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2024's Spring Grads, Honouring a Past President, and more!
2024's Spring Grads, Honouring a Past President, and more!
As we mark 75 years of what we now know as Crandall University, I want to assure you that I have served as a President who not only looks ahead, but also has one eye on the past..."
Knowing that our 75th anniversary was approaching, I’ve been reflecting on the beginnings of Crandall University – not the founding of the United Baptist Bible Training School (UBBTS) in 1949 where we often begin the story, but the founding of schools that predate UBBTS.
Joseph Crandall (1770-1858) was the first ordained Baptist minister in New Brunswick. For 58 years he served as the pastor of the Baptist church in Salisbury and from that platform travelled widely and launched new churches across eastern parts of the then-colony.
In addition to an interest in pioneering new churches, “Elder Crandall,” as he was popularly known in his day, also served as the founding chair of the New Brunswick Baptist Education Society. In 1836 the society opened the “New Brunswick Baptist Seminary” in Fredericton, a high school which enrolled 120 students in its inaugural year. Students from all religious backgrounds were welcome and boys and girls studied in the same classroom – two facts that would have made the school stand out among the few high schools that existed in New Brunswick during that era. Though
the education offered was excellent and the staff cared deeply for the students, the school closed in 1872 due to financial stresses.
Ten years later, in 1882, Baptists attempted to overcome the financial challenges inherent in having just a small group of churches operate a school on their own. A “Union Seminary” was opened in Saint John as a joint project of the Reformed and Free Will Baptist groups who later came together in 1905-1906 as the “United Baptist Convention.” Six years after it opened, the high school moved to St. Martins to occupy a beautiful new building. When the facility opened, one reporter called it “the most beautiful school building in the province.” This school closed
in 1895, again challenged by the cost of servicing its debt and covering the annual operating expenses. Though I was not there, I have no doubt that when the founding board of UBBTS met in the years following the conclusion of World War II to discuss opening another high school and Bible institute, those in the room would have known that their dream of education in New Brunswick was an attempt to revive an ambitious vision from the past.
As we mark 75 years of what we now know as Crandall University, I want to assure you that I have served as a President who not only looks ahead, but also has one eye on the past, learning from challenges faced in previous eras. Our Board and leadership team has worked hard to secure our University’s future by increasing revenue and seeking to eliminate all debt and all due maintenance, so that the University could turn its attention to building its endowment. I invite you to join many other supporters who have spoken with our Advancement department to learn how gifts given now or through estate planning can contribute to the University’s endowment. These strategic gifts can strengthen and secure Crandall University’s mission for generations of students to come.
Jeff Stubbert, Director of Counselling at Touchstone Counselling Group
See this year's 2024 Spring Graduates.
Frannie Branswell ('20), Marketing & Communications Associate
Darrell Nevers ('08), Marketing & Communications Manager
Cover Photo: Master of Education Grads
Convocation photography by Dale Preston.
Changes of address should be sent to:
Alumni Relations
Crandall University
Box 6004, Moncton, NB E1C 9L7
Tel: +1 (506) 858-8970 Ext. 105 | 1-888-968-6228
Email: alumni@crandallu.ca
The Growing Edge is the magazine of Crandall University. Its purpose is to inform alumni, donors, and friends about the University and to keep them in touch with the life of Crandall, as well as its family and friends.
Alumni letters, unsolicited manuscripts, art, and photos are welcome for possible inclusion. Items for "Alumni News" should be identified by graduation class year.
© 2024 Crandall University. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited.
Printer: Advocate Printing
Publication Number: 40006990
In September 1957, I arrived at the “Bible School” as Bobby Wilson, having turned 14 in July, to begin grade 10. Thirty-four years later, I left as “Dr. Bob,” Dean and Vice President for Academic Affairs. I was privileged to study under or serve with the first seven principals/presidents of the University. “Daddy Brinton,” founding Principal, told of how the college motto “That in all things He might have the pre-eminence” and the College hymn, "Crown Him with Many Crowns," were chosen with the input of the first class of 12 in 1949. The motto and hymn have become part of the DNA of generations of both faculty and students.
The opportunities to attend chapel and the Wednesday night prayer meetings, sing in the choir, be part of gospel teams, and go out to preach in churches meant that we learned to minister very early. The much-overworked faculty members led by example and challenged us to grow both intellectually and spiritually.
Living in community allowed us to develop deep friendships. Roommates and those with whom we shared classes, or ministered with in gospel teams became close friends. Some were “very special” like the girl who arrived in January 1959 in grade 11 and in June, Myrna ('61) and I shared a bus seat on the end of term visit to Fundy Park. Five and a half years later, when I taught high school science, Bible, and history at UBBTS, Myrna Secord and I were married in the chapel, and we moved into the tiny apartment in the boy’s dorm. Our long-time teacher and friend, Rev. Les Wilton was master of ceremonies at our wedding.
Those years as a student shaped my life. I did not know where God was leading but He kept opening doors. Faculty members like Earl Morrison challenged me to grow academically. Summer ministries became available to provide funds. In
1961-1962, as I took courses, I taught grade 9 arithmetic and grade 13 algebra. I therefore had a free year of university before transferring into my third year at Gordon College. I was the first to do that. Little did I know that I would become a historian, and much of my scholarly writing would center on what became Crandall University.
In 1965, Myrna and I went to the University of Guelph and I received the first Master of Arts degree as the new University introduced an Arts program. In 1970, as I neared completion of a PhD in British Evangelicalism, Stuart Murray wrote and asked us to consider coming back to Atlantic Baptist College. We agreed and I came as the history professor and Academic Dean. For the next twenty years I chaired faculty (except when Sam Mikolaski was President) and created the College class timetable.
The year 1971 was significant in the life of the College as Ralph Richardson, Gary LeBlanc and I joined the faculty. Chris MacDormand and Mike Kaye were on staff and four of us were Gordon graduates. It became our unofficial ministry model with which President Murray concurred. We built the academic reputation of the College in the seventies by developing strong courses with lots of work and then taught our students how to carry the load. If students were going to fail, we wanted it to be at the College, for our graduates carried our reputation. The Junior College aspect of the program developed well and, by 1982, Sam Mikolaski led the move to have ABC become a degree granting institution.
Christian community was an important part of the educational philosophy of the College. The staff and faculty laboured for long hours to develop a community of Christian Scholars in which the students were an integral part. We rewrote the Student Handbook with input from the students. The disciplinary process
now involved students at each level so that they learned leadership skills and took responsibility for themselves. The faculty and staff spent many hours each week working and interacting with the students to develop the sense of shared community. We also were out in the churches and active in denominational structures. Our spouses were very patient for they often gave up a lot of their personal expectations so that the College could grow.
