SEU Magazine | Fall '13 Issue

fall 2013 CAMPUS EDITION

welcome week « football « missions portico « ground breaking « homecoming

“I enjoy the chapels very, very much. I love how there’s freedom of worship.”

–Stephen Shelter, Freshman

“i

how [Southeastern] integrates personal faith and higher learning.” –Honor Hannah, Junior

-Devon Barnett, Junior

“It’s where all my friends are.”

–Matt Huett, Assistant Professor of Spiritual Formation

02

“Southeastern’s enthusiastic interaction with the community and the way that Southeastern has a mind to breathe out, not just to breathe in.”

“I love Southeastern because it changed my life! I am a different person because of Southeastern.” –Emory Keen, Resident Director of Bauer Hall

–Brent Adriano, Junior

love how the faculty really cares about you.”

“Our

faculty not only cares about the academic standing or our learning in the classroom, but about our spiritual life and our health and our safety, and our family life outside of the classroom.” –Anna Marie Smith, Graduate Assistant for the Department of Student Learning.

03

10

40 30 Portico

An exclusive interview with Portico’s Senior House Manager, Naida Lindberg

Exposure and Missions

Highlighting mission trips and a student’s experience in Cambodia

04

Welcome Week

Celebrating the beginning of a new semester

34 06 Southeastern Spotlights A light is shined on outstanding students, faculty and staff

Letter from the Vice President Chris Owen talks about SEU’s milestones

14 22 46 26 16 Prestige

Record Chart Numbers

A glance at SEU’s Accounting program

An inside look at Southeastern’s biggest year yet

Homecoming

Fall Fest and 5K Health and Wellness makes its debut with their first Fall Fest 5K and a record number show up for SEU’s annual Fall Fest

Igniting Southeastern’s school spirit through tradition and celebration

Football

Setting the tone for next year’s season

05

What a remarkable year for Southeastern! Whether you realize it or not, you are a part of making history here at SEU. This semester, we saw the largest freshmen class and overall enrollment in the history of the university; we opened Portico, our new coffee shop; and we took the first steps towards Fire Football with more than 100 players red-shirting for the season. If these were not enough, we also began construction on the new 28,000-squarefoot Health-Science building as well as the 3,500-seat football stadium.

Furthermore, we should not fail to mention the $10 million gift we received from a gracious donor. We have much for which to be thankful.

It is my hope that as you look through the pages of this magazine, you will feel a sense of pride in your school as well as a sense of gratitude for what God is doing in your life.

I am a firm believer that the future belongs to the storytellers. I am sure that, as you flip through the pages of this magazine, you too will agree that our future looks very bright. My hope is that as you take in the magazine, you will, at some point, share it with a friend or family member so that he or she, too, can experience Southeastern University.

06

Vice President for Student Development

Another first this semester is the formation of the Creative Communications magazine team, made up of photographers, designers and writers, who did an unbelievable job capturing the activity of God on our campus. I say activity of God, because we believe that every good and perfect gift comes from God above, and, this year, God has truly been generous to us.

And so, this magazine is our way of celebrating the significant moments of this semester.

Chris Owen

A Few Words from the VP

www.seuworship.com @SEU_worship 07

Southeastern Mag ADVISOR EDITOR WRITERS DESIGNERS/PHOTOGRAPHERS VIDEOGRAPHER

Sabrina Esposito Ashley Reed Jeanmarie Johnson Priscilla Pennington Amanda Brandi Reed Burr Laura Rivera

Contributing Editors

Bonnie Bourgeois Alyssa Chamberlin Frankie Cunningham Hillary DeMeo Sabrina Esposito Courtney Leo Ed Maner Annalee Mutz Chad Neuman Paige Wagner Natalie Wolfe

Contributing Writers

Elizabeth Gifford Matthew Higgins Michaela Pearson Shayla Peterson Donnie Smith Stephanie Sisk William Steinbrecher Marissa Swiech Angie Quezada

Contributing Designers & Photographers

Victoria Bilsborough Joshua Bowlby Liz Colburn Derek Forehand Brianna Gamez Jordan Glindomrong Matthew Higgins Ashley Holstein Sally Ibarra

HUGHES CORPORATE PRINTING, LLC 101 Orange County Circle NE Winter Haven, FL 33881

08

Jake Lutz Meagan Lynch Michael Mutz Priscilla Pennington Loree Rowland Kaitlin Russell Myles Shank Ashley Wright

reed

ashley

priscilla jeanmarie amanda laura

sabrina

courtney

09

THE UNDERGROUND Written by: Jeanmarie Johnson

The Underground, Southeastern’s first event of Welcome Week 2013, dazzled the new students from the instant they entered Bush Chapel.

Each student received a raffle ticket for the chance to win various gift cards, which kept the anticipation lasting throughout the entirety of the event. With the theme being a 1920s circus, the red lighting helped to give the venue an archaic vibe. Most of the hosts dressed up in themeappropriate attire, dressing as mimes, clowns and flappers, among other things.

Lauren Yafanaro, a sophomore and the assistant project manager for the team who put on the event, stated, “We wanted to excite the freshmen [and transfer students] for their first year of college.”

The Underground is consistently one of SEU’s largest events and is always a big hit. This year there were 900+ students in attendance, allowing just enough room to mingle and partake in the many activities strewn about the room.

“It was an awesome first night with The Underground. It was just so awesome meeting other people and I think it kind of, you know, didn’t force us but made it easier to get to know everyone else,” said Steven Dekrey, a transfer junior.

10

SPARK

Written by: Priscilla Pennington

Every fire starts with a spark. From there, the fire grows into something bright and powerful.

As new students came together to share a family style meal with student leaders, staff, and faculty members, a spark was created.

Unique to most universities, Southeastern created a family oriented dinner to help incoming students develop relationships that could last. The occasion kicked off a year of events created to empower and invest in students.

