MBU Magazine | Summer 2015

MBU

MAGAZINE summer 2015

a publication of missouri baptist university

the three generations of mbu PAGE 14

Letter From the Editor This fall, mbu will attract students from differing perspectives, ages, genders, economics, races, countries, political leanings and even religious affiliations.

Those 5,000+ students are half of the reason why I love mbu’s story.

The other half lies in the distinction that comes with our intentional Christ-centered mission. Undergirded by our exclusively Christian faculty, mbu is a place where students from all walks of life can freely and responsibly search for truth. It’s a place where true, transformative growth occurs, thanks to passionate faculty and staff who are committed to investing in the lives of our students, no matter their background. And at the end of it all, those students not only leave mbu equipped for success, but also with the tools to impact the world in a manner consistent with Christian principles.

It’s a philosophy that has stayed remarkably the same throughout the University’s 50 years—despite the varying characteristics of

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our diverse study body, including the three generations of students who will be studying at mbu this fall.

In this mbu Magazine cover story, we tell the stories of students marked by very different generations. Each grew up during a different whirlwind of events and holds a new promise to lead a rapidly changing and challenging world.

And yet at the core of how we prepare them to become leaders in our world is that unwavering commitment to the integration of faith and learning.

As President Lacey said in his remarks at mbu’s 50th Anniversary Celebration, mbu is a place “where students are inspired to purposeful learning and service and liberated in such a way that their horizons are enlarged, insights deepened, minds sharpened, all the while becoming cognizant to the truth that Jesus Christ is Lord of All.” What a remarkable place.

Bryce Chapman, Associate Vice President of University Communications and Marketing

Game Point

Men’s Volleyball wins the naia National Championship for the first time.

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My Moment to Shine

The communities of mbu and the Pujols Foundation unite for a game of stars.

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XYZ

As mbu adapts to serve new generations, the University’s mission stays the same.

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In Wonder

An mbu Professor finds and shares Christ through the field of plant science.

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Departments From the President

pg. 04

pg. 12

In Wonder

pg. 24

News pg. 06

XYZ: The Three Generations of mbu pg. 14

Where Are They Now?

pg. 26

Nice to Meet You

My Moment to Shine

pg. 11

Game Point

President | Dr. R. Alton Lacey

pg. 22

The mbu Magazine is published by the University Communications Office of Missouri

Provost & Senior VP for Academic Affairs | Dr. Arlen Dykstra

Baptist University, One College Park Drive, Saint Louis, Mo. 63141-8698. Copyright 2015.

Senior VP for Institutional Advancement | Dr. Keith Ross ‘87

All rights reserved. Issues are published in summer and winter. Send change of address

Senior VP for Business Affairs | Ken Revenaugh

notification at least a month before effective date, including both old and new addresses.

Associate Provost & Senior VP for Student Development | Dr. Andy Chambers

Postmaster send address changes to mbu Magazine, Missouri Baptist University, One

Editor | Bryce Chapman

College Park Drive, Saint Louis, Mo. 63141-8698. Articles and letters to the editor are

Managing Editor | Coral Christopher ‘14

welcome. Email submissions to editor@mobap.edu. All submissions are subject to editing

Graphic Designers | Design Consultants: Grain, Inc. & Jenny Gravatt

and will not be returned. Free subscriptions are provided to University alumni, donors

Photographers | Jenny Gravatt, Arnold Ward & Albert Pujols Family Foundation

and friends. Contact 314.392.2304 or editor@mobap.edu for details.

Contributors | Jennifer Black, Jill Hanna, Dr. R. Alton Lacey, Kelly Leavitt & Linda Myers

We are serious and intentional about our Christian faith. We will freely and responsibly search for truth. We strive for excellence. We believe in the importance and cultivation of character. We believe in social change through service and leadership.

www.mobap.edu

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Providence

God’s Intricate Plan for MBU Commencement 2015 marked the official end of the celebration of our 50th anniversary.

Milestones such as this one are important for many reasons. It strengthens relationships, reminds us why mbu was important in the first place, creates new memories, provides opportunities to launch new ventures, increases visibility, brings people together, and preserves institutional memory, just to name a few. In light of the past year of celebration and spring commencement, I asked myself if there were lessons we have learned that might be relevant to this year’s graduates.

One of the things that especially struck me is that we have been consistent in our mission, and that has helped us survive and be successful. Our core values have remained unchanged for 50 years: we are serious and intentional about our Christian faith, we freely and responsibly search for truth, we strive for excellence, we believe in the importance and cultivation of character, and we believe in social change through service and leadership.

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mbu suggests there is a third story. There is an old theological word for it: providence. While we are busy making choices and decisions, God is also busy, weaving and creating. We want our graduates to be open to the possibility of an unseen hand.

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The road ahead for this generation is a bumpy one. Their ability to survive and flourish will depend in part on how they embrace values in their own lives—values including

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Dr. R. Alton Lacey President

trustworthiness, responsibility, fairness, respect, caring, and citizenship. Right now they are understandably concerned more about what David Brooks labels the “resume virtues,” things such as job skills, grades, and accomplishments. There is another set of virtues he calls “eulogy virtues,” the things that get talked about at funerals, the ones at the core of being. These are things like being honest, using good manners, being kind and considerate of others, expressing gratitude, and being a good neighbor. These virtues will serve graduates better in life. mbu has worked hard to ingrain those core values in its graduates.

A second thing I have become more aware of this past year is that we are descendants of people who put it all on the line for mbu.

The early years were especially hard; In fact, in our 10th anniversary year, the college closed down for a week until it was resurrected by the actions of people who had it laid on their heart to come to the rescue of the college. All of us have forefathers and foremothers who stepped out in faith and let go of some place in order to be here. As one who traces his spiritual roots to Abraham, I am descended from people who struck out in faith, who moved on what they did not know.

The people who founded mbu did not know a lot of things; They had no money, facilities, land, or students, and they knew little about higher education. However, they believed God’s promises were reliable, and they obeyed God without knowing a whole lot of things.

Our graduates are challenged to trust God’s promises, and let go of some things so they can accept His offer. It is not easy. It doesn’t mean they will not have doubts, but even the tiniest bit of faith will be enough.

Another lesson I learned from the 50th anniversary is that God’s hand has been evident throughout mbu’s history. During periods of great adversity and great success, He placed people in the right places at the right time.

They served with humility and gratitude.

We are conditioned to describe our lives as mostly what we do. We are told we are the sum of our choices, free and autonomous.

Commencement speeches all over the country are packed with the gospel of self-trust: follow your passion, don’t accept limits, and chart your own course. Another narrative is that we are the sum of our genetic heritage, fixed, determined at birth. What if these narratives are not the only choices? mbu suggests there is a third story. There is an old theological word for it: providence.

While we are busy making choices and decisions, God is also busy, weaving and creating.