Weekly faculty meetings were special times as we dreamed, debated (sometimes with heat), laughed, and prayed together. Working on the Administrative team with Ralph Richardson, Gary LeBlanc, Ken MacLeod, and Seth Crowell is one of my fondest memories. We were dependent on the community to make ends meet for we were always one month from bankruptcy. By the late eighties, lack of resources and aging facilities on Salisbury Road meant that some new approach was needed.
That all changed when Mrs. Ruth Colburne made her generous offer of a property on the Gorge Road if the College would use it for a new campus. The possibilities then were limited only by the vision and the practical application of resources. The administrative team recommended to the Board that we should dream big and trust God. While I strongly endorsed the dream, I went to Acadia Divinity College in 1991 to succeed Jerry Zeman and hopefully bring more integration into our denomination’s educational ministries. We were pleased when our children, Jonathan and Rachel attended ABC for their Associate in Arts. In 1996-1998, Rachel and her husband, John Dickinson, were adjunct faculty members and she was editor of The Growing Edge.
The University over its seventy five years has had a major impact on both church and community. Ultimately the success is reflected in the lives of alumni who are Christian workers and educators, and leaders in every part of society"
The University over its seventy five years has had a major impact on both church and community. Ultimately the success is reflected in the lives of alumni who are Christian workers and educators, and leaders in every part of society. Many tell of the friendships formed, and the experiences shared which helped shape generations of Christian young people. For some, it was the place of first-time commitment to Christ and for others it was the place of rededication and the setting of life’s direction. They experienced Christian community where the values were drawn, not from the culture, but from a commitment to Christ.
God’s hand of blessing is on Crandall University. God used it to equip us to take our place in the work of the Kingdom of God. In the past few years, visionary leadership by Bruce Fawcett and the Board, a well-trained faculty and staff, and modern facilities have increased its potential for good. With increasing numbers of students coming from other parts of the world, its role as a change agent in the Kingdom of God is greatly enhanced.
If God has done all this from such small beginnings and imperfect instruments like us, what blessings does He have ahead?
Athletics at Crandall continues to grow with a record number of 121 varsity athletes this year. To put that into perspective, just five years ago, we had 61 athletes, so the growth has been dramatic and has transformed the Department of Athletics.
Academically, we had seven Academic All-Canadians and 22 CCAA National Scholar Award recipients for excellence in academics. Athletically, our Cross Country teams made history again with the men winning their third consecutive league championship and the women winning their second. Both teams went on to represent Crandall at the CCAA National Championships in Bible Hill, NS. Our women’s volleyball team won more games this year than in their initial four years combined, and we launched our new men’s volleyball program, who won their first-ever league match in their sixth game of the season.
This October, we will be hosting the ACAA Men’s & Women’s Soccer Championships as well as our annual boxing event, featuring the West Point Military Academy, Penn State, UConn and other U.S.-based schools in the NCBA.
While we have seen continued growth in the skill and competitiveness of our teams, the work is not done, and we will continue the work of creating a culture of excellence, founded on faith, integrity, respect, and community. On behalf of the staff, coaches, and student-athletes of Crandall University Athletics, I wish to express my sincere thanks and gratitude to the Crandall community for your continued support and commitment to athletics.
Cross Country
MVP Male: Luke Purdy
MVP Female: Clareta Livingstone
Christian Leadership: Charles Taylor
Coach’s Award: Luc Blanchette
Women’s Soccer
MVP: Rebekah Deveau
Christian Leadership: Bilen Mekonnen
Coach’s Award: Julianna Augustine
Men’s Soccer
MVP: Ethan Druart
Christian Leadership: Luke Knowles
Coach’s Award: Christian Sheen
Women’s Basketball
MVP: Kylee Balser
Christian Leadership: Sarah MacCormack
Coach’s Award: Tristan DesRoches
Men’s Basketball
MVP: Marc Hofer
Christian Leadership: Daniel Hawkes
Coach’s Award: Devon Glenn
Women’s Volleyball
MVP: Hailey Legacy
Christian Leadership: Melora Cook
Coach’s Award: Amy Le Blang
Men's Volleyball
MVP: Shane Huggard
Christian Leadership: Sam Tingley
Coach’s Award: Austin Trites
Boxing
Christian Leadership: Sean Finnigan
Boxer of the Year: Sanil Shahi
Unsung Hero Award
Eric Dixon, Game Day Manager
Male Athlete of the Year
Luke Purdy, Cross Country
Female Athlete of the Year
Amy Le Blang, Women's Volleyball
Dr. Seth Crowell Award
Kylee Balser, Women’s Basketball
ACAA Cross Country Runner of the Year
Luke Purdy
ACAA Cross Country Coach of the Year
Brandon LeBlanc
ACAA First Team All-Conference Award
Michaela Allen, Luc Blanchette, Jackson Culberson, Mary Fillmore, Clareta Livingstone, Luke Purdy, Rebekah Deveau, Ethan Druart
ACAA Second Team All-Conference Award
Marc Hofer, Luke Knowles, Hailey Legacy, Simona Romano
CCAA National Scholar Award
Jonathan Albinet, Julianna Augustine, Kylee Balser, Megan Cook, Gabriel Cormier, Ethan Druart, Mary Fillmore, James French, Kassidy Hamilton, Mattea Hansen, Michaela Hansen, Daniel Hawkes, Ellie Hiltz, Luke Knowles, Amy Le Blang, SaraMaude Malenfant, Makayla Martin, Amanda Piltzmaker, Emily Sonier, Andrew Parker Steeves, Charles Taylor, Samuel Tingley
As I reflected on how I wanted to write about my journey with Crandall University, I was amazed at all the intersecting points that have happened over the past 32 years. My time began with Atlantic Baptist College (as it was known at that time) in 1982 when I pursued the two-year Associate of Arts Diploma. From there I transferred to Acadia University to complete my BA (Honours) in Psychology. and then on to Providence Theological Seminary where I graduated with a Master of Arts in Counselling in 1990.
ABC was an amazing two years of my life. I will always look back on it very fondly. I met people, both students and teachers, who I am still friends with today - people who encouraged and challenged me on many levels. The small intimate learning setting allowed for growth and wrestling with many important issues I needed to face in my life. Dr. Ralph Richardson was without a doubt the best teacher I encountered in my entire learning journey, and I will be forever grateful for the impact he had on me. Dr. Bob Wilson (Academic Dean at the time) summed up best my academic journey at Crandall when he stood in chapel to announce the Dean’s list for 1984. He eloquently stated that I had, in my second year, gone from the Dean’s prayer list to the Dean’s honours list.
Playing hockey and softball, singing in the choir (which allowed us to embark on choir tours to various churches in the Atlantic region), and singing with ministry teams, and so many other positive experiences at Crandall, have created memories I will always greatly cherish.
