NCU Magazine Fall 2020 Issue

NCU Magazine Fall 2020

North Central University

Administration

President

Scott Hagan, Ph.D.

Executive VP

Andrew Denton, Ph.D.

VP, Academic Affairs

Greg Leeper

VP, Spiritual Life and Student Development

Doug Graham ’86, D.Min.

Editorial

Nancy Cawley Zugschwert, ’19 M.A., Editor

Abby VandenLangenberg, Graphic Designer

Photography

Erica Hanson ’13

Abby VandenLangenberg

Unless noted, photos are by NCU Marketing

Contributors

Daniel Appel

Jenny Collins

Victoria Cortese ’20

Tracey Finck, M.A.

Tabby (Wilson ’89) Finton

Erica Hanson ’13

Judy (Oftedahl ’77) Jones

Matt Lehman

Aimee (Perrin ’97) Robertson

Travis Whipple, M.S.

Contact

Office of Communications communications@northcentral.edu

612.343.5001

Alumni Relations alumni@northcentral.edu

612.343.4743

Admissions

admissions@northcentral.edu

800.289.6222

NCU Magazine is produced by the Offices of Communications and Marketing and distributed free of charge to alumni, donors, and friends of North Central University.

NCU Mission

North Central University is a Christ-centered, Bible-based, Pentecostal school with a commitment to academic excellence that prepares students to fulfill biblical models of leadership and ministry throughout the world.

In this issue News

Letter from the president 90 Years of Optimism and Pressure

Never has history been our friend like it is today at NCU. The brick structures and the black and white photos that we see adorning our hallways are emblems that emotionally secure us to the promise that even in our current social uncertainties, God has everything under His control. As we celebrate in this issue, 90-years of God’s goodness and keeping power over this institution, I want to describe a brief story from my own “black and white” era of life.

As a young boy growing up in the church, I would best describe myself as a peripheral bystander (or bysitter). I was a seated fixture on the wood pew next to mom during Sunday night church (kid’s programming was scarce). My mom was a delightful combination of children’s pastor and police officer. I would best describe our Sunday-night relationship as a series of snacks and whacks. Her main job as a Christian was to keep her kid occupied and quiet while the pastor preached. We played a tense game of coloring and fidgeting, but somehow our relationship survived. Mom was commended for her well-behaved children, and bits and pieces of the Bible started finding their way inside my tiny pre-adolescent soul.

One of those Bible verses, maybe because it was so often repeated, was 2 Timothy 3:1. From my earliest childhood awareness, I remember the preacher quoting, “But realize this, in the last days difficult times will come.” This verse, penned under inspiration of the Holy Spirit by the Apostle Paul to his protégé Timothy, has always shaped my outlook on life—that the days ahead will always be tougher than the days that lie behind. Knowing this was predicted by the Lord has always brought me a sense of relief. It’s kept me from being caught off guard and disoriented by world events that transcend my control—such as the ones we are living in currently. This word used by Paul, “difficult,” comes from the Greek word chalepos, which simply means, “days that are hard to take.” Paul goes on in the text to present a host of theological conditions that scaffold his use of the word chalepos. He mainly paints the collapse of human relationships as the pre-conditions for Christ’s return and rescue of the church. In this passage, Paul provides a list of devastating last-days traits—people begin devouring their neighbor in rampant displays of lovelessness and lawlessness.

The world described by Paul has always sounded futuristic to me—until now. The cultural conditions created by COVID-19, racial unrest, and the national election have made the futuristic tones of 2 Timothy 3 sound present-day. I’m also left to wonder if this moment is bigger than our 90-year testimony in Minneapolis can handle. Are these pressures more than the Depression, World War II, and the Viet Nam era all wrapped up as one? My optimistic answer is found in the wonderful news that I learned sitting next to Mom. 2 Timothy 3 also states, “But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus” (14-15).

As you look through this issue highlighting 90-years of revival, miracle acquisitions, and the historical testimonies of alumni, stand firmly on the predictions and promises of God’s Word. Everything we see happening today was foreseen by the Lord long before 1930. Let’s commit ourselves to the “sacred writings,” and let us “continue” faithfully forward in God’s remarkable story called North Central.

Looking forward,

President Scott Hagan

COVID-19 endurance, innovation, survival

After the sudden shift to a virtual learning environment last spring in the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic in Minnesota, North Central University students clearly communicated that they wanted to return to campus for in-person learning in the fall.

Throughout the summer, teams of faculty, staff, and administrators explored options and made plans to create a campus that would be as “COVID-safe” as possible. With protocols, procedures, and new practices in place, the fall semester commenced on Aug. 26, ushering in a dynamic era of in-person, online, and hybrid instruction.

It’s a different campus experience, but everyone is working together to make it work. Our protocols for quarantine and isolation in response to COVID-exposure or positive tests have helped mitigate the spread, and community members have become adept at social-distancing, mask-wearing, and checking in daily via the #CampusClear health app.

These photos help tell the story of campus life in a pandemic.

1. #CampusClear app helps the NCU community check in with their daily health status. 2. Masked students greet newcomers outdoors on Super Saturday. 3. The class photo for incoming students shifts from the library steps to the soccer field due to pandemic protocols.

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I survived COVID-19

By Skylar Burns ’22

When I tested positive for COVID-19, a simple cycle of sickness altered three weeks of my life drastically and changed my perspective on adversity.

I’m learning that drastic changes aren’t always immediate events in which everything is now different. Sometimes drastic changes show up in small losses that happen slowly. COVID was like that for me. The effects showed up in the little things—in the time I lost hanging out with friends while I was in isolation, in the classes I missed, and in the physical strength that my body is now working to recover. I am now a statistic, a percentage, a number. I am now a part of the “COVID Club.”

I’m comforted by the treatment I was given here at North Central University. The staff and faculty went above and beyond to make sure I felt safe and comfortable and provide for needs. My professors gave me deadline extensions, and I was able to make a full recovery without feeling as if I were falling behind.

After my extended isolation, I was tempted to question if it was worth it to be on campus, but I began to remember why I came to college in the first place. There is only one time in my life I can have the full college experience. Freshman movein day, roommates, bro-sis floor events, Homecoming weekend, staying up until 4 a.m. in Clay Commons (even though I have an 8 a.m. class)—these are all moments that make up my college experience. Coronavirus is one of those moments. Although very annoying at times, this is what life is now. In 50 years, I’ll be able to tell my children and grandchildren how I survived COVID-19 way back in the year 2020.

The experience brought me to ask myself important questions: What are you going to do and what are you going to allow yourself to do, think, or say regarding COVID-19? Are you going to complain, allow yourself to catch an attitude, and share your feelings with the world? Or are you going to find the joy in the little things, choose to have a better outlook, and not allow your emotions to rule you?

I refuse to come out of this season with nothing to show for it but wrinkles on my forehead from frowning all the time! I want to emerge from this season as a better leader, daughter, and friend.

There are two sides of history in the making here, and I’ve been given the opportunity to choose which side to be on: allow coronavirus to win, or rise up and do something about it—the latter sounds like a better story.

Skylar Burns (pictured above) is a sophomore Interdisciplinary Studies Major. She is a Discipleship Leader, a member of Worship Live, and serves as a Student Assistant in the Office of Communications.

Partners for Progress pivots to virtual campaign

By Aimee (Perrin ’97) Robertson, Executive Director of Advancement

The global pandemic’s reach leaves few stones unturned when it comes to the impact on large events, including the 53rd Annual Partners for Progress dinner. It became painfully clear there was no way we could meet in person. We thus launched the first-ever, five-day virtual Partners for Progress Campaign! Our focus shifted as the university continued to absorb costs—more than $350,000— associated with making our campus safe and productive for our NCU community.

A series of five videos demonstrating life at NCU during a global pandemic brought a tremendous response from alumni, friends, employees, and students. The campaign has generated more than $100,000 to put a significant dent in our COVID expenses.

Frank J. Lindquist started North Central during The Great Depression and NCU has thrived despite many trials. We are confident that even during a global pandemic, the Lord will have His way and NCU’s mission will move faithfully forward.

