SPRING/SUMMER 2016
ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE & CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT for THE GLOBAL MARKETPLACE
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LEADERS ARE MADE. NOT BORN. O N L I N E
P R O G R A M S
B A C H E L O R ’ S MINISTRY AND LEADERSHIP
M A S T E R ’ S LEADERSHIP STUDIES
N O W A C C E P T I N G A P P L I C AT I O N S F O R FA L L 2 0 1 6 B A C H E L O R ’ S
P E N D I N G
W S C U C
A P P R O VA L
VA N G U A R D . E D U / L E A D E R S H I P
FROM THE PRESIDENT
Academic Excellence, Character Development, & Global Perspective WELCOME TO ANOTHER ISSUE OF VANGUARD MAGAZINE! In this
We also feature our most recent Alumna of the Year Erin (Bongiorno ’03)
edition we are exploring and celebrating the way that Vanguard University
Donovan, who, as the Executive Director of HopeSprings in Baltimore,
intentionally cultivates seeds of greatness in each student, delivering a
Maryland, is impacting that community in dynamic ways. While studying
transformational education that equips the student to have a lasting impact
anthropology with Dr. Vince Gil, Erin discovered a lifelong passion for
on his/her community, both locally and globally. Vanguard does this in part
reaching individuals with HIV/AIDS.
by finding ways to invest in the student’s experience, preparing him/her for a vocation but also delivering a broad proficiency in the liberal arts—all through a worldview that holds Jesus Christ at its center. This issue of the Magazine examines Vanguard’s efforts to prepare students
“Vanguard intentionally cultivates seeds of greatness in each student...”
well for their lives after graduation. Such efforts include career mentorship programs, internships, and research opportunities that lead to academic conferences.
Levi Moellering is a student who embodies the virtues of our mission statement. Last summer, with Vanguard’s guidance and support, he traveled alone to Uganda for missionary service. His experience reaffirmed his dependence on the grace of God and solidified his ambition to pursue a PhD in medical anthropology after graduating from Vanguard. The department of anthropology and sociology is just one example of how the different academic programs at Vanguard have pursued significant ways for students to apply what they’re learning in the real world. Dr. Stephanie D’Auria is a sociology professor who is as passionate about teaching as she is about using academic inquiry and research to tackle society’s problems.
The result is that the typical Vanguard student has relevant experience that is very attractive to employers and graduate schools, and is also able to
These are just a few of many people at Vanguard using their education and
demonstrate the integrity and character that is a natural outcome of faith-
relationships from their time here to live powerful lives of purpose!
based education. The lead story of this issue features an example of the kind of mentorship Vanguard loves, between a vocationally successful alumnus and an ambitious and talented Vanguard student. Brett Souza’s ’87 and Danny Ledezma’s ’15 story is just one example of the many successes of the recently launched Career Mentors and Story Shapers programs.
Michael J. Beals PhD President, Vanguard University officeofthepresident@vanguard.edu
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FROM THE VICE PRESIDENT FOR UNIVERSITY ADVANCEMENT
Investing in Student Success WHEN I THINK BACK TO MY TIME AS A STUDENT at Vanguard, one
well as Story Shapers, both of which pair current students with
of the things I’m most grateful for is the way that our faculty and staff
alumni and/or professionals to engage with vocation and discipleship.
invested in my success as a student, and subsequently, in business and non-
You will also read about the many diverse internship opportunities
profit sectors. As Vice President for University Advancement, I am excited
students have at Vanguard, which included church ministry internships
to collaborate with Vanguard’s wonderful faculty, staff, and alumni in the
with the Assemblies of God, social justice internships with non-profits,
development of multiple initiatives to further promote student success.
or government internships with the City of Costa Mesa. Vanguard is also hosting breakfast roundtables at which business professionals are able to share their knowledge with our students, as well as connect with them personally.
It is my vision that every Vanguard student would be paired with a mentor and that we would partner with each student to find him/her a great job. This will not become a reality without the partnership of our alumni and friends.
I want to build on the legacy of Ed Westbrook and other faculty and staff that have mentored students and invested in their success. It is my vision that every Vanguard student would be paired with a mentor and that we would partner with each student to find him/her a great job. This will not Justin with his Vanguard mentor, Ed Westbrook
become a reality without the partnership of our alumni and friends. Would you prayerfully consider engaging in one of our mentorship
When I was a student, business law professor, Ed Westbrook, was a mentor to me. We went to lunch once a week during my time as an undergraduate student. Ed was integral in helping me get my first job, second job, and so on. I am grateful for the degree to
programs this year? We have seen the powerful effect these relationships have on our current students, making it one of the most effective ways we have of investing in their occupational and spiritual success.
which Ed has invested in my success as a human being, student, and business professional. … This issue of Vanguard Magazine is about how Vanguard is creating opportunities for even more students to get connected to mentors
I hope to see you on campus soon! May the Lord continue to bless you and your families.
Sincerely,
like the one I had. You will read about our Career Mentorship program as
Justin McIntee ’98, MBA ’08 Vice President for University Advancement justin.mcintee@vanguard.edu
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M A G A Z I N E
FROM THE WRITER
For this issue of the Magazine, as I interviewed so many people who told me about how the relationships they developed at Vanguard constituted mentorships of lasting significance, I once again couldn’t help but reflect on my own experience. My very first ever class at Vanguard was at 7:30 AM on Monday morning with English professor Warren Doody. While I can’t remember everything about that class, I do count it as noteworthy because it introduced me to a professor who would serve as a mentor to me for the next 15 years—and counting! As an English major with a love for creative writing, I would have many more classes with Warren while a student at Vanguard. My career goals were to apply to graduate writing programs and teach English—in other words, to become just like him. In pursuit of this ambition, Warren allowed me to serve as a teaching assistant at Vanguard, helped me to prepare my applications and writing samples for grad school, and guided my early teaching years with warmth and expertise. He has always been willing to read a thing I wrote and
22 Brett Souza
give me supportive but honest critical feedback. Even last year, when Vanguard’s American Coast Theatre Company produced my first play, a decidedly nerve-wracking personal experience, Warren—himself an accomplished playwright—was an advocate and coach for me through
FEATURES
the entire process. One of the greatest things about lasting mentorship is that, as the mentee matures from a student who believes he/she already knows just about everything into an adult with a vocation of his/her own
Cultivating Greatness 14 Students at Vanguard University benefit from numerous mentorship and internship opportunities that allow them to apply their education in meaningful ways.
and a more “humble” self-image, the relationship evolves to include friendship. I know that I can still go to Warren when I am in need of advice and good counsel, but now we also do what friends do, like talk about good books and movies, see great shows, and go on “double-dates” with our wives. This is one of the hallmarks
Teaching Mentorship 26 Associate professor of education Dr. Sylvia Kane writes about how Vanguard’s illustrious teacher-training program applies principles of mentorship in curriculum and practice.
of the Vanguard experience: through relationship, my education has essentially extended 12 years beyond my graduation and will continue for as long as I am connected to the people here like Warren Doody, who value their work as educators so deeply that they end up becoming so much more.
Rene Scheys ’04 Writer/Copy Editor vucopywriter@gmail.com
Glorified in Unity 28 Vanguard’s most recent Alumna of the Year Erin (Bongiorno ’03) Donovan tackles the AIDS crisis in Baltimore as the Executive Director of HopeSprings.
Prudent Principles 38 After building a prosperous financial services company, Jeff Motske ’88 added successful author and radio show host to his list of accomplishments—as well service on Vanguard’s board of trustees.
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M A G A Z I N E
SPRING/SUMMER 2016 | VOLUME 18 | ISSUE 1
UNIVERSITY GOVERNANCE AND ADMINISTRATION CHAIR, BOARD OF TRUSTEES Doug Green PRESIDENT Michael J. Beals
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PROVOST / VICE PRESIDENT OF ACADEMIC AFFAIRS Doretha O’Quinn VICE PRESIDENT FOR ENROLLMENT MANAGEMENT Kim Johnson VICE PRESIDENT FOR STUDENT AFFAIRS Tim Young VICE PRESIDENT FOR UNIVERSITY ADVANCEMENT Justin McIntee
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CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER Jeremy Moser
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VANGUARD MAGAZINE
DEPARTMENTS 1 MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
34 SPORTS
President Michael J. Beals writes about Vanguard’s commitment to academic excellence, character development, and global perspective.
Vanguard athletic director Bob Wilson retires after 21 years of excellent leadership.
41 VU ALUMNI: CLASS NOTES 5 VU VIEW: ON CAMPUS Catch up on the latest news and events happening around Vanguard University’s campus.
Check out how former classmates and alumni of Vanguard University are utilizing their education to make a difference in the world!
48 MY STORY 30 STUDENT PROFILE Levi Moellering has traveled to Africa for missions trips multiple times in pursuit of his ultimate goal of a PhD in medical anthropology.
Former Vanguard softball player April Munroe was in a car accident that altered the course of her life—but didn’t stop her from an inspiring pursuit of purpose.
32 FACULTY SPOTLIGHT
49 LEARN OF ME
Dr. Stephanie D’Auria imparts her passion for social justice to students in Vanguard’s sociology and anthropology department.
Longtime Vanguard professor Dr. Sheri Benvenuti shares lessons she has learned from a lifetime of ministry and scholarship.
WRITER / COPY EDITOR Rene J. Scheys CREATIVE SERVICES CONSULTANT Tawny Marcus LEAD PHOTOGRAPHER Chauncey D. Bayes CREATIVE SERVICES MANAGER Daniel Kim SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER Candice Co MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST Niki Toro MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST Susie Leonard PUBLIC RELATIONS SPECIALIST / CONTRIBUTING WRITER Holly Clinard
VANGUARD UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA, in compliance with laws and regulations, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, age, disability, national origin, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices or procedures.
VANGUARD MAGAZINE is a free publication published 2 times per year by Vanguard University. All contents copyrighted, 2016, Vanguard University egas, NV. POSTMASTER Send address changes to: Vanguard University Alumni Relations Office, 55 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, CA 92626.
THE MISSION OF VANGUARD UNIVERSITY IS TO PURSUE KNOWLEDGE, CULTIVATE CHARACTER, DEEPEN FAITH, AND EQUIP EACH STUDENT FOR A SPIRIT-EMPOWERED LIFE OF CHRIST-CENTERED LEADERSHIP AND SERVICE.
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ON CAMPUS AT VANGUARD
vu view
Making strides against human trafficking Vanguard’s powerhouse Global Center for Women and Justice is out to make a change. This year’s Ensure Justice Conference kicked off with the Walk for Justice 5K.
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VU VIEW: ON CAMPUS
A Hope to End HUMAN TRAFFICKING
BY HOLLY CLINARD
VANGUARD’S POWERHOUSE GLOBAL
weekend included panel sessions, health
“To stay the course for long term change, we
CENTER FOR WOMEN AND JUSTICE is
care provider trainings and networking
must have a plan to train—much like marathon
out to make a change. And this March, they
opportunities with a focus on providing more
runners—to sustain, and to focus our efforts.”
did just that—over 150 people gathered
aftercare resources for human trafficking
on Vanguard’s campus, and via livestream
victims and their families.
nationwide, for the annual Ensure Justice Conference. The event gathered national and local leaders, students, law enforcement, teachers, and child welfare professionals from across the U.S. and Nigeria, all in the
Conference sessions discussed vulnerable children and illicit drugs, and human
“We have made huge strides in rescuing
trafficking as a community health issue.
captives and prosecuting the traffickers,
Day one ended with a lively Q&A, where
but every day there are more victims and
livestreaming audience members texted
there are more traffickers. So, we have
and emailed questions in, and an in-person
intentionally created a space to do something
audience also raised questions. Other sessions were strategically divided by subject:
“To stay the course for long term change, we must have a plan to train—much like marathon runners—to sustain, and to focus our efforts.” name of social justice. This year’s conference kicked off with a free Walk for Justice 5K, fitting the 2016 conference theme, “A Marathon: To End Human Trafficking.” The
together— to consider our own role in this issue,” said Dr. Sandra Morgan, director of Vanguard University’s Global Center for Women and Justice.
research, educators, healthcare, social services, church leaders, youth outreach, and the Spanish track. With over 21 million people living in slavery today, the Global Center for Women and Justice works diligently in their efforts to end human trafficking and the cyber-exploitation of women and children in Orange County and worldwide.
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FIRST FULLY ONLINE PROGRAMS EXPECTED TO LAUNCH THIS FALL THIS FALL, VANGUARD WILL LAUNCH its first ever fully online programs, including a bachelor of arts in ministry and leadership and a master of arts in leadership studies. The two inaugural programs, pending WSCUC approval, are designed to prepare students for leadership and management in the workplace. The faith-based curriculum is specifically intended for those who desire a high-quality education with the flexibility to continue working in their industry. The bachelor of arts in ministry and leadership will be offered in two formats: eight-week courses on campus or fully online. The master of arts in leadership studies program will be offered in three formats: eight-week courses on
location,” said Dr. Doug Petersen, professor of intercultural studies
campus, fully online, or the hybrid track of three weeks each year
at Vanguard University. “Our faculty who teach in the programs are
on campus and remaining courses online. Curriculum will develop
true experts, with admired academic credentials and invaluable
skills in conflict management, communication, and ethical issues in
industry experience.”
today’s industry.
Interested in applying or learning more about the programs?
“These online programs will make Vanguard University’s top quality
Visit www.vanguard.edu/leadership.
undergraduate and graduate degrees accessible and affordable to anyone who desires to study in these areas, regardless of their
VU Social
@VANGUARDU @JohnMarkComer
GIVE @VANGUARDU SOME LOVE AND YOU JUST MIGHT END UP IN THE NEXT VANGUARD MAGAZINE!
Such a fun day with the crew @VanguardU. Can’t wait for the Late Night #vuChapel event this evening! And the sun…
@WorkAtIrvineCo We enjoyed a beautiful day at the @VanguardU Career Fair meeting some great students. Thank you for having us!
@missemmarosy
vanguardu #vuFinalsRetreat | Puppies from BARK (local therapy dogs)
vanguardu #vuSpringBreak 2016 | Our @vugeo leads a San Francisco Outreach team every year! They partner with @sfcityimpact and several other inner city organizations.
vanguardu THANKS to @from_the_vine for sharing in #vuChapel. We’ll keep your ministry to camps, churches, and retreats in our prayers as you represent Vanguard this summer!
Hard work really does pay off! Grateful for @VanguardU and the numerous experiences, resources, and opportunities it gives its students.