We want our graduates to be open to the possibility of an unseen hand. God has already done great things through them, given them great gifts, and means to do greater things even yet. There is a claim on their lives. They live not just for themselves. It is time for them to go forth and Shine On.

MBU Named Sixth in Post-Dispatch’s “Top Places to Work” Missouri Baptist University ranked first in higher education for the third year in a row and sixth of large organizations.

For the third time in as many years, Missouri Baptist University has been named as a Top Workplace in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.

The Post-Dispatch gave mbu the “Work/Life Flexibility award,” for the high number of mbu employees who indicated the University offers the flexibility to maintain a quality personal life. In fact, mbu rated the highest out of all organizations when those surveyed were asked to rate the statement “I have the flexibility I need to balance my work and personal life.” mbu provides full-time employees comprehensive medical and dental plans, which cover the individual’s premiums at 100 percent, and a voluntary vision plan is available. Life insurance, long-term disability, and long-term care are also provided. mbu participates in a notable retirement program. If eligible employees contribute a minimum of 5 percent of their salary, mbu will make a matching contribution of 10 percent.

Employees who have worked full time for

one year and their dependents may enroll in undergraduate courses for free, and employees are eligible for 50 percent tuition concession for graduate courses. Employees have substantial time off with vacation, sick days and nine paid holidays (in addition to spring break and Christmas break per department requirements). Employees receive free membership to mbu’s new Sports and Recreation Complex, offering access to an indoor track, a state-of the-art training and fitness center and fitness classes that are free or heavily discounted.

The Top Workplaces are determined based solely on employee feedback. The employee survey is conducted by WorkplaceDynamics, LLP, a leading research firm on organizational health and employee engagement. WorkplaceDynamics conducts regional Top Workplaces programs with 37 major publishing partners and recognizes a list of 150 National Top Workplaces.

M BU TO P WOR KP L ACE

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in work/life flexibility

6th in large institutions

3Y three consecutive years listed as a Top Workplace

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N EWS · SU MME R 2015

MBU Gains New Basketball Coach Q&A with Coach Brock In late March, Missouri Baptist University announced the 13th head coach of MBU’s basketball program. Previously an assistant and associate coach for Columbia College, Matt Brock competed against Missouri Baptist University basketball within the American Midwest Conference. Now he’s a Spartan with a passion to lead the program to new heights.

What is your vision for the mbu basketball program?

We want each player and coach to build championship habits and have a mindset of improvement every day. We will work to reach our highest potential academically, athletically and spiritually. With the right people and the right approach, wins and losses take care of themselves.

Why did you join mbu?

Coaching and competing against mbu and observing the coaching staff and administration in games and meetings gave me a strong first impression of MBU. When my wife, Sheryl,

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and I came to visit, it felt like a perfect fit.

The beautiful campus, highly successful athletics, great academic programs and, most importantly, Christ-centered approach, was very attractive. As I spent more time with Dr. Smith, Dr. Lacey and others throughout the interview process, I was even more impressed with the mission and values of the athletic department and the University.

What do you look forward to in this upcoming year?

A fresh start. We will be setting the foundation and establishing a new culture. We want to be a team that Spartan fans enjoy to watch and cheer.

What characteristics do you look for in players?

First is character. We want players who will represent our team and the University well. Adversity will come in any season, and to overcome it takes character. Second, we are looking for intelligence. Smart players and people find ways to win. We look for not only good students, but also players who make good decisions on the court as well. Lastly, talent and production. Our conference continues to improve with new additions, high quality programs and coaches vying for conference titles and national

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We want each player and coach to build championship habits and have a mindset of improvement every day.

” tournament berths. It takes athletic, competitive and skilled players to battle with the top of our league.

Why did you become a basketball coach?

My father, Skip Brock, was my high school coach and has had a very successful 30-year career. He is very competitive and always gives his players his best effort and a chance to win, but more importantly makes a lasting impact in their lives as young men. Daily, I saw his model of a coach that influenced young men beyond basketball by teaching them valuable lessons they could use throughout life. I love the game of basketball and want to have a similar impact that my dad and other great coaches and teachers have had in their players’ lives. ■

N EWS · SU MME R 2015

MBU Announces Addition of Sand Volleyball We want to be leaders in bringing intercollegiate sand volleyball to both the Midwest and naia.

In March, Missouri Baptist University’s winning women’s volleyball program announced the addition of an emerging college sport — sand volleyball. mbu will be one of only four naia institutions to add the sport and the only one in the Midwest. “mbu has always been on the forefront of Midwest universities with new athletic program development,” said Dr. Tom Smith, Associate Vice President of Athletics. “We were among the first to start lacrosse (both genders) in the region and women’s wrestling across the country.

With such a successful volleyball program, we want to be leaders in bringing intercollegiate sand volleyball to both the Midwest and the naia.” ncaa institutions began adding sand volleyball just a short time ago, and since then, it has quickly risen to the level of an ncaa Division I Championship Sport. The naia has similar hopes for one of the biggest sports on the rise at the collegiate level.

“Sand volleyball is a sport that is growing rapidly,” said Head Women’s Volleyball Coach Chris Nichols, who will also serve as the head coach for MBU sand volleyball. “We have something that not many other schools offer, which has the potential to draw kids from across the country to play here at mbu.”

The season will begin in March and end in May. ■

#ShineOnMBU Follow @MoBaptistU on Instagram to stay up to date with the remarkable everyday of MBu.

From left to right: 1. Congrats to the three Spartans drafted to the MLB. Orlando Olivera was drafted to the STL Cardinals, Marcus Crescentini to the LA Dodgers and Jeff Smith to the Arizona Diamondbacks. 2. Congrats, grads. 3. Spartan Field. 4. The rotunda is more than an iconic symbol of the University—inside is a favorite place for acoustic phenomenons.

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N EWS · SU MME R 2015

MBU Celebrates History and Future with 50th Anniversary “We celebrate progress and move toward a future in which we are not only successful but significant, a future where we let our hearts soar as high as they will, where the gates of ignorance are assailed, and where students are inspired to purposeful learning and service and liberated in such a way that their horizons are enlarged, insights deepened, minds sharpened, all the while becoming cognizant to the truth that Jesus Christ is Lord of All.” — President Lacey More than 400 Missouri Baptist University students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends gathered at the Ritz-Carlton in Clayton on March 26 to celebrate 50 years of shining bright. The evening was part of a year-long celebration surrounding the University’s 50th anniversary.

Missouri Baptist College was founded in the fall of 1964 on the campus of Tower Grove Baptist Church by St. Louis baptists who had a vision for Christian higher education in St. Louis. Today, the legacy of Christian leadership and giving continues, allowing mbu to continue the vision of its founders — provide higher education with unwavering Christian values and academic excellence. It’s a vision that marks the lives of mbu students and alumni as they serve in their communities, churches, industries and across the world. ■

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1 President R. Alton Lacey speaks about the

future of the University.