NCU Open delayed but not derailed

COVID-19 caused the delay of the 27th Annual NCU Open. Rather than hitting the links in late May as planned, 92 golfers flexed their schedules to participate in the event on Aug. 10 at Rush Creek Golf Club in Maple Grove. NCU’s new Athletics Director, Travis Whipple, M.S., hosted the event. Also new this year was the addition of annual corporate sponsorships. Executive Director of Advancement Aimee (Perrin ’87) Robertson said, “We are so grateful to our Presenting Corporate Sponsor, The Wealth Group, for partnering with us to make the NCU Open a fabulous day for everyone involved. We’re also grateful to our President’s Circle sponsors: DLR Group, I.A.G. Commercial, and McGough; and our University Partners: Welsh Construction and Wexford Commercial Construction. We could not have pulled off such a great event without their support!”

Pictured (L to R): Donovan Morris , Reggie Dabbs, Karen Hagan, Scott Hagan, Jeff Grenell

NCU names first George Floyd Scholarship winners

By Nancy Cawley Zugschwert, ’19 M.A.

Derek Burgin of Moline, Illinois, has been selected as the first recipient of North Central University’s George Floyd Memorial Scholarship. The scholarship, named to recognize a pivotal moment in our city’s and our nation’s story, provides a way to invest in a new generation of young Black Americans poised and ready to be leaders in our community and our country.

In a letter of recommendation for Burgin, Derrick Michaels, Youth Pastor at Mighty Fortress Community Church (Moline), said, “Derek has always had a heart for others. He has been involved with many outreach- and communitybased operations. He has helped feed the homeless at our local shelter; he has walked neighborhoods picking up trash to serve others. He always puts others before himself.”

Defying statistics

Burgin did not have an easy childhood. “During my youth, both my parents were never really in the picture,” Burgin said. “My mom struggled with a bad past, and my dad’s plain absence in my life drove me to bounce from house to house; however, when I was four years old, my grandparents took me in and have been my ‘parents’ ever since.”

Michaels noted, “Derek’s story is remarkable. Statistics say he should not be going to college. Statistics say he should be in trouble or even in prison. Statistics say he should not be applying for this scholarship. Yet he has persevered despite his story. Raised by grandparents who love him, he hasn’t been handed anything and has had to work his tail off to get what he has. I believe that given an opportunity, he will be a world changer.”

Burgin was thrilled when he learned he had received the scholarship. “My heart was pounding,” he exclaimed. “I felt a rush of excitement. I honestly feel like everything is going to start with this scholarship,” referring not just to his scholarship but also the scholarships at institutions across this country. “I was talking to President Hagan, and

there are 28 other universities, each one having at least one winner, each one representing a new era of black scholars.”

Leaders of tomorrow

As a senior in high school last year, Burgin started a new club called Minority Leaders of Tomorrow, aimed at bringing together African American and Hispanic students, focusing on being the future and striving to be excellent scholars.

The experience of starting a club provided tremendous leadership opportunities. “I learned that it’s hard being a leader,” Burgin exclaimed. “There is a lot of pressure— trying to get things rolling, coming up with new ideas and new processes, finding funding, and getting the word out.” But he found the experience highly rewarding and looks forward to being part of groups and initiating things at NCU.

Burgin is now at North Central as a freshman majoring in Psychology and minoring in Youth, Children, and Family Ministries. He wants to be a counselor at his high school in Moline. “I loved my teachers. I loved my counselors and my administrative leaders,” he said. “They supported me for every dream that I had, and I want to be that support system for someone else.”

Scholarship finalists

In addition to awarding Burgin a full, four-year scholarship, the selection committee awarded three finalists—returning students Justice Cobb, Micah Jones, and Grace Renstrom—one-year awards of $1,000 each.

Burgin is thrilled to be at North Central and is grateful for the donors who made the scholarship possible. In his scholarship essay, Burgin wrote, “In the long term, I believe everyone can put their mark in this world, whether it be big or small, and I believe North Central is the key to mine.”

To make a gift to the George Floyd Scholarship fund visit northcentral.edu/ georgefloyd.

Micah Jones

Justice Cobb

Grace Renstrom

Derek Burgin

NCU Dining Center phase 1 renovations completed

North Central University’s new food services partner, Sodexo, opened a remodeled servery and dining center this fall. The brand-new entrance on Elliot Avenue ushers students into a culinary experience with multiple make-to-order stations. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the capacity of the dining center is temporarily reduced, but after restortion to full capacity and additional renovations scheduled for next year, the facility will seat up to 400.

Looking good, NCU: snapshots of campus upgrades

1. CLC lobby. 2. New cafeteria entrance. 3. Mensing student lounge.

4. First floor Mensing hallway. 5. New student banners in gym.

6. New LED screens around campus; picured here: Atrium.

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Colin Miller (center right), with neighbors at African Immigrants Community Services, served as team lead for a project providing student-built computers to the AICS community center.

Computer project provides skills, serves neighbors

By Nancy Cawley Zugschwert, ’19 M.A.

This past spring, Director of the School of Technology Colin Miller, MAR, had students in his Computer Architecture class build computers. Miller planned to use them for the School of Technology.

At the same time, the coronavirus pandemic’s impact on public spaces was causing significant challenges for people who depend on libraries for access to technology. Bill Tibbetts, MBA, Dean of the College of Business and Technology (COBAT), suggested that perhaps the computers could be donated to address that need in the community.

Great idea

COBAT faculty reached out to Mohammed Amin Kahin, Executive Director of Milestone Community Development, who worked with North Central to find an organization that would benefit from the computers. In August, NCU students and faculty delivered three custom-made computers to African Immigrants Community Services (AICS), an organization serving East African refugees in the Twin Cities. The computers are now helping families who need technology access for their children’s education.

Kahin is grateful for the partnership and North Central’s community outreach. “Partnering with North Central University was a great work,” Kahin said. “The computers are changing people’s lives, giving access to people who don’t have computers in their homes, especially during the

COVID-19 crisis, helping their education, livelihoods, and betterment. I appreciate North Central for partnering within our community; they have always been a champion for great things.”

“Dean Tibbetts came up with the vision to donate them to the Somali community,” Miller said, “and it turned out to be a more rewarding experience, providing an opportunity for my students to produce something that will be a blessing to families in need.”

Better than a book or lecture

Sophomore Garret Olesen, a Management Information Systems major and one of the captains on the PC build project, said, “This project … gave me a chance to gain more experience with building a PC, while also learning how to edit and form a comprehensive how-to-build video. The project benefited my learning and understanding of PCs, and I gained more than I could have from a book or a lecture.” Olesen also appreciated the opportunity to reach out to the community. “I’m very thankful that the work we did in class was also a benefit to someone else’s life.”

For a community developer like Kahin, North Central’s neighborly focus is powerful. “I sincerely appreciate North Central University for being a model to all other universities for how accessible they are to our community,” Kahin said. “If every university would contribute to our neighborhoods and communities in this way, things would be better.”

Student-led chapel a 20-year NCU tradition

Student-led chapel began at North Central 20 years ago when Larry Bach, now Dean of the College of Fine Arts, had an idea that solved three problems. “We had our biggest influx of music and worship students at that time, big growth,” Bach said. “But we had just one Worship Live group and One Accord—just two groups, yet we had all these students who were not getting opportunities to lead worship.”

Record enrollment in fall 2000 was also causing nearcapacity crowds in daily chapel, and many days, there were not enough seats in Lindquist Sanctuary for all the students and faculty!

Bach noted there were also limited opportunities for students to get preaching experience outside of homiletics classes, so he reached out to Jim Allen, head of the Pastoral Studies area, and proposed student-led chapel to solve all three problems.

The two professors decided to collaborate and they started an alternative service on Mondays in Centennial Hall led by student musicians and student preachers. Over the years, it has been known by the names, “Sanctuary,” “Entry,” and “Render”—its current name— and moved from Centennial Hall to the small chapel (Anderson) to the Lindquist Sanctuary.

Render is now planned and executed completely by students. “The goal of Render is to equip and empower as many students as possible according to the calling that God has placed on their lives,” explained NCU junior Ryan Sparks, this year’s Render Director. “This is through chapel every Monday, but it extends further than that. We have implemented a leadership podcast, preaching workshops, and many more opportunities for students to learn and grow.”

New NCU professor receives prestigious fellowship

M. John Patrick O’Connor, Ph.D., the newest faculty addition in the College of Church Leadership, has received a Postdoctoral Fellowship placement at North Central University as Assistant Professor of New Testament and Louisville Institute Postdoctoral Scholar.

