Andrews University Agenda

Andrews University Agenda http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/ News and Events at Andrews University en-us Copyright 2025, Andrews University Mon, 13 Oct 2025 07:56:00 +0000 Mon, 13 Oct 2025 07:56:00 +0000 webmaster@andrews.edu webmaster@andrews.edu Andrews Fall 2025 Enrollment and Rankings Report http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/68426 <p> Andrews University is once again taking the measure of current enrollment trends and is also reviewing and celebrating some of its remarkable recent national university rankings.</p> <p> <strong>Rankings</strong></p> <p> Andrews University climbed 31 places in this year’s 2026 U.S. News Best Colleges ranking and is now placed among the top 250 national universities in America. This continues the University’s upward movement, having risen 43 places in 2024 from the year prior. Andrews tied with Biola University, Grand Valley State University, the University of North Dakota and several others, ranking #242 out of 436 national universities.</p> <p> National universities are selected from more than 1,700 U.S. colleges and universities based on several metrics of academic quality and graduate success. Andrews is the only Adventist university to be classified by U.S. News as a national university, with other peer universities ranked as regional colleges or universities. This placement reflects the University’s competitiveness alongside both state universities and top private universities; Princeton, followed by MIT and Harvard, took the top spots in this year’s U.S. News ranking of national universities.</p> <p> “Students should know that there is an Adventist option among the nation’s leading universities. Andrews is proud to be that option, allowing students to grow in their faith without compromising academic strength or career readiness,” shares Anthony Bosman, learning officer.</p> <p> Andrews also climbed 29 places as a Top Performer on Social Mobility, ranking in the top half of national universities (#189 of 436). In this category, Andrews outranks most Michigan public universities, including Michigan State University and Western Michigan University. The placement is an indication of the University’s ongoing commitment to provide an affordable education that helps the upward social mobility of students and families.</p> <p> Additionally, the University rose in the ranking for Best Undergraduate Engineering Program, tying with Liberty University and several other undergraduate-focused engineering programs (#226). The Andrews University School of Engineering, in partnership with the Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship, provides students with opportunities to work with industry partners on real-world engineering projects. These engagements help students connect with and stand out to future employers.</p> <p> Andrews University was also recognized in Niche’s Best Colleges in America ranking system. The Niche rankings combine several metrics of academic quality and graduate success with student surveys. Significantly, Andrews was ranked among the top 10% of Best Christian Colleges in America (#26 of 314) and in the top 15% for Best Academics in America (#239 of 1,612). It placed highest of any Adventist university in both categories and was the only Adventist university to be included on the list of Colleges with the Best Professors in America (#329 of 1,595).</p> <p> Andrews was also recognized as the #1 Most Diverse College in America (#1 of 1,612), reflecting the diversity of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, and the #1 Best Small College in Michigan. A student in one survey noted, “As a student at Andrews University I enjoy the mix of people, hearing different languages, learning new ideas, and making friends from around the world.” They added, “I know that Andrews is not just about getting a degree; it’s about growing, strengthening my faith, and making lasting friendships.”</p> <p> Moreover, Niche recognized several of Andrews’ academic programs as among the nation’s best, including architecture, physical therapy, psychology and religion. Andrews offers both undergraduate and graduate options in all of these areas, as well as more than 100 other programs of study.</p> <p> “These rankings reflect the exceptional professors and programs of study that students can find at Andrews. Here they’ll experience the transformative learning opportunities they’d expect of a highly ranked national university within our close-knit, supportive faith community," says John Wesley Taylor V, University president.</p> <p> <strong>Enrollment</strong></p> <p> Following a review of fall census figures, Andrews University saw significant growth in its freshmen class, with a 13% enrollment increase of FTIAC (First Time in Any College) students compared to last year. The College of Professions also saw meaningful growth—a 9% increase—this fall, with many new students entering aviation and other programs.