Touchstone began in the fall of 1990. My vision at that time was to create a faith-based counselling service that would combine psychology with biblical principles and applications. I also wanted the service to be accessible to people regardless of their financial situation. As a result, we established Touchstone as a not-for-profit organization with a board of directors from the community and fundraising events to help subsidize those who could not afford our services.
As I mentioned, Touchstone is a faith-based counselling service and as such all our counsellors have a relationship with Christ, and some have had training that incorporates biblical principles. However, though we can implement a faith perspective into therapy, there are no limitations on who we work with, and we are always mindful of the client’s wishes in that regard. Our approach is first and foremost to be Christ in our care for all who seek our help.
Through the years we have witnessed tremendous healing and restoration in the lives of countless individuals, couples, and families, and we have been blessed to be a part of this ministry that God has given to us. I have had the privilege to work with so many gifted and caring counsellors past and present, as well as staff, board members, and numerous others who have supported us in bringing this work to the greater Moncton community and far beyond. Presently we have offices in Moncton, Pugwash, and Sackville, and we work online with clients across Atlantic Canada and beyond.
Every day I have the honour of being given a front row seat to the lives of God's precious creations and to journey with them for a while. That to me is a profound and humbling privilege."
There has been, in a sense, a symbiotic relationship between Touchstone and Crandall University. Several of our counsellors received their undergraduate training at the university. In the past, I partnered with Providence and Crandall to facilitate local practicum group work for Providence master’s students. Presently, one of our counsellors, Kim Alley, is a part-time lecturer at Crandall, providing a number of counselling electives for undergraduates. Crandall’s current counsellor, Sarah Fletcher is a former staff counsellor at Touchstone. While we were sad to see her go, we supported the call she felt to serve the students at Crandall. We also partnered with Crandall during our counsellor Erin Burke’s Yorkville internship to bring her on campus to provide services to students. Over the years both Kim and now-retired counsellor Berys Richardson, have occasionally been guest speakers in various capacities.
Recently, I sat on a panel with other counselling professionals for one of Kim’s classes. Along with other questions, one student asked the question I am often asked by others, which was what motivates me day to day to be a part of this very demanding work. Upon reflection, my response was quite simple. I stated that after 33 years of working with people I have come to recognize that “people are amazing.”
Every day I have the honour of being given a front row seat to the lives of God’s precious creations and to journey with them for a while. That to me is a profound and humbling privilege. The issues have become more complex over the years; the realities facing us as a community are at times overwhelming, but I continue to be optimistic. God is raising up talented and committed people to work in the field of counselling - people who are
bringing hope and healing to those who desperately need it. As I move towards the end of my career, I’m excited to pass the Touchstone torch to a very capable group of counsellors.
In closing, let me bring things full circle regarding my connection to Crandall University. I can’t remember the exact date, but I do recall visiting a young Seth Crowell at the Registrar’s Office with my father in 1982. I wasn’t sure what to do with my future and what courses to take. Seth suggested maybe a focus on psychology …and the rest, as they say, is history!
Photos: Jeff Stubbert ('84) at his daughter's wedding, submitted.Lisa Marie Anderson
Deirdre Kathleen Aubie
Justine Ann Bailey
Vanessa Ann Belliveau
Ashley Agnes Bernard
Krista Anne Cail Bernard
Ashley Lynn Bland
Rachel Connelly
Erin Fidelise Connolly
Tiffany Joy Crealock
Beth Alexis Dunn
Tara Leigh Glencross
Jérémie William Joseph Goguen
Kathryn Marie Henderson
Allison Roberta Jackson
Krista Noelle Johnson
Kaylee Ashley Jones
Sean Curtis Legassie
Robyn Marie Leger
Michelle Anne Patricia
Legere
Douglas Charles MacLean
Alyssa Joy Martin
Krista Ann Metallic
Kimberley Jeanne Mitchell
Amanda Mary Parlee
Lee Christopher Pearce
Christopher Anthony Powers
Virginia van der Heide
Helena Whalen
Srishti
Suman
Motolani Adeniran
Samrina Naz Adil
Tasnova Afrin
Bolaji David Akanbi
Renu Poikayil Alex
Jini Anil
Sima Ansari
Irene Babu
Zuly Mireya Badillo Rivero
Satyanarayana Murthy
Balantrapu
Johnson Ajewole Bamisaye
Manish Bhadwal
Nitish Kumar Bharath
Kumar
Shivashri Bharti
Sailaja Bhavanam
Suchi Jagadish Bhojak
Bhakti Jitendra Bhudiya
Khayrat Adenike Bidmos
Sudipta Biswas
Mitali Yogesh Boghani
Arah Camille Buena
Elisangela Carpenedo De Mattos
Bhavesh Chandel
Virendrasingh Karsanbhai Chauhan