According to a press release from Louisville Institute (Louisville-institute.org), “The Louisville Institute’s Postdoctoral Fellowship provides fellowships to support two-year, visiting professorship at a North American theological school, college or a university. As part of the Institute’s Vocation of the Theological Educator Initiative, Louisville Postdoctoral Fellows are accompanied by an academic mentor and pastoral mentor. Louisville Fellows also participate in a peer cohort that meets six times over two years.”

O’Connor is thrilled about the opportunity this provides him as a scholar. “The fellowship places me in an ecumenical cohort with brilliant theological educators around America—recent doctoral graduates teaching at places like Luther Seminary, Vanderbilt, Baylor, Wake Forest, Emory, and Garrett Evangelical—to discuss the future of theological education. I am excited to learn from others and to share my own unique experience teaching from a Pentecostal perspective at NCU.”

Allen Tennison, Ph.D., Dean of the College of Church Leadership, sees great opportunities for O’Connor, North Central, and students through this fellowship. “His postdoctoral fellowship award highlights both Dr. O’Connor’s scholarly contribution and potential as well as the value of a North Central education with faculty like Dr. O’Connor teaching in the classroom,” Tennison said. “This award was given to only the best young scholars in the nation.”

Judah Smith

Hadley Schlafman

NCU announces new dean and faculty appointments

Bryan Davis, Ph.D.

Missionary in Residence

Bryan Davis ’95 has served as a missionary to Senegal since 1996. He worked in French and Wolof, the local language of northern Senegal; helped start the second largest private school system in Senegal; taught at the University of NebraskaLincoln; and specializes in studying leadership in the African context. He holds a Ph.D. and master’s degree from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

Marci Exsted, MSW

Social Work

Marci Exsted ’16 has a passion for communities, and her first field placement was working with people experiencing chronic homelessness. She served as an Adolescent Health Research Fellow and on a program implementation team at the University of Minnesota; and has served as a care coordinator and policy advocate. She holds a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Minnesota.

Richard Nho, Ph.D. Biology

Richard Nho was most recently Assistant Professor in the Department of Medicine and Research Associate and Postdoc at the University of Minnesota. Research interests include the underlying mechanisms of lung fibrosis and developing an effective treatment using novel nanocarriers; he has taught health science-related courses across multiple disciplines. He holds his Ph.D. from the University of Manchester, and a bachelor’s degree from Yonsei University in Seoul, South Korea.

JP O’Connor, Ph.D.

Biblical Studies

M. John-Patrick (“JP”) O’Connor has taught courses at Princeton Theological Seminary, The College of New Jersey, and Northwest University. His current book project explores the moral dimensions of the Gospel of Mark, especially in comparison to early Jewish and Greco-Roman biographies. Prior to seminary, he worked as a pastor at a church plant in Lakewood, Washington. He holds a Ph.D. and an M.Div. from Princeton Theological Seminary

Phil Zarns, Ph.D.

Global Studies

Phil Zarns ’00 has served the past two years as Missionary in Residence and is now Assistant Professor and Director of the School of Global Studies (previously ICS). Working with AGWM and the Swedish Pentecostal Movement for over 15 years, Phil focuses on pioneering university and young adult work, encouraging new faith communities in all global contexts. He holds a Ph.D. and an M.A. from Assemblies of God Theological Seminary.

Joshua Edmon, M.A.

Dean for Multicultural Development and Spiritual Life

Joshua Edmon has served in higher education in admissions at Trinity International University and as an Educational Outreach Specialist with the TRIO program at Joliet Junior College. He has served in several pastoral positions at Chicago Embassy Church. He holds two master’s degrees, in Urban Ministry and Christian Studies, from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School.

NOW ENROLLING FOR FALL 2021 Master of Arts in Biblical Theology

The North Central University College of Graduate and Professional Education is pleased to announce enrollment is now open for the new Online Master of Arts in Biblical Theology (MABT) for fall 2021. The MABT was approved by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and is the newest addition to North Central’s graduate studies offerings.

According to LaToya Burrell, Dean of Graduate Education and Accreditation, the MABT is designed for ministers and laypersons who want to improve their academic understanding of Scripture for personal fulfillment, increase their effectiveness in vocational ministry, or prepare for doctoral study.

Upon completing this program, graduates will be able to analyze, interpret, and explain the meaning of Scripture; engage major themes within biblical scholarship from a Pentecostal/Renewalist perspective; conduct meaningful academic research in biblical studies; and produce a scholarly thesis that makes a distinctive contribution and follows the conventions of biblical scholarship.

The MABT is a 36-credit degree offered in an engaging online format and is ideal for working adults. The program can be completed in two to three years, depending on the number of courses taken per semester.

The MABT is the second master’s degree program offered by NCU. The Master of Arts in Strategic Leadership (MASL), accredited in 2014, has seen steady growth in online and in-person enrollment, and recently introduced three new tracks for more specialized study.

New Director of Athletics, Recreation & Wellness named

North Central University named Travis Whipple, M.S., as its new Director of Athletics, Recreation & Wellness. Whipple joins the Rams after accumulating a wealth of experience in athletic administration within the NCAA Division II and Division I ranks. He most recently served at Oral Roberts University (NCAA Division I) as General Manager for the Athletic Department. Whipple has also held positions with Texas A&M, University of Arkansas, University of Illinois, and Winona State University.

In addition to his experience as an administrator, Whipple also brings a championship pedigree from his collegiate basketball playing career. Whipple was a member of the two-time national champion (2006, 2008) Winona State University (WSU) men’s basketball team.

North Central Executive Vice President Dr. Andrew Denton, Ph.D., stated, “Travis is an experienced athletic administrator dedicated to enhancing the student-athlete experience. He has a tremendous background as a championship-level college athlete at Winona State University, followed by leadership roles at other universities. These experiences have prepared him to step into the Athletic Director role at NCU to build upon the great foundation and lead Rams Athletics to another level at the institution.”

Before his stellar playing career at WSU, Whipple was a standout in the Minneapolis area as a prep. He is excited about the prospect of returning to the area where athletics first took root for him: “My family and I are thrilled to be joining the Rams and coming home to Minneapolis. Our department will strive to be a great partner in advancing the mission of NCU and strengthening our community. NCU is a place where people want to be! I look forward to working with our student-athletes, coaches, and staff as we build a premier program of excellence committed to developing passionate champions. Go Rams!”

Article credit: ncurams.com

Rams Athletics headquarters in Chicago Hall gives a bold welcome to current and future Rams athletes.

Taking the lead in an unusual season

By Travis Whipple, M.S., Director of Athletics, Recreation & Wellness

“When you’ve done everything you can do, that’s when God will step in and do what you can’t do.”

2 Corinthians 12:10

I feel so fortunate to lead our Department of Athletics, Recreation, and Wellness during this unique season. I have been on campus since mid-July. During that time, we have experienced 100+ changes to athletic schedules, seasons, legislation, and rules relating to COVID-19. Yet there is no place that I would rather be, and unquestionably there’s no other campus where I would want to experience this!

I appreciate the support of our generous donors, alumni, friends, and university leaders. Our department’s mission is “Developing Passionate Champions,” which will always be our focus—with or without competition. Our goal is to develop all student-athletes to their full potential.

On the opposite side of that equation, we want to build a program that competes at the highest level possible so that our Rams can leave here as champions. In the middle of it all, we have this incredible opportunity at NCU to center the experience around faith, and that is where the passionate piece comes in.

I remain optimistic about our position to compete safely very soon. Please stay connected with us online at ncurams.com and follow our social media accounts for the latest information.

Student gratitude

Overall, I’m incredibly proud of the student-athlete response this year. The verse above was sent to me by a student. That same student walked into my office just days after an NCAA mandate forced the cancellation of their season, handed

me a card, and said, “Thank you.” The note contained a powerful verse to remind us that the best is yet to come. The student also thanked us for opening our campus, providing athletic opportunities, and more.

I’m inspired by this particular student—and all of our student-athletes—for their incredible resolve, GRIT*, and determination this year. Here is a quick glimpse of various NCU Rams activities this fall:

» Student-athletes, coaches, and teams have served our campus community by delivering several thousand meals to students in quarantine or isolation due to COVID-19.

» Each team has participated in off-season leadership development and training as well as regular devotionals.