</p> <p> However, due in part to visa challenges, there was a 43% decrease in international students compared to last year. The University’s headcount enrollment for fall 2025 showed 2,967 students, reflecting a 2% decrease from last year. In response, the University has been working with international students who were not able to arrive in time for classes this fall, helping them join classes in the spring semester or online through Andrews’ Global Campus. The fall census numbers also indicated an overall modest increase in enrolled credit hours from last year, growing from 29,254 to 29,362 this fall.</p> <p> In addition to the fall census report, the University measures its unduplicated headcount, which includes the total number of students enrolled at Andrews over a 12-month period. Approximately one thousand additional students are included in this number, demonstrating that several programs do not follow the typical semester schedule.</p> <p> “We acknowledge that the challenges facing many of our students are real, but we are counting the blessings of our good God. We do not have a spirit of fear,” says Bordes Henry Saturné, vice president for Strategic Enrollment Management, Marketing & Communication. “We are confident that the same omnipotent God who has begun this magnificent work among us will bring it to completion with a resounding success. We praise God for His loving-kindness, and we move forward confidently by faith.”</p> Fri, 10 Oct 2025 11:23:13 +0000 Andrews Hosts Soccer and Volleyball Tournament http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/68403 <p> Students, coaches and parents from eight Seventh-day Adventist academies attended the first-ever Andrews University High School Soccer and Volleyball Invitational from Sept. 17–20, 2025. The student athletes competed in women’s volleyball and men’s soccer games over the course of the weekend, including a final night of placement and championship games.</p> <p> The volleyball matches took place in the Andreasen Center for Wellness and Johnson Gym, while the soccer games were held on the two University soccer fields. The participating schools included College View Academy, Highland View Academy, Hinsdale Adventist Academy, North Dallas Academy, Shenandoah Valley Academy, Takoma Academy, Wisconsin Academy and Andrews Academy. Participants were able to engage in athletic recreation and spiritual fellowship throughout the event.</p> <p> Simon Indreiu, a Hinsdale Adventist Academy soccer player, shared, “I’ve enjoyed being able to make a lot of connections with everyone else from the other schools and being able to just make some friends.”</p> <p> All eight schools were represented in the volleyball tournament. The team from Takoma Academy, located in Silver Spring, Maryland, earned third place overall after recovering from losing their first game to Andrews Academy. Abigail Oluwole, one of Takoma’s players, expressed excitement at being able to attend her first volleyball tournament. She shared, “I really like being able to see all the schools that are around the U.S., to be able to improve on volleyball and to gain experience as a team and to get closer to my teammates … and have Adventist fun.”</p> <p> North Dallas Academy’s volleyball coach, Francis Nicholas, also shared his appreciation for the community surrounding the invitational. “What I have enjoyed is the fellowship that we have with all the other teams. They’re not just being secluded [from] each other. They’re talking with other teams, and that’s what this is all about,” he said. The North Dallas team, based in Richardson, Texas, was successful during the tournament, going undefeated until the championship game and ultimately placing second. Nicholas credited the team’s ability to play together and “for each other” as their keys to victory.</p> <p> College View Academy, located in Lincoln, Nebraska, was the first-place winner of the volleyball tournament, defeating North Dallas in a competitive championship match. Dan Carlson, a parent of the College View players, appreciated the fact that all the teams were able to play each other at least once during the tournament and that the busy schedule flowed “cleanly” throughout the weekend.</p> <p> Six teams participated in the men’s soccer bracket. Andrews Academy was represented by both its junior varsity and varsity teams, and both teams placed in the top four. Wisconsin Academy, based in Columbus, Wisconsin, beat the junior varsity Andrews team for third place. Shenandoah Valley Academy, located in New Market, Virginia, lost to the Andrews varsity team in a tightly contested championship game, earning them second place.</p> <p> Andrew Dennison, a Highland View Academy soccer player, said he liked witnessing growth in both skill and cohesion from his team. “I’ve really enjoyed just connecting with the team better, playing a lot of games, and just getting better at playing.”</p> <p> The first installment of the High School Soccer and Volleyball Invitational was enjoyed by both visiting participants and local attendees. University Athletic Director Kevin Wooldridge shared that he and the Athletics team plan to make the invitational annual and “envision this tournament growing in popularity to where it is as well attended as the Newmyer Classic Basketball Tournament.” The annual <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/agenda/66865">Newmyer Classic</a> has been hosted by the Office of Athletics since the 2000s and invites Adventist academies to compete in a weekend-long basketball tournament.