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The Harrington family (right), with past Run for Mercy recipients, the Brock family (left) and the Doyle Family (center).
A Homecoming WITH A HEART
AT THE START OF EACH NEW YEAR,
Harrington began at Vanguard in 1998, but
selected as the beneficiary of this year’s race
Vanguard’s outstanding alumni come together
suspended his studies to join the Army after
during Homecoming Week.
to reminisce on old college stories, share a
the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.
meal or two together, and enjoy the Southern
Two years after his service began, he was
California sunshine on Fair Drive during
diagnosed with the incurable Huntington’s
Homecoming Week. Part of the tradition
disease, and received an honorable
for the past four years has also included the
discharge. In 2010, he and his wife, Heather,
annual Run for Mercy 5K, which raises funds
started the Healing Huntington’s Foundation,
for an alumni family in need.
aimed to improve the lives of those affected by
This January, the fourth annual Run for Mercy 5K raised nearly $3,000 for the Healing Huntington’s Foundation, an organization started by Nathan Harrington `15.
Huntington’s. Their ultimate goal is to establish a retirement home for those with Huntington’s. Harrington recently received his bachelor’s degree in religion from Vanguard in 2015, and was honored to have his foundation
Homecoming Week 2016 also included kids sports camps, a family tailgate party, alumni softball game, baseball games, a worship service and Vanguard University basketball games—all open to the public. Chick-fil-A provided lunch for all 5K participants and volunteers. In addition, local radio station KWVE hosted a live broadcast at the Homecoming events, interviewing Vanguard University president Michael Beals, and the guest of honor and alum, Nathan Harrington.
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Celebrating Diversity IN THE CLASS OF 2016 THIS SPRING, THE VANGUARD
This semi-formal event gathered the great
community supporters who helped them reach
UNIVERSITY COMMUNITY watched one
number of Hispanic students graduating
this milestone.
of the largest graduating classes in its history
this spring, and celebrated all they had
walk across the grand stage of Mariners
accomplished as a class. On the same
Church in Irvine, California. The events were
day, the second annual Black Graduation
broadcast live online, as family and friends
Celebration was held in Needham
tuned in from around the globe.
Courtyard, also a semi-formal event. This
But before the formal Commencement ceremonies kicked off, the university
year also marked the first annual Asian and Pacific Islander Graduation Celebration.
celebrated its growing diversity within the
At each celebration, one student is
student body with the cultural graduation
recognized for their significant contribution
celebrations. The first of its kind to launch,
to the Vanguard Community. Graduates
the third annual Hispanic Graduation
performed song, dance and spoken word to
Celebration was held at Newport Mesa
the audience of family, friends, church and
Church, with a dessert reception to follow.
“The students themselves, who desired an event recognizing their academic accomplishments in a way that was unique to their own heritage and culture, initiated each cultural celebration,” said Dr. April Harris Akinloye, director of diversity and inclusion. The Veterans Challenge Coin Ceremony was also held in April, honoring each graduating veteran student. Graduating nurses received their own custom pin at the traditional Nursing Pinning Ceremony held at Newport Mesa Church, in May.
COMMENCEMENT SPEAKER VISITS FROM OUR NATIONÕS CAPITOL FROM WORKING IN THE WHITE HOUSE PRESS OFFICE to covering U.S. House, Senate and gubernatorial campaigns and Presidential politics, Nathan Gonzales `00 has taken his career to new heights. This year’s Commencement speaker at Mariners Church, Gonzales shared his own wisdom and humor with Vanguard University’s Class of 2016. Gonzales is currently editor and publisher of The Rothenberg & Gonzales Political Report—previously an editor, analyst, and writer for The Rothenberg Political
Report for more than 13 years before taking over the newsletter in 2015. He is also a contributing writer for Roll Call, the Capitol Hill newspaper, and the founder and publisher of PoliticsinStereo.com. Gonzales has appeared on NBC’s Meet the Press and NBC Nightly News, the Newshour on PBS, C-SPAN’s Washington Journal, CNN, and Fox News Channel, and has been quoted in The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, and USA Today.
Just two years after graduating from Vanguard University with a bachelor of arts in communication, Nathan worked for ABC NEWS on their Election Night Decision Desk. An Oregon native, Gonzales was elated to return to the West Coast to speak at Vanguard’s Commencement, visit the campus, and speak with the students.
To order a DVD of the 2016 Commencement ceremony, including Nathan Gonzales’ address, visit www.vanguard.edu/commencement/dvd-video
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C O M I N G T H I S F A L L T O VA N G U A R D ’ S LY C E U M T H E A T E R
BLAME IT ON THE MOVIES! THE REEL MUSIC OF HOLLYWOOD A MUSICAL REVUE CELEBRATING THE GREATEST MUSIC TO COME FROM THE SILVER SCREEN MUSICAL SEQUENCES COMPILED AND CONCEIVED BY RON ABEL, BILLY BARNES AND DAVID GALLIGAN ORIGINAL MUSIC AND LYRICS BY BILLY BARNES | MUSICAL DIRECTION AND ARRANGEMENTS BY RON ABEL DIRECTED BY SUSAN K. BERKOMPAS
With a staggering collection of over 75 of the most well-known songs from the most well-known films ranging from Gone with the Wind to Footloose, Blame It On The Movies! is a delicious romp through cinematic history. Suitable for ages 6 and older
SEPTEMBER 16-18, 22-25, 29-30 & OCTOBER 1-2
A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM AN ENCHANTING COMEDY COMPLETE WITH MISCHIEF, MAGIC AND FALLING IN LOVE B Y W I L L I A M S HA K ESP EARE, DIRECT ED BY K EV IN SLAY
With a royal wedding near, four lovers flee into a dark, eerie forest. There they become pawns in the impassioned battle between Oberon and Titania, the king and queen of the fairies. Taking place in mythical Athens and an enchanted forest, Shakespeare’s most popular comedy is about the world’s most popular pastime, falling in love. But as Puck knows, falling in love can make fools of us all. Suitable for teens and older
OCTOBER 21-23 & 27-30
OPEN ALL NIGHT A COMEDY WITH FAMILIAR CHRISTMAS MUSIC, ROMANCE AND COLORFUL CHARACTERS THAT WILL REMIND YOU OF THE TRUE MEANING OF CHRISTMAS CR EATED A ND D IR ECTED BY VAND A EGGINGTON
The “Do or Dine Café”, run by sisters, Holly and Ivy, sits nestled in their small town where everyone knows everyone and everything about them. Life carries on as it always has until two weeks before Christmas when Grace, a single mother, comes to town with her 10 year old daughter and asks for a job. Together, this mother and daughter brighten the lives of the townspeople and bring back the hope and joy of Christmas to their hearts. Suited for ages 6 and older
DECEMBER 1-4 & 8-11
TICKETS AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE AT VANGUARDTICKETS.COM
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VU VIEW: ON CAMPUS
Late Night Speaker Series Sheds Light on Student Topics symposium at the American Psychological Association’s annual convention, bringing together gay psychologists and conventionally religious psychologists to discuss common ground in treatment options for persons sorting out sexual and religious identity conflicts. Dr. Yarhouse spoke to the students on sexuality and sexual identity, opening up a healthy dialogue in a room full of diverse backgrounds
IT IS WITH DEEP SADNESS THAT WE ANNOUNCE THE
and opinions.
PASSING OF FORMER VANGUARD UNIVERSITY FACULTY MEMBER DR. RANDY DOVEL, ON FRIDAY, APRIL 9.
John Mark Comer, well-known author and pastor, spoke on vocational purpose and calling John Mark Comer
ROUGHLY 650 VANGUARD UNIVERSITY STUDENTS ASSEMBLED in Newport Mesa Church for a student life event that challenged the mind and the soul. The newly launched Late Night Speaker Series takes place four times a year, aimed at educating
in the third session of the year. Comer is lead pastor at Bridgetown: A Jesus Church, part of a
Dr. Dovel came to Vanguard in 2005 after serving as a tenured faculty member at Oregon State University. Having received his PhD from Texas A&M University, Dovel was a trained plant physiologist and served as chair of the
family of churches formally known as Solid Rock
department of biology at Vanguard University for four
in Portland, Oregon—a city with one of the
years, teaching courses in botany, genetics, microbiology
highest percentages of irreligious adults in the
and field biology. Dovel was an active researcher in the
nation. He is also the author of the well-known
field biology, nitrogen fixation, and plant/pathogen
books, Hi, my name is Hope and Love-ology.
relationships for nearly 20 years. During his faculty career, Dovel also was an expert researcher in plant
students on targeted themes within the Four-Year
The final Late Night Speaker session featured
breeding, plant molecular biology, and microbial water
Discipleship Plan established at Vanguard.
Nathan Gonzales `00, board of trustees
quality analysis. Dovel is a member of the Gamme Sigma
member at Vanguard, and editor and publisher
Delta academic honor society and a proud recipient of
of The Rothenberg & Gonzales Political Report,
the E.R. Jackman Team Award, recognizing team and
a non-partisan newsletter covering U.S. House,
interdisciplinary research.
Senate and gubernatorial campaigns and
Dr. Dovel was a teacher and mentor to countless biology
Presidential politics. Gonzales spoke to the
majors at Vanguard. He touched many lives with his
student body about the significance of political
knowledge, wisdom, generosity, and love of Jesus Christ.
intelligence, discussing ways to be involved
Dr. Dovel was married to Vanguard University staff
The first Late Night Speaker Series session covered spiritual development and emotional maturity—a conversation that grew into discussing lifelong spiritual growth in Christ. Dr. John Coe, director of the Institute for Spiritual Formation at Biola University, led the conversation, with a Q&A session held the following day. Dr. Coe is a specialist in the philosophical and theological foundation of the integration of faith and learning, with particular interest in exploring spiritual direction as a compliment to Christian psychotherapy. The second in the four-part series featured Dr. Mark Yarhouse, professor of psychology at Regent University in Virginia Beach, Virginia, where he is a core faculty member in the doctoral program in clinical psychology. In 2000, Dr. Yarhouse chaired a groundbreaking
in local government and make a difference.
member, Teresa Dovel, MA `09, for 35 years and
The alum, who graduated with a bachelor’s in
is the beloved father of Kathryn (Kate) Dovel
communication drew upon his experiences at
`07 and Kallie (Dovel) Thomson`08, and of two
Vanguard University, and how that influenced
grandchildren, Ariella Dovel and Honey Thomson.
his work on Capitol Hill.
Above all of Dr. Dovel’s research and achievements in his
“We hope the Late Night Series continues this trend of being catalysts, sparking thought-provoking conversation amongst our students, staff, and faculty,” said Kayla Holtz, coordinator of new student orientation and transitions.
professional field, he had an enormous love for Jesus Christ. Dr. Randy Dovel will be deeply missed by the entire Vanguard University family. To honor Dr. Dovel, the family has requested that donations be made to Vanguard to provide a scholarship to future promising pre-med students. Visit https:// connect.vanguard.edu/randy-dovel
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RUNNING FOR A REASON Participants in the 2016 Run for Mercy 5K are all smiles as they set off from the course’s starting line. This year’s 5K was held in support of the Healing Huntington’s Foundation, an organization founded by Nathan Harrington ’15. For a recap of all the Homecoming 2016 events, visit vanguard.edu/alumni/homecoming-recap-2016
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As Vanguard University approaches its 100-year anniversary in 2020, it continues to celebrate a strong legacy of academics and service while meeting the modern-day challenges that liberal arts institutions face. Vanguard is actively cultivating seeds of greatness in students to produce Christ-centered leaders in the marketplace. Under the leadership of president Dr. Michael Beals, the University has cast a vision statement to sharpen this revised focus: Vanguard University will become a nationally recognized leader in Christian higher education by cultivating academic excellence, character development, and global perspective as seeds of greatness in the life of every student. “We want students to serve not just all over the world, but also across the street,” says Dr. Beals. “Every day in class, professors and students are cultivating these seeds, so that they will one day harvest the fruit of Vanguard’s holistic approach to education. The result is a student who is not just employable, but the kind of person employers want to hire in terms of their character and global development.” The concrete steps Vanguard takes towards realizing this vision are numerous. In addition to the professor-mentor relationships that have long been a hallmark of a Vanguard education, the University has recently developed career mentor programs that link students with alumni who have experienced success in their vocations. Vanguard continues to populate Orange County and beyond with interns who are well-prepared, highly-motivated, and who have strong integrity. In the following pages, Vanguard Magazine explores the stories of these students and alumni, who found that Vanguard’s commitment to excellence in preparing the student for ministry and vocation is truly holistic.
