University Advancement Report 2022–2023

University Advancement Report 2022-2023

challenged to become individuals whose skills, integrity and sense of purpose glorify God and distinguish them in the workplace and in the world.

A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

AS I CONSIDER THE MILESTONES ACHIEVED AT CBU OVER THE PAST YEAR, I CELEBRATE THE GENEROSITY AND KINDNESS OF OUR LANCER FRIENDS AND AM GRATEFUL FOR THE LORD’S CONTINUED BLESSINGS.

California Baptist University began in 1950 as a small campus with 42 students and is now a top Christian University in Southern California, offering 157 associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs (combined). More importantly, CBU has an established reputation for excellence and integrity which means our graduates are highly regarded and sought after by employers throughout the Inland Empire and beyond.

CBU Lancer Athletics passed several milestones this past year, including being granted active status as a Division I institution by the NCAA Division I Board of Directors. Thanks, in part, to a generous donor, the newly constructed CBU Soccer Stadium, featuring lighted competition fields, a practice field, and a 300-meter practice track for the cross country/ track program, is complete. A new clubhouse for the baseball and softball programs, including locker rooms, a sports medicine area, physical therapy space, offices, a conference room, upgraded concessions, and balconies overlooking both fields, is expected to be complete by Summer 2024.

In other school news, CBU’s music and theatre programs have merged to create the Shelby and Ferne

There are so many good things happening at California Baptist University; I invite you to visit our website for regular updates (calbaptist.edu).

Much of CBU’s success is possible because of faithful friends whose generosity reached a historic level in FY22, led by the most significant estate gift in University history. As well, an anonymous donor committed over $1M to Lancer Athletics, and a generous local family gave $5.5M, which was partially matched as part of our $40M Endowment Challenge, creating a new $19M endowment fund.

It continues to be my honor and pleasure to serve the CBU community, and I am eager to see all the good things we will accomplish together over

CBU STUDENTS SERVING, LEARNING AND TRAVELING THE WORLD (AGAIN)

In May 2022 CBU began its mobilization season. More than 140 participants comprising 16 teams served in 13 countries. Teams visited areas in Africa, Asia, Central America and Europe.

International Service Projects (ISP) was put on a two-year hiatus caused by the disruption of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“They’ve been equipped to share the faith,” said John King, former director of mobilization. “We are so grateful to God here in this moment. There are so many ways that He’s answered prayers along the way.”

Students in a Field Practicum traveled to Peru in late April 2022 to learn more about the ecosystem, culture and geology of the planet using Peru as an example. Students saw firsthand the methods Peruvians use to conserve energy and how the environment plays a role in their way of life from growing their food to producing goods.

The tour explored Lima, Cuzco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Ollantaytambo and Pisac, and it exposed the students to a variety of environments from busy city life to the quiet mountainside.

“It made me appreciate the conveniences we are so blessed with,” said Meaghan Nunley, a biomedical sciences senior. “It has opened my mind seeing a developing country firsthand and

Students in the Cultural Social Service Engagement Practicum traveled to Australia for two weeks and learned about indigenous people groups there.

The group took cultural tours with elders of indigenous tribes and heard from University of Sydney researchers.

CBU STUDENTS SAY

THANK YOU!

EZEKIEL HOLLIDAY, Senior Business Administration Riverside, CA

I am a first-generation college student and am sincerely honored to have been selected as a scholarship recipient. I am without words and forever grateful for this generosity.

I had a rough time last spring. A machine fell on me, injured my arms, and shattered my wrists. I had no use of them for months, but I pushed through and finished the academic year. The financial impact of this accident on myself and my family had me scared that I would need to take this year off from CBU.

However, all things are possible for those who love God and are called to His purpose! I am truly thankful and blessed to have been supported on my educational journey, and I will give it all I have each day.

JASMIN REYNOSO, Senior Nursing Fontana, CA

As a 38-year-old mother, wife and nursing student, pursuing my education has been financially challenging. I am so thankful for gracious gifts!

This year, I was denied the Pell grant, and I panicked. How was I going to pay my tuition? I had also been given the opportunity to participate in a transcultural global trip with fifth-semester nursing students from CBU, which now seemed impossible. But my husband said, “Don’t worry, Jasmin, God is good, and He knows you want to serve not only your community but the world, and He will get you on that trip.” He was right.

I have no words other than to say THANK YOU over and over again. This gift has been invested well and will be paid forward. I am forever grateful.

New Endowed Scholarships in FY22 34

ONE new scholarship for the benefit of the College of Architecture, Visual Arts and Design.

TWO new scholarships for the benefit of the Dr. Bonnie G. Metcalf School of Education.

TWO new scholarships for the benefit of the College of Nursing.

THREE new scholarships for the benefit of the Dr. Robert K. Jabs School of Business.