“The whole thing [was] family oriented and I am big on family. I liked the set up. They pretty much nailed everything,” said Jalen Douglas, a freshman at Southeastern.

Busy behind the scenes, Julian Carreras, a student leader, delegated tasks to various volunteers. He observed while different goals were being achieved as students engaged with one another.

What made Spark distinct from other events is what it stood to achieve.

“It [signified] them launching into the community and being a part of it,” said Carreras.

At the end of the night, Southeastern had not only fed almost eight hundred students, but also invested in their lives.

PRADO

Written by: Jeanmarie Johnson

Paper lanterns lit the way as the myriad of students finished up their dinner and took a break from moving in to fill the center of campus for a night of laid-back festivities. The clicking of bocce balls hitting into one another intermingled with the crooning of bean bags hitting their mark as students played corn-hole and the basketball players started a pick-up game that helped set the mood for a fun time of building community.

“I’ve met more people here [at PRADO] than the whole time I’ve been here for the past couple of days… it’s awesome!” said Amelia Duke, a freshman.

On August 20, the Residence Life team put on their biggest event of Welcome Week, PRADO. The tranquil atmosphere made it comfortable to meet new friends and reunite with those previously met during the week’s earlier events.

The air was filled with melodies from various musical artists such as The Civil Wars, Imagine Dragons, and various other folk sensations. Tea Largo made an appearance, offering free peach flavored and black iced teas to the students.

“It’s a really open kind of event and everyone’s very friendly…it’s just nice to meet new people,” said freshman Molly McCann.

11

BATTLE OF THE DORMS Written by: Jeanmarie Johnson

The air permeated with battle cries as roughly 300 students, faculty, and staff members made their way onto the battlefield for Southeastern’s 2013 fall Battle of the Dorms.

As the tributes marched on, the campus was smeared with colors of reds, greens, blues, blacks, pinks, yellows, and oranges, each representing an SEU dormitory.

This year’s battle was Hunger Games themed, which added an extra dose of enthusiasm.

“It allowed each hall to bring a unique aspect of creativity to this event… It gave the competition games an atmosphere of true competition,” said Carey Leader, the Resident Director of Esperanza Hall.

The final battle had every tribute yelling, running, shouting, panting, and gasping for air, all in hopes of earning first place. Victory cries rang out as the awards for spirit were given to Bauer Hall and overall first place to “The Diamond District” of Aventura Hall.

Exhausted, happy murmurs could be heard as the tributes made their way back home.

“There was a sense of great competition but it also brought a great sense of unity within the halls,” said Leader.

12

THE BASH

Written by: Priscilla Pennington

As Welcome Week came to a close, clusters of students swayed to the beat of music and meandered through crowds of people who gathered to savor a night of memorable conversations and encounters. In the event known as The Bash, Natalie James, a student leader in FYE (First Year Experience), worked diligently with her team to construct this atmosphere.

“The purpose and the mission of The Bash is to create a space for first year students to [connect, for the relationships] that they have been building and creating from the start of Welcome Week,” said James. She enjoyed watching students mingle and establish new relationships.

What helps create these new relationships?

Freshman, Ronny Rosario, credits the iced coffee.

“Coffee definitely makes you talk and socialize. That’s good to have here,” said Rosario. He not only enjoyed the cool drink, but also appreciated the live music. As Welcome Week came to a close, students concluded the night with an iced cup of coffee and sweet savory snacks.

LEADERSHIP WEEK

COMMUTER ORIENTATION

“Student leadership is not about us as leaders, but about how we can help students at Southeastern,” said Matt Roberti, a third-year student leader.

A week prior to orientation, nearly 160 student leaders came together for Leadership Week. In preparation for upcoming events, leaders worked tirelessly on projects while laughing and growing together.

“If we want to stand out, if we want to do something bigger than ourselves, we have to put the effort in. It’s recognizing that you’re working for something greater than yourself and [that’s why you’re] putting in the time and the effort,” said Roberti.

Along with preparing for orientation day and Welcome Week, this week was created to bring the student leaders closer as a team and as friends.

“It really sets the tone for the leaders for the semester, or even the year. That week really establishes the principle relationship that you’re going to fall back on,” said Jessica Jacobs, another third-year student leader.

“I think that commuters are often forgotten.

They go to their classes, but sometimes they don’t really know what they can get involved in,” said Phoebe Storey, assistant project manager of the Commuter Life team.

On August 17, 2013, nearly 130 students participated in the first commuter orientation.

As students lined the halls to register, they received fireboxes and bright orange packets that included a welcome letter and other essential pieces of information.

“The purpose [of orientation] was to welcome incoming commuter students and to inform them of services and opportunities,” said Frankie Cunningham, the Commuter Life Coordinator.

Throughout the day, commuters benefited from attending informative sessions, visiting SEU hotspots, learning university lingo, and socializing in Portico.

“I think this year will be a good growing experience, because I have been in a very small private school all of my life. I think it will be a good way of meeting new friends. I think that orientation will help me because I don’t really know where anything is right now,” said Ashley Cheshire, a communications and journalism major.

Written by: Jeanmarie Johnson

Written by: Priscilla Pennington

13

14

15

16

IT’S HERE. College football is an American tradition, and the last thing local Lakeland natives ever expected to have was a “Friday Night Lights” atmosphere on the Southeastern University campus.

But through much desire in the athletic program, President Kent Ingle has announced that Southeastern will be competing in the NAIA Division I football in a new 3,500-seat stadium starting in the fall of 2014. Creating this football team will not only be a step closer to expanding the university’s growth, but it will also create true tradition in the SEU and Lakeland community.

Written by: Angie Quezada

17

Dating back to the fall of 2012, the athletic department has gone through quite a project in developing an intercollegiate football program. Things have started to take shape over the last year as a coaching staff has been hired, players were recruited and arrived on campus, workouts have been held, and an on-campus stadium is under construction.

