Andrews University Agenda

Andrews University Agenda http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/ News and Events at Andrews University en-us Copyright 2025, Andrews University Sat, 31 May 2025 08:34:00 +0000 Sat, 31 May 2025 08:34:00 +0000 webmaster@andrews.edu webmaster@andrews.edu Andrews Alumni Featured in Documentary Series http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/67308 <p> On Thursday, May 29, at 8 p.m. EST, and Sunday, June 1, at 7 p.m., PBS Michiana will air its newest installment of the "Legends of Michiana" documentary series. The program, titled “A Legacy of Care and Compassion,” will feature brothers Loren and Lowell Hamel. Born in Michigan, and with deep roots in the Andrews University community, the twins have made a significant impact on their local church and community.</p> <p> Growing up in a strong faith environment, both Loren and Lowell were called to serve their community of Berrien Springs, Michigan, as physicians. In 1976, both graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Andrews University. After attending Loma Linda University in California, they felt called back to Southwest Michigan to build and grow the community they grew up in. Both have worked to meet the health care needs of their community for more than 35 years, as primary care physicians and hospital administrators. For many years, Loren served as president and chief strategy officer and Lowell served as chief operating officer of Corewell Health (formerly Spectrum Health).</p> <p> Both Loren and Lowell have invested in the Andrews University community over the years. In 1990, they practiced medicine together at the University Medical Center on campus. Additionally, Loren Hamel has served as director of Student Health Services, clinical professor of nursing, president of the Alumni Association, chair of the J.N. Andrews Sculpture Committee, and member of the Board of Trustees and several of its subcommittees.</p> <p> The "Legends of Michiana" documentary series highlights people and organizations that have been influential to the growth and development of the Michiana area. Previous programs can be accessed <a href="https://www.wnit.org/programs/legends.html">here</a>. Thursday evening’s program can be viewed at the WNIT 34.1 <a href="https://www.wnit.org/live">livestream</a>.</p> Wed, 28 May 2025 14:28:53 +0000 Ninth Adventist Bioethics Consortium Conference http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/67292 <p> Andrews University hosted the annual Adventist Bioethics Consortium Conference on May 12 and 13, where presentations and discussions took place under the theme of “Know Mission, Know Margin.” This theme was directly inspired by the phrase “no margin, no mission,” which explores how to provide financially sustainable and equitable services to struggling communities. Presenters represented various institutions, including Andrews University, Adventist Health, Sydney Adventist Hospital, Loma Linda University, Kettering Health, Washington Adventist University, Indiana University, Uniformed Services University and AdventHealth University. The conference’s objective was to inspire Seventh-day Adventist and faith-based health care organizations and schools to address concerns involving marginalized communities, thus pursuing their Christ-ordained mission to serve all humankind and “make disciples of all nations.”</p> <p> The conference began with a morning worship presentation by Ann Hamel, licensed clinical psychologist and mental health provider for missionaries, and Loren Hamel, recently retired president of Corewell Health South and Andrews University board member. Loren spoke on Luke 10, where a lawyer asks Jesus, “What must I do to have eternal life?,” to which Jesus replies, “love your neighbor as yourself.” He went on to explain that loving one’s neighbors includes providing care and consideration to those who deal with various kinds of traumas. Ann gave examples of this neighborly love, sharing illustrative stories from her work in Palau and the Philippines.</p> <p> Subsequent morning presentations were given by Duane Bidwell, assistant professor of health professions education at Uniformed Services University, and Doris Tetz Carpenter, chief talent and culture officer for Adventist Health. Bidwell gave a talk on caring for children with chronic illnesses. He shared several practices that keep hope alive, including forming real connections; patients claiming power during the treatment process; attending to spiritual needs and curiosity; trusting patients; and helping patients maintain identity. Carpenter built on this theme by conveying how to bring purpose and belonging to both individual caregivers and patients within health care organizations.</p> <p> This was followed by an open discussion, which examined questions regarding artificial intelligence in health care, emotions within caregiving, ethics and more. Bonny Dent, adjunct faculty member for Andrews’ School of Rehabilitation Sciences, later spoke about chronobiology, the study of biological rhythms, and its relationship with Sabbath rest for humans. She pointed out that mention of Sabbath has seen a significant increase in society at large, which could indicate the need for sabbaticals and the weekly rest provided by God through the Sabbath.