Led by Dr. Therese Albert, Assistant Professor of Chemistry, this initiative provides students with direct access to advanced research laboratories and instrumentation—an experience rarely available at small undergraduate institutions.

Beginning May 18, 2026, students will participate in approximately one month of volunteer research, contributing to ongoing scientific investigations in metalloprotein chemistry.

A Real Research Experience—Not a Simulation

Unlike many undergraduate lab experiences, students in this program will not be completing pre-designed exercises. Instead, they will contribute to real, ongoing research alongside active scientists.

“This opportunity gives our students direct access to world-class research facilities and instrumentation,” said Dr. Albert. “They are not completing simulated exercises—they are contributing to meaningful scientific investigations.”

Through this experience, students will engage with complex research questions while developing practical skills using advanced techniques, including spectroscopy.

Learning in a Professional Research Environment

Working in a professional research setting allows students to see how science operates beyond the classroom.

“They learn how experiments are designed, executed, analyzed, and discussed in a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment,” Dr. Albert shared. “This exposure helps students better understand expectations in graduate school, medical research, and industry, while building confidence in their ability to belong in these spaces.”

For many students, this kind of experience is transformational—bridging the gap between academic learning and real-world application.

Building Confidence and Career Readiness

A key outcome of the experience is student growth and confidence.

“What excites me most is watching students realize that they are capable of tackling complex scientific questions,” said Dr. Albert. “Students move from following instructions to thinking like scientists—asking questions, interpreting data, and making informed decisions.”

Students will leave the experience with:

• Strong foundational research skills
• Confidence in their scientific abilities
• Clearer direction for graduate school or career pathways
• A deeper understanding of how chemistry connects to biology, medicine, and human health

In addition, students gain valuable preparation for future opportunities through:

• Hands-on research experience
• Faculty mentorship and professional references
• Exposure to advanced instrumentation
• Opportunities for presentations, posters, and potentially co-authorship

These experiences are highly valued by graduate programs, medical schools, and research-focused employers.

Connecting Science to Health and Human Impact

In simple terms, students will work in a real research lab to study how metals in proteins help living systems function.

They will use advanced tools to observe how proteins behave and change, contributing to scientific questions that help researchers better understand disease and human health.

Expanding Opportunities for Students

This experience connects Warner Pacific students with advanced research environments while maintaining the close mentorship and support that define the University.

“It allows students to gain experiences usually associated with much larger institutions while maintaining the personalized support that defines WPU,” Dr. Albert explained.

As the program develops, it will continue to create opportunities for students to engage in meaningful research and explore pathways in science, medicine, and health-related fields.

How to Get Involved

Students interested in participating are encouraged to express interest by early May 2026. Because this is the first year of the program, applications will be accepted on a rolling basis from interested and committed students.

Interested in research, chemistry, or health sciences?

Explore Warner Pacific’s degrees and find the path that prepares you for careers in science, medicine, and health.

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Kinesiology Students: Bryten Gumke, Fernanda Nunez and Naomi Johnson

ÍćĹĽ˝ă˝ă kinesiology students recently represented the University at the Northwest Chapter of the American College of Sports Medicine (NWACSM) Annual Meeting, held April 1–3 at the University of Idaho.

Accompanied by instructor Dr. Ken Ecker, students Bryten Gumke, Naomi Johnson, and Fernanda Nunez joined peers and professionals from across the region for a conference centered on this year’s theme, “Innovation Meets Application: Building the Future of Exercise Science.”

The event brought together emerging and established leaders in sports medicine and kinesiology, offering students exposure to cutting-edge research, interactive sessions, and meaningful networking opportunities within the field.

As part of the conference, WPU students competed in the NWACSM Student Knowledge Bowl — a fast-paced, Jeopardy-style competition covering key topics in exercise science and sports medicine. Competing against 20 universities, the WPU team placed 10th in their first-ever appearance in the event.

“This experience gave our students the opportunity to apply what they’ve learned in the classroom while engaging directly with professionals and peers in their field,” said Dr. Ecker.

For the students, the experience extended beyond competition. It was an opportunity to grow academically and professionally, build connections, and gain a deeper understanding of their calling in kinesiology and sports medicine.

On February 20, more than 100 members of the Warner Pacific community gathered in McGuire Auditorium to celebrate athletics and invest in the future of our student-athletes. Marking the return of the Gala for the first time since 2020, the evening reflected a community aligned around purpose.