“I can sense an excitement for the start of football not only on campus but around Lakeland as well,” said Drew Watson, Director of Athletics. “We’re looking forward to taking the field next fall and are excited to be hosting our Polk County rival, Warner, for the first home game.”

The players arrived on campus on August 15. On the 16th, they held a service project at Crystal Lake Middle School, which serves as their home for 2013.

Workouts started August 26 at Lake Bonny Park. The team then moved to Crystal Lake for their first official practices.

In late September, full contact practices began. On October 12, the Fire hosted their first controlled scrimmage at All Saints Academy in Winter Haven. Having only been practicing in full pads for two weeks, Barefield was quite pleased with the way his team played.

“The defense played with a lot of enthusiasm; they ran to the ball they hit,” said Barefield. “We weren’t able to do a lot of the things against them that I had wanted to do offensively, but that’s a good thing; If I could, I’d be concerned.”

The team will next take the field for spring workouts in March in preparation for varsity play.

18

19

20

2014.

September 6, 2014 will be a historic day in Southeastern University history as the Fire head to Montgomery, Alabama to take on Faulkner University.

The excitement will move up a notch the following Saturday when the Fire host their first football game in their new stadium. Preparations for the stadium, which is being built where the soccer field was located, have been taking place since late October and ground was officially broken November 14.

Coach Keith Barefield and his staff have been laying the foundation for the first season next year. “It starts with the players; you can’t have a team without players,” said Barefield. “As soon as I got the job, I got to work on finding some football players to come here. That was the first order of business hands down.” Barefield has three keys that he’s developed when it comes to finding athletes to play in his programs. “We want champion caliber individuals in three areas: in the classroom, for Christ, and in competition,” said Barefield. “All three of these things work together.”

Written by: Donnie Smith, Sports Information Director

Photos by: Myles Shank

21

PRESTIGE. Written by: Ashley Reed Photos by: Enrollment Marketing

Relevant. Challenging. Purposeful.

Southeastern’s accounting program is a powerhouse within the College of Business and Legal Studies. With a 90% passing rate of Southeastern students who take the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam on their first try, Southeastern’s accounting program also boasts more female accounting majors than any other Assemblies of God college.

“Southeastern University has the best accounting programs among its peer institutions.

I will put our best graduates up against those of any other in the state of Florida. Our CPA pass rate, job placement and faculty research in pedagogy all provide evidence that our curriculum and instruction that qualified students should consider earning their accounting degree at Southeastern,” said Dr. Childs, Dean of the College of Business and Legal Studies.

22

Southeastern’s professors help equip students with the education and experience they need to stand out in the marketplace by connecting them to internships and preparing them to excel on their exams. Firms are invited to provide mock interviews for students and give them feedback, improving their communications skills while opening networking opportunities.

Dr. Fairchild explained how the accounting program builds connections with prospective employers, “We are talking to people who are still in the field, and whatever they tell us [they] need, we try to adapt something to it.”

When asked about how the accounting program is kept current, Dr. Hahn mentioned the connection that is kept with alumni, “We get input [from our graduates] on what we ought to do to modify our program.” An annual survey is sent to alumni on how well the program has prepared them for their jobs, allowing faculty to modify curriculums as needed.

A new program that is still under development is the Masters in Forensic Accounting. A 14-month program with a corporate-type approach, the program will be taught by certified forensic accountants and will include a mock trial. Tentatively scheduled to start in August or September of 2014, the program is still pending approval from the executive council and the board.

One of the needs among accounting majors is female professors with previous experience as accountants who can serve as mentors and models for young women. With more female accounting majors than any other Assemblies of God school, Southeastern has found one such mentor in Professor Natasha Ware, who moved from working in a public accounting firm to a private firm to education.

Professor Ware’s experience in the workforce allows her to give relevant advice for females pursuing a career in what was once a male-dominated field.

“It’s not that there is a lack of female accounting professionals, but just that they are not staying. They are not seeing the connection that they can be a wife and mother and have their job, staying for longevity. There are a lot of firms who hire mothers who can work from home. There are a lot of options,” said Dr. Leslie, Assistant Professor of Business.

Senior Sarah Allen shared her impression of Professor Ware, “It’s encouraging to see her be as successful as she is at such a young age. She has her masters and her CPA and she’s now a professor. This encourages me to pursue my dreams to succeed in the accounting profession. It (accounting) can be done by someone who isn’t, for lack of a better phrase, a stuffy, boring individual but a lively, successful woman.”

The college’s professors have just as much praise for their students, as expressed by Professor Ware, “We strive for great things in our students and our students strive for great things.”

Dr. Leslie agreed, “We have the best students on campus.

They are creative, they have a strong work ethic…we expect a certain level of performance from our students and it translates well in the workforce.”

The high standards held by faculty and the diligence of the students makes Southeastern’s accounting program second to none.

23

Groups

Building Community Through Mentorship FYE Groups

Connect Groups

City Groups

FYE Groups is a discipleship opportunity extended specifically to first year students at the university. Running along the same timeline as Connect Groups, freshmen students are placed into groups and assigned a student leader as their FYE Groups mentor. Every Wednesday morning, over 80 groups pour into Tuscana Ristorante and, through the masses, find their way to their assigned tables. From 9:00-9:50 a.m., the mentor will engage in community and create a space of openness and love for one another through leading the group in a specific Life Journal passage. Students will meditate on the passage, S.O.A.P. (the preferred scripture journaling method of SEU), and unpack what they have learned through small group discussion. With usually only a few minutes to spare at the end, students are told about any upcoming school events or holidays in the upcoming weeks.

FYE Groups create the standard for campus-wide discipleship, starting immediately as a freshman. First year students come from a wide variety of backgrounds and cultures. They can have a difficult transition not only into college but also into a successful spiritual rhythm of scripture reading, discipleship and community. FYE Groups create a place for students to lean on each other, as well as seek wisdom and advice from someone who has been in their shoes before.

Connect is changing the cultural climate on our campus as unity is built through relationships and discipleship.