</p> <p> The final two presentations on Monday were given by Charis McRoy and Nicholas Miller, an undergraduate student and professor of law and religion at Washington Adventist University, respectively, and Grace Oei, director of the Center for Christian Bioethics in Loma Linda University’s School of Religion. McRoy and Miller spoke about a series of demographic studies exploring variations in patient experience for genetic testing. Oei spoke about bioethics, noting how organizational and community culture defines the norms for behavior, treatment of patients and structure of health care organizations.</p> <p> The second day of the conference began with a worship thought by Loren Hamel, who reflected on his own experiences in the medical field and how ethical dilemmas are common throughout health systems. Hamel observed that the focus of health care, especially for Seventh-day Adventist organizations, should be on using the love of God as the standard for everything else. With a focus on godly love, patients and medical experts can establish better listening and communication, thereby saving lives.</p> <p> Duane Covrig, professor of religion at Kettering College, and Cesiah Y. Pimentel Meléndez, associate dean of Quality and Mission Effectiveness at the Adventist School of Medicine of East-Central Africa, Rwanda, used stories within the Gospels as examples of how to treat and care for others, regardless of their status or background. They pointed out that Jesus not only set the example for how to be hospitable but had his disciples train in practical ways to carry out quality ministry and hospitality. Both presenters asserted that grace needs to inform decisions within Adventist health care so that it can adequately serve as the “right arm of the gospel,” as stated by Seventh-day Adventist pioneer Ellen G. White.</p> <p> The final presentation was given by Joe Kotva, assistant professor of clinical medicine at Indiana University’s School of Medicine. He added to the conference’s conversation on ethics in health care by sharing about Indiana University’s summer programs, which give students community service projects to help train them to deal with medical ethics. Various service-based institutions throughout Indiana receive help supporting vulnerable populations through these student partnerships. Kotva noted that programs like these help increase the empathy that medical students have for their patients, reversing the societal trend of decreasing empathy post-graduation.</p> <p> The Adventist Bioethics Consortium Conference finished with several research poster presentations in pure and applied science given by students and faculty members from Andrews University, University of Namibia, Kenya Medical Training College and Loma Linda University.</p> <p> To learn about past and future conferences and research events at Andrews University, please visit the <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/services/research/index.html">website</a> for the Office of Research & Creative Scholarship.</p> Thu, 22 May 2025 11:28:50 +0000 Andrews to Host Bioethics Consortium Conference http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/67257 <p> Andrews University will host the 9th annual Adventist Bioethics Consortium Conference on May 12 and 13. All events will be held in Buller Hall on the Andrews campus. The conference theme is “Know Mission, Know Margin” and aims to address current issues in clinical ethics, bioethics, theology and Adventist health care as well as foster the growing network of Adventist health care systems and professionals. Participants can attend both in person and virtually.</p> <p> The theme “Know Mission, Know Margin” comes from the phrase “No Margin, No Mission,” which was popularized by Sister Irene Kraus, former CEO of the Daughters of Charity National Health System. Kraus’ leadership, based on fiscal responsibility, allowed the health system to thrive while supporting a strong faith-based mission. The consortium will explore the current-day application of this phrase and the tension it presents between service and sustainability, highlighting the issue of justifying financial decisions in a professional, faith-based context.</p> <p> The conference will aim to address the term “margin,” defined both as financial profit—delving into the ethics of financial constraints in the face of helping others—and as groups of people who are impacted negatively by social and health disparities. Presenters will discuss different aspects of these issues, investigating accessible health care, exploring cost-efficiency, breaking down moral dilemmas faced by health care providers and navigating how to maintain quality of care.</p> <p> The Adventist Bioethics Consortium Conference invites participation from health care professionals, ethicists, students, administrators, chaplains and others interested in bioethics discussion and faith-based health care. Each day will open with a worship thought before continuing with presenters from Adventist Health, Sydney Adventist Hospital, Loma Linda University Health, Kettering Health, Andrews University, Washington Adventist University, Indiana University and AdventHealth University.