Vanguard Magazine - Fall/Winter 2010

Fall/Winter 2010

President Carol Taylor AN INTERVIEW WITH VANGUARD’S 9 TH PRESIDENT

PROFESSOR

Tom Carmody COMMUNICATING SUCCESS

INSPIRED TO LEAD PG.16 WATER POLO MAKES A SPLASH

VU AMONG BEST FOR VETERANS PG.18 vanguard magazine fall/winter 2010 i

www.vanguard.edu

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mission statement

As an Assemblies of God university, the purpose of Vanguard University is to pursue knowledge, cultivate character, deepen faith, and equip each student for a life of leadership and service.

in this issue

fall/winter 2010 | volume 11 | issue 2

Features Q & A with Dr. Carol Taylor ............................... 8 Vanguard magazine talks with VU’s president about the University’s future, recent challenges and her inauguration.

Comm Critic .................................................. 14 Tom Carmody, chair of the department of communication, uses

Excerpts from Vanguard University President Carol Taylor’s inaugural address, October 15, 2010 When I listen to students and alumni and faculty talk about Vanguard, the one word that is central in every story is

the legendary — and feared — senior capstone course to help

“community.” Vanguard is a community of Christ followers, a

students achieve their best.

community of learners, a community with a global reach, and a

A Pioneering Path to Leadership .................... 16

community with a home.

Student Sheyanne Romero, the first person in her family to attend

Vanguard exists first as a community of Christ followers, of

college, has risen to a place of student leadership with the help of

scholars and learners whose minds and hearts and lives have

VU’s community and professors.

been captured by the beauty of Christ, whose lives have and

VU Ranked Among Best for Veterans .............. 18

are being transformed by the power His Spirit.

VU received national recognition for effectively serving veterans,

Secondly, we are a community of learners. As an academic

with the help of its new Veterans Center.

institution, we see God’s greatness and glory at the heart of the intellectual and spiritual life of our campus. We desire to

Departments

reflect Paul’s words in Romans 12:2 — to be transformed by

Message from the President ............................. 1

good, pleasing and perfect will of God.

On Campus ..................................................... 2

We are also a community with a global reach. Today the

Sports ........................................................... 20

Assemblies of God has 2.9 million adherents in the U.S. and

Class Notes ................................................... 22

63 million worldwide. We are part of this worldwide fellowship,

Postcards...................................................... 28

birthed out of the Azusa Street Revival with a heart for the

the renewing of our minds, so that we may discern what is the

A Vine of His Own Planting ............................. 29

Great Commission. And from our inception, Vanguard has been equipping missionaries and leaders who now span the globe.

Finally, we are a community with a home, and our home at 55 Fair Drive is a special place. I experienced it the first day I visited the campus. Others who come to our campus have

University Governance Chair, Board of Trustees David Oddo University Administration President Carol Taylor

Editor Joel Kilpatrick Associate Creative Director Tawny Marcus Contributing Photographers Chauncey D. Bayes Trever Hoehne

Provost / Vice President for Academic Affairs Jeff Hittenberger

Director of Alumni Relations Heather Clements

Vice President for Business and Finance Lettie Cowie

Associate Director of Marketing and Communications Erin Schell

Interim Vice President for Enrollment Management Kim Johnson Vice President for Student Affairs Ann Hamilton Interim Vice President for University Advancement Kelly Kannwischer

the same observation — there is something incredibly special about the home we call Vanguard. It is our shared space where we are intentional about creating the physical and spiritual spaces for intellectual, spiritual and relational life together.

As we celebrate our 90th birthday this year, it is an honor to serve you as president and to be identified as a member of the Vanguard community — a community of Christ followers, a community of learners, a community with a global reach. My heart embraces you and those who have left the home we call Vanguard to live out their vocational callings around the globe.

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 3 times per year by Vanguard University of Southern California. All contents copyrighted, 2009, Vanguard University of Southern California.

Bulk rate postage paid at Las Vegas, NV. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: VUSC Alumni Relations Office, 55 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, CA 92626.

vanguard magazine fall/winter 2010 1

on campus

Students catch the vision for planting churches

Welcome Week draws hundreds of students and families

In October, VU hosted START, a Church Multiplication Network event

More than 1,000 family members and incoming students attended

that encouraged and equipped students to join local church-planting

Welcome Week in August, almost doubling last year’s attendance.

efforts. The three-day campus-wide initiative, a partnership between Vanguard, the Southern California district of the Assemblies of God and the national Assemblies of God fellowship, included special chapel services, workshops and formal and informal opportunities for students to hear from people involved in church planting.

“It was a dream to welcome families to Vanguard, because it’s not just a student who comes to us but their whole family,” says Ann Hamilton, vice president of student life. “Welcome Week provides a hospitable environment for transitioning new students and their families into our Vanguard family.”

Welcome Week prepares students and their families for all aspects of university life with a series of events designed to inform, inspire and integrate them into the campus community. The week’s activities included academic testing and preparation, worship and communion, a safety class, a club fair, a beach bonfire and more.

Each incoming student went through the week with a peer mentor.

“We want to help incoming students transition well,” says Shelley Youd, coordinator of new student orientation and parent relations.

“We prepare them for the academics, spiritual life, community life, and most of all we tell them, ‘You can do it. We believe in you.’”

The week started with a team of enthusiastic VU student-leaders moving new students into the dorms. The week ended with VU president Carol Taylor giving each new student an envelope with a tassel bearing their graduation year.

“When Dr. George O. Wood became superintendent of the Assemblies of God, he established church planting as a priority,” says Jeff Hittenberger, provost and vice president of academic

“We start with the end in mind,” says Youd. “We are focused on each student growing as a person and as a student, and reaching graduation.”

affairs. “He asked a young pastor named Joel Hunter of a multicampus church in Houston to head up church planting development for the AG nationally. Joel is sharing the vision for church planting with college students around the country.”

More than 100 students responded to Hunter’s call for a new generation dedicated to using their gifts for the kingdom of God, and a number of these committed to monthly coaching meetings with other church planters in the area. Next spring those students will connect to a specific church plant in southern California.

Hittenberger sees START as the beginning of a long-term partnership with Vanguard’s church partners.

“There are dozens of church start-ups in the area that students can join on the ground floor,” says Hittenberger. “The message of the week was that you’re not too young to think of yourself as a key person in launching the next generation of churches. This generation

This was the third year in which families and siblings attended their own slate of events.

is visionary, they see what’s possible and are ready to try new stuff.

“Welcome Week is about developing relationships and preparing

That’s exciting for our students. START was a great way to get our

students to enter the classroom with the tools and resources they

students involved in helping to plant new churches.”

need,” says Hamilton. “The students and families were so excited to be here. They want to be connected.”

2 vanguard magazine fall/winter 2010

on campus

VA N G U A R D U N I V E R S I T Y ’ S

2009-2010 Annual Report Available December 15th on the VU website The annual report contains: • • •

Enrollment statistics Financial information Articles about key events from the year

We invite you to visit www.vanguard.edu/annualreport to read this recap of the health and progress of the University.

If you prefer to have a hard copy of this year’s annual report and cannot access and print it from the VU website, please contact Vanguard University at 714-556-3610, x4031, and we will mail you a copy.

Women’s center director receives Congressional recognition

A heartwarming American Christmas film classic brought to life Dramatized by James W. Rodgers Adapted from the film by Frank Capra | Directed by Amick Byram

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND FOR CHRISTMAS 2010!

George Bailey is the everyman from the small town of Bedford Falls whose dreams of escape and adventure have been quashed by family obligation and civic duty. On Christmas Eve, when he is at his wits’ end and totally overcome with despair, he is visited by his guardian angel and shown what the world would have been like had he never been born. Audience Rating: Suitable for all ages

Sandie Morgan, the director of VU’s Global Center for Women and Justice, recently received Congressional recognition for her work in raising awareness of the problem of human trafficking. In August, Congresswoman Loretta Sanchez awarded Morgan a U.S. House of Representatives Certificate of Congressional Recognition for her “committed compassion and exemplary service to the People of

December 3 - 5 & 9 - 12 at the Vanguard University Lyceum Theater

www.vanguardtickets.com

Orange County.”

“I was humbled to receive the recognition,” says Morgan. “I’m happy any time I can bring attention to the problem of human trafficking.”

Morgan has been one of Orange County’s highest profile advocates for those affected by human trafficking. She has appeared in OC Metro magazine and organized the regional National Human

vanguard magazine fall/winter 2010 3

on campus

Trafficking Day, with Kay Warren of Saddleback Church speaking at

The service once known as Prayer and Praise continues to be

the candlelight vigil held at VU.

student-led. This year it is being led by a different worship leader

Morgan and her husband were Assemblies of God missionaries for

every month, which Abrantes says brings in a variety of students.

22 years. She administered the Orange County Human Trafficking

“People are enjoying it and experiencing God’s presence,” he says.

