From the Heart

Here you will find a series of messages that describe various aspects of my vision for, and deep commitment to, Andrews University.

These messages are also directly informed by the Bible, as exemplified in the beliefs of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, which has owned and sponsored Andrews University since it first opened its doors as Battle Creek College in 1874.
 

John Wesley Taylor V
President
 

A Commitment to Mission

At Andrews University, we are inspired by mission and we are committed to mission—to the mission of our University, to the mission of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, and to the gospel commission that God has given to us and which inspires all of our journeys forward. You can read more about our mission here.

A Commitment to Our Core Values

To accomplish our mission, we will continue to focus on forging an Andrews University campus and community culture where people thrive. Together we will inspire and create that environment by "Sharing the Heart of God," a concept which encapsulates our core values of Compassion, Trust, Integrity, Humility, Wellbeing, Justice and Innovation. Anchored in Scripture and God's plans for us, these core values serve as our guiding light—defining, inspiring and propelling our University's vibrant culture. You can read more about our core values here.

What Makes an Adventist Education Distinctive?

Andrews University is a Seventh-day Adventist university. This means that our approach to teaching and learning is built on and inspired by the distinctive philosophy of Adventist education, which incorporates at least seven essential elements. You can read more about each of those elements here.

A Biblical Framework for Research

The Bible presents a framework for research, which on our campus and elsewhere can and should be a purposeful inquiry that seeks to advance knowledge and understanding. This framework, exemplified in Scripture through persons, approaches, and key concepts, affords direction for the research that we carry forward at Andrews University. You can read more here.

A Message on Human Sexuality

The Bible provides the divine design for human sexuality. God created human beings in His own image (Genesis 1:26). This means that we are created to reflect God and His plan in our relationships. As a Seventh-day Adventist university, Andrews University affirms the biblical teaching on human sexuality, upholding the sacredness of sexual intimacy within the context of a monogamous, heterosexual marriage, and extending compassion and care to all. You can read more here.

A Message on Unity in Cultural Diversity

At Andrews University, we are committed to embracing cultural diversity and promoting intercultural understanding in ways that lead to unity. This means creating a caring community where we value each other, show compassion, and strive for justice and fairness. It means listening to each other's experiences, discussing our challenges openly, and working together to build a cohesive community that advances God's kingdom. You can read more about cultural diversity and intercultural understanding at Andrews University here.

A Message on Women in Ministry

Women hold an indispensable place in the story of God’s redemptive work. In the glorious tapestry of God’s design, the intrinsic worth and contributions of women shine brilliantly. As a unified body with a variety of talents and gifts, we press forward together empowered by the Holy Spirit, offering the transformative love of Jesus to the world. You can read more here.

A Message on Caring for God's Creation

God cares for His creation, and so should we. What, then, are the implications? What should we do individually and corporately at Andrews University? You can read more about our commitment to environmental stewardship and our culture of creation care here.

A Message on Christianity & Politics

Our educational journey at Andrews is about more than just academic excellence—it's about embodying Christ's love, making a positive impact in society, and preparing for the eternal life to come. And in every discussion, decision, and action, including politics and participation in the public square, our compass is the timeless truth of God's Word. You can read more about the relationship between Christianity and politics, and its implications, here.