We believe that as our university is growing exponentially we also need to be intentional about growing infinitely smaller by allowing every student’s story to be part of our community and connected to leadership. On Wednesdays from 9:00-9:50 a.m., every available space on campus is occupied by discipleship groups as students meet in classrooms, offices, labs, conference rooms, and coffee shops to connect with faculty, staff, and each other through the process of mentorship. Students were able to sign up for the mentor of their choice after 1st Chapel in August at our Groups Release Party. That night over 1,200 students rushed over to sign up to be part of a Connect, City, or FYE Group. There were 592 sophomores, juniors and seniors that enrolled in a Connect Group with one of our 85 mentors. Connect Groups are organic in structure as students are able to ask questions and engage in conversation about social, academic, and spiritual life.

Each group also has one “experience” a semester just to spend time together ranging from movie nights to paintball to beach trips. We have seen God move and create change in both the mentors and students as relationships were formed and discipleship took place.

When Southeastern University launched the Connect small groups program last year, we knew that discipleship would change the face of our campus and the lives of our students.

Since our campus’ word of the year is “So All the World Will Know,” we saw a great opportunity to reach outside of the SEU community to young adults in Lakeland by connecting them to a small group where they could read the Bible, feel loved on a personal level, and experience permanent life change.

This led to the launch of a new small groups program this year called City Groups, which is designed specifically and solely for young adults who do not attend Southeastern. When a young adult from the community of Lakeland comes to our 1st Chapel service on a Monday night, they have the ability to sign up for one of our City Groups, which are led by student leaders in the Department of Spiritual Formation.

This opens the door for students at Southeastern to reach beyond university walls and make a true difference in the city. Next time you’re at Starbucks and the barista needs some encouragement, or you’re in Walmart and you feel like you’re supposed to have a conversation with that guy on the bench, offer them a ride to chapel and a weekly way to stay connected with the Body of Christ as well. A moment of boldness can lead to discipleship that can change everything.

Written by: Will Steinbrecher

24

Written by: Marissa Swiech & Stephanie Sisk

Written by: Matt Higgins

Club Rush

Renewed Not Condemned (RNC): The path to wholeness after suffering through drug addiction, mental disorders, or physical and emotional abuse can appear impossible. Some make the error of attempting to maneuver this path on their own. Many find it difficult to share their past with those who cannot relate. Renewed Not Condemned (RNC) offers hope to those struggling with this dilemma. RNC is composed of students coming out of traumatic experiences who are focused on spreading the message that there is life after addiction through Jesus Christ.

RNC is now in its first official semester as a student group at Southeastern University. President Hillary Reburn proclaims RNC is the place to form deep relationships in an atmosphere of transparency. Meetings start with worship and prayer, followed by fellowship where participants have the freedom to share their testimony or struggles. Reburn feels this approach will foster intimacy with God and each other.

RNC’s mission statement is Jeremiah 29:11, which states, “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Through Jesus Christ and a firm support system, RNC believes anyone can reach his or her desired end no matter how rocky the start.

Enactus: Enactus is an international non-profit organization with university chapters all over the world. This organization seeks to provide projects that empower the community through the spirit of entrepreneurship. As a member of the Enactus club, students are actively involved in projects that provide them with leadership skills that will benefit them not only in business but also in any other organization that they may work for.

The Southeastern University chapter is open to all majors and currently consists of about 50 members who are actively involved in five projects: Visión Activa, Friends for the Future, Sweet Success, R.O.A.R., and C.O.R.E. These projects all focus on a particular societal demographic with an identified need that we address by empowering individuals to rise above their circumstances and reach their full potential. We accomplish these endeavors through avenues such as: small business consulting, mentoring at-risk adolescents, tutoring Spanishspeaking adults, and [providing] workforce readiness training. Our weekly meetings consist of project updates, brainstorming, and professional seminars mixed with the fun and pride of being a part of something bigger than the individual.

College Republicans:

The Southeastern University College Republicans are the official branch of the Republican Party on campus. We exist to promote diversity, community, and freedom while engaging students in the political process. Our party was founded out of a hunger for equality of all Americans and a commitment to the constitution. What began as a group of everyday Americans grew into a political force, including Abraham Lincoln, Susan B. Anthony, and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Together we abolished slavery, gave women the right to vote, established our national parks, fought corrupt big business, and ended the Cold War. The Southeastern University College Republicans are the next generation of Republican leaders, and we’re ready to make our mark!

We offer many opportunities to get involved throughout the year from community service projects, political events, general club meetings, and parties.

25

fall fest/5k Written by: Jeanmarie Johnson Between Southeastern’s annual Fall Fest and first annual 5K, nearly 1,600 people from Southeastern and the outside community showed up to join in the fall festivities that took place on October 27, 2013.

The entire day brought excitement as people mixed with characters of various natures, such as superheroes, pirates, and princesses.

“The goal was to have a fall festival day, all things fall. So you run the 5K in the afternoon, then go home, take a shower and come to the festival in a costume,” said Paige Wagner, SEU’s Health and Wellness Coordinator.

Wagner believes that exercise can not only be fun, but is better in community. This is precisely the idea behind the Fire 5K. The event was family-based, bringing out people of all ages and athleticism.

With lively beats welcoming the runners, it was hard not to feel the anticipation. The excitement remained, as with each mile the runner took a break for water, trick-or-treating, and a photo booth to capture all of the fun.

Health and Wellness did a great job getting the word out to the surrounding Lakeland community. There were people from the Lakeland Runners Club, FITniche, and church members from Highland Park Church of the Nazarene.

Children were catered to, as well.

At the beginning of the race, the children were each given a map of Lake Hollingsworth, and at each station they received a stamp proving that they had been there. The children could later enter their map for a chance to win a prize.

“We heard about the event and wanted to be a part of it,” said Joe Cortijo, manager of Nolan’s Aquarium. They donated prizes, such as fish for one of the trick-or-treat stations and 26

a free aquarium for the child who won the map drawing.