Task Force General for nearly three years. Now, at Vanguard, she

“God is moving.”

is involved with women’s studies projects in Iraq and Thailand, and helps churches to effectively engage issues like human trafficking and the treatment of women.

Shine’s purpose is to give students an environment in which to cultivate intimacy with God and allow his presence to change their lives, says Abrantes. The services include times of prayer,

“The stories are right here in our own back yard, not just in

Communion, moments of silence and opportunities to be baptized in

other countries,” she says. “Our mission is to equip the church

the Holy Spirit.

and collaborate with it. We focus a lot on Micah 6:8, which is a foundational principle for the work we do.”

The Center also coordinates many student initiatives and presents

“Many students tell me they’re inviting people,” says Abrantes.

“Shine is a place where God is renewing people, refreshing them and helping them through the week.”

an annual spring conference. The 2011 conference, “Ensure Justice: Defend Children,” will be February 18-19. Learn more at ensurejustice.com.

“The Global Center is here to study the issues, be a voice and make a difference,” says Morgan.

Student prayer meeting still ‘Shining’ after 23 years

CHRISTMAS FANTASIA 2010

An Evening of Celebration and Joy SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS The Rediger Family Foundation

One of the most vibrant student traditions at Vanguard, the student-led prayer and praise meeting now called Shine, continues to go strong in 2010 and has been drawing as many as 250 students every week.

“One of the reasons so many come out is we have a larger number of freshman this year. They are hungry for God and want to get involved in the spiritual activities that Vanguard offers,” says Andre Abrantes, a senior music ministry major and Shine coordinator.

4 vanguard magazine fall/winter 2010

JIM & SANDIE COCHRAN

on campus

Vanguard ranked highly by U.S. News & World Report, Princeton Review

COME

VISIT

VANGUARD You’ll see why we’ve got it all – a great education, great community, and great location!

Vanguard University ranked #9 among the best baccalaureate colleges in the West in U.S. News & World Report’s America’s Best Colleges 2010 issue. Vanguard was also named one of the best colleges in the West according to the nationally known education services company, the Princeton Review.

We’ll help you create a personal visit day that fits your schedule and interests.

“It is an honor to continue to be recognized in the U.S. News rankings, and to be named ‘a best in the west’ university by the Princeton Review,” says Vanguard University president, Carol Taylor. “This speaks volumes about the Vanguard student experience with academic programs and campus life. It also speaks to the quality of the faculty and staff that serve our students.”

Robert Franek, Princeton Review’s senior vice president, said they were “pleased to recommend Vanguard University to users of our site as one of the best schools to earn their undergrad degree. We chose it and the other terrific institutions we name as ‘regional best’ colleges mainly for their excellent academic programs.”

The Princeton Review asked students attending the schools to rate everything from the accessibility of their professors to quality of campus food, and answer questions about themselves, fellow students and campus life. Student comments about Vanguard included “community is not just a buzzword” and “professors care

Contact us at 800.722.6279 or campusvisit@vanguard.edu to schedule a visit or fill out our online form at www.vanguard.edu/admissions.

about your academic and career achievements.”

The U.S. News rankings take into account assessments by administrators at peer institutions, faculty resources, retention of students, student selectivity, financial resources, alumni giving and average graduation rate.

vanguard magazine fall/winter 2010 5

Students Celebrate the Inauguration The night before the inauguration of Carol Taylor as Vanguard University’s ninth president, student leaders threw a party to celebrate her, complete with roaming spotlights in the sky, the cool sounds of the University jazz ensemble, chocolate fountains, sparkling apple cider, customized inauguration M&Ms, confetti cannons and a tree that will be planted on the campus in Carol’s honor — a gift from the students. “It was a time to celebrate Dr. Taylor’s presidency and God’s faithfulness to Vanguard,” says student body president David Vazquez. “There is a great sense of excitement on campus about what’s ahead.”

vanguard magazine fall/winter 2010 7

Q&A

with

Dr. Carol Taylor Dr. Carol Taylor, ninth president of Vanguard University, was inaugurated October 15 after leading Vanguard through one of the most significant years in the institution’s history. Taylor, who has extensive experience in educational testing and was a vice provost at Biola University prior to coming to Vanguard in 2007, spoke with Vanguard magazine about the University’s recent challenges and the road ahead.

vanguard magazine: What drew you to education?

Taylor: Even as a child, I loved teaching. I remember lining up the chairs with my friends and playing school. When I was very young, I was already assisting in children’s church and Sunday school.

I earned my doctorate at Florida State University while teaching full time and working as a consultant to train teachers. I taught one year at Eastern Michigan University before joining the Educational Testing Service, headquartered in Princeton, New Jersey. I was responsible for a research program and the Test of Written English that was administered as part of the Test of English as

I was an elementary education major at Evangel University; at that point my vision was to be an elementary school teacher. My first teaching job was in a Greek Orthodox school in Chicago where I was the only non-Greek teacher.

I stepped into a whole new world and was fascinated by it. That fueled my

a Foreign Language, the most widely accepted English-language test in the world. I worked with a team of experts to design the test questions to ensure the test was valid and reliable. For twelve years I lived in the world of largescale assessment.

decision to go to Assemblies of God Theological Seminary (AGTS) to pursue a master’s degree in cross-cultural communication. For a while I considered teaching in Greece.

Then I took a dramatic turn into Christian higher education — dramatic because up to that time I had lived my vocational call in the marketplace. I remember trying to make the decision: should I go to Biola University, stay at

At AGTS I found myself attracted to teaching at the college level. Dave Irwin, who is no longer with us, and Dr. Del Tarr, who is now a Trustee of Vanguard, served as mentors to me. They taught me to keep a broad view of God’s call, which may lead us to unexpected places; that our places of service can take any shape or form because God is so big and creative. Those were rich conversations.

After receiving my master’s degree, I taught international students at the Uni-

ETS or accept an offer to work at a for-profit company? I prayed, “God, which one are you calling me to?” A question occurred to me, and I believe the Holy Spirit brought it to my mind so I would know my own heart: “Where can you imagine serving, where the idea of getting up and engaging in that work every day would cause your heart to sing?” As soon as I asked that question, it was clear the answer was in Christian higher education. vanguard magazine: You spent a good portion of your career in aca-

versity of Nebraska at Omaha, many of whom were Arab, Persian, Afghan and

demic assessment. What experiences translate over to your presidential

Chinese. It was an amazing time to be on a university campus. That’s when

work today?

my career shifted to teaching English as a second language. The interaction with the students, the conversations we would have were inspiring. It was an incredible time of growth and learning.

8 vanguard magazine fall/winter 2010

Taylor: One is, you never escape assessment. I have a high appreciation for and deep commitment to using good assessment and data to inform decision-

making. It informs the way I approach my work. One of the things I took

Taylor: For those who have been following Vanguard’s story for the past

from my time at ETS was a deep training in how to assess information and a

few years, they are aware that we have come through what people call the

strong analytical thinking that uses data and information to improve what we

perfect storm. In fall 2008 there was a major economic collapse. At the same

do. At Biola that helped me to lead their review process for re-accreditation

time, Vanguard faced very significant financial and accreditation challenges

and strengthen the review process that was used to improve academic pro-

that actually threatened our existence. In January 2009, I was asked to serve

grams. My training in assessment was also important in my coming here to

as acting president. A month later, I and our acting chair of the board, our

Vanguard, because Vanguard was in the middle of its re-accreditation.

CFO and the board chair of the finance committee met with the full ac-

vanguard magazine: Tell us about the challenges Vanguard University has faced recently, and about where the University stands now.

creditation commission of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). It was our regularly scheduled accreditation review, but we received an extremely harsh report. I had never seen a report that critical. When we

vanguard magazine fall/winter 2010 9

I thought of all the mornings when I had driven down the 55 freeway praying for Vanguard and saying, “Lord, when we come through this, we’ll have stories to tell, and it will be for your glory.” We came through this because we prayed as hard as we worked. As we did, things happened that went far beyond what we could have done on our own.

We are here today because God has plans for this institution.

This summer, WASC removed the sanction of probation a year earlier than they normally would, and went one step further and waived an interim visit because Vanguard is sustaining its progress.

That is above and beyond anything I imagined.

Through it all there has been this incredible sense that God is with us and has helped this institution that was birthed ninety years ago with the mission of equipping men and women initially as minisBoard of Trustees members, cabinet members and others pray for Carol Taylor at her inauguration.

ters and missionaries, and now in the full array of University disciplines. The fundamental mission is

met with the commission in February, we asked

house, improved communication internally and

still the same. We exist to equip men and women

them to defer making a decision on our accredita-

externally. To do that all in a matter of months was,

to live their lives and vocational callings for God’s

tion status until they met at their next meeting in

in my mind, miraculous. The amount of support

glory and his kingdom purposes.