THREE new scholarships for the benefit of the Shelby and Ferne Collinsworth School of Performing Arts.

FOUR new scholarships for the benefit of the College of Arts and Sciences.

FOUR new scholarships for the benefit of the general student population.

FIFTEEN new scholarship for the benefit of the School of Christian Ministries.

Fifteen of the new scholarships qualified for the $40M endowment challenge.

I grew up in Central Asia, allowing me to interact with a variety of cultures and build a new perspective of the world and of diverse individuals. Throughout my personal education, math has always been one of my favorite subjects, leading to my pursuit of becoming a math teacher.

Because of this generous gift, I am able to pursue my degree in mathematics education as well as a minor in TESOL, which allows for teaching English as a second language either in the United States or overseas. Thank you so much!

I am currently at a point in my life that I have fully committed to trusting in my Lord Jesus Christ. I am being called on a path toward flying missionaries and needed materials wherever God needs his Word and the positive godly impact of Christian Missionaries to go.

God is providing daily through scholarships just like this. The high financial cost of an aviation program, typical family expenses, including one child at CBU and the other at another Christian college is testament to His care.

I appreciate your willingness to support me in this God-seeking venture and encourage you to also support me by praying that God works greatly through me.

LYDIA SCOTT, Senior Mathematics

Rapid City, SD

CHRISTOPHER MAY, Senior Aviation Flight Perris, CA

MEET JOHN FREESE

IN FEBRUARY 2022, JOHN FREESE LEFT A 27-YEAR LAW ENFORCEMENT CAREER WITH THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, RIVERSIDE POLICE DEPARTMENT TO BECOME CBU’S DIRECTOR OF SAFETY SERVICES.

CBU has a non-sworn security force, unlike the UC system, making Freese’s relationship with the Riverside Police Department particularly important.

As universities across the nation work to ensure campus safety, Freese brings best practices that increase safety not just on campus but also in surrounding areas. From maintaining compliance with the Jeanne Clery Act to increasing timely warnings via emergency text messages, Freese works to raise the bar for campus security while being mindful of CBU’s unique culture of warmth and grace.

Freese has hired two assistant directors with years of experience working from

a Christian foundation in large law enforcement agencies. He believes his department members are guardians of campus safety and also guardians of an environment that keeps students safe during campus events, classroom learning, and community life. Safety Services assumes responsibility for teaching CBU members to look out for each other, carries out the campus security policy, and distributes the Annual Security Report to new students and employees.

Freese’s ability to lead others in highdemand situations, combined with his passion for student success, has improved partnerships between his department and others at every level across campus. He considers his work at CBU a privilege and a ministry. Freese says his top priority is ensuring students feel safe on campus so they can be successful, graduate from CBU, and go out and reach others for Jesus – a purpose that is faithful to CBU’s mission to be a “University Committed to the Great Commission.”

CBU CREATES COLLINSWORTH SCHOOL OF PERFORMING ARTS

The music and theatre programs at California Baptist University have been joined together to create the Shelby and Ferne Collinsworth School of Performing Arts.

“The change will benefit students by integrating faculty and resources,” said Dr. Joseph Bolin, dean of the Collinsworth School of Performing Arts. The school was formerly known as the Collinsworth School of Music. “The faculty and administration are

PROFESSOR BEGINS A DEAF MINISTRY

DR. W.

DANIEL

(DANNY) BLAIR IS THE DIRECTOR OF CBU’S CENTER FOR DEAF STUDIES AND ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR OF DEAF STUDIES. DANNY HAS BEEN TEACHING AT CBU FOR 16 YEARS AND IS ALSO AN ORDAINED BAPTIST MINISTER.

As a Pastor, Blair discovered that 99% of the world’s deaf population (about 78 million individuals) are unchurched and largely un-evangelized due to the language barrier. Upon learning that, Danny felt called to address the situation, he began a deaf ministry, studied deaf culture, learned American Sign Language (ASL), and returned to school to become a teacher.

Blair points out that the top three languages in California are English, Spanish, and ASL. The California School for the Deaf is approximately three miles from the university, and an estimated 50,000 Deaf individuals reside in Riverside County, making CBU’s Deaf Studies programs particularly pertinent to our region. Qualified interpreters are costly and scarce, making knowledge of ASL especially beneficial for nurses, first responders, and counselors. Blair says anyone who loves people and has a soft

confident that we can serve our theatre and music students better by combining faculty, resources, vision, and cultures,” Bolin said.

“The coming academic year will bring minimal changes to the programs as faculty and administrators focus on developing a strategy as the school moves forward,” he said.

“This is a merger of two significant CBU communities into something new and unprecedented in the university’s history, a unified school of performing artists

spot for marginalized populations is a good fit for CBU’s Deaf Studies program.