</p> <p> The conference will end with lunch on Tuesday, May 13, preceded by a poster symposium displaying projects on pure science and applied science by researchers from Andrews University, University of Namibia, Kenya Medical Training College and Loma Linda University. The poster symposium presenters will give oral presentations on their research the following day in a follow-on conference, the Andrews Research Conference: Early Career Researchers in STEM and the Health Sciences.</p> <p> Registration is free of charge, and lunch meal tickets for both days will be included with registration for in-person attendees. To register, please visit the conference <a href="https://adventistbioethics.org/adventist-bioethics-conference/2025-adventist-bioethics-conference">website</a>. More information about the Andrews Research Conference can be found <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/services/research/research_events/conferences/arc/index.html">here</a>.</p> Fri, 09 May 2025 12:02:16 +0000 Andrews University Spring Graduation 2025 http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/67208 <p> Andrews University’s spring graduation will take place May 1–4, 2025. The weekend’s events will include a Friday evening Commencement service, Baccalaureate services on Sabbath morning and two additional Commencement services on Sunday morning.</p> <p> All Commencement services will take place at the Andreasen Center for Wellness, and the Baccalaureate services will take place at Pioneer Memorial Church. Please note that in order to provide more seating for families and friends of graduates, Commencement is held in three separate services and is by reserved seating only.</p> <p> Additional academic and cultural programs are planned throughout graduation weekend. Consult the online schedule for a complete listing at <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/graduation/schedule/">andrews.edu/graduation/schedule</a>.</p> <p> On Friday, May 2, at 5:30 p.m., John Peckham, research professor of theology and Christian philosophy at Andrews University and associate editor of the Adventist Review, will speak at the Commencement service for the Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary and the College of Education & International Services. His talk is titled, “Do Not Lose Heart.” Peckham obtained his bachelor’s degree in accounting from Atlantic Union College and his Master of Divinity and PhD in systematic theology from Andrews University. His work has been widely published, including over 50 articles in journals, 20 book chapters, 60 scholarly papers and 10 books. Peckham’s most recent book, “Why We Pray: Understanding Prayer in the Context of Cosmic Conflict” (Baker Academic, 2024), was recognized by the Christianity Today Book Awards.</p> <p> Two honorary degree candidates will be recognized at this service. E. Edward Zinke holds a Bachelor of Arts in Theology from Loma Linda University, Master of Arts in Old Testament and Master of Divinity from Andrews University, and doctoral candidate status in systematic theology at The Catholic University of America. Zinke worked at the Biblical Research Institute of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists before serving as president and co-owner of Ann’s House of Nuts. Later, he became a co-founder of the Adventist Theological Society. Zinke has contributed regularly to the theological thinking of the worldwide Seventh-day Adventist Church and has philanthropically supported numerous educational and theological conferences, symposia, scholarships and publications.</p> <p> Paul Brantley will also receive recognition for his service to the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Brantley holds a bachelor’s degree from Atlantic Union College, master’s degree from Andrews University and Doctor of Philosophy from The Ohio State University. He began his career teaching at Oakwood University and, later, Andrews University. During this time, he helped establish the Journal of Research on Christian Education (JRCE) and Curriculum & Instruction Resource Center Linking Educators (CIRCLE). Brantley went on to serve in senior leadership at Florida Hospital (now AdventHealth) before becoming general field secretary for the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. Later, he assumed the role of vice president for the North American Division until his retirement in 2021.</p> <p> On Saturday, May 3, Ivan Williams, vice president of strategy and leadership and director of the Ministerial Association for the North American Division of Seventh-day Adventists, will offer the address “No Regrets” for both the 9 a.m. (graduate) and 11:45 a.m. (undergraduate) Baccalaureate services. Williams completed degrees in communications and theology from Oakwood University, a Master of Divinity from Andrews University and a Doctor of Ministry from Claremont School of Theology. In addition to pastoral ministry, Williams previously served as chaplain for the California State Assembly and ministerial director for the Northern California Conference. He recently retired after 21 years in the United States Air Force, serving as a chaplain-lieutenant colonel for the California and Maryland Air National Guard.