June so we could have a window of time to work

and prayer and commitment to the institution was

on the issues raised by the visiting team. They

inspiring. Faculty and staff served sacrificially and

granted our request but made clear that if they had

remained focused on serving our students well.

made the decision in February they would have found us to be out of compliance with all four accreditation standards. It was as bad a situation as you could have.

By June 2009, the University had come into compliance with three of the four major standards, which was really incredible. But we were placed on probation because of our financial fragility com-

Then they gave us a list of major issues on which

pounded with uncertainty about fall enrollment.

we had to show progress. We made some major

Plus, we had a new board which had not yet met,

changes, many of them painful. For example, we

so we had not had an opportunity to demonstrate

reduced our operating budget by $3.5 million, on

the effectiveness of our working board.

top of a budget cut the previous year. We created a plan to live within our means. We created new board bylaws, policies and procedures, and established an independent board that still has strong ties to the Southern California District of the Assemblies of God. We restructured the academic

When the WASC team came back to campus in March 2010, they were, I think it’s fair to say, very impressed with the progress that we had made.

In their report to the commission they described our progress on all the issues as “phenomenal.”

vanguard magazine: Talk about your vision for the University.

Taylor: First, I am reminded that we are part of the grand story of Vanguard University, not the whole story, but an important volume in an epic that God is writing. Preceding us is a rich 90-year legacy of God’s faithfulness. Long after we are a volume in the University archives, others will follow to continue to live out Vanguard’s mission.

Of necessity, our past two years have been intensely focused on accreditation issues that, when addressed, would strengthen the University. But we do not exist for the sake of accreditation, as essential as that is. We exist to fulfill our mission to pursue knowledge, cultivate character, deepen faith and equip our graduates – men and women

“Through it all there has been this incredible sense that God is with us... We exist to equip men and women to live their lives and vocational callings for God’s glory and his kingdom purposes.”

10 vanguard magazine fall/winter 2010

Clockwise from top left: Carol Taylor with her parents, Cliff and Betty Taylor; the presidential medallion; Vanguard students surround Taylor for a photo following the inauguration ceremony.

– for a life of Christ-centered, Spirit-empowered

Taylor: I am absolutely convinced that prayer is

work we do. In every decision for hiring, especially

leadership and service.

the most critical work that a leader does. The most

at the cabinet level, I look for men and women who

important work I do as president is holding our in-

exude a confident trust in God.

A key question for us to consider now is, “Where is God taking us?” What is He calling us to be and do today given our legacy as a Pentecostal institution of the Assemblies of God, our recent journey and the needs of the world today? What are we called to do in this generation to equip students for the future? What measures will we use to know we’re successful? It is one thing to come through a major crisis and know God has a plan for us. It is another to discern and articulate clearly what that plan is.

We are engaging in a year-long vision clarity project that will include broad engagement with our community – the board, faculty, staff, students, alumni and others. We will use both quantitative

stitution up to the Lord and asking for wisdom and divine intervention, provision and help. It has made all the difference. I am convinced that Vanguard

vanguard magazine: Your inauguration ceremony was in October. Why have an inauguration fifteen months after you became president?

is here today because of an army of alumni and friends of the university and pastors and students

Taylor: I asked the board to delay it. Normally,

and faculty and staff who have been called to pray

inaugurations occur much earlier in a presidency.

for this institution. I lost count of the number of

Last year we needed to stay focused on the task of

emails and messages we received from people say-

turning the institution around. The community had

ing, “I want you to know, I’m praying for Vanguard.”

made hard changes. The campus was not ready for a party. We still had some very hard work to do. I

When the cabinet meets, we pray for the work we do. At our retreat we have reflective times and periods of silence when we pray and listen and spend time in the Word. Prayer is integral to the

felt that the entire community, including myself and the cabinet, needed to stay focused on the issues that were going to get Vanguard off sanction. I believed that if we could achieve that with God’s help

and qualitative data to inform our discussion of these key questions. Our process will also include prayerful reflection and listening, seeking wisdom and discernment with the goal of having the board approve a vision statement at its June 2011 meeting. That will then guide and inform everything that follows: strategic planning, budget allocation, the kinds of programs we nurture and support and where we will go as an institution. It is critical enough that it deserves this amount of work, engagement and prayerful reflection. vanguard magazine: Speaking of prayer, it is a foundational aspect of your leadership. Every year you spend a week alone in silent contemplation and prayer in the Rocky Mountains.

What part does prayer play in the success of an institution like this?

vanguard magazine fall/winter 2010 11

Clockwise from top left: Custom M&Ms adorned the tables at the student inauguration party; students fired off confetti cannons in celebration; Taylor with student body president David Vazquez and Vanguard students; addressing the student body.

in giving. While we are sanction-free and have been commended for a significant turnaround, we are still financially fragile. We have a meager endowment, heavy debt load and significant deferred maintenance need. Private higher education is a very expensive enterprise, and our tuition and fees do not cover the cost of educating students. So we need alums who will help us prayerfully and financially.

Third, one of the things that inspired me when I came here was to read vanguard magazine and the stories of what our alums are doing around

and have a strong enrollment for the fall, the campus and community would be ready to celebrate Vanguard. I feel deeply that inaugurations are

“I have many hopes for Vanguard. My greatest hope is that it will continue the legacy that gave it birth.”

significant moments to celebrate the institution. vanguard magazine: Vanguard turns 90 this year. What is your greatest hope for Vanguard

I love to dream and hope of a campus that is

the globe. I have since gotten to meet many

when it turns 100?

also transformed so the quality of our facilities

alums and hear their stories, and so I encourage

Taylor: I have many hopes for Vanguard. My

matches the quality of the work we’re doing here.

our alumni: tell the story of how God equipped

greatest hope is that it will continue the legacy of

Most of all, I see us being faithful to God’s call.

you for service and how Vanguard was part of

what gave it birth. I hope that Vanguard never los-

vanguard magazine: What can alumni and

es sight of its mission to equip men and women to

friends of Vanguard do to help in the short and

reflect the presence of Christ in the world. I hope

long terms?

that we continue to produce graduates whose lives have been captured by the beauty and love of God, empowered by the Holy Spirit and committed to living out their vocational callings for him and his glory and his kingdom purposes.

I also have other hopes. One is that ten years from now, or even sooner, we see an institution that is financially viable and strong, with faculty and staff

Taylor: That is a great question. There are many things alums can do to help. Three come to mind immediately: First, continue to pray for Vanguard. As I said, I’m convinced Vanguard has endured for ninety years because of the faithful prayers of generations of alums.

faithfulness. That’s an incredible encouragement for current and future students. vanguard magazine: Is there anything else you would like to say to the readers of vanguard magazine?

Taylor: At times this year I have been overwhelmed with gratitude for what I have seen the larger Vanguard community do in supporting Vanguard. On behalf of Vanguard University, thank you.

who continue to be exceptional in their field and

Second, prayerfully consider supporting Van-

equally passionate about the mission of the insti-

guard financially and introduce people to Van-

tution, which is equipping and loving our students.

guard who are able to help sustain the university

12 vanguard magazine fall/winter 2010

that. Encourage others as a testimony of God’s

Inauguration

A D AY O F C E L E B R AT I O N

Over one thousand members of the Vanguard community gathered on October 15 at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church and online to celebrate the inauguration of Carol Taylor, the ninth president of Vanguard University.

“I am thankful for God’s sovereignty in deliver-

David Vazquez, student representative and pres-

ing the right person to Vanguard at precisely the

ident of the student body, said later that there

right time,” says Jon Basalone, a member of

was a sense of excitement among students.

Vanguard’s board of trustees and an executive vice president for merchandising and marketing for Trader Joe’s Company. “The future for Vanguard University is bright under Carol’s leadership. What a joyous day this was for cur-

“Carol touched the hearts of students when she talked about her love for the community at 55 Fair Drive,” he says. “I was honored to be part of the inauguration. There was a sense of gratitude and joy the whole day.”

rent and future students, faculty, staff and family of the university.”

George Wood, general superintendent of the Assemblies of God, in his address to the gath-

The ceremony began with faculty in academic regalia filing in as the Vanguard Choir, accompanied by the Vanguard Orchestra, sang “Alleluia.”

After a prayer by Rich Guerra, superintendent of the Southern California District of the Assemblies of God, and a welcome from VU provost Jeff Hittenberger, the assembled participants sang “Great Is Thy Faithfulness” and “On Christ the Solid Rock I Stand” with the Vanguard Choir.

ering told Carol she was “chosen because the Spirit of the Lord is upon you and because you have demonstrated such incredible leadership.

You are a gift of God to this institution, and it’s a joy to represent the General Council of the Assemblies of God and give you a formal investiture as the ninth president of Vanguard University. There is overwhelming joy in this gathering today, and a celebrative atmosphere

Wayne Kraiss, president of Vanguard from 1975

on campus. This is a sacred moment in the life

to 2000 and 2008 to 2009 (interim), called Tay-

of this University.”

lor’s inauguration “truly a momentous occasion.”