2 Dr. Keith Ross, senior vice president of institutional advancement, thanks those who invested and continue to invest in the lives of mbu students.

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MBU Jazz band accompanies the dinner.

The 7-foot birthday cake celebrating mbu’s 50th anniversary.

N EWS · SU MME R 2015

MBU Dedicates Don and Mary Pillsbury Wainwright Performance Hall On March 17, MBU Trustee Bill Miller, Don Wainwright, Mary Pillsbury Wainwright and President R. Alton Lacey dedicated the Don and Mary Pillsbury Wainwright Performance Hall.

Missouri Baptist University dedicated the Don and Mary Pillsbury Wainwright Performance Hall this past March.

Housed in the Pillsbury Chapel and Dale Williams Fine Arts Center, the Don and Mary Pillsbury Wainwright Performance Hall acts as a multi-purpose area for classes, intimate concerts, voice recitals, ministry team rehearsals and worship meetings.

The namesakes, Don and Mary Pillsbury Wainwright, are known throughout St. Louis for their leadership and philanthropy.

Mary Pillsbury Wainwright is an accomplished lyric soprano and owner of a fine jewelry company. Throughout the years, Pillsbury Wainwright has served on the University’s Board of Trustees in addition to the Pillsbury Wainwright philanthropic efforts.

The Pillsbury family and the Pillsbury family foundations were significant benefactors for the construction

MBU Launches New Science Honor Society

of Pillsbury Chapel and Dale Williams Fine Arts Center, the hallmark building on the campus of mbu.

Don Wainwright is the former ceo of Wainwright Industries, a manufacturing business supplying the automotive and aerospace sectors.

Together, Don and Mary Pillsbury Wainwright serve as co-chairs of mbu’s 50th Anniversary Fundraising Campaign. ■

Missouri Baptist University launched the Gamma Lambda chapter of the Sigma Zeta Science Honor Society with an installation and initiation ceremony on Saturday, April 18.

Sigma Zeta is a national honor society devoted to promoting scholarship and excellence in the science industry, and was founded in 1925. To date, Sigma Zeta has inducted more than 70 chapters. The members of the honor society participate in school-sponsored and independent research projects throughout the year and present at an annual convention. Missouri Baptist University initiated 25 chapter members for the 2014–2015 school year. Members must achieve a 3.5 cumulative grade point average and be a junior or senior in the natural sciences department.

Programs in the department include biochemistry, chemistry, biology, mathematics, biotechnology, chemistry with a concentration in forensic science and pre-nursing. ■

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N EWS · SU MME R 2015

Natural Sciences Professor Receives 2015 Distinguished Professor Award Through chemistry, Dr. Mary instills confidence in students to change doubts to “I can.”

Dr. Mary Vedamuthu has been awarded Missouri Baptist University’s 2015 Distinguished Professor Award.

Vedamuthu, known by her students as “Dr. Mary,” is an associate professor of chemistry at mbu. She directs the development of the chemistry and biochemistry programs while teaching most of mbu’s upper division chemistry courses.

Vedamuthu is heavily involved with students. She advises the Math & Science Club, Pre-Health Club and was instrumental in founding mbu’s newest honor society — the science-based Sigma Zeta.

MBU Professor Presents at Regional PRSA Conference

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“Dr. Mary is passionate about the success of her students,” said Dr. Jerry Deese, natural sciences division chair. “Chemistry is one of the more difficult subjects to master, so Dr. Mary puts a lot of effort into helping students understand the subject matter.”

Students’ passion for science is cultivated with care by Vedamuthu. She develops student’s enthusiasm for learning chemistry in the classroom and supplements their learning with field experiences. ■

mbu’s Amanda Staggenborg presented on social media ethics to the Midwest Public Relations Society of America Conference on June 11. In her presentation, “What We Should Do vs. What We Could Do: Public Relations Ethics in Social Media,” Staggenborg addressed the often neglected ethical impact of social media.

Staggenborg is an assistant professor of public relations and joined mbu in 2011. Her experience includes working for the Missouri Division of Tourism and St. Elizabeth Academy, and she has consulted for several St. Louis organizations. Her research areas of interest are corporate public relations, media law, organizational communications, crisis communications and social media ethics.

In 2012, Staggenborg launched the mbu Media Talk series, which features prominent communications professionals in the St. Louis region. Previous mbu Media Talk guests include sportscasters Frank Cusumano and Ron Jacober; St. Louis Post-Dispatch veteran Bill McClellan; and Mark Abel, executive vice-president of Weber Shandwick.

Public Relations Society of America is the world’s largest public relations organization. The group encourages professional development and excellence, while providing accountability of ethical professionals. ■

S OCI A L M E D I A

BY T H E NU M B E R S

1B one billion likes daily on Instagram

53% of millennials would rather lose their sense of smell than their technology

5.4 average hours per day spent on social media

Nice to Meet You

Aaron Black, assistant professor of management and business administration and director of the bjc Partnership Initiative, is an adventurous spirit. Instead of sitting back and contemplating an adventure, Black conquers dreams.

As a professor, Black partners with students, encouraging them to also achieve their ambitions. In addition to teaching business courses, he directs the health management bjc Partnership, allowing current healthcare professionals to take the next step in their career with a bachelor’s degree.

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1 For Black, running marathons is not

exhilarating enough. Black is training to climb Mount Rainier—crampons, ice axe and all. He’s no stranger to the mountains; he has skied and hiked the natural skyscrapers that he will mountaineer.

2 Even Black’s coffee has an adventurous spirit. His coffee beans come from Uganda, Italy, Hawaii, war zones, cartelcontrolled jungles and deep into the mountains. Don’t let a paper filter touch these cherished beans—Black strongly prefers to taste the full flavor of the bean.

3 Black’s favorite book is “Over the Edge of the World” by Laurence Bergreen.

The book tells the story of Magellan’s trek to circumnavigate the globe. The

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voyage took three years, and 252 members 7 Black’s family highly prioritizes travel. This of the 270 person crew perished, including year alone, Black skied Copper Mountain, Magellan. survived a hurricane at Cabo and took 4 Slow computers are irritating. Instead of his sons to meet Mickey Mouse at Disney settling for a slow, hum-drum PC, Black built World. His oldest son has also caught the his own computer from scratch. Now he has travel bug so much that Black’s family a home PC that boots in under five seconds. stayed at a hotel near Lambert Airport so 5 While in high school Black worked as a bus the family could watch the airplanes take boy and dishwasher at an Indian restaurant off and land. alongside employees from Nepal and India. 8 Last year, Black’s family rented a house At the end of the shift, the cooks would on the Banzai Pipeline in Hawaii while cook authentic Indian food, and Black swimming, surfing, and sightseeing for a quickly learned to appreciate the much week. Hawaii remains to be one of Black’s spicier cuisine. favorite vacation locations and coffee 6 Nehemiah is the backbone of a book Black origins. is currently writing. His book will include his doctoral research and highlight the empirical research on callings as viewed through the lens of scripture.