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A Social STAR IF YOU’VE SPENT ANY TIME IN THE LAST YEAR AT A PARTY holding your
did not go unnoticed. During her four years there, The Ellen Show won two
smartphone up to your forehead while your friends hysterically guessed
Emmys, specifically for its innovative methods for reaching a wider audience
the clues there, then you were probably playing the game “Heads Up,” and
via digital and social media—in other words, Aly’s exact work.
you have Aly (Ruiz ’11) Vogel to thank. In her former role as the person in charge of the digital department for The Ellen Show, Aly helped oversee the development of Ellen’s social media apps, viral videos, and website. The four years Aly worked on The Ellen Show were extremely successful and influential, and helped propel her to her current position as the social media manager for Lionsgate Entertainment. You’ve almost certainly seen Aly’s work in this capacity as well. Aly supervises pretty much everything you might come across online in the marketing and promotion of Lionsgate films and television, including Twitter Q+A’s with the films’ stars, covering the premieres across different social media platforms, and coordinating and producing content in cooperation with the film stars’ own social media accounts. It’s fast-paced, exciting work, and Aly is thankful everyday for the privilege to do it—for she sees God’s hand on every part of her journey so far. This includes getting hired on The Ellen Show with no previous experience right after having graduated from Vanguard University. Aly had attained her degree in communications and sent out hundreds of resumes to film and television studios with exactly zero response. She and her husband had just been married and were heading out of the country for their honeymoon with
Raised in the church, faith has always been a part of who Aly is, and this hasn’t been changed by her work in Hollywood. “I always want people to know about my faith, not just in how I talk about it but also in the ways I behave, especially in very stressful moments. I like to express my faith in every day actions and interactions.” Vanguard University’s department of communication gave Aly an excellent foundation for success in the industry as well as a model for how to be a person of faith in it. “I absolutely loved all four years at Vanguard,” says Aly. “I felt like the comm. department was this wonderful community where we could ‘play’ and learn with cameras and other film-making technology.” It was
“I ALWAYS WANT PEOPLE TO KNOW ABOUT MY FAITH, NOT JUST IN HOW I TALK ABOUT IT BUT ALSO IN THE WAYS I BEHAVE, ESPECIALLY IN VERY STRESSFUL MOMENTS. I LIKE TO EXPRESS MY FAITH IN EVERY DAY ACTIONS AND INTERACTIONS.”
no prospects upon her return when an acquaintance passed on a tip about an open position on The Ellen Show. Aly applied and was hired almost
important for Aly that her professors were engaged in their community and
immediately. “If it weren’t for God putting the right people and places in my
in the film/TV industry. “I loved that my professors had ties to the industry,”
path, I wouldn’t be here,” says Aly. “In my Ellen job and my current job, God
she says. “Ann-Caryn Cleveland had relevant experience, and I was able to
was moving in ways I could not ignore. I knew I was supposed to be here for
freelance with her—and I love that that was the relationship I got to have
a reason.”
with my professors at Vanguard. The high school girls in the group I lead at my church are mostly sophomores, and I’m already hinting at what a great
Aly couldn’t have had a better introduction to working in Hollywood than The Ellen Show. “Coming into an industry that’s notoriously cutthroat and
experience it could be for them to go to Vanguard!”
aggressive, it meant so much to be on a show where the primary concern
As Aly continues her career in an often ruthless industry, she continues to
was to be kind to one another,” says Aly. “Ellen says that at the end of every
receive affirmation that she is in the right place. Her position allows her to
show, and she means it. I loved being on a show that gave back to people. A
influence how people perceive her company’s films on social media, a fact that
number of other TV hosts make fun of others at their expense, but Ellen never
takes on new significance when that film is explicitly faith-based. “Lionsgate
did that. She had movie and TV stars on, but she also had regular people and
is turning the book The Shack into a movie,” she says. “I just saw the first cut
everyday heroes, like a mother who needed a heart transplant or a young
last week. While I watched it, I thought to myself, ‘When I was reading this
girl with cancer. Ellen took those people’s dreams and made them come true
book as a student at Vanguard, how could I ever have imagined that I’d one
beyond what they could ever realize.” Aly’s hard work on The Ellen Show
day be working on it as a movie?’ But it’s not that crazy; it’s God.”
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BRETT SOUZA ’87 MENTOR, CORPORATE LAWYER
DANNY LEDEZMA ’15 PROTÉGE, LAW STUDENT
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EMBRACING MENTORSHIP BRETT SOUZA AND DANNY LEDEZMA TELL THEIR MENTORSHIP STORY AS ONE ASPECT OF A COMPREHENSIVE INITIATIVE to engage alumni
A partner at the firm Bryan Cave LLP, Brett has been a practicing
and add value to students’ academic and vocational preparation,
attorney for over 20 years. He specializes in mergers and acquisitions,
Vanguard University has recently developed a number of mentorship
financing, and advising companies on corporate matters. Brett is the
programs that connect current Vanguard students with former ones.
head of recruiting for the Irvine office of Bryan Cave, which puts him
The Career Mentors and Story Shapers programs give alumni the
in charge of cultivating relationships with prospects out of law school.
opportunity to share what they have learned in their careers with those
This is an intricate and delicate practice, so Brett is highly skilled at
who need it most: students who are on the cusp of their own.
mentorship. It’s an essential part of his work. This is why his pairing
The Career Mentor program bridges the gap between the rigorous
with Danny was such a gift. “I couldn’t have been blessed with a better
education students have received at Vanguard, and the application of
mentee when it comes to Danny,” says Brett. “I’ve had many great
that education to their vocation beyond graduation, while Story Shapers
mentors in my life, who filled the void between what I knew and what I
allows students to ask larger faith questions of alumni as their journeys
didn’t know, but I wasn’t sure how I would feel about being one in this
have continued after Vanguard. The programs have met with success
context. Then I met Danny, who reminded me of myself at that age. He
and enthusiasm, and one of the many flourishing pairings was Vanguard
wanted to figure out if law school made sense to him, but he had no
student Danny Ledezma ’15 and corporate lawyer Brett Souza ’87.
visibility into the process. Danny’s a young man from a disadvantaged background where his parents worked hard for everything they had, so I
While in his senior year at Vanguard University, Danny Ledezma was
knew he had hunger. He just needed to know what to work hard at.”
a psychology major with a deep-rooted desire to stand up for the little guy, a passion that grew directly from his upbringing. Danny was the first from his large Hispanic family to go to college, so his formative experiences were of watching his parents, both from Mexico, work hard and trust God to make a life in the United States. Danny also saw time after time a system that attempted to take advantage of his parents, and as he became empowered by his Vanguard education, he realized it gave him tools to help people like his parents. He decided to pursue a career in law so as to make helping people his profession. “Being a lawyer means you can be a professional advocate for other people,” he says. “Some people don’t consider law to be a helping profession, but it is. This is something I learned from professor Ed Westbrook, who shared stories with us of cases he had worked on in which he was able to help people through his compassion as a lawyer.”
“I’ve had many great mentors in my life, who filled the void between what I knew and what I didn’t know, but I wasn’t sure how I would feel about being one in this context. Then I met Danny, who reminded me of myself at that age.” BRETT SOUZA
“It was a godsend,” says Danny. “I was so nervous before I met him Danny had passion and education; he just needed guidance. The process of applying for entrance into law school is fraught with complexity, and Danny was attempting to navigate it alone, before Vanguard paired him with a lawyer through the Career Mentors program. That lawyer was Brett Souza.
because of his impressive credentials on paper, but at our first meeting I realized he is so intentionally present. He’s likable and passionate about everything, and he took helping me very seriously. It meant so much to me that he would make time to talk to a 21-year-old who knows nothing about law school, and do it with patience and no sugarcoating.”
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At each of their meetings, Brett gave Danny specific insight into the process of applying to law school and “homework” that was geared towards helping him discover the important qualities by which to judge prospective schools. By the time Danny had been accepted into each of the law schools he had applied to, he was faced with another huge decision: which one to attend. Even though at that point the mentorship
“I was so nervous before I met him because of his impressive credentials on paper, but at our first meeting I realized he is so intentionally present. He’s likable and passionate about everything, and he took helping me very seriously.” DANNY LEDEZMA
program had officially ended, Danny emailed Brett to see if he’d be willing to extend his guidance to this decision. “He responded right away, walked me through the process, and even introduced me to a junior associate at his firm to give me even more insight,” says Danny. “Brett told me about what is and isn’t important to do as a law student, he debunked myths about it, and he gave me tips on how to be a great law student.” With the benefit of Brett’s support, Danny eventually chose Pepperdine University School of Law, where he is completing his first year.
Danny doesn’t take this lightly. Vanguard’s investment in his success, as expressed through Brett’s confident guidance, is so important to him, and in Danny’s eyes it is all part of the package of God’s constant provision. “Statistically speaking, my family shouldn’t have been successful,” says Danny. “My parents married and had children while very young, they had no money, they are Hispanic. Yet now I have made it to law school and my parents have established a great life for our family. I remember
For Brett, this kind of support was natural to lend Danny because it gave
one day, I was feeling particularly worried about whether my grades and
him the opportunity to invest in Vanguard the same thing that Vanguard
scores were good enough to get into law school, and my father said to
had invested in him. “I was a poorly prepared student who had not taken
me, ‘God has never let us down. He has always been there for us. Think
high school seriously,” he explains. “At Vanguard I found very embracing
of the times when he put food on our table. If he didn’t leave us then, he
and caring people who didn’t let me fall through the cracks. It was a safe
won’t now.”
place where I felt nurtured and cared for. I fell in love with it.”
So Danny can feel confident that his vocation as a lawyer will give him
The Career Mentors program is surely an example of this. It represents
ample opportunity to help others no matter what kind of law he ends up
just one of the ways Vanguard is committed to student success while
practicing. Brett is an example of how faith shapes a person’s vocation,
never losing sight of one of its core values in building and maintaining
whatever it is. “How could it not?” he asks. “We are called to be the
relationships. And it shows how Vanguard’s commitment also extends
light. It’s not about how good we can be but about how much God can
beyond the student’s time here, into a life where difficult times must be
use us. God shines his light through us.”
met with hard work and trust in God. A mentor’s guidance during this time is invaluable. “Hard work, persistence, and coachability—that’s the magic,” says Brett. “To give students opportunities to hear and accept advice from someone who has the experience makes the whole process of education better. Vanguard is creating those opportunities.”
Become a CAREER MENTOR
This is perhaps the most essential outcome of Vanguard’s Career Mentors program. Students gain insight into the vocation, but even more importantly, about how to continue living a life of deep faith through that vocation. This is the definition of student success at Vanguard University.
MENTOR A STUDENT 1-1 STUDYING TO SUCCEED IN YOUR FIELD. These semester long relationships involve 5 meetings that best fit your schedule, and curriculum is provided. Fall and spring semester opportunities are available.
Questions? Contact careerservices@vanguard.edu or 714.619.6474.
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AN EMPOWERING INTERNSHIP KROCHET KIDS INTL. HAS LONG BEEN
takes on a new group of interns from all across
help? What role do I have to play? I was able to
considered a Vanguard University success story,
the country. Krochet Kids’ program isn’t just
see the reality of the world and the bigness of
founded by Vanguard alumni with support
about getting inexpensive staff to supply the
it.” Through an engaged and culturally relevant
from faculty and held up as an example of
office with lunch—Nic makes sure that interns
program, Nic helps interns at Krochet Kids
how the intersection of nonprofit and business
learn valuable lessons that impact their lives.
discover answers to these same questions.
practice can be successful while impacting the
“We’ve developed a curriculum that supports
world in a positive way. One essential aspect of
the interns’ growth and their story,” he says. “We
Nic learned how to ask and answer questions like
Krochet Kids’ commitment to different levels
teach them about issues that they care about,
this while a student at Vanguard, and as he hired
of community engagement is its internship
such as global poverty and development, and help
Vanguard students as interns, he discovered that
program, led for the last six years by Director of
them apply their strengths and skills with passion.
they were, like he was, well-prepared to tackle
Community Involvement Nic Lauten Õ07.
We support them as they think about their lives
issues of social justice in the developing world.
and their own empowerment.”
Nic’s most important practice in this regard came through his participation on the speech and
Nic was Krochet Kids’ first full time employee, travelling to Uganda shortly after graduating
One of the most important things Nic is able
debate team. The critical thinking he learned as a
from Vanguard to serve as its In-Country
to teach Krochet Kids interns is to embrace a
member of the team opened his eyes to the world
Director. As the company experienced the
sense of adventure, and of trusting God in the
and the way governments and organizations can
growing pains that often come with success,
face of the unknown. These are the lessons he
effect change in it. “I was able to apply what I
it looked for ways to get extra help while
himself learned when he went to Uganda to work
learned in the classroom to the real world,” he
maintaining its engagement in the community.
for Krochet Kids just a month after graduating
says. “Combined with my outreach trip to eastern
Internships proved to be a viable option, and in
from Vanguard. In those early years, Nic had to
Europe with Ed Rybarczyk, and my time as an
partnership with Vanguard University, Krochet
learn about and engage in the community before
RA under the leadership of Tim Young, I was put
Kids piloted its first internship program, using
he could take action and be trusted. Alone, he
on a personal path to freedom to move overseas
Vanguard students. Because of the quality and
navigated the ins and outs of doing business in
and embrace a sense of adventure.”
preparedness of those students, the program had
Uganda, meeting with other organizations, filing
a great foundation. “We found Vanguard students
paperwork with the government, developing
This adventure was cultivated and explored in
to be driven and extremely capable, as well as
relationships and discerning who was in need and
the supportive community at Vanguard. “There’s
perfect culture-fits in understanding the bigger
who could benefit from support. “It was a hard
so much rad community here. The friends I’ve
picture of our work and vision,” says Nic.
and lonely—but also epic and rewarding—time
made and the kind of people here are grounded
in my life,” remembers Nic. “Every day I was
in the pursuit of Christ, and open to exploring
Under Nic’s leadership, the program has grown,
faced with big questions about God and the
different aspects of it: intellectually, spiritually,
and now three seasons a year Krochet Kids Intl.
world: how does God see poverty? How do we
and experientially.”
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Rick Francis with Vanguard student intern Jasmine French ’18, a business administration major.
GREAT NEIGHBORS, GREAT INTERNSHIPS ONE OF VANGUARD UNIVERSITY’S DEEPEST PARTNERSHIPS with an organization that
ethic and high integrity—exactly what he gets with
wherever they end up. It’s transformative and life-
Vanguard students. “All of them have been rock-
changing.” Through their partnership, both Rick
provides internships is also one of the closest:
solid,” he says. “From Vanguard we have been
and Vanguard are equipping students to apply
right next door at Costa Mesa’s City Hall. The
getting phenomenal people of character, who are
the knowledge and the skills they acquire as part
last few years have seen a number of Vanguard
reliable, self-initiators, and extremely motivated
of their education in order to have a positive and
students placed in excellent internships for the
They get work done. It speaks highly to the quality
tangible effect on the community.
city, and this relationship has been cultivated
and caliber of the Vanguard education.”
in large part because Vanguard has an “inside
One of the programs under Rick’s oversight is the The benefits of the partnership cut both ways.
Costa Mesa Homelessness Initiative, and it has so
Students who intern for City Hall have merely
far been very effective. Approaching the issue with
to walk across the parking lot, and they are
compassion and accountability, Rick has a team
immersed in the operations of a municipality
that works hard to match people to new housing,
at work. They get to witness government in
to respond appropriately to those who turn down
action, according to Rick, and not just from the
assistance, and to govern the concerns of home
perspective of pushing paper or getting coffee. “A
and business owners. Rick’s balanced approach
lot of companies regard interns as menial labor,
always affirms each person’s essential dignity,
but we don’t adopt that mindset,” says Rick.
and is a hallmark of his servant-leadership. The
“When interns leave, they will have dealt with
homelessness initiative also gives student interns
As Assistant CEO, Rick collaborates with the
the public on important issues, learned critical
irreplaceable real-world experience. Interns are
CEO in the operations of the city. They manage
thinking skills, grasped how local government
able to observe members of the faith community
nine separate departments—such as Parks and
works, seen policy makers in action, and observed
whom the city of Costa Mesa has partnered with
Recreation, Public Safety, and the Homelessness
election processes. They’re in the thick of it. We
as they assist check-in for homeless programs
Initiative—and oversee more than 500 employees.
include them in what we do.” It’s no accident
providing showers and laundry, help create works
A typical intern will be plugged into many
that Rick talks about his internships the way
projects for homeless individuals, and evaluate
different roles for many different city services, so
Vanguard talks about its academics. “Students
them for housing while they assess their needs.
