Dr. Christina M. Schnyders

The Íæż½ã½ã (WPU) Board of Trustees announces the appointment of its ninth President, Dr. Christina M. Schnyders, effective August 1, 2026. Dr. Schnyders currently serves as Provost at Malone University, in Canton, Ohio, where she has spent the past 19 years advancing Christ-centered higher education through servant leadership, academic innovation, and deep investment in student success.

A Professor of Counseling and Human Development and a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with Supervisory Designation (LPCC-S), Dr. Schnyders brings a distinctive combination of relational insight, strategic leadership, and mission-driven vision to her work.

Throughout her career at Malone, Dr. Schnyders has served in a variety of leadership roles, including Resident Director, Program Director, Faculty Chair, and Provost. Across each of these positions, she has remained committed to fostering academic excellence, cultivating a vibrant campus community, and supporting the holistic development of students as they discern their calling and vocation.

Dr. Schnyders is an active scholar whose work focuses on emerging adult counseling, counseling termination, and clinical supervision. In 2020, she received the Counselor Educator of the Year award from the Ohio Association for Counselor Education and Supervision. She currently serves as Vice Chair of the Chief Academic Officers group for the Christian College Consortium.

When describing her sense of calling to lead and serve at Íæż½ã½ã, Dr. Schnyders shared, “Throughout this process, I was drawn to Warner Pacific’s authentic commitment to Christ-centered education, its emphasis on belonging and student transformation, and its unique ability to bring together faith, diversity, and community.â€�

She explained that she was especially inspired by the Church of God (Anderson) heritage, “which  shapes the university’s commitment to unity, service, and seeing Christ as the center of all we do. I am honored by the opportunity to join a university whose mission aligns so deeply with my own conviction that higher education should help students discover their calling and prepare them to serve others with wisdom, humility, and purpose.�

Dr. Schnyders earned a Ph.D. in Counseling and Human Development Services from Kent State University in 2012. She earned a MA in Clinical and Pastoral Counseling from Ashland Theological Seminary in 2005 and a BA in Psychology from Simpson College (now Simpson University) in 2000.

Dr. Schnyders is married to Scott Schnyders, CEO at Refuge of Hope Ministries, a Christian non-profit organization committed to providing food and shelter to individuals in Stark County, Ohio. Together, they are the parents of two children, Caiden and Madison.

Dr. Schnyders succeeds Interim President Douglas S. Wade, who serves as the university’s Chief Financial Officer.

View Dr. Schnyders’ Curriculum Vitae (PDF)

Dr. Stephanie Mace received the Excellence in Teaching Award for her outstanding work in supporting students in the social sciences, particularly in social work. Known for her engaging teaching style and commitment to student success, Dr. Mace continues to make a meaningful impact in the classroom and beyond. In keeping with faculty tradition, the award was presented by the previous year’s recipient, Dr. Steve Waters.

Dr. Kevin Spooner received the Excellence in Scholarship Award in recognition of his significant scholarly contributions, particularly in the areas of educational research and grant writing. His work has advanced institutional goals while contributing to broader academic initiatives. The award was presented by a previous recipient, Prof. Heidi Owsley.

The faculty also celebrated Prof. Heidi Owsley’s 35 years of extraordinary service by recognizing her emerita status as a valued member of the academic community. Over three and a half decades, first as Associate Professor of Humanities and later as Associate Professor of English, Prof. Owsley embodied the mission and values of Warner Pacific and was a beloved mentor and educator to generations of students. Her contributions have left a lasting impact on the University and the lives of those she taught.

Five faculty members were also recognized for achieving new academic ranks this year:

• Dr. Ulf Spears, Associate Professor
• Dr. Stephanie Mace, Professor
• Dr. Bertram Coltman, Professor
• Dr. Jeannie Ray-Timoney, Assistant Professor
• Dr. Kevin Spooner, Associate Professor

“Our faculty are at the heart of the Warner Pacific experience,� said Dr. Latrissa Neiworth, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of Faculty. “These recognitions celebrate the dedication, scholarship, and care our faculty bring to their work every day.�

Íæż½ã½ã congratulates these distinguished faculty members and celebrates their lasting contributions to students, scholarship, and the University community. Through their dedication and leadership, they continue to advance the University’s mission and commitment to academic excellence.

It marked the culmination of stories shaped by perseverance, faith, sacrifice, growth, and purpose.

On May 9, graduates crossed the stage at Sunset Church surrounded by faculty, family members, mentors, classmates, and supporters who had walked alongside them throughout their journey. But behind every cap and gown was a story uniquely their own—stories of late nights, uncertainty, resilience, discovery, and calling.

This year’s graduating class represented 34 cities across Oregon, 13 states, and four countries. Forty-three percent of graduates were first-generation college students, and graduates ranged in age from 19 to 65.