To highlight the vulnerability of deaf immigrants, Blair has produced part one of a four-part film documentary series, Breaking the Silence—A Story of Deaf Refugees. The film presents the gospel as it portrays the plight of deaf immigrants who have fled their native countries to southern California—especially Riverside— seeking escape and protection from persecution and abuse. True to CBU’s

mission to be a “University committed to the Great Commission,” this documentary aims to extend God’s love, educate, motivate, and mobilize the church to make Deaf outreach a priority.

When asked what he would tell someone thinking about attending CBU, Blair said, “If you just want a degree, you can go to any university. But, if you want an experience that includes lifelong friends, premier academics, and spiritual impact, come to CBU.”

committed to applying its full power toward cultivating the next generation of actors, musicians, educators, producers, technicians and worship facilitators,” Bolin said.

“An immediate perk is that performance schedules can be adjusted so students can participate in both a theatre production and a musical ensemble,” said Lee Lyons, director of the theatre program.

“Our mission moving forward is to inspire students to the highest standards of

craft and character, preparing them to impact the world through careers in the performing arts,” Bolin said.

Dr. Charles Sands, provost and vice president for Academic Affairs, said CBU is thrilled to be joining these performing arts programs.

“We know that both of these areas have a rich history, and I am excited about the future collaboration as we continually create conditions for success for our students,” Sands said.

LANCER ATHLETICS

With a win over Vanguard, the Lancer STUNT team closed out their regular season with a perfect 16-0 mark and extended their winning streak to 31-straight wins since the program’s inception in 2020.

LANCER STUNT TEAM ENDS HISTORIC SEASON WITH SECOND STRAIGHT NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP

California Baptist University’s STUNT team made history as the Lancers captured their second straight championship at the DI/DII STUNT National Championship with a 20-5 victory over Oklahoma Baptist.

The Lancers end their historic 2022 campaign with a perfect 19-0 record and will enter the 2023 season with a program-best 34 straight wins. The 19 wins for the Lancers is a new program record for most victories in a single season after setting the record in the 2021 season with 15.

California Baptist entered the DI/ DII National Championship as the No. 1 seed for the second straight season and earned a bye in the first round. The Lancers’ route to the championship game came by victory over Maryville in a 21-1 win and a 19-2 victory over Oklahoma Baptist in the semifinal game.

It marked the sixth time the Lancers have faced the Bison in the all-time series, the win extended the streak to 6-0 over OBU for the Lancers.

CBU MEN’S CROSS COUNTRY WINS BACK-TO-BACK WAC CHAMPIONSHIPS WITH PERFECT SCORE

California Baptist University cross country ended its 2021-22 season with a historic performance at the Western Athletic Conference Championships.

The Lancer men won their secondstraight WAC team title with a perfect 15-point score and were led by Florian Le Pallec. CBU’s women secured a runner-up finish. CBU hosted the WAC Meet for the first time at the UC Riverside Agricultural Operations Course.

Thirteen Lancers (eight men, five women) earned All-WAC honors with top-20 finishes. Eight of them (five men, three women) were allconference first teamers by virtue of their top-10 marks.

CBU’s men enjoyed a 27-point cushion in its win, as Utah Valley took second (42) and Grand Canyon came in third (110). The Wolverines won the women’s crown with 34 points to just hold off the Lancers (41), while Abilene Christian rounded out the top three teams (62).

ROWLAND NAMED TO PRESTIGIOUS CSCAA 100 GREATEST COACHES LIST

California Baptist University head swim and dive coach Rick Rowland was recently included on the list of the 100 Greatest College Swimming and Diving Coaches of the past 100 years by the College Swimming & Diving Coaches Association of America.

The 100 honorees from the CSCAA are tied together by a record of exceptional success vis-à-vis their peers. Collectively, these coaches account for 346 NCAA and NAIA team titles.

Rowland is the one and only head coach in program history after he started the Lancer swim and water polo programs in 1999-2000. Both Rowland’s men’s and women’s swim and dive teams have combined for nine NAIA National Championships and seven conference titles (all in the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference).

Rowland has secured a number of Coach of the Year honors in his career, most recently being named the CSCAA National Invitational Championship Men’s Coach of the Meet in 2018-19. He earned four more on the national level in the NAIA (2001, 2006, 2008, 2011) and five in the RMAC (2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018).

ARMSTRONG NAMED WAC FRESHMAN OF THE YEAR

California Baptist University’s Taran Armstrong was named the WAC Freshman of the Year for 2021-22.

It marks the first WAC Freshman of the Year award for the men’s basketball program and is the third top honor the Lancers have garnered since joining the WAC.

Armstrong is a 6-foot-5 point guard from Burnie, Australia.

He averaged 10.5 points, 6.5 assists and 5.5 rebounds per game this season.

Lancer Cheer and Dance teams claim three National Championships between them at NCA/NDA College Nationals. Both advanced cheer and dance teams won with zero deduction performances, while intermediate cheer also won their first-ever championship.

