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Fall/Winter 2014

Breathing for Laura Turning tragedy into hope

Life as a Testament Veteran Alum finds healing and Renewal

Alumni shaping the h e a lt h c a r e c o m m u n i t y

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6 The mission of Vanguard University is to equip each student for a Spirit-empowered life of Christ-centered leadership and service.

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in this issue

Fall/Winter 2014 | volume 16 | issue 2

The general theme of this issue of Vanguard Magazine is health and wellness. When talking about the importance of good health, we often

HEALTH AND WELLNESS............................................ 8

employ the word “temple” as

Five alumni share their stories about how a Vanguard education prepared them for a

a metaphor to describe the

successful career as a healthcare professional.

THE KEY TO A HEALTHIER MARRIAGE. . ........................ 20 Guest contributor and Vanguard professor Dr. Gary Tyra discusses the keys to a healthy marriage, with passages from the book he recently co-wrote with his wife, Patti Tyra.

LIFE AS A TESTAMENT.............................................. 23

sacred nature of our physical selves.

This word powerfully commends the miracle of our created bodies, those complex organisms through which we experience the created universe.

Seen from a perspective of reverence and gratitude, it is apparent that we

Army veteran and Vanguard alumnus Christopher Kupitz found healing and renewal

have a clear responsibility to honor God’s gift to us by paying attention

through the Veteran’s Resource Center.

to our health and wellness, and that those individuals tasked with

BREATHING FOR LAURA........................................... 26 John Brock turns tragedy into hope through the power of social media.

WELLS OF LIVING WATER......................................... 42 Pastor Kurt Dahlin digs wells in the developing world, sharing the Gospel and educating villages about serious health issues.

helping us do that –such as the doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals found in these pages—are worthy of our great respect!

Dr. Paul Grundy ’74 is a renowned physician who was one of the very first Vanguard students to attend medical school. Over a 40-year career in medicine, he has received numerous honors, and was recently named one of ten Danish healthcare ambassadors in recognition of his work to transform healthcare in Denmark.

Departments

Dr. Terry Zeigler has long been a professor of kinesiology at Vanguard,

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

and in recent years took on the role of coordinator of the Student Health

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

Center. Her enthusiasm and concern for the well-being of Vanguard

Faculty Spotlight...................................................... 32 Sports.. .................................................................. 34 My Story.. .............................................................. 39 Class Notes.. .......................................................... 40 Learn of Me............................................................ 42

students is evident in any conversation with her.

Jodi Olshevksi ’89 joined a nursing home ministry as a Vanguard student, during which she discovered a paucity of good healthcare for the residents. She used this early experience to launch her career as a gerontologist, and she now advocates powerfully for healthcare for older adults.

Eric Arnold is a future healthcare professional. He will graduate from Vanguard soon, after which he will attend medical school with the goal of serving overseas as a medical missionary (following in the footsteps of

University Governance Chair, Board of Trustees

Doug Green

University Administration President

Director of Marketing and Communications

his father, missionary Steve Arnold ’90).

Erin Hales

These are just a few of the remarkable healthcare professionals featured

Creative Services Consultant

in these pages. They embody the values of Vanguard University through

Tawny Marcus

Michael J. Beals

Writer / Copy Editor

Provost / Vice President for Academic Affairs

LEAD Photographer

their service to the well-being of God’s greatest creation.

Rene J. Scheys

Doretha O’Quinn

Chauncey D. Bayes

Vice President for Business and Finance

Senior Graphic Designer

Candice Co

Lettie Cowie

Vice President for Enrollment Management

Michael J. Beals PhD President, Vanguard University

Kim Johnson

Vice President for Student Life

Tim Young

Vice President for University Advancement

Kelly Kannwischer

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, 2014, Vanguard University.