As the runners rounded the finish line, refreshments of oranges, water, and granola bars awaited them.

Sweaty, winded, and ready for an afternoon nap, smiling faces could still be seen all around.

“I’d do it [again] tomorrow!” said Jacob Woelke, freshman.

This year following the 5K, SEU’s largest annual event, Fall Fest, was held.

The chatter of lively voices mixed with the music from the live band and excited yelling as various staff members got dunked in the water tank. Mixed among the hay bales and countless characters were various vendors, and the smell of popcorn intermingled with the aroma coming from the many food trucks. The live band covered popular songs, and the tunes mixed with the crooning of happy children.

The purpose of Fall Fest is to welcome the outside community to the SEU campus.

“It gives kids a safe place to go and celebrate!...It’s just a fun atmosphere!” said Kristen Jones, sophomore.

The goal was to give families a safe place to trick-or-treat and have some fun where they otherwise wouldn’t have one. Flyers were handed out to local neighborhoods, coffee shops, restaurants, churches, and schools all in hopes of reaching as many people as possible.

The main attraction of the night was Trunkor-Treat, where several dozen cars were “dressed up” and their trunks filled with candy.

Free haircuts were also given, along with face painting and snacks.

“We’re a culture all about love and [I think] the community can feel that when they come,” stated Ashlyn Hart, a senior at SEU.

27

28

“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.�

Matthew 28:19-20 (NIV)

29

E X P “When Jesus gave us the Great Commission, He said go into Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. And He didn’t start with the ends of the earth. He started with Jerusalem and I think a lot of times we get that backwards…it’s about living intentionally every day, not just when we are overseas,” said Kimber Stepp, the Local Outreach Coordinator. Stepp added that this year was unique due to the intentionality of students living out this year’s theme, “So All the World Will Know.”

In advancement of the Great Commission, Destinations presented a week, known as Exposure, emphasizing the significance of

30

U R S E

missions both locally and globally. Distinct to last year, Exposure started on Monday, which kicked off a week of powerful speakers and exhilarating events; including the introduction of 64 mission trips, the premiere of the Cambodia documentary, the hosting of Destitute Tryouts, and a day of outreach at the Dream Center—all with the intention of seeing a generation burdened for the lost.

“We want to get students familiar with living missionially.

Living missionally is just thinking missionally in the way that you think, the way that you act, and the way that you live, figuring how you can serve other people, how you can share the gospel,” said Michael Mutz, the Local and International Outreach Coordinator at SEU.

Written by: Priscilla Pennington

31

SUMMER MISSIONS “If you really want to reach a nation, like long-term if you want to see a nation change, you really do need to reach the younger generation,” said Mutz.

Last year, in order to reach multiple nations, Destinations launched 34 missions’ trips to countries around the world. One of the largest mission’s trips took place in Honduras. On July 20, having been given a national holiday to share the gospel, around 2,500 missionaries gathered to hold a conference. Students observed God move in an extraordinary way, as more than a million people, ten percent of the population, attended this event.

Across the border, on the streets of Nicaragua, students witnessed and prayed for people passing by. Kimber Stepp, one of the leaders, shared a highlight of the trip, which took place at a waterfall. While leaping off rocks and enjoying the refreshing water, students were able to interact with local Nicaraguans. During a moment of down time, they were granted the opportunity of baptizing three ladies, which led to the salvation of six Nicaraguan men.

“Even your moments of break, in your moments when you are not necessarily having something scheduled, or doing that, taking those moments and making them intentional and seeing who God places in your vicinity at that time, who you could also minister to, not just when you are scheduled ministry time,” said Stepp.

Written by: Priscilla Pennington 32

Ashley Holstien

Kaitlin Russell

Ashley Holstien

Michael Mutz

Ashley Holstien

Kaitlin Russell

Sally Ibarra

Written by: Shayla Petterson Cambodia wasn’t even a trip I was supposed to go on, but thank God for His divine appointments and His spectacular plan that so greatly surpasses anything I could ever ask for or imagine.

In Cambodia, my reality was shaken to the core and I was able to be a part of a movement that is diffusing its way through the heart of Cambodia. This trip was my first time out of the country and let me just testify to the great impact it had upon not only my worldview, but also my understanding of God and His great power.

While there, I got to witness the tangible hand of God through His spectacular works of healing and conversion. I saw a mute speak, someone

Photos by Myles Shank

with blurry sight see, and even witnessed God deliver a woman from demon possession. We had the privilege to minister at a public school, orphanage, drug rehabilitation center, and some village churches. Throughout the trip, I received the opportunity to preach the gospel to many groups and interact with so many beautiful individuals with inspiring and moving stories. I had never preached the Gospel before, and throughout the trip I was terrified that my timidity and lack of experience would hinder my team members. I even remember telling God, “If you can use me at all, that will be a miracle.” Just like He promises, I placed myself in a posture of expectance and He used what

I had to whisper to the hearts of Cambodians the truth about His love that is not bound by our actions or thoughts.

The culture of Cambodia is one deeply burdened with an awareness of human suffering and a religion based upon earning release from pain through acts of devotion to Buddha and the many spirits that torment them. The people desperately need to know of a God who actually cares about who they are, and it was amazing to see the full impact that the message of Christ had on those who live without hope and weighed down by fear.

Cambodia is beautiful, and so is the work that God is doing there.

33

SOUTHEASTERN

SPOTLIGHTS

Laura Harmon

1.

Written by: Michaela Pearson

Residence directors (RD) at

Southeastern are individuals who pour into students and further the community. Laura Harmon, the new RD of South Pointe, Valencia, and Buttercup, has these drives and motivations. Harmon is an alumnus of Southeastern who graduated in 2009 with a degree in education.

After moving to Oklahoma to work with a youth group and as a fourth grade teacher, she realized she not only missed Florida, but the community that Southeastern provided.