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GAME POINT 12 mbu m agazine

Spike. Slam.

Celebrate.

With the final play of the season, mbu Men’s Volleyball became national champions for the first time.

This was far from being a surprise win­—after a remarkable season and post-season, mbu was seeded #1 in the national championship tournament. The team exceeded expectations with ease.

Cheers vibrated throughout the packed Carl & Deloris Petty Sports and Recreation Complex as mbu succeeded in their quest to become national champions. When the referees awarded mbu the game point, fans and players alike erupted in excitement. We became champions.

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1 Senior Kevin Knight spikes the volleyball during the NAIA National

Invitational Championship Match.

2 The packed Carl & Deloris Petty Sports and Recreation Complex

cheered the team on to win the championship on home court.

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cover story

XYZ

the three generations of mbu The incoming freshman class of 2019 marks a new era in higher education—a generation that can’t recall the turn of the millennium. This undeniably digital-native generation, dubbed Generation Z, joins those belonging to Generations X and Y, rounding out a diverse group of learners who study at mbu. Each generation grew up in a different whirlwind of events—Watergate, 9/11, the Great Recession—and holds a new promise to lead a rapidly changing and challenging world. Training these leaders to shine and lead in these times spurs advances and changes of mbu, yet the values and mission of St. Louis’ evangelical Christian University continue to—and will always—endure.

GE NE R ATIO N X 1 9 6 4 –1 9 8 0

G EN ERATION Y 1981–1995

G EN ERATION Z 1996–CURREN T

Paul Ngwenya

Molly Carver

Anna Hughes

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Paul Ngwenya healthcare management

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1964–1980: Generation X Here’s to Generation X: The Latchkey kids grown-up and now fiercely independent. A generation with grit, tenacity and passion for success, but often overlooked. The white picket fences of their parents faded away, but they don’t belong to the questioning and technology-native millennials either. They are a generation of focus, resilience and self-reliance formed largely by a time of societal change.

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nlike their parents, Generation X did not grow up in a time of optimism. Their youth was marked by Watergate, layoffs and the brink of war. The baby boomers grew up with the dream of space; GenX witnessed the tragedy of the Challenger. Society expectations were changing. Both parents were in the workforce. Higher education was beginning to become the norm, not the exception.

Before turning 25, a third of Generation X achieved a bachelor’s degree—more than any generation prior. The continuance of GenX’s pursuit of a college degree has transformed higher education. Instead of only offering a traditional college experience, programs for the adult student have emerged and become commonplace.

In 1996, mbu led an effort for non-traditional students to achieve a degree at the University by opening the first mbu extension site in Moscow Mills, Mo. That single extension site launched a wave of efforts to assist non-traditional students achieve a degree. Today, mbu offers online programs in addition to 11 robust regional learning centers throughout Missouri and Illinois. The pursuit of empowering students to achieve their dreams of degrees has led to partnerships within the St. Louis community, including the largest employer in St. Louis—bjc Healthcare.

Since 2013, mbu’s partnership with bjc Healthcare allows employees to take courses at their work in pursuit of the Bachelor of Professional Studies in Healthcare Management.

Paul Ngwenya—a student in the first bjc cohort—is a young, robust member of Generation X. When he first heard of mbu’s partnership with bjc, he was elated. Ngwenya was a patient care technician on the medical surgical floor of Missouri Baptist Medical

Center and was disenchanted with his position.

He excelled in patient care, enjoyed camar­ aderie with coworkers and was comfortable, but Ngwenya desired something more—an office with a college degree on display.

When Ngwenya entered the cohort, he was empowered by the knowledge, wisdom and expectations from his professors. “They teach me beyond the syllabus,” said Ngwenya. “I look forward to the conversations after class and always walk away full of knowledge.”

After a year of networking with his mentors, Ngwenya received one half of the goal: an office. His new role as a new patient coord­ inator meant more than just a space of his own, but also a chance to better his life.

The better life is far more than trading in his scrubs for a button-down—it’s the ability to come home every night and never work a weekend or holiday again. It's a step toward stabilizing his future and providing the best for his children.

Not even multiple sclerosis—an unpredictable, often disabling disease of the central nervous system—could derail his plans for a brighter future.

When Ngwenya lost motor control of his right arm while driving to work, he realized something was terribly wrong. An mri later, Ngwenya was diagnosed with the cause for his paralysis—he was living with multiple sclerosis. His attack was severe, and he thanks God for recovering from what could have easily been a fatal episode.

Recovering motor functions was not easy —simply moving his fingers was a nearly impossible task.“I thought I was going to be paralyzed,” said Ngwenya. “I couldn’t complete tasks of a 5-year-old—I couldn’t even build with legos.” But Ngwenya was determined that

First computing device: Sega Game Gear Advice to younger generations: Take advantage of opportunities.

If you work hard now, your life will be easier later.

ms would not end his story. “There was really no choice—I could lay in my bed and cry or be strong and move.”

The same determination kept Ngwenya on the path to a bachelor’s degree, and now he plans on pursuing a master’s degree after graduation.

“I don’t want to stop there,” said Ngwenya.

“There is more I need to achieve, and I want to continue to increase the quality of life for me and my family.”

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There is more I need to achieve, and I want to continue to increase the quality of life for me and my family.

” It’s a quest common among the forgotten generation. Instead of living the Norman Rockwell lives of their parents, Generation X has the strength to persevere the changing tides of society. There have been hard times aplenty, but the resilient generation presses on for a quality life and to leave a legacy for the generations to follow. ■

24.8% of mbu undergraduate students are Generation X.

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Molly Carver public relations

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1981–1995: Generation Y Millennials have been the face of magazine covers, a topic in more than 2,000 New York Times articles and the focus of countless discussions. Generation Y is the crux of a new era. Also called millennials, this generation was born in a time of war, a time of digital discovery.

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errorists struck the Twin Towers and millennials lost the sensation of safety in schools. They have significantly more degrees than previous generations, but entered a troubled workforce upon graduation.

Millennials are digital natives, but still grew up riding bikes through the neighborhood before dinner. White picket fences are not #throwbackthursday; they are fixtures of a mysterious age.

Millennials cherish vintage items and design—they shake the dust off vinyl records and revive music from the past. Forgotten buildings are restored to their former glory— but this time wired for Wi-Fi. This should be no surprise—Generation Y grew up while society transformed to a digital frontier. They place value in the past, but yearn for something new.

Like the generation before them, millennials are changing the face of higher education.

Achieving a college degree straight after high school is the norm, and, in the classrooms, one question is repeatedly asked: “Why?” Classrooms have become launch pads in the pursuit of learning. Professors supplement classes with discussions and projects while encouraging students in their quest for knowledge.

Courses have become a lab for learning.