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

vanguard magazine FALL/WINTER 2014

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on campus

ON CAMPUS VANGUARD UNIVERSITY HOSTS FAMILY WEEKEND One of the goals of Vanguard University’s Office of Student Success, Retention, and Family Relations is to engage students and their families with the university experience in multiple and meaningful ways. To this end, each year Vanguard invites students to bring their families to campus for a weekend of activities that connect parents and siblings to the lives of their Vanguard student.

“We want to give opportunities for families to engage each other and the Vanguard community in the hopes of helping both to flourish in our community,” said Amanda Lebrecht, associate director of student success & retention. “Family Weekend is our families’ first Vanguard President Michael J. Beals breaks ground on the Scott Academic Center renovation with members of the Board of Trustees.

opportunity to come together again after Welcome

VANGUARD UNIVERSITY BREAKS GROUND ON SCOTT ACADEMIC CENTER RENOVATION AND EXPANSION

developing story with one another.”

On October 4, 2014, Vanguard University

the strength of the University, and it shows

invited faculty, staff, students, alumni, and other

that when operating with biblical principles

distinguished guests to the Scott Academic

and sound business practices, we can thrive.

Center on campus to officially kick-off the

The renovation is also emblematic of where

renovation and expansion of Vanguard’s

Vanguard is, rooted in our strong heritage yet

“front door,” and to celebrate the generosity

moving forward to even greater relevancy.”

of those who made the project possible.

Upon its completion in Fall of 2015, the Scott building will feature a new wing with ten new classrooms, broadened space for programs like the Veterans Resource Center, the Global Center for Women and Justice, and the Nursing Program, upgraded restrooms, more parking, and enhancements to the exterior of the structure—all while preserving recent

“The renovation represents the hard work and generosity of many people,” added Dr. Beals. The Scott Academic Center capital campaign has raised over $6.8 million of a $7 million goal, led by campaign co-chairs and Foundation Board members Gary Gray and Curt Carson. Vanguard University is also

Week and allows them the chance to share their

Students and their families had a number activities from which to choose during Family Weekend. These included a volunteer opportunity with Second Harvest Food Bank, Family Beach Day, a women’s volleyball game vs. Azusa Pacific, performances by the theatre department of The Beat Goes On, a Family Bonfire and Wii tournament, and an opportunity to worship and take communion at Shine, Vanguard’s beloved student-led worship service.

“We communicate to our students every chance we get that their stories matter,” said Lebrecht. “Family Weekend, as well as Grandparents Day, allow for families to join in their students’ Vanguard story and to begin to create a story of their own within our community.”

The Burley family, freshman Dani (center), with parents John and Shari, enjoys brunch during Family Weekend.

grateful to the Board of Trustees, the City

additions like the Veterans Courtyard of Honor.

of Costa Mesa, the Don Judkins family, the

“I am very grateful that the Scott Academic

advancement, and many private donors, all of

Center renovation is happening at this time,”

whom dedicated immense resources to see the

said Dr. Michael Beals, president of Vanguard

project come to fruition.

Donn Rediger family, VU’s office of university

University. “It is an indicator of the health and

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@VANGUARDU

TWEETS @LorenHicks We are @VanguardU moving our daughter into the dorm. Exciting day! #welcome2vu

@DMelgar @VanguardU is getting a facelift!!!

I’m so excited! Great things are happening!

@VanessaRod_10

(clockwise, from top) Dr. Sandra Morgan listens to survivor advocate and author Shyima Hall; Keynote speaker Jody Hassett Sanchez; guests listen to the keynote address.

GCWJ HOLDS SECOND ANNUAL MORE PRICELESS THAN DIAMONDS FUNDRAISING LUNCHEON Vanguard University’s esteemed Global Center

GCWJ director Dr. Sandra Morgan. “For the

for Women and Justice hosted the second

second year, co-chairs Darrellyn Melilli and

More Priceless Than Diamonds luncheon at the

Mary Beth Molnar led the amazing committee

Balboa Bay Club on September 13, 2014,

that engaged long time partners, including

with over 300 in attendance. The annual

event sponsors Karen and Barry Meguiar, and

luncheon, doubled in size from last year’s event,

new friends Patti and Jim Edwards.”

raised awareness on one of the growing crimes in southern California, human trafficking. Jody Hassett Sanchez, formerly of ABC News and CNN, now acclaimed news and documentary producer, was the keynote speaker at the event.

