MBU
MAGAZINE summer 2016
a p u b l i c at i o n o f m i s s o u r i b a p t i s t u n i v e r s i t y
—DR. ALTON LACEY
Faithful Presence Page 12
President | Dr. R. Alton Lacey Provost & Senior VP for Academic Affairs | Dr. Arlen Dykstra Senior VP for University Advancement | Dr. Keith Ross ‘87 Senior VP for Business Affairs | Ken Revenaugh Associate Provost & Senior VP for Student Development | Dr. Andy Chambers Editor | Bryce Chapman Managing Editor | Coral Christopher ‘14 Graphic Designers | Design Consultants: Grain, Inc. & Jenny Sinamon Photographers | Jenny Sinamon, Cheap Seats Photography & Andrea Hallgren, Belmont University Photographer Contributors | Jill Hanna, Dr. R. Alton Lacey, Katlyn Moncada, Linda Myers, Gwen Ragno & Sandra Riutcel www.mobap.edu
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The mbu Magazine is published by the University Communications Office of Missouri Baptist University, One College Park Drive, Saint Louis, Mo. 63141-8698. Copyright 2016. All rights reserved. Issues are published in summer and winter. Send change of address notification at least a month before effective date, including both old and new addresses. Postmaster send address changes to mbu Magazine, Missouri Baptist University, One College Park Drive, Saint Louis, Mo. 63141-8698. Articles and letters to the editor are welcome. Email submissions to editor@mobap.edu. All submissions are subject to editing and will not be returned. Free subscriptions are provided to University alumni, donors and friends. Contact 314.392.2304 or editor@mobap.edu for details. 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.
Faithful Presence pg. 12 “
Missouri Baptist University was built on the premise that knowledge alone is not enough.
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News pg. 5 Nice to Meet You pg. 11
Become acquainted with mbu’s Jeanna Ryner, director of library services.
Catalyst for Good pg. 20
For mbu Professor Amy Brinkley, the story of change begins in Ghana.
My Moment to Shine pg. 24
How one biochemistry major is researching the next wave of food engineering in St. Louis’ startup business district.
Laying the Foundation pg. 26
If you ask the dean of theology at Belmont University, faithful presence isn’t anything new at MBU.
Where Are They Now? pg. 30
Updates on the successes of MBU’s ever-growing alumni community.
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t h e pr esident
To Better the World Creating a community of faithful presence to engage our culturally pluralistic world
Dr. R. Alton Lacey, mbu President
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If we are faithful to the entire community, then those of other faiths or no faith will find places of grace and beauty in all of their expressions.
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Recently, I have come to believe that if we are to pursue faith and learning in the late postmodern world, then we must do so against the backdrop of cultural change. There is significant scholarly work these days in the areas of Christianity and culture, and it is something that we as Christians should be concerned about, especially as it impacts our approach to faith and learning. Although 88 percent of Americans claim to adhere to some faith commitment, our culture remains intensely materialistic and secular, making our stated goals to “change the world” elusive at best. The integration of faith and learning should seek to get to the heart of how we will engage a pluralistic world in which we are one culture among many and, given the circumstances of our culture, answer the question, “How can we be authentically faithful?” While there has been much useful writing and thought about the integration of faith and learning over the past 40 years, it has been slow to engage our diverse culture. The challenges we face today are unlike any I have encountered in my 42 years in higher education. We are increasingly faced with the question of how to encourage faithfulness in students in all circumstances, even those who undermine us. For the past few years I have been encouraging our new and ongoing faculty to embrace the emerging idea of “faithful presence” as a means for engaging students. Over the years as I have engaged with alumni from the universities where I have served, I
have noticed a common theme as they talk about their experiences. They almost always speak of a professor, coach or staff member who profoundly influenced their lives. These stories are rarely about course content but instead about how someone truly cared about them, pushed them to their limits and helped them to flourish. Those professors showed themselves to be fully present to these students. At mbu, our community is purposefully open to people of all creeds and no creed. We share a world and a campus with people who are not only different but also sometimes hostile to the community of Christian believers. However, we believe God is at work in his own time and that all of us must contribute to the overall flourishing of our community. If we are faithful to the entire community, then those of other faiths or no faith will find places of grace and beauty in all of their expressions. They will find that their lives matter and that they belong to a community in which they are valued and treated with fairness, respect and compassion. We often speak of “changing the world,” which sounds wonderful and challenging but is not very realistic. However, making the world better is realistic, and maybe over a long time that results in changing the world. I think from the standpoint of mbu, every person we enable to positively contribute to society is making the world better. I know that we already are doing this in many ways. ■
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MBU Announces Intent for Nursing Program mbu seeks to add bsn and rn-to-bsn completion program Missouri Baptist University’s board of trustees expressed its intent to develop a petition to the Missouri State Board of Nursing for a school of nursing. The program will address the growing need for evangelical nursing programs in the St. Louis area. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a marked nursing shortage with 1.2 million vacancies for registered nurses emerging between 2014 and 2022. Admission of nursing students would depend upon approval by the State Board, but the University hopes to begin admitting students in the fall of 2017. University leaders have spent the last two years studying the efficacy of a four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (bsn) degree and an rn-to-bsn completion program. Currently, the University offers an Associate of Science degree with a concentration in pre-nursing. ■
New MBU Dean of Adult & Online Programs Announced Beginning this school year, Dr. Ryan Baltrip will take the reigns of mbu’s new online programs. Baltrip has served as the director of online learning at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary since 2012. Baltrip received his Ph.D. in Higher Education from the University of South Florida and an M.Div. and Th.M. from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. As mbu’s dean of Adult and Online Programs, Baltrip will continue the University’s efforts to make a college degree attainable with flexible offerings while preserving the rigor and prestige of the University’s degree. The program launched last year and currently offers four undergraduate degrees and 11 graduate degrees solely online. For more information on the programs, visit online. mobap.edu. ■
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MBU Confers More than 700 Degrees to Class of 2016 As the University’s alumni ranks continue to grow, MBU also recognizes a professor who continues to lead and inspire students academically and personally
Left: President R. Alton Lacey names Dr. Holly Brand mbu’s 2016 Distinguished Professor. Right: Senator Roy Blunt addresses the new graduates, faculty and their families.
More than 700 degrees were conferred during mbu’s 44th commencement held at the Family Arena on May 3. In addition to President Alton Lacey’s commencement address, United States Senator Roy Blunt served as the commencement speaker for the evening. The first groups of students to complete mbu’s Bachelor of Professional Studies in Healthcare Management through a unique partnership with BJC Healthcare were among those who graduated. mbu launched the degree in 2013, pairing it with a cooperative relationship to provide professional development and educational opportunities for BJC employees—St. Louis’ largest employer. This year, mbu extended the degree’s flexible format with the launch of the University’s new online programs. To conclude the capstone event, Dr. Holly Brand, associate professor of psychology, received mbu’s 2016 Distinguished Professor Award.