At mbu, the lab-for-learning approach included the addition of a new sports and recreation center complete with state-of-the-art human performance labs, community-building housing, one of the largest campus coffee houses in the state of Missouri, the renovation of older buildings for technology and the iconic Pillsbury Chapel and Dale Williams Fine Arts Center. The building represented the new age of Fine Arts, including an auditorium seating 960 people, a broadcast

studio, technology-equipped instructional spaces and a computer lab preparing music and communications students for their changing industries.

Students continue to pass through the halls of the iconic building, including recent public

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mbu incorporates the best of the old and new thoughts of education. I built treasured relationships with my professors—my mentors—while studying tools empowering me for a world of innovation.

” relations graduate, Molly Carver.

Carver stands tall among her peers with an ambition to match. Upon graduating mbu in December 2014, Carver was offered a position at Junior Chamber International—a nonprofit empowering Generation Z to create positive change—as a public relations professional.

At her work, she chats with colleagues across the world, works with the United Nations and travels the globe. Carver’s world is driven by technology. She’s answering emails, surveying and storytelling the world via social media, researching on the Internet and chatting through instant messaging.

This is a world Carver has known since its creation. As she progressed through school, teachers began experimenting with technology

First computing device: Macintosh Performa Advice to younger generations: Cultivate relationships and network. Learn from the wealth of wisdom and experience of people around you.

in the classroom. While technology may be intertwined with Carver’s life, she values the skills and relationships standards prior to the technology takeover. “We can blame or hide behind technology, but the ability to network and build a strong community is essential to life,” said Carver. “Technology does not lessen our ability to build relationships. Our decisions and intentions make the difference.”

Even in the emerging digital age, relationships are the pivotal point of faith as seen across mbu’s campus. Millennials may supplement their physical Bibles with apps, encourage brothers and sisters through social media and access unlimited sermons on podcast, but building relationships continues to be king.

In fact, community is the most effective tool among millennials. According to the results of Barna Group—the leading research organization in faith and culture—when millennial non-Christians increase their Bible reading, they often did so after seeing the Gospel change a person’s life.

At mbu, Carver felt empowered by the focus of relationships and preparing students for a digitally driven world. “mbu incorporates the best of the old and new thoughts of education,” said Carver. “I built treasured relationships with my professors—my mentors—while studying tools empowering me for a world of innovation.” mbu graduates are strong in the Christian faith and prepared to lead in the ever-changing world. ■

51.7% of mbu undergraduate students are Generation Y.

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Anna Hughes business with concentration in entrepreneurship

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1996–Current: Generation Z Benton is a small town. The old mining hub in southern Illinois is easy to miss, but Benton-native and incoming Missouri Baptist University freshman Anna Hughes is surely not. With stylish short hair and a cropped black leather jacket paired with an assured gait, Hughes’ presence demands attention. Welcome to mbu, GenZ.

H

ughes is among the first class of a new era at mbu—the first class of Generation Z. She's unable to remember a time prior to the war on terrorism, the rise of personal computing and financial instability. The childhood of uncertainty is producing a new generation of students ready to take—and create—the world.

This mentality developed a significant entrepreneurial spirit. In fact, 42 percent of Generation Z desires to be their own boss and 3 percent currently own their own business according to a Gallup poll. For Hughes, the entrepreneurial spirit is strong.

Hughes has a vision of opening a neighborhood café with coffee, quaint sandwiches and conversations that lead to relationships, and ultimately, souls saved. The evangelical nature is the mission to her visionary café and the root of her entrepreneurial spirit.

At mbu, Hughes is taking a fresh approach to the classic business major—she is studying business with an entrepreneurial focus. The new concentration launched fall 2013, echoing the entrepreneurial spirit of the University.

For Hughes, the entrepreneur route was not straightforward. Ever since she can remember, her plan was to be a journalist. She excelled in English courses and became editor of her high school yearbook—the Scarab— but she realized that God was calling her to a different path to fulfill a riskier dream long forgotten. “God doesn’t put passions in your life without a reason,” said Hughes. “After seeking the Lord, my friend reminded me that God calls us to do crazy things, and I realized that I needed to follow my crazy vision.”

Christ is Hughes’ cornerstone. Her faith motivates her to serve in the slums of Kampala, Uganda, to teach local vacation bible schools,

to lead Christian camps and to disciple youth groups. As she travels the world, Hughes is intentional about using relationships to point others to Christ and strengthen their faith.

It’s that deep desire for relationships that enables her to focus on an individual with little regard to a buzzing phone. Despite growing up with computers (in fourth grade a classmate had her own cell phone), Hughes is appreciative of technology, but values traditional relationships, and unplugged moments.

Technology is a tool, not a dictator. Hughes isn’t alone—about 85 percent of GenZ prefers to meet a friend face-to-face rather via technology, according to a Sparks & Honey study.

The digital revolution has afforded Hughes

“

I cannot be defined solely on my birth year. I am so much more—and so is everyone else.

” and her classmates opportunities impossible in the past. In addition to taking dual-credit college courses, Hughes was able to complete online college courses. It’s an ambitious spirit that leads Hughes and her classmates to enter college with a year’s worth of college credits in their pockets. Even though the first GenZ students graduated high school this year, mbu has already served 2,500 Generation Z students through excel, a program providing the opportunity for high school juniors and seniors to enroll in college courses.

The emerging trend coincides with the

First computing device: Windows '95 Dell Advice to younger generations: Jesus is much better than the cares of the world. Focus on Him and everything else will fall in place.

higher expectations parents have set for their students. Attending college is less of a choice and more of an expectation. “My parents have high hopes for me,” said Hughes. “Even when I was young, I knew my parents expected me to attend college.” In fact, this generation believes that higher education is valuable and necessary for a solid career—81 percent of Generation Z views a college degree as important to advancing their career goals, according to the Pew Research Center. Hughes sees higher education not only as essential for career success but also an environment to build her faith, strengthen her character and further learn to lead.

While each generation has trends and commonalities, each individual has a unique story more developed and complicated than studies and generalizations. “I am unique,” declares Hughes. “I cannot be defined solely on my birth year. I am so much more—and so is everyone else.”

Each mbu student is an intricate human with distinct dreams, needs and talents, and a desire to be mentored and prepared to succeed in an evolving world. This desire remains the same even as generations change. And so mbu continues to foster individuals from each generation—developing community leaders fully prepared to shine wherever they may go. ■

19.5% of mbu undergraduate students are Generation Z.

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MY MOMENT to SHINE Missouri Baptist University basketball faced a favorite opponent — Albert’s All-Stars — on the evening of Sunday, Feb. 15.

The Pujols Foundation and mbu teamed up for the fourth annual Albert Pujols All-Star Basketball Game at the Carl and Deloris Petty Sports and Recreation Complex. mbu basketball competed against the Pujols’ All-Star team. The team consisted of teenagers and young adults with Down syndrome. Pujols and other celebrity athletes including Lance Lynn, Brad Thompson, Jackie Joyner-Kersee and Fredbird played alongside the All-Stars.