CBU DEDICATES NEW SOCCER STADIUM

WHEN SOCCER SEASON STARTED IN THE FALL OF 2022, THE TEAMS AT CALIFORNIA BAPTIST UNIVERSITY TOOK TO A NEW FIELD.

The $3.9 million CBU Soccer Stadium includes a new game field, bleachers that can seat 520 people with space for overflow crowds, and a covered, open-air press box. The field also features 90-foot-tall stadium lighting for night games.

On a very warm evening in September 2022, more than 900 fans watched the women’s team play University of California, Riverside. The teams battled to a 3-3 draw. The stadium was dedicated with a ribbon cutting during halftime.

“As I look around here tonight, I feel optimism about the opportunity in front of us to realize a new vision, a vision for building a nationally recognized brand for NCAA men’s and women’s soccer,” Coe Michaelson, head men’s soccer coach, said during the program. “We now have a home that our student athletes can be proud of, a place where they can build a legacy at the highest level of intercollegiate athletics.”

The new facility features a field with hybrid Bermuda grass, which sits on top of eight inches of sand and an underground drainage system. The former soccer field is now used for practice and is surrounded by a two-lane track.

“What a great space for our studentathletes to show their exceptional skills,” said Paul Eldridge, vice president for University Advancement, during halftime. He also thanked the Lancer Athletics Association donors and gave a prayer of dedication.

“May there be fierce competition here over many, many years. May our student athletes excel, and may they always play to the very best of their ability and to Your glory in this stadium,” Eldridge prayed.

Adding to the excitement of a new field, the teams are eligible for postseason play now that the transition to full NCAA Division I membership has been completed. The Lancers hosted the 2022 Western Athletic Conference Men’s Soccer Tournament at the CBU Soccer Stadium this fall.

“With the successful transition to Division 1, the completion of the beautiful multi-million dollar soccer facility, and the opportunity to build one of the most competitive home field advantage atmospheres in Southern California, it is a very exciting time to be here at CBU,” said Tyler Mariucci, director of Athletics. “The combination of this new facility and our growing fan base and attendance is a game changer, and I believe one that can catapult us to the NCAA tournaments to compete against the best of the best in the nation.”

Players are excited to have the opportunity to play on the field.

“It feels like a long time coming getting to play on that field,” said Brian Gonzalez, a graduate midfielder. “I’m very excited that we have a top-tier facility on campus where our soccer program can do something special this year and for years to come.”

“It’s really exciting and a huge honor to be on the inaugural team to play on this field,” said McKenna Ray, a junior midfielder. “We are all very committed to bringing a WAC Championship to CBU and to plaster some banners on our new stadium!”

UPCOMING CAPITAL PROJECTS

BASEBALL AND SOFTBALL COMPLEX

CBU’s baseball and softball programs will move into a new 14,200 square foot clubhouse, a move tentatively scheduled for Summer 2024.

The facility will be strategically located between both Totman and Funk Stadiums and feature amenities such as locker rooms, a sports medicine area, a physical therapy space, offices for the coaching staffs and a conference room. Gameday concessions will be upgraded to help enhance the fan experience with improved food and beverage options for baseball, softball and soccer home games.

The facility will also feature balconies overlooking both fields, providing a unique perspective with great views.

COMMERCIAL MUSIC BUILDING

The new Commercial Music Program will soon have a new home. The building, projected to be completed by Summer 2024, will be approximately 15,000 square feet and will meet all the programming needs for 300 commercial music students including:

• A flagship studio: a multi-use facility used for recording, production, and rehearsals

• Two (2) control room teaching spaces

• Student Production Studios

• Rehearsal Space

• A Foley Room: A facility that reproduces everyday sound effects in a quiet, soundisolated space.

• Dub Space: A studio where “sounds” are synced to film, TV, and gaming.

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

Monique Garcia, ’19, didn’t realize when she started her military career as a teenager that her path would lead her to Mars one day.

Monique joined the Air National Guard in 2008 and started Basic Military Training (BMT) on her 19th birthday. It is here that she met Hal Byers ’00, a CBU alumni. Hal was the 163rd Communications Flight Officer in Charge (OIC); he was later commissioned as an officer after completing his degree from CBU. He became a great mentor to Monique and guided her personally and professionally. His deep faith in her made Monique feel she could accomplish anything. Because of his encouragement, she pursued college courses. As a result, she completed her Bachelor’s degree in 2013 from another university. Monique stayed on as an active member of the California Air National Guard until 2018 and enlisted into the Colorado Air National Guard from 2018 to 2020.