Ed Arnold, retired news anchor, emceed the afternoon and held an exclusive interview with Maria Hall Brown from PBS, alongside survivor

At the close of the luncheon, the Global

“Make friends. Friends for a season.

Friends for a reason. Or friends for a lifetime.” @VanguardU #PreVU

@TwiggyGomes Wow! Shine was so good tonight!

Also had late night dorm talks with the roommates! God is so good and is working through us all! @VanguardU

@allybabaker Trying to study @VanguardU when a squirrel walks by my table and distracts me. #normalVUthings

Center for Women and Justice announced the first-ever Diamond Award winners for those whose activities and commitment promote justice and dignity for human trafficking victims in Orange County. TAALK (Talk About Abuse to Liberate Kids) founder Diane Cranley won

advocate and author, Shyima Hall.

for Outstanding Business, Bobbi Dauderman,

“The More Priceless Than Diamonds luncheon

Outstanding Individual, and Nicole Morris,

brought together over 300 advocates, partners,

youth volunteer for Frederick Douglass Family

and friends of Vanguard University,” said

Initiatives, took the award for Outstanding Youth.

@ashleyf253 I love going to a school where people will take time out of their days to stop and pray for me. @VanguardU

advocacy chair for Women of Vision, won for TWEET @VANGUARDU SOME LOVE AND YOU JUST MIGHT END UP IN THE NEXT VANGUARD MAGAZINE!

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on campus

FACULTY BOOKS & JOURNALS D OU GLA S PE T E R SE N Petersen, Douglas, Murray W. Dempster and Byron D. Klaus.

The Globalization of Pentecostalism: A Religion Made to Travel Eugene: WIPF and Stock Publishers, 2013.

(Previously published by Regnum Books, 1999).

EL I Z A B E T H PO W E LL Tisdale, T, Ying, A., Ziesel, J., Shier, K., Powell, E., Park, E., Nam, J., Klein, M., Desai, H., Nunez, D., Myers, V., Girlando, C., Camp, C., Amadi, P., & Abraham, S. (2013).

Holding both unity and diversity: Spiritual formation at Azusa Pacific University Department of graduate psychology.

Journal Of Psychology & Christianity, 32(4), 291-303.

L U D M I LLA PR A SLO VA Praslova, L. (2013).

Assessment Leadership from the Trenches: Facilitating the Move from “Grudging Compliance” to Creative Ownership.

November/December 2013 issue of Assessment Update, Wiley.

D R. D O R E T H A O ’Q UI N N Dr. Doretha O’Quinn, Contributing Writer Kimberly Battle-Walters Denu, PhD and Janet S. Walters.

VANGUARD HONORS NEW PROVOST DR. DORETHA O’QUINN AT SPECIAL INSTALLATION CEREMONY On Wednesday, October 15th 2014,

among them her mother and grandmother.

Vanguard University officially welcomed Dr.

“They made me believe that God could use

Doretha O’Quinn to her position as vice

me in a special way,” said Dr. O’Quinn.

president of academic affairs and provost of

After surveying Vanguard University’s proud

the University. Dr. O’Quinn has spent over 34

history as an Assemblies of God academic

years working as an administrator, principal,

institution, Dr. O’Quinn spoke about her goals

and teacher in public and Christian K-12

as provost. “I wish to cultivate a climate of

schools and universities in southern California,

collaboration within the community, broaden

most recently as the vice provost of multi-

and strengthen faculty and student scholarship,

ethnic and cross-cultural engagement at Biola

research, and publication that advance

University. She received her PhD and MA from

academic opportunities, promote a strategic

Biola University and a BA from Life Pacific

plan for educational technology to advance

College of San Dimas, Calif.