</p> <p> Wooldridge also described the soccer and volleyball invitational as an opportunity to showcase Andrews University to high school students. “We want to immerse them in the Andrews experience. This gives them the opportunity to attend campus worship services, eat in our award-winning cafeteria, meet our coaches, see and play in our beautiful facilities. These tournaments are vital in helping our academy graduates make decisions on where they would like to continue their education.”</p> <p> Additionally, Wooldridge acknowledged the many people who helped organize and run the tournament, including Richie Silie, assistant athletic director, Jamie Stacey, athletic trainer and intramural director, the Division of Marketing & Enrollment Management, the Cardinal coaching staff, student workers, student athletes and individuals from the Physical Therapy Program.</p> <p> Please visit the Andrews University Office of Athletics <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/agenda/66865">website</a> for updates on future installments of the High School Soccer and Volleyball Invitational and other upcoming athletic events.</p> <div> <u font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); box-sizing: border-box;">                    </u></div> <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> </div> Mon, 06 Oct 2025 15:57:39 +0000 University Advancement Welcomes New Team Members http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/68360 <p> The Office of University Advancement at Andrews University has welcomed several new employees to its team over the past year. The team members represent several areas on campus, including the Office of Alumni Services, the Office of Development and the Office of Planned Giving & Trust Services.</p> <p> <strong>Office of University Advancement</strong></p> <p> <strong>Miriam Taylor</strong> serves as the University’s new advancement event planner. In her role, she is responsible for organizing details and logistics related to Homecoming, regional alumni events, the President’s Council and other activities planned by University Advancement.</p> <p> A certified meeting professional, Taylor holds a master’s degree in human resource management and development from the University of Salford. Most recently, she served as community development coordinator and event planner for Hope Channel international and, before that, as executive assistant and associate meeting planner for the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.</p> <p> Taylor most looks forward to getting to know the faculty, staff, students and alumni of Andrews. She affirms, “I would love for everyone engaging with us, either here on campus or through other off-campus activities, to feel that they are part of our family.”</p> <p> <strong>Maxine Umana</strong> brings a wealth of institutional knowledge and relationship-building experience to her new role as engagement officer. A proud double alumna of Andrews University with degrees in personal ministries and religion, she has served the Andrews community for over eleven years, including two years as administrative assistant, librarian and contract teacher at Andrews Academy and nine years as administrative assistant and recruiter for the J.N. Andrews Honors Program.</p> <p> Umana coordinates social media and other forms of communication for the four offices within University Advancement, sharing their stories with alumni, constituents and friends of the University. She ensures branding consistency, advocates for her team members and empowers effective communication.</p> <p> “In this role, I help tell the bigger picture about Andrews. It has to do with the future of the University,” she shares. “I’m seeing the importance of these offices and how their work makes a difference—through maintaining relationships and how interconnected they are. I’m glad I’m able to help out in a bigger way.”</p> <p> <strong>Office of Alumni Services</strong></p> <p> As the new director of Alumni Services, <strong>Jeana Wallin</strong> serves as an ambassador for Andrews University. In this key position, she develops, coordinates and directs activities for Andrews alumni. She shares that she hopes to bring “fresh outlook and ideas from past experiences as an Andrews University student and current alumnus” to the role.</p> <p> Wallin graduated from Andrews with a bachelor’s degree in public relations and a minor in general studies. She went on to gain valuable work experience as an outreach specialist, marketing specialist, manager, event planner, consultant, client relations professional and registrar. “I have acquired skills from all past working experiences that I will be able to incorporate into this new position as director of Alumni Services,” she says.</p> <p> “God’s direction and leading” brought Wallin back to serve at Andrews, and she most looks forward to “connecting and engaging with past and present students, because they are our future.” She is excited to embark on this new journey at Andrews with her family, and she places God at the center of her new role.