Rick is looking for individuals with a great work
take in a lot of information and they can use it
The city keeps track of these needs through
man” at City Hall. Rick Francis Õ87 is one of two Assistant CEO’s for Costa Mesa, and a Vanguard alumnus. As such, he is intimately familiar with the very high quality of the typical Vanguard student’s character and education, and so he has helped facilitate a number of internships for Vanguard students. So far his trust has been rewarded, as each Vanguard student has exceeded his expectations.
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COMPANIES AND ORGANIZATIONS AT WHICH VANGUARD HAS PLACED INTERNS: American Coast Theatre Company Applied Financial Planning Autism Interventions and Resources Bridge of Life Church Capin Crouse LLP Castle & Company, Inc. Chick-Fil-A City of Costa Mesa
Love 2 Learn
Brave Grace Equine Therapy
Mason-Lite
Casa Youth Shelter
MIKA
Christian Life Church
Redline Detection
David Travel
Royal Family KIDS
Fry’s Market
Safe Harbor
Future Media Concepts
St Peter’s By-the-Sea Presbyterian Church
Global Family Care Network
Tri City Christian School
Proof Positive ABA Therapies Rene Haynes Casting Revelation Films Rockharbor Church
Saddleback Church
Kidworks
Senator Mimi Walters
Clarity-Vanguard AG program
Trinity United Presbyterian Church
Cornerstone Christian Fellowship
Univision
County of Orange
Vanguard University
DMW Industries Inc.
24 Hour Fitness
E-Squared
31 Bits
Hurley International
Alpha Athletics
Kimco Staffing
Best Western Newport Mesa Inn
Orange County Probation Department
LeVecke Corporation
Blind Children’s Learning Center
Position Music
Mariners Church
Stellar Productions
Martillo Pictures
Thomas House Family Shelter
MercyHouse
Tri-City Medical Center
Municipal Water District of Orange County
William J. Perry Center for Hemispheric Defense Studies
Newport Mesa Church
develop a program that enabled the county to
Vanguard professor Ed Clarke, who created
identify potential juvenile offenders and the
one of the most accurate methods to count
factors that caused them to become repeat
homeless populations in the country. Rick
offenders. By recognizing these factors—
currently has a Vanguard student working
things like a disrupted home life, a lack of
with the Homeless Initiative named Jasmine
education, and emotional trauma—Rick and
Ezell Õ16, an anthropology major sent his
his team were able to intervene early and
way by Vanguard professor Vince Gil.
make a huge difference in how they grew up. The success of the program was a great
This is just one of the ways Rick serves
example to Rick of how he could use his
his community in his role. His penchant
calling to help others in the context of his
for combining strong leadership and
government vocation.
management skills with a desire to help people was established soon after he
Rick knows that this is one of the things
graduated from Vanguard, when he got
he’s equipping Vanguard student interns
a job for the Orange County Probation
to understand as well. Including them in
Department. At Vanguard, he had studied
the issues and concerns of city government
to go into youth ministry, influenced by
challenges their faith as it provides them
Jim Burns and Doug Fields, professors
with tangible experience to apply to their
who modeled for him the relational aspect
education. “We’re exposing them to the
of Vanguard’s community. The probation
real world and the real marketplace,” says
department wasn’t youth group, but working
Rick. “They’re more aware of what’s really
with young people who were incarcerated
going on, and so it’s impossible for them to
gave Rick an entirely new perspective on
leave naïve. They deepen their faith as they
“youth ministry.” He worked his way up to
consider new things and gain experience in
a supervisor position and was selected to
the real world with its many challenges.”
Rockreation Climbing Gym Royal Family KIDS
Good City Mentors
a database established by the work of
Power Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine
How to Hire a
VANGUARD INTERN
1
REGISTER YOUR COMPANY FOR A LIONSLINK ACCOUNT
2
CREATE AN INTERNSHIP JOB DESCRIPTION and post it on
at vanguard.edu/lionslink. Our online job board, LionsLink, allows employers to post jobs and internships exclusively to Vanguard students and alumni.
LionsLink. Students will apply for the position directly through LionsLink.
3
HIRE A VANGUARD STUDENT.
It is the student’s responsibility to attain approval from the appropriate academic department if the internship offered is an academic credit position. Questions? Contact careerservices@vanguard.edu or 714.619.6474.
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A SPIRIT-FILLED VOCATION WHEN VANGUARD UNIVERSITY WAS FOUNDED IN 1920, it was known as Southern California Bible School, and its mission was very specifically to train students to become ministers and missionaries of the Assemblies of God. As it grew
HERE’S HOW You CAN INVEST IN STUDENT SUCCESS AT VANGUARD
over the years to become a fullyaccredited liberal arts college and then university, Vanguard’s educational mission expanded to include many other disciplines, but its Christ-centered, Spirit-empowered identity was never departed from. Vanguard has always considered the work of preparing students for vocational ministry an essential part of its ambitions, and it pursues this goal with the excellence that marks all of its academics.
FALL and SPRING CAREER MENTORING Mentor a student 1-1 studying to succeed in your field. These semester long relationships involve 5 meetings that best fit
One important way that Vanguard helps train students for ministry is
your schedule, and curriculum is provided.
by offering internships in partnership with its home district, the SoCal Network Assemblies of God. The SoCal Network provides the means for Vanguard to place students in certain Assemblies of God churches within a 30-mile radius of the campus. The students and the churches are chosen and paired very carefully. While Vanguard cultivates ministry-mindedness in all of its students irrespective of vocation, the students placed in this
ROUNDTABLE BREAKFASTS These one-time breakfasts allow experienced professionals to connect with students by sharing how to have a successful career.
particular internship are those who have chosen a career in ministry. And while there’s no doubt many churches might seek excellent Vanguard students as interns, churches are chosen based on their ability and willingness to truly mentor the student. “We want students to be able to do more than just move chairs,” says Anita Hann, assistant director of church relations. “Of course, it’s okay if they do that kind of work, but our goal is also to put students in churches where they can be mentored and trained
RESUME REVIEWS and MOCK INTERVIEWS Join other professionals, with a one-time commitment, by blessing students with valuable career advice.
and learn about vocational ministry.” One of the natural byproducts of the intentionality in this partnership between Vanguard and SoCal Network is that many churches have such great experiences with their Vanguard interns that they hire them on after the student’s graduation. One church Anita Hann recalls was so thankful for the quality of student that came to them from Vanguard that they
GUEST SPEAKER SERIES Brings recognized business leaders from surrounding regional companies to campus to discuss their careers and faith with students.
themselves provided funding to add two more—Vanguard students are that vital to that church’s culture and ministry. In another case, Vanguard partnered interns with a church plant, where the students worked with the church’s leadership before they launched. “Those students learned what it takes to build an Assemblies of God church,” says Anita. “It was so powerful for them to see church happen from the ground up.”
STORY SHAPERS Mentor a student 1-1 by listening, sharing God’s insights on your life, and helping a student thrive at Vanguard. This semester long relationship involves 8 meetings, and training is provided.
The internship program is entirely in line with Vanguard’s goal to be an institution where education comes with tangible opportunities and Vanguard,” she says. “We individualize these internships based on the
TO INVEST IN STUDENT LIVES THROUGH MENTORSHIP OR IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS CONTACT:
students’ gifts, calling, and passion, and the experience helps shape the
careerservices@vanguard.edu • 714.619.6474
applications, according to Anita. “It shows that ‘your story matters’ at
students’ passion through mentorship. We are taking education out of the classroom and into a world that needs people to minister to it.”
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ALUMNI PROFILE
CRAFTING A STORY FOR THE NATURAL WORLD AS THE SOCIAL MEDIA COMMUNITY PROGRAM MANAGER for the large outdoor equipment retailer REI, Lance Trueb ’09 is far more interested in stories than in products. He has the luxury of this interest because of the unique priorities of REI, the nation’s largest consumer co-op. Unlike a publicly-traded company with quarterly meetings, REI doesn’t respond to shareholders; it responds to co-op members and employees. This freedom allows for REI to focus on one of its primary missions, which is to inspire people to spend time outdoors. Lance tells the story of the brand through the stories of the people who are so inspired. Though Lance was not a marketing or business major at Vanguard University, his current career lines up perfectly with the interests he expressed there. A communications major, Lance was fascinated by the intersection of story and message, storyteller and audience. “I loved learning about the nuance of how you craft a story and message to break through a noisy world,” says Lance. During
high schools about how human trafficking was
unique twist: a portion of every sale was donated
his time at Vanguard, Lance was a co-captain of
happening in our neighborhoods and how we could
to organizations battling human trafficking around
the speech and debate team, an experience that
be part of the solution was eye-opening for me.”
the world. Lance was once again working hard to
burnished his ambitions to communicate ideas
Lance was able to live out his faith and education
convince an audience (Seattle coffee lovers) that his
effectively. And he gained practical and meaningful
together. “At Vanguard, people don’t just talk about
message was significant (his coffee and his cause
experience with sharing life-changing ideas through
their faith in God, but let it shape their experience.”
were good). After completing his graduate program,
his involvement in the club Live2Free, the humantrafficking awareness club led by Sandie Morgan.
“I loved learning about the nuance of how you craft a story and message to break through a noisy world.” “Being part of this group, and eventually going on to become the first president of Live2Free, played a major role in shaping how I understood God’s heart for justice,” he says. “I didn’t have to wait until graduation to take action. Speaking at local
Lance was looking for ways to put his marketing Lance’s journey wasn’t a straight line from Vanguard
skills to use, and that’s when he began work at REI.
to REI, but it has never strayed far from a passion for shaping meaningful stories. After graduation
There, he found a company that allowed him to
Lance took on the challenge of youth ministry, and
live out the priorities of his faith. “What REI is
in addition to the community aspect, what he loved
about in its core is something I can stand behind
most was finding ways to communicate the message
as a Christian,” he says. “We want to tell stories,
of the gospel with relevance to his “audience”
protect the land, and preserve it for people and their
of young people. He invested in that work fully,
families to have access to it. At REI, we like to say
knowing that it was for a season. Eventually God
that a life outdoors is a life well-lived.” It’s not lost
called him to continue his education with more
on Lance that a “life outdoors” is also a life that is a
specialization, and he moved to Seattle to begin
witness to God’s creation. “We are using words like
a graduate degree at University of Washington in
‘stewardship.’ The values of this company extend
Communication Leadership, with an emphasis
beyond just the bottom line. We celebrate the
in digital media. For all the years he was in grad
outdoors, cherishing it and helping people perceive
school, Lance also was employed at Storyville
it as valuable.”
Coffee Company, a start-up coffee shop with a
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TEACHING MENTORSHIP & MENTORING FUTURE TEACHERS ccording to Merriam-Webster dictionary (2016) a
The Vanguard credential program is a quite rigorous program. As the
mentor is someone who teaches or gives help and
candidates’ teacher and mentor, I frequently find that I am a shoulder
advice to a less experienced and often younger person.
to cry on when the rigor of the program becomes overwhelming, or
The term “mentor” was acquired from the literature of
when an unsatisfactory score is received on the subject matter CSET
ancient Greece. When Odysseus was away from home
exam, or the California Teaching Performance Assessment (TPA), a
for twenty years fighting and journeying he left his son Telemachus to
required assessment for every California teacher. I seek to encourage
grow up under the supervision of Mentor, an old and trusted friend. As
the candidates to learn through the struggles while also rejoicing over
a Vanguard faculty member I find myself in this honorable and
the triumphs and praying for personal needs. We begin every class with
influential role, and, I believe I can say this for all faculty, we do not
a scripture, devotion, and prayer, which many of the students have later
take it lightly.
reported was the encouragement they needed at that time to press on.
I am the Graduate Education cohort faculty leader for the single
We know from experience that prayer and encouragement bring about
subject credential program at Vanguard and I teach teacher candidates
a positive mindset, which is corroborated by research. According
who aspire to become middle or high school teachers. I have the
to Stanford University psychologist, Carol Dweck (2006), and her
privilege of teaching and mentoring these candidates to become the
decades of research on achievement and success, mindset is a simple
best teachers God has called them to be. In Graduate Education, we
idea that makes all the difference. In a fixed mindset, people believe
consider teaching to be a calling, and we encourage the candidates to
their basic qualities, like intelligence, are simply fixed traits. They
reflect back on when they felt “called” to this honorable profession
believe that talent and intelligence create success, without much effort.
and to possibly reconsider if they have chosen it as job with the benefit
When they struggle they believe this is due to their lack of intelligence
of having summers off. I consider myself to be a part of the students’
or talent. Whereas, in a growth mindset, people believe their basic
journey and together we navigate our lives through the struggles and
qualities can be developed through dedication and hard work. This
challenges of assignments, lesson plans, and state teacher exams. We
view creates a love of learning and a resilience that is essential for
attempt to balance all this with as little impact as is possible on families
great accomplishments. They understand that the struggle is part of the
and relationships, which is sometimes the biggest challenge of all.
growth process and that God has created our brains to be malleable and grow new dendrites when we persevere through challenges. This also aligns with the word of God. Colossians 3:23 tells us, “And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men.” Also, one of my favorite scriptures, Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me,” exhorts us to persevere for the prize. These scriptures remind us that God will reward our hard work and perseverance if we do it as unto Him. California teacher credential candidates are required to complete their student teaching assignments in public schools. My goal as a teacher mentor is to encourage every Vanguard single subject candidate to have a positive impact on his or her students by demonstrating a Christ-
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like character, valuing every diverse student, and displaying a strong
of content in a lesson plan that I never would have imagined on my
work ethic. These are qualities, we, as Christians can bring to the
own. We collaborate and sometimes decide that this could possibly
public schools. With the upcoming teacher shortage there is need for
work, or else we conclude that the lesson where students pop balloons
quality teachers in our schools, public or private; teachers who view
or explode a pumpkin in the classroom might be a bit disruptive! In
every student as God’s creation with untapped potential. I exhort the
addition to this, I also have the privilege of collaborating with some
candidates with the notion that if God truly directs their steps, then
who have secured a teaching position and come back a year or two
perhaps every student that walks through their classroom door has
later as “real” teachers for advice concerning a struggling student or a
been designated by Him to do so. This could very well be the student
challenging class.
that will one day say, “I succeeded because Mr. J believed I could succeed!” Vanguard holds a treasure trove of teachers for such a time as this. I liken our teacher candidates to missionaries in a foreign land. While they do not have the liberty of spreading the Gospel with their words, they can do so with their actions.