From the beginning, the room carried a sense of energy and connection. Students engaged with guests, conversations filled the space, and supporters participated in raffles and silent auction bidding—all contributing to a shared investment in student success. In a nod to the evening’s “dress your best with your best sneakers” theme, guests brought both style and personality, adding a unique and memorable touch to the celebration.

The program also honored President Emeritus Dr. Jay Barber with a Legacy Award, recognizing his role in restoring athletics at Warner Pacific and shaping a program that continues to develop leaders of character, discipline, and faith.

The defining moment of the evening came during the paddle raise. What began as an ambitious goal resulted in $100,000 raised for student-athlete scholarships—an outcome made possible through the collective generosity of alumni, partners, and friends, and strengthened through the leadership and partnership of United Way of the Columbia-Willamette.

“As we planned this Gala, I carried a goal in mind,” said Matt Gregg, Athletic Director. “To see our community exceed it in such a meaningful way was incredible. I’m especially grateful for our partnership with United Way and Kelly O’Lague. Their care for our student-athletes was evident throughout the entire evening. This is just the beginning of what’s possible.”

This moment was not defined by a single night, but by what it now makes possible. Every dollar raised directly supports students—expanding access, reducing financial barriers, and creating opportunity for student-athletes to pursue their academic and athletic goals with confidence. This is where impact becomes real: in the lives of students who are being equipped, supported, and prepared to lead with purpose.

“We give thanks to God,” said Douglas Wade, Interim President of ÍćĹĽ˝ă˝ă. “Not only for the provision that made this possible, but for the people He brought together in support of our students. What took place was a powerful reminder that when a community moves in unity with purpose, the impact extends far beyond a single moment.”

The Night of Knights Gala was not simply a return. It was a statement about who we are, what we value, and what we are building together.

Rod Monroe

ÍćĹĽ˝ă˝ă joins the broader Oregon community in remembering Rod Monroe, educator, public servant, and longtime friend of the University, who passed away on February 20, 2026, at the age of 83.

Rod Monroe’s story is closely connected to the early history of Warner Pacific. His father, Warner Monroe, moved his family to Portland in the early 1940s to serve as a professor at Pacific Bible College, the institution that would later become ÍćĹĽ˝ă˝ă. The Monroe family became part of the formative years of the college, contributing to the faith-centered academic community that helped shape its mission and identity. Today, that legacy is still remembered on campus, including the Monroe Garden located near Schlatter Chapel.

Rod Monroe carried that legacy forward. After graduating from Franklin High School in Portland, he enrolled at Warner Pacific College, where he met his wife of more than six decades, Billie. He later earned a master’s degree from Warner Pacific and maintained a lifelong connection to the University. Over the years, he also served on the Warner Pacific Board of Trustees, offering guidance and support to the institution.

A dedicated educator, Rod spent many years teaching history and government, inspiring generations of students and demonstrating a lifelong commitment to education and service.

“Rod Monroe lived a life marked by service, leadership, and faith,” said Douglas Wade, Interim President of ÍćĹĽ˝ă˝ă. “His connection to Warner Pacific reaches back to the early days of Pacific Bible College through his father, Warner Monroe, and continued through his own involvement as an alumnus and trustee. Rod’s commitment to education, public service, and the wellbeing of others reflects values that are deeply aligned with the mission of ÍćĹĽ˝ă˝ă.”

ÍćĹĽ˝ă˝ă gives thanks for Rod Monroe’s life of service and for the lasting connection between the Monroe family and the life of the University.

The University is seeking an experienced, mission-oriented, and relational leader who will advance Warner Pacific’s Christ-centered identity while strengthening academic excellence and institutional vitality. The ideal candidate will embody a deep Christian faith and bring both visionary leadership and practical experience in higher education.

The search will be led by a Presidential Search Committee chaired by Dr. Jay Barber, President Emeritus of ÍćĹĽ˝ă˝ă. The committee will engage members of the university community throughout the process, ensuring thoughtful input from key stakeholders across campus.

To assist with the search, Warner Pacific has partnered with FaithSearch Partners, a nationally recognized executive search firm with extensive experience placing senior leaders within Christian higher education. FaithSearch Partners will support the committee in identifying, evaluating, and recruiting candidates who align with the University’s mission and leadership priorities.