Taylor then stood at the foot of the platform with

“You will serve as Vanguard’s first female

her parents and board of trustees who placed

president, and the first female president of an

their hands on her and prayed for her and for

Assemblies of God college or university,” Kraiss

Vanguard’s future.

said in his remarks. “This is a distinction to celebrate. From the very beginning of the Pentecostal movement, women have made a vital contribution as risk-takers and pioneers. Today you move to the front of a long line of women in ministry who have excelled in their calling. You are a role model for all of our students, and this

“For me this is a day to celebrate Vanguard University and God’s faithfulness and provision across ninety years, eight presidents, tens of thousands of alums, generations of faculty and staff and with great expectations for what He has planned for our future,” Taylor said in her address.

morning we celebrate with you.”

After the ceremony, over 800 people gathered Taylor then received a charge from representatives of the board of trustees, the student body and the faculty.

on the campus mall for a luncheon donated by Bon Appétit.

Co Mm Critic

T

om Carmody, chair of the department of communication at Vanguard University and a faculty member for 21 years, teaches one of the most legendary and feared classes on campus — the senior capstone course for communication majors. The class, with its daunting fifty-page paper on media criticism, looms over every graduating senior’s schedule.

“As a student, you’re deathly afraid,” says Ann-Caryn Cleveland ’98, one of Carmody’s former students and now associate professor and head of cinema/digital media at Vanguard. She recalls Carmody’s first-day theatrics: he comes to class wearing a black suit with a red tie and writes “Abandon all hope, ye who enter here” from Dante’s Inferno in Italian on the board before going over the class’ requirements.

Many students experience something close to abject terror.

But over the course of the semester, Carmody teaches them how to tackle large, complex projects. In the end, students realize they can accomplish something they may have thought impossible.

“What’s great about the class is that he walks you through this huge project,” says Cleveland. “He prepares you with skills that everyone needs, no matter what profession you enter.”

Carmody, who speaks with the clear diction of a radio host, says he is convinced undergrads can do high-level work if challenged and taught to do it.

“Every one of our majors who comes out of the senior capstone class is prepared for graduate school,” he says. “They know how to research and write. I tell them, ‘I will not lower the bar. I will give you a boost up, I will let you climb on my shoulders over the bar, but you’re getting over the bar. If you want grace, go to the department of religion. They won’t give it to you, they’ll explain it to you.’”

Carmody, who is known for his wry humor, teaches a variety of communication classes and has been chair of the department for eleven years. He came to Christ while watching a Christian television program in 1975.

“That’s what I had a passion for,” he says.

He joined the forensics team in community college to become a better preacher and accepted a forensics scholarship to Biola, helping to pay his way through college by competing against schools such as USC and UCLA. Todd Lewis, professor and chair of the department of communication studies at Biola University, was Carmody’s professor and says Carmody was one of the few students who really “got” the notion of doing rhetorical analysis of messages in popular culture.

“His research and publication efforts have continued the excellence of his commitment to investigating rhetoric in the strangest but most significant places,” says Lewis. “He teaches his students to write and provide insightful commentary and analysis. He has a winsome, satirical sense of humor, and his approach disarms students and peers. It’s no accident that he has won teaching awards at Vanguard, because he brings a commitment to excellence to the classroom, demanding of the students no less than what he demands of his own efforts.”

After graduating from Biola, Carmody hoped to pastor a church, but invitations never materialized, and he sensed another direction. One night during a time of prayer, the Lord showed him he could reach more people with the good news if he taught Christians to communicate well than if he preached to the same congregation every Sunday.

“I see teaching as a very clear ministry,” Carmody says. “I’m able to teach my students effective ways to communicate and to model good communication for them. They go out and make a difference in the world. My students are in every profession imaginable and in places I could never reach. That’s what I’m excited about, when I hear about them succeeding wherever they go.”

He earned his master’s degree in speech communication at CSU Fullerton, and his doctorate in communication from Regent University, coming to Vanguard in 1986 as the speech and debate coach. He has been a full-time faculty member since 1989, teaching media criticism, persuasion, small group leadership, contemporary issues in American public discourse, interpersonal communication, basic speech, forensics, argumentation and debate, TV advertising, science fiction — and more.

“I’m a rhetorical historian, meaning I study rhetoric within its historical context,” he says.

“My emphasis is on analyzing rhetoric. That’s why you’ll see me criticizing everything from sermons to comic books to science fiction. I enjoy the field because you can look at all kinds of communication.”

During his time at Vanguard, the communication major has grown into the second largest major at the university, with just under 200 students. Carmody credits “fantastic faculty members.”

“I’ve never forgotten that the God of the universe touched me and called me through the media,” he says. “And here I am in a department that teaches media.”

“It’s been a blessing to be chair,” he says. “I couldn’t ask for better people to work with.

They are wonderful, caring, consummate professionals. It’s been an easy eleven years because the people I work with are fantastic.”

But for years his ambition was to enter full-time ministry.

Unlike many university communication departments, Vanguard’s combines communication

14 vanguard magazine fall/winter 2010

“Sometimes we’re tough on them, and we believe in them even when they don’t believe in themselves. We expect the very best from them.”

studies and cinema/digital media to give students broader knowledge and experience, and, Carmody hopes, a leg up on the competition.

“We do a lot of cross-pollination within our department,” he says.

Each of those students eventually lands in the class known on campus simply as “media crit.” The final assignment is a 50-page paper in which they analyze a film, novel, speech or any other form of communication using a methodology of rhetorical criticism.

“I scare them in the very beginning, intentionally,” says Carmody. “I want them to take it seriously.

Within the second or third session I outline the paper and tell them how to do it. I take some of the fear away and show them how we’re going to succeed.

They take a big, nasty project, cut it into bite-size bits and get it done. They surprise themselves with what they are able to accomplish. That’s what I want for them, to come out saying, ‘I can do this.’ You can’t put a price on that.”

Students often thank him when they go to graduate

school or into their chosen profession because they feel ahead of the game.

“They are no longer intimidated by a large paper or project,” he says. “They know what research is, they know how to write. That, for me, is the victory. They believe in themselves and have the skills to succeed.

I also joke that I’m going to increase their prayer lives, because they won’t pass if they don’t pray.”

Carmody says he and the other faculty in the department want each student to leave Vanguard with greater faith, strong academic preparation and relationships that will last a lifetime.

“Vanguard provides all three,” he says. “It’s why we feel called to be here at Vanguard. Sometimes we’re tough on them, and we believe in them even when they don’t believe in themselves. We expect the very best from them. I’m sure the media crit students question whether I care for them at some point in the semester, but at the end they know that I do.”

Carmody is married and has two sons, one in high school and one a recent Vanguard graduate. vanguard magazine fall/winter 2010 15

When she first came to Vanguard, Sheyanne Romero faced the same challenges many freshman do: finding her place in the campus community, navigating the financial aid process and doing college-level work. But Romero had an additional challenge: as the first person in her family to attend college she had little guidance about how to transition to life at a university.

“We didn’t know what to expect or what to do at first,” she says. “Nobody in my family had any experience with this.”

With the help of a campus club and professors who helped her discover her gifts in writing and literature, Romero has not just survived but thrived in the new environment and risen to a place of student leadership.

Romero first fixed on the idea of attending college at the encouragement of a high school teacher. She knew few people in her hometown of Tulare who had attended college; no one in her family had experience in higher education. But Romero was convinced that a university education would open doors to the kind of life she wanted. She toured several campuses and liked Vanguard best.

She was accepted, but faced immediate challenges. The campus culture was worlds apart from the immigrant farming community where she had grown up. Filling out financial aid forms and getting loans were at times baffling. And though she struggled academically in her first year, she was determined not to let her family down. She got a part-time job to support herself and hit her stride when she discovered El Puente, a club for Hispanic students.

“El Puente is a place where Hispanic students can gather and socialize and feel more at home,” Romero says. “It’s such a culture shock for many of them to be here. Having people you can relate to can mean a lot as you transition into college life. Meeting students with the same background who are first-generation college students — it stands out to you. For me it meant there were other people like me on campus. I wasn’t alone. It made me feel even more connected to the Vanguard community.”

After a year with the club, Romero became its president, a position she is holding for the second straight year. In addition to social events, El Puente hosts cultural fashion shows, open mic poetry nights and meals featuring foods from different countries.

“It is a place where students say, ‘This is where I come from and who I am, but I’m entering a new world and I want to learn to be successful in this culture, too,’” says Romero. “We want them to embrace their Hispanic heritage, but be part of this culture and do well here.”

One of her first initiatives was to survey Hispanic students on campus to discover what they needed as a community. She found they wanted more Spanish-style worship in chapel and to hear people speak on issues that affected them directly: how to assimilate into a culture different from 16 vanguard magazine fall/winter 2010

the one they grew up in. Recently Romero brought in VU professor Greg Austring, a former Assemblies of God missionary to Guatemala, who told how he’d assimilated into that culture. The club also hosts a chapel service every month for Hispanic students, featuring messages on topics that directly affect them.