</p> <p> Two Commencement services will take place on Sunday, May 4. At the 8:30 a.m. service, Terry Shaw, president and chief executive officer for AdventHealth, will give the Commencement address “Lighting the Way” for graduates of the College of Health & Human Services and College of Professions. He will also be recognized as an honorary degree candidate at this service. Shaw earned bachelor’s degrees in accounting and computer science from Southern Adventist University as well as a master’s degree in business administration from the University of Central Florida. He began his over four-decade career with AdventHealth at what was previously Florida Hospital, serving as executive vice president, chief financial officer and chief operations officer. Shaw has led AdventHealth through significant transitions and innovations, and he has coordinated many of the organization’s philanthropic initiatives in support of higher education.</p> <p> Meredith Jones Gray, professor emerita of English at Andrews University, will deliver the address “Commencement 1879 and the ‘Golden Chain of Truth’” at the 11:30 a.m. Commencement service for graduates of the College of Arts & Sciences. Jones Gray completed a Bachelor of Arts in French and Master of Arts in English at Andrews University, then did her doctoral work in English language and literature at the University of Michigan. She taught at Andrews for 42 years and authored two volumes in the Andrews Heritage Series, “As We Set Forth,” on the history of Battle Creek College and Emmanuel Missionary College (1974–1960), and “Forward in Faith,” the story of Andrews University from 1960–1990.</p> <p> Select graduation services will be livestreamed. For details, visit <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/graduation/">andrews.edu/graduation</a>.</p> <p> <u font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); box-sizing: border-box;">                    </u></p> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> To learn more about studying at Andrews University, please visit <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/admissions/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">Enrollment</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> 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; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">positions</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> 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; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">donation</a>.</div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> 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; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">here</a>.</div> Mon, 28 Apr 2025 10:14:07 +0000 Andrews Conference Highlights Anabaptist Movement http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/67195 <p> On Jan. 21, 1525, in Zurich, Switzerland, a small group of Christians renounced infant baptism and were secretly rebaptised. This moment marked the beginning of the Anabaptist “rebaptiser” movement. In honor of the 500th anniversary of this important event in the history of the Reformation, from April 3–5, 2025, Andrews University hosted the “Anabaptist Conference: Living the Christian Life.” The conference brought together Mennonites and Adventists to “reflect on the past, engage with the present, and envision the future of Anabaptist traditions, emphasizing their enduring impact on Christian faith, peacebuilding, and communal living.”</p> <p> Andrews University has a history of dialogue and collaboration with Goshen College in Goshen, Indiana, and the Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary (AMBS) in Elkhart, Indiana. Based on these connections, in addition to the 500th anniversary celebrations being held at Goshen and AMBS, Andrews University chose to host a celebratory event and invite Mennonite colleagues from Goshen and AMBS. During the event, the Anabaptist movement’s emphases on discipleship, community and peace were given center stage.</p> <p> Event co-organizer Abner Hernandez, assistant professor of church history in the Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary, shared, “The conference offered a profound occasion for theological reflection, historical remembrance, and spiritual renewal.” Commenting on the importance of the historical milestone, Hernandez added, “Marking half a millennium since the rise of the Radical Reformation, the event underscored the enduring significance of Anabaptism for contemporary Christianity, particularly for the Seventh-day Adventist Church, which has inherited from the Anabaptist tradition a deep commitment to believers' baptism, the separation of church and state, and the primacy of Scripture.”</p> <p> The second event co-organizer was Davide Sciarabba, MTh, assistant professor of systematic theology and ethics in the Department of Religion & Biblical Languages.