Educators are life-long learners, always seeking to refine our craft. It is through the practice of collaboration and reflecting on our practice that we engage in the improvement cycle of: plan, teach, reflect, and refine. Demonstrating this practice in the cohort class as they present their mock lessons ensures that this reflective practice becomes an
Before coming to Vanguard, I was a Christian public school teacher
ongoing part of their teaching. As a teacher and mentor, I seek to
and instructional coach for seventeen years. I believe God enabled me
improve my teaching and learning and to continually improve my craft
to have these experiences which now guide my mentoring of future
by listening to my students, re-tailoring my lessons and finding the
teachers. I am able to share real life experiences and the challenges I
gaps in my instructional practices. It is an honor to teach and mentor
faced in the public school arena, and how God brought me through.
Vanguard’s single subject credential candidates and I am blessed
I have shared how I prayed for the students on my class rosters at
to be a small part of these future teachers’ lives. As with Odysseus’
the beginning of the school year, and anointed the seat of the most
Mentor, I hope to be called an old and trusted friend for each of the
challenging student before class. I began every day asking God for
single subject candidates that come through the doors of Vanguard’s
wisdom concerning my students and my teaching and I asked for His
Graduate Education program.
help to shine for Him. When Jesus told us to “go into all the world and preach the Gospel” I believe He might have had us teachers in mind. My students are not the only benefactors of this mentoring relationship; I also benefit greatly. I thoroughly enjoy watching these eager teacher candidates at the onset of the program, excited about doing what they have always wanted to do, and watching them grow throughout the year as they collaborate over best practices and the theories behind those practices. It is then pure joy when I embrace them at their Master’s commencement and follow them on social media as they become knowledgeable and confident teacher leaders. I
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Dr. Sylvia Kane is an associate professor of education at Vanguard University. She received her BA and MA from California State University-LA and her Ed.D from Azusa Pacific University. Dr. Kane teaches the Single Subject Curriculum and Instruction cohort.
have also learned much through my students. It is not infrequent that a student comes up with an innovative and creative idea on the delivery
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ALUMNI PROFILE
GLORIFIED IN UNITY
AT HOMECOMING 2016, Vanguard
reach, because we help empower the local
see the church in a different way,” says Erin.
University honored Erin (Bongiorno ’03)
church to serve as the incarnated hands and
At the same time, Erin must give the churches
Donovan as Alumna of the Year, recognizing
feet of Christ.”
she works with in Baltimore the opportunity
her for the work she does in Baltimore on behalf of individuals who are infected and affected by HIV and AIDS. Erin is the Executive Director of HopeSprings, which exists to awaken, equip, and engage the faith community to respond to the HIV epidemic in Baltimore and beyond. “We awaken through education, equip through training, and engage through service,” explains Erin. “The idea is to take the church out of the four walls to serve one of our most vulnerable populations. We are a small organization with a large
to see those with HIV/AIDS in a different way It’s not easy work. The population that HopeSprings serves lives squarely on the margins of society with respect to race, gender, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic status. Generally speaking, it’s a population that views the church with skepticism, and it breaks Erin’s heart to explain that this skepticism is often rooted very deeply in personal experiences. “We are serving people who have had really bad experiences with the church, and we are trying to restore that relationship so that they
as well. HopeSprings doesn’t require churches to agree on every aspect of doctrine in order to help; they need only believe in one: that the love and grace of Jesus Christ is for everyone. “We call believers to build relationships with the people in this community, irrespective of doctrinal differences. God is glorified in this unity in the body of Christ. We are united in our one goal, which is to restore people to Christ and let them know they are welcome in God’s kingdom.”
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ALUMNI PROFILE
As HopeSprings has pursued its core mission
walk with Christ to both of them. They
of connecting those in the faith community
invested in my well-being and my direction,
to Baltimore’s most vulnerable, its work has
and I wouldn’t be here without them.” And it
been recognized as essential by the leadership
wasn’t just faculty who changed Erin’s life at
of the city. Erin is the Chair of Johns Hopkins
Vanguard. As a member of the soccer team,
Center for AIDS Research Community
Erin developed friendships that remain to this
Participatory Advisory Board, sits on the
day as intimate and essential to her life as
Mayor’s HIV/AIDS Commission for the
they were then.
City of Baltimore co-chairing the faith work Being recognized as Alumna of the Year was
group, and is on the Board of the Presbyterian
a shock and an honor for Erin. “It’s a little
AIDS Network. Erin sees these leadership
strange, and very humbling,” she says. “I’m no
opportunities as affirmation that God is being
different from anyone else who is passionate
glorified in the work of HopeSprings, its
about their work and the church.” One of
volunteers, donors, and church partners.
Vanguard’s great traditions is alumni giving Erin’s passion for fighting the HIV epidemic
back to current students by sharing their
is a direct result of her Vanguard University
wisdom and experiences. While Erin was in Costa Mesa to receive the award and speak
education, and the influence of professors Vince Gil and the late Craig Rusch. Professor
that changed everything. I got the position as
in classes and chapel, she was approached by
Gil’s groundbreaking work—for which Erin
Executive Director of HopeSprings, and since
a student who confided in her about being in
served as a research assistant—is all the more
then God has given me such a love for this
the midst of a desperate personal crisis. Erin
remarkable because he was one of the few
city. I learned that God places you in a time
was uniquely suited to support this student
Christian scholars tackling the problem at
and place for a purpose; wherever that may
and it reminded her of the lesson she had
that time. Even though Erin actually studied
be, that’s your mission field.”
already learned in so many ways: God puts
HIV/AIDS in Baltimore as a part of Gil’s epidemiology class, Erin always thought she was being called to East Africa, where the HIV pandemic was also out of control in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Erin travelled to Africa and worked there after her graduation
It’s meaningful to Erin that one of the places God put her was at Vanguard. “I’m so grateful to Vanguard for exposing me to this work. Vince Gil and Craig Rusch made such an impact on my life, and I credit my
you where he wants to serve his purposes. “It’s not about receiving an honor,” says Erin. “It’s about using my voice to reach young people, to show that God can use them and that he wants to.”
from Vanguard and thought she would go back for good after getting married, but another opportunity arose in Baltimore. That’s when God told her to stay put. “A group of friends spoke truth into my life, telling me, ‘The same work you can do in Africa, you can do here,’” she says. “I realized I didn’t
“The idea is to take the church out of the four walls to serve one of our most vulnerable populations. We are a small organization with a large reach, because we help empower the local church to serve as the incarnated hands and feet of Christ.”
have to be abroad to be a missionary, and
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STUDENT PROFILE
A JOURNEY OF PURPOSE LYING ON A THIN, BLOODSTAINED MATTRESS, shaking
facility completely lacking the comforts of western medical care, Levi
uncontrollably, wracked with fever, and fighting a losing battle
received over 100 shots, injections, and IVs, from a knowledgeable
against the need to throw up, Levi Moellering was left wondering
and competent staff of nurses who spoke no English.
whether this was how God repaid those who served him. Levi was in Uganda, and he had malaria. He had come to Uganda between his junior and senior year at Vanguard on a solo journey to serve as a medical missionary. Having been to Africa 12 other times, Levi was given the opportunity to travel to Uganda alone, but supported by Vanguard. Kayli Hillebrand, director of Global Education and Outreach, arranged for Levi to stay with a Ugandan family that had sent their son to study at Vanguard. While there, Levi focused his service in the area of medicine, working in health clinics, drawing blood, testing individuals for HIV, advocating for clean water, and through it all, doing missions work. He encountered difficulties and obstacles—the language barrier, and, since he was alone, the inability to debrief
More alone than ever, Levi turned to God, first to wonder why he was suffering the affliction, but then quickly realizing the experience was pointing him to something more important. “God was telling me, ‘I have something greater for you,’” says Levi. “He told me, ‘It will be more than just your plan for yourself.’” Up to that point, Levi’s plan was to graduate from Vanguard and move on to medical school, but his agonizing firsthand experience as a patient in a developing country confirmed a shift in focus to the field of medical anthropology. In this field Levi will study cultures in the context of the diseases that threaten them, how those diseases are treated, how they spread, and the population’s attitude and beliefs about them. “Through this work, our influence can have long term, lasting effects, helping that culture keep up with developments in medicine and treatment,” explains Levi. Levi fully recovered from his malaria and returned to the States with
“Through this work, our influence can have long term, lasting effects, helping that culture keep up with developments in medicine and treatment.”
a new plan to pursue his MA in global health and then a PhD in medical anthropology. He has been accepted into Emory University’s top program, and as he prepares to graduate from Vanguard, he can’t help but reflect on what the personal attention from professors has meant for him. “Vince Gil served as a great mentor to me, steering me towards the field of medical anthropology. Tara Sirvent pushed me to do my best and believed in my potential in medicine. I love the atmosphere at Vanguard, where I can partner with a teacher
with a team—but he also found greater freedom to connect with
who will guide me not only in my walk with God, but also my
local pastors and blood banks, and to develop deeper and more
future career path.” The son of two chemists, Levi’s goal has always
personal relationships with those people.
been to use science to help others. At Vanguard, he was given the
But contracting malaria wasn’t a part of the plan. Understanding the symptoms, Levi immediately sought treatment and discovered that he in fact had the most dangerous strain. Over four days, in a
opportunity to combine research for his bio chemistry major with overseas mission work, exemplifying the commitment to faith and education, and setting Levi on the path to his goal.
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FACULTY SPOTLIGHT
A Dream THAT NEVER DIES
VANGUARD UNIVERSITY SOCIOLOGY PROFESSOR DR. STEPHANIE DÕAURIA
usually other Christians and churches filling the
around what these women went through. I saw
gap and helping them. Even while Dr. D’Auria
patterns of abuse, addiction and criminal behavior.
has always wanted to be a teacher. When she was
was grateful for this up-close example of faith
It changed my life.”
in elementary school, her father salvaged a broken
interwoven with outreach, she was also disturbed
chalkboard from the trash, framed it, and installed
by the structural or systemic reasons for her
it on a wall in their home. Dr. D’Auria would teach
family’s struggle—since her father worked hard
the things she had learned that day in school to her
at three jobs. Dr. D’Auria saw an opportunity to
little sister, and then—when her mother released
combine her love of teaching with a desire to help
her reluctant sister from the role of student—Dr.
disadvantaged families like hers as an extension
D’Auria would lecture her stuffed animals.
of her faith, and charted a professional course for
This is to say that Dr. D’Auria’s passion for teaching burned early, and when that passion was combined with the model of service she was exposed to through the work of her parents, it
social work. “I was always thinking like a teacher,” she says. “I knew even social work would give me the opportunity to share my knowledge to help disadvantaged families out of their situations.”
Dr. D’Auria decided to pursue a PhD from UC Riverside as a means of becoming powerfully equipped to address these social problems, and as she neared its completion, she was introduced to the late Dr. Elizabeth Leonard and her work with Convicted Women Against Abuse. This led her to Vanguard, and now Dr. D’Auria is an assistant professor of sociology with an emphasis on criminology and intimate partner violence, and one of the ways she is able to make an impact is through her teaching. “I love the opportunity to
is clear to see how she became a professor of
Dr. D’Auria attended Cal State Fullerton to study
provide skills, strategy, and knowledge for students
sociology, which emphasizes applied research
human services, an applied degree that would
to think critically about the world, and to make
and community activism through education.
prepare her for a career in therapy or social
better-informed decisions about their own lives,”
Her parents’ vocation was serving the church.
work case management. Using science to address
she says. And her teaching follows the model of
Her father was involved in music ministry, and
shortcomings in society was her aim at the time,
her parents: faith is at the center of it. “What I
they moved often when Dr. D’Auria was a child,
and then she had a few experiences that sharpened
teach is very related to my faith. I encourage my
always going to the next place they were needed.
the focus of her vocational goals. Her research
students to think critically about how we can be
“My parents put their faith at the center of
introduced her to intimate partner violence, and
servants, and the body of Christ. I want them to
everything they did,” says Dr. D’Auria. “Through
cases of women who had experienced massive
have an action-based faith. Because if we aren’t
the relationships they developed, the loving,
injustice, as every social institution let them down.
living to help others in love, how can we be living
caring for, and serving of others was constantly
“I couldn’t believe how commonly it occurs,” she
in our faith? One of my favorite parts of teaching
being modeled for me and my siblings.” As a
says. “There were too many failures in our society
at Vanguard is how receptive students are to being
consequence of certain changes in the structure
to protect people who were not safe in their own
moved to action. Our students are more likely
of society that occurred when she was a child—
homes. I wanted to think outside the box on social
after an ‘Aha!’ moment to make changes that
trends such as jobs being shipped overseas and
problems and explore what other factors could
reflect the knowledge they have acquired. Here,
an increasing reliance on temporary/seasonal
contribute to people making those choices. I began
students apply what they have learned.”
work—Dr. D’Auria’s family experienced periods
working with women who had just been released
of homelessness at times. When they did, it was
from prison, and I could not wrap my head
That’s not the only thing Dr. D’Auria loves about Vanguard. Like her students, she has become a part of a community of people who live their faith in their professional and personal lives. “My colleagues are warm, generous with their time,
DR. STEPHANIE D’AURIA is assistant professor of sociology at Vanguard University. Dr. D’Auria’s areas of emphasis include criminology, corrections, gender, inequality, and family. Her current research focuses on the experiences of women as they transition from prison into their communities.
authentic, patient, forgiving, and deeply caring for their students!”
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FACULTY SPOTLIGHT
“I love the opportunity to provide skills, strategy, and knowledge for students to think critically about the world, and to make better-informed decisions about their own lives.” Dr. D’Auria is also proud of the work the sociology department does to prepare students for their careers or for graduate study. Vanguard’s commitment to holistic education through rigorous academics and diverse opportunities to apply knowledge is borne out in the philosophy of the sociology department. Students have ample occasion to apply their learning to relevant work in the field. “One of the things we do for undergraduates that is very rare is to facilitate student research projects and then help them present at regional conferences, alongside graduate students and academics,” says Dr. D’Auria. “From start to finish, it’s about mentorship, from putting together the project, to professionalization of the student, to networking. It’s incredibly unique for them to have that experience, and it makes them very competitive.” Dr. D’Auria also boasts about Larry Haynes, an alumnus and the executive director of Mercy House, coming to Vanguard to lecture as evidence of how the University brings in experts from the field, so students are learning from them as well as academics. This summer, Dr. D’Auria is looking forward to orientation for a new program Vanguard is partnering with called The Inside-Out Prison Exchange Program, which brings college students together with incarcerated men and women to study as peers in a seminar behind prison walls. The core of the program is a semester-long academic course that serves as an opportunity for Vanguard students studying criminology to go behind prison walls to reconsider what they have come to know about crime and justice. Dr. D’Auria is excited about the challenge of teaching it. She has come a long way from her chalkboard and stuffed animals, but her passion for social justice and for empowering the lives of others through education, outreach, and service remains as strong as ever.