“They want to know how to do well in school and how to take advantage of our time here,” says Romero. “We try to address those things.”

In addition to discovering her leadership skills, Romero also discovered a love for literature in her English classes. In high school, because she has dyslexia, her mother made her practice reading every night.

“I got lost in these different worlds, and I loved it,” she says. “I bumped up in school reading groups and became pretty good at it.”

She wrote her first short story in her sophomore year at Vanguard and fell in love with the craft and beauty of literature.

“I knew that’s what I wanted to do the rest of my life,” she says. “I love [short story writer] Flannery O’Connor, who puts so much humanity and redemption into her stories.”

VU professor Warren Doody says that Romero has “emerged as a strong and consistent voice in the classroom, one of the leaders in the department.”

“I have been impressed and encouraged by her continual improvement over the last few years,” he says. “She has really developed her skill set as a result of being in the academic environment.”

Romero is now taking a literary look at her own upbringing by writing a book of short stories about people who live in California’s central valley.

She intends to go to graduate school so she can teach at the college level and become a creative writing professor.

“I’ve had awesome professors here at Vanguard,” she says. “I love what they do and how they inspire their students. In ten years I would like to be writing stories and have a master’s degree and maybe a PhD. I love learning and being in school, so I’d like to go all the way with that. I want to inspire young writers. I could see myself on a faculty somewhere.”

She has her sights set next on getting her MFA degree at the University of San Francisco. Each step of her academic career opens new territory for her and her family.

“Going to grad school would amaze some of my relatives,” she says. “I’m the one carrying the flag and pioneering in my family, especially for my little brother who really wants to go to Vanguard now. It makes me happy that I’ve opened doors for him. He has someone to look up to that way.”

Romero says the risk and challenge of coming to college has paid off.

“I liked that I could work hard for something and see results,” she says. “I knew college was the way to a better life.”

VU RANKED AMONG THE BEST AT

SERVING VETERANS Vanguard University’s Veterans Center recently received major recognition from the Military Times EDGE, a career and lifestyle publication for service men and women. Out of more than 4,000 colleges and universities evaluated, Vanguard was ranked 74 for effectiveness in serving veterans.

“It feels good to know that our efforts are paying off for veterans who want

Army in Iraq and elsewhere before retiring at the rank of specialist. She

to attend Vanguard to complete their degree,” says Jamie Brownlee, director

suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder and had received a traumatic

of the School for Professional Studies (SPS) where the center is housed. “We

brain injury due to a nearby bomb blast, so the idea of attending college

have a point person who interacts with every vet who comes on campus.

terrified her.

Our admission counselors are trained how to serve veterans. From their initial contact with us, veterans are connected to the services they need to succeed at Vanguard.”

“I was nervous about how large the classes would be, or if I had one of my panic attacks in the middle of class, what would people think?” says Ackerson. “I didn’t want to be misunderstood. Also, it had been a long time

To arrive at the rankings, Military Times considered financial assistance,

since I was in school. I was worried about my learning process and what it

academic flexibility, campus culture and support services. Vanguard ranked

would be like picking things up again and trying to remember information.”

high in each area because of the extensive support system that has been put in place for veterans in the past year.

At Vanguard, veterans receive assistance in completing the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) application for veteran benefits and certification of students with the VA. They have access to the learning center, disability services center and counseling center. And a veterans advisory committee offers personal counseling and mentoring to help vets transition.

One such veteran is BriAnne Ackerson, 24, who served five years with the

18 vanguard magazine fall/winter 2010

Ackerson chose to attend Vanguard because it is a Yellow Ribbon school, meaning the gap in funding left by the GI Bill is paid for in full by the University.

She was also encouraged to hear that Vanguard has a Veterans Center.

“If a school has a veterans center, it usually means they support us and understand some of the things we’re going through,” she says.

She has attended VU for three semesters, pursuing a psychology degree. The Veterans Center connected her with the disability office which communicated with her professors about her special circumstances.

“I don’t think I would have made it without the support of the Veterans Center. It has been an amazing experience.”

“That helped me out a lot,” she says. “I never expected so much help and

to sit with someone who is going through the darkest time of their life, and

understanding from the professors, the staff and the students. I don’t think

let them know that I also have been through dark times, whether in a combat

I would have made it without the support of the Veterans Center. The point

zone or away from my family, and to see the light come on as we make room

person there was always available to talk to me about my fears and issues. It

for the Holy Spirit through prayer. As a chaplain you’re literally saving lives and

has been an amazing experience.”

seeing spiritual warfare being won by the Holy Spirit.”

The Veterans Center continues VU’s long tradition of serving men and women in

Brownlee is glad that Vanguard’s strategic efforts to become a veteran-friendly

the military. VU was the only Assemblies of God school to prepare chaplains for

institution have been acknowledged by a national publication.

service in World War II. More recently, VU alums like Lisa (Ferrario) Northway ’94 continue to distinguish themselves in military service. Northway is the only active-duty female Assemblies of God chaplain serving in the U.S. Army.

“The opportunities to minister to people in the Army are virtually unlimited,” Northway says. “A lot of recruits are struggling with missing their families and building their support systems as a young adult. It’s such an exciting thing

“With the help of many veteran students and community members, we have been able to accomplish much in the past year,” she says. “I am excited about the progress thus far and about where we are headed in the future.”

For more information on the Veterans Center, please visit www.vanguard.edu/ veterans.

vanguard magazine fall/winter 2010 19

sports

Lions water polo plunges in The VU Lions men’s water polo team debuted this fall under first-year collegiate head coach Ed Carrera, a veteran southern California player with international experience.

“We are very excited about the water polo program,” says Vanguard athletic director Bob Wilson. “Ed brings to us great enthusiasm, expertise and a desire to build a quality water polo program at Vanguard. We selected him as our coach because he fits what we’re looking for at Vanguard. Plus, he helped start the water polo program at Concordia University, so he knows the ins and outs of building a program. He hit the ground recruiting and found good student-athletes for our teams.”

The Lions have already ventured to the east coast for a tournament at the U.S. Naval Academy and came away 2-3.

“It’s a big accomplishment to get two wins in that tournament,” says Carrera.

“We played Navy, who is #15 in the country, and held our own. We’re going to surprise some teams this year. I’d like to be in the top 20 in the next couple of years. We definitely have the potential.”

Carrera says the recruiting process yielded “a really strong group of guys.

When I started recruiting my first goal was to get a solid offensive player, someone with the right attitude, a positive attitude.”

He found that player in Kevin Burzynski, who has a family history at Vanguard.

20 vanguard magazine fall/winter 2010

Burzynski, a junior, has been playing water polo since age nine on club teams.

He started all four years on the high school varsity team and was captain of the team at Saddleback Community College. He describes himself as a utility player who can post up, guard set and shoot from the outside.

“I chose to come to Vanguard because of the Christian influence it has. I really enjoy that,” he says. “I loved the campus and everything about it. And I like Ed a lot. He’s a great coach. It’s a great opportunity to play water polo and I feel blessed that it came into my life.”

Burzynski says opponents thus far have underestimated the Lions, thinking that a first-year team can’t be competitive. But the Lions have fared well at tournaments, winning nearly half their games.

“Other teams get an eye-opening experience real fast.” Says Burzynski.

“We’re pretty talented for a first-year team, and we’ve surprised a lot of people.”

Carrera was himself a four-year letterman at Irvine High School. He also earned his junior national time standards for the 200-yard breaststroke.

At Saddleback College in Mission Viejo, Carrera earned top ten honors for the state of California for scoring, assists and steals. He ranks third among all dual-season scorers in Saddleback water polo history and was named First Team All Conference in 1997. He finished his collegiate career at Chapman University, where he was team captain. He also played in Argentina and trained with the Argentinean Junior National Team.

sports

Earlier this year Carrera and his brother, who have dual citizenship with Ecuador, played for the Ecuador national team in the South American Championships. Ed was the leading scorer for the team. In 2008, Carrera placed fifth in the Masters Nationals USA Water Polo under 40.

Carrera began coaching in 2002, and in 2007 helped the Northwood High School Timberwolves become CIF (California Interscholastic Federation) Finals runners-up. Carrera led the Timberwolves to CIF playoff berths for boys and girls every year as coach.

In the past four years, Carrera helped his brother launch the water polo program at Concordia University. In that time, Concordia rose to #12 in the country.

He left Concordia for Vanguard because “being at the helm of a start-up program was very enticing,” he says. “The area is wonderful, the community itself is one of the happiest places I’ve ever been. There’s a great vibe here on campus. I enjoy the challenge of starting a new program and I am extremely excited about the future of Vanguard water polo as well as the future of water polo in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA). This is a great fit for me.”