online learning, expand outreach programs,

At a ceremony packed with Vanguard students, faculty, and staff, as well as many of Dr. O’Quinn’s family, friends, and colleagues,

and employ faculty from diverse ethnic backgrounds who will embrace the mission and values of Vanguard University.”

president Michael Beals enthusiastically

Dr. O’Quinn is also blessed to lead

introduced Dr. O’Quinn and charged her

Vanguard’s academic community at a time

with the duties of the office of provost, which

of growth and optimism for the University. “I

he summed up as “ensuring that all areas of

am excited for the expansion of Vanguard

the University align with our mission.” After

facilities that allow space to advance our

receiving a charge from student and faculty

programs,” she says. “I’m also excited about

Rutledge, D., Wickman, M., Winokur, E. J., Loucks, J., Drake, D. (2013).

representatives, Dr. O’Quinn was presented

expanding technology, engaging faculty, and

with a special provost medallion and then

strengthening global outreach opportunities,

“The Hospital Staff Nurse Perceptions of Competency to Care for Patients with Psychiatric or Behavioral Health Concerns.”

prayed over by Dean of Spiritual Formation

which opens the door for expanding

Jonathan Allbaugh and Vanguard faculty.

Vanguard’s mission for service by both students

Journal for Nurses in Professional Development.

gratitude to many family and friends, chief

Mothers are Leaders Abilene Christian University Press, 2014.

M A RY W I C K M A N

In her remarks, Dr. O’Quinn expressed

and faculty.”

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Coming to Vanguard’s Lyceum Theater

U.S. NEWS & WORLD REPORT ANNOUNCES VANGUARD UNIVERSITY IN TOP 12 BEST COLLEGES, #5 FOR VETERANS SCHOOLS U.S. News & World Report released the

As a top veteran-friendly college in the

30th edition of its leading Best Colleges

U.S. News & World Report rankings for

rankings, measuring academic excellence.

2015, Vanguard’s Veterans Resource

Vanguard University holds onto its spot

Center offers a range of services for vets,

in the top 12 Best Colleges in the West,

including career counseling and academic

with a new #5 ranking for Best Regional

support, assistance in finding veterans

College in the West for veterans.

benefits and connection to programs which can cover nearly all of their tuition.

The 2015 edition of Best Colleges includes data on nearly 1,800 schools nationwide to help parents and students navigate their college and university

Want to get more information about Vanguard? Visit vanguard.edu/ undergraduate/request-information

ah, wilderness!

A Tender Comedy that explores coming-of-age and young love in idyllic 1906 America

By Eugene o’neill

options. Eligible schools are ranked on up

D i r e c t e d b y k e v i n s l ay

to 16 measures of academic excellence

Eugene O’Neill’s magnificent storytelling takes center stage in Ah,

such as graduation and retention rates.

Wilderness! as he invites us to join the Miller family on the Fourth of July weekend in an idyllic 1906 Connecticut town. The story unfolds

Come See What’s New! You’re invited on a tour of the Vanguard Campus

into a tender retrospective portrait of small town family values, teenage growing pains, and young love. “A breath of fresh air... A miracle of sense and sensibility... Vividly alive.” - New York Post.

Join Justin McIntee ’98, MBA ’08, Associate Vice President for Development and Campaign Management on a personal tour of campus.

February 27- MaRch 1 & March 5- 8

From the Scott Center renovations to the new soccer field complex and fresh new gym graphics, see the exciting new look of Vanguard.

General $14 Senior/CHILD/Groups $12

Email justin.mcintee@vanguard.edu or call 714.966.5440 to schedule your visit.

Purchase tickets At vanguardtickets.com vanguard magazine FALL/WINTER 2014

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Through These Doors Architectural renderings of the Scott Academic Center show the dramatic new façade of the building, along with the expanded space for the Nursing Center, the Veterans Resource Center, the Global Center for Women and Justice, and 10 new classrooms. The official groundbreaking ceremony was celebrated by many of the people responsible for bringing the project to fruition. Campaign alumni co-chairs Pam (Box) Crenshaw ’92 and Barbi (Bethany) Rouse ’74 joined Vanguard Legacy families and alumni (pictured bottom right).