Sushanth Reddy Chinnakka
Jaderson Jose Cordeiro
Nayan Jitendrakumar Dabhi
Sasheka Shameka
Josephine Davis
nichoal Joshua Demello
Nileshkumar Shambhubhai
Dhameliya
Roshani Manishbhai
Dholariya
Joyceline Akweley Dottey
Joswin Brinson Dsouza
Trieu Khanh Hung Du
Shaileshkumar Ratilal
Dudhat
Hima Edachali Mohanlal
Mojde Eghbalpour
Chukwuemeka Emmanuel Ezeaku
Farshad Faridmehr
Natalia Andrea Florez Contreras
Hourieh Gholami
Dilip Jagdishbhai Gorasiya
Sumit Gosain
Subhasish Goswami
Kamalpreet Singh Grewal
Komal Kirit Gusani
Catalina Gutierrez Castano
Kasra Hamedankhah
Bilal Hanif
Jose Fernando Hidalgo Florindez
Muhammad Arman Hossain
George Onwubiko Ijioma
Motunrayo Ayoola Iluyomade
Diego Jose Injoque Roig
Chidinma Thelma Iwualah
Joy Iyere
Sheethal Merry Jacob
Ankit Jaitly
Jeyasuriyan Jayaraman
Rini John
Neethu Johnson
Karan Pravinkumar Kanani
Abhilash Reddy Kanathala
Harpreet Singh Kanda
Dhyey Arunkumar
Kantharia
Rashi Kapoor
Rohini Kashyap
Arwinder Kaur
Gagandeep Kaur
Manjit Kaur
Manpreet Kaur
Sumandeep Kaur
Muhammad Owais Khan
Ankit Khanna
Surya Khatri
Hiralben Navnitsinh Khengar
Gurpreet Singh Khing
Jawahar Koothupalakkal Suresh
Nidhiben Ashish Kotadia
Lohendira Krishnakumar
Chitra
Sakunthala Melanie Kudaliyanage
Sandeep Kumar
Vinod Kumar
Oluwabunmi Oluwaseun
Kuye
Adebukola Victoria Laraiyetan
Carlos Mario Lopez Montoya
Manika Mahajan
Nina Mahmoodi Kardgar
Latha Makkuni Varayil
Simranjeet Kaur Mann
Monica Alejandra Mantilla Aysanoa
Ricardo Martinez Valencia
Saul Mathew
Alecia Andine McNab
Anatasia Sabrena Mirander
Sanaz Mohammadi
Ibrahim Mohammed
Lorraine Monteiro
Reema Renita Helen Monteiro
Manu Jude Murikkumthara
Jude
Aashika Najumudin
Manpreet Singh Nandra
Ishita Nandy Bose
Naizy Nazar
Jesca Ndonga Ngangombo
Haniyeh Noormoshtaghi
Blessing Nyong-Essien
Obianuju Pauline Obiekezie
Funmilayo Bunmi Odemorin
Omobowale Elizabeth
Odepe
Kazeem Olusegun Ogunnoiki
Nkiru Kanene Okoli
Ogochukwu Frances Okpoko
Temitope Olayiwole
Belinda Bukola Olurinola
Emmanuel Onyehalu
Oluwadamilola Olajumoke
Osude
Nikunja Rajnikant Padsala
Shrikantkumar Prakashbhai Panchal
Harshdeep Singh Pasricha
Naveen Krishna Yadav
Perugu
Thuy Trang Pham
Rosana Pianowski De Moraes
Prince Kishorbhai Radadiya
Neeraja Raghu Menon
Kavitha Kamal Raj
Divya Rajagopalan
Kamini Rastogi
Mohadaseh Riahi
Tasmim Afsa Sadia
Naheemah Omotola Sahid
Amandeep Singh Saini
Nasimah Omotoyosi Salako
Kiran Talwinder Singh
Sandhu
Lavanya Sanil
Visakh Santhosh Thachora
Dibu Dharshan Senthil
Kumar
Farhanahmed Khalilahmed
Shaikh
Tahera Akter Shanti
Aprajita Sharma
Noopur Sharma
Shyam Sharma
Shimna Shetty
Tingting Shi
Snehal Swapnil Shinde
Amrinder Singh
Gagandeep Singh
Gurpreet Singh
Kamaljeet Singh
Navjot Singh
Vaishakha Singh
Vikram Singh
Bavleen Kaur Sital
Athira Sobhanan
Ify Stella Sylve-Akpodiete
Abdullah Al Tahmid
Shaba Tamanna
Ritika Tandan
Lidhiya Thaissery Antony
Anurag Sandipbhai Thakker
Sara Thompson Meave de Palacios
Audrey Gail Thulseepersad
Sharon Pravin Torne
Vishal Tyagi
Farees Unnisa
Parth Ramdevbhai Vadliya
Avnish Babulal Varsani
Sanketkumar Mansukhbhai
Vekariya
Humaben Naimbhai Vhora
Reema Anna Vincent
Niket Narendrabhai Vithani
Suan Annalia Witter
Wenqi Zhu
Master of Organizational Management
Neha
Oluwayemisi Oluwatosin
Adeleke
Theresa Adeniyi
Gbenga Tosin Agboola
Azeezat Olabisi Akinbola
Khaled Yousef Mohammd
Al-Karrain
Francis Amaechi Anijah
Oluwabukola Olamipeju
Ayeni
Omolara Bello
Damian Ryan Gerard Dyke
Christian Ehijie Enaboifo
Uwana Michael Essien
Suchet Ariyak Fatuase
Frank Gahunde
Bridget Ibukun
Abimbola Rafiat Imasogie
Oseghale Emmanuel Inegbenoghu
Ravneet Kaur
Adekunle Ibrahim Kolawole
Korede Mabayomije
Ladejobi
Chibuisi Chinonso Nwosu
Sunday-Sonie Oko
Odey-Jack
Omoniyi Oladiti Ogungbade
Thelma Uzoamaka Okafor
Daniella-Inyang Esien Oku
Taiwo Feyiropo Olatujoye
Abimbola Folusho Oyinlola
Dhananjay Raman Patil
Sheena-Kay Lorraine
Randall
Macaulay Adenomoh Sado
Baljinder Singh Pyara Singh
Saini
Zaynab Adedayo Salami
Anuj Sharma
Sin Cheung Tso
Bachelor of Education
Paige Alexis Ryleigh Adair
Kyle Frank Allen
Liette Catherine Arseneault
Amanda Audit
Allison Nicole Baker
Brittain Douglas Swailes
Bancroft
Ashley Elizabeth Robin
Bernard
Isabelle Blais
Sarah Brayshaw
Megan Alexandria Burgess
Grace Katherine Caissie
Mary Margaret Chaisson
Kathryn Margaret Chase
Olivia Chase
Kathleen Ellen Chisholm
Hannah Cook
Madison Grace Dawson
Jenna Marie Dixon
Holly Celine Donovan
Caleb Jeremiah Dorey
Darien Driscoll
Nicholas James Elliott
Dylan Estabrooks
Mary Clarissa Fillmore
James Thomas French
Kassidy Allison Hamilton
Elizabeth Ashley Hebert
Erika Hickey
Hannah Mae Howard
Ashley Dawn Kenny
Patrick Dawson Kent
Rebecca Lynn Killam
Sawyer Scott Freeman King
Rachel Erin Knowles
Emily H Lawrence
Martina Stacy MacCabe
Kirsten Rae MacDonald
Makayla Lynn Martin
Megan McCluskey
Chelsea McFadden
Anna Olivia McKillop
Paskalle Anik Rose Mclaughlin
Erin Kathryn Melanson
Katelyn Brianna Melanson
Chantal Alyson Mourant
Alexandra Angelika Mourdoukoutas
Azeem Munawar
Alexander Murphy
Taylor Maureen Elizabeth O'Neill
Laura Louise O'Rourke
Josie Perry
Nathan Andrew Phillips
Amanda Melanie Piltzmaker
Daniel Charles Plimmer
Samantha Jo Reeder
Krysta Anne Ripley
Dylan Alexander Roach