</p> <p> <strong>Office of Development</strong></p> <p> <strong>Steven Manoukian</strong> oversees his team as director of Development. Passionate about people, culture and missions, he carries out various duties for the office, including administrative work, strategizing, meeting with donors and overseeing annual fundraising campaigns.</p> <p> Manoukian holds bachelor's degrees in business administration and theology from Middle East University and a master’s degree from Newbold University. Drawn to serving the worldwide Adventist church through the diverse student body at Andrews, he brings experience in the pastoral, missions and administrative fields to his role. His vision for the future includes updating campus buildings, supporting a self-sufficient University endowment and seeing Andrews become a leader in world missions.</p> <p> He has enjoyed the kindness of his colleagues, the beauty of the seasons and the creativity of the campus. “I have worked in many parts of the world and Andrews has been one of those places where Seventh-day Adventist values are upheld and Jesus is shared on campus,” Manoukian notes. “I hope people from all over the world … will know how much Andrews is invested in the mission and the values of the Seventh-day Adventist church.”</p> <p> <strong>Esther Penn</strong>, gift records associate, works to accurately record, update and maintain donor contributions in the University’s database. She ensures the integrity of gift data and supports the timely acknowledgement of donors. Penn notes that she has enjoyed “being part of a mission-driven environment where every gift supports education and research.” She adds, “I’ve found it especially rewarding to contribute behind the scenes to meaningful donor relationships and long-term institutional impact.”</p> <p> Born and raised in Berrien Springs, Michigan, Penn worked at Hinsdale Hospital in Illinois after completing her education. She went on to live in several places across the United States while raising her two sons, before becoming part of the Andrews community in 2014.</p> <p> “In the future, I hope to continue strengthening the accuracy and efficiency of our gift processing systems to better support the University’s fundraising goals,” Penn says. “I also look forward to contributing to a collaborative community that values continuous improvement and shared success.”</p> <p> Responsible for conducting research and analyzing data to support the efforts of major gifts officers, <strong>Hayden Baldwin</strong>, prospect management officer, plays a key role in the Office of Development. He works closely with the Advancement team, helping connect alumni and donors with their goals and vision for Andrews.</p> <p> Originally from Arizona, Baldwin graduated with a bachelor’s degree in computer science from Andrews University. Before his current role, he gained important skills working for the Office of Information Technology Services and Office of Alumni Services, providing technology support, contributing to the documentation of internal processes and developing custom digital signage solutions.</p> <p> Baldwin has enjoyed being surrounded by a team of “great people” while working at Andrews. He shares, “My colleagues have always been hard-working and dedicated to the mission of Andrews. Perhaps even more important, they are dedicated to surrendering to God’s will in their lives.”</p> <p> <strong>Office of Planned Giving & Trust Services</strong></p> <p> Director of Planned Giving & Trust Services<strong> Cindy Hill</strong> looks forward to helping individuals and families discover and articulate their legacy, while fostering a culture of generosity within the Andrews campus and community. “Partnering with donors that wish to leave a lasting legacy and impact students in their journey to find their purpose and serve faithfully is both fulfilling and rewarding,” she shares.</p> <p> Hill holds a degree in accounting and business management as well as a Certified Specialist in Planned Giving professional designation. She previously served as financial analyst and controller for AdventHealth, financial services professional with Prudential Financial, account and project manager for a boutique estate planning firm in Atlanta, and assistant director for Planned Giving & Trust Services at Andrews.</p> <p> “It is a joy to work for a higher education institution that values strong academics but also prepares students to serve their communities with excellence, compassion and vision—within the context of a Seventh-day Adventist Christian worldview,” she says. </p> <div> <u font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); box-sizing: border-box;">                    </u></div> <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> </div> Wed, 24 Sep 2025 14:10:33 +0000 Andrews Hosts Inaugural Mental Health Symposium http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/68351 <p> From Sept. 11–14, Andrews University hosted the first Thrive: Mental Health Symposium. Coordinated by the University’s Counseling & Testing Center, the symposium was themed “Building a Mental Health Friendly Campus” and featured several breakout sessions, plenary presentations and multiple resource fairs. Throughout the weekend, attendees were inspired, empowered and equipped to build healthier relationships with mental health and to foster a more caring campus community.