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Vanguard University education naturally entails developing the mind, through rigorous academic work, and refining the spirit, through relational discipleship. No less important is the vessel in which our mind and spirit reside: the remarkable organic machine that is the human body.

In diverse ways, each of the doctors, therapists, and other healthcare professionals in these pages helps to usher in healing of the body, reflecting the works by which Christ made himself known on earth. Their devotion to this task embodies the leadership and service at the heart of Vanguard’s mission, and represents the lasting transformational effects alumni have on their communities.

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J U L IE H o y e , P h D P h a r m a c e u t i c a l

R e s e a r c h

When Julie (Harris ’02) Hoye is asked about her work in the research lab of Pfizer, the pharmaceutical company she was employed by for seven years, her answer is about as straightforward as can be: “I solubilized peptides in order to get them to conjugate to the back bone of an antibody,” she says.

If that description is a bit dry for the non-scientist, she is also able to put it

spot in an undergraduate research fellowship at Cal State Fullerton. This

into less esoteric terms. “I always told my mom it’s like I’m making recipes

fellowship, along with an opportunity to tour the labs of a pharmaceutical

for cookies,” she explains. “I need to find a recipe to make the antibody

company as a student, opened Julie’s eyes to other opportunities for students

happy, just like you need to have the proper mixture of ingredients to make

with a biology and chemistry degree. She went on to earn a PhD from

good cookies. If one or more of the elements aren’t right, the antibody won’t

the University of Arizona in Pharmaceutical Science, and Dr. Miller’s and

be stable, and it won’t be therapeutic anymore.”

Dr. Lorance’s mentorship followed her there. “They were there for me all

Julie’s “cookies” were important. She was doing research for oncology and diabetes, a position she found rewarding and demanding, with many long

the time,” says Julie. “Whenever I was discouraged and overwhelmed in graduate school, they encouraged me.”

hours in the lab. After she and her husband had their two children, however,

Julie’s time in graduate school did more than prepare her for her future

Julie found that she wanted an arrangement that allowed for more flexibility

career. “During my PhD work, God became very real to me,” she says.

with time, so she transitioned out of the lab into project management. She

“I felt like a failure so often, but God picked me up and gave me strength to go on.”

“Studying cancer pathways and vaccines opened my mind to how creative and diverse God is.”

Julie Hoye, PhD now works for a company that studies viruses and manufactures vaccines, contributing to research for future cancer therapies. Whether in a white lab coat or managing projects, Julie is proud to be exploring how the leading edge of science technology can serve the needs of human health.

And Julie found God in the science. “Studying cancer pathways and vaccines opened my mind to how creative and diverse God is,” she says. “We are doing so much to study and fight cancer, and we still are not close to defeating it. If there are so many unknowns with cancer, how many more are there with God? My work has revealed even more to me the mystery of God.” This is why Julie has little patience for the culture wars that pit straw-man versions of “science” versus straw-man versions of “faith.” She explains, “At Vanguard I had a great model of scientists with PhDs asking questions about God from a scientific point of view. Science isn’t going to disprove God. In my case, it was exactly the opposite: it opened the door to how big He is.”

When Julie arrived at Vanguard University as a student, she was a pre-med biology and chemistry major, planning to fulfill a dream of becoming a physician. She was mentored at Vanguard by biology professor Dr. Cecil Miller and chemistry professor Dr. Don Lorance, who helped her land a

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D r . J e s s e Pa y n e B r a i n

E x p e r t

Before Dr. Jesse Payne ’06, MA ’09 became the Director of Undergraduate Teacher Education at Corban University, and the Director of Education at the Amen Clinics, he witnessed the power of brain disorders and mental illness firsthand.