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VANGUARD ATHLETICS
CHAMPION of CHARACTER After a 21-year career during which he established a course of excellence for student athletes, coaches, trainers, and their athletic programs, athletic director Bob Wilson is retiring from Vanguard University. As athletic director, Bob embodied the idea of Christcentered leadership and service at the core of Vanguard’s mission statement, and his career stands as a testament to the power of these virtues to change the lives of student-athletes and influence their spiritual, academic, and athletic development.
B
ob grew up in Denver, Colorado in
watching Bob letter in three sports. Bob went on to play
an athletic family where both of his
three years of college basketball at the University of
parents were educators, laying the
Wyoming before graduating and beginning his own
ideal groundwork for a career as coach
coaching career.
and athletic director. He played football, baseball, and basketball as a young man, and always had a specific model for character expressed through athletic leadership from his father, who was a high school basketball coach-turned-athletic director. Bob’s father transitioned from coach to athletic director when Bob went to a school other than the one his father coached at—he just didn’t want to coach against his own son. As the athletic director for Denver schools, Bob’s father could continue his work as an educator and enjoy
As he did so, Bob consciously modeled his philosophy on that of his high school football coach, who spurred his players towards greatness through an ardent belief in their potential. “I patterned myself after him,” remembers Bob. “He was a person who looked at your potential, then drove you out of your comfort zone to reach it. He invested everything he had into what he was doing, and for your own good, he was never satisfied.” As a player, Bob observed and learned from his coaches, many of
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VANGUARD ATHLETICS
Upon establishing strong athletics programs, Bob then began focusing
“As [student athletes] mature and build character... they ask, ‘Who am I, and Whose am I?’ They discover... how that fits into their Christian faith, and then they find their passion and pursue it, and they discover how they will make a difference.”
on the student-athletes’ success beyond the playing field. He was initially inspired by the NAIA program Champions of Character, but found that it wasn’t nearly extensive enough. He adapted it for Vanguard, calling it Gold Pride. This was a system of belief that stated that student-athletes should pursue excellence in five core covenants: Christ-like attitude, faithfulness, selflessness, passion, and leadership. “As we got into it, we discovered that we wanted to give it even more substance and make it even more intentional. So we developed a class on character that our student-athletes had to take. Then we branched out into small groups led by coaches, and then we introduced ‘character captains,’ where the small groups were led by the students themselves. This evolution has allowed
them mentoring him in the importance of winning and success, but in
us to build up leadership among our student-athletes, have them develop
the right way, with character. Before he went to play college ball, Bob’s
lifelong relationships, and become better teammates and students. And as
high school football coach imparted words of wisdom that resonated
a result, our entire institution is better.”
throughout the rest of his life. “He said to me, ‘Probably more than any other athlete, you got more out of your ability than anybody else—yet you haven’t even scratched the surface.’ At first I was offended, but then I realized he was right. I had always been content with being good enough. My coach was giving me an early lesson in the idea that ‘The enemy of greatness is good enough.’ My coach had got me out of my comfort zone, but it was up to me to do the rest of it.”
As Bob reflects on his career at Vanguard, one of the accomplishments he’s most proud of is not just giving student-athletes the tools to succeed in athletics but to also discover their larger purpose in Christ. “Every freshman thinks they’ll be the next star,” he says. “When you’re younger, that’s what’s important to you. As they mature and build character, their reality sets in, and they ask, ‘Who am I, and Whose am I?’ They discover themselves and how that fits into their Christian faith, and then they find
Bob took and applied this lesson to his own coaching career, starting as a
their passion and pursue it, and they discover how they will make a
graduate assistant at the University of Nebraska-Omaha before becoming
difference.” So, although he has been awarded NAIA Athletic Director
an assistant coach at Northern Colorado and then Colorado State. He
of the Year, the student-athlete’s purpose and character is the only context
got his first head coaching job at Phillips University, which was also the
in which Bob is willing to talk about his accomplishments. He defers to
first place he served as athletic director. Bob then coached basketball
stories about former students-athletes coming back to visit him to tell him
at the University of Hawaii at Hilo, before transitioning to be an athletic
that the things they learned as a part of Vanguard’s athletic department
director exclusively when he was hired at Vanguard University 21 years
will be carried with them forever.
ago. In each of these leadership positions—Phillips, Hawaii at Hilo, and Vanguard—Bob has led his teams to competition at the national level, pursuing excellence and character on the court and in life.
And Bob is quick to point out one more thing: “I didn’t do it by myself. I have an unbelievably dedicated and loyal team of coaches, trainers, and staff who have taken ownership of our Gold Pride concept and who make
At Vanguard University, Bob immediately began to overhaul the athletic
sure our student-athletes are able to receive the message. I’m going to
department, with one primary focus: the student-athlete. Many of
miss that interaction with them, but they’ll carry on!” Bob knows he’ll also
Vanguard’s teams throughout its history had achieved great success, but
miss the relationships and interactions he’s able to have with the student-
none of them qualified as a complete program. They were led by excellent
athletes themselves. One of the benefits of being an athletic director over
coaches who were freelance or part time, unable to devote themselves
a coach that he has always enjoyed is the fact that he’s able to interact
fully to their team. “Because of this, they weren’t able to mentor the
with all 200 students as opposed to only the 15 or so that were on his
student-athletes as deeply as they could have,” says Bob. “But Murray
team. Their success has always been his primary focus. “You compete in
Dempster shared my vision: if you want success building the total student
athletics—and I love to compete; success in athletics is very important to
athlete, then you have to have coaches who can mentor them in every
me—but more than championships, if a student competed to his or her full
area of their lives.” Bob built the athletic teams at Vanguard into athletic
potential, if they did all they could with what they were given, then that’s
programs, and these programs grew in their distinction as a result of this
the influence I want to have on them.”
whole-hearted commitment to mentorship along with competition.
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B O B
W I L S O N
AT H L E T I C
D I R E C T O R
1 9 9 5 - 2 0 1 6
NAIA
DIVISION 1 WOMEN’S BASKETBALL
GOLDEN STATE ATHLETIC CONFERENCE
GOLDEN STATE ATHLETIC CONFERENCE
SOFTBALL 95
W-BASKETBALL 00
W-BASKETBALL 06 M-BASKETBALL 14
M-TENNIS 96
W-BASKETBALL 03
W-BASKETBALL 07 W-BASKETBALL 14
SOFTBALL 98
W-BASKETBALL 04
W-BASKETBALL 09
W-BASKETBALL 98
M-SOCCER 04
W-BASKETBALL 10
W-TENNIS 14
SOFTBALL 99
W-TENNIS 04
M-SOCCER 10
M-SOCCER 14
W-BASKETBALL 99
W-TENNIS 05
W-SOCCER 12
W-SOCCER 14
M-TENNIS 99
W-BASKETBALL 05
M-TENNIS 13
M-TENNIS 15
M-TENNIS 00
20 08
M-TENNIS 14
NAIA
DIVISION 1 MENÕS BASKETBALL
20 14
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DONOR PROFILE
PRUDENT PRINCIPLES JEFF MOTSKE IS ON A MISSION TO HELP PEOPLE IN THEIR PURSUIT OF FINANCIAL HEALTH
FOR THE PAST 17 YEARS, Jeff Motske Õ88 has worked hard to balance
believe my message of financial health can truly help people. It’s my
his life between building and strengthening the financial services
calling. The second reason is that this exposure helps the employees of
company he founded and being the best husband and father he could
Trilogy Financial, and as their leader, I owe it to them to do whatever I
be. With his Vanguard University education as a foundation, Jeff
can to get them a leg up in their careers.”
established Trilogy Financial Services, with a firm commitment to integrity and trust, and allowed those guiding principles to lead his decision-making as CEO and as a family man. A true Vanguard success story, Jeff has long been an ideal candidate for service on VU’s Board of Trustees, and in the last few years, as his firm became more established and he looked for opportunities to pursue his calling beyond his business, Jeff has embraced the chance to serve on the Board and play a role in the governance of the University he loves.
Jeff has also developed a radio show, which he hosts with Kimber Holdaway, that allows him to tailor his expertise to specific current issues and the real-time financial concerns of callers. Declare Your Financial Independence can be heard Saturday mornings on AM 1150, Sunday mornings on AM 830, and is also available as a podcast through iTunes. Jeff features a different guest every week, and dispenses advice to listeners and callers on debt reduction, investments, saving, and all other aspects of financial planning. Soon, he’ll add cameras
Jeff isn’t in finance to pursue a personal fortune. His passion is to reach
to his Huntington Beach radio studio in order to develop short video
as many people as he can in order to help them get on the road to
excerpts from the show that deliver snippets of comprehensive guidance
financial independence. As Jeff follows this calling, he has watched God
for specific money matters. It’s all in the service of assisting others
open doors in his life that allowed him to reach more people than ever.
through what is often one of the most stressful areas of their lives.
Last year, Jeff published his first book, The Couple’s Guide to Financial Compatibility, and it has been selling so well that he’s already planning a second. In publicizing the book, Jeff has been interviewed a number of times on national television, appearing on Fox & Friends, The Steve Harvey Show, and the Hallmark Network Home & Family Show. The book has been highlighted in a number of national publications
“Our industry is full of big egos,” he admits. “But that’s not really me. I make a point to say to myself in private, ‘Stay humble, recognize your gifts, and use your gifts to help others.’ I never forget my personal mission statement, which is to be the best husband, father, and friend I can be, and every day try to do something wonderful for somebody else.”
as well, including USA Today, Men’s and Women’s Health, Parade
Jeff’s service on behalf of Vanguard is another one of the ways he is
Magazine, and Money Magazine. The experience of becoming a trusted
able to do this. In addition to sitting on the Board of Trustees, Jeff is
financial pundit with wide exposure almost overnight has been fun and
the chair of the Foundation Board, and a generous donor to Vanguard
challenging for Jeff, who is otherwise a very private person. “I was very
annually. Jeff is excited about the opportunity to pour into Vanguard
reluctant at first to pursue a course in the public eye,” he says. “It was
through these roles. “It was the right time in terms of my ability to
a very hard decision, but I made it for two reasons. The first is that I
give back. I’m in a position to put my time and treasure into it, and the
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DONOR PROFILE
“It was the right time in terms of my ability to give back... the reason it’s so important to me is because I’m a huge proponent of faith-based education. If more and more students are exposed to the kind of excellent faith-based education that Vanguard represents, then we’ll have more and more graduates that are equipped to help with society’s moral compass.”
reason it’s so important to me is because I’m a huge proponent of faithbased education. If more and more students are exposed to the kind of excellent faith-based education that Vanguard represents, then we’ll have more and more graduates that are equipped to help with society’s moral compass.” As a local business owner, Jeff is particularly enthused about Vanguard’s commitment to creating relationships among students, alumni, and local businesses. Events like the Breakfast Roundtables give students the opportunity to connect with professionals—and vice versa. “My feeling as a business professional is that events like these are great for me to find quality young people to hire,” says Jeff. “When the school can connect with the community and create opportunities for students to find and explore careers, the community benefits, the University benefits, and the student benefits.” Jeff himself has already personally embraced such an opportunity. He was connected to a student named Billy Crop by a Vanguard professor, and after an extensive round of interviews, Billy proved so smart, hardPHOTO BY DHRUMIL DESAI
working, and ambitious that Jeff made sure to find a place for him at Trilogy. Upon his graduation Billy will work full-time for Trilogy Capital, an investment advisory firm. “Billy is really sharp,” says Jeff. “But at the
faith. His service on the Board of Trustees is so essential to him because
same time, he has great integrity and principles.” These are the values
it was faith-based education that allowed him to focus this lens on
that led Billy to choose Vanguard over Stanford when deciding where
his calling and purpose—the things that are most important. “When I
to go to school, and they are the values that led him to Trilogy, where
began to go to Newport Christian High School, and then to Vanguard,
Jeff has established a culture of trust built on relationships—a model for
I got on a path that changed me,” he says. “That’s why I want to get
business that has proven successful since Trilogy’s founding.
more people on this campus; Vanguard changes you.”
With his book, radio show, and his financial services company, Jeff has always made a point to see the world of finance through the lens of
For more information on Jeff’s book and radio show, check out www.jeffmotske.com.
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STUDENT PROFILE: VANGUARD VETERANS
Recovery and Restoration BEFORE JEFF STEA CAME TO VANGUARD
time and never having paid attention. But the
University, his interest in higher education
professors are so helpful and care about the
was decidedly one-dimensional. “I enrolled in
students so much. And I got straight A’s this year!”
community college classes and would go just until
Vanguard’s Veterans Resource Center welcomed
I got my first financial aid check,” he says. “Then I
Jeff into its community of veterans, where
would drop out and use the money for drugs.”
he found friends who had a context for
Jeff was lost. To be precise, he was still lost. He
understanding his experiences and a system of
had started getting into trouble when he was
accountability based on their shared faith. Jeff
16 years old, and his parents tried everything to
now works for the Veterans Resource Center,
get him on a good path, finally sending him to
and he is able to see how the positive lessons
a rehab facility in Utah. When he turned 18, he
he learned in the military—about hard work,
had to leave that facility, but he hadn’t changed
responsibility, and friendship—have a place in his
at all. In their love for Jeff, his parents could not
life and his goals now.
tolerate his drug use, so Jeff’s only option was
Those goals include a liberal arts degree from
homelessness or the military.
Vanguard and a career as a middle school teacher,
He chose the U.S. Army, and was stationed mostly
a passion for which Jeff found at the Orange
in Korea for four years, handling field artillery.