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“We are fortunate to have many outstanding professors at Missouri Baptist University,” said President Lacey. “It is our privilege to annually recognize one of those professors as distinguished professor of the year. The selection process considers model classroom teaching, campus leadership, outstanding course development, scholarship, integration of faith and learning, and strong relationships with students both within the classroom as well as across the campus.” Brand holds a Ph.D. in psychology from Saint Louis University and is the founder of Yellow Umbrella Ministries (YUM)—an organization that shares Christ through speaking engagements and writing. She also serves as president of Living Water Academy’s board of directors in Wildwood, Mo., and is a board member for BreakDown STL, which educates and empowers teens to make positive life choices. ■
BY THE NUMBERS
773 degrees conferred
50 classes Dr. Brandt has taught at mbu
44 commencement ceremonies since mbu’s founding
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MBU Celebrates 5th Spartan Summer Nights Series The Office of Alumni Relations hosts the annual Spartan Summer Nights series to give former students and their families an opportunity to find fellowship with their fellow Spartans. For more information on how to get involved visit: mobap.edu/ssn. ■
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Tuesday, June 14, at 6-8 p.m. After public hours, the Magic House opened exclusively for mbu alumni and their families to browse and play with hundreds of handson exhibits.
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Saturday, July 30, at 8:15 p.m. Alumni spent the evening with their fellow Spartans for a performance of “Fiddler on the Roof” under the stars at The Muny in Forest Park.
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Tuesday, August 23, at 7:15 p.m. Cheer from the Coca-Cola Scoreboard Patio at Busch Stadium as the Cardinals take on the New York Mets.
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MBU Theatre Schedules Ambitious Lineup for 2016-2017 Missouri Baptist University’s theatre department announced a colorful lineup of familiar favorites for its upcoming season The 2016-2017 season will kick off Oct. 6-9 with “The Secret Garden.” Based on the book by Frances Hodgson Burnett, the musical adaptation by Lucy Simon and Marsha Norman follows orphaned Mary Lennox in England as she is sent to live with the Cravens. Upon arrival, she discovers a secret garden from her family’s past and seeks help from her cousin and the house staff to bring it back to life. “Every time a bell rings an angel gets his wings.” The quote made famous by the popular Frank Capra movie watched every year at Christmastime will be brought to life in a stage adaptation by Joe Landry of “It’s a Wonderful Life” Dec. 1-4.
The spring semester will begin Feb. 2-5 with Lorraine Hansberry’s “A Raisin in the Sun.” The play is a domestic tragedy about a lower-class African American family in Chicago that aims to move to a dominantly white neighborhood after getting an insurance check upon the death of their father. As an animated film, a musical and book, J.M. Barrie’s “Peter Pan” has captivated audiences of all types since the story was created in 1898. mbu Theatre will bring Peter, Wendy Darling, the Lost Boys and Captain Hook to life for its final show of the season March 23-26. ■
OCT. 6-9, 2016
DEC. 1-4, 2016
FEB. 2-5, 2017
MAR. 23-26, 2017
The Secret Garden
It’s a Wonderful Life
A Raisin in the Sun
Peter Pan
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MBU Volleyball Brings Victory Once Again Women’s and men’s volleyball play in national championship games Missouri Baptist University men’s volleyball won their second consecutive NAIA National Championship after defeating Grand View University in the pool play on April 23. Head coach John Yehling led the team to a near-perfect record of 331, and was awarded naia Men’s National Coach of the Year. The women’s volleyball team ranked second in the nation after competing in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics National Tournament Championship match in Sioux City, Iowa, on Dec. 5, making mbu history for the team. The Spartans were able to play a record-breaking season by making it to the semifinals for the first time since 2005 with a 39-5 season record—the second-highest win percentage the women’s volleyball team has recorded since 2006. “Following an outstanding women’s program last fall, the men’s volleyball team continues the tremendous success of Spartan Volleyball,” said Dr. Thomas Smith, mbu associate vice president and director of athletics. “It is truly remarkable the talent and poise of the men Coach Yehling has recruited.” ■
#ShineOnMBU Follow @MoBaptistU on Instagram to stay up to date with the remarkable everyday of MBu.
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From left to right: mbu Spartans played against Albert’s All-Stars from the Pujols Family Foundation on Jan. 31. ■ The 80-bed Spartan Village South is set to open this fall. ■ Bryanna Hartmann joined mbu alumni for At the Table, a lunch and discussion about online marketing. ■ mbu men’s tennis made their first-ever appearance in the NAIA National Championships in Mobile, Ala. ■
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To Serve Others Students jet to Indonesia and Guatemala to love orphans and share the Good News amidst darkness.
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Children hold tissue paper flowers that the mbu team made for them to give to their mothers for Mother’s Day in Guatemala.
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Kristianna Pirrie reads and practices English with children in Indonesia.
mbu students in Guatemala pose with their translator and mission trip coordinator.
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Children play in a village in southern Sumatra, Indonesia, where English speakers are sparse.
Damaris Wyand and Kathryn Hinrichs pose with a group of girls in the Guatemlalan village during a youth gathering.
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Anna Bertels and her friend Dwi pose for a photo on the beach moments before Bertels shares the Gospel with her.
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MBU Addresses Race with Grace Through the lens of Christ, the mbu community and thought leaders come together to discuss the historic and emerging issues of race. Missouri continues to be a national spotlight for the deep issues of race known throughout the world. This spotlight puts mbu in a unique position to discuss and bring light to the subject with the love and grace of Christ. Discussions and prayers united the University when students gathered in the quad to pray for change and peace as issues of race emerged at the University of Missouri last fall. The following February, the student group Association of Black Collegians at mbu hosted a discussion on race to provide a safe avenue to bring up issues troubling our nation and how to continue Christ’s teachings to the situations. This later extended to an event series sponsored by the Alumni Office. During these discussions, the University brings in outside panels of thought leaders on the subject of diversity to facilitate conversations related to specific topics and current events. Panel members of the first event included Michael Leary, James Westbrook and Jon Hessel. Leary is a research ethicist at Washington University in St. Louis. He is a lecturer in New Testament Studies at Australian College of Christian Studies and the author of books and articles on themes in theology and culture. mbu alum Westbrook is the director of
The Association of Black Collegians at mbu lead a time of prayer for reconciliation at the University of Missouri.
