Advancement Update

ADVANCEMENT UPDATE

Dr. Robert Knowles

Highlights

If we were to sit over a cup of coffee and you asked me what the highlights of being a VP of Advancement are, I wouldn’t have to think long. Four things come to mind immediately without giving too much thought:

1. Meeting with supporters

Churches, individuals, alumni, businesses, and foundations believe in this work we do. It’s so encouraging to hear the stories of parents whose children have attended Crandall, business people who have hired our graduates, and alumni who have fond memories of their experience. Donors believe in a bright future as our graduates enter their chosen fields of employment including law, education, business, medicine, pastoral ministry, or wherever God leads them. Visits are less about donations and more about telling the stories of students growing in character and being challenged to become all they can be for the honour of Christ. I leave these appointments thankful for our strong base of support dating back to our beginnings.

2. Interacting with students

Since I only teach one course, my direct interaction is somewhat limited, but I remind myself that “it’s all about the students.” I am here with a particular role – that of making Crandall better known to current and potential supporters – in order that students can have the best possible experience while they are with us. I can’t tell you how much I have been blessed by attending chapels led by our students and seeing them discover and use their talents. I hear how they are pushing through on assignments and making lifetime friendships. I celebrate their successes at graduation as we’ve watched them mature before our very eyes. I’m sad to see them go, but filled with gratitude that, of all the schools they could have attended, they chose Crandall, allowing us to play a small part in laying a foundation of faith and education to see them into the future chapters of their lives.

3. Working with our employees

As a pastor for many years, I was convinced that no one could or should do everything. We all play a part on the team. At Crandall I see dedicated staff working behind desks, cleaning facilities, attending meetings, and serving students. They are committed to the mission of transforming lives, and many have graduated from this same institution. I see faculty walking to classes with notes, books, and a cup of coffee ready to use their knowledge to teach curriculum and integrate faith into their discipline. I see them talking to students in the hallways and in their offices. I see them at basketball and soccer games cheering on our teams. Our staff and faculty are committed to our institution and its mission.

4. Watching God work

Above all, I don’t believe that what makes Crandall, Crandall would be possible without knowing the “why.” From the early days, a verse was selected out of the thousands in the Bible to unite our efforts – Colossians 1:18b “That in all things He might have the supremacy (pre-eminence).” So many times we start classes and meetings with prayer and a sense of acknowledgement – it’s by Him and for Him. This University is a story of faith and faithfulness. God has and continues to provide.

So… how about that cup of coffee? I’d be happy to talk with you more about what Crandall is up to.

Dr. Robert Knowles (’89) has served as Vice President for Advancement since 2012. He is married to Crystal (Huxter) (’92, ’16), and they are parents to Micah (’17), Rachel (’19), Bethany, and Luke.