The search process began earlier this year with the engagement of FaithSearch Partners and the formation of the search committee. Initial stakeholder input helped inform the development of the presidential candidate profile. Candidate sourcing and screening are currently underway, with semi-finalist interviews anticipated in April. Finalist candidates are expected to participate in campus interviews later in the spring, with the goal of engaging a final candidate by May.

ÍćĹĽ˝ă˝ă remains committed to a thoughtful and prayerful process as it seeks the next leader who will guide the institution in fulfilling its mission of preparing students to engage actively in a constantly changing world. All members of the Warner Pacific campus community are invited to join in prayer for God’s clear and decisive direction throughout this search process.

Individuals interested in learning more about the opportunity or nominating a candidate are encouraged to contact FaithSearch Partners. All inquiries and nominations will be handled with the utmost confidentiality.

Additional information about the presidential search, including updates and details about the process, can be found on the Presidential Search page of the ÍćĹĽ˝ă˝ă website.

The 48-credit undergraduate major provides a clear and practical pathway for students preparing for pastoral ministry, church leadership, and Christian service. The degree was developed during the 2025–2026 academic year by an advisory group of Church of God pastors, former pastors, Christian ministry scholars, and university academic leaders in response to the growing need for well-equipped pastors throughout the Northwest region and beyond. The program has been approved for offering by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

“The Church needs leaders who are deeply rooted in Scripture and prepared for the realities of ministry today,” said Interim President Douglas Wade. “This degree reflects Warner Pacific’s historic commitment to forming pastors who love God, understand His Word, and shepherd His people with wisdom, conviction, and compassion.”

Warner Pacific was founded in 1937 in Spokane, Washington, as Pacific Bible College and was established by the Church of God (Anderson, Indiana) to provide Christian education grounded in the Wesleyan/Holiness tradition. The new Pastoral Studies degree builds upon that legacy while equipping students to serve contemporary congregations and communities with theological depth and practical leadership skills.

Students who choose to major in Pastoral Studies will engage in theological study, spiritual formation, and leadership development through a curriculum intentionally designed for real-world pastoral demands. Areas of emphasis include preaching, discipleship, evangelism, pastoral care, church administration, and mission-shaped leadership in diverse contexts.

Coursework includes:

• Biblical Studies
• Hermeneutics
• Pastoral Ethics
• Church Administration
• Evangelism and Missional Leadership
• Preaching
• Church of God History
• Sustaining a Whole Life in Ministry

Students are required to complete at least one supervised local ministry internship, providing hands-on experience in pastoral leadership and congregational life. In addition, students benefit from numerous church and ministry partnerships within the WPU network committed to supporting the formation of church leaders.

Collaborative relationships include organizations such as Mid-America Christian University (MACU), the Leadership Focus program, and other associations, movements, denominations, and local churches. These partnerships expand opportunities for ministry experience and may support students pursuing Church of God ministerial credentialing pathways.

Program Outcomes

Program outcomes reflect both theological depth and pastoral practice. Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts in Pastoral Studies will be equipped to:

• Interpret Scripture using hermeneutics
• Integrate theological reflection with pastoral practice
• Demonstration spiritual and emotional maturity in leadership
• Communicate effectively through preaching and teaching across ministry contexts
• Lead evangelism and mission work with cultural intelligence
• Sustain a holistic life of ministry through ongoing spiritual formation and healthy balance

Students move through a structured major that includes core Pastoral Studies coursework and a Pastoral Leadership Emphasis, preparing leaders for ministry that is both faithful to the gospel and attentive to the needs of contemporary communities.

Incoming first-year students may complete the degree in four years through primarily in-person coursework supplemented by select online offerings. The program also includes an accelerated ministry pathway through the Church of God for students who choose to pursue credentialing, including participation in the Leadership Focus program, which supports completion of ministerial credential requirements.

The Bachelor of Arts in Pastoral Studies represents ÍćĹĽ˝ă˝ă’s continued commitment to forming Christ-centered leaders equipped to serve the Church and the world with theological depth, spiritual maturity, and practical wisdom.

About ÍćĹĽ˝ă˝ă

ÍćĹĽ˝ă˝ă is a Christ-centered, urban, liberal arts university in the heart of Portland, Oregon. Founded in 1937, the University is dedicated to preparing students from diverse backgrounds to engage actively in a constantly changing world. As a federally designated Minority-Serving Institution (MSI), ÍćĹĽ˝ă˝ă is committed to educational equity, with nearly half of its students being first-generation college students.