Beyond Jobs at Mission: St. Louis. Westbrook has published several articles on the topics of diversity and biblical racial reconciliation. Hessel (’03) serves as the family pastor for the West County campus of the Journey, a leading church in the St. Louis area. Prior to serving at the Journey, Hessel was the resident director for mbu. In the upcoming fall semester, the
University will host a screening of the first installment of “Profiling Race,” featuring Mike Higgins. The St. Louis pastor, former dean of Covenant Seminary and former chaplain in the army has become a key player in building a bridge between races using Christ as the cornerstone. ■
SAVE THE DATE : H OM ECOM I NG 20 16
OCT. 20, 2016
OCT. 21, 2016
OCT. 22, 2016
During Alumni Chapel, we will celebrate the success and light of our alumni.
The 20th Annual The Perk: the Event continues the tradition with coffee, music and community.
Cheer the Spartans to victory during our third homecoming football game.
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Nice to Meet You
On any given weekend, Jeanna Ryner, director of library services, can be found watching a live Shakespeare play, brunching with her husband or fixing a jet engine for a military operative plane. Ryner’s dedication to service shines through every aspect of her being, and she is especially eager to lend her knowledge and unique experiences to the students studying in the Jung-Kellogg Library at mbu.
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When it comes to reading for herself, Ryner finds comfort in the classics. Her shelf of favorites would be filled with century-old books like her favorite, “David Copperfield” by Charles Dickens. Ryner is currently pursuing her second master’s degree in English literature so she can also teach students from her favorite classics.
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Indian curries, Ethiopian injera and spicy lentil dishes give a taste of Ryner’s adventurous palate. Experiences while serving in Qatar or studying abroad in London allowed Ryner to explore ethnic cuisines. Fortunately, a taste of her travels can be enjoyed right in St. Louis without a flight overseas.
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Sometimes the furry friends in life gift us with the best moments. With Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery as a nearby
walking destination, Ryner enjoys relaxing along the banks of the Mississippi River with her rescued Labrador, Gracie.
4 Fezzywigg’s There’s something fitting about a librarian sipping a warm cup of tea beside hundreds of books each day. Actually, whether Ryner is sitting at home base in her library office or strolling campus, she’s unlikely to leave behind her mug of tea. Rather than traditional brands, Ryner’s tea cravings are infused with everything from lavender to mint loose-leaf teas. She purchases these treasured teas at a small, locally owned market called Fezzywigg’s located in O’Fallon, Ill.
5 Jets and Engines It’s best to not judge a book by its cover. While she may spend her days in the stacks, Ryner has also been a trained jet engine mechanic for the U.S. Air National Guard since 2012. Learning the ins and outs of mechanics from a family friend since she
was only 8 years old, Ryner is qualified to ensure that each component of the planes is maintained to the highest standard possible.
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A summer is not complete for Ryner without pitching a blanket on Shakespeare’s Glen in Forest Park and watching a performance of her favorite playwright’s work brought to life. Ryner also frequents the Fabulous Fox Theatre to catch some of Broadway’s finest touring shows.
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Before she decided to join the Air Force as a teenager, Ryner was already fulfilling her passion to serve others as a volunteer junior firefighter in her hometown of Madison, Ill. Her emergency medical response and aid continued until 2013, when she began to set her sights on the military and ultimately made her move to St. Louis. ■
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To each other
To our tasks
Within our spheres of influence
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Faithful Presence
Culture clings to a well-worn adage: “knowledge is power.” The prominence is prevalent across cultures and led to the industry spread and expectation of higher education. But is knowledge enough? Is knowledge alone truly power?
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issouri Baptist University was built on the premise that knowledge alone is not enough. Instead, the mbu community embraces the classroom experience as just a portion of higher education. That’s why it’s not unexpected to hear that the mbu science department adopted a student from gang-ridden Compton, Calif., who is expected to graduate from medical school next year. That’s why it’s not unexpected to hear how a shy student with crippling anxiety found her voice, and in return her roommate found her faith. These stories are not few and far between; they are the faces on the quad, the families at graduation and the smiles long after. These stories don’t come about on accident or through good intentions alone. These lives are changed because of a culture of intentional faith that pervades this University. One might call it a faithful presence. Dr. Lacey first read about the idea in the summer of 2012 on sabbatical. This phrase was introduced by James Davison Hunter, a respected sociologist and professor at the University of Virginia, in his book, “To Change the World: The Irony, Tragedy, and Possibility of Christianity in the Late Modern World.” When Lacey read Hunter’s book, he knew
these principles were at the heart of mbu. “In recent years there has been a trend toward viewing faith and learning more as an ongoing intellectual activity that celebrates working through alternative arguments and studying the positive contributions of human learning while developing a Christian worldview,” said Lacey. “It seems to me that a better understanding of faith and learning incorporates the idea of engaging a pluralistic world in which we are just one culture among many. How can we encourage faithfulness in students in all circumstances?” Hunter introduces three principles to be the solution: being faithfully present to each other, to tasks, and to our spheres of influence. These three principles are not exclusive of each other—they are interrelated throughout our lives and relationships with Christ’s light shining through. to each other On a hot Thursday night on the eve of summer, two men and their families reflected on the past and marveled at where God continues to lead them in life. Both men are awarded educators highly esteemed throughout St. Louis, but their relationship originated as a collegiate wrestler and his coach. In 2002, Jason Lievanos, then 18 years old,
ventured from his home state of California to see if a Christian University in St. Louis would be a right fit. After touching down at Lambert Airport, Lievanos joined Tom Smith—then mbu’s wrestling coach—for a family dinner with one other student. When Lievanos began his freshman year that fall, he found himself a permanent spot at the dinner table. After learning of Lievanos’ financial struggle, now associate vice president and director of athletics Dr. Tom Smith invited Lievanos to live with him and his family. Smith exemplified the servant leadership that Lievanos was brought up to emulate, and Lievanos was relieved to find a strong mentor so far from his home in California. “I just knew that the piece of servant leadership was always there for Tom and Merry (Smith),” said Lievanos. “It drew me to them, the wrestling program and mbu.” Lievanos is not the only mbu student who has lived in Smith’s Ballwin, Mo., home. In fact, the family has housed 20 college “children” in all, including four students at once. When these students live with Smith, they are nothing less than family. This was crucial for Lievanos when a shoulder injury ended his wrestling career. “My senior year I was injured and couldn’t go to nationals,” said Lievanos. “That was mbu magazine 13