</p> <p> The symposium was created in response to the University’s Summit on Social Consciousness, which took place from March 31–April 1, 2025. The summit was themed “Our Mental Health Crisis” and explored mental health problems facing both the Andrews campus and wider society. To address these ongoing conversations, organizers planned the Thrive: Mental Health Symposium to take place at the start of the 2025–2026 school year.</p> <p> The event began with an outdoor resource fair on Thursday afternoon, which exhibited a variety of mental health resources available on campus. At the symposium’s opening session that evening, Stacey Nicely, director of the Counseling & Testing Center, spoke on the creation of the event, noting, “Rather than always looking at mental health through a crisis lens, what if we created a space—an annual event—to help people learn strategies not just to survive … but teaching you how to thrive.”</p> <p> The session continued with acknowledgements, a moment of remembrance for Sept. 11, 2001, and a special musical performance from graduate student and Juno-award-winner K-Anthony. Plenary presenter John T. Boston II, evangelist and motivational speaker, shared his personal testimony surrounding mental health and God’s miracles and protection in his life.</p> <p> Boston affirmed to listeners, “Your pain is not lost. Your purpose is not forgotten. You are seen. You are visible. The reason we have a mental health symposium is because we’ve been through some mess. The beautiful thing is … you will be reminded that no matter how long it’s been or what you’ve been through, you were not rejected; you were protected.”</p> <p> The session closed with a presentation by Jennifer Burrill, assistant vice president for Campus & Student Life and Residence Life, who spoke about the University Student Intervention Team and support services offered on campus. Participants were then encouraged to attend breakout sessions led by students, faculty and members of the community. These sessions continued on Friday morning, covering topics such as suicide, digital wellness, behavioral therapy tools and brain function.</p> <p> On Saturday, Sept. 13, attendees were invited to a second resource fair that displayed mental health resources available in the surrounding community. Esther Caro, a graduate counseling psychology student and therapist with The Empowerment Center, a domestic violence shelter in Benton Harbor, shared, “I’m here to let the community know [about] this free service that we offer. They can get free therapy services, free legal help, free shelter if they have been through intimate partner violence.” She added, “It’s good to get the word out and help people know that we have these services—that they don’t have to go through it alone.”</p> <p> The Andrews Community Counseling Center, which has been in service for over 30 years, also offers free counseling to community members. Allen Nansasi, a graduate student studying clinical mental health counseling, noted, “It doesn’t matter what age group; as long as you need services, you can always come and receive counseling … couples, family or any[thing] else.”</p> <p> Other community-led groups, such as Pioneer Memorial Church’s Belong Ministries, focus on building connections between students and local families. Panankosi Mbunjwa, one of Belong’s representatives, explained that the ministry is important because it “provides a place for students to go.” He continued, “Students come here—sometimes they come by themselves, they leave their families far away. We try to provide a home away from home for them.”</p> <p> The afternoon session began after the resource fair with a prayer, welcome and second musical performance by K-Anthony. Participants were then invited to attend a third and final round of breakout sessions, covering topics including boundaries, campus care, mental fitness, therapy and social emotional competence.</p> <p> After the breakout sessions, Nicely chaired a panel discussion on the topic of faith and mental health. Panel members included Carole Woolford-Hunt, chair of the School of Graduate Psychology & Counseling; L. Ann Hamel, psychologist; Karl Bailey, professor of psychology; Natasha Richards, assistant professor of chaplaincy; and Lindsay Syeh, commissioned pastor.</p> <p> The panelists discussed spiritual struggles and mental health struggles; how to change one’s picture of God; and support tools and resources. Speaking on the interconnectedness of faith and mental health, Bailey shared, “Our educational ministries, our health ministries and our development ministries go alongside our preaching ministries.” He added, “We have to approach faith not just as a set of beliefs but as a set of actions.”</p> <p> Each panelist also shared messages of hope with those gathered. “God made us in community,” said Woolford-Hunt. “We are meant to be in community, and community is meant to help and support us. We can’t pull away from it … we need to get back in community with each other.”</p> <p> The symposium closed with final remarks, followed by a prayer from Shane Anderson, lead pastor of Pioneer Memorial Church. Frances Faehner, vice president for Campus & Student Life, encouraged each participant to pray for God’s heart as they returned to their communities, remarking, “Just as Jesus gives us new mercies every morning, He puts people in our path to be His hands and feet for Him every day.”