“The atmosphere is incredible.

It is very community orientated

34

and student-centered. Being able to live in community with students allows my life to be integrated with work and I am able to focus on the students,” said Harmon.

After being a teacher, Harmon realized she wasn’t able to pour into students the way that she wanted to.

“As an RD, I can help students grow in [their] relationships with God, in their academics, and social aspects, which provide a holistic experience,” said Harmon.

It is Harmon’s dependence upon God and determination for community that makes her someone to truly look up to.

“Community is something that is placed on my heart for the future, but I’m not exactly sure what that looks like. I see life as a journey all while learning to trust God. Each step is preparation for the next. Life is an adventure,” said Harmon.

Courtney Harding

2.

Written by: Michaela Pearson

It is not a secret that Southeastern provides students a friendly and caring environment where they can grow in love. There are some people who help make this environment extra special. Security Guard, Courtney Harding can often be seen riding around campus with friendly waves and smiles.

Like many others, Harding hasn’t always been a Christian. After the second time attending church, he felt convicted and became a Christian. This led to his passion for missions, which has contributed to his love for this community.

“The students bring me great pleasure. I try my best to make students a priority by helping them and approaching them in the friendliest ways possible,” said Harding.

However, it is Harding’s constant determination to complete God’s will that makes him someone to truly admire.

“When I had first gotten saved I remember being on my knees and asking, ‘God, I know you want me to do something, but what is it?’

Then John 20:21 popped into my head, ‘As my Father sent me, I am sending you.’ This verse continually inspires me to do what I am called to do: serve others,” said Harding.

Christian Santiago

3.

Written by: Jeanmarie Johnson

With the many values Southeastern has adopted, servant leadership is among the highest.

Christian Santiago, a sophomore studying Practical Ministries, is a student who takes this to heart and lives it out in his daily life.

During his freshman year, Santiago co-founded Lakeland’s Dakota Park Ministry with his best friend Dylan Renfro. This is a ministry for children who gather in Lakeland’s Dakota Park every Saturday at 11:00 a.m.

The goal is simply to show love.

“Whether it’s playing sports, dancing… just love on them. After

we get them together we do a mini service for them, which includes worship, the word, and [we] finish it off with playing a few more games,” said Santiago.

Along with Dakota Park ministry, Santiago also serves as the head RA for Valencia Hall, a special privilege for a sophomore to have.

“Love and passion for discipleship is what makes me do the things that I do,” said Santiago.

Santiago’s biggest motivation comes from James 4:17, “He who knows the good He ought to do and does not do it, sins.”

“If I know that God has called

me to do something, and I do not do it, then it is sin. It’s scary, but it’s true. It also challenges me to live a life of intentionality every day,” said Santiago.

35

Sandra Roth

4.

Written by: Elizabeth Gifford

Professor Sandra Roth’s enthusiasm for teaching is contagious; and the love students have for her is apparent. What many students do not know is that Professor Roth originally began her education as a journalism major.

Her dream was to be a journalist and travel the world, but it was into her third year in that major that she

discovered the joys of teaching.

While living in North Carolina, Roth heard about a small private school that was in need of a kindergarten teacher. With no experience whatsoever, she decided to go for it, and so began her first year as a teacher. How did she know this was the right profession for her?

“I felt like the Lord’s anointing was there. When I was in the class it was like everything came to life. I sensed God was in it,” said Professor Roth.

When Sandra Roth and her husband of 31 years, Doug Roth, came to Florida just for a visit, they

ended up falling in love with the place.

Professor Roth came to Southeastern University in 2009, where she served as an adjunct professor in the College of Education. One year later, she began her full-time position as an assistant professor of education.

As for the future, Professor Sandra Roth forever sees herself teaching, but ultimately says, “It’s in the Lord’s hands. I just love it here.

The students are so spiritually and academically hungry.”

Caroline Reed

5.

Written by: Priscilla Pennington

On the dusty streets of one of Africa’s most impoverished slums, a Southeastern student reveals the gospel to despairing children. In an instance that shaped her life, Caroline Reed, a senior Psychology major, observed God move in extraordinary ways during her visit through Destinations to Kenya.

“I saw more poverty than my mind could ever imagine, and I heard of more injustice than my heart could bear. At first I doubted God and was extremely angry. But then He comforted and reassured my heart: while our world is fallen, He is good and gracious, and He

36

is able to take care of His children,” said Reed.

This summer Reed will be returning to Kenya to be used by God for a third time.

Outside of Southeastern, Reed spends time investing into the lives of nine 7th grade girls at the First Baptist Church at the Mall.

“It’s really amazing to have conversations with them as they’re learning how to integrate a personal, living faith into their lives. Every week they see how their faith goes against what they experience at school, and how living a Christhonoring life involves much more

than just going to church or coming from a Christian family,” said Reed.

As she graduates this May, Reed’s life reveals that God is using her in many ways in different venues for His designed glory.

Judy Hernandez

6.

Written by: Priscilla Pennington

In the enclosed halls of Bauer, a humble housekeeper offers a cheerful smile to passing students.

When appreciated for all of her diligent work, she acknowledges God working through her.

“God gives me the strength. I don’t give myself the credit. I give all the credit to God. He has given me everything,” said Judy Hernandez.

For almost three years, Hernandez expresses the privilege of working at Southeastern. During her time on campus, she feels blessed for the many opportunities she has had to invest in students’ lives. The one housing complex that she spends the majority of her time in is Bauer.

“To me, it’s more than the cleaning. It’s the guys. I love the guys [of Bauer]. I enjoy talking to them…I enjoy my job because the guys are so sweet,” said Hernandez.

During different sports events, Hernandez sits on the bleachers with her grandchildren cheering

on her guys from Bauer. She even admits she attended Battle of the Dorms in the pouring rain, with her grandson, to cheer Bauer on.

“To me it’s like family. Watching them [the Bauer boys] grow up,” said Hernandez.