» Our 200 student-athletes earned a cumulative GPA of 3.30.

» Student-athletes participated in 100+ days of practice, training, or small group instruction.

» We’ve maintained a commitment to enhancing the student-athlete experience and positively representing North Central University in all that we do.

The future is bright for NCU Athletics! Please reach out if we can ever be of assistance or service to you. We have a tremendous group of student-athletes, coaches, and staff members who work hard, and we know when we have done everything we can do, God will step in. Go Rams!

*GRIT: Greatness, Respect, Innovation, Tradition

Recent renovations include a complete overhaul of NCU locker rooms. The men’s locker room is pictured here.

CELEBRATING 90 YEARS: ‘YOU MUST BEGIN A BIBLE SCHOOL’

The 1930s in the United States began with an historic low: more than 15 million Americans–fully one-quarter of all wage-earning workers–were unemployed. Families scraped and struggled to get by. The stock market crash of 1929 that sent the entire American economic system into a tailspin was less than one year in the rearview mirror when a Minnesota pastor made good on a challenge: “You must begin a Bible school.”

In 1929, Lilian B. Yeomans, M.D., a doctor and popular Bible teacher and writer, issued that prophetic challenge to Rev. Frank Lindquist. “Your young people need the training they can only get in a Bible school,” she told the pastor.

Lindquist was called in 1924 to begin a ministry at a church in Minneapolis that had 41 members on the roll. By 1933, the Minneapolis Gospel Tabernacle had about 400 members and an average Sunday evening attendance of 650 people.

North Central beginnings

Even though he was focused on growing his church, Pastor Lindquist agreed with Yeomans about the need for a Bible college. And what Yeomans may not have known was that the idea had already been on the hearts of many leaders in the district. Lindquist worked in partnership with the Assemblies of God North Central District Council, and in fall 1930—one year after Yeomans’ bold challenge—the “Bible school” came to life.

The year 1933 saw the first group of graduates, who felt it was important to chronicle the founding of their beloved

school in their yearbook, “The Archive.”

Travel back in time with us to hear North Central’s origin story in the words of these first students.

Class chronicles

“It is truly remarkable the way the omnipotent hand of God has moved in the establishment of the North Central Bible Institute. For years the leading men of our district had seen the need for an institution where young men and women could receive training for the service of the Lord. Prayers had ascended to God on behalf of such an undertaking, and in the end, as always, the prayers of righteous men availed.

“In the fall of 1930, fine quarters were obtained in the beautiful, new Gospel Tabernacle in Minneapolis, and the North Central Bible Institute was opened, dedicated to the teaching of God’s Word to those zealous to enter His Service.

“A red-letter day arrived on the first of October in 1930 when some of the earth’s finest, redeemed by the blood of Jesus, sanctified by His grace, filled with the Holy Spirit young folk began to pour into Minneapolis from the north, the south, the east, and the west to form the pioneer class of the school. They came from all walks of life, and they included teachers, clerks, farmers, and office girls. The strangers found a welcome in the newly erected Gospel Tabernacle.

“Monday the sixth was the opening school day. The students

gathered in the main auditorium for a brief time of getting acquainted. In the evening, they were given a reception by the Christ Ambassadors of the Tabernacle.

“Due to the fact that the downstairs rooms were still under construction, classes were held interchangeably in the main auditorium, the balcony, and in the choir loft. The carpenters were still working, and the noise of electric drills, the pounding of hammers, and the sawing of lumber made it very hard to hear or to concentrate.

“At the first organization of the class, the following officers were elected to constitute the Student Council: President — Earl Adamson, Vice-President—Dorothy Wead, Secretary— Katherine Felthouse, Councilmen—Clarence Beem and Helen Anderson.

“November 24th was a day of great rejoicing. Then the students recited for the first time in the new classrooms that were to be their permanent home.

… [Those who returned for the third year] were kept busy by the daily lessons, with home Bible Classes, in preaching at missions, and in visitation work. We pray they may ever

remain the faithful foundation stones of the North Central Bible Institute.”

A look to the future

In the same 1933 yearbook, NCBI President Rev. Frank Lindquist shared a prophetic reflection: “If the Lord tarries, I am sure the Institute will outgrow its present quarters in the Minneapolis Gospel Tabernacle.”

Little did Lindquist know how true that statement would be.

It may have been an unlikely—and by some standards unwise—time to start a school. But little is much when God is in it, and the impact of Frank Lindquist’s obedience in founding NCBI is felt to this day.

J. Lindquist

From 1933 Archive: beginning class and faculty

Sources

History.com Editors. (n.d.). The 1930s. Retrieved September 2020, from History.com: https://www.history.com/topics/great-depression/1930s North Central Bible Institute. (1933). The Archive 1933 (Yearbook). Minneapolis: North Central Bible Institute. North Central University. (2006). A Faithful Past, A Shining Future. Minneapolis: North Central University Press. Yeomans, L. (2003). His Healing Power: Four Classic Books on Healing, Complete in One Volume. Tulsa: Harrison House.

Contributors to this article:

Jenny Collins, Tabby Finton, Erica Hanson, Nancy Zugschwert

Frank

FAITHFULLY FORWARD

North Central Timeline 1930–2020

Highlights from the last 90 years

1929: “You must begin a Bible school.” Lilian B. Yeomans prophetically issues this challenge to Frank J. Lindquist, pastor of the Minneapolis Gospel Tabernacle and superintendent of the North Central District of the Assemblies of God.

1930: North Central Bible Institute (NCBI) opens with 30 students meeting at the Minneapolis Gospel Tabernacle.

1931: 26 students complete their first year of the three-year NCBI curriculum.

22 returning students and 30 new students enroll in NCBI, which emphasizes five major disciplines: Bible study, Christian ministry, missions, Christian education, and music. Tuition and books for 1 year cost $51.

NCBI establishes its first student newspaper, The Northcentralian, first yearbook, The Archive, and first orchestra, consisting of 12 players.

1933: Six student-led prayer bands are established to emphasize the needs of nations, people groups, and missionaries in different regions of the world. The prayer band tradition continues for decades.

19 students become NCBI’s first graduates.

1934: NCBI graduates 25 students and establishes the Alumni Association.

1936: Ivan O. Miller, assistant superintendent of the North Central District of the Assemblies of God, joins the faculty. He is a WWI veteran and former pastor of Brainerd Gospel Tabernacle; he later becomes Executive Vice President.

On a winter’s day, F.J. Lindquist and I.O. Miller search for property to relocate the growing NCBI.

Discovering the empty Asbury Hospital facility at 910 Elliot Avenue, they are drawn to the inscription from Matthew 20:28 above the front entrance: “Not to be ministered unto, but to minister.” The property is valued at $470,000, but the current owner, the Board of Asbury Hospital, is asking $500,000 with a 1% ($5,000) down-payment.

1936–37: F.J. Lindquist asks the North Central District and the Executive Presbytery of the Assemblies of God for help with the down payment; neither is able, so Lindquist notifies the Board of Asbury Hospital of NCBI’s inability to purchase the property. The hospital board offers to loan NCBI the $5,000 down payment and reduces the purchase price to $125,000. NCBI purchases the property.

1937: September 20, NCBI begins holding classes in the newly remodeled property at 910 Elliot Ave.; much of the work is done by students and faculty.

The facility includes 8 classrooms, 11 music practice rooms, 3 music studios, 33 female resident rooms, 27 male resident rooms, a library, cafeteria,

recreation and band room, 22 pianos, 1 organ, and 20 typewriters.

Yearly tuition, including housing and meals, is $160. Students also contribute 10 required hours per week to the operation of the campus.

1938: Under the supervision of I.O. Miller, NCBI adds a business program to its course offerings and modifies its name to NCBI-NCBC (North Central Business College). The flexible business program, which included accounting, typing, and business English, allows students to “enroll any Monday.” NCBC is discontinued in 1945.

1946: NCBI introduces a 4-year bachelor of religious education degree program and changes its name to North Central Bible Institute and Theological Seminary (NCBI&TS). North Central partners with the Minneapolis-based MacPhail School of Music to offer a 4-year bachelor of music degree.

Native to England, T.J. Jones joins the faculty, and later becomes Principal and Dean of Students.

1948: John P. Phillipps and G. Raymond Carlson, former

superintendent of the North Central District of the Assemblies of God, join the faculty. Ione Soltau becomes the Dean of Women.