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“They kept me going and kept me in check. This is what I hope to be for other people.” hard. When faced with the end, athletes can easily go off the deep end, but they didn’t let me. They kept me going and kept me in check. This is what I hope to be for other people.” Smith insists Lievanos has indeed been that source of hope for people—including his adopted daughter Grace. Lievanos met Grace when she first arrived in the United States and looked after her in between classes his senior year. Years later, he became her teacher at Parkway West Middle School and was able to return some of the guidance Smith gave him years ago. Today, the culture of mentorship within mbu Athletics has grown into Project Timothy. Through the project, each coach chooses two student-athletes to mentor and read through the book of Timothy. The next year, each mentee chooses two new students to mentor and the pattern continues as new students cycle in and mentored alumni enter the world. But faithful presence among students isn’t always structured. In fact, it’s often not. Rebecca Morrow and Olivia Cox were freshman suitemates, but that relationship quickly proved to be so much more after Cox invited Morrow to stay with her family before Morrow returned to her homeland
of Peru over their Christmas break freshman year. During those two weeks and countless Target trips, Morrow became a part of the Cox family. Today, they spend their time dreaming of the future over coffee, encouraging each other during bike rides and enjoying family game nights. “Rebecca has become a part of my family since day one,” said Cox, whose mother, Tammy Cox, works at mbu as the director of teacher education and is a faculty member. “There are times when I even forget that she doesn’t biologically belong in our family. She fits in so well and I have witnessed the way she treats each member of my family, and I would not trade her for the world.” Morrow feels the same way. “Kendall and I are like one and the same, and I feel very protective over her,” said Morrow of Cox’s younger sister. “I get really excited and proud when she achieves something. Tammy and John (Cox) have done so much for me; there’s no way to express how thankful I am. Tammy is someone I can always go to for advice, and John is such an encourager.” Being faithful to each other as Christians isn’t easy, but it’s not all we are called to do. Around the mbu community, new alumna Toni Stang is known for her strong faith
and discipleship of other students. But when Stang first came to mbu, she wanted nothing to do with Christ. During Stang’s second semester, Andrea Mossman was her roommate. “When I first met Andrea, I saw that she had a large Bible,” reflects Stang. “I thought, ‘Oh no. She must be one of those faith girls,’ and asked our mutual friend not to leave me alone with her so she wouldn’t ask me about my faith.” Mossman didn’t push Stang away. In fact, they quickly became friends and Stang noticed her roommate’s example even as Mossman dealt with significant anxiety issues. Mossman’s kindness and persistence led Stang to attend church and eventually accept Christ. “After I was saved, I would ask her to tell me Bible stories, and she told the stories
1 Jason Lievanos (left) and Tom Smith, along with their families, catch up on a summer evening at the Smith residence. 2 Throughout the years, Smith and Lievanos continue to invest in each other’s families. 3 “I enjoy my bike rides with Becca, ” said Cox (right). “But I love our breaks more.” mbu magazine 15
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“Medical school was never in my plans for the future.” of Samson, David and Goliath, and it took off from there,” said Stang. “Little did I know that she was praying on my behalf before I was a believer that I would come to Christ.” to our tasks Under Hunter’s “Faithful Presence,” investing in others exemplifies the ability to achieve excellence. Christians are called to do all of their work, including academics and careers, with the utmost care to the glory of God. Adrian Simien (’13) exemplifies this mission. Simien is entering his fourth year of medical school at Des Moines University on a full-ride scholarship. It’s a far cry from his childhood in gang-ridden Compton, Calif. Growing up, Simien lacked any real guidance in school or life. His cousins were in gangs, and kids from his neighborhood were not expected to grow up to succeed— or even live to grow up due to gang violence. Simien first came to mbu on a basketball scholarship, thinking he would eventually play overseas. After he met and married his wife, he found new determination. Simien thought that if he truly worked hard and with God’s favor, he could perhaps become
a physician’s assistant. One of his professors, Dr. Lydia Thebeau, disagreed. “Simien had a natural zeal and commitment to become a doctor,” said Thebeau. “He had many obstacles to overcome, but his dedication told another story.” He could become a doctor. “Medical school was never in my plans for the future,” said Simien. “While attending mbu, I was exposed to many areas. My advisors guided and assisted me with every curious question I had.” The science faculty rallied around him, and Thebeau helped Simien become a technician at Mercy Medical Center. There he decided he was meant to become a doctor. Determination and a strong support system propelled Simien to thrive in his studies and work, despite juggling full-time work, school and family. Simien’s dedication to excellence led him to become sought after by medical schools as he continued his education. For Lievanos, who was the first of his 30 cousins to graduate from college, his story of excellence is one that began years ago. Growing up, his father was a role model of servant leadership and the example was continued through Smith, leading him to a career in education.
“I came to mbu knowing I wanted to be a teacher,” reflected Lievanos. “I felt called to ministry, but I just didn’t know how.” After graduating from mbu, he worked at a Christian school where he had the privilege to not only teach students academically but also to lead them in their lives. He took that approach—teaching the whole child— with him to Parkway West Middle School as a social studies teacher. There he worked with students in and outside of the classroom, removing obstacles so they could succeed. His dedication and results were noted when he won Teacher of the Year for Parkway West Middle School and Parkway School District in 2014. In addition to his bachelor’s degree in social science education, Lievanos also earned a Master of Science in Education in classroom and instruction in 2006 and a master’s degree in education administration, both from mbu. He now works as an administrator for Wildwood Middle School, continuing his servant leadership among students and the teachers he leads. within our spheres of influence When St. Louis Baptist leaders set out to form a Christian university in St. Louis, mbu magazine 17
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“There isn’t one professor who has not made an impact in my life.” they were determined to build up Christian leaders in the St. Louis area whom would become influencers in their communities and careers. The involvement of professors living out their faith outside the classroom grants an authenticity to the message and truth of the faith. This influence has made a decided impact on students such as Mossman. “There isn’t one professor who has not made an impact in my life,” said Mossman. “Not only because of who they are in the classroom, but who they are in the workforce. I’ve worked with Kasey Cox outside of mbu in community theatre, and she keeps her strong faith.” Because her professors authentically live out the Christian faith among other cultures, they have influenced Mossman to do the same. Mossman originally wanted to be a counselor for young women. Through her
Left: In 2014, Andrea Mossman was involved in the mbu production of “Cover”written by Joy Powell. One of her parts was a monologue called “Quiet Warrior,” a true story of a woman who insisted on a faithful presence even in the darkest of places.