Together, they reflected the heart of Íæż½ã½ã: a Christ-centered community where students are challenged academically, supported personally, and encouraged to pursue lives of meaning and service.

A Class Defined by Resilience

For many graduates, the path to commencement required balancing coursework with jobs, athletics, ministry, leadership responsibilities, caregiving, and personal challenges. Some arrived at Warner Pacific uncertain of what the future would hold. Others came carrying responsibilities far beyond the classroom.

Along the way, they discovered confidence, purpose, community, and a deeper understanding of who they were becoming.

“I’ve seen uncertain new students become confident leaders and trained professionals ready to make an immediate difference in their fields,� said Benjamin Leavitt, Director of Academic Services. “It’s been a real privilege to watch the Class of 2026 grow and mature during their time at WPU.�

For Miriam Barajas Carmona, who graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, one word best described her experience at Warner Pacific: “Community.�

She reflected on the relationships built through long hours in nursing labs, studying alongside classmates, and serving others throughout her time on campus.

“One of my best experiences was spending time with my classmates during lab skills class, where we could grow every day,� she shared. “I also enjoyed the time that I spent in the library helping students.�

Miriam said Warner Pacific shaped her not only academically, but personally and spiritually.

“I really like how teachers encourage students to never give up, and the message they shared—that God has a plan and purpose for our lives.�

After graduation, Miriam plans to begin her career as a registered nurse in a hospital surgical unit while continuing to pursue future specialization opportunities in critical care nursing.

“Find your purpose in life by serving others,� she said. “Stay positive and joyful.�

For Skylar Groesbeck, graduating from Warner Pacific’s nursing program meant balancing academics, athletics, and clinical preparation while remaining focused on a long-term calling to serve others.

A dual-sport student-athlete and nursing student, Skylar completed her final semester while finishing her capstone experience in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).

“The university and the nursing program have provided me with the opportunity to continue competing in two collegiate sports while pursuing my education and working toward earning my Bachelor of Science in Nursing,� she shared.

She reflected on how the experience shaped her both personally and professionally.

“This experience has helped me develop strong time management, teamwork, and resilience skills that will continue to guide me as I begin my career in nursing.�

Skylar’s story reflects the determination demonstrated by many graduates in the Class of 2026—students who learned to navigate challenge with perseverance and purpose.

For Alex Nisbet, Warner Pacific became a place where athletics, academics, and mentorship came together to shape both his confidence and future direction.

Graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and a minor in Sports Management, Alex described his experience at WPU in one word: “Superb.�

Among his favorite memories was hitting his first collegiate home run—an experience that reflected both perseverance and growth throughout his time as a student-athlete.

But beyond athletics, Alex said the people around him made the greatest impact.

“I had professors and coaches that not only taught me what they were supposed to teach, but also opened my eyes to how to thrive in the real world.�

After graduation, Alex plans to return to Warner Pacific to pursue his Master of Business Administration (MBA).

His advice to future students reflects a phrase deeply connected to the University itself: “Do everything With Purpose.�

Discovering Calling Through Opportunity

For Gianna Paulucci, Warner Pacific became a place where curiosity evolved into calling.

Originally exploring science as a pathway toward medical school, Gianna discovered a deeper passion for research through the mentorship of faculty and opportunities provided through Warner Pacific’s academic community. As a Murdock Scholar, she conducted pancreatic cancer research at Oregon Health & Science University alongside medical doctors and Ph.D. researchers.

“Warner has provided me with a lot of opportunities through great professors here that have allowed me to pursue my interests,� she said. “And spiritually, the community is extremely Christian-oriented and that has allowed me to deepen my connection to my own faith and explore my connection to God.�

Her experience reflects the kind of transformational opportunities Warner Pacific students continue to pursue across disciplines—from nursing and education to business, ministry, social work, athletics, and the sciences.

A Community That Walked Alongside Them

Behind every graduate stood a community of faculty, staff, coaches, mentors, classmates, friends, and family members who invested deeply in their journey.

Dr. Amber Gribbins, Associate Dean of Online and Degree Completion, encouraged graduates to remain courageous and intentional as they move into the next chapter of life.

“Be bold in your asks,� she shared. “Ask questions, ask for access, ask for guidance, and ask for the opportunity.�

Associate Dean of Education Dr. Kevin Spooner reflected on the importance of community and human connection in an increasingly divided world.

“My hope and prayer is that as graduates you will all ‘turn toward one another’ in this increasingly divided society,� he shared, referencing leadership writer Margaret Wheatley. “There is no power greater than a community discovering what it cares about.�

Dr. Gladys Jadagu reminded graduates that their worth extends far beyond accomplishments alone.

“As you graduate, I hope you carry with you the deep truth that you are more than enough, beautifully and wonderfully made in the image of God,� she shared. “Go out and conquer, because the world is your oyster.�

Director of Athletic Communications Jaymin Bernhardt reflected honestly on the transition many graduates are about to experience.