Vanguard decided to add an aquatics program in the spring of 2009. The introduction of men’s water polo this fall, and women’s water polo in the spring, will complete the program.

Water polo is not an NAIA sport, but four NAIA schools now offer it, each of them in the Golden State Athletic Conference: Fresno Pacific, Vanguard, Concordia and Cal Baptist.

“California is a hotbed for water polo, but there aren’t a whole lot of opportunities for kids to play or places for them to go at the university level,” says Wilson. “This provides a place for them to get a faith-based education and play their sport. We want to work with other NAIA schools and create really good base of water polo.”

The men’s team will play thirty games this fall. Carrera has finished recruiting for the women’s team, which will compete next spring.

Burzynski says next year should be even better as the team develops its play, has more time to condition and welcomes back all of its players.

“We’re unified as a team,” he says. “It took a little time to feel out everybody’s chemistry in the water and understand how everybody plays, so we can play fluidly. But we’re past that now. Next year I think we’ll be hard to stop because nobody’s leaving. We’re going to be a powerhouse. I would put our starting line-up up against any starting line-up out there.”

Experience Lions athletics like never before!

Introducing the all new vanguardlions.com, showcasing the full range of Lions athletics in a stunning new design, starting December 1.

•

Keep up with rosters, news, scores and schedules in any sport you choose.

•

Sign up for mobile or email updates customized to the teams you want to follow.

•

Make the Lions part of your Facebook and Twitter feeds for instant updates.

•

Support your alma mater!

Show that Gold Pride — visit www.vanguardlions.com starting December 1 and stay on the home team!

vanguard magazine fall/winter 2010 21

class notes

Class Notes ’60s Wayne ’64 and Judy (Balliet ’64) Cagle serve on the faculty of Asia Pacific Theological Seminary and conduct training and leadership development in the nations of Asia and the Pacific Islands. The Cagles also teach at leadership seminars throughout the region.

Maile Proctor Cortez ’65 served as an elementary school teacher for 34 years and is now part of the patient advisory group for the Open Door Clinics. Maile moved from Silicon Valley to the Pacific Northwest where she lives with Frank, her husband of 27 years.

Gracie Cloud ’67 taught for 16 years at Christian schools and academies such as Orange Christian, Newport Christian, Maranatha Christian Academy and Woodenville Christian.

She served as director of children’s ministry in a number of Calvary Chapel churches in Washington state and California. She is now a teacher-trainer and consultant for churches. She lives in Bothell, Wash., and enjoys being near her nephews, nieces, grandchildren and elderly mother whom she cares for.

Gilbert Eigenhuis ’64 retired 16 years ago and now teaches and serves as a deacon and a member of the financial committee at his church.

He enjoys helping wife Joan who volunteers in the 4- and 5-year-olds class at church. Joan is a part-time instructor at Ventura College. The Eigenhuises enjoy spending time with their many grandchildren playing soccer and attending little league games.

Joyce Smiley Guerra ’67 retired after teaching for 32 years, mostly in kindergarten. She enjoys singing in her church choir and attending Bible studies.

Send us your photos!

Guy Heath ’66 is a professor of philosophy at Northwest Florida State College. He writes, arranges and produces records in his music studio.

Virginia “Ginger” (Whalstrom ’65) Haan married Dr. Cornell “Corkie” on December 31, 2005. Ginger is a licensed Assemblies of God minister and has worked with the General Council and Exodus International. She now assists Corkie in his ministry, Kingdom Connection (kingdomconnections.org). The Haans live in Cave Creek, Ariz., and have five sons, three daughters-in-law and seven grandchildren.

Bob Ledbetter ’67 married in 2002, creating a blended family of seven children and 12 grandchildren. Turn Around, his novel about spiritual warfare, was published in 2007. The Ledbetters live in Waldport, Ore. Ruth (Tuzon ’65) Morales and husband Josue have been involved with The Salvation Army in Florida and have seen the hand of God at work in many lives. This year, Ruth and Josue became proud grandparents for the third time.

Wanda (Forney) ’61 and John Morgan, both pastors at Port Susan Chapel in Marysville, Wash., enjoy riding bikes and being in the company of friends. This past summer on an Alaskan cruise, John suffered a major heart attack. Thankful for the prayers of people around

We would love to showcase pictures of your new baby, wedding or anniversary in Class Notes. Email your photos to alumni@vanguard.edu or mail your prints to: Alumni Relations, 55 Fair Dr., Costa Mesa, CA 92626. Prints will not be returned.

22 vanguard magazine fall/winter 2010

them, Wanda reports that the doctors expect John to make a remarkable recovery.

Rebecca (Mitchell ’66) and Dale Myhill ’70 recently moved from Alaska, their home of 33 years, to Lake Stevens, Wash. They are excited to be closer to their sons’ families, which include grandchildren Noah, 4, and Sophia, 2.

Janice Cunningham Rogers ’63 is collaborating on her sixth book with brother Loren Cunningham while serving full-time with husband Jimmy with Youth With a Mission.

Now living in East Texas, the Rogers’ specialty is discipleship teaching with an emphasis on communication skills and technology, for the purpose of training and sending out young missionaries. They have seven grandchildren and three sons who are married to women of different nations, Brazil, France and Sweden.

Frances (Okafuji ’68) and David Wakefield ’70 became members of Wycliffe Bible Translators (wycliffe.org) in 1970 and remained in the organization for 40 years. They celebrated the dedication of the Miniafia New Testament on February 26. The Wakefields completed 50 percent of the translation and trained others to complete it. It was a milestone for the members of team and the people of Miniafia.

Marjorie (Brown ’68) and Philemon Zachariou ’67 live in Sacramento where Philemon teaches at Capital Bible College. Margie worked for the Department of Social Services. Philemon received his PhD in biblical studies from International Seminary in Plymouth, Fla., in October, 2009. They have two daughters.

’70s Phil Cagle ’71 relocated from Hawaii and Guam to help his sister and brother-inlaw at a horse ranch in California. His recent adventures include chasing cows and coyotes.

Kurt Dahlin ’78, MA ’92 started a nonprofit organization, Water Wells for Africa (waterwellsforafrica. org), which brings clean water and the gospel to Malawi, and equips local pastors. Kurt led many international outreach teams and has been to 30 countries. He is an avid fisherman and environmentalist. He, wife Irma and their six children live in southern California. Each summer the family organizes a service project to remove trash from the Merced River in Yosemite National Park.

Restoring salmon habitat Brian Swift ’03 is the executive director of a non-profit watershed council that restores salmon habitats in the waterways of rural western Oregon.

Decades of logging and road construction have removed or disrupted salmon habitats in the creeks and rivers where salmon spawn. Some creeks suffer from high water temperatures and lack of shade because too many trees were cut down. The oxygen and nutrient levels of the water are also affected.

Gloria (Romero ’76) Howey has been married to Steve Howey for 19 years. She is thankful for his support of her through 24 surgeries.

Ruth (Van Deventer ’71) and Walt Porter ’68 are both retired from teaching but enjoy substitute teaching. The Porters have two daughters, Rhonda who lives in Bremerton, Wash., with her family and Kim who is a professor of humanities at Phoenix University.

Ruth and Walt live in Burleson, Texas.

“They used to clean out the rivers with bulldozers, thinking the salmon could reach their spawning grounds easier,” says Swift. “Now we’re putting logs and boulders back in the creeks which creates shaded pools, the habitat for baby salmon.”

Alfonso Sayo ’77 is still grateful for the influential friends, classmates and professors from his SCC business classes. Alfonso has been an insurance claims examiner and insurance broker for the past 28 years. He lives Rocklin with son Michel.

Laurie (Chamberlin ’79) Vaughn has been a fourth grade teacher for ten years and lives in Bakersfield with husband Dan. She is proud that all of her children have college degrees. The Vaughn family includes two daughters and son Brad ’08 and wife Cortney (Zemanek ’09).

Swift’s work is focused on the coastal Smith River, a tributary of the Umpqua

River. The degree in cultural anthropology he received from Vanguard helps him work with the many different parties who have an interest in the land usage, he says.

“Going to Vanguard was a great opportunity,” he says. “I loved it. Studying cultural anthropology taught me to relate to people effectively and create better projects in the work I do.”

Swift spends part of his time in the field, checking on the creeks and rivers that make up the watershed, leading restoration projects and proposing others. He sent a draft of one grant proposal to VU professor Vince Gil who made “helpful comments,” says Swift.

Swift was awarded a $152,000 grant from the Bureau of Land Management for a new project.

’80s

real estate. They are proud that their son Gineton and nephew Wesley are students at Vanguard.