1955: NCBI expands curricular offerings to include 3 bachelor of arts programs: theology, religious education, and missions. Tuition is $108/semester. Students are permitted to work a maximum of 34 hours/week.

The “Practical Work Department,” involves over 50 ministries in a 100mile radius of the NCBI campus, and helped support the establishment of at least 4 local churches: Northfield Gospel Chapel, Stillwater Assembly of God, Bloomington Assembly of God (now Cedar Valley Church), and City of Lakes Church.

NCBI graduates 1,423 students in its first 25 years of operation; 60 percent of those graduates go on to work in occupational ministry, with 50 graduates serving in overseas contexts and 10 graduates returning to NCBI to join the faculty.

1957: North Central Bible Institute (NCBI) is renamed North Central Bible College (NCBC).

1960: The student newspaper is renamed The Northern Light.

1961: Founder F.J. Lindquist resigns as President of NCBC and continues teaching until 1963. I.O.

Miller also submits his resignation to administrators; it is rejected twice, but accepted after Miller’s third attempt.

Professor G. Raymond Carlson is named the second President of NCBC. Enrollment increases to 350 students.

1962: NCBC becomes part of the Minnesota River Athletic Conference, competing with men’s basketball and men’s baseball teams. Women participated in athletics on the cheerleading squad.

1964: NCBC is accredited with the American Association of Bible Colleges.

1966: NCBC acquires the parcel of land, including multiple housing structures, at the corner of Chicago Avenue and 9th Street. The final building on this land would be demolished in 1990 to create additional parking space, the so-called “Triangle Lot.” The land later becomes the site of Phillipps Hall.

1968: On Christmas Eve, NCBC acquires from the Methodist Episcopal Church the 2 remaining Asbury Hospital buildings—the Tourtellotte Memorial Deaconess Home at 915 E. 14th St., and a nurse’s residence at 916 E. 15th St.—but does not take possession until August 1969.

FAITHFULLY FORWARD

The Tourtellotte property is first used as a guest home for visiting speakers and other guests. In 1973 it becomes home to the 20,000 volumes of the T.J. Jones Memorial Library.

The 15th Street property houses male students on the upper 4 floors, and the 1st floor contains the cafeteria. The building is later renamed G. Raymond Carlson Hall.

1969: G. Raymond Carlson resigns as President to assume the position of Assistant General Superintendent of the Assemblies of God.

1970: Rev. Cyril Homer is named the third President of NCBC; he resigns 6 months later to assume the

presidency of Southeastern College of the Assemblies of God at the request of leaders of the Fellowship.

1971: Rev. E.M. Clark is named the fourth President of NCBC.

1972: Construction begins on a new chapel facility. After $130,000 had been contributed to the construction effort, an additional $95,000 remained to be raised. During Spiritual Emphasis Week, students contribute $25,000 toward the project, selling TVs, stereos, and cars to generate funds.

1973: The F.J. Lindquist Chapel opens, seating 600 on the main floor and 350 on the balcony level.

1974: Rev. J. David Flack pioneers the Deaf Studies Department; the department offered a 3-year diploma

to deaf students preparing for occupational ministry.

Dr. Don Argue becomes Vice President for Academic Affairs.

Enrollment grows to 450 students.

1976: Dr. Don Meyer joins the faculty, teaching Old Testament, church history, Bible geography, and Greek.

Enrollment reaches 578 students; the City of Minneapolis requires NCBC to build parking facilities, leading to the construction of two, two-tier structures on either side of the library.

1978: North Central announces during the baccalaureate exercises that the 910 Elliot Ave. building will be renamed I.O. Miller Hall in honor of Miller’s 25 years of service to NCBI/NCBC as a professor and administrator.

Enrollment reaches 600 students.

1979: Dr. Don Argue is named the fifth President. E.M. Clark is named Chancellor and serves in this capacity until 1981. Dr. Don Meyer assumes the role of Vice President of Academic Affairs.

1980: Enrollment grows to 700.

1981: Local landowner Wallace Orfield partially donates 5 apartment buildings located on Chicago Avenue and East 14th Street. A contribution from brothers Silas and Jonathan Liechty serves as the down-payment. NCBC names them the Orfield Apartments.

The E.M. Clark–G.H. Danielson College Life Center is completed on land adjacent to the F.J. Lindquist Chapel. The facility contains 5 classroom spaces, a gymnasium, and administrative offices.

During the 1981 Partners for Progress Banquet, a record-breaking $213,000 is given or pledged. The total includes a $100,000 matching contribution, and funds are used to pay for the construction of 2 skyways linking the College Life Center with Miller and Carlson Halls.

Enrollment grows to 800.

1982: Dr. Gordon Anderson joins the faculty of NCBC to teach philosophy and history. He founds and leads the G. Raymond Carlson Institute for Church Leadership, the NCBC distance education program, from 1989 to 1993.

1983: NCBC begins purchasing individual units in the Elliot East Condominium complex on the northwest corner of Chicago Avenue and East 14th St. By 2002, NCU owns 27 of the 32 units, renting them to single and married students.

1984: In February, NCBC acquires a multiple-occupancy house and parking lot at the SE corner of Chicago Ave. and East 15th St. It is later

named the Thomas F. Zimmerman House and used for men’s honors student housing. The “Z House” is later damaged by a fire, but after renovations in the summer and fall of 1999, male honors students return to the residence.

NCBC-sponsored music ensemble

One Accord is established. Under that name, a different group of students travel summer and fall to promote the college at churches, camps, and schools.

Vice President for Student Life Dr.

Carolyn Tennant organizes a weekly time on Wednesdays for late-night student-led worship in the Lindquist Chapel; these services become known as “Praise Gathering.”

1986: NCBC is accredited with the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

1988: NCBC acquires a one-story building on the 1400 block of Chicago Ave. After the Communications Department moves into the facility, it is dubbed the Communications Center. The building also houses offices for the Northern Light, campus low-band radio station KNCU, theatrical storage, and the campus bookstore.

FAITHFULLY FORWARD

1989: NCBC acquires the storefrontstyle building on the corner of Centennial Place and South 10th St. The 1st floor is utilized for 5 classrooms while the upper floor serves a variety of academic departments. Originally called Centennial Place, in 1998 the building is renamed Del Kingsriter Centre for Intercultural Relations, honoring 1945 alumnus Kingsriter.

NCBC acquires a surface lot on the northwest corner of Chicago Ave. and E. 15th St. in order to add parking space. Although the City of Minneapolis limits the use of this undeveloped surface parking lot to only half its capacity, the permitted parking space is used for commuting students and campus guests.

1995: Dr. Don Argue resigns the presidency to accept the role of President of the National Association of Evangelicals.

Dr. Gordon Anderson returns (after having left to become the Director of the Eurasia Office of the Assemblies of God Division of World Missions in 1993) to become the 6th President of NCBC.

NCBC begins utilizing a recently acquired former American Legion Hall located just behind the intersection of E. 10th and E. 14th Streets. The building, first known as “Legion Hall,” is later named Centennial Hall and used for large, lecture-style classes and biology classes.

1996: Fire destroys Danny’s Bar located on the 1400 block of Chicago

Ave., right across the street from the NCBC campus. The fire claims the last bar in the Elliot Park Neighborhood. NCU acquires the vacant property in February 2000; no development is proposed.

1997: Dr. Don Meyer resigns the role of Vice President of Academic Affairs to accept the role of President of Valley Forge Christian College.

1998: North Central Bible College (NCBC) changes its name to North Central University (NCU). The school colors and mascot change from the black and red “Flames” to the navy and gold “Rams.”

Worship Live is started by Professor Larry Bach to lead regularly in campus worship and at youth events and camps around the region. Worship Live also released its first album; more than 1,000 CDs were already sold before the album was released.

1999: NCU enrolls its largest incoming class within a 20-year period with 465 new students. Total enrollment grows to 1,171.

2000: The Deaf International Bible College (DIBC), a multifaceted program within NCU, is renamed the Paul Carlstrom Deaf Cultural Studies Department. An ASL interpreting major is added.

With funds from the “Building Upon the Legacy” capital campaign, a 4-story, suite-style residence hall, which also contains classroom and student commons space, opens in time for fall classes and is dedicated as John Phillipps Hall, in honor of the beloved professor who served for 35 years. The 1st floor lounge space is named Clay Commons in honor of donors Bob and Rosa Clay.