Thankful for God’s many blessings in her life, she spends her time outside of SEU giving back through helping others at her church and the Florida Baptist Children’s Home.

“You can’t out give God. When I give He gives me more,” said Hernandez.

Daniel Colaci

7.

Written by: Michaela Pearson

Everyone has felt alone and scared in the beginning stages of a new experience. Daniel Colaci felt the same way when he first came to Southeastern. Colaci is from Luxemburg, a small country in Europe.

After visiting his uncle in Orlando, he desired to come back to the states, and after seeing Southeastern, he knew this is where he wanted to be.

Colaci, now a senior, has had his eyes opened up to a whole new culture and way of life since being a student at SEU. He feels blessed to be at a school where Christianity is coming to life more than ever.

“Coming from a country where

Christianity is dying down, Southeastern is an example of Christianity that is coming back to life and exploring new dimensions,” said Colaci.

Being in the Southeastern community has also opened up his mind to different kinds of people and backgrounds.

“Since I’ve come to Southeastern, I have been exposed to diversity and have become more comfortable with it. I’ve realized that we’re all helping each other out and creating a diverse universe,” stated Colaci.

Southeastern has not only challenged him to open his mind, but

to grow in his faith as well. Colaci was shocked to receive financial aid after he thought he wouldn’t receive any. He feels that God has changed his mentality on giving. After receiving so much aid from Southeastern, it has helped him to realize that God will provide for him in every aspect of life, even financially.

37

38

39

40

On August 21, 2013, through the collaboration of tenacious and innovative leadership, Southeastern University cut a red ribbon to open a new coffeehouse on campus. With the “tossing of coffee beans,� crowds congregated outside to celebrate this momentous occasion. A name befitting to its purpose, Portico, was selected after countless hours of sifting through suggested ideas; a name submitted by Michael Steiner, a senior at Southeastern. Distinctive from most coffee shops, Portico was formed with the objective of not only being a refuge for the community, but also as a means of outreach. The individual selected for the opportunity of managing Portico was Naida Lindberg, an SEU graduate. In an interview with Lindberg, she elaborated on the purpose that Portico serves.

41

How do you guys come up with your drinks?

“The drinks that we came up with are predominately from us working at different shops and seeing what pairs really well together and then making creations of that. A few shops have their own variation of like a Nutella Latte, but you have to play around with what you are actually putting in yours to make it distinctively your own. A lot of the drinks were ideas that we furthered along. I really want to encourage a culture of trying new things and feeling ownership of what you create.”

Written by: Priscilla Pennington

For those who don’t know, what does Portico mean?

“Well, the name Portico means the overhang of a building. More specifically, it is the overhang of ancient temples, and if you know anything about temples, architecture and structure, anyone could be in the overhang. But in the actual temple only certain people could be in there. In the overhang anyone could come, so literally people would gather near and far. It would be the most random group of people coming together for community or just meeting people. The goal and dream of Portico is that this would be a place where people from the community could come.

People from the school could come, [students], faculty and staff, and just find a place to build community, further relationships and meet God in a unique space.”

What is the vision and purpose for Portico?

“Our goal is to roast our own bean that we get from a farmer overseas. And our mission behind that is to create a relationship with the farmer and to sustain their income, so they are able to raise the people from their village to harvest the fields and provide a sustainable income for their communities. Almost like a microloan, but they aren’t paying us back anything. We want to help them sustain and facilitate their way of life and also build a relationship through roasting and learning how to roast the beans they provide. That way we can literally roast a bean that’s from Kenya, and call it a Portico blend or a Southeastern blend.

All the profits, anything we make at the end of the year, go to Destinations. Anything they feel the need to do with it, whether that’s sending students overseas or that’s sustaining the farm overseas, it’s all missional. We don’t keep any of the money for ourselves, we pay all of our employees but all of our proceeds go directly towards missions.”

42

How did your experience at the Ebenezer Coffee Shop shape your ambitions for Portico?

“Ebenezer had a very similar motto. All of their proceeds go directly into their missions programs. When they started, they took a building that was found on Capitol Hill, one of the most busy areas in DC, and they turned it into a place where you could gather for church. People could also come to get a cup of coffee. And you will literally see senators and people that would not necessarily step foot into a church, but they are interacting with the baristas. All of our proceeds go towards furthering a community bigger and greater than ourselves. For me, that just reminded me that it is something we are meant to give back with. Coffee is a great product, but it needs to have something bigger than just being a great product. How that affected me is [that] I saw people [who] were not Christians, and every single day that was kind of a ministry tool. Maybe they wouldn’t come to church with me, but they would let me make them a coffee or have a cup with me.”

What makes Portico different than other coffee shops in the Lakeland area?

“Well as far as it comes to Lakeland, we have a great mission. Uniquely to us, it’s not about us, it’s about them.

I think we hands-down have a great cup of coffee. The quality, the art form, the thought process, I think it makes it unique. Plus, it’s in the heart of our campus. We want people from all parts of Lakeland to come here. We want people who would never in their world drink coffee to come here and enjoy the space, and [to] have those conversations that are life changing. In that way we are uniquely different. We welcome those uniquely to experience this space with us.”

What were you the most excited about for the grand opening?

“I think just giving the space back to the community and the students and the faculty, and everyone. We have had it open and people have been in here. But it’s just our moment to say this is what went into it, this is the thought process behind it. And now it’s yours to completely use the space. It’s just the final step to say, ‘please use this space, to do its goal, and what it was created for.’ And it just lets you hear the story and heart behind it and how it came to be.”