Gineton Alencar ’85 established the first Christian radio and TV station in Brazil. Wife Antonieta was a popular worship leader and singer in Brazil as well. They now live in Boca Raton, Fla., where Gineton continues to pursue business ventures in mining, hotels, media and

Connie (Seaward ’82) Ong lives in Renton, Wash., and recently authored a book, Letta in China, about her grandmother, a pioneer Assemblies of God missionary to China.

vanguard magazine fall/winter 2010 23

class notes

’90s

’00s

Steve Arnold ’90, wife Simona, and son Eric returned to the U.S. after serving the people of Belgium and France for seven years. They witnessed God’s provisions there in many ways including the design and publication of Victoire magazine. They also ministered to local women and children and preached every week in local churches.

Leslie (Schaefer ’00) Ballard is the senior instructional designer for Asurion Insurance Services, based in Nashville.

She and husband Mike are active in miniature pinscher rescue and Civil Air Patrol. They live in Murfreesboro, Tenn., where they are also newly converted Titans fans.

Jennifer (Kirkwood ’96) Hartl is the principal of Kirkwood Christian Schools in Downey. She and husband Forrest have two children, Forrest Jacob, 4, and Henry Wolfgang 2.

Stacy (Hembree ’97, MA ’05) and Ryan Helbling ’96 are missionaries in Tanzania (globaleffect.org). Ryan is the chaplain at Fountain of Hope, a boarding school, and a pastor at a church. Stacy loves being a missionary, wife and mother of four. She recently participated with two thousand other runners in the Mount Kilimanjaro Marathon.

The Helblings have four children: Rylee, Lily, Benjamin and Rayna.

April (Waisanen ’98) Moore was the literacy coordinator for the San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools for two years and is now the assistant principal at Corona High School. She lives in Lake Elsinore.

Michael Whitford ’99 and wife Robin recently relocated to Washington, D.C., to serve as pastors at Ebenezer’s Coffee House, the main campus of National Community Church. They will also help the lay leaders of the church with leadership development. They have two daughters, Michaela and Rhema.

24 vanguard magazine fall/winter 2010

research assistant at Texas Tech University. Calli worked in the undergraduate admissions office at Vanguard and with Entourage and Delivery Boys. She now enjoys being a stay-at-home mom in Lubbock, Texas.

Mariah (Levy ’02) Cook and husband Jarret live in Salt Lake City where she is helping to launch East Lake Church (eastlakeslc.com).

Melissa Benson ’06 is a medical supervisor in Palo Cedro. She has a daughter, Jadyn, 3.

Kymberly ZemanekBlack ’04 and husband Todd serve at Covina Assembly of God. Todd is the community life pastor; Kymberly works part-time as the children’s director. Kymberly also owns American Sleep Centers, which diagnose patients with sleep disorders. They live in San Dimas and have two daughters, Jantzen, 15, and Janell, 13.

Rachel Bomgren ’07 is an assistant manager at Enterprise Rent-A-Car. She makes her home in Santa Ana. Dale “DJ” Busse ’04 is an assistant manager at Big O Tires in Costa Mesa. He models fedoras for Gap and Old Navy on the side.

Veronica Castaneda ’06 received an MA in theology from Fuller Seminary this summer and will start her MFT coursework there this fall.

She is the full-time youth pastor at Iglesia De La Communidad in East Los Angeles.

Calli (Adams ’05) and Dylan Christenson ’06, MA ’09 welcomed their first child, Samuel, in June and have high hopes that he will be a future Vanguard Lion. After teaching high school mathematics at Segerstrom Fundamental High School in Santa Ana, Dylan is now a full-time student pursuing a graduate degree in environmental engineering. He works as a

Alex Felix ’06 has served at Calvary Chapel Chino Valley for the past ten years. He is also a staff analyst for the San Bernardino County fire protection agency in their office of emergency services.

Gary Hendricks ’01 had an established career as a police officer for the Costa Mesa Police Department when his captain suggested he pursue a degree through Vanguard’s School of Professional Studies.

Hendricks earned a master’s degree and enjoys his career as a member of the command staff at the Citrus Heights Police Department near Sacramento. He has a son, Mason.

Nancy Wai Yu (Ng ’03) Kim and husband Paul, an Assemblies of God pastor, have been married for five years. Nancy is a director with a network marketing company (usana.com). Their blended family lives in Malaysia and includes grown daughters Faith, Eden and Phoebe.

Rachel (Laverty ’06) Lindburg lives in Costa Mesa and is married to Daniel, a fourth grade teacher. Rachel is a stay-at-home mother to daughter Lileigh Grace, 2.

Lauren (Manriquez ’05, MA ’09) Tovar is a liberal studies and Spanish teacher. She lives in Diamond Bar with husband Chad and their daughter Sofia, 2.

class notes

Vu Tran ’02 works as an insurance agent for AAA. He was married in 2007 to Trisha Wynn.

They have a 17-month-old daughter, Madison and are expecting another child in April. They live in Anaheim.

Cortney (Zemanek ’09) and Brad Vaughn ’08 spent almost two years in Hawaii, where Brad served as a first lieutenant Army officer and Cortney was a junior high history and literature teacher. Cortney is back in California

John and Laura (Ely) Brock ’04 are parents to their first daughter Eva, born April 26.

John has been a part of several startup companies and is a partner and instructor at a Christian yoga studio in Fountain Valley.

living near family while Brad is stationed in Iraq.

Wade and Elise (Crouch) Vaughn ’02 celebrate seven years of marriage. They live in Nampa, Idaho, where Wade works for an agricultural irrigation company. Elisa owns and operates a clothing and jewelry boutique, The Brass Razoo (brassrazooboutique.com), which Lucky magazine listed as #2 in its top ten favorite new boutiques in a recent issue.

Cecia “Cookie” Villarin ’05 lives in South Gate and is a research coordinator for Kaiser Permanente’s infectious diseases and cardiology departments. She is involved in missions work at Cottonwood Church and has traveled on several short-term mission trips, most recently to the gypsy communities in France. Cookie hopes to continue supporting mission efforts around the world.

Future Alumni Jesse and Becky (Oberg) Aguilera ’07 had their first baby, Embry Dessa, on May 25. Jesse is the youth pastor at Gardena Valley Assembly. Becky received her MA in theology and biblical studies from Fuller Theological Seminary in March and is now the junior high Bible teacher at Gardena Valley Christian School.

Alum drafted by Mets Peter Birdwell ’09-’10, a right-handed relief pitcher who co-led the Lions with 19 appearances on the mound last season, was drafted in the 25th round of the 2010 Major League Baseball draft by the New York Mets. He pitched the 2010 minor league season for the Kingsport Mets in Tennessee.

“I’m having a blast,” Birdwell says. “I take one day at a time and thank God before I step on the field that he gave me this opportunity.”

Birdwell, a native of Spokane, Wash., is the son of another Vanguard pitcher, Dan Birdwell ’77. Peter helped the 2010 Lions leap to #6 in the nation at one point last season.

“I wish that season could have lasted longer,” he says. “We had a close group of guys. I was blessed to end my senior year with them.”

Birdwell’s curve ball drew notice as he pounded the strike zone at Vanguard.

He earned more attention at the draft workout, which led to his being drafted by the Mets. He spent the year pitching relief for their minor league team.

“From the time I was a kid, my dream was to pitch in the minor leagues so I could say I got paid to play baseball,” he says.

“I worked hard and kept on pushing. Now I have a new dream: to make it to the major leagues.”

Kristin (Plew ’04) and Jeremy Jones ’03 have been married for seven years. They live in Coos Bay, Ore., and have two children, Jeremiah David, 2, and Kylie Grace, born in May.

Cheyenne (Noel ’98) and Tim Luehrs ’00 welcomed Donovan Michael on March 9.

He joins big brother Brody and sister Lydia.

Tim is a police officer for the city of Phoenix.

Cheyenne is an RN for Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Arizona.

Alum voices success Michael Mulligan ’05 has worked in a number of southern California theaters and for several years provided the voice for Crush the Turtle at Disney’s California Adventure’s Turtle Talk interactive show. He worked for Walt Disney Imagineering as a sound-alike for Goofy and various Monsters, Inc. characters at the Disneyland Resort and for the Disney Co.

Nicole (Thorn ’03, MA ’06) and David “Randy” Miller ’02 live in Stanton. They are the parents of Lark, 2, and Aria, born this year.

Just Married

“It’s a difficult career, but I’ve always loved musical theater and performing,” says Mulligan.

“I still wake up every morning thinking about it.”

Mulligan and his wife Kristin recently moved to New York City and have been auditioning almost non-stop for commercials and stage productions. Mulligan recently acted in a production of “The Man of La Mancha” in Hilton Head, S.C. While a student at VU, Mulligan began working for Disneyland as an in-park character entertainer. He also performed in concerts at the Hollywood Bowl as part of their Broadway series. At Disney, he flourished in voice work. Turtle Talk — a show where Crush the Turtle speaks with audience members in real time — required extensive “turtle training” and delving into Crush’s character, Mulligan says. “You have to know how a character thinks. It’s just as important as getting the voice right.”