Unfortunately, Hal tragically passed away in 2017. It was a very difficult time for Monique as she cherished not only the mentor Hal was to her but the friend he had become. So when Monique decided to continue her education, she looked to California Baptist University. Hal was an alumnus, and Monique knew he would have been proud to see her pursue her Master of Science in Kinesiology at CBU. She knew that because this school meant something to her personally, her education in the program would be more fulfilling and bring more joy to her life. Monique

wasn’t clear on her goals after completing the program, but deep down, she knew this was where she was meant to be. And her faith took her farther than she ever could have imagined.

During her studies at CBU, Monique immersed herself in learning the physiological and psychological effects on humans during long spaceflight. She was fascinated with human spaceflight and realized that she needed to be involved in research with the space industry. She learned about NASA’s Human Exploration Research Analog (HERA) program and applied to be a crew member in 2020. HERA uses an analog simulated mission to Mars to better understand the effects of long-duration human spaceflight. After an extensive application process, psychological evaluations and modified flight physicals, Monique was accepted to the mission and participated in HERA in October 2021. She spent 45 days with three other crew members, as brilliant and passionate about human space exploration as she is, in a simulation of a mission to Mars.

Currently, Monique works for The MIT Research and Engineering Corporation (MITRE Corp.) as a human factors engineer. The organization is a federally funded research and development center. It works with many government agencies on solving problems for a safer world. Her primary focus is on developing a user interface for a telescope sensor that will be utilized for NASA’s Deep Space Network. Monique feels she is truly living her purpose and finds great satisfaction in making meaningful contributions to projects that will help further space exploration and assist in developing research in the long-duration human spaceflight regarding human factors and behavioral performance. Her experience with NASA HERA gave her a fresh perspective and will aid in furthering her research for future missions.

The COVID-19 pandemic made it difficult for her family since her husband was also serving in the Air National Guard. At the same time, they both also worked civilian jobs. Childcare became problematic. With over 12 years of service in the Air National Guard, Monique decided to hang up her uniform in 2020. However, the blessing of the pandemic was that it helped accelerate Monique’s path into space research and development.

Monique lives in Colorado with her husband, Trevor and son, Jameson. She credits her husband for his encouragement and support while she chased her dreams, and she hopes that she has set an example for her son to follow his passions and purpose in life.

MONIQUE GARCIA, Class of 2019

UPCOMING

OCTOBER 28 Midnight Madness

NOVEMBER 11-12 Parent and Family Weekend featuring the 30th Annual Fortuna Bowl

NOVEMBER 29 CBU Giving Tuesday Christmas Tree Lighting

DECEMBER 3-4 Gloria! A CBU Christmas Concert

DECEMBER 14-15 Commencement

FEBRUARY 10-11 Homecoming Feb. 10 | Celebration Dinner Feb. 11 | Reunions

MARCH 27-31 CBU Spring Giving Event

APRIL 3 Lancer Golf Classic

APRIL 11 Grandparents Day

APRIL 24-26 Commencement

Victor Becerra, ’22 Program Engineer Meta

Jamall Bradshaw, ’20 Youth Advocate Family Assistance Program

Natalie Garvin, ’22 Associate Quality Engineer Abbott

Kimberly Matute, ’22 Speech-Language Pathologist Assistant SenseAbilities Therapy Group

Robert Moseley, ’22 Software Engineering Intern Microsoft

Valeria Villaseñor, ’22 Project Engineer Whiting Turner

GIFTS TO CBU TOP TWENTY-THREE MILLION

UNIVERSITY ADVANCEMENT IS DELIGHTED TO ANNOUNCE THAT FY22 WAS A HISTORIC YEAR FOR CHARITABLE GIVING AT CALIFORNIA BAPTIST UNIVERSITY.

Faithful Lancer supporters committed nearly $23.8 million to further CBU’s

mission—eclipsing the University’s previous giving record in FY14 ($14.2 million) by over $9.6 million.

After a successful launch of the CBU $40 Million Endowment Challenge, CBU finished the year with over 65% of the total goal met with new gifts and pledge commitments—well on the way to reaching our goal.

COUPLE DONATES

“I believe this endowment reflects the legacy of who Wayne and Bertie Paul are and what they have committed their lives to in serving Christ and all of those that He came to save,” said Curt Jarboe, director of gift planning and development in University Advancement.

The remarkable giving result was led by several transformational gifts, including the generosity of one family who gave $5.5 million (one of the most significant endowment gifts in CBU history). When matched as part of our $40 Million Endowment Challenge, this gift created a $19 million Endowment fund that will serve generations of CBU students. CBU also received the largest estate gift in university history in the amount of $6.2 million, and an anonymous donor committed over $1 million to Lancer Athletics.

We are grateful to our alumni, parents, staff, faculty, friends, and volunteers whose support helps sustain our mission. EVERY contribution, no matter the size, makes a difference. Whether an annual, recurring, or legacy gift, this support ensures that the next generation of CBU students will live their purpose, becoming individuals whose skills and integrity glorify God and set them apart from the world.