Photo by Liz Colburn

Photo by Liz Colburn

What drink on the menu would you recommend for a first time visitor who who is willing to try basically anything? “I would recommend something called a dirty spiced chai latte, which is chai tea latte with a shot of espresso in it. Basically what the espresso does is it accents the flavor. It allows you to taste both the espresso and chai by giving it an extra dimension. I would try anything in this shop, but if I said to a first timer, I would recommend to them probably that.�

43

44

45

S

AST

ER

N

O

HE T U

HOMECOMING 2013

U

NI

VER

Y T SI

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 13

Red vs. Black Football Scrimmage Southeastern University made history with their first official Fire Football scrimmage. Over 700 people gathered to cheer on their school for the kickoff to homecoming week, setting the tone for next year’s football season. ​The Residence Life team divided the school in half, according to dormitory, by school colors of either red or black. Lakeland High School’s Bryant Stadium was packed out, the colors splitting it in two. ​As President Kent Ingle opened up the 46

game with a prayer, the weight of the significant occasion was felt by all who were in attendance. The timely cold-spell brought perfect football weather, enhancing the enthusiasm of the already spirited crowd. ​After much anticipation, the black team took home its victory with a score of 30-10.

Written by: Jeanmarie Johnson

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 14

Ground Breaking Celebration On November 14, 2013, crowds of students, faculty, staff, and distinguished guests, dressed in black and red, congregated for the ground breaking of two momentous structures for Southeastern University. Through applause and the waving of pompoms, Dr. Kent Ingle announced the introduction of the next fall semester’s Health and Science building and the Football Stadium.

“Our goal is to continue to provide market viable degrees that will always empower Southeastern graduates to enter the workforce and go after the privilege of serving and caring and demonstrating compassion to those who need love,” said Dr. Ingle.

When proceeding to the launch of the new

College of Natural & Health Sciences Building Completed: End of Nov. 2014 | 28,000-square-foot facility 1st Floor 120-seat auditorium Nursing simulation lab 4 exam rooms 4 patient care rooms 2 flexible glass rooms 3 general classrooms Utility room Offices

2nd Floor 2 chemistry labs with 6 fume hoods Hot & cold lab prep. rooms Biology classroom 2 computer labs 3 general lab classrooms 22 faculty offices

football stadium, Dr. Ingle emphasized the abundance of God’s blessings on SEU, revealing a recently endowed estate gift of $10 million that was given from an anonymous donor, the largest financial gift in the history of the university.

“If we continue, as a university, to be generous in how we come alongside our community, especially the gifts God has given our students, God will bless us. And He is blessing us. I think you will agree with me, God is blessing our diligence in being faithful to the task that He has called and placed us in,” said Dr. Ingle.

Written by: Priscilla Pennington

Football Stadium Completed: Aug. 2014 Seating capacity: 3,500 Synthetic turf field Sports lighting 3,200-square-foot meeting room below home grandstands Press box PA & scorers room

Home & visitor radio rooms Home & visitor coaches’ room Media room TV broadcast room SEU media & sports department stats room Rooftop filming capabilities General concessions

Renderings provided by: John Kirk, SCMH Architects 47

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15

Parade & Big Red Bash Students lined El Prado anxiously awaiting the various themed golf carts that students, staff, and faculty had decorated.

Cheerleaders were heard as they started the parade off with a peppy cheer to get everyone in the mood for the grand opening of homecoming weekend. Candy was thrown in the midst of the loud music, laughing, and clapping that permeated the atmosphere.

Students watched the parade in excitement as they saw various themed floats.

It came to a close and everyone made their way towards the Gordon Lot for the Big Red Bash. Sparklers were handed out as everyone scattered to a car smashing, the s’mores pits, or their many friends. The smell of bonfire and laughter filled the air, adding to the unforgettable homecoming night.

Written by: Michaela Pearson

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 16

Tailgating Cookout Spirits were still high from all of the week’s exciting happenings as the students made their way to the annual tailgate dinner. This year, due to the threat of rain, it took some creativity to pull off this longanticipated event.

While the tailgating is typically held on SEU’s quad, this year it was moved into the campus cafeteria, Tuscana Ristorante. Although at first this may have seemed to put a damper on the evening, the shades 48

of black and red that painted the room filled the spirits of all those who entered.

The students stuffed their faces with corndogs, nachos, and mini burgers while waiting in anticipation for the big game—men’s basketball.

The festive food added to the already high-on-school-spirit atmosphere.

Written by: Jeanmarie Johnson

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 16

Men's Basketball Game & Homecoming Court An excited buzz could be felt from the moment the SEU Sportsplex was entered with the anticipation of a thrilling game ahead.

Homecoming 2013 was the final year that basketball would be the focus, which added an extra dose of excitement to the already highspirits. The game was intense, the score remaining neck-in-neck through the entirety of the first half.

The half time show consisted of the introduction of the homecoming court and the crowning of this year’s senior king and queen, Hank Taylor and Darian Woods.

As the game continued, the tension increased, everyone on the edge of their seats in dire hopes of a victory. In the end, the hopes won out and Southeastern took home its win with a score of 107-81.

Written by: Jeanmarie Johnson

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 16

After Party “It was the pinnacle of prodigious—best night of the year!” said Mallory Williamson, freshman.

Students were dressed to the nines as they poured into the trendy venue atop the Destino field. Red Bull hosted a Play and Destroy DJ event, a lively alternative to that of a typical homecoming dance. The Red Bull event captured the attention of the whole crowd, not an easy feat with over 300 people in attendance.

Student’s mingled and celebrated their school together, sardined in the elegant tents placed

under the Lakeland stars.

A dessert bar and free Red Bull kept the energy pumping and the enthusiasm high as the evening progressed. Students were able to capture the night through the do-it-yourself photo booth, a favorite attraction. The evening was even topped off with a surprise proposal.

Written by: Jeanmarie Johnson

49

50

“It is our responsibility to come alongside these students and to provide that opportunity for them to develop, to learn, to discover their divine design in a way that they will go forth, the call that God has placed upon them to serve the world.

They will do it through Spirit

empowerment,

as they learn, as they live, as they lead. And because we are being faithful to that, and we are stewards of His call, God is beginning to bless us in tremendous ways.�

-President Kent Ingle 51

/seuniversity

@seuniversity