</p> <p> After a welcome and brief introduction—which included an opening presentation by Ji&rcaron;í Moskala, PhD, dean of the Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary—the first keynote speaker, John Roth, PhD, gave an address titled “Looking Back: Renewal, Identity, and Authority in Early Anabaptism.” Roth is the project director for “Anabaptism at 500,” an initiative of MennoMedia; a professor emeritus of history at Goshen College; and a research historian. This opening presentation set the stage for subsequent breakout conversations by establishing the history and impact of the early Anabaptist movement.</p> <p> The second keynote speaker, Regina Wenger, PhD, education curator at the Mennonite Heritage Center, examined the legacy of the Anabaptist movement in early education and its intersections with local communities. Her presentations, “An Education Set Apart: Wrestling with Identity in American Mennonite and Adventist K-12 Schools” and “Anabaptist and Adventist History in the Local Context,” highlighted how these theological movements influence daily life.</p> <p> Throughout the weekend, scholars such as Denis Fortin, Yvonne Gameti Witherspoon, Heidi Campbell and Trevor O’Reggio engaged with the historical significance of Anabaptism and how the Adventist and Mennonite movements adopted its principles. Central themes of the conference included pacifism, the Sabbath, the connection between Anabaptist ideology and social justice, and the evolution of the rich history of both the Adventist and Anabaptist movements.</p> <p> Sabbath morning featured a panel led by Felix Cortez, where Ji&rcaron;í Moskala, David Boshart, Elizabeth Miller, Teresa Reeve and Denis Fortin unpacked key Anabaptist scriptures. The conversation delved into the biblical foundations of faith.</p> <p> The Sabbath worship service, led by David Williams, was titled “Re-Creating Community: Worship of Anabaptists and Adventists.” After lunch, breakout sessions and plenary presentations resumed, reinvigorated by the service. One notable breakout session included Michael Campbell’s paper, “The Christian Connexion and Seventh-day Adventism: Searching for the Anabaptist Roots of Seventh-day Adventism.”</p> <p> John Reeve’s closing plenary, “Bridging Centuries, Building Faith: Insights from the Anabaptist Conference,” encapsulated the intent and impact of the conference.</p> <p> Reflecting on the gathering, Hernandez remarked, “Attendees were inspired by the testimony of men and women who, at great personal cost, upheld biblical truth in the face of persecution. The conference served not only as a remembrance of how God has faithfully led His church through history, but also as a call to renewed fidelity to the principle of sola scriptura—a principle cherished by the Anabaptists and foundational to Adventist identity and mission.”</p> <p> <u font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); box-sizing: border-box;">                    </u></p> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> To learn more about studying at Andrews University, please visit <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/admissions/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">Enrollment</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> 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; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">positions</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> 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; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">donation</a>.</div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> 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; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">here</a>.</div> Thu, 24 Apr 2025 11:28:19 +0000 Summit on Social Consciousness on Mental Health http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/67162 <p> The annual Summit on Social Consciousness was held on the campus of Andrews University on March 31 and April 1, 2025. Themed “Our Mental Health Crisis,” the summit explored timely questions about the mental health status of students, faculty, staff and administrators on campus. The event was held in Buller Hall’s Newbold Auditorium and featured keynote presentations, a mental health survey report, and a panel discussion that delved into some of the findings of the institutional mental health climate study. These presentations highlighted the mental health problems facing both the Andrews University campus and society in general.</p> <p> University President John Wesley Taylor V opened the summit with a welcome that emphasized the importance of mental health to the Christian community. Drawing on the biblical account of the prophet Elijah in 1 King 19, Taylor noted that Elijah was overwhelmed with fear and isolation when he cried out to God for death. The audience was reminded that God recognized Elijah’s mental struggles and helped him address them, proving that God holds mental health in high esteem.