Student-led chapel begins as a solution to a seating shortage in daily chapel services.

2001: As phase two of the “Building Upon the Legacy” campaign, NCU remodels the 1st floor of Carlson Hall into an expanded kitchen, serving, dining, and dishroom facility. The west half of the 2nd floor of Carlson Hall is converted from residences into a deli and commons space; a terraced patio is added to the rear of Carlson Hall for overflow seating and campus events.

NCU enrollment breaks the 1,200 mark, with a total of 1,220 students.

NCU establishes the first Chair of Pentecostal Preaching, established to

recruit prominent preachers to serve as role models and instructors to North Central students. The role was named after 1954 alumnus Rev. Ernest J. Moen in fall 2002.

2002: As a service to the community, “With One Voice Energizing Neighborhoods” (WOVEN) is founded. Students provide lessons to local children in piano, voice, guitar, and percussion.

2004: A leadership minor is added to the curricular offerings, prompted by the involvement of approximately 200 students in co-curricular leadership roles on campus each year.

An anonymous businessman acquires and donates a property at 920 S. 7th St. The Mensing Hall property becomes NCU’s Fine Arts Building.

NCU acquires an apartment building at the southeast corner of Elliot Ave. and E. 15th St. After remodeling, the 901 Building becomes home to married students, employees, and provides guest housing for visiting chapel speakers, family members, and candidates for employment.

2006: Renovation concludes on the F.J. Lindquist Chapel. The new facility is named the Thomas E. Trask Word & Worship Center in honor of 1956 alumnus and then-current General Superintendent. The dedication coincides with the celebration of North Central’s 75th Anniversary and Homecoming celebration in March.

The project includes refurbishment of the seating, staging, and sound and lighting equipment in the F.J. Lindquist Sanctuary, the addition of a two-story entry, corridor, and commons space known as The Atrium, and the construction of a 200-seat black-box style auditorium known simply as The Chapel.

2007: The Liechty family helps secure a parcel of land at 1618 Elliot Ave. Liechty Hall becomes home to the Intercultural Studies and Business Administration Departments.

NCU becomes the recipient of local radio station KNOF 95.3 FM. The station was established by alumna

Grace Adam ’51 and her husband, Fred, in 1960 as a broadcaster of noncommercial, “full Gospel radio for the Twin Cities.” The gift marks the single most financially valuable contribution to the university since its founding.

A new logo featuring the Minneapolis Skyline to accentuate North Central’s urban location is revealed, along with the tagline, “Your life. Our mission.”

2008: NCU acquires a 12-unit apartment building at the corner of 10th Ave. and E. 15th St. The 1500 Building becomes home to current and former students.

2009: Praise FM 95.3 (formerly KNOF) Christian radio station begins broadcasting from renovated studios on the NCU campus.

2010: After a five-year process, North Central becomes an official member of NCAA Division III Athletics.

FAITHFULLY FORWARD

2011: Chorale performs at Carnegie Hall as part of the Masterworks Festival Chorus.

2012: Enrollment reaches 1,388.

2013: Higher Learning Commission approves online Graduate Certificate in Strategic Leadership.

NCU launches Applied Studies program; through a partnership with a local community college, students can simultaneously earn a bachelor’s degree and an associate’s degree in an applied vocational area.

2014: Master of Arts in Strategic Leadership (MASL) granted full accreditation.

2015: A new field is built in Elliot Park, across the street from Miller Hall. The field is home to NCU soccer (and later, lacrosse) teams and used by the city for community athletics. Significant funds contributed by NCU donors bring the unique public-private partnership to fruition.

NCU’s Social Work degree program receives accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education.

2016: President Gordon Anderson announces his retirement, and search commences for NCU’s next president.

Area landscape and view from NCU change with completed construction of new U.S. Bank Stadium (on the site of the former Metrodome) three blocks from campus.

2017: After 35 years at North Central and 22 as president, Dr. Gordon Anderson retires on June 1.

Scott Hagan becomes the 7th president of North Central, inaugurated during “the biggest weekend in NCU’s history”— celebrating the new president’s inauguration, Homecoming, and the 50th Annual Partners for Progress.

The Chapel in the Trask Word and Worship Center is renamed Anderson Chapel in honor of President Gordon Anderson.

The NCU Fund and 1930 Society are launched to provide ongoing support for student scholarships.

Men’s lacrosse is added as a varsity sport. The total number of varsity athletics team is now 16.

2018: NCU receives it’s 10-year reaccreditation by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) through 2028. The HLC also approves NCU’s two fully online degree programs: a Master of Arts in Strategic Leadership and Associate of Arts in Church Leadership.

NCU suspends regular operations for 12 days to serve the City of Minneapolis before, during and after Super Bowl LII as the staging area for law enforcement activity.

Annual “Give Day” provides funds for major facelift for Clay Commons, the student gathering place in the Phillipps Hall residence.

Academic Partnership program is introduced to provide leadershipminded churches an avenue to offer online degrees integrated with local leadership training.

2019: Team 10 introduced as avenue for alumni to give sustainable and sustaining gifts to the university.

2020: The COVID-19 pandemic prompts a mid-spring move to virtual learning and a fall on-campus return with a multi-modal learning environment.

NCU serves as the site for the George Floyd Memorial Service, hosting hundreds of guests and 300+ media representatives from around the world.

If you have interesting additions or corrections for our timeline, email history@northcentral.edu.

North Central Reflections

Over the past 18 months, we have been gathering stories from former students, faculty, and staff members about their North Central experiences. The transcripts from these interviews could fill volumes, and we wish we could share them all. Here are a few recollections that speak to the faithfulness of God to this institution and the dynamic experiences of those who have kept a place for North Central in their hearts.

“Walter Battle ’50 [North Central’s first African American student] started a church during his senior year. And when he got ready to open the church, he said to his student body, his class, God had told him to start a church and Walter needed help. And 10 of those North Central students raised their hands and said, “We’ll go with you.” And they came and helped him get it started and stayed a couple of years until it got strong enough to be on its own. And we give credit back to North Central. Had Reverend Battle not gotten prepared and educated at North Central, he would not have had the courage...to do this, to train these people.”

Thelma Battle Buckner, sister of Walter Battle ’50

“I had been a 1970’s long-haired, bearded, bell-bottom-wearing, motorcycleriding “hippie” before being adopted into the Pentecostal holiness world. My home church had warmly welcomed me into their community—long hair and all. But I didn’t realize that North Central had different personalgrooming expectations. While standing in line outside Systematic Theology class on my inaugural day of Bible college, the Dean of Men directly informed me that I wouldn’t be permitted to enter the classroom with a beard. I had five minutes to decide to either race back to my dorm room and remove it or unceremoniously end my bible college experience right then and there. I chose to attend class sans beard!” Edward Denecke ’71

“Mrs. Joanne Kersten is the professor that had the most profound effect on my life. At the end of the term and during the end of a class, she handed us back our last tests. I’m sure she saw the disappointment on my face. As I was walking out of the class, she stopped me and said, ‘Look at me.’ When I did, she pointed her finger at me and said with so much compassion, ‘Don’t you dare give up! Do you understand me! Don’t you dare!’ That day changed my life. She challenged, encouraged, and kind of put the fear of God in me. I never got an opportunity to let her know that I never gave up. I learned how to strengthen the gifts and talents that God has blessed me with and to use them for His glory. So thanks to all of the professors that helped to shape and mold my mind, voice, and my heart. Your good works have not been in vain.”

Jackson

“Until the early nineties, the faculty sat on the platform for chapel. But for me to do worship the way I knew we needed to do it—with full band and singers and monitors and with a level of excellence—meant that faculty had to get off the platform. And that was no little thing. I said to Dr. [Gordon] Anderson, ‘You know, I can make you such a popular president. Tell the faculty they no longer have to sit on the platform and that it’s my fault. Then if anybody complains, you can say, ‘You know, those musicians …’ Making that change and pursuing a vision to teach students to write music, record music, and to be psalmists for the next generation was pivotal. That was probably the time I thought, ‘Well, I’ll probably be here my entire career.’”