Stephanie Sabean
Emily Margaret Savoie
Nicholas Paul Smart
Ashley Snyder
Kirsten Vivian Claira
Snyder
Makayla Kathryn Somers
Emily Dawn Elaine Sonier
Taylor Ann-Marie Spark
Hudson Clarke Trenholm
Cassidie Leigh Van Wart
Amber Helen Mae Walls
Bethany Belle Warwick
Ashley Taylor Wheaton
Roberta Nicole Wood
Perry Crawford
Gaston Doucet
Joell Gary Michael Gallant
Luc Maurice Gaudet
Ashley Ruth Chute
Ryan Patrick Power
Jérémy Luc Albert
Alysha Mae Armitage
Monica Lyn Valentina
Babineau Pratt
Parker Barriault
Luke Alexander Butler
Kathryn Margaret Chase
Maya Bailley Clapperton
Janelle Delvina Cormier
Deon Dianna Crosdale
Sydney Amber Curry
Alexia D'astous-MacDonald
Adrian John Davies
Madison Grace Dawson
Jessica DeWitt
Hannah Ferdinand
Lauren Bonita Marie Hasson
Daniel Roy Hawkes
Sarah Ann Henry
Crystal Johnson
Summer Mariam Kadri
Benjamin David Thomas Kennedy
Rebecca Lynn Killam
Sophie Isabelle LeBlanc
Sarah Legere
Eli Russell Lutes
Emma Lauren Lutes
Chloe Dora Anne MacDonald
Sara-Maude Malenfant
Matthew Christopher McGuire
Catheryn Ruth Elizabeth Milbury
Samuel Morrissey
Joshua Kerry Northcotte
Brogan Jon Boyd Ohlhauser
Devika Ghanshyambhai Patel
Matthew Albert Bowman Pitman
Grace Michaela Pitre
Benjamin Thomas Pugsley
Samantha Germaine Raworth
Miguel Alejandro Meneses Rinaldi
Jeneal Renee Risk
Nicholas Schmidt
Abbigail Louise Skaling
Charles James Taylor
Justine Annette Taylor
Samuel Joel Tingley
Bachelor of Business Administration
Laine Angela Bennett
Evan Russell Cook
Sacha David Gauthier
Luke Huxter Knowles
Emma Caterina Spataro
Olivia Rosa Spataro
Bethany Jill Walker
Trent Stanley Webb
Simeon Colin Peter Willis
Benjamin David Wilson
Bachelor of Science
Mikayla Dawn Clark
Grace Ellisa Anna Comeau
Gabriel Belliveau Cormier
Micah Joseph Crummey
Sarah Janelle MacCormack
Abby Joan Murphy
Toai Cong Nguyen
Duncan Shaw Schotanus
Christian Matthew Sheen
Abigail Belen Slipp
Luke Avon Allen Sullivan
Matthew Michael Palmer
Claystone Certificate
Zoe-Lyn Sippley
Caiden Hillier
Mason Malcolm
Aidan Plato
Certificate in Teaching English as a Foreign Language
Summer Mariam Kadri
Abbigail Louise Skaling
Youth Leadership Certificate
Benjamin David Wilson
Oxford Study Programme
Certificate
Matthew Almas
Abigail Bergel
Joel Carson
Maria Corkery
Elizabeth Hayes
Alley MacDonald
Micayla Reynolds
Nikola Vanderhayden
Undergraduate students with a Grade Point Average of 3.7 or higher
Elise Armes
Cole Armstrong
Brooke Ayles
Monica Babineau Pratt
Kayelyn Badger
Robyn Baglole
Chad Bennett
Tyler Boucher-Cookson
Evan Briggs
Emily Britton
Jaydan Brown
Whitney Cail
Holly Carmichael
Evan Carr
Ryan Carson
Robin Christie
Ashley Chute
Maya Clapperton
Chelsea Cliff
Isaac Cogswell
Gabriel Cormier
Deon Dianna Crosdale
Sydney Curry
Jilana Daley
Adrian Davies
Grace Dorey
Ethan Druart
Drew Duffy
Amy Dykeman
Ethan English
Hannah Ferdinand
Elisabeth Ford
Camarah Foster
Laura Good
Abigail Grant
Maggie Grant
Vanessa Greenwood
Aiden Hamilton
Emily Hamilton
Jonah Hanley
Lauren Hasson
Elizabeth Hayes
Sarah Henry
Ellie Hiltz
Suava Hoffman
Alia Hogeveen
Summer Kadri
John Keeler
Michelle Keirstead
Benjamin Kennedy
Hailey King
Abeni Reya Laura Knowles
Luke Knowles
Jasmine Lamothe
Amy Le Blang
Caleb LeBlanc
Sophie LeBlanc
Jacinda LeFebvre
Gabriel Legere
Zoee Losier
Eli Lutes
Emma Lutes
Alley MacDonald
Chloe MacDonald
Colby MacDonald
Daniel MacDonald
Stephanie MacDonald
Lydia Machon
Sarah MacKay
Sara-Maude Malenfant
Eden Maltby
Jordan Mantler
Ana Marques
Hannah Matheson
Kaygie-Ann Matthew
Cameron McCaie
Malcolm Mealey
Catheryn Milbury
Makayla Miles
Gideon Mitton
Samuel Morrissey
Emma Muir
Candace Murray-Schriver
Eliana Nasri-Ghajari
Rebecca Northcotte
Brogan Ohlhauser
Malcolm Ohlhauser
Balakrishnan Pavithiran
Kayla Phillips
Aidan Plato
Ryan Power
David Price
Micayla Reynolds
Colten Roberts
Brooke Robertson
Rebecca Robinson
William Ross
Paige Scott
Zoe-Lyn Sippley
Abbigail Skaling
Nathan Smith
Benjamin Snowdon
Emma Spataro
Olivia Spataro
Leandra Stackhouse
Rylee Stanford
Giorgos Stavrou
Charles Taylor
Samuel Tingley
Renz Rhemus Vitto
Sydney Walker
Zoe Ward
Emma Weir
Benjamin Wilson
Morrison Education Distinction Award
Mary Margaret Chaisson [01]
Darien Driscoll
James Thomas French
Ashley Dawn Kenny [02]
Stephanie Sabean [03]
Gord and Marlene (Steeves) Read Award for Inspirational Teaching
Isabelle Blais [04]
Laura Louise O’Rourke [05]
Highest Overall Standing Within the Class of 2024
Ryan Patrick Power [06]
Crandall University Honours Society
Ryan Patrick Power [07]
2024 Faculty of Business Administration Gold Medal
Luke Huxter Knowles [08]
Trevor Nason Memorial Science Award
Luke Avon Allen Sullivan [09]
Dr. Dannie Brown Graduate Studies Award in Management
Omobowale Elizabeth Odepe [10]
Dr. Roger Russell Organizational Management
Honours Society Award
Justine Annette Taylor [11] 03 02 01 05
08 10 11 04 09
Born in the vibrant city of Quchan, Iran, my journey began amidst the bustling streets and rich culture of Tehran, a metropolis brimming with over 9 million souls. For years, Tehran was not just a city but a canvas of ambition and opportunity, shaping my aspirations and dreams. However, destiny had its own plans, guiding me towards a new horizon – Canada.