</p> <p> Harvey Burnett, PhD, chair of the School of Social & Behavioral Sciences, gave the first plenary presentation. Burnett began his keynote with an emotional account of his daughter’s battle with depression. Burnett underscored the urgent crisis of rising suicide and depression rates among youth and the elderly in the United States—as well as within the Seventh-day Adventist church. He shared that researchers have observed a significant rise in depression associated with the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. In order to reverse the present trends, Burnett concluded that more substantial care and resources for combating the stigma of mental health and depression—as well as greater access to treatment—are needed.</p> <p> Stacey Nicely, PhD, director of the Counseling & Testing Center and clinical assistant professor, and Karl Bailey, PhD, professor and program director for psychology, followed Burnett by presenting the results of a mental health survey distributed to the campus. Despite representing a small convenience sample, the results of the survey gave important insights into the mental health concerns of Andrews students and employees.</p> <p> Andrews students, on average, rated the mental health state of campus higher than the U.S., and the majority of students surveyed seemed to have a generally positive outlook on life. However, the continued importance of mental health support was emphasized, and Nicely shared that the Department of Graduate Psychology & Counseling and Academic Live Care, a telehealth service, continue to support students dealing with depression and suicidal ideation.</p> <p> The survey also offered insights into the faculty and staff at Andrews. Bailey noted that when the mental health of employees is poor in academic institutions, they tend to go elsewhere for work. The survey results showed that the burnout rate for Andrews employees who participated in the survey was higher than the national average across other industries.</p> <p> The second night of the summit featured Willie Hucks, DMin, assistant to the president for Mission & Culture, who gave a plenary presentation on “The Benefits of Shabbat for a Stressed Community.” Hucks provided a biblical foundation for the campus’ Shabbat Initiative. He also shared his insights into the biblical principles that should guide individuals and institutions in establishing the rest God intended, leading to work-life balance and improved mental health for all.</p> <p> Citing the biblical story in Luke 10, Hucks highlighted that Christ asked Martha to rest from her service and sit with Him and her sister, Mary, testifying to the necessity of rest from even positive work. Hucks shared that Shabbat has several benefits for members of the Andrews community, including fulfilling the University’s core values, heightening a sense of personal value, creating a healthier mental outlook, promoting increased physical wellness, developing a stronger walk with God, producing a strengthened culture and generating renewed energy for fulfilling spiritual missions.</p> <p> To conclude the summit, Stacie Hatfield, PhD, assistant professor of anthropology and director of the behavioral sciences program, led an interdisciplinary panel of University faculty and administrators. The panelists included Jean Cadet, chair of the School of Population Health, Nutrition & Wellness; Roy Gatón, chair of the Department of Practical & Applied Theology; Carole Woolford-Hunt, chair of the School of Graduate Psychology & Counseling; Wagner Kuhn, chief academic officer; and Willie Hucks.</p> <p> The panel explored the critical issues raised by the institutional mental health climate survey. These included the high percentage of employees feeling “distance in my relationships with others,” acknowledging feelings of “inadequacy,” and stating they felt their contributions were not “recognized.”</p> <p> Audience members contributed suggestions on how to address some of the challenges identified in the study. Hatfield also started the process of building belonging during the discussion. She encouraged attendees to form new connections with other attendees by sharing reflections on positive memories in small groups.</p> <p> Twyla Smith, MSW, assistant professor of social work and director of field education for the School of Social Work, served as host for both nights of the summit. Carlisle Sutton, sponsored research officer, delivered the closing remarks, urging attendees to recognize their collective responsibility to foster a more positive mental health climate at Andrews. He challenged everyone to take action, beginning the next day.</p> <p> Recordings of the plenaries can be viewed on the Andrews University <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@AndrewsUniversity/streams">YouTube channel</a>. To learn more about the Summit on Social Consciousness and its previous installments, please visit the Office of Research & Creative Scholarship <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/services/research/research_events/conferences/summit_social_consciousness/index.html">website</a>.</p> <p> Individuals who feel distressed should seek support from a crisis counselor:</p> <ul> <li> Andrews University’s Counseling & Testing Center: 269-471-3470</li> <li> Andrews Telehealth for 24/7 mental healthcare: 866-349-5575</li> <li> National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Helpline, Monday through Friday, 10 a.m.