sfs/veterans/index.html">Office of Veterans Services</a> can be reached by email at <a href="mailto:veterans@andrews.edu">veterans@andrews.edu</a>.</p> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> # # #</div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> To learn more about studying at Andrews University, please visit <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/admissions/" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration-line: none;">Enrollment</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> If you're interested in joining the Andrews University team, please see the list of available <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/services/hr/job_seekers/index.html" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration-line: none;">positions</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> We invite you to support the Andrews University mission by making a <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/services/development/" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration-line: none;">donation</a>.</div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "IBM Plex Sans", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> Please read more about great things happening at Andrews University <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/agenda/feed/Agenda:+Campus+News/" style="box-sizing: border-box; background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration-line: none;">here</a>.</div> Thu, 14 Nov 2024 16:32:47 +0000