first class with Dr. Holly Brand, associate professor of psychology, Mossman realized she could have just as much impact through higher education. Her professors have inspired her to follow a similar career route so she can influence students like herself. “I see them as stepping stones for my life,” said Mossman. “Kasey Cox is already working as a full-time professor, wife and young mom. I want to be like Dr. Holly Brand when I’m her age.” For Simien, that positive influence came from a professor who reached out to help him realize his potential, even beyond his studies. “I am really close to Dr. Thebeau and have always been since attending mbu,” said Simien. “She has guided me in many ways throughout my undergraduate studies and even beyond that. Not only was she my advisor, she acted as a mother figure and mentor in many ways.” As a fourth-year medical student, Simien is dedicated to using his position to influence his patients and classmates. “My faith and principles guide me on how to treat and respond to my patients and classmates,” said Simien. “Although most students and patients don’t believe in God, I still express who I believe in by my confession and actions. I continually show
love to everyone I come across, whether it is in medicine or not.” Simien believes he was uniquely prepared to follow through with his mission. “mbu actively includes the Christian beliefs in every aspect of education. Prayer before class, after class and even privately gives us guidance and strength,” reflected Simien. “mbu teaches the principles needed to succeed in every environment and these are the principles we take with us outside of the classroom.” It’s with this approach our students and graduates are prepared to do more than thrive outside of the University. It’s as President Lacey realized during the hot summer of 2012: While changing the world is a daunting task, being faithfully present to one another is a critical step to making the world a better place. “I have stood in prayer circles and heard students talk about their faith and friendships and how mbu took them in, encouraged them to grow, and became their family,” said Lacey. “It is a scene repeated every day across our campus with professors, coaches, counselors, residence hall staff, and anyone who works with our students. We don’t brag about it, we just try to be a faithful presence in students’ lives.” ■ mbu magazine 19
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the gambia guinea-bissau
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burkina f. nigeria
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liberia cote d’ivoire
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Catalyst for Good When Amy Brinkley joined the Ghanaian community, she realized her calling for higher education. Now, she tries to help Ghanaians realize theirs.
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hen Dr. Amy Brinkley, mbu assistant professor of higher education leadership, is not focused on equipping the next generation of university leaders, she’s likely thinking of Essibu and Desmond. The two children, who live in a remote village in east Ghana, consume a lot of Brinkley’s thoughts these days. The impact they have made on her life is indelible. So much so, that she feels called to help make a lasting difference in theirs, in part, through higher education. During the summer of 2010, Brinkley first became acquainted with the coastal country during a service learning trip for her master’s degree. As the summer teacher for the local
middle school in the coastal town of Winneba, Brinkley quickly developed a strong bond with the locals. Leaving Ghana that first time was one of the hardest things she has ever had to do. “They became so much of my heart, so leaving was traumatic,” reflected Brinkley. “I never thought I would see them again. It took a year to get over the pain of being separated from Ghana.” In 2011, Brinkley discovered that her beloved country wrestled with the trafficking of children under the guise of the fishing industry. She connected with a local organization, Challenging Heights, and returned to Ghana to teach children who have been rescued from
Desmond considers Brinkley to be his mother and motivated her to research disability education. Desmond was abandoned by his mother at a young age because her new husband didn't want to care for a child with a disability. mbu magazine 21
If you are going to serve people, you need to live among them.
slavery and prostitution. As she taught the children, she grew close to families in Winneba and Senya, a small fishing village and focal point for trafficking. Among the locals was a sweet child, Essibu, with an endearing bond to Brinkley. When Essibu called her “Mama” for the first time, Brinkley realized her relationship with Ghana had changed. No longer was she a teacher, volunteer or Westerner. She was a mother. Months later, she returned yet again to Ghana with a somewhat different mission: to be a mother returning to her children. She moved to the little village and purchased a shell of a house to become her own Ghanaian home. While Brinkley jokingly refers to her abode as a beachside home in Ghana, she lives like the locals when she’s there. She washes her clothes by hand among the women. Running water and electricity are never steadily available. While this lifestyle may appall many Westerners, Brinkley chooses to live with these conditions so she can be an authentic member of the community. “If you are going to serve people, you need to live among them,” said Brinkley. “If you live among them, how dare you live above them?” With each trip she becomes more integrated with the community and culture of Ghana. It’s her familiarity within the culture that allows her to truly understand what is needed to help the Ghanaians she loves. It also served as the motivating factor for her career in higher education. “I think higher education is important because if higher education can be a part of public good will, then it means that people 2 2 mbu magazine
1 within the community will be educated about the needs of community members,” said Brinkley. “Ghanaians can be taught and coached in a way that will motivate and equip them to be the change agents.” Ghana has equipped and motivated Brinkley to be a change agent within the United States. “When I was in Ghana, I realized that higher education could be a force for good,” said Brinkley. “I was on track to be an English professor, but I believed that if I got involved in the policy level of higher education I could help the marginalized and redirect resources so the forgotten can succeed.” Not only did her passion in higher education stem from Ghana, so did her focus on disabilities. Brinkley met Desmond in the orphanage of Senya. Because of a disability, he was abandoned by his parents and wasn’t given the attention he needed. Brinkley now considers Desmond as her own and loves him with a mother’s unconditional love. “Desmond called me to look at disability in Ghana,” said Brinkley. “I'm looking at systemic changes to improve the life of not only Desmond, but children like him.” During her time as a doctoral student,
1 When Brinkley is in St. Louis, she uses her Ghanaian mindset to prepare the next generation of higher education administrators to steer institutions with vision and integrity. 2 In 2012, Brinkley decided to live in Senya, a source village for trafficked children. 3 Joyce, Brinkley's dear friend, helps her learn how to wash heavily soiled white shirts by hand. Washing her clothes by hand–a laborious task–is a symbol that Brinkley is a true local and villager. 4 Brinkley's walk home from the orphanage in her village of Senya, Ghana.