–10 p.m. EST <ul> <li> Call: 800-950-NAMI (9264)</li> <li> Online chat: <a href="http://www.nami.org/help">www.nami.org/help</a></li> <li> Text 988 to NAMI (9264) to receive free 24/7 crisis support via text message</li> </ul> </li> </ul> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> <u font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box;">                    </u></div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> To learn more about studying at Andrews University, please visit <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/admissions/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">Enrollment</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> 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; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">positions</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> 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; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">donation</a>.</div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> 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; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">here</a>.</div> Thu, 17 Apr 2025 11:30:53 +0000 Hyve Conference Promotes Innovation at Andrews http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/67141 <p> Andrews University hosted the third annual North American Hyve International Conference from March 27–29, a gathering where students, entrepreneurs, ministry leaders and businesspeople networked with fellow innovators and pitched their ideas. Through various workshops and programs on campus, practicing entrepreneurs shared their experiences and advice on how to cultivate a strong business in a way that glorifies God.</p> <p> The collaborative efforts of Hyve International, led by Founder and President Jesse Zwiker, and Andrews University’s Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship, directed by Matias Soto, produced a meaningful weekend of fellowship, education and professional development. Both leaders served as speakers during the weekend and coordinated with event volunteers to ensure a smooth experience for all participants.</p> <p> “It exceeded my expectations,” said Gael Rutayisire, international business and French student, of the conference. “I met a lot of people, investors, start-ups, and they know what they want.”</p> <p> Attendees began their conference experience on Thursday morning with presentations by Lydia Matiushenko, CEO of CleanMiles, and Dani Cruz, an entrepreneur and finance student at Andrews University. In her presentation titled “Crafting the Ultimate Customer Journey: Strategies for Success,” Matiushenko emphasized the importance of crafting a business around the needs and best interests of customers.</p> <p> Cruz’s presentation was on online marketing and sales, and he talked extensively about the lessons and trials he has gone through during his own business sales ventures. His developing career in sales and business has shown him ways of utilizing and effectively capitalizing on sales leads without negatively impacting his personal life. Addressing a room full of veteran entrepreneurs, Cruz underscored that as fruitful as business can be, having adequate time for religious and home life should be a priority.</p> <p> On Thursday night, the Hyve Inter-Collegiate Pitch Competition took place, where students from various Adventist universities competed to receive funding for their entrepreneurial endeavors. The winners included Adventist Movies by Leonardo Aguilera (Andrews University) in first place with a $5,000 prize, Fortify Storage by David Kapiniak (Burman University) in second place with a $2,000 prize, and Hint of Michigan by Alex Butnaru and Evan Keyes (Andrews University) in third place with a $1,000 prize.</p> <p> On Friday morning, Adventist entrepreneur Gary Rayner gave a keynote address. Rayner spoke about his various successes in business and how they have led him to understand the biblical principles of business. Citing texts like Ecclesiastes 9:10, “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might,” he shared that genuine care for others should be an entrepreneur's leading motive in business. Rayner’s most recent business endeavor is his company Plana, a non-profit Christian organization that builds community and provides resources for women dealing with infertility or unplanned pregnancies.</p> <p> The second day of the Hyve conference continued with panel discussions, networking opportunities and a keynote presentation by business owner Curtis Letniak. In the evening, a vespers service opened the Sabbath, featuring a performance by award-winning Christian singer and Andrews graduate student Kevin Anthony Fowler (stage name K-Anthony). Several entrepreneurs shared testimonies of how God helped them in their private lives and how they were ultimately able to bless others in their ministries and businesses.