The fact that we are not taught about the amazing complexity

Now, in addition to being a professor

of your own brain—and, by association, your life—

of the human brain, the importance of helping it work right, and the connection between our brain and our life is insane.

When you begin to grasp some of the practical and easily understood brain basics, you will be amazed to learn that you have to power to improve your brain and have a better life.

By understanding the inner working of your brain

Brain Fact #1:

and how they relate to all aspects of your life, you’ll

You Are Your Brain

begin to understand why you are the way you are,

As profound as this might sound, the simple fact

and why you act the way you act. Your tendencies, your struggles, your personality—all of these come from your brain. But it’s not like you’re just born with the brain you have and you’ve got that brain your whole life. Once you realize that, the amount of power and influence you have over the function

is that you are a construct of your brain. Let’s think about this for a second. Your heart-beat, bodily functions, organs, movements, thoughts, moods, actions, reactions, interactions, personality, memories, health, spirituality, happiness, feelings, relationships, successes, energy, focus, creativity, failures, problem-solving skills, anxieties, diet,

and researcher, Dr. Payne recently

becomes clear.

released Change Your Brain, Change

Of course, before you become the master of your

the moment-by-moment functioning of the three-

Your Life (Before 25), and it has

brain, it is important to start with the brain basics.

pound supercomputer housed within your skull.

quickly received powerful feedback.

The eight brain facts in this chapter may appear

You brain is involved in every aspect of your life. It

absurdly simple and commonsensical. Well, this

controls everything.

The book, a follow-up to fellow Vanguard alumnus Dr. Daniel Amen’s

is true, and that’s the beauty of it. What you will find after reviewing each of these brain basics

decisions, hurts and dreams are all dependent upon

Brain Fact #2:

(information that’s based largely on the work I did

Your Brain is Ridiculously Complex

Your Brain, Change Your Life, shows

with Dr. Amen during my time at the Amen Clinics)

As much as we have learned about the brain in just

students, parents, teachers, coaches,

is that you have probably never stopped to put it

the past decade, we still have not even scratched

all together. Perhaps you’ve known this information

the surface of understanding how incredibly

all along, but when you couple it with the powerful

complicated the human brain is. In fact, many

’78 NY Times Bestseller, Change

and mentors how they can unlock the ability to shape the developing

program in this book that will help you change the

argue that there is nothing in the universe more

mind. The following is an excerpt from

way your brain works, things will begin to click.

complicated than the human brain. Nothing.

Change Your Brain, Change Your Life

And you will undoubtedly give your brain the

Your brain is estimated to have more than one

(Before 25) in which Dr. Jesse Payne

respect it deserves.

hundred billion neurons within it, and these

reveals some fascinating truths about the human brain.

neurons have trillions of supporting cells. To complicate things further, each of these trillions of supporting cells can have as many as forty thousand connections (called synapses) between them. This

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“There are more connections in your brain than there are stars in the known universe.”

DR. JESSE PAYNE

means that a piece of your brain tissue the size of a

Of course, your brain is surrounded by fluid and

BRAIN FACT #7:

grain of sand has more than one hundred thousand

housed in a protective skull, but this is often taken

NORMAL IS NOT NORMAL

neurons with more than one billion synapses all

for granted. While your skull protects your brain,

talking to one another. The critical consensus is that

the brain is still quite vulnerable. When you house

In all the years I have taught others about the brain,

there are more connections in your brain than there

something that is very soft in a compartment that is

are stars in the known universe.

very hard with ridges along the sides that can be as

BRAIN FACT #3:

YOUR BRAIN IS NOT FULLY-DEVELOPED UNTIL THE AGE OF 25

sharp as knives, disaster can strike if proper care is not taken.

the single most destructive obstacle I have faced is people feeling that they were not normal because of a brain struggle. The stigma of feeling flawed, less human, isolated or somehow to blame for their struggles is powerful and difficult to overcome.