The Pujols Family Foundation was founded by Albert Pujols and his wife, Deidre Pujols, in 2005. The Pujols Family Foundation assists those living with Down syndrome and improves the quality of life for those impoverished in the Dominican Republic.

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In Wonder

An MBU Professor finds and shares Christ through the field of plant science Shayani Pieris knows plants.

Surrounded by exotic plants from Egypt, Israel and Jordan, the mbu plant science professor can name them all—and note their biblical significance. The Euphorbia milii may be the plant used for Christ’s crown of thorns. The thin, grass-like plant—papyrus—was most likely used for the Pharaoh’s decrees against the Israelites.

But most impressive is the mbu professor’s overflowing joy and passion for plants—and sharing her knowledge and faith with others.

It’s that deep passion for teaching that motivated Pieris to leave ground-breaking research at the top plant science institute in the country to teach at mbu.

Pieris’ passion for plants developed as she grew up in her homeland of Sri Lanka. Surrounded by numerous temperates filled with diverse plants, Pieris was fascinated not only by the beauty of flowers—but the potential each plant brings to the world. Even algae.

Before teaching at Missouri Baptist University, Pieris joined researchers at Donald Danforth Plant Science Center. There, she studied possibilities of using algae to reduce—and possibly eliminate—the need for oil in gasoline.

In order for algae to be an acceptable substitute, the single-celled organism needed to produce more lipids to absorb carbon dioxide.

Pieris’ research led her to insert a human gene into the dna of algae in an attempt to increase absorption of carbon dioxide.

In the middle of the project, Dr. Mary Vedamuthu—a chemistry professor at mbu— invited Pieris to speak to mbu’s Math and Science Club. When classes began the next school year, Pieris was introduced to students as mbu’s new plant science professor.

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For Pieris, teaching at mbu was more than an opportunity for her to teach at the college level again. Even before speaking to the Math & Science club, Pieris was confident she wanted to teach at mbu, an institution that believes faith and science are interrelated.

“

What we see in biology is a lot of order that points us to a designer. Even a single cell is elaborate—it’s complex like a city.

”

“God set the world in place,” said Pieris. “I see God in biology; He made it all valuable.”

Pieris sees this wonder everyday and believes it is evidence of the Creator.

Integrating faith and learning is simple for Pieris—evidence of Christ is interwoven throughout science.

“What we see in biology is a lot of order,” said Pieris. “That points us to a designer. Even a single cell is elaborate—it’s complex like a city.”

The intricate design and order of flowers is a visual reminder of a designer. “I love to remind students that the order they see is a design,” said Pieris. “The more I discover, the more there is to learn.”

Pieris continues to discover more about science and signs of her creator, all while sharing her passion with scientists throughout the world—including the budding scientists seated every year in mbu classrooms.

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Where Are They Now? expanding roles within Barnes-Jewish St. Peters. While at mbu he was involved with student government and served as a manager and statistician for baseball and basketball games.

Duane Berry Carole McFadden (Boch) (B.A. in Elementary Education ’74) lives in Williaton, Fla., with her husband of 36 years. Carole and her husband have three grown children and seven grandchildren.

Carole is a registered nurse and co-owner of Geneiscoffeeroastera.com, which is a small batch coffee roasting company. She and her husband started the coffee roasting company six months ago. She is also the co-director of Open Gate Farm and Retreat Center.

(B.A. in Behavioral Science, Minor in Bible ’82) lives in Owensville, Mo., with his wife, Diana (’85). Duane and Diana have two grown sons, Micah and Nathaniel. They just celebrated their first grandchild, Rylan, last July with their son Micah and daughter-in-law, Ashley.

Duane is currently the minister of worship at First Baptist Church, Owensville, Mo. During his time at mbu, Duane sang in choir, served as the vice president of his junior class and the president of his senior class. His favorite memory from mbu is living in the dorms.

Steve Zabriski (B.A. in Bible ’75) lives in Cedar Park, Texas, with his wife. His wife’s two children are married with children and live in the Austin, Texas, area. Steve’s daughter, Michelle, lives in the ChampaignUrbana, Ill., area. Steve’s son, Stash, is at home with the Lord after a life filled with triumphs and wonderful dedication to Him. Currently, Steve is the senior product manager for Polycom, Inc. He is responsible for the lifecycle of the Polycom video endpoints.

During his time at mbu, he was involved with student government. His favorite memory is when Missouri Baptist College reopened in the fall of 1974 after closing in the spring.

Steve so appreciates what God has done and is doing at mbu.

Aubra Houchin (B.A. in Natural Sciences ’76) lives in St. Charles, Mo., with his wife, Patty.

They have two grown children, Jenny and Andy. Aubra is currently a private family physician in St. Peters, Mo., and he has some

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Ken Parker (B.A. in Church Music and Vocal Performance ’88) lives in Kearney, Mo., with his wife, Lori.

They have two grown sons who live in the Kansas City area. Currently, Ken serves as the senior pastor at First Baptist Church Kearney. He is also an adjunct professor at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He was involved with choir, pep band, ministerial alliance and contemporary ensemble during his time at mbu. His favorite memory from mbu is the choir tours. Ken served two terms as a trustee at mbu. Now, he is the vice president of the board of trustees at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.

Brad Pilkington (B.A. in Music Education ’82) lives in Newark, Ohio, with his wife, Paula and son, Jack. Currently, Brad is the worship pastor at Spring Hills Baptist Church in Granville, Ohio. He was involved with choir, chorus and musicals at mbu. By far his greatest memory at mbu is meeting his wife-to-be, Paula Bottoms, on his first visit to Missouri Baptist College in the summer of 1978 at the Watermelon Chapel.

Gary Taylor (B.A. in Religion ’90) lives in Jacksonville, Ala., with his wife, Beth; son, Jack; and daughter, Calleigh. Gary is a pastor and author. This June he became the associate pastor at Central Christian Church in San Jose, Calif., where his responsibilities include discipleship and pastoral care. He was involved in student government and basketball during his time at mbu. His favorite memory from mbu is graduating and making friends with the members of SpiritWing as an honorary roadie.

prepared for success

Mathis Family Micah (’03) and Courtney (’02) Mathis are following God’s calling on their lives and planting a church in St. Louis. This isn’t the first church plant they have worked with—upon graduating they both taught school in the St. Louis area while helping plant a church in Eureka, Mo. Years later Micah was called to serve in full-time ministry. The couple quit their jobs and moved to Connersville, Ind., where Micah served as a worship arts and discipleship pastor for five years.

While there, they grew their family, and have had three daughters.

Micah recently completed his church planting residency training in Chicago through Harvest Bible Chapel Fellowship, and they have moved back to St. Louis to plant Harvest Bible Chapel St. Louis South.