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Brinkley focused on disability education within higher education at the same time as she was working with Desmond. Brinkley’s motivation in Ghana and the U.S. is to focus on the needs of people, not a cause. As a Christian, Brinkley believes each person should feel seen and valued. “God does see our need globally, but He also sees our needs individually,” said Brinkley. “I think that as an extension of Christ, people need to see that too. We need not just systemic change but to come beside people and just be a friend regardless.” Hand in hand with her work in higher education, Brinkley dreams of opening a home for pregnant women and young mothers. In Ghana, many young women become pregnant and drop out of school. This home would provide resources and home skills, but also education so the women can resume their classes within two years alongside their classmates. “It all stems back to my children in Ghana—I want them to have the chance to succeed and attend university—their dream,” said Brinkley. “Without someone there to promote that, it's not going to happen for them because they don't have the money to go. I want to be in the position to really help them. I want them to be able to carry out their dreams. They deserve the opportunity to have an opportunity.” It is here that once again her work within higher education and Ghana collide—it is one thing to try to change someone’s world, but even more powerful to be the catalyst so someone else will better the world. ■ mbu magazine 23
MY MOMENT to SHINE Senior biochemistry major Nicole Savant is dedicating her summer to create change in the lab of St. Louis start-up Arch Innotek. With people in today’s society wanting to eat quality, natural foods—and with so many sensitivities and allergens—the consumer demand for these types of ingredients is higher than ever. This local biotech company, directed by mbu alum Dr. Allen Kesselring (‘00), researches out of the Cortex Innovation Community and is dedicated to engineering microorganisms to produce natural ingredients that are beneficial to human and animal health. The goal is to produce not only food, but also animal feed, pharmaceutical products and cosmetics in a process that is clean, natural and affordable. ■
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Laying the Foundation If you ask the now dean of theology at Belmont University, faithful presence isn’t anything new at mbu. In fact, it was the investment of mbu faculty in his life nearly 30 years ago that continues to inform his work today. EDUCATION Ph.D., The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary M.A., University of Missouri-Kansas City M.Div., Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary B.A., Missouri Baptist College Additional Studies: Regent’s Park College, University of Oxford
Dr. William Skasick. Mrs. Saundra Lowes. Dr. Gordon Psalmonds. They are names etched in the history books of Missouri Baptist University and ones that Dr. Darrell Gwaltney (’83) will remember the rest of his life. Each of those names comes with specific stories, and on a Thursday afternoon inside mbu’s coffeehouse, Gwaltney, who graduated more than three decades ago from then Missouri Baptist College, shared some of those stories as if they had occurred yesterday. “mbu laid the foundation for my calling,” Gwaltney said. “I experienced faculty and staff who were concerned with me as a person and who wanted to see me realize God’s calling on my life.” He recalls spending hours huddled around Dr. Skasick’s desk reading Greek. There was the time he received an English composition paper back from Mrs. Lowes only to find it bleeding with red ink. She told him he could do better and, from that point forward, he did. Dr. Psalmonds, a religion professor, challenged him to take seriously his role as a Biblical scholar. It’s a challenge he still accepts daily. Psalmonds had assigned the students a topic for their doctrine research paper, and Gwaltney’s topic was “Satan and Demons.” He gave Psalmonds a bibliography, and Psalmonds gave it him back to him and said, “I don’t care what all these people say about Satan and demons, I want you to dig into the Bible and find out what it says.” Gwaltney did, and he learned what the Bible actually said on the topic instead of what he thought it said. He learned how to study the Bible from that paper and carries what he learned with him to this day. Since 2004, Gwaltney has served as dean for the College of Theology and Christian Ministry at Belmont University in Nashville,
Tenn. In 2012, Gwaltney was named the H. Franklin Paschall Chair of Biblical Studies and Preaching. He also serves as the director of the Moench Center for Church Leadership. Before his time at Belmont, Gwaltney served as a dean at Palm Beach Atlantic University. In addition, Gwaltney has served in ministry and leadership roles at churches throughout his career, primarily focusing on church redevelopment. “From the time that I answered the call to ministry, I have either been a full-time academic and part-time pastor or vice versa,” he said. “I enjoy helping people and churches discover what God wants them to be.” With such a distinguished career, it’s not surprising that Gwaltney received mbu’s Christian Service Award this past year. Looking back, Gwaltney sees the unlikely road that led him to where he is now, in many ways, began at MBC. After attending Jefferson College, Gwaltney transferred to MBC in 1980. He was a commuter who was also working part time as a pastor at a small Baptist church. He came to this institution with one primary goal: to become the first person in his family to receive a college degree. It was during his time at MBC that he discovered he might be selling himself short. “I was an average student with a 3.0 GPA, but the staff and faculty saw something in me and worked with me so that I could realize my potential,” Gwaltney said. It was a pivotal time in Gwaltney’s life, one that was filled with a community of people whose faithful presence in a young man proved to have a life-changing impact. He added, “People here molded me and showed me what it means to invest in others, and that is what I strive to do in my work.” ■
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Prepared to Shine These are some of the faces that have made up mbu during the past four years and counting. From playing percussion in countless musicals and concerts to researching body mass index technology in the health sciences lab, these new alumni called mbu home. Throughout the years, fellow students, staff and faculty have formed a community of support, propelling these alumni to where they are today. These mbu alumni now bring that faithful presence with them to the new communities where their life journeys continue.
1 1 JONNIE BROWN BACHELOR OF MUSIC EDUCATION “mbu gave me a great opportunity to see how different people with different backgrounds view Christianity. I think just having a diverse student body helped me gain a bigger picture of the world and brought a deeper connection to my faith.” 2 RAE GUICE B.A. IN CHRISTIAN MINISTRY “The leadership opportunities I have had forced me to grow up and learn how to be an effective leader in any role I may encounter.”
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3 3 TERINIA GREENE B.S. IN CRIMINAL JUSTICE “Being a Spartan means being able to give encouragement and support in a way that’s glorifying to God.” 4 ALLEN BERRYMAN B.M. IN MUSICAL THEATRE “My favorite memories are every single ‘circle time’ before theatre performances. It’s at those moments where I am reminded how special mbu is. The sense of community and fellowship is so strong and it’s because of how the professors pour into their students. So many people have joined the circle and left the circle, but they are always a part of the mbu theatre family.”
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5 ERIK GUSTAFSON B.A. IN EXERCISE SCIENCE “Being a Spartan is about embracing mbu’s mission to make a difference in the lives of others in the community around us. The community aspect of a small campus like mbu, even as a commuter, is one of the main reasons I chose this university. Through community outreach and partnerships at mbu, we have the opportunity to make a major contribution to our city.”
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Where Are They Now? Dr. Aubra Houchin
John Yehling
(B.A. in Natural Sciences ’76)
(B.A. In Communications ’02; M.S. in Education ’05)
lives in St. Charles, Mo., with his wife, Patty (‘76), and has two grown children, Jenny and Andy. He currently serves as a physician with his own private practice and recently became the medical director of occupational health at Barnes Jewish St. Peters Hospital.
Brad Pilkington
(B.A. in Music Education ’82) has served as the worship pastor at Spring Hills Baptist Church in Granville, Ohio, for 23 years. He resides in Newark, Ohio, with his wife, Paula, and their son, Jack. While at mbu, Brad enjoyed being the choir president and participating in the musicals.
Terry Funk (Follen)
(B.S. in Behavioral Science ’83) lives in Wildwood, Mo., where she serves as the eligibility specialist supervisor for the Family Support Division with the state of Missouri. She was a cheerleader while attending mbu.