Larry

Bach, Dean of the College of Fine Arts, at NCU 1981–present

Josephine (Parker ’80)

Josephine (Parker) Jackson

Edward Denecke

Walter Battle

Larry Bach

“[Former President] Don Argue made some decisions that were absolutely critical decisions for the spiritual wellbeing of North Central. He had the dream and vision to make chapel the central integrating place for education, scholarship, spirituality, and the work of the Spirit. To keep chapel as the center of the university for the integration of faith and learning, Don Argue is to be credited; I became a steward, or caretaker of that vision. It was modified a bit—faculty no longer sat on the platform, the style of music has changed—but faculty and administrators were still required to attend. I made a commitment not to just get my carcass into the sanctuary, but to get my spirit in there, too.”

Dr. Gordon Anderson, 6th President, at 1982–2017. Don Argue, Gordon Anderson

“I’m a hard worker, but it wasn’t that way until I came to North Central. I had a professor for Pentateuch who looks and me and says, ‘You know what, you’re pretty smart, but there’s something we can teach you.’ So I took his class but never opened a book. It still had the plastic on it, and I made a B. They didn’t have required attendance in classes, so I showed up the first day, the midterm, and the final. But at the final, that professor looked at me and he says, ‘I’m giving you a B because you did good on the midterm. But there was something in my class lecture that you did not hear, and someone’s soul is at stake because you were too lazy to come to my class.’ Then he said, ‘So you have a good summer.’ And all summer it just stuck in my head. So the next fall … I was in every class, taking notes, and he didn’t say nothing until the very last day in the last class. And he says, ‘Y’all see Reggie here?’ And everybody’s like, ‘Yeah …’ He goes, ‘He didn’t take this class. He took it last semester,’ and he told the whole story, and said to me, ‘You’re a man of integrity.’And I’m so glad I got to see that. That’s North Central.” Reggie Dabbs ’87

“When I first started teaching at North Central, one of my classes, held in the [sanctuary], had 325 students in it. All of the students who sat under the balcony had very little eye contact, and there was a little bit of chatter and conversation in that class. And I thought, ‘How am I going to get control of this class? I can’t even see them much less know who they are.’ So I decided to memorize everybody’s name! We handed out a roster by row, and I asked everybody to sit in the same row and in the same seat. And then I took a picture of every student and I went home, and I memorized, memorized, memorized. Within a few days, I had everybody’s name memorized, and when the little chatter happened underneath the balcony in the shadows, I said, ‘Mr. So-and-So.’ And he just about jumped out of his skin. He thought, ‘Wow, she knows me.’ And it pretty much took care of the situation. I got control of the class so that we could get on with learning.”

Dr. Debbie Gill, Professor of Pastoral Studies, 1984–1987

“When we celebrate our 90th anniversary, we have to understand that there were many people who came before us who really made the place what it is. Even though I’ve been at North Central a long time, I’m appreciative of the people that were there before I got to North Central and the investment they made in it in the early years. I’m happy to have had a small hand in it for a period of time, but now I know there are new people at the university who are just starting out, and they’ve got a great future to look forward to. A North Central at 90 is going to be a vastly different place than it was as North Central Bible Institute in the 1930s. But that’s to be expected. And that’s what we want. We want an institution that’s always moving forward, and that’s where North Central is going to go over the coming years. It’s going to move forward.”

Dr. Buzz Brookman, Professor of Old Testament, at 1978–2018

Reggie Dabbs

Debbie Gill

Buzz Brookman

Alumni and Faculty Authors

Congratulations to the following North Central University faculty and alumni who have recently published books!

LaToya Burrell, J.D., MBA, NCU Dean of Graduate Education and Accreditation

Be Bold: How To Prepare Your Heart And Mind For Racial Reconciliation (High Bridge Press, 2020)

“What can I do? How can I work towards a solution? How can I be a change agent? How can I be an ally? How can I effectively change my mindset to get to a place of total healing and racial reconciliation? These questions are asked in response to tough discussions or events relating to race, racism, racial injustice, or systemic racism, both historical and current. ‘Be Bold’ is an answer to the ‘What can I do?’ question, providing practical advice on how to talk about race and boldly move towards being the change you want to see. The journey begins with examining your heart and mind to ensure that you are prepared for growth and continues with specific pointers on what you can do. ‘Be Bold’ equips you with tools to become bolder in your daily interactions, discussions, and actions!”*

Alan Pastian ’98

The New Young Christian Field Guide: Practical Advice for the Modern Disciple (TNYC Press, 2020)

“Christianity doesn’t always line up with our friends, our work, our interests, or our weekends.... Our contemporary culture and our biblical faith can come to blows at times. That’s why it has never been more critical to engage in honest, meaningful, and lifegiving conversations about faith as we are living out our calling, living in our community, and living from our culture. This field guide is our clarity as modern disciples. Discover how you can follow Christ beyond a one-time decision of accepting Jesus into a life-long journey of discipleship with Jesus.”*

Calvin Ray ’71

Operation Saltwater: Fresh Water Crisis Amid Climate Change (Resource Publications, 2020)

“This [fiction] adventure is about the strength of family ties, the challenge of a studentteacher relationship, and the desire to honor God. Set in the backdrop of today’s climate change predictions, this book will encourage readers to trust their faith in God.”*

Caleb Wampler ’10

Hunger: For Those Who Know There’s More… (Independent, 2020)

“[Hunger provides] a riveting collection of heavenly encounters; you cannot be the same person who opened its cover when you close it. Our most urgent need continues to be actual encounters with the living God. ‘Hunger’ not only chronicles the encounters men of God have had with Him throughout church history; it is itself a heavenly encounter. Not only will your faith in God be strengthened, your love for Him deepened, and your relationship with Him nourished, but your hunger to personally encounter God, Himself, will grow stubbornly unrelenting as you read ‘Hunger’ and embrace its message.”*

Steven J. Wilson, Adjunct Faculty, College of Graduate and Professional Education

Isaiah 9:7: Increasing God’s Government in Your City and Nation (Fire Wheat, 2020)

“The first twelve chapters of this book are dedicated to equipping you and your team with apostolic knowledge. The remaining three chapters will activate your apostolic team and send you out to bring the kingdom of God into your city and nation. This book is loaded with illustrations, graphs, pictures, testimonies and links to allow an enriching experience to you, the reader.”**

*Source: Amazon.com

**Source: Isaiah97.com

Alumni Updates

1960s

Rolf ’61 and Martha (Ott ’62) Bergman celebrated their 58th wedding anniversary on Aug. 11. After a career with G.E. in Cleveland, Rolf has been running a consulting business in lighting since 2000.

Víctor Hedman ’62 is still doing preaching tours in Argentina, Paraguay, and Spain. He also preaches on Facebook weekly in Spanish and English.

Paul Hanson ’66 retired in 2008 to Waupaca, WI, and has been serving the Wisconsin/Northern Michigan District of the Assemblies of God, doing 15 interim pastorates to date.

Marcia Gerard ’67 has retired from her career, during which she served as a public school speech pathologist, hospital clinical therapist, and Senior Reimbursement Auditor at hospitals in Des Moines (IA) and Omaha (NE).

George ’67 and Linda (Scantling ’67) Wiland recently celebrated their 54th wedding anniversary. George has served on the Tulsa County Election Board since 2015 and is the current Chairman. He also serves on the Executive Board of City Elders in Tulsa. Linda recently retired after 40 years as an RN.

Ron Davis ’68 retired in December from the Deputy Sheriff-reserves and remains involved with his church and jail ministry.

1970s

Wesley Vagle ’70 is semi-retired and at present serving as Field Missionary with Assemblies of God U.S. Mission America Placement Service (U.S. MAPS) since 2004. He serves as missionary overseer of Field 9, which includes five AG Districts.

Marlene Lewis ’73 worked professionally as a certified sign language interpreter for more than 40 years. She is now retired but still does occasional interpreting.

1980s

Steve Waldner ’82 works as stonemason, substitute teacher, and stand-up comedian, while also serving for 30+ years in children’s ministry.

Bill Humiston ’86 served with Teen Challenge in Western Pennsylvania before accepting the pastorate at First Assembly of God Church in Crookston, MN, where he served until 2018. He now works in a nursing home and preaches occasionally for churches in northwest Minnesota and eastern North Dakota needing pulpit supply.

»

»

Steve Waldner

Víctor Hedman

Len Fisher

Len Fisher ’83 is the founder and Managing Director of Inspire Theatre in Westland, MI.