BRAIN FACT #5:

In the real world, the harsh reality is that normal is

WHEN YOUR BRAIN WORKS RIGHT, YOU WORK RIGHT

a myth. We all have brain struggles. Try to think of

When your brain is working right, you have a much

time with a focus, attention, organization or time

greater chance of working to your full potential.

management issue, or with impulsivity, compulsivity,

This is when you have the greatest access to

stubbornness, argumentativeness, sadness, irrational

yourself—who you really are and what you can

worries, low motivation, or sleeping difficulties. We

really do— and have the ability to achieve the goals

all have issues. That is what is normal.

you have set for yourself.

The message here is simple. Our brains are a result

But what happens if your brain is not working

of genetics, experiences, traumas, thoughts and the

right? Chances are that you might be having some

decisions that we make each and every day. To think

trouble in your life. This can happen if your brain is

that it is normal for people to live their life without

underactive, or not working hard enough in certain

hardship is naïve. Science is confirming this more

areas. It can also happen if your brain is overactive,

and more. It’s time to put the stigma attached to

now can affect the rest of your life.

or working too hard in certain areas.

mental disorders to rest.

BRAIN FACT #4:

BRAIN FACT #6:

BRAIN FACT #8:

We may like to assume that we are adults when we turn eighteen; however, the truth is our brain is still undergoing a significant amount of construction until our mid-twenties. Research has shown that the brain is not fully developed until a person reaches about the age of 25. For some males, full development can extend until age 28.

What does this mean for you? If you are under 25, this means every decision you make, every thought you have, every action you take, all the food you eat, the amount of sleep you get and everything else you do throughout your day has a significant impact on your developing brain. In short what you are doing

a single person who has not struggled from time to

When we think of the human brain, we often

CERTAIN PARTS OF THE BRAIN ARE ASSOCIATED WITH CERTAIN BEHAVIORS

YOU CAN CHANGE YOUR BRAIN AND CHANGE YOUR LIFE

imagine a rubbery, firm organ. This is probably

New and exciting research has brought us an

When you study the brain and begin to understand

because the brains we have seen outside of skulls

impressive amount of information about the

its complexity, respect its fragility, appreciate its

are typically kept in formaldehyde, which makes the

brain, though there is an overwhelming amount

potential, and realize the power you have over

brain firmer and more rubbery than it really is. Your

of information we still do not know. One of the

how it functions, a spark ignites within. This spark

living brain has about the same consistency as warm

more exciting discoveries concerns which parts of

of empowerment and hope can shed light on the

butter, an egg white, soft gelatin, or soft tofu. If I

the brain are associated with specific behaviors

darkest of situations. This knowledge can also

were able to take the top of your skull off, I could

and tendencies. We have begun to understand that

increase the efficiency and productivity of those who

stick my hand in your brain and mush everything

problems in certain parts of the brain tend to cause

are already doing well. Regardless of who you are or

around to create one giant mess. Now that’s a

specific symptoms and struggles.

what your situation is, the bottom line is you can be

YOUR BRAIN IS QUITE FRAGILE

terrifying thought.

a more successful and joyful person if you embrace the fact that you have the power to change your brain and therefore your life. vanguard magazine FALL/WINTER 2014

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D r . C o u r t n e y Ma r t i n O B / GYN

C h i e f

RE s i d e n t

Courtney (McKinney ’03) Martin can rightly claim that she’s always wanted to be a doctor—she still has a picture of herself as a child dressed in hospital scrubs. Now a fourth-year OB/GYN chief resident at Loma Linda University Medical Center in Loma Linda, California, she is the rare person who has found her dreams in childhood exceeded by real life. God called Courtney to be a physician early on, and he used Vanguard University as a pivotal part of her journey to follow that call.