County Rescue Mission. “Over there, I worked
The discipline and camaraderie of the Army had
with kids a lot. Their parents are there to get diplomas, and I watched their kids while they were
a positive impact on Jeff, but he wasn’t able to apply that structure to his life beyond. When
recovery, working for the Mission and receiving
taking classes. I realized how much I liked it, and
he returned to the US after his service, he lost
counseling that gave him the tools to see the
how my experiences give me a responsibility to
the system of accountability that is a natural
worth of his life through the eyes of Christ. “For
influence young people in a positive way.” Jeff sees
byproduct of the military practically overnight.
the first time in my life, I was reading the Bible. It
his future work as a way to give some students a
His loneliness and lack of direction led him back
was so powerful how real it was to me. Once God
male role model of strong faith—not unlike his
to old friends and new drugs. Jeff remembers this
opened my eyes to see how I was destroying my
own father.
period with rueful clarity. “It was a bad time,” he
life and the truth about him, it made me hungry
says. “I was in and out of jail, and I had multiple
for it. Now I read my Bible every day and do
felonies. It was a miserable time in my life. I just
my best to obey Scripture, which gives me the
didn’t know how to stop using drugs.”
confidence to have a deep relationship with God.”
For eight months then, he was homeless. He had
With a renewed purpose, and a clear head and
me so many times, but I didn’t want their help,”
reached his lowest point, unable to free himself
heart, Jeff began thinking about pursuing an
says Jeff. “My dad always called me out on what
from an aimless cycle of addiction and pain. It
education more earnestly. Some of his counselors
I was doing, so I didn’t want to be around him.
wasn’t until his probation officer connected him
at the Orange County Rescue Mission pointed
Now, I have a great relationship with him, and it’s
to faith-based recovery centers like the Long
him to Vanguard, where he could learn in an
a huge part of my life.”
Beach Rescue Mission and especially the Orange
environment of faith that would give him the
County Rescue Mission that he began to find
academic tools for a great career and the spiritual
what—or who—had been missing from his life.
tools for a great life. He enrolled last fall, and
“I was raised Catholic by an awesome family, so
because Vanguard is a Yellow Ribbon school, he
I believed in God,” says Jeff. “But who would’ve
was able to use the benefits of his GI Bill to cover
known that belief is not enough? You have to live
his entire tuition. At Vanguard, Jeff discovered
your life according to his will, not just believe that
that the camaraderie he once enjoyed in the
he exists.”
military was infused into the entire community.
Jeff lived in the Orange County Rescue Mission’s Village of Hope, and began the long road to
“Everyone, from professors to students, is so friendly,” he says. “I was really worried coming
Jeff’s recovery at the Orange County Rescue Mission didn’t just restore his faith in God; it also restored the relationships with his family that had been damaged by his drug use. “They tried to help
Jeff’s journey from the streets of Orange County to the classrooms of Vanguard is proof that God loves to restore his people. Jeff’s faith is hard-won, and as he pursues his degree at Vanguard, he will continue to use his personal experiences combined with the academic and vocational tools he gains to live a life of purpose.
Support Vanguard’s Veteran Resource Center programs by visiting vanguard.edu/veterans.
here, having not been in school for a long
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CLASS NOTES
vu alumni
Places Beyond DAN FORD (Õ06) documents his travels on a 20,000 mile, 14 country South American journey of self-discovery.
PHOTO BY GREG DAVIS
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CLASS NOTES
2000s
1970s
CHRIS AND MANDY (WITHERSPOON ’10) TAYLOR ’04 reside in the Washington D.C area. Chris is a Legislative Aide to U.S. Congressman Bill Flores, of Texas, while Mandy serves as the Assistant Director of Residence Life at Hood College. TROY ’01 AND KATIE PETERSON
CALLED TO SERVE
’05 live in Northern California. Katie is the founder of KatieJoelle.com – a handcrafted, custom jewelry site, and Troy is the CEO of GapEdgeTrading.com where he coaches and mentors Wall Street traders. They have been married for 23 years, and have a 9 year-old son.
Military Ministry
Paul and
Linda (Smith ’81) Linzey ’78 reside
DAWN (HAYES ’08) LOPEZ and her husband, Daryl, moved from Orange County to Idaho in the summer of 2015 and celebrated
in Lakeland, FL and are in the process of
five years of marriage. Dawn is a stay-at-home
planting an Assemblies of God church there
wife and substitute teacher at a local Christian
as well. Paul retired from the Army Chaplain
school, while Daryl works at Hobby Lobby.
Corps in March 2015. He completed a D Min at Gordon-Conwell and an MFA in Creative Writing at the University of Tampa, and just finished writing a book about his ministry experience in Iraq in 2007. Linda completed a PhD in literature at the University
JASON AND LAUREN (THOMPSON ’11) FLETCHER ’08 were married in June 2013. While serving
of Utah and is now the Chair of the English
as the Asst. Dir. of Admissions for Vanguard,
Department and Secretary of the Faculty
Jason received his MA in Business
Council at Southeastern University.
Management at the University of Redlands
NICOLE GALLEGO ’07 graduated with a degree in Accounting and Administration and moved to San Diego to work in an accounting firm. There, she joined a ministry at her church that was devoted to saving victims from human trafficking. She volunteered at several homes in Tijuana for rescued victims, and realized she wanted to dedicate herself full-time to fight against human trafficking. For the past four years, she has been working in Mexico City for an organization called El Pozo de Vida that runs two safe houses for trafficking survivors. She is currently a caretaker, social worker, counselor, and a friend to the current survivors. She thanks Vanguard for sparking her passion for human trafficking victims by hosting a seminar she attended a few months prior to her graduation.
before moving his family to Katy, TX in June
1990s
2015. Jason serves as the Assistant Director of
FRANK YAMADA ’90 is currently the
in Houston. His future plans include starting
president and a professor of Bible and Culture at McCormick Theological Seminary in Chicago, IL. He is an ordained minister and the first Asian-American to serve as president of a Presbyterian Church (USA) seminary.
College Counseling for Yes Prep Public Schools his own business as an independent college counselor. Lauren has supported Jason through his accomplishments while maintaining her role in Property Management for Martin Fein Interests. Lauren has also recently launched her photography business, 29:Eleven Images. They have an adorable toddler and future Vanguard Lion, Jeremiah Liam, born October 2014.
2010s LAUREN CASTILLO ’10 graduated from APU in 2013 with her Master’s in Clinical Psychology and has been working at Asian Pacific Counseling and Treatment Centers as a Marriage and Family Therapist. On January 23, 2016 Lauren and her husband, Milton Cruz, welcomed their first child Matthew Logan into the world. Matthew is by far her greatest blessing and achievement!
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LIONS SOFTBALL REUNION WHEN VANGUARD UNIVERSITY SOFTBALL COACH Beth
in 1999 to commemorate players who represent April’s characteristics in the
Renkoski attended the festivities surrounding the reopening of the Scott
realm of integrity, faith, determination, and perseverance. [See “My Story” page
Academic Center in 2015, she was struck by the importance of remembering,
48]. Softball generational/legacy families were also honored, as many sets of
honoring, and preserving the history of this institution and the people who
sisters have played through the program.
make it great. She decided to lead an effort to celebrate the 30-year history of Vanguard’s softball team, and to recognize the significance of all the players who have taken the field over the last three decades. “I wanted an opportunity for our players to know the history of the program,” she says. “We brought back as many alumni as we could, including the founding members of the softball team.”
For coach Beth Renkoski, the most rewarding aspect of bringing together 30 years worth of coaches and players was seeing alumni reunite and friendships and relationships easily rekindled. It was a potent reminder that Vanguard’s investment in the lives of its student
“As their lives continue, you see the seeds that you planted grow into good things...”
On January 30, 2016, Vanguard University welcomed approximately 150
athletes beyond
players, alumni, and their families to campus for the Vanguard Softball 30 Year
sports pays off in
Celebration. After a luncheon, teams were individually recognized by their
transformational
accomplishments year by year—and there was much to celebrate. Over 30 years,
ways. “You don’t
the Vanguard softball team won five GSAC titles, three district/regional titles,
always know as a coach if things are working,” says Beth. “So it was rewarding
and had four NAIA appearances. Individual honors include 12 NAIA All-
to see how athletics had an impact in terms of building their character. As their
Americans, 48 NAIA Scholar Athletes, 41 Academic All-GSAC honorees, and
lives continue, you see the seeds that you planted grow into good things, like
92 All-GSAC league players. The event also recognized winners of one of the
their families and what they have achieved. A lot of the relationships the student
softball team’s most cherished accolades, the April Munroe Award, established
athletes built last beyond the game of softball.”
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PLACES BEYOND DAN FORD (’06) stood on the top of a mountain in Torres del Paine National Park in Chilean Patagonia, staring out at the famous namesake towers, shrouded completely in rain and fog. Dan had hiked 60 miles to camp in the park, and awakened before sunrise on the advice of a fellow traveler: the towers at sunrise are not to be missed. Shivering with cold and gazing out at misty grayness, Dan was at first deeply disappointed. But then, the clouds cleared and the sun appeared, shining down through a rainbow and blanketing the towers and the lakes below in beautiful light. The sun shone for only about one minute before being covered again by clouds and fog, but it was enough for Dan to experience the clarity of God’s vision for him in the midst of the beauty of his Creation. This moment on the mountain top in many ways represented the whole trip for Dan. He was riding alone across South America, all of his belongings contained within the paniers of his 2007 BMW 650 Xchallenge, a dual-sport motorcycle that allowed for him to ride on both pavement and dirt. He had asked for and received an 8-month sabbatical from his full-time job to go on the journey, which stretched 20,000 miles across 14 countries, and which he documented on his website and Instagram feed, both called Places Beyond. On the trip, as on his hike to see the sunrise among the towers, Dan had to trust that God would appear, just as he had trusted the sun would. Dan had always been a planner, uncomfortable with uncertainty, and this had begun to influence his faith journey. As he rode his motorcycle across South America, leaning on and trusting God and the people God put in his path, Dan found that God was always there—always with him.
believe you can learn from any person and any experience, and the process gives those on the show an opportunity to create their own independent lives.” Dan began working for Roadtrip Nation after graduating with a communications degree from Vanguard University when he discovered its mission aligned with his own values. These were values he saw expressed at Vanguard. “As cliché as it sounds, the friendships and relationships in the Vanguard community are to this day one of the most important factors to me. While at Vanguard, I was surrounded by all these people doing great things and making bold moves in their lives—and I was also inspired by professors who were so supportive of that.” What Dan learned, and what he found encouraged by professors like Ann Caryn Cleveland, was the belief that if you make decisions based on what you value, it can lead to great opportunities. “For me, I valued film and video production and the question of how to be meaningful to myself and to someone else, to help improve their lives. Had I not had those values, I would not still be here at Roadtrip Nation.” Spending years at Roadtrip Nation learning how successful people navigate indecision, uncertainty, fear, and risk was perfect training for Dan’s ambitious journey. His values followed him as well. On the trip, he spent time working in a children’s home in Oaxaca, Mexico, worked for Habitat for Humanity in Guatemala, and raised over $3,000 for the organization International Justice Mission, which works to free people from oppression. On one leg through Tierra del Fuego, Dan was travelling with another rider, battling wind, hail, the darkness of nightfall, and with no idea where they might spend the night. In a small town Dan and his friend met a sheep farmer and his wife, who invited them to stay at their farm. Dan and his friend spent four nights with the family, laughing and sharing stories.
And if you’re curious about a place that would give an employee an 8-month sabbatical to take an epic journey of self-discovery and community building, then just know that Dan works for the television FOLLOW DAN’S documentary series Roadtrip Nation, whose goal is to facilitate JOURNEY AT and explore these exact journeys for others. Featured on PBS, the PLACESBEYOND.COM show chooses a group of young people who in various ways are at & ON INSTAGRAM a crossroads, provides them with a big, green RV, and then follows @PLACESBEYOND them on a road trip as they meet and have conversations with successful people from all walks of life. “We create experiences that give people a space for transformation,” explains Dan. “We
“At one point, the farmer said to me, ‘I’ve never travelled or been on vacation. But I am still so rich for sharing my table with you,’” says Dan. “The moments that we share with people are the most important, and I am so moved by the idea of connecting through uncertainty.” Dan Ford’s journey across South America and his work with Roadtrip Nation bear out the truth of the farmer’s words: life is rich when we share our table and our experiences with others.
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CLASS NOTES
living in the Pacific Northwest and look forward
SEND US YOUR PHOTOS! We’d love to showcase pictures of your new baby, wedding or anniversary in Class Notes. Email your photos to alumni@vanguard.edu
SAVANNAH
and go. This August, her team will venture to every
CORNELISON ’15
country in South America, where they will navigate
graduated last year
through the Amazon jungle and walk the streets of
with her BA in Cultural
Rio de Janeiro to serve “the least of these.” Follow
Anthropology. She then
her story at vandellajasso.theworldrace.org
traveled the western U.S. as a member of Vanguard’s female improv team Entourage. In addition to her camp travels,
to the adventures the Lord has in store for them. NATASHA (FISH ’12) SVEC and her husband Paul were married on November 1, 2015. Natasha landed a position at The Evangelical Alliance Mission (TEAM), coordinating logistics for short-term missions. She
Just Married
she and her team went to Florida for General
has traveled to Scandinavia and Costa Rica since graduation and looks forward to furthering the kingdom through overseas missions with TEAM.
Council/ National Fine Arts. It was an amazing adventure of seeing God move and work in the
Future Alumni
lives of students. Her passions led her back to Vanguard, where she currently serves as the
MISSY (ASHURST
Spiritual Formation administrative assistant.
’02) FOOTT and husband Brian
MEDICAL RESIDENT
welcomed Ethan Everett Foott on July 28, 2015. The
LYNNEA WILSON ’10 has completed medical school at Western University of Health Sciences in Pomona and graduated May 20, 2016. She will serve her residency at Harbor UCLA Medical Center for 3 years in Family Medicine. Her extended family is grateful for Vanguard and the wonderful professors who mentored her in her undergraduate education.
family of three resides
Perfect Proposal Nick Lazaris ’12
in San Diego.
proposed to Bretlyn Schmitt ’15 on stage
KELLY (BOEKE ’02,
at the Vanguard Lyceum Theater last April. They
MA ’09) WALTERS
wed on May 22, 2016 in San Marcos, CA.
and husband David
Both work at Vanguard University, where Nick
welcomed their second
is the Theater Manager and Bretlyn is the
child, son Kaden David
Resident Choreographer and Dance Instructor.
Walters, on November 6, 2015. Big sister Kelsey Joy is very excited to
TREVOR AND
have a little brother. They reside in Huntington
ASHLEE (KILDISZEW
Beach, California where Kelly is a middle school
’14) SIKORSKI ’13
teacher and David is an accountant.
were married in June of 2015. They live in
VANDELLA JASSO
Portland, Oregon.