Nelson brings extensive experience in higher education leadership and marketing. He joins Warner Pacific from Linfield University, where he served as Chief Marketing Officer and Associate Vice President. During his tenure, he led a full institutional rebrand, authored the University’s strategic plan and comprehensive marketing plan, and served as a member of the president’s leadership team.

“I’m excited to join the team at Warner Pacific,” said Nelson. “I am thankful to have an opportunity to continue helping students improve their lives through education, and I’m especially glad to do it at a small, private university where nobody falls through the cracks and everyone finds the support they need. I can’t think of a better way to spend my life’s energy.”

Prior to his work in higher education, Nelson spent nearly two decades in journalism, with leadership and reporting roles at The Oregonian, The Boston Globe, and The Tampa Tribune. His journalism career included reporting from New York City following the September 11 attacks, embedded coverage with U.S. Marines during Operation Iraqi Freedom, and contributing to coverage at The Boston Globe that won the 2003 Pulitzer Prize in Public Service.

“Scott brings strong leadership to undergraduate recruitment and a deep commitment to serving our Christ-centered institution,” said Dr. Darilís García, Vice President for Enrollment Management. “His experience and student-centered approach will strengthen our recruitment efforts and help more students find a place where they are known, supported, and able to succeed at Warner Pacific.”

Nelson holds an MBA from the University of Maryland and a bachelor’s degree from Linfield. He lives in Sherwood, Oregon, and has two adult children.

As Associate Vice President for Undergraduate Admissions, Nelson oversees admissions strategy, team leadership, operational performance, and recruitment outcomes, in support of Warner Pacific’s Christ-centered mission and commitment to student success.

Dr. Maddox joined ÍćĹĽ˝ă˝ă in January 2024 and most recently served as Senior Associate Registrar, where he advised PGS business students, oversaw the Records Office & Academic Advising staff, and supported the work of the Registrar. Prior to joining Warner Pacific, he served as a head pastor, editor, and adjunct professor. He continues to teach courses on Methodist history, doctrine, and policy for the Western Jurisdiction of The United Methodist Church.

Dr. Maddox received his Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy from Seattle Pacific University, his Master of Divinity from Duke Divinity School, his Master of Library and Information Science from the University of Washington, and his Ph.D. in Religious Studies from Southern Methodist University. He currently resides in Vancouver, Washington, with his wife and two children.

“I am blessed and honored to serve as the new Registrar of ÍćĹĽ˝ă˝ă,” said Maddox. “I am constantly amazed by the kindness, generosity, and dedication of the University’s students, staff, and faculty, and I look forward to continuing to support and empower my fellow Knights in this role.”

Vice President of Academic Affairs and Chief Academic Officer Dr. Latrissa Lee Neiworth shared, “Dr. Maddox will bring to the Office of Records & Academic Advising a wealth of experience and background to help us meet the Registrar’s priorities. He has been an outstanding professional advisor and senior associate registrar, exhibiting the qualities needed to lead this important part of the University.”

As Registrar, Dr. Maddox’s priorities include helping establish an undergraduate honors program, working with the VPAA and Deans to continue updating the curriculum, and ensuring students receive personalized, high-quality advising from the moment they apply through graduation.

From the moment students checked in, they were met with warmth, joy, and hospitality. The energy in the room made it clear that these students were not just receiving information. They were receiving a first invitation into belonging.

Peer mentors, peer navigators, Ki Gaines, Director of Counseling, and Shimiki Stringer, Director of Residence Life and Student Engagement, helped shape the welcoming energy that defined the day. Alongside faculty and staff, they were present with students, offering conversation, encouragement, and a first sense of what it means to belong at Warner Pacific.

The day began with welcome remarks from Eric Colon-Cortes, Chief of Staff and Dean of Students, who also spoke on behalf of Interim President Doug Wade: “You are here on purpose. This is not by accident. We believe this is part of God’s plan for your life.” He reminded students that Warner Pacific is Christ-centered, Portland-grounded, and committed to supporting their growth: “You are here to unleash your purpose.”

The orientation program, led by Student Success & Engagement in collaboration with Academic Services, included sessions focused on equipping students for success, including college transitions, academic support, financial aid, and university policies. Peer mentors, peer navigators, faculty, and staff modeled what a connected and caring campus community looks like.