Micah and Courtney Mathis are now following their love for St. Louis and Christ, serving in a capacity far greater than they imagined. A story of shining on.

manager at GolfTEC St. Louis. In addition, he has been the head golf coach at mbu since 2008. During his time at mbu, Justin was involved with the golf team from 1995 to 1997. His best memory from mbu is winning the AMC conference championship as an individual from 1996 to 1997.

Kevin Carrothers

Victoria Peisker (Evans)

(B.S. ’91, M.A. in Christian Ministry ’11)

(B.S. in Accounting and Business Administration ’95)

lives in Rochester, Ill., with his wife, Jennifer, son, Ian, and daughter, Elena. Currently, Kevin is the senior pastor for Rochester First Baptist Church. Kevin is also serving as the vice president of the Illinois Baptist State Association. He is actively involved in shortterm international mission work to Guinea, West Africa.

lives in St. Peters, Mo., with her husband and two boys. Currently, Victoria is the compliance and ethics manager at Enterprise Holdings. She was recently promoted to her current position in March 2015.

Rebecca Potthast-Bundren Justin Hoagland (B.S. in Business Administration ’96) lives in Arnold, Mo., with his wife, Sara, and their children, Lane and Liliana. Justin is a PGA golf teaching professional and city

(B.A. in History and Business Administration ’96) lives in Barnhart, Mo., with her husband, Mikchael; and their dog, Lucky. After graduating from mbu, Rebecca earned two M.A. degrees in International Relations

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prepared for success

Rick Brewer Rick Brewer’s (’08, ’09) entrepreneurial journey began while he was a communications student at mbu. In 2006, Brewer and a web developer friend founded a web marketing company.

Their first client? A physician’s office down the road from mbu’s main campus. The venture is now S03 Creative, a St. Louis marketing agency. Since building a website for the neighborhood physician, the agency’s clientele has grown to include Britney Spears, Sean Kingston and Rascal Flatts. mbu’s communications classes and Brewer’s experience and friendships built in the

and Management. She is currently the vice president/operations project consultant for Bank of America. Her favorite memory is meeting four dear friends her freshman year whom she is still very close to more than 20 years later.

Karen Lohnes (Viehmann) (B.S. in Education ’99) lives in St. Charles, Mo., with her husband, Drew (’00). Karen currently teaches physical education at Fairmount Elementary and has been working for the Francis Howell district for 16 years. During her time at mbu, she played on the softball team for four years and the basketball team for one year.

Becky Thorn (Self-Page) (B.A. in Music Education and Vocal Performance ’99) lives in O’Fallon, Mo., with her husband, Steve,

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communications studio prepared him for a job in the creative field.

Immediately after graduating with his undergraduate degree, Brewer returned to mbu for his MBA to further help him run his growing and successful business.

When he’s not working, Brewer continues to mentor and advise younger professionals pursue their dreams as well. A story of shining on.

son, Isaac, daughter, Grace, and son, Elijah.

Becky is currently on the music faculty at St. Charles Community College teaching music theory, ear-training, music history, voice and choir. She also sings with some fellow mbu alumnae in a female voice quartet called Evidence Sings. She was involved in musicals, opera workshop, chamber choir and Sigma Tau Delta at mbu. Her favorite memory from mbu is playing Maria in West Side Story.

Kristin Brent (Revenaugh)

Christopher Wren

(B.A. in Social Science ’00, M.S. in Counselor Education ’06, Ed.S in Curriculum and Instruction ’12)

(B.A. in Business Administration ’99) lives in Washington, Mo., with his wife, Melissa; their son, Zachary; daughter, Lillyana; and son, Hudson. Christopher and Melissa are both biological and adoptive parents and are passionate about each of their children. Christopher is currently a senior business analyst at IT Claims System and works for claims configuration and business analysis at Centene Corporation.

lives in Troy, Mo., with her husband, Jeff, sons, Mason, Brady and Aubrey, and daughter, Reagan. Currently, Kristin is the guidance counselor and vocational educator/evaluator at Lewis and Clark Career Center. Kristin and Jeff got married June 21, 2014.

children and adolescents. She was involved with Faithful, Chorale and the pit orchestra during her time at mbu. Her favorite memory is laughing and pouring out her heart with Rob Cornwell, who was an inspiration.

ministerial alliance from 2005-2007 and served as the vice president from 2006-2007.

His favorite memory from his time at mbu is building lifelong friendships with students and professors.

Kate Hanch (Murphy) (B.A. in Religion ‘07)

Jonathan Kotthoff (B.S. in Human-Computer Interaction ’02) lives in N.J., with his wife, Shelby, and three children. Jonathan is the president and co-founder of Radar_APPS, Inc., which is a mobile and iBeacon startup focusing on the hospitality, education and retail spaces.

During his time at mbu, Jonathan was involved with SIFE.

Chuck Beem (B.A. in Religion ’06) lives in St. Louis, Mo., with his wife, Rebekah, son, Isaiah, son, Elijah, daughter, Anastasia, and youngest son, Eliot. He is currently working in corporate learning and development. Chuck was involved in ministerial alliance and InCharactre at mbu.

His favorite memory from mbu is meeting his wife.

Craig Tanner

lives in O’Fallon, Mo., with her husband, Steve. Kate is pursuing a Ph.D. in theology while working as an adjunct instructor at Central Baptist Theological Seminary in Shawnee, Kan. She received the Missouri Baptist Foundation’s Fellowship of Christian Stewards Emerging Leader Award for 2014. Her favorite memory from mbu is the impromptu dance parties and serenades for other students with her best friends.

Vicky Lauer (Kasten) (B.A. in Chemistry and B.S. in Biology ’07) lives in Wautoma, Wis., with her husband and is expecting twins in June. Vicky is a large animal veterinarian and received the Animart Veterinarian of the Year Award in January. She was involved with the math and science clubs during her time at mbu.

(B.A. in Religion ’02) lives in Sullivan, Mo., with his wife, Kendall, sons, Josiah and Benjamin, and daughters, Kristen and Kaylee. Craig is currently the executive pastor of Temple Baptist Church in Sullivan, Mo. He is also an adjunct instructor of Old and New Testament for mbu’s Regional Learning Center in Franklin County.

Jessica Johnson (Arnold) (B.A. in Communications ’06) lives in Edwardsville, Ill., with her husband, Brandon, daughters, Claire and Amelia, and son, Calvin. She is currently the head cheer and dance coach and spirit coordinator at mbu. She was involved in cheerleading, student activities and SIFE while at mbu. Her favorite memory from mbu is when the PH boys sang to the North Hall girls outside in the parking lot.

Kara Stone (Patterson) (B.A. in Psychology with a Minor in Church Music ’05) lives in Winfield, Mo., with her husband, Tim, stepdaughter, Savannah , stepson, Nathan; son Malachi, and they are expecting in December.