Julie Hernandez (Schnarre/Chavez)
(B.S. in Elementary Education ’94; M.S. in Education ‘08) works as an ESL teacher for the University City school district. She lives in Florissant, Mo., with her husband and three kids. Her favorite memory of mbu is going to home athletic games.
Rev. Lyle Witcher (B.S. in Religion ’94)
resides in Thomasville, Ga., with his wife and two children. He was recently hired as the area director for the South Georgia Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Lyle’s favorite memories of mbu are being a Homecoming escort, being involved in Sigma Alpha Pi and hanging out in the lobby of the dorms.
Jeanne Larkins
(B.S. in Behavioral Science ’96) lives in Farmington, Mo., with her husband, Steve. She has three children—two are alumni—three stepchildren, and 15 grandchildren. She serves as a parole officer for the Missouri Department of Corrections.
Dr. Allen Kesselring
(B.S. in Chemistry and Mathematics ’00) lives in St. Louis with his wife. Allen recently celebrated his third anniversary at EKG Life Science Solutions—which partnered with mbu in 2016 to offer internship opportunities for students within the chemistry department.
Courtney Mathis (Britton)
(B.A. in Music ’02; M.S. in Education ’06) lives in Fenton, Mo., with her husband, Micah (’03), and three children. She and her husband are currently planting a new church in South County called Harvest Bible Chapel – St. Louis South.
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lives in St. Louis with his wife, Jessie, and their three children. He is the associate director of athletics and head coach for the men’s volleyball team—which won its second consecutive NAIA men’s volleyball national championship this year. Then, in addition, Yehling received the honor of NAIA Men’s National Coach of the Year. Yehling is also the director of E Sports, a new branch of athletics at mbu.
Jim Ott
(B.A. in Applied Management ’03 ; M.A. in Sport Management ’06) works in commercial roofing sales and project management for Fredric Roofing. He lives in Manchester, Mo., with his wife and three children. His favorite memories of mbu are competing on the wrestling team and Dr. Tom Smith’s coaching during a match against Maranatha Baptist University.
Ricky Todd
(B.S. in Kinesiology and Health Sciences ’06) works as a K-5 physical education teacher for Wentzville School District. He lives in St. Louis with his wife and four children. While attending mbu, he enjoyed playing men’s soccer.
prepared for success
Gregory Hitt (B.A. in History ’10) Hitt is getting to do a job that is a dream for many children—working for NASA. He is currently working toward his MBA and interning at NASA for the Pathways program at Johnson Space Center in Houston. As a space operations officer for the U.S. Army Reserve, Hitt utilizes experiences working in the Army ROTC and as a field artillery officer as he works to serve and protect this nation. As a 2010 graduate of mbu, Hitt attributes Dr. Andy Chambers, Dr. Keith Buetler and Dr. Terry Christophe for much of his success. “Each of these men helped shape me into
the man I have become today,” Hitt said. “They, along with my family, have given me the education and desire to go forth, do great things and glorify the Lord.” Whether it’s improving processes or encouraging productivity, Hitt said mbu equipped him to have a successful future.
“Much of my experiences are in government and having had courses related to such provided a lot of understanding into how things operate in today’s society. mbu’s diverse student body helped prepare me for the people and cultures I have encountered in the military and at NASA.” A story of shining on.
at Farmington Correctional Center. She is also a certified supervisor for Missouri Substance Abuse Credentialing Board and served as a mentor for College Bound, a St. Louis nonprofit organization that helps prepare students for college admissions and graduation.
Vicky Lauer (Kasten)
Dr. Joshua Mugg
lives in Wautoma, Wis., where she works as a veterinarian for Animart, LLC, focusing on calves, and consults various herd problems throughout Wisconsin. Her husband Adam is a dairy farmer. She gave birth to twins Abigail and Noah on May 23.
lives in Kokomo, Ind., with his wife and two children, Madeline and Corin. He recently accepted a permanent academic position at Indiana University Kokomo as a lecturer in philosophy. He continues to publish articles and present at conferences on the nature of human rationality, belief, faith and implicit biases.
(B.A. in Chemistry; B.S. in Biology ’07)
Chrisy Reeves (Veness) (B.S. in Elementary Education ’07)
lives in Saint Paul, Mo., with her husband and two children. She is a middle school teacher who fondly remembers her experiences with her fellow teacher-to-be students at mbu.
(B.A. in History; B.A. in Religion ’08)
Karen Salsman (Lauterbach) (M.S. in Education ’08)
resides in Desoto, Mo., where she works as a mental health professional and LPC
Meagan Berlin (Cullen) (B.S. in Behavioral Science ’10)
lives in Peoria, Ill., with her husband, Mark, where she currently serves as a child welfare specialist at The Center For Youth and Family Solutions working with abused and neglected children. Upon graduating, she began work
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prepared for success
Lisa Blazer (B.A. in Piano Performance ‘87) With more than 25 years of admissions and financial aid experience, Dr. Lisa Blazer works as the senior associate vice president for student affairs at the University of Texas at San Antonio. Blazer will serve as the chair of the National Association of Student Financial Aid (NASFAA) for the 2016-2017 school year. A part of the adjunct faculty as well, Blazer strives to impact her staff and students through servant leadership. Last year, mbu awarded Blazer with the Distinguished Alumnus Award at the 2015 homecoming alumni chapel, which honors a selection
with St. Louis Children’s Hospital, which inspired her to serve in missions abroad. She embarked on a month-long journey to Rustenburg, South Africa, in 2013 where she interned with programs Engage Africa and Lighthouse Orphanage.
of outstanding alumni who have made significant impacts in their communities and society. She also holds a Master of Arts and Administration in Organizational
Development and a Ph.D. in Education with an emphasis in organizational leadership from the University of the Incarnate Word. A story of shining on.
choral activities. He is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Music Education with emphasis in choral conducting from the University of Missouri. He also serves as a worship leader to First Baptist Church of Ellisville, Mo.
Victor Webber
John Shaw
(B.S. in Communications ’10) lives in Fenton, Mo., with his wife, Renee, and their daughter. He is the senior team lead at Kaldi’s Coffee in Chesterfield. While at mbu, he enjoyed participating in Resident Life sponsored activities.
Jordan and Kasey Cox (B.A. in Music Education ’10 and B.A. in Music Theatre ’10)
live in St. Louis with their two children, Noah and Jobi. Kasey was appointed in the fall 2015 semester as a full-time instructor of communications and theatre from an adjunct position at mbu. Jordan was introduced in the spring 2016 semester as mbu’s director of 32 mbu magazine
Jennifer Shell (Kemp) (B.S. in Behavioral Science ’10)
resides in Fredericktown, Mo., with her husband, Jonathan. She is an intensive level case manager at Community Counseling Center. Her favorite memories while at mbu include the trips and games with the women’s softball team.