</p> <p> David Asscherick, an ordained Seventh-day Adventist minister and director of Light Bearers Ministry, then delivered a passionate message about Boaz, who he described as an excellent example of what it means to be a godly person in business. Boaz was an honorable businessman who knew his workers personally and went out of his way to show care for a new employee—Ruth. Asscherick also pointed out that the era of the Judges, when the story of Ruth and Boaz takes place, was one of the darkest times in Israel’s history. Despite this—in part due to Boaz’s faithfulness as an honorable business owner and God-fearing man—he noted that the union between Ruth and Boaz produced a bloodline leading to David, Israel’s greatest king, and Jesus Christ, the king of the universe.</p> <p> Discussions on how to be a better Christian businessperson continued on Saturday, the last day of the conference. Various talks and panel discussions explored how to provide business training for individuals and leaders in the Adventist church while still keeping the focus on meaningful ministry.</p> <p> Soto emphasized the value that Hyve has, especially for young Adventists who hope to balance entrepreneurial success and their faith. “Doing business and entrepreneurship does not have to be completely devoid of their religion or their spiritual connection with God,” he said. “They can be combined so that you could do business with a purpose.”</p> <p> After sunset, the Hyve Startup Pitch Showcase took place, where entrepreneurs competed for financial awards from successful Adventist innovators and businesspeople. Sean Sutton of Bible Bricks was selected by the investors as the winner, and the audience choice award went to Andrew Gonzalez of Radical Homes. All showcase participants were able to meet with investors on Sunday morning to discuss potential partnership opportunities and funding.</p> <p> Students from the Andrews University Action Group, Seminary Student Forum and School of Business actively participated in the Hyve Conference, both as entrepreneurs and as volunteers. They supported registration booths and ensured that guests were cared for throughout the weekend. Kato Golooba-Mutebi, finance student, noted, “The importance of an event like Hyve and why we brought it to Andrews was to also bring it to a place where we are also trying to work on the future. I think Hyve is building the future of Adventist business.” He added that he foresees a future where, with the help of Hyve, Adventist startup companies and entrepreneurs will become more notable and accepted across the business industry as they serve others with purpose.</p> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> <u font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box;">                    </u></div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> To learn more about studying at Andrews University, please visit <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/admissions/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">Enrollment</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> 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; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">positions</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> 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; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">donation</a>.</div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> 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; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">here</a>.</div> Thu, 10 Apr 2025 11:33:18 +0000 Wind Symphony Presents Spring Concert http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/67125 <div> The Andrews University Wind Symphony, under direction of Denisse Santos, will present its spring concert on Saturday, April 12, at 8 p.m. in the Howard Performing Arts Center. The concert, titled “Scenes of Summer,” celebrates all things summer, featuring pieces such as “Summer Dances” by Brian Balmages, “As Summer Was Just Beginning” by Larry Daehn and “The Purple Carnival March” arranged by Frank Erickson.</div> <div>  </div> <div> This concert will also showcase several student compositions. Carlos Lugo will debut his “Danza Fantástica,” a piece for piano and wind symphony, in this world premier performance. Also debuting a world premier is Naomi Pelayo Cang with her piece, “Mi Hogar Querido.” The first half of the concert will conclude with Yohance Mack’s “Take My Hand, Precious Lord,” a piece composed for the unveiling of the new Martin Luther King Jr. monuments in Benton Harbor and St. Joseph, Michigan.</div> <div>  </div> <div> After intermission, the second half of the concert will feature student conducting appearances by graduate students Earlon Cornwall (“Summer Dances”), Janelle Dobson (“As Summer Was Just Beginning”) and Francis Aguilar Jr. (“The Purple Carnival March”).</div> <div>  </div> <div> Tickets for this event can be purchased at howard.andrews.edu and are $8.50 for general seating and $6.50 for students and seniors. There is a two-ticket limit if purchasing with a student ID. For additional information, contact the Howard box office at 269-471-3560. For a full season schedule of events at the Howard Performing Arts Center, visit <a href="https://howard.andrews.edu">howard.andrews.edu</a>.</div> Thu, 03 Apr 2025 16:03:53 +0000