The decision to pursue my master’s degree in this vast and diverse land was a pivotal moment in my life.
Conversations with Dr. Dannie Brown (Dr. B) illuminated the path ahead, revealing Crandall University as the gateway to my future in Canada. With its affordable tuition and a management program perfectly attuned to my ambitions, Crandall emerged as the beacon guiding my academic journey. Landing in Moncton in January 2019 and graduating in December 2019 marked the culmination of a significant chapter in my life.
Central to my Crandall experience was the sense of community, where deep connections with professors and peers were forged. Dr. B and Dr. Seth Crowell emerged as transformative figures, offering invaluable mentorship that continues to shape my path. Dr. B transcended the role of a professor, becoming a confidant and friend, while Dr. Crowell’s guidance remains an anchor in my professional endeavors. From them, I learned the dedication to the community that has become a cornerstone of my life.
Professor Don Moore had a significant
impact on updating my financial management knowledge to suit the Canadian environment. His insights and expertise were invaluable in preparing me for the financial landscape of Canada, adding depth to my skill set. While the internship wasn't mandatory, the practical nature of Crandall's courses primed me for the dynamic world of Canadian business. Beyond textbooks and lectures, Crandall instilled in me a resilience and adaptability crucial for navigating real-world challenges.
Crandall University's commitment to supporting international students like myself is truly commendable. From the moment of enrollment, dedicated staff members provided assistance with accommodation, and cultural integration. The Writing and Student Success Services served as a valuable resource, offering guidance on academic matters and organizing events to foster connections within the international student community.
Post-graduation, I found myself back in my element as an architect and project manager at Architects4. With unwavering support from Architects4, I successfully obtained my architectural license in Canada as well, broadening my professional repertoire. Inspired by Crandall’s ethos, I pursued and attained my PMP certification, a milestone previously hindered by sanctions in Iran. Driven by the principles instilled by Dr. B and Dr. Crowell, I endeavor to make a lasting impact through my designs, transcending the boundaries of my office. Active involvement in community
initiatives, such as the Planning Advisory Committee and the Moncton Heritage Conservation Board, allows me to contribute meaningfully to my newfound home.
January 2024 marked a significant milestone as my wife Shabnam and I were granted Canadian citizenship, a testament to our commitment to our new home and community. Living in Canada, particularly in the vibrant city of Moncton, has been an enriching experience. From its diverse cultural tapestry to its picturesque landscapes, Moncton offers a quality of life that is unmatched. Moreover, Moncton boasts a welcoming environment for newcomers, with ample opportunities for integration and growth. Plenty of organizations in Moncton provide resources and support to facilitate the transition for immigrants, ensuring a smooth adaptation to Canadian life. Employment opportunities in various sectors, coupled with affordable housing and a peaceful environment, make Moncton an ideal destination for those seeking a fresh start.
Throughout this journey, my wife Shabnam has been my unwavering source of support and motivation, embodying the spirit of resilience and companionship. As I reflect on my life’s journey, I am profoundly grateful for the opportunities that Crandall University and Canada have afforded me. Each step has propelled me closer to realizing my aspirations and making a meaningful impact on the world around me.
The decision to pursue my master’s degree in this vast and diverse land was a pivotal moment in my life. Conversations with Dr. Dannie Brown (Dr. B) illuminated the path ahead, revealing Crandall University as the gateway to my future in Canada."
Mari
Kadri '24 Bachelor of Arts in EnglishTHANK YOU
Your generosity eased my financial burden and now I have finished my Bachelor's Degree at Crandall and can go on to help, in some small way, use God's Word to reach an unreached people. Thank you and God bless you!
Hannah Strout '25 Bachelor of Arts in PsychologyI really appreciate you helping me through this journey and in this chapter of my life!
During its 75-year history, Crandall (UBBTS/ABC/ABU) has been blessed by many who have embraced the mission of the University by leaving a legacy gift in their Will. Since 1949, legacy gifts (some smaller, some larger) have arrived at the most critical junctures in our history.
In 2023, legacy giving again made an impact. Nearly $200,000 was gifted to Crandall through estate gifts, which allowed us to:
• Address immediate needs
• Establish scholarships and bursaries to support future Crandall students
• Enhance existing endowment funds
MAn estate gift to Crandall may be one, or a combination, of the following:
• Percentage of your estate
• The residual of your estate
• Specific dollar amount
• Real estate
• Stocks and securities
• Gifts-in-kind (art, rare books, etc.) of value and/or use to the purposes of the University
• Insurance policies and annuities
If you have included the University in your estate plans, we want to thank you and ensure the purpose of your legacy gift is understood.
any Canadians are generous in supporting charities. These gifts enable charities to function in the present; however, few Canadians have considered planned giving. Statistics suggest that only a small percentage of adult Canadians have planned giving clauses in their estate plans. Planned giving is a way to help a charity accomplish its goals in the future.
Recently, we had cause to consider end of life decisions such as institutional health care, providing for our family, power of attorney issues, and supporting charities. Over the years, we had considered establishing a scholarship or bursary at Crandall University but did not do much about it. We were given the name of an organization, Advisors with Purpose (AWP), that offers expertise in estate planning by Crandall.
For more information on including Crandall in your Will, please contact Gilda Ryder, Director of Development and Planned Giving at 506-863-6444 or gilda.ryder@crandallu.ca.
Advisors with Purpose was helpful. We had several meetings with a knowledgeable person about our existing wills, our future needs, and the tax implications of planned giving. The conversation was instructive, detailed, empathic, and helpful. AWP provided us with several scenarios about how money would be distributed depending on the items in the will and demonstrated how planned giving had implications for tax savings. There was no pressure, and we were left to make our decisions.
We shared these points with our lawyer with the view of making changes to our current wills. In a follow-up interview with AWP, we related that all their suggestions were met to our satisfaction. Overall, we were pleased with the service provided and would encourage others who are considering estate planning or revisions to their will to contact AWP at plan@advisorswithpurpose.ca.
Dr. Gary Leblanc was appointed Professor Emeritus February 22, 2013. He started teaching at Atlantic Baptist College in 1972 and was a full time professor until 2003. He then taught part time for another decade. During Gary’s career, he was primarily Professor of Sociology, but also for some years, served as Dean of Campus Life, a member of the President's Council, a member of the Committee which established the new campus on Gorge Road, and was the faculty representative on the Board of Governors. Today he is an elder at the Cherryfield Baptist Church, which helps to keep him busy. He also meets each week with friends for coffee and prayer and enjoys hosting children and grandchildren.