“Sometimes the first couple of years out of college can be difficult,� he shared. “I would encourage all graduates to find community, enjoy the little things in life as much as the big things, and surround yourselves with the right support system.�

Dean of Academic Operations Dr. Marlo Waters reminded graduates that they leave Warner Pacific supported not only by education, but by the care and prayers of an entire community.

“We are celebrating their success and praying for each of them to experience God’s guidance and blessings as they move forward with purpose.�

Director of Counseling Ki Gaines reflected on the character and humanity she witnessed in students throughout the year.

“My hope for the Class of 2026 is that you leave WPU knowing your worth is not defined solely by your achievements but by the compassion, resilience, and humanity you each bring into the world.�

Together, these reflections captured something deeply true about the Warner Pacific experience: students are not only educated here—they are known, encouraged, challenged, and supported by a community that believes in who they are becoming.

Becoming Who They Are Called to Be

Throughout commencement, a common thread emerged—not simply what graduates accomplished, but who they became in the process.

In his commencement remarks, Interim President Doug Wade reminded graduates that each person carried a unique story into the ceremony.

“A story of perseverance. A story of faith. A story of calling,� he shared. “And today, those stories come together in this moment.�

He encouraged graduates to see commencement not simply as the end of a chapter, but as the beginning of what comes next.

“You go forward equipped not only with knowledge,� Wade said, “but with character, with purpose, and with faith.�

For the graduates of Íæż½ã½ã, the lessons carried forward extend beyond classrooms and coursework. They carry with them relationships formed through community, confidence gained through challenge, and a deeper understanding of their calling in the world.

Stepping Forward With Purpose

As the Class of 2026 steps into hospitals, classrooms, businesses, churches, nonprofits, graduate programs, and communities across the country and around the world, their impact is already beginning to take shape.

Some will care for patients.
Some will teach and mentor future generations.
Some will serve churches and communities.
Some will conduct research, advocate for others, lead organizations, or create new opportunities for those around them.

All leave Warner Pacific carrying something greater than a degree alone.

They leave prepared to serve.
Prepared to lead.
Prepared to make a difference.

And perhaps most importantly, prepared to move forward with purpose.

More than a meal, the luncheon created space to reflect on the impact of scholarship support and the ways it continues to shape students’ lives—academically, spiritually, and personally.

Stories of Calling and Transformation

A central moment of the luncheon was a student panel conversation facilitated by First Lady Danielle Wade, featuring Dominica Griffith Kosloskie, Gianna Paulucci, and Luda Shotropa.

Each student shared their journey—highlighting perseverance, growth, and the ways Warner Pacific has helped shape their sense of calling.

Their stories offered a powerful reminder that behind every scholarship is a student navigating real challenges, pursuing meaningful goals, and stepping into who they are called to become.

The Power of Opportunity

Throughout the program, faculty and campus leaders reflected on the importance of scholarships in creating access and removing barriers for students.

Dr. Ulf Spears, Dean of Business, shared a clear and compelling perspective: “Scholarships give students the opportunity to receive an education without debt—allowing them to focus, grow, and step fully into their future.�

He emphasized that when financial pressure is reduced, students are able to engage more deeply in their learning, grow with confidence, and build a foundation for long-term success.

A Vision Rooted in Purpose

Interim President Doug Wade invited those gathered to see the moment through a broader lens—one grounded in faith, purpose, and lasting impact.

“What you’ve seen and heard is more than a moment—it is a glimpse of what God is doing in the lives of our students.�

He continued by emphasizing the far-reaching impact of investing in students: “When a student’s life is changed, it doesn’t stop there. It reaches families. It strengthens communities. It touches lives we may never see.�

These reflections underscored the shared role of the Warner Pacific community in supporting students as they pursue their education and respond to their calling.

A Community Gathered in Gratitude

From the opening welcome to the closing remarks, the luncheon remained centered on gratitude.

Guests experienced a thoughtful program that included faculty reflections, an academic update, and time for fellowship and connection. Live music from the Warner Pacific worship team created a space that was both celebratory and reflective.

Together, the gathering reflected a community united not only by shared values, but by a shared investment in students and their future.

Continuing the Work Together

As the luncheon concluded, the invitation was clear—continue partnering in the work of supporting students and expanding opportunity.

“Every time you give… every time you invest… you are stepping into their story.�

The President’s Scholarship Luncheon served as both a moment of reflection and a call to continued engagement—reminding all in attendance that the impact of generosity extends far beyond a single day.

Through scholarship support, lives are shaped, callings are fulfilled, and communities are strengthened.

Íæż½ã½ã will celebrate its Spring 2026 Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, May 9, at 10:00 AM at Sunset Church in Portland, Oregon.