Ben Leavitt, Director of Academic Services, shared insights about the incoming class:

• Majors included Nursing, Sports Medicine, Biology, Business, and Education
• Students represented athletic teams like Baseball, Volleyball, Track and Field, and Cross Country
• While many came from Portland, Vancouver, Gresham, Tigard, and Hillsboro, others traveled from California and Florida
• More than 52% of the students speak two or more languages, reflecting the cultural and linguistic strength of our community

Guests were also present, including parents, spouses, and friends. One nursing student attended with their spouse and baby. The spouse, a WPU nursing alumna from the class of 2022, stood beside her partner as a powerful symbol of what this community can produce: graduates who carry purpose forward into families, professions, and communities.

After a shared meal, the community gathered in Schlatter Chapel for the Knight Induction Ceremony. It was a moment of sacred tradition and institutional pride. Dr. Latrissa Lee Neiworth, Vice President of Academic Affairs, offered a pledge on behalf of the faculty to support and challenge students in their academic journey. Dr. Darilis Garcia, Vice President of Enrollment Management and Student Success, reflected on the significance of this moment and reminded students, “We will see you at graduation.”

The ceremony concluded with Dean Ober, Assistant Director of Campus Safety, who led the new class in learning the Warner Pacific Alma Mater: Hail Pacific, A.F. Gray. Ben Leavitt accompanied them on piano as voices filled the chapel, a fitting final note to a day rooted in purpose, belonging, and tradition.

Portland, Ore.

The award recognizes Dr. Spooner’s leadership, teaching excellence, and significant contributions to advancing teacher education through sustained partnerships with community college programs. NACCTEP’s annual awards honor educators and leaders across the country whose work strengthens pathways into the teaching profession, expands access, and supports equity in educator preparation.

“It is an honor to receive this award,” said Dr. Spooner. “I am especially grateful to NACCTEP for their continued support of our Teacher Preparation Program at Warner Pacific, as well as our partnerships with community college programs in our area. This work is vital to the success of our teacher candidates.”

In his role at ÍćĹĽ˝ă˝ă, Dr. Spooner has been instrumental in supporting aspiring educators by building and strengthening collaborative pathways between community colleges and four-year institutions. His work emphasizes academic quality, mentorship, and access—ensuring that teacher candidates are well prepared to serve diverse classrooms and communities.

Dr. Latrissa Lee Neiworth, Vice President of Academic Affairs and Dean of Faculty, shared her appreciation for the recognition:

“Dr. Spooner’s unwavering dedication to excellence establishes the standard for us all. In education, it begins with a teacher who believes in you, who tugs and pushes and leads you to the next plateau. We are blessed to have such a dedicated faculty member among us here at ÍćĹĽ˝ă˝ă.”

NACCTEP announced its 2025–2026 award recipients in November and will formally recognize honorees during the organization’s pre-conference at the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (AACTE) conference in February 2026.

ÍćĹĽ˝ă˝ă congratulates Dr. Spooner on this well-deserved honor and celebrates his continued contribution to preparing the next generation of educators through leadership, collaboration, and service.

The UWCW’s investment serves as bridge funding to ensure that aspiring educators—many of whom are local first-generation college students—can continue their path to becoming K–12 teachers in Oregon.

The Vision to Build Oregon’s Diverse Teacher Pipeline

ÍćĹĽ˝ă˝ă holds the federal designation as Oregon’s first four-year Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and is uniquely committed to advancing educational equity by preparing K–12 educators who represent Oregon’s rich array of cultures and identities. In 2024, the University was the recipient of a highly competitive five-year, $3.2 million Hawkins Program grant for its ¡Adelante! Project. This program was designed to create pathways for students from diverse backgrounds to become highly qualified educators.

Dr. Kevin Spooner, Associate Dean of Education and Grant Activity Director at Warner Pacific, described the project’s vital goal:

“Our recent grant proposal was designed to expand access to high-need teaching fields in Oregon, including Special Education and dual-language/bilingual education. With this support, we planned to strengthen teacher pathways by offering a flexible and affordable bachelor’s degree with licensure, developing an ESOL endorsement, supporting candidates pursuing the Oregon State Seal of Biliteracy, and deepening our partnerships with community colleges and Portland Public Schools. These efforts were aimed at reducing barriers for future educators and supporting a diverse, well-prepared workforce.”

However, due to recent federal funding changes, Warner Pacific, alongside other Minority-Serving Institutions (MSIs) in the region, experienced the discontinuation of this multi-million-dollar federal grant, creating an immediate financial gap that threatened the enrollment of 25 education students.