Dr. Stephen Dempster was named Professor Emeritus in 2021. He taught for 37 years in the Religious Studies department. In the early days he taught four courses each semester, led student ministry teams once a month, coached sports teams, and was involved in intramural sports. Presently, he is involved in his church as an elder, attends a weekly prayer group, occasionally preaches, teaches as an adjunct in various schools, edits a commentary series, participates on a steering committee for biblical theology at the Evangelical Theological Society, and continues to write on theological topics. Stephen keeps his mind active in retirement by reading and writing, memorizing Scripture, exercising, and listening to podcasts.
Dr. Douglas Mantz was appointed Professor Emeritus in 2013. 48 years ago, Dr. Douglas Mantz became Atlantic Baptist College’s first English Professor. Over the next almost 40 years he designed and led the university’s English program, founded the world-class Oxford Study program, led the annual fall foliage walk, and as public relations officer designed the university coat of arms. His students may remember that he began classes with a prayer inviting them to “make a leap into the unknown” and indicating why this part of entertaining social history would be worthwhile, in addition to picking up better English skills from best models by osmosis. For local TV, he directed Pilgrim’s Progress, the Musical and the comedy of the Curl, starring student actors and musicians. He published The First 50 Years, an illustrated anecdotal day-to-day history diary of the university—one of his SIX books of humour, most written since he became a professor emeritus.
Dr. Carol Thorne was named Professor Emerita in February 2013. Her connection with the University began in 1962 when she became a student at United Baptist Bible Training School (UBBTS). In 1967, she returned to Moncton after finishing her BA at Gordon College in Wenham, MA and taught French at UBBTS during the final two years of that institution before it became Atlantic Baptist College. After spending 14 years in Cameroon doing linguistic research, translation, and literacy work among the Tikar people, Carol returned home permanently in 1988 and began teaching mainly French, Linguistics, and Cultural Anthropology at Atlantic Baptist College and then at Atlantic Baptist University. Carol taught several courses at Crandall University until she retired in December 2018, meaning that she has taught at all “phases” of the institution.
After retiring, in addition to continuing to be an active member of her home church, Hillside Baptist, she also served two 3-year terms on the Board of Canadian Baptist Ministries.
Working on a variety of projects has helped keep her mind active in this retirement phase of her life. Those projects include creating an online version of the French Placement Test; preparing a trilingual dictionary (Tikar-French-English) so that it could be made into an app that is now on the Google PlayStore; and helping to translate into French CBM’s Vennture curriculum that is being used to train church leaders in East Africa. Carol also continues to organize annual reunions for UBBTS alumni, which is her way of giving back to the institution which has been such a big part of her life over the years.
Dr. Dannie Brown was named Associate Professor Emeritus and Dean Emeritus in November 2023. He taught for 26 years in total and was the head of the Business program from 1982-2003. He was also the Dean of International Academic Programs (IAP), later named "Graduate Studies" from 2018-2022, and officially retired in 2023.
Dannie chooses to serve his Lord and church community by being a regular member of the worship team, leader, and musician at The Drive Baptist Church in Fredericton. He also regularly helps with the weekly food bank at the church.
To keep his mind active during retirement, Dannie continues to serve as an adjunct professor at Crandall University and he and Dr. Hack-Polay have a journal article that is currently in the review process for publication.
Dr. Keith Grant (PhD, University of New Brunswick) was awarded a 2024 Stephen and Ella Steeves Award for excellence in service. He also gave an invited public lecture at the Owens Art Gallery at Mount Allison University on March 26, 2024. The talk, “Do Emotions Have a History?” was based on his recent book, Enthusiasms and Loyalties (McGill-Queen’s University Press).
Dr. Dieu Hack-Polay (PhD, University of Surrey, EdD, University of Lincoln) received the award of Recognised Research Supervisor from UKCGE. Until 2019, the UK did not have this certification which is broadly the Habilitation to Supervise Research in Europe. Since it was introduced in 2019, experienced doctoral supervisors sit the assessment by writing a portfolio. Dr. Hack-Polay sat the assessment in October 2023 and was given excellent feedback.
Dr. Cathlene Hillier (PhD, University of Waterloo) was awarded a 2024 Stephen and Ella Steeves Award for excellence in teaching. She also had four journal articles published with colleagues: "Exploring how learning by "talking and doing" supports flourishing in S.T.E.M. for elementary students"; "Preparing elementary preservice teachers for inquiry-based STEM instruction through a unique initiative"; "Where did they go? Regional patterns in student mobility within Ontario postsecondary education"; "Does geography matter? A regional analysis of post-secondary pathways in Ontario, Canada."
Gui Loth (MBA, ESAMC), Senior Director of Remote Learning, published the article entitled “Exploring Blended Learning Designs for Community College Courses Using Community of Inquiry Framework”, which has been published in the Canadian Journal of Learning and Technology.
Prof. Shelly Lyons (DBA Cand., Royal Roads University) presented a paper, co-authored with Prof. Elizabeth Williams, DBA (Cand.) entitled “Communicating Workplace Spirituality: An Employee Recruitment Strategy” at the 8th Annual International Conference on Communication and Management in December 2023. This paper will also be published in the Journal of Education, Innovation and Communication in June 2024.
Dr. Greg Maillet (PhD, University of Ottawa), currently on research leave, has a book being published in 2024 by Wipf and Stock. The book is entitled Recovering Consolation: Sam’s Enchanted Path in The Lord of the Rings
Dr. Nancy Matthews (PhD, University of New Brunswick) served as chair of the 2023 selection committee for the Lieutenant Governor’s Award for Excellence in Public Administration and the Donald G. Dennison Award for Public Administration, organized by The Institute of Public Administration of Canada (IPAC). Additionally, she co-emceed the ceremony held at the NB Lieutenant Governor’s residence in Fredericton.
Prof. Don Moore (MBA, Université de Moncton) was awarded a 2024 Stephen and Ella Steeves Award for excellence in service.
Dr. Sam Reimer (PhD, Notre Dame) delivered lectures for The Executive Leadership Conference for the Salvation Army, Canada/Bermuda in Halifax, NS, the Leadership Intensive for the Canadian Baptists of Atlantic Canada at Crandall University, and The Annual Conference of the Small Church Network Canada in Banff, AB. He also co-wrote two publications: “Symbolic Pollution and Religious Change: The Religious Imaginary of Anglo-Canadian Spiritual but not Religious Millennials” and “Explosively Alive: Stories of Catholic Renewal.”
Raymond Reza
Dr. Raymond Reza (PhD, University of New Brunswick) successfully defended his PhD dissertation at the University of New Brunswick in April.
Elissa Rodkey
Dr. Elissa Rodkey (PhD, York University) presented a paper at the Eastern Psychological Association in Philadelphia this March. The paper was “Freud was a nut; Freud was a saint”: Religious mid-century Psychotherapy based on her research on Catholic psychologist Magda Arnold.