She is a licensed professional counselor with a private, Christian counseling practice called M.O.V.E. – Making Our Vows Eternal. She works with marriages, families, couples, individuals,

Terry Delaney (B.S. in Religion ’07) lives in Mexico, Mo., with his wife, Krista, sons, Austin, Isaac and Nathaniel, and daughters, Sarah and Carolyn. Terry is the pastor of Union Baptist Church in Mexico, Mo. It is a historic congregation founded in 1862 and is one of five SBC congregations in the community. Terry served in the

Mark Krause (M.A. in Secondary Educational Administration ’08) lives in Farmington, Mo., with his wife, Julie, daughter, Kelsey, and son, Kael. He is the director of operations for Farmington High School and was recently inducted into the Missouri Wrestling Hall of Fame.

Daniel Meyer (B.A. Business Administration/ Management ’08) lives in St. Louis, Mo. Daniel works as a credit analyst at Frontenac Bank. He was involved in SpiritWing and SIFE during his time at mbu. Daniel will be married this September.

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Lauren Ribeiro (Young) (B.A. in Human Services and Psychology ’08) lives in Afton, Mo., with her husband, Paulo.

Lauren is currently working as a school social worker and counselor. Her favorite memory from mbu is meeting her husband in Dr. Beutler’s U.S. History class.

named the 2011-2012 Teacher of the Year for her elementary school. Her favorite memory from mbu is working on projects with others she met in class and getting to know others from her district.

Timeline Online. His favorite memory from mbu is Student Activities Chicago trips.

Joseph will be marrying fellow graduate Bryanna Hampton (’12) in Sept. 2015 in St. Louis.

Rebecca Feltz

Robert Lofton

(MBA ’12)

(B.A. in English ’14)

lives in Florissant, Mo. Currently, Rebecca works as a technical specialist II for Edward Jones. Rebecca recently accepted a promotion with Edward Jones as a result of her MBA.

lives in Union, Mo. In the next few months, Robert will be moving to Japan to teach English as a second language courses to Japanese youth.

Jeffrey Mann (MBA ’14) lives in Wentzville, Mo., with his wife and precious child. Currently, Jeffrey is the chief financial officer for CORE Telecom Systems in St. Louis, Mo. He was promoted to his current position after completing his MBA.

Meaghan Berlin (Cullen) (B.S. in Behavioral Science ’10) lives in Peoria, Ill., with her husband and two dogs. She is currently a child welfare specialist for The Center for Youth and Family Solutions. Meaghan graduated from mbu with honors. Her favorite memory during her time at mbu is being involved in small study groups.

Nichole French (B.S. in Early Childhood Education ’12) lives in Ste. Genevieve, Mo., with her dog, Clara Jane. Nichole is the co-owner/operator of Sweet Things Sweet Shop, a candy and gift store in historic downtown Ste. Genevieve, Mo. The store specializes in nostalgic candies and gourmet chocolates. Her favorite memories from her time at mbu are spending time with her suitemates in the North Hall dorms, mattress sledding, and road trips to Chicago and Minnesota with the fantastic four.

James Westbrook (B.A. in History with a Minor in Religious Studies ’10) lives in Maryland Heights, Mo., with his wife, Desiree, daughter, Avery, and son, Justus.

Currently, James is the director of jobs and leadership training with Mission: St. Louis.

He achieved his M.A. in theological studies and has been published multiple times. His favorite memory at mbu is the featured musicians that would perform at chapel.

Stephanie Airoldi (Anderson) (M.A. in Counseling ’11) lives in O’Fallon, Mo., with her husband, Tony, and sons, Alexander and Remington.

Stephanie is currently a kindergarten teacher for the Wentzville School District. She was

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Matthew Marshall (B.A. in Worship Arts ’14) lives in O’Fallon, Ill. Currently, Matthew is an I.T. and LiDAR technician for VerticalGeo in O’Fallon, Ill. During his time at mbu, Matthew was involved in Concert Band, Chapel Band, Jazz Band, Cru, The Perk and Ministry Groups. His favorite memory from mbu is working with SpiritWing.

Lane Morecraft (B.M. in Music Ministry ’14)

Joseph Hartmann (B.S. in Broadcast Media ’14) lives in Arnold, Mo. Currently, Joseph is a multimedia specialist for the Muny, multimedia contractor with White Media Agency, head cameraman and producer for Prepcasts, LLC, and video production specialist for Missouri Baptist University’s communications and athletics departments.

During his time at mbu, Joseph was involved in mbu Timeline, Student Activities and

lives in St. Charles, Mo. Currently, Lane is the worship pastor at First Baptist Church in St. John, Mo. Lane received the Outstanding Student of Achievement Award for Music Ministry while attending mbu.

Emilie Schulte (Cutler) (B.M. in Music Education ’14) lives in Quincy, Ill., with her husband, Jacob.

They will celebrate their first wedding anniversary this May. Currently, Emilie is the K-12 vocal music teacher at Liberty School in Liberty, Ill. During her time at mbu, she was an R.A. and involved in Allusion, Choral, Chamber Singers, Concert Band and Pep Band. Her favorite memory at mbu was anything she did with Resident Life.

SPARTAN SUMMER NIGHTS 2015

Brooke VanZandt (B.A. in Ministry and Leadership ’14) lives in O’Fallon, Mo., working as a full-time missionary for Overland Missions. Brooke leads short-term mission trips within the organization and recruits for future trips. She loves watching God take people outside their comfort zones and even take them beyond what they thought possible.

James Wade II (M.A. in Counseling ’14) lives in Desloge, Mo., with his wife, daughter and son. Currently, James is the director of behavioral science for St. Francois Manor. He is also partnering with state agencies, including MO-DMH, to educate and reintegrate individuals with disabilities back into the community.

MOVIE ON ART HILL (FREE) Friday, July 31 | 7 p.m.

The Sound of Music Grab a blanket and some fold-up chairs and come hang out with fellow mbu alums and watch a movie on Art Hill.

Bring a picnic dinner or buy dinner from one of the many food trucks that will be present. Movie starts at 9 p.m. and is FREE. STL CARDINALS GAME (SOLD OUT) Tuesday, Sept. 1 | 7:15 p.m.

Cardinals vs. Nationals Join your fellow alums in cheering on the Redbirds from the Coca-Cola Scoreboard Patio at Busch Stadium. The ticket is $50 and includes a two-hour, all-you-can-eat buffet. These seats normally retail for $77-$122, so don’t miss out on this great deal.

Register at www.mobap.edu/ssn2015 For more information visit us online or call 314.485.8437

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Missouri Baptist University One College Park Drive Saint Louis, MO 63141-8698

TAKE THE FINAL STEP. FAST TRACK YOUR ED.D. IN HIGHER EDUCATION LEADERSHIP LEARN MORE AT MOBAP.EDU/HIGHERED GRADUATEOFFICE@MOBAP.EDU

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