Family, friends, faculty, and the broader community are invited to gather in celebration of this significant milestone as graduates are recognized for their academic achievements and perseverance.

Honoring the Class of 2026

The ceremony will recognize graduates across a wide range of programs, including undergraduate, graduate, and professional studies, reflecting the diverse paths and accomplishments of Warner Pacific students.

Throughout the ceremony, graduates will be honored not only for their academic success, but for their resilience, leadership, and commitment to growth during their time at the University.

Student Voices and Distinguished Speakers

This year’s ceremony will feature student speakers representing both traditional and Professional and Graduate Studies programs.

James Francis Boland, Jr., representing Professional and Graduate Studies, and Joél A. Gonzalez, representing traditional undergraduate students, will share reflections on their experiences and the journeys that have shaped their time at Warner Pacific.

The University is also honored to welcome Pastor Monté Dillard, Sr., Interim Director of Church of God Ministries, as the Commencement Speaker.

A Celebration Rooted in Faith and Purpose

The ceremony will include moments of reflection, prayer, and celebration, highlighting the Christ-centered mission of Íæż½ã½ã.

From the opening invocation to the conferral of degrees and the traditional turning of tassels, commencement serves as both a culmination of students’ academic journeys and a sending forward into lives of purpose, service, and impact.

Join the Celebration

The Spring 2026 Commencement Ceremony will take place at:

Sunset Church
14986 NW Cornell Road
Portland, Oregon
Saturday, May 9, 2026
10:00 AM

For those unable to attend in person, additional details and livestream information will be available on the Íæż½ã½ã Commencement webpage.

The recognition reflected a defining aspect of the Warner Pacific experience: leadership is not simply a role, but a commitment to showing up for others and strengthening the campus community.

Student Organizations Shape Campus Life

Student organizations play a vital role in creating spaces where students connect, grow, and belong. Through events, programming, and peer leadership, these groups help shape the student experience in meaningful and lasting ways.

The following student organizations were recognized for their leadership and contributions this year:

• Nursing Student Club
• Chess Club
• Music Club
• Black Student Union
• Knights of Psychology Club
• SOMOS Knights

Each organization reflects the diverse interests, identities, and passions that make up the Warner Pacific community.

Recognizing Leadership and Impact

This year’s individual awards highlighted students whose leadership has made a lasting impact across campus—through residence life, student government, and spiritual leadership.

Angel Perez-Nino, a Resident Assistant and graduating senior, was recognized with the Community Impact Award for creating spaces of connection and belonging within the campus community. Through daily interactions and intentional presence, Angel has helped foster a culture of care and support among students.

Joel Gonzalez, President of the Student Government and also a graduating senior, received the Student Leadership Award in recognition of his leadership, initiative, and commitment to representing and serving the student body. His work has strengthened student voice, advocacy, and engagement across campus.

Ja’shawn Young, Student Chaplain, was honored with the Kingdom Leadership Award for demonstrating Christ-centered leadership through service, purpose, and conviction. His leadership has helped shape the spiritual life of the campus, guiding and encouraging others in their faith.

Continuing a Legacy of Ministry and Leadership

In addition to this year’s award recipients, several graduating students from the Ministry Team were also recognized for their faithful leadership and service throughout their time at Warner Pacific.

Denise Rendon, Genevieve Worthington, and Natalie Siquina Garcia have each contributed to the spiritual life of the campus, helping lead, serve, and support their peers in meaningful ways.

As these students graduate, new leadership is already stepping forward. Hannah Whitman has been named Assistant Student Chaplain, continuing the work of fostering spiritual growth and community among students.

A Community Built Through Leadership

“These recognitions are not just about roles or titles,� said Eric Colon-Cortes, Chief of Staff and Dean of Students. “They reflect the ways our students show up for one another, build community, and help create a place where people are known and valued.�

As graduating seniors prepare for what comes next and new leaders step into their roles, their impact remains evident in the strength and spirit of the Warner Pacific community.

Through leadership, service, and everyday interactions, these students help shape a campus environment where individuals are supported, connected, and encouraged to grow.

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.

Explore Degrees & Programs

Kinesiology Students: Bryten Gumke, Fernanda Nunez and Naomi Johnson

Íæż½ã½ã 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,â€� said Douglas Wade, Interim President of Íæż½ã½ã. “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.â€�

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

Íæż½ã½ã 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 Íæż½ã½ã. 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,â€� said Douglas Wade, Interim President of Íæż½ã½ã. “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 Íæż½ã½ã.â€�

Íæż½ã½ã 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 Íæż½ã½ã. 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.

Íæż½ã½ã 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 Íæż½ã½ã 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 Íæż½ã½ã’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 Íæż½ã½ã

Íæż½ã½ã 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), Íæż½ã½ã is committed to educational equity, with nearly half of its students being first-generation college students.