We celebrate this faith in CBU, the continued prayers, and the generosity. We remain grateful for the Lord’s blessings as we close one fiscal year and begin anew.

major students study in the School of Christian Ministries.

Wayne and Bertie Paul, longtime supporters of California Baptist University, have given $250,000 to the School of Christian Ministries for a double major endowed scholarship. Their donation was matched by an anonymous donor. In turn, both gifts were matched by institutional funds from the CBU endowment match program, making The Wayne and Bertie Paul Double Major Endowed Scholarship total $1 million.

After careers in education and respiratory therapy, the Pauls went overseas and served more than 20 years, the latter years seeking to reach an unreached people group.

Recipients of this scholarship must have one of their majors in the School of Christian Ministries. Currently 90 double

Dr. Ronald L. Ellis, president of CBU, told how the Pauls started giving $1 a month to CBU—then California Baptist College— in the 1960s when Wayne’s brother was a student. They have been supporting CBU ever since, Ellis said.

“We’re grateful to the Pauls. I want to say personally thank you, Wayne and Bertie, for what you’re doing and what you have done and what this gift will continue to do until Christ returns,” Ellis said. “The Wayne and Bertie Paul endowment will surely have significant and long-term gospel impact at CBU and throughout the world.”

PARENTS GET INVOLVED AND GIVE BACK

CBU PARENTS, DRS. JENNIFER AND MICHAEL TOTARO ATTENDED AND GRADUATED FROM LOYOLA UNIVERSITY CHICAGO STRITCH SCHOOL OF MEDICINE AND ARE CURRENTLY FAMILY PRACTICE PHYSICIANS.

The couple’s daughter Callie graduated from CBU earlier this year with a double major in Environmental Sciences and Global Sustainability. Her younger sister, Emma, is a Creative Writing major, and because of interest spurred by her Survey of New Testament Professor Andres Vera, she is now minoring in Christian Studies. Emma said she “couldn’t wait to study the Bible more” after her New Testament class, and she credits her teacher.

After visiting many Christian universities, Callie learned about CBU just in time to attend a Preview Day. Jennifer recalls the visit saying, “CBU had a welcoming feeling” that was different from other campuses—it was “an oasis in the middle of Southern California.” After a big list of pros and cons and a visit with Emily, a CBU recruiter who went above and beyond to answer questions, Callie enrolled at CBU, much to her mother’s delight.

Emma also had the wonderful opportunity of meeting and speaking with Emily.

After making an extensive list of pros and cons of many schools, she also was able to make her decision during her preview day visit. Michael and Jennifer couldn’t have been more delighted to have both girls attending this wonderful school together.

Michael and Jennifer joined CBU’s Parent Leadership Circle (PLC) to stay connected to the university and other parents. They discovered that the PLC is a “wonderful way to get involved from afar and give back.” The couple finds the Parent Prayer Group tremendously helpful and supportive, even with virtual participation. Jennifer also lends her expertise as a volunteer for the Biological Sciences Chair’s Excellence Council.

The Totaros appreciate how faculty interweave faith into all subject matters, including science—which often seems at odds with a Christian worldview. After receiving student thank you notes for two

funded scholarship gifts, they were happy to see their contributions made a real impact. Michael would encourage people not to be held back by a small gift, saying that “small but recurring gifts can evolve into something substantial.”

Michael and Jennifer would tell those thinking about attending or giving to CBU that it’s difficult to appreciate the depth of what’s happening at the university regarding mission and outreach. They say, “CBU makes the world better by keeping Jesus’ mission at heart. Oh, and if you are a CBU parent, join the PLC!”

WHAT IS THE PARENT LEADERSHIP CIRCLE?

Members of the Parent Leadership Circle (PLC) play an instrumental role in community life at CBU and greatly enhance the university’s success. The PLC is a dedicated group of families who are shaping the present and future of CBU.

The PLC exists to enrich the spiritual and academic environment at CBU through prayer, service, special events and financial support. Members of the PLC join together with CBU to enhance our students’ experience and expand the resources available to them on campus. PLC members commit to pray for CBU and give a minimum of $2,500 per year to CBU on an annual basis. They also receive exclusive invitations to special events throughout the year.

To become a member of the Parent Leadership Circle, or for more information, please contact Kim Cunningham at kcunningham@calbaptist.edu or 951.343.4227.

THE CENTER FOR EXCELLENCE IN THE DR. ROBERT K. JABS SCHOOL OF BUSINESS AT CALIFORNIA BAPTIST UNIVERSITY OPENED IN THE FALL OF 2021.

The center is aimed at helping small and medium-sized business owners in the community. It offers various services to those business owners, including

one-on-one coaching with a faculty member with entrepreneur experience.

The center is an official Certiport testing center where employees and employers can obtain certificates in a variety of technologies. It also will hold seminars in conjunction with CBU’s Dr. Paul and Annie Kienel Leadership Institute.