</p> <p> Thrive: Mental Health Symposium will return next year, with a focus on hyperconnectivity, artificial intelligence and implications for mental health. </p> <div> <u font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); box-sizing: border-box;">                    </u></div> <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> </div> Thu, 18 Sep 2025 11:41:20 +0000 STEM Day at Andrews Engages Adventist Educators http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/68319 <p> Nearly 50 educators from schools in the Lake Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, as well as other conferences across the North American Division of Seventh-day Adventists, participated in the second STEM Day at Andrews University on Sept. 4, 2025. This professional development event for educators in the STEM disciplines—science, technology, engineering and mathematics—enabled teachers to engage in interactive labs and discussions. Sessions covered topics such as physics, biology, geometry, innovation, coding and chemistry, all designed to be implemented in K–12 classrooms. The event was co-sponsored by Andrews University and the Lake Union Education Department.</p> <p> STEM Day opened in the Science Complex, under the theme “STEM by Design: Hands-on = Minds-on Engaged.” Ruth Horton, director of education for the Lake Union, and Wagner Kuhn, Andrews University’s chief academic officer, welcomed participants and spoke about the goals of cultivating Adventist education. Anthony Bosman, chair of the Department of Mathematics, gave a brief worship in which he quoted various scientists, mathematicians and Adventist pioneer Ellen White to highlight how science and mathematics reflect the brilliance of God.</p> <p> After the opening program, the visiting educators were able to participate in four different lab lesson plans that were tailored to specific student age ranges. The labs were led by several Andrews science and mathematics professors, and each lab was designed to be interactive, physical and engaging, with the goal of helping students better comprehend and retain information about the subject. Once participants completed a lab, they were able to ask questions and discuss how to replicate the process with the lab kits they received from STEM Day organizers.</p> <p> Monica Nudd, one of the lead organizers of STEM Day and the director of Andrews’ Mission: Invent initiative, described the free, high-quality lab kits as a truly impactful blessing. “The schools receive materials that they can use year after year. They don’t have to pay anything to come [to STEM Day],” she said. “Most things that are this caliber would cost hundreds of dollars, and [for this event] they come for free. So, we need to get the word out of how good [STEM Day] is so that more people can attend.”</p> <p> All participating teachers and administrators were able to take kits full of reusable lab supplies back to their schools at no cost, thanks in large part to a $40,000 grant provided to Andrews University by the Versacare Foundation, an independent Seventh-day Adventist philanthropic organization. The grant also covered hotel accommodations for those who needed it, allowing for a wider variety of educators to attend.</p> <p> In addition to working on the labs, the visiting participants were treated to a tour of the University’s Agriculture Education Center and Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship. At the close of the program, Nudd led a group discussion with the educators to gather their feedback on the day. Several teachers expressed deep appreciation for the STEM Day labs, tours and discussions that occurred.</p> <p> Jeremy Hall, vice president for Education for the Michigan Conference, spoke highly of the training that STEM Day leaders provided. “I think that learning needs to be fun, and I think that what I’ve seen from the people who have been teaching the teachers, they’re making the learning fun and interesting,” he shared. “Even though we’re here at a higher-level university with the ability to have complexity, it’s showing our teachers that you don’t have to be a science professor to do science experiments.”</p> <p> Nathan Crabtree, a fifth through eighth grade teacher at Aboite Christian School, also praised the labs and professional development instruction. “I really enjoyed the coding seminar that was given. That’s something I have no experience in, and I really enjoyed doing that,” he stated. “Chemistry is [also] always fun. Finding not just experiments that can be done, but also safely, in the elementary school classroom, I do like.”</p> <p> Both Nudd and Horton shared that they hope to continue STEM Day and make it an annual event. Their goal is for future installments to reach even more Adventist teachers and schools across the Lake Union and beyond. Participating educators and school administrators affirmed that they are highly in favor of the initiative continuing annually and hope to see additional mathematics subjects and new labs on other topics like physical engineering.