(B.S. in Computer Science ’10) serves as a program support assistant with the National Cemetery Administration. He lives in Florissant, Mo., with his wife and five children. He is currently pursuing his MBA at mbu with a goal to take on an executive management position with the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Hayley Barnfield (Robinson) (B.A. in Elementary Education ’12)
lives in Lookout Mountain, Ga., where she has been hired as the student development office coordinator. She is married to Isaiah Barnfield, and they have a puppy named Rocky.
Laura Bliggenstorfer (Carter) (MBA ’12)
resides in St. Peters, Mo., with her husband, Eric, and their three children. She serves as the manager of a Disney Store.
Danielle Berges
Lisa Smith
lives in Eureka, Mo., where she works as a teacher and lives with her husband. She recently gave birth to their first child, a daughter.
lives in St. Louis with her husband, where she serves as a teaching and learning director of human resources for Lifeguards Unlimited.
(M.A. in Teaching ’13)
Amy Childers
(B.S. in Child Development ’12) lives in Lexington, S.C., where she serves as children’s minister to Willow Ridge Church in Lexington, S.C. Childers oversees all things pertaining to ministering to children, ages birth to 5th grade, and their families. During her senior year at mbu, she joined the staff of The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Ala., where she oversaw Wednesday Night Kid’s Discipleship.
Bryanna Hartmann (Hampton)
(B.A. in Communication Studies; B.P.S. in Public Relations ’12) lives in St. Charles, Mo., with her husband, Joseph Hartmann (‘14). In her time at mbu, she enjoyed serving as president and vice president for student activities, managing editor of Timeline Online and producer for Timeline student news broadcast. She recently accepted a new position as digital media specialist for St. Charles County Government.
Holly Vardeleon (Robinson) (B.A. in Elementary Education ’12)
lives in St. Louis, with her husband, Kevin. She works as a lead teacher at Sunshine Ministries Preschool. Her favorite memory of mbu was attending Student Activities events.
Lydia Vilkansas
(B.S. in Elementary Education ’12) lives in Owensville, Mo., where she works as a special education teacher at Autumn Hill State School.
Brian Geldmacher
(B.S. in Secondary Education ’13) lives in St. Louis, and is an eighth grade teacher at Salem Lutheran School. He is married with three children.
Lydia Wegener (Keller) (B.S. in Accounting ’13)
lives in St. Louis and serves as manager of Missouri Baptist University’s Sports and Recreation Complex. She was recently married to Michael in June 2016.
Jamie Patterson (McLean) (B.S. Management ‘13; M.B.A ’15)
(B.P.S. in Teaching & Learning ‘14)
Elisha Stout
(M.A. in Counseling ’14) is a mental health specialist at Crider Health Center. She resides in Pacific, Mo., with her husband and daughter.
Dr. David Collum (Ed.S. ’15)
lives in Kirkwood, Mo., with his wife, Genise Doss Collum. Dr. Collum is currently an assistant professor of natural sciences and education at mbu, where he is also involved in data analysis and leads research on simulation based learning. This spring, Collum presented at AACTE, SITE and CAEP conferences on simulation school research.
is married with one daughter and lives in Glen Carbon, Ill. She recently accepted a position at Washington University working as a regional associate in major gifts, alumni and development in February 2016.
Paula Lang (Witt) (MBA. ’14)
lives in St. Clair, Mo., and was married last year. She works as a loan officer and serves as the Sullivan Area Chamber of Commerce board president and a church treasurer.
Andre Loggins
Molly Eime (Carver) (B.A. in Public Relations ’15)
lives in Pacific, Mo., with her husband, Jerry. She is a communications assistant at Junior Chamber International (JCI). She enjoyed being a part of mbu Timeline while in school.
(B.S. in Exercise Science ’14) resides in St. Ann, Mo., where he works as wellness specialist at a nursing and rehabilitation facility that started out as an internship for his degree and turned into a rewarding career.
Brooke Murphy (Kassing) (B.S. in Education ’15)
works as a verifications specialist at a healthcare clinic in St. Peters, Mo. She is married to Mike and has a 3-year-old daughter. While at mbu, she played for the women’s basketball team and enjoyed hanging out at The Perk with her friends.
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prepared for success
Arthur Bishop (B.A. in Religion, ‘09) Powering the technology of a pivotal church in St. Louis is mbu alum Arthur Bishop. Alongside his wife, Faith (‘08), the duo joined the Journey because of a shared belief in the transformation of St. Louis by the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Bishop serves as the Director of Technology for the church, which includes six locations. Bishop equips the pastoral staff and congregation to use technology to gain a greater understanding of the Gospel through the word of God. He daily pairs his academic preparation in biblical studies with his role at The Journey.
“On a daily basis my biblical studies impact my decisions with technology--from deciding which biblical software we are going to use to helping align a member’s understanding of a concept like ‘Docetism,’” said Bishop. Before serving at the Journey, Bishop
Robert VanderMyde
Ashley Chancellor (Reever)
lives in Festus, Mo., with his wife and serves as a Batterer Intervention Program (BIP) facilitator. He also was recently appointed as treasurer of Precious Cargo, a nonprofit which provides safe transportation and counseling services for children in the midst of parental conflict. He is pursing his M.A. in Counseling at mbu.
lives in Hazelwood, Mo. and serves as chief financial officer to Urshan Graduate School of Theology. She recently got married in June.
(B.S. in Behavioral Science ’15)
Amanda Wilson (M.A. in Counseling ’15)
lives in St. Ann, Mo., with her husband, David, and two daughters, Noelle and Norah. Upon graduating from mbu, she began serving Normandy Schools Collaborative as a professional school counselor at the Normandy Kindergarten Center.
(B.A. in Business ‘07; MBA ’16)
Katie Green
(B.A. in Sports Management ‘15; M.S. in Sport Management ’16) lives in DuQuoin, Ill., and serves as a sports information graduate assistant at mbu.
Betty Whitley
(B.S. in Management ‘11; MBA ’16) lives in Wood River, Ill., where she works as a management analyst.
worked at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary while pursuing a master’s degree studying classical, ancient Mediterranean and Near Eastern Studies and Archaeology. A story of shining on.
U PC OM I N G E V E N TS
10/01/16 Spartan Preview Day
10/28/16 Strings Concert
11/08/16 mbu Media Talk
11/29/16 Hanging of the Green
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the cru x o f the i ssu e
“But if anyone has the world’s goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God’s love abide in him?” -1 John 3:17 Amen. mbu magazine 3 5
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