Illustrating the gravity of the situation, Dr. Spooner continued:

“The loss of this funding has slowed progress. Most of the grant was dedicated to tuition assistance, and without it, many students cannot pursue these pathways. Several have shared that they are unable to continue without financial support.”

The ¡Adelante! Scholarship Fund faced an immediate $148,000 deficit of promised scholarship funding, placing students at risk of withdrawing from the University just before the spring semester.

A Partnership to Secure the Vision

Recognizing Warner Pacific’s community impact and commitment to equity, the United Way of the Columbia-Willamette provided the full $148,000 required to secure the enrollment of all 25 students. This investment builds on a growing partnership between UWCW and Warner Pacific to expand access to education and support diverse students across the region.

Earlier this year, UWCW launched two scholarship programs with Warner Pacific to support student-athletes who demonstrate leadership and character, with the program growing to $110,000 annually. Together, these efforts act as a critical bridge, allowing the University to continue strengthening Oregon’s educator workforce and supporting students through degree completion.

“While the priorities of the federal government may have shifted, our mission as a Christ-centered, urban university, and our dedication to the diverse, high-need students we serve, has not,” said Douglas S. Wade, Interim President of ÍćĹĽ˝ă˝ă. “We remain committed to equipping our students to pursue their God-given callings with purpose.

The United Way of the Columbia-Willamette’s action is a profound testament to their commitment to equity. When federal funding was discontinued, they ensured that our next generation of teachers can finish their degrees and enter the K–12 classrooms where they are desperately needed. They are true partners.”

“Our mission is to advance youth opportunity and financial security for all our neighbors,” said Kelly O’Lague, President and CEO of United Way of the Columbia-Willamette. “Investing in the ¡Adelante! Scholarship Fund is a direct investment in the future educators of our region, leaders whose impact will be felt in classrooms and schools for generations to come. When we ensure these students can complete their degrees, we are also investing in a more stable, representative educator workforce and a stronger regional economy. We are proud to provide this critical bridge funding to sustain the dreams of 25 students who will transform our local schools and communities.”

The grant, which was officially received by the University on December 15, is already being disbursed to students for the spring semester, securing their enrollment and continued progress toward becoming highly needed teachers for Oregon communities.

About ÍćĹĽ˝ă˝ă

ÍćĹĽ˝ă˝ă is a Christ-centered, urban, liberal arts university in the heart of Portland, Oregon. Founded in 1937, the University is dedicated to preparing students from diverse backgrounds to engage actively in a constantly changing world. As a federally designated Minority-Serving Institution (MSI), ÍćĹĽ˝ă˝ă is committed to educational equity, with nearly half of its students being first-generation college students.

About United Way of the Columbia-Willamette

helps neighbors strengthen their resilience by advancing health, youth opportunities, and financial security. For 105 years, UWCW has been focused on building a stronger, more equitable future for everyone in our region.

The event was designed to steward our current supporters and reengage our alumni family by sharing stories of student impact and preparing our hearts for Christmas. The program opened with worship, as sisters and students Susan and Sarah Asaya filled the room with the melodies of “Silent Night” and “O Come All Ye Faithful”. Following an invocation by Pastor Lorenzo, our Student Chaplain, Ja’Shawn Young, read from Isaiah 9:6-7, sharing a touching reflection on how these verses have applied to his own journey as a student. We were further moved by Tammy Rodgers, a recent graduate of the Ministry and Community Engagement program, who offered a testament to faith and perseverance as she recounted how God led her to Warner Pacific.

Between these moments of reflection, guests enjoyed a time of fellowship and a meal provided by Sodexo, featuring crowd favorites like candied bacon, Amish baked oatmeal, and baked brie. As the morning progressed, Corey Falls, Faculty Chair and Associate Professor, drew our attention back to the Word with a reading from John 1:14. President Doug Wade then shared university updates, celebrating the good news of our men’s soccer team making the top 8 in the NAIA National Tournament.

We were especially blessed by alumna Nike Greene, who delivered an enthralling keynote message about our call to reflect Christ’s light on campus, at work, and in our families. She emphasized that light is present in the darkness because it has a purpose, a truth that applies directly to our daily lives. The celebration concluded with the beautiful sounds of the choir and band from the Allen Center for the Performing Arts, arranged by alum Jeffrey Scott. Joshua Carothers, Director of Advancement, sent us out with a call to engagement, encouraging the community to continue supporting WPU students through their time, talent, and treasures. It was a morning that truly reflected our mission to equip our diverse student body through faith and education.