</p> <p> To learn more about Andrews University’s STEM Division and its initiatives, please visit the division’s <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/cas/stem/">web page</a>. </p> <div> <u font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); box-sizing: border-box;">                    </u></div> <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> </div> Thu, 11 Sep 2025 17:24:02 +0000 Andrews Hosts Business Teachers Conference http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/68287 <p> The biennial Seventh-day Adventist Business Teachers Conference took place on the campus of Andrews University from June 29 to July 3. Themed “Adapting to a Changing World: Challenges for Small Businesses,” the conference featured plenary presentations, worship sessions and group discussions with participants from around the world. Guests had the opportunity to participate in person or attend the sessions online via Zoom.</p> <p> Created in the early 2000s, this year marked the 13th iteration of the conference, and it was well attended by educators from the Adventist community. According to Lucile Sabas, coordinator for the conference and associate professor of finance and economics at Andrews, attendees represented 18 different academic institutions across 10 countries. Sabas attributed the high rates of international attendees to the 62nd General Conference Session in St. Louis, which started the same day the Adventist Business Teachers Conference ended.</p> <p> “The objective of this conference is to gather together Adventist business teachers for them to create networks and exchange their research to learn from one another,” said Sabas, sharing that having a diverse and well-represented group of attendees was important. “It’s so rewarding and exciting to see all these business teachers gathering together, and they get to know each other, what they are working on, and learn from one another.”</p> <p> As various aspects of the business world are consistently reshaped by new technologies and other societal forces, this conference presented excellent opportunities for some of Adventism’s best business educators to interact with one another. Not only were participants able to take part in professional development ahead of the 2025–2026 school year, but they also were equipped to engage with the developing business world as innovators and entrepreneurs.</p> <p> The first plenary session took place on June 30 and was presented by Nelu Burcea, who at the time served as director of communication and Public Affairs and Religious Liberty (PARL) for the Adventist church in Romania and has since been elected to serve as director of PARL for the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. Under the topic “Moral Markets,” Burcea emphasized the need for the protection and preservation of moral values when operating in the business world. He reflected on the sentiment of “being in the world” while not being aligned with it, as found in the biblical text John 15.</p> <p> Subsequent plenaries, presentations and group discussions covered social and ethical matters of doing business. Matias Soto, director of Andrews Innovation, spoke about using God-given creativity and innovation to become market leaders and to set the standard for ethical and successful business practices. Michael Cafferky, author of several books on doing business and management with biblical principles, discussed his personal journey of discovering how to best intersect faith and entrepreneurship.</p> <p> Several presentations discussed the value of having products and employees that represent a wide range of cultures and demographics, sharing that diversity and inclusivity can help a business appeal to a larger pool of clientele. Other presentations covered the topic of artificial intelligence, as it has seen a sharp increase in societal usage and practical application in countless industries over recent years.</p> <p> International markets were heavily featured throughout the conference. Perla Atweh, accountant and lecturer at Middle East University in Lebanon, spoke about the opportunities that new technologies are providing for small businesses in the country’s public sector. Josephine Ganu, director of research and grants at Adventist University of Africa, presented a qualitative study that explored religious beliefs and trends pertaining to small business entrepreneurs in Ghana.</p> <p> Ultimately, the conference helped equip educators with tools to strengthen their students for various tasks within the business world. Sabas shared, “We are contributing to prepare young people all over the world to be professionals. Many of them are working for the church, but not all of them. What we have learned is that the students that we are preparing for the secular world are doing a tremendous job.”</p> <p> Sabas concluded that the continuation of the conference will help ensure “that we are making a contribution, and a good impact, a positive impact on our society.”