He credits his training at VU, and particularly Amick Byram, an adjunct professor at VU, for mentoring him and promoting his career.

Corrine (Gonzales ’06) Kammer and husband Timothy welcomed daughter Amelia on August 19.

26 vanguard magazine fall/winter 2010

Kelly (Channing ’04) Newell married Ken on September 5 in Yorba Linda, with their wedding reception at the Richard Nixon Library. Ken is a Los Angeles county sheriff; Kelly is a legislative analyst for the County of Orange.

They reside in Orange.

“Amick is a wonderful leader and a dear friend,” says Mulligan. “He always treated me as a professional. That was very empowering. I felt I could bring ideas to him.”

Mulligan played the lead role in “Brigadoon,” the first show Byram directed at VU. “The thing I loved about Vanguard was being given the opportunity by everyone in the department to do really creative things,” says Mulligan. “From scenic design to technical theater as well as costume design, it’s a big family. I have great relationships from the Vanguard theater program.”

The Mulligans now live in the same New York apartment building as fellow VU alums Chris ’05-’06 and Kelsey (Cook ’07) Guerra.

Jennifer (Hall ’98) Kurtz and husband Greg are the parents of Madelyn Hope, born in July.

Madelyn has an older brother Caleb, 11, and an older sister Hannah, 6.

Sarah (Cowper ’04) Rosendahl received an MA in Spanish from Cal State Sacramento in 2009. She has been a Spanish teacher and cross country coach at Marina High School for five years. Sarah married Dave, executive vice president and cofounder of MindFireInc, on July 24. The newlyweds attend Rock Harbor Church and live in Newport Beach.

Chelsea (Richardson ’10) and Joel Danei ’09 were married July 31 in Erie, Pa. Chelsea is the college ministries intern at St. Peter’s by the Sea Presbyterian Church and also works at the Old Spaghetti Factory. Joel worked at a Boys and Girls Club center in Santa Ana before becoming a shift coordinator at Marshalls. He is pursuing an elementary education teaching credential.

They live in Huntington Beach.

class notes

Jamie (Bell ’09) and Keith Jones ’10 met as members of the Vanguard Singers and Band. On August 28 they were married and now make their home in Springfield, Mo., with hopes of earning masters degrees at the Assemblies of God Theological Seminary and one day starting a family.

Kelly (O’Dell ’98) Casciotta was the first RD for Catalina Hall at Vanguard from 20012006 before taking a job at Rock Harbor Church as the associate pastor on the Community Life team. She married CJ Casciotta on September 11 and they honeymooned in Ecuador. CJ is a consultant for Frontgate Media and the non-profit My Broken Palace. They live in old town Orange.

Carrie (Lindburg ’03, MA ’07) Rodriguez has been a Spanish teacher for seven years. She married fellow teacher Alfonso on June 25. They are involved with the Christian club and Bible study at their respective schools and serve in the children’s ministry at their church, The Father’s House.

They also love to salsa dance.

Jonathan Souza ’06 married Krystal on October 3, 2009.

They live in Grass Valley where Jonathan is the music and youth pastor at a church and has a private music studio.

In Memory Jerry Biffle ’71 passed away September 9.

Pauline (Hannon ’41) Blackinton passed away January 6.

Vera Jane (Richey ’43) Corrigan passed away July 13.

Gwendolyn (Boyd ’32) Foth passed away August 8.

Larry Rose ’62 passed away July 6.

Josh Thorne ’01 passed away September 15.

Chuck Woodworth ’57 passed away February 11.

VA N G U A R D U N I V E R S I T Y

Alumni O N FA C E B O O K Vanguard University Alumni, think back to when you were preparing to move into the dorms on campus...

What did you pack to remind you of home?

My grandpa Eigenhuis’s old leather Bible!

–C Gilbert Eigenhuis Jr ’1961-1964

A quilt that my grandma made!

–Alicia (Baldwin ’98) LaJoie

My old rocking chair from home.

–Katie (Matteson ’65) Torres

My writing journal with thoughts and reflections about family and friends.

–Gari Hatch ’80

The 12 volt stereo cassette player I pulled out of my car.

–Joe Petito ’84

Pictures, Pictures, and more Pictures.

–Lilian Leon ’09

postcards

The Sparks family from left to right, Suzanne, Joey, Cory, Maddie, Annie and Steve.

EDITOR’S NOTE: The column features an essay by a different alum each issue.

Start with what you’re good at When I came to Vanguard I was newly saved and had just quit my job on a fishing boat in the Pacific. Like many new believers, I wanted to go to the mission field and win as many converts as I could, though I had no idea how or where to train for ministry.

I was traveling through California when I stopped to visit a friend at Vanguard. I knew nothing about the school, but in a short time I became certain that God wanted me to attend. They were two weeks into the semester already, and though I had no transcripts or references, Dr. Lewis Wilson, the academic dean at the time, agreed to pray about allowing me in. The following week I was enrolled in classes and on my way to earning a degree.

But a degree in what? Knowing my desire to go to the mission field, Dr. Wilson had helped me sign up for a slate of cross-cultural ministry classes that included Hebrew and Aramaic. But looking at

28 vanguard magazine fall/winter 2010

the syllabi, I knew I wouldn’t last long in those. So I went in for another talk with Dr. Wilson, and what he said has stuck with me for the rest of my life.

“God starts with how he made you and what you’re gifted in,” he said after listening to me. “He may take you out of those gifts into another calling.

But start with what you’re good at. Sign up for the classes that were easiest for you in high school.”

I promptly dropped Hebrew and Aramaic in favor of zoology, calculus, physics and chemistry. I got straight A’s. I put the same effort into my schooling as I had into fishing — 20-hour days of study and working a part-time job. Vanguard equipped me in profound ways for the life God had for me. I learned leadership as senior class president. I met my wife, Suzanne (Asmuth ’86) Sparks, there. I served the poor by ministering in juvenile hall and convalescent homes.

I graduated, went to medical school and became head vascular surgeon at UC San Diego, a post I held for eight years. Then God opened the door to missions.

Five years ago my family and I left everything to go to Cameroon where I started a residency

training program to train African doctors and disciple them at Mbingo Baptist Hospital. I am now chief of surgery, and the hospital has grown exponentially in size and the types of services it provides. God had a plan and I’m grateful he wanted us to be part of it.

Dr. Wilson was a major influence on my life and changed the Archer, the Sparks’ beagle way I look at things. At a critical moment he pointed me in the right direction. Now, as I counsel many a young Christian doctor, I tell them what Dr. Wilson told me: start with what you’re gifted at. God will take it from there.

Steven R. Sparks ’86 Chief of Surgery Mbingo Baptist Hospital, Cameroon

a vine of his own planting

Women in Vanguard’s history Women have played vital roles at Vanguard University from its earliest years, with faculty numbering nearly as many females as males at times. As Vanguard inaugurates its first female president it seems appropriate to reflect on some of the women who provided leadership to the institution in its beginning, laying a foundation for the next ninety years.

In 1918, Hulda Needham and her husband Harold believed they were being called to start a Bible training school in Southern California though their youth, limited academic experience and lack of financial or denominational support made it a seemingly impossible task. After months of frustration when only their sense of mission made them persevere, Hulda, in prayer with her mother and several close friends, received the empowering word which the Needhams would never forget: “This is a vine of my own planting.”

Hulda’s mother, Anna Eldridge, a gifted Bible teacher who once had been the director of the Colorado School for Deaf and Blind Children, shared her daughter’s vision for the school. When it opened she was instrumental, through her church, in providing facilities for many school functions as well as much of its financial support.

A rich New York widow, remembered today only as “Mrs. Ropes” by those who knew her, was so impressed by Hulda, who reminded her of a beloved deceased

sister, that she gave the Needhams a fifteen-room house, complete with a tennis court, in the Los Angeles suburb of Highland Park. But after gratefully occupying it, Harold and Hulda became convinced that the property had been a gift from God for the school and announced that classes would begin there in May 1920.

In the intervening months the Needhams were commissioned by the general presbyters of the newly-formed Assemblies of God fellowship to make an oversight tour of Asian and Near Eastern Missions. Believing the trip would increase the missions emphasis they desired for the new school, they entrusted its leadership to an experienced team which included two talented women, Matilda Kerr, a former school teacher, and her daughter, Christine Peirce, a gifted pianist, composer and speaker, both of whom would make invaluable contributions in the school’s first two years.

But Hulda Needham would not see the school for which she had sacrificed so much. The strenuous Asian tour so eroded her health that she died in India during its first year. When her devastated husband returned home, he initially refused any role in the school but eventually was persuaded to teach a missions class and then to accept its leadership. But throughout his over twenty fruitful years as president, Harold Needham would always regard the school as “a monument to her whose life was poured out.”

–Lewis Wilson,

Academic Dean Emeritus

vanguard magazine fall/winter 2010 29

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