“Some years ago, the brainchild of the faculty of the Jabs School was to engage with our community directly,” said Dr. Tim

Gramling, dean of the Dr. Robert K. Jabs School of Business. “We are excited by the presence of this Center for Business Excellence, which will provide seminars and training and certifications to make a difference in the lives of small to medium sized business owners, leaders and staff.”

Dr. Marina Girju, associate dean for undergraduate programs, said the Center for Business Excellence is the only university sponsored and Certiport authorized center in the Inland Empire area.

“We are looking forward to working with individuals who want to upgrade their skills or simply obtain a certificate to clearly, unequivocally demonstrate the skills they have,” Girju said. “As you see, my sleeves are all up. We are so ready to start the work here.”

Jim Perry, Riverside city council member in Ward 6, said he was glad to see CBU continue to expand.

“This is an opportunity to form our business leaders, to get our business leaders out there with even more expertise, and to make a difference not only in this city but in this region and hopefully in this state,” Perry said.

NCAA BOARD APPROVES CBU’S DIVISION I ACTIVE MEMBERSHIP STATUS

California Baptist University has been granted active status as a Division I institution effective for the 2022-23 academic year by the NCAA Division I Board of Directors.

“This is an exciting day for California Baptist University,” said Dr. Ronald L. Ellis, CBU president. “Division I is the pinnacle of intercollegiate athletics and making the transition to full membership represents a significant step forward for CBU. It’s another way we demonstrate our continual pursuit of excellence, and I am convinced that our student-athletes will compete strongly on the national stage.”

With active status, CBU studentathletes now have the opportunity to compete for berths in NCAA Division I championships.

“Years of preparation went into this and I am thankful for all of the hard work by our campus leadership and staff members to make this a reality,” said Tyler Mariucci, director of athletics. “We are ready for this new opportunity of postseason eligibility.”

During the four-year transition process, CBU Athletics teams experienced considerable success including winning 11 conference championships, logging 24 top-three conference finishes and qualifying 14 teams for postseason tournaments involving Division I programs.

CALIFORNIA BAPTIST UNIVERSITY ENROLLMENT HOLDS STABLE FOR FALL 2022

Enrollment at California Baptist University remains steady this year.

At the regular fall meeting of the CBU Board of Trustees, Dr. Ronald L. Ellis, president, announced that Fall 2022 enrollment totaled 11,496 students.

“Fall 2022 enrollment is stable. To see this, even as we continue to navigate the aftereffects of a global pandemic, is encouraging,” Ellis said. “CBU is still zeroing in on the goal of 12,000 by 2025. We are thankful for the students who have chosen CBU to pursue their academic goals.”

CBU’s enrollment has grown even as college enrollment declined nationwide through the pandemic. Total enrollment—undergraduate and graduate students—dropped by 2.7 percent in fall 2021 compared with fall 2020, according to the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center. Private nonprofit four-year undergraduate enrollment decreased by 1.6 percent or 63,200 students during that time. Meanwhile, enrollment at CBU increased by 1.5 percent or 174 students.

Since Ellis arrived as president in November 1994, CBU enrollment has grown from 808 students to 11,496, more than 14 times larger in 28 years.

FIRST COHORT FOR DOCTOR OF SOCIAL WORK PROGRAM GRADUATES

The first cohort to graduate from the Doctor of Social Work (DSW) program walked the stage in August. The 30 students made up the largest graduating doctoral class in CBU history.

During the two-year program, the students designed social innovations to address a specific social problem. Their projects ranged from nonprofit organizations seeking to eliminate homelessness to initiatives that will reduce disparities in healthcare.

“The breadth and depth of these innovations is amazing and will make a significant impact on families, organizations and communities in our region and around the globe,” said Dr. Krystal Hays, program director of the Doctor of Social Work.

The College of Behavioral and Social Sciences is thrilled to celebrate the inaugural graduation of Doctor of Social Work students, said Dr. Jacqueline Gustafson, dean of the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences.

“This applied program is designed to develop leaders as change agents within the field of social work,” Gustafson said. “Those students who are graduating will impact our local, national and global communities in meaningful ways—bettering the lives of children, families and systems.”

A LEGACY FOR MATTHEW

Ray and Penny’s only son, Matthew, tragically died in a single-vehicular accident when he was 19. That night, Ray and Penny claimed Romans 8:28 and began working through their grief and looking for the good they knew God would bring. God gave them a ministry of helping those who were grieving, especially those who were now childless. Penny’s grief work included writing her book; I’ll See You in the Sunrise, A Mother’s Odyssey in Grief.