</p> <p> To learn more about Andrews University’s School of Business Administration, please visit their <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/cp/sba/index.html">webpage</a>. </p> <div> <u font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); box-sizing: border-box;">                    </u></div> <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> </div> Thu, 04 Sep 2025 10:25:01 +0000 New Book About the Genesis Creation Account http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/68247 <p> Exploring a wide range of issues in the creation/evolution debate, a new book by Adventist scientist J.C. Walton was recently released by Andrews University Press. “Justice for Genesis: A Scientific Exploration” addresses the most important questions that scientists ask about origins regarding the claims of the first book of the Bible.</p> <p> It is divided into five sections, each containing chapters dealing with topics such as the clash of worldviews in the scientific community regarding origins; the literary composition of the book of Genesis; chronology and earth history; archaeology issues; and the ultimate portrait of God in Genesis.</p> <p> Walton serves as emeritus professor of chemistry at the University of St. Andrews, Scotland. A widely published and recognized scientist, he has been honored by the Royal Society of Chemistry and by Scotland’s National Academy. Walton has also authored and co-authored hundreds of scientific articles, along with two books published by Cambridge University Press.</p> <p> The foreword to “Justice for Genesis” is written by Andrea Luxton, former president of Andrews University. “Walton is careful not to overstate,” writes Luxton, “but he levels the playing field by showing how the logical positions of those that debunk Genesis are in fact significantly lacking in logic themselves. … For those who hold to the vital role of Scripture, and particularly Genesis, in forming their worldview, this book will be a refreshing and encouraging read.”</p> <p> The publication of “Justice for Genesis” is part of a succession of works from Andrews dealing with faith and science issues, according to Ronald Knott, director of Andrews University Press. “We’re proud to publish Dr. Walton’s important book,” Knott says, “and we’re pleased to have it take its place beside Leonard Brand’s classic ‘Faith, Reason, and Earth History,’ the two volumes of ‘The Genesis Creation Account’ and ‘Design and Catastrophe: 51 Scientists Explore Evidence in Nature.’” These and all other Andrews University Press publications are available at Adventist Book Centers, online retailers and directly from the press at <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/universitypress/">universitypress.andrews.edu</a>.</p> <p> Andrews University Press is the primary academic publishing house serving the Adventist Church worldwide. Its publications are authorized by a board of directors chaired by John Wesley Taylor V, president of Andrews University.</p> <div> <u font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); box-sizing: border-box;">                    </u></div> <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> </div> Mon, 25 Aug 2025 08:39:36 +0000 Andrews University Launches BEAR Summer Lab http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/68236 <div> Andrews University recently conducted the Berrien Engineering, AI & Robotics (BEAR) Summer Lab, a STEM immersion program designed to ignite curiosity and build foundational skills in engineering, coding and robotics for middle school students. This year, two weeklong programs took place, from June 23–27 and July 7–11.</div> <div>  </div> <div> Hosted in Chan Shun Hall on the Andrews campus by the School of Business Administration, the lab was offered in partnership with the Andrews University Centers for Organizational Resilience & Excellence (AUCORE), ThinkerBox and Versacare. Deriving from their shared mission, the lab aimed to provide impactful, values-driven educational experiences that prepared young learners for future success.</div> <div>  </div> <div> “The BEAR Lab is more than just a robotics camp,” says Armand Poblete, executive director of AUCORE and ThinkerBox. “It’s a launchpad for students to explore STEM concepts through real-world applications, while gaining confidence, creativity and collaborative skills.”</div> <div>  </div> <div> Each day included guided engineering builds, coding workshops and robotics challenges. Class sizes were limited to 14 students per week to ensure meaningful collaboration and connection with peers as well as individualized attention from expert, university-level mentors. Students had the opportunity to use the award-winning VEX IQ platform to explore the fundamentals of mechanical design, computer programming and team-based problem solving in a fun and hands-on learning environment.</div> <div>  </div> <div> After a week of working on real-world engineering problems, developing skills and fostering friendships, students presented their final creations in a celebratory showcase. Following completion of the program, each participant—even those with no prior robotics experience—was equipped with the ability to take on FIRST Robotics events and other STEM challenges and competitions. </div> <div>  </div> <div> <u font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); box-sizing: border-box;">                    </u></div> <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> </div> Wed, 20 Aug 2025 14:01:14 +0000