Dr. Isaac Soon (PhD, Durham University) was awarded a 2024 Stephen and Ella Steeves Award for excellence in research.
Robert Williams
Dr. Robert Williams (PhD, University of Maryland) shared a reflection on “Social-emotional learning: Thoughts on how, why, and what we need to know” in the Education and School Psychology Section Newsletter of the Canadian Psychological Association, Fall/Winter 2023.
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Vanessa Black ('09) and her fiancé, Samuel Gaudet, welcomed baby Lola Ada in October of 2023.
01
Rachel (Leland, '21) and Zachary Rice were married on December 30, 2023.
04
Mike Peacock ('99, '02) and his wife were married in July 2021.
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05
Jonathan Dunnett ('10, '11) was inducted into The Council of Competitive Intelligence Fellows in 2023. Only 112 Fellows have ever received the honour, and only a small handful of Canadians. The Council of Competitive Intelligence Fellows is a group of professionals who have been recognized by their peers for leadership in the discipline of competitive intelligence, and who are steadfast in their support of the advancement of the discipline. Jonathan plans to continue to contribute to the tech sector and business community, here in Canada and abroad, as The Council of Competitive Intelligence Fellows aspire to build companies that integrate excellence, and build technology in a responsible and ethical way.
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Barbara Morrisey ('04) published a book in January 2023 titled, They Have No Idea: Love and Desperation in Mothering a Child with Severe Autism and Epilepsy.
Rev. Dr. James (Jim) Rhyno ('85) was recently appointed as a team member in the Atlantic region of MentorLink.org Canada. 09
Gail (Oxner) Hartling ('88) and Jamie Hartling welcomed their first grandchild in February 2024. 10
Congratulations to Rev. Geoff deJong ('06) as he began ministry at Forest Hills Baptist Church in September of 2023. His wife Debbie (Crandall Administrative Assistant 2004-2006) and son Ben ('17 & '20) have joined Geoff in his ministry in Saint John, NB
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In September 2023, Jennifer (London) Van Laren ('98) and her family grew to be a family of 7 via adoption.
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The Government of New Brunswick has accepted Derek Basque's ('12) request to challenge the Metal Fabricator Red Seal. He needed 8,600 hours of experience to challenge, but he has now exceeded 14,000. 07
R. Wayne Hagerman ('74), after 42 years of Pastoral Ministry accepted the full-time position of Correctional Chaplain with the Department of Justice and Public Safety at Southeast Regional Correctional Centre at the age of 69. He had previously served for 8 years as a volunteer Chaplain and was awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee medal for volunteerism to our Province.
In November 2023 Madison Engen ('15) and her husband Karl and welcomed their first baby, Mirabel Engen. 06
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With Valerie (Haley) Lynds ('75) as Coordinator, New Legacy Centre – a drop-in centre with free food, clothing, books & prayer ministry – opened its doors in 2017 in a little rural community. By 2024, it has now grown to have 11 volunteers and serve 7 communities. Valerie has now become an Advisor to a new Coordinator, Treasurer, and Social Media Manager.
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Sue Baxter ('85) and her husband welcomed another grandchild in October of 2023.
Danielle Leger ('22) had the opportunity to spend three months in Guatemala for a discipleship program and to teach in schools through Impact Ministries.
Rev. David Morehouse ('84) retired after 37 years of faithful service as the lead pastor of The Journey Church.
The Crandall University Distinguished Alumni Award (DAA) banquet is an annual event which is held to recognize outstanding alumni who have lived their lives as excellent representatives of Crandall in the world. Each year’s recipient(s) are selected from nominations received from the alumni community and approved by the University Senate. This year, the Distinguished Alumni Award was presented on Friday May 3, 2024, to Rev. Dr. Brian MacArthur ('70), former President of Crandall University.
Dr. MacArthur was appointed President on January 1, 2001, and his first day in the office was his 49th birthday. That morning, an employee came into his office stating that they were quitting and wanted a payout, which put him in a lawyer’s office before the day was over. “So began the excitement of every day,” he shared, “never knowing what the day would include!”
Despite the fact that Dr. MacArthur served as President for 11 years, he never imagined himself becoming President of Crandall, and he had some concerns in taking on the role. “The financial challenge was a major threat. I have great admiration for Dr. Richardson and his team for the bold vision to relocate the University from the Salisbury Road to the Gorge Road. They envisioned growth and trusted the Lord for a greater future. Time has validated their step of faith, but the growth didn’t occur as fast as planned, creating financial pressure,” he explained. Since he had previously served on the Board of Governors, he knew full well the responsibility he was taking on.
Regardless of his reservations, he took the role, trusting God’s will and provision, and over his 11 years as President, he saw evidence of God’s work all around. “More than once in the final days of our fiscal year when we were falling short of ending on target, we literally saw cheques come ‘walking in the door,’” explained Dr. MacArthur, citing one such example of God’s provision. “The loyalty of donors was always a great encouragement.” Another example was the faculty and staff that God delivered in times of need. Often, it felt like they were looking for a “needle in a haystack,” but they always found employees with the right qualifications, as well as a vibrant faith.
His Presidency was also accompanied by times of great flourishing and defining moments. It was during his tenure that a fall convocation ceremony was added, as well as two ceremonies in the spring to account for the growing number of graduates. The grand opening of Stultz Hall also coincided with Dr. MacArthur’s Presidency, and he remembers around 500 people attending to mark the occasion. “Repeatedly in its history,” he emphasized, “God has filled every building with students – from its days as UBBTS, ABC, ABU and now Crandall. We had reached the point where the facilities opened in 1996 were full, and the opening of Stultz Hall in 2010 envisioned another chapter of challenge and growth.”
Since completing his tenure in 2012, Crandall University has undergone many changes, including the addition of master’s programs and the increase in international students, athletics teams, and more. When asked what observations he has made since concluding his role as President, Dr. MacArthur expressed nothing but positive feelings about watching the University grow and change: “It has been a personal joy to see how Crandall has continued to grow in numbers and influence, and I congratulate Dr. Fawcett and his team. Crandall has become one of the largest and most viable Christian universities in Canada. To God be the glory!”
Crandall is pleased to recognize Rev. Dr. Brian MacArthur’s years of service with the Distinguished Alumni Award and he was equally pleased to receive said award, stating: “It is an honor, and I’m humbled by receipt of this award and by having my name added to the list with all the other Distinguished Alumni awardees.”
Golf Classic Jun 20 Mountain Woods Golf Club
Alumni BBQ at Oasis Aug 9
75th Anniversary Gala Sept 20
75th Anniversary Celebration Events Sept 21 Fall Convocation 2024 Nov 2
Crandall University
Crandall Christmas Market Nov 16
Crandall University