RAY AND PENNY YOUNG MET ON THE FIRST DAY OF FRESHMAN ORIENTATION AT CALIFORNIA BAPTIST COLLEGE

(CBC became CBU in 1998). As soon as the two arrived on campus in 1962, Penny felt at home, and Ray says the college had a “personal warmth” that he still feels when he’s on campus today. They began dating in their senior year, married two years after graduation, and recently celebrated 54 years of marriage. While at CBC, the couple made lifelong friends among the faculty and students and are still in contact with many.

Once married, Ray became a worship pastor and then a teaching/preaching pastor while Penny taught high school and middle school students—primarily 7th and 8th graders. After a short-term mission trip to Kenya, Ray and Penny felt God’s call to international missions. Two years later, they were appointed missionaries by the International Mission Board and spent the next six years in Spain and Portugal. They now serve as volunteers in their church and community working to give back and bless others as they have been blessed.

Believing firmly in the work of CBU, they felt a named endowment would be an excellent opportunity to honor the memory of Matthew, God’s great gift to them. Subsequently, they established the CBU Matthew Ragan Young Memorial Endowed Scholarship fund and pointed out that the current double matching funds offered at CBU for qualifying endowments can enhance even a modest gift.

Recently Ray and Penny became members of the Palm Drive Legacy Society by establishing a generous estate gift that will support scholarships in perpetuity after they have graduated to heaven. Ray believes CBU alumni will affect the country and culture for years to come, and Penny believes supporting CBU is an investment in Kingdom-building. The Youngs say that creating an estate gift doesn’t take super affluence or great wealth – just a desire to faithfully steward what God has entrusted to each of us by investing in eternity.

THE PALM DRIVE LEGACY SOCIETY

The Palm Drive Legacy Society recognizes alumni and friends who have invested in California Baptist University’s future through a planned gift. Examples of planned gifts include charitable bequests, trusts, annuities, beneficiary designations from life insurance and/or an IRA.

When including CBU in estate plans, please use our legal name and federal tax ID.

Legal Name: California Baptist University | Federal Tax ID Number: 95-1890710 Location: 8432 Magnolia Avenue | Riverside, CA 92504

Estate commitments to CBU leave a lasting legacy that will impact students for years to come!

More and more, CBU alumni and friends are choosing to make an estate gift commitment to CBU. Since 2018, $23,619,141 million in estate gift commitments have been designated to different scholarships, programs, schools and colleges at the university. An estate gift commitment not only helps CBU but it secures a legacy at the university.

WAYS TO GIVE

Give Now Online

Whether you are giving a one-time gift or you would like to enroll in monthly giving, you can do it all in one place with your credit or debit card. It’s quick, easy and best of all it is completely secure.

Visit us online at calbaptist.edu/give to learn more.

Text to Give

Simply text CBUFUND to 41444 and make your gift.

Give by Check

If your preferred method of giving is by check, please make your gift payable to CBU, denoting your designation, and mail it to:

California Baptist University Office of University Advancement 8432 Magnolia Avenue Riverside, CA 92504

New: Cryptocurrency Giving

Cryptocurrency, also known as Virtual Currency or “Crypto,” is a digital asset designed to function as an alternative to sovereign fiat currency (US Dollars, for example) whereby transactions between

two parties are verified through a public, distributed ledger, also known as a blockchain. Visit our website calbaptist. edu/give to find more information and to make a gift of cryptocurrency.

Give

a Gift of Stocks or Bonds

A gift of stocks or bonds is a great way to support CBU. This charitable gift is typically tax-deductible and may avoid capital gains taxes

Give a Gift-In-Kind

You can also help make a difference by donating non-monetary goods that can be used to help advance the mission of CBU.

Gifts-in-Kind range from real estate, equipment and books to intangible personal property like securities, patents and licenses. These gifts are highly valuable and can greatly benefit the university both now and in the future.

Give a Gift of Real Estate

A gift of a property (such as your home, vacation property, vacant land, farmland, or commercial property) can make a great gift. If you own

appreciated real estate, you may avoid paying capital gains tax by donating it to CBU.

Give a Gift of Retirement Assets

A gift of your retirement assets, such as a gift from your IRA, 401(k), 403(b), pension or other tax-deferred plan, is an excellent way to make a gift.

Give a Bequest

The Palm Drive Legacy Society recognizes alumni and friends who have invested in California Baptist University’s future through a planned gift.

Examples of a planned gift include:

• Bequests and trusts

• Annuities

• Charitable IRA rollovers

• Beneficiary designations

Matching Gifts

Over 75,000 companies match their employee contributions to nonprofit organizations. Your company may be one of them! Go to our Matching Gifts page located at calbaptist.edu/matchinggifts to see if your company matches charitable contributions.

If you have any questions about making a gift to CBU, please contact Kim Cunningham, Senior Director of Development, at 951.343.4227 or kcunningham@calbaptist.edu.

California Baptist University 8432 Magnolia Avenue Riverside, CA 92504

A total of 3,356 students were welcomed into the CBU Alumni Association as the Class of 2022.