As the 2024–2025 academic year draws to a close, it’s an opportune moment to reflect on the individuals, organizations and events that helped shape this unforgettable chapter at Andrews University. From late-night, student-led worship to cultural showcases that brought the campus together, the people behind these moments remind us of our community's depth of connection and creativity. This article highlights a few voices and experiences that stood out this year—students who found belonging, purpose and inspiration through friendships and campus life.
When asked about her favorite people on campus, Jessica Teixeira (freshman, interior design) named Ashley Daluz, Daniel Mnaba, Lanaija Pirez, Jordan Anderson, Joya Hairston and Moriah Coleman. Some of these friendships, such as those with Ashley and Lanaija, trace back to childhood, while others were formed right here at Andrews. Jessica emphasized how meaningful these new connections have become, describing how much they’ve grown over the course of the year. Her favorite organizations were the Black Student Christian Forum (BSCF), particularly for their signature event—their banquet, the theme of which was “Jazzy Soiree”—and she believed that the team was very well put together and solidified and the Friday night vesper space known as Impact. In her own words she stated, “Ya ate, they did they lil thing.”
Daniel Mnaba (freshman, architecture) also highlighted BSCF as one of his favorite campus organizations, especially because of the AUnited Fashion Show in which he participated. He spoke highly of Freshmen Impact, a special vesper service led entirely by first-year students. Daniel noted how powerful it was to be part of the team that led both worship and the message. “Freshman Impact? It was a good event, y’all should’ve come for real,” he said. He also appreciated AUnited for its vibrant celebration of diverse cultures on campus.
Lanaija Pirez (junior, psychology) echoed similar sentiments. Her favorite organizations were BSCF and Impact, citing their creativity, organization and community spirit. Events like the Jazzy Soiree left a lasting impression. She also found a sense of belonging in the Deliverance Mass Choir, where she quickly formed meaningful relationships. Her favorite event of the year was the AUnited Fashion Show. “It was so nice,” she said. “I loved it. Everybody ate down”—a testament to the event’s excellence in showcasing global culture and style. Her favorite people included childhood friends Ashley Daluz and Jessica Teixeira and newer connections like Daniel Mnaba.
Joshua Callwood (senior, theology) approached the question from a different angle. While he noted that he wasn’t very involved in campus events or organizations, he spoke with deep appreciation for his favorite people—Simone Jones, Eryn Roper and Darren Louis. To him, these individuals stood out for their unwavering support and loyalty throughout his time at Andrews.
Samantha Flores (junior, music) shared a love for several events and organizations. As a member of the Andrews University Student Association (AUSA), she admitted a bit of bias but credited the organization with delivering memorable events such as the Barn Party, The Dating Game and a variety of mini pop-up experiences. Another standout event for her was the South Asian Student Association’s Cultural Night, which featured traditional foods, dancing and powerful cultural expression. When listing her favorite people, Samantha highlighted Nigel Emilaire for his exemplary leadership, as well as her Social Affairs Board (SAB) team—Jalanni Sylvester, Ariana Hughes, Taznir Smalling, Dean Caleb, Mariann Forbes, Madeline Pierre, Donnie Vanterpool and others—for their hard work and solid teamwork.
In addition to the student voices, it’s also important to acknowledge the role of faculty and mentors in shaping the Andrews experience.
“My favorite big experiences this year,” said Karl Bailey, professor of psychology, “were the two times I took undergraduate students to research conferences off-campus. Watching students engage with scholars in meaningful ways and belong as part of the scholarly community is a highlight of teaching at Andrews.”
These moments enriched student growth and deepened Bailey’s sense of purpose.
“My favorite everyday experience,” he said, “is watching students teach each other something that they have learned, either as part of an activity in class or when students are in shared spaces in the department.”
Kaara Harris, professor of communications, said, “My favorite group of people is the Student Movement staff. I’ve seen [them] throughout the year, and working with [them] has been the highlight of the year.”
These day-to-day glimpses of collaboration, curiosity and connection reveal the heart of the Andrews community—one rooted in mutual learning and support.
The Student Movement is the official student newspaper of Andrews University. Opinions expressed in the Student Movement are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors, Andrews University or the Seventh-day Adventist church.