Bill Humiston

Donna (Cerulli ’89) Toomer lives in Florida and works at Moffitt Cancer Center as an Executive Assistant to the Sr. Director of Population Science Research.

1990s

Stephen Simpson ’92 teaches in the Bureau of Indian Education in South Dakota.

Robert Wehrley ’95 and his wife, Nita, are missionaries in Nicaragua with Project Samuel Ministries. They are the first full-time missionaries to be on property in the Managua garbage dump, where they focus on children’s ministry, single mothers, children’s ministry worker training and reaching out to the homeless.

Tamara Drinkwine ’95, M.A. ’19 received her Master of Arts in Strategic Leadership from NCU and is now finishing her Ph.D. in Psychology with an emphasis on the integration of technology and education at Grand Canyon University.

Juice Montezon ’98 works in health insurance underwriting. Ginger (Ozerajtys ’00) Montezon, is working on her master’s in educational leadership at Concordia University.

NCU Bible Lands & Alumni Tour

January 26–February 4, 2022

You’re invited on a life-changing journey to the Holy Land, where the Bible will unfold before your very eyes. Explore the origins of your faith, how to embody that faith here in the present, and how to pass it on to the next generation.

Hosts:

• Adam Sikorski, D.Min., Associate Professor of Church Leadership

• Tabby (Wilson) Finton, Director of Alumni Relations & NCU Fund

Visit HolyLandsStudies.org/ncualumni to get started!

Matt ’98 and Kiki (Swanson ’98) Carpenter live in Arkansas where Matt is the Area Director of Chi Alpha over Central Arkansas. Kiki homeschools their five sons, ranging from kindergarten to high school senior.

2000s

Josh Harp ’06 serves as the pastor of King of Kings Presbyterian Church, a P.C.A. church in the west valley of Phoenix, and is finishing up a master’s program through Covenant Theological Seminary. Elizabeth (Carter ’04) Harp is an Occupational Therapist Assistant for the Osborn School District of Phoenix.

Michael ’18 and Kyja (Meers ’07) Malone welcomed Violet Grace in 2019. They are grateful that after treatment for Burkett Lymphoma, Michael is six months cancer-free.

Taylor Wilson ’09 graduated from Luther Seminary in 2016 and has been serving since then as a Lutheran pastor. He and his wife, Julie, have two daughters.

2010s

Emily (Fishel ’12) O’Rourke and her husband welcomed their second child, Hannah Allison, on Oct. 19, 2019.

Brooke (Christensen ’12) Taylor and her husband welcomed their firstborn, Matthias James, on May 8, 2020.

Isaac Van Proosdy ’13, ’20 M.A. graduated from North Central’s Master of Arts in Strategic Leadership program this summer. He and his wife, Mia (DeFilippo ’13) welcomed their third child, Ari Nahum, who joins two older brothers.

Juice and Ginger Montezon

Josh Harp

Matt and Kiki Carpenter

Rebekah Coonen ’14 earned an MA in clinical mental health counseling from Regent University. She and her husband live in Montana, and she recently earned her Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor certification.

Michael Lawinger ’14 is working as an overnight coordinator at a rescue mission in Rockford, IL. He and his wife, Sylvia, are intentional about sharing their faith, and personal ministry includes a weekly trip to the courthouse to pray with people before their time in the courtroom.

Rebekah (Jacobson) Hanson ’15 worked for the Karen Organization of Minnesota until her daughter was born in January 2020. She and her husband live and serve with Karen refugees at Bethel Christian Fellowship in St. Paul.

Hannaniah ’18 and Andrea (Martinez ’17) Linde welcomed their second baby girl on May 13, 2020.

Josiah Williams ’17 serves on the board at Osceola (WI) Community Church and is working on a Master of Divinity at Bethel University. He finished 10 years in the Army Reserves in April. He and his wife, Allison (Coleman ’14) welcomed their second child, Annaliese, in June.

Adam Thuestad ’18 works at Sunrise Senior Living and has returned to school to pursue a nursing degree.

Kaitlyn (Gifford ’19) O’Connor and her husband welcomed a baby boy on March 7, 2020.

2020s

Courtney Benson ’20 is working as a Residential Counselor at an inpatient residential treatment program for adolescent girls experiencing severe mental illness, suicidal ideation, or substance abuse.

In Memory

North Central University extends condolences to the families of these NCU community members who have passed away.

Ronald Snider ’52, on Feb. 15, 2020.

Harold Norman ’53, of Clarkston, WA, on Feb. 24, 2018

Charles Wefel ’60, of Minneapolis, MN, on Nov. 16, 2019

Neil Dezelske ’86, of Litchfield, MN, on Aug. 10, 2020

Aldo Costa ’90, on Oct. 16, 2020

Rebekah Coonen

Michael Lawinger

Rebekah Hanson

Adam Thuestad

North Central’s oldest alumna home with the Lord

Joye Marie (Kensmoe)

Buckmiller went to be with the Lord at age 103 on Oct. 9, 2020, in Bismarck, North Dakota. According to her obituary in the Bismarck Tribune, “Joye attended rural grade school and McClusky High School. At age 17 she traveled alone by train to Minneapolis, Minnesota, to attend North Central Bible [Institute] (now North Central University), graduating in 1937. Returning to North Dakota, she and her cousins, Adeline and Lillian (Sis) Melom, held evangelistic meetings in various locations. The trio provided the music and Joye brought the message. Recently Joye was honored as the oldest living alumni of North Central University.”

Trent Redmann, M.A., North Central University Director of Development, knew Joye because she was a friend who introduced his grandparents to one another. In 2019, when Joye was 102, he had the opportunity to interview Joye about her North Central experiences. Here are some excerpts from their conversation.

North Central founder Frank J. Lindquist

“We liked him all right. But he was so stern and so strict; man, that had to be right to the letter or you, you heard about it!” I have to say that though he was strict, he was so good with the students. And I’d say the majority of the students really loved him.”

NCU dean Ivan O. Miller

“Ivan Miller, he was so good and helped the students so much, that we all just loved him. He would just show interest in all the students that we naturally just thought he was wonderful. You know, he gave himself to us and, and we just thought it was marvelous.”

Being a North Dakota girl in the ‘big city’

“The whole first year I was there, I was away and that was a lonely one. I thought many times of quitting. But they would encourage you just keep on, keep on, you’ll get there, you’ll enjoy it more. And I did as time went on. I got better acquainted and met more kids, but I fell in love with the school.”

Going to Bible school

“It was such a nice school and such a nice group of young people and they all had the same interests, the same desire is to serve the Lord better. These other students that I met, they had such a desire and such a yearning to go on with the Lord and serving more and, and it finally got ahold of me. I’m thankful to this day for the ones that were influential in my life.”

“People say, ‘Oh, you can just study the Bible at home.’ No, it isn’t like going to Bible school. It’s a different thing all together then you, you really enjoy the fellowship of other Christians is really what I enjoy. Yes. Christian friends and fellowship you can’t beat; they have a greater influence on you than anyone else.”

Moving the campus to 910 Elliot Avenue

“That … was quite a promotion and it really was a blessing. A lot of people said, ‘Oh, they’re just trying to, you know, make, make a big story.’ No, it wasn’t that! The director had the students on his heart and he knew that many of them were ready for the ministry. And that’s really what did it, it was that courage that went from him, and we praise him to this day.”

Crazy stories, at a Bible school?

“Oh, there, there were crazy stories alright. [Although] we were so chaperoned. We loved to sneak out and go where we weren’t supposed to. Too bad when you got caught! But we didn’t mind that, we took the punishment and started over. And you know, how young people are.”

Life-changing experience

“It changed my life. It really did. I had other aspirations that never came up, but it’s completely changed my life. I felt they were interested in me and they wanted to help me and they did. And they do that for every student.”

“[We used to sing] ‘I’ll go where you want me to, Lord.’ Yes. That is a choice. I’ll go wherever you want me to go, dear Lord. And when we sang that we could feel it. You know what you’re saying and we meant it. And we went on in the Christian work for a time and then you know, something happens and then you kind of want something else. So we got married. Then had kids (maybe wasn’t the wisest thing) but we went on being Christians. You know, we didn’t stop being Christians! We didn’t forget the Lord. No, he’s done so much for us that we can’t forget what he’s done for us.”