’16 graduated this May
In Memory JERRY MCELHANEY ’63 passed away on
with her BA in Business
HEIDI (COOPER
Administration. After
’09) WILSON and
graduation she is
her husband Greg
CHAN KEITH ’65 passed away on December
married July 5, 2014 in
27, 2015.
headed on an adventure of a lifetime called The World Race! The World
Vancouver, WA, where
Race is an 11-month missions trip to reach the
they met and have lived
November 28, 2015 in Visalia, CA.
BARRY SILVERS ’87 passed away on March 20, 2016.
unreached and share the message of God with
the last 5 years. Heidi is a kindergarten teacher
people through the hands and feet of 30
for Evergreen Public School and also works from
STANTON GAGEL ’09 passed away on
missionaries willing and able to drop everything
home. Both she and Greg enjoy the beauty of
March 26, 2016.
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MORE THAN JUST A MUG WHEN WE THINK ABOUT THE IMPORTANT MOMENTS in
The foundation of The Created Co.’s philosophy
our lives, the times when we gather with friends and family and experience
is that faith should transfer to every part of
love and laughter, community and connection, we don’t always consider
living. One’s business and one’s ministry are not
that those moments often happen during meals, and are accompanied by
separate parts of one’s life, according to Ryan.
drinkware: mugs, glasses, and cups. Our hands hold drinkware while our
This belief is just one reason why Vanguard
hearts are filled with the kinship of our loved ones, and it’s this simple
University’s School of Professional Studies
fact that guided Ryan Schneider’s ’13 choice to focus on drinkware for the
program gave Ryan the ideal foundation for his
main product line of the company he co-founded with his best friend. It’s
education in business. For one, it provided many
called The Created Co. (www.thecreated.co) a lifestyle brand centered on
of the very same community-building moments he hopes to inspire with
drinkware with a goal much greater than merely making profit. “We want
The Created Co. “As part of the same cohort for two years, I was able to
to inspire people to live what they were created to do,” says Ryan. “We are
develop so many relationships,” he says. “The cohort created a commonality
passionate about people and relationships, and we want our brand to be a
with people and encouraged us to connect to others in a particular way.
source of inspiration to others.”
Every person you meet is valuable—you help them, and they help you. At
CHECK OUT THE CREATED CO. ONLINE AT THECREATED.CO
Vanguard, we learn all the important ‘business stuff,’ but we also learn in a
“At Vanguard, we learn all the important ‘business stuff,’ but we also learn in a business context that people really matter.”
business context that people really matter. I’m going to take that with me.” Ryan is particularly indebted to the influence of professor Trish Fisher, who taught him about the importance of marketing, choosing a target audience, and building his brand. “Professor Fisher challenged me the most. She taught me a lot coming from the business world. She cared about her students, pushing us all to persevere and develop our full potential.”
Central to this aspiration is drinkware artfully embellished with phrases meant to deliver simple truths to others in those moments of vulnerability. “Life’s greatest moments are centered around drinkware,” explains Ryan. “It brings people together, and community is built around it. The Created Co. seeks to inspire, connect, and empower people through everyday drinkware.” Ryan’s vision of empowerment extends beyond just those using his products. Ten percent of The Created Co.’s net profit is given to charity: water, a non-profit whose goal is to ensure that all people have
If you visit Sidecar Donuts or Portola Coffee near Vanguard’s campus, you’ll find yourself drinking out of Ryan’s mugs, as The Created Co. also provides shops and restaurants with custom drinkware. Ryan particularly loves providing businesses like these with his products. “Coffee shops create a place for people to connect. Mugs are just always in front of people.” As Ryan pursues the full potential of The Created Co., he keeps the lessons he learned at Vanguard—about relationships, perseverance, and the worth of people—at the forefront of his company’s philosophy.
access to clean drinking water.
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STUDENT PROFILE: FRESHMAN FOCUS
FRESHMAN FOCUS M A R A N D A
I D O N I
MARANDA IDONI IS A FRESHMAN HISTORY/POLITICAL SCIENCE MAJOR FROM SANTA ANA, CALIF. WHY DID YOU CHOOSE VANGUARD? I chose Vanguard because I knew that after college I wanted to pursue law school. I realized that field isn’t truly filled with God’s light and would most likely test my faith. I wanted to make sure I came to a school where I could grow as a child of God and have brothers and sisters in Christ who will stand beside me and help me get there. FAVORITE CLASS SO FAR: Old Testament Survey FAVORITE PROFESSOR SO FAR: Arthur Gray is my favorite professor because he knows so much. He’s also a former lawyer and that amazed me because I also want to be a lawyer in the future. He’s a strong man of God and truly has a passion for wanting to help students create that strong foundation with God. WHO IS/ARE YOUR MENTOR(S)? My mentors include my mom, my counselor, and Rachel Lund, my boss for commuter life. FAVORITE CAMPUS EVENT: The block party by far. Commuter Life and Diversity came together for that event and it went off without a hitch. FAVORITE SPOT ON CAMPUS: The Bridge WHAT CAMPUS CLUB/ORGANIZATIONS ARE YOU INVOLVED WITH? Black Student Union (BSU), Commuter Life, Activate - spirit committee, Men’s Basketball - manager FAVORITE VANGUARD SPORTS TEAM: Men’s Basketball Team (I’m the team manager!) WHAT ARE THREE FUN/INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT YOURSELF? I speak fluent Spanish. I am the youngest of 9. I have a huge book collection of over 1,000 books! WHAT IS SOMETHING UNEXPECTED THAT YOU HAVE FOUND OUT ABOUT VANGUARD SINCE YOU’VE BEEN HERE? That everyone is so welcoming. Everyone just wants to get to know you and love you. WHAT WAS THE LAST GOOD BOOK YOU READ? The last good book I read was The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness by Michelle Alexander.
FAVORITE MINISTRY OPPORTUNITY: Being a Sunday school teacher at Triumph Church in Aliso Viejo. Mostly for children 5 and under. FAVORITE VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITY: Being a caretaker for children in child protective services (CPS). ARE YOU INTERNING ANYWHERE? I am interning with the Lou Correa campaign this summer. I’m so excited for this opportunity. TELL US ABOUT YOUR CAREER GOALS: Wow what a question! First I want to become a lawyer working with criminal defense and trial law. Then I want to become a D.A. for hopefully Los Angeles and stay there for a good few years. After I think I want to become a professor at my Alma Mater or become a high school teacher.
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MY STORY
Head in the Game ON MAY 15, 1996, JUST TWO DAYS after I had returned home to
through just about every type of therapy you can imagine: occupational
Sonora, Calif. at the end of my freshman year at Vanguard University, I
therapy, acupuncture, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and yoga, one of the
wrote the following Bible verse and passage in my journal:
most effective of all!
Matthew 15:34 – “How many loaves do you have? Jesus asked. “Seven”
While I was in the hospital, and all throughout my recovery, I knew
they replied “ and a few small fish.” Oh Lord, you only ask what I have
Vanguard’s community was helping care for me. My softball coaches Beth
to give and you make up for what I lack. Help me to trust you enough to
Renkoski and Sony Mitchell and my teammates prayed for me, visited
let you have what I have. For when I give, oh God you are faithful to give
me, and stayed in touch throughout my recovery. I had loved playing
back in abundance. Dear Jesus, please help me. I feel myself not really
softball at Vanguard, where we did workouts on the beach, and I was
excited about life nor what you have given me. I feel like I am too April-
pressed into pitching in addition to my playing catcher. I had felt God
centered right now. Help me to give, to lay myself down, to take risks, to
leading me to Vanguard after traveling to Russia with Athletes in Action
spend everything I have like it’s the last day. Dear Lord, please have your
as a high school player. Faith and athletics were always connected for me,
way. In your name I pray, Amen.
and there was something special about Vanguard in that respect.
The next day I was riding in the passenger seat of my friend’s Dodge
I was the type of player who got the most out of my potential, the classic
Shadow, heading to the Central Valley to check out summer softball
overachiever. I kept my head in the game, and through consistency and
programs. I had enjoyed my first year on Vanguard’s softball team, and I
determination, I was always the best that I could be. It was as if God
wanted to use the summer break to improve my skills. It had been raining
knew I would need these traits for my recovery. I am now 95% independent and am able to do pretty much everything
“This injury has been the best education for me. I am constantly reminded of the Lord’s faithfulness and grace.”
on my own. I’ve been returning to my passion for athletics through the organization Greater Oklahoma Disabled Sports Association, and I even hope to begin playing softball again! I would also like to go back to school for a degree in sports science. This injury has been the best education for me. I am constantly reminded of the Lord’s faithfulness and grace. I do often wonder what it would have been like to have Sony work with me on my pitching, but I guess
for days, and in many places on the highway, there was standing water
God had a different plan for me! In the twenty years since my injury, I’ve
inches-deep. Our car hit a patch of this water and spun out of control into
experienced highs and lows and some people have told me how impressed
the path of oncoming traffic, where it was impacted head-on by another
they are by how far I was able to come back, but all glory goes to God.
vehicle. The passenger side of our car had no airbag, and I suffered a
I was so honored when Vanguard
traumatic brain injury.
University created an award in my honor, and I have always
I was in neuro-intensive care for three weeks, and a coma for three
been humbled by the dedication
months. My softball career was over, but I was blessed to be alive. I came
that Beth, Sony, and Vanguard
out of the coma on the day of my brother’s birthday, and I immediately
University have shown towards
set myself to the task of getting better—the first thing I communicated
my health and recovery. Through
to my family in the hospital when I was able to spell things out letter-by-
it all, I have never lost my desire to
letter was “How do I get out of here?”
strive to be the absolute best that I
The right side of my body was completely paralyzed, and I had to re-learn
can be!
how to walk and talk. It took me almost a year after the accident before I could even begin thinking again. I was discharged from the hospital, came home, and wanted to get out of my wheelchair as soon as possible. My recovery took a lot of hard work, time, and the blessing of God. I went
April Munroe was a catcher and pitcher on Vanguard University’s softball team from 1995-96. She now lives in Oklahoma.
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LEARN OF ME
I LOVED BEING A STUDENT HERE. As students, we “graze.” We walk
up and down the halls to see which professors have their doors open, and we absorb all we can. I learned so much about the greatness of God, and the more I studied, the bigger God got. I didn’t realize how much as a young person I had him in a box. Jesus Christ was so much more powerful and forgiving than I knew. God was not just big; he was great. VANGUARD HAS HAD SUCH AN INFLUENCE ON MY LIFE. I
transitioned from ministry to education as I discovered how deeply I could impact young people as a professor. God opened doors for me to pursue my PhD, and then I was hired here. So I’m living my dream. I still can’t believe I get to teach at Vanguard!
LIFE LESSONS FROM VANGUARD UNIVERSITY LUMINARIES
SHERI BENVENUTI
I LEARN SO MUCH FROM MY STUDENTS. I am currently undergoing treatment for cancer, and my students are aware of it, and they’re my prayer partners. Recently I was complaining about how sick I got from chemotherapy, lying in bed and asking “Why hasn’t God healed me?” One of my students came to me after class and said, “The Lord gave me a verse for you.” It was the one we all know from Ecclesiastes 3, about how there is a season and time to every purpose under heaven. But this student read me the verses after that section: “God makes everything beautiful in his time.” She told me, “This time lying in bed could be a beautiful time.” And I thought, “But if you only knew how sick I got!” But, I’ve been pondering it, and she’s right. This chemo that hurts me is also making me well. I can’t tell you how often things like that happen at Vanguard. LOVING ONE ANOTHER IS THE HARDEST THING WE DO. BUT WE ARE BOUND UP IN IT AS CHRISTIANS. It’s a commandment and a goal.
Dr. Sheri Benvenuti is an Associate Professor of Social Ethics in the
While I’m loving people, I’m aware that I can’t love them as Jesus does. But
Religion Department. She is an alumna of Vanguard University,
at the same time I’m aware that I can do better because it’s also a goal. The
and has been teaching at Vanguard for 20 years. In 2003, she
flow of God’s love through Christ has to be imminent in my life in order to
co-founded the Global Center for Women and Justice.
love people as Christ loves them. JESUS CALLING HIS DISCIPLES HIS “FRIENDS” MOVED THEIR
I WAS 32 YEARS OLD AND WORKING AS AN ASSOCIATE PASTOR AT AN ASSEMBLIES OF GOD CHURCH WHEN THE PASTOR
RELATIONSHIP SOMEWHERE. There was a covenant between him and
them. The loyalty involved in friendship is a commitment we make to others.
ENCOURAGED ME TO TAKE A FEW CLASSES AT VANGUARD. I had
I HAVE ALWAYS TREATED THE PEOPLE HERE LIKE MY FAMILY,
never gone to Bible college, or any college, yet I grew up in the Word, so I
AND THEY HAVE TREATED ME LIKE FAMILY. During a recent chapel,
came to Vanguard very arrogant. I took two classes: Intro to Theology and
Mike Beals had students, faculty, and staff surround me in prayer. It was a
New Testament Survey, and within a week I got out of class, sat in my car,
huge moment for me to feel that support. Now I get notes, cards, emails and
laid my head on the steering wheel, and repented of my arrogance!
texts from students past and present and colleagues. In fact, I recently
I GREW UP IN THE CHURCH, AND I LEARNED VERY EARLY ON TO
received a note from a graduate from 10 years ago that said, “Thinking of
SEE THE CHURCH AS AN EXTENDED FAMILY. My father was an
you today.” I thought, “She’s heard and she knows. That’s one more person
Assemblies of God pastor and my mother was an evangelist. We called each
praying for me.” Even my doctor has referred to the support I get here as
other “brother” and “sister” in those days, and we meant it.
making a big difference in my life and my treatment. I love this place.
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NON-PROFIT U.S. POSTAGE
PAID VANGUARD UNIVERSITY
55 FAIR DRIVE, COSTA MESA, CA 92626 CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED
T O
E N D
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S A T U R D AY, A Y, S E P T E M B E R 1 7 , 2 0 1 6 For fourteen years, the Global Center for Women and Justice (GCWJ) at Vanguard University has provided training and resources to enable leaders to promote justice against human trafďŹ cking and modern day slavery.
vanguard.edu/gcwj/pricelessluncheon STUDY THE ISSUES. BE A VOICE. MAKE A DIFFERENCE.
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