Courtney attended Vanguard on a basketball scholarship, and she credits

When she became a mother herself, Courtney gained a new perspective on this

her time on the team for shaping so many of the traits that have made her

honor, and it also gave her a new perspective on the problem of limited access to

professionally successful. “Being on the basketball team taught me inner strength

healthcare that many women in the developing world and even the United States

and resiliency,” she says. “I learned about work ethic, integrity, exercise, and

face. “In Africa, post-partum hemorrhaging is a common cause of death during

teamwork, all of which helped me when I went into medicine. Bob Wilson and

childbirth, and that’s a problem a very inexpensive pill can prevent. As a mother

coaches Russ Davis and Mike Cherney played a huge role in that, emphasizing

I know that baby has a name even in the womb, and as a doctor I know that

a balance of athletics and academics with caring, kindness, and character.”

it’s unacceptable for his or her mother to die while pregnant, in labor, or post-

Courtney also loved attending chapel. “I learned how to pray at Vanguard.

partum—or for the child itself to die.”

I learned about myself and God.” While at Vanguard, she always counted on the support of her parents, who never missed a basketball game, and she met her husband, Scott Martin ’04, who helped her through every step of the process of becoming a doctor.

Courtney has always seen her work in medicine as an extension of her Christ-like obligation to serve others, and she is uniquely free to do so at Loma Linda University Medical Center, which is a faith-based institution. “The mission of

“I am able to care for my patients’ physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional health. It’s a reflection of what I learned at Vanguard, and why I went into medicine.”

Dr. Courtney Martin

Loma Linda is ‘To make man whole,’ and I’m blessed to be able to treat the whole person,” she says. “I am able to care for my patients’ physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional health. It’s a reflection

As a physician devoted to the sanctity of life, it is impossible for Courtney not

of what I learned at Vanguard, and why I went into medicine.” Courtney is

to be concerned about the multitude of problems facing the developing world

privileged to be able to offer her patients a genuinely human encounter. “I look

and the United States on the issue of healthcare. Her concern is not driven by

people in the eye, I touch their hand. I talk to them, and I pray with them.”

politics or economics, however. It is driven by a desire to dignify the miracle of

Courtney’s favorite part of working as an OB/GYN chief resident is that she gets to deliver babies. “I love handing the baby to the mother for the first time,” she says. “I love the look on her face when I do, because she has 100 different emotions all at once. I get to be a part of the miracle of life. It never gets old!”

God’s creation by virtue of the training, skill, and generosity of spirit with which she has been blessed. “In the Bible, [the Gospel of Luke] says, ‘For everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded,’” says Courtney. “I have been so blessed in life. I have to give back.”

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G a b e G o l d m a n , DC C h i r o p r a c t o r

The etymology of the word chiropractic has roots in the Greek terms for “hands” and “concerned with action.” Fundamental to the practice of chiropractic care is that the “medicine” of the practitioner is his or her own hands, applied with expertise to the body of the patient to enhance its operation. Gabe Goldman ’04 is a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) with a practice in Costa Mesa, a few miles from Vanguard University.

He is not just geographically close to Vanguard; his ties to the University

as a basketball team walk-on during his freshman year, Gabe ran into

remain strong, as he volunteers his time, skill, and knowledge to the Student

trouble with injuries, and never fully regained the form he had early on. The

Health Center and the athletic training program. Being able to give back

experience gave him a deepened sense of empathy for the Vanguard athletes

to Vanguard some of what was given to him is one of the most rewarding

he helps today. “Now when I’m in patient care experiences, I remember the

aspects of his career. “I love helping students and athletes get better with the

pain I felt in my ankles,” he says. “Those injuries are tough, and I know that

tools I have,” he says.

the athlete can feel helpless. To be someone who can help bring an athlete

There are a number of different schools of thought in the discipline of

through that is very satisfying.”

chiropractic, and Gabe’s specific practice is rooted in physical therapy

While at Vanguard, Gabe focused his studies on pre-physical therapy. He

complemented by chiropractic adjustment. For a normal visit, Gabe will

loved his education and professors like Dr. Terry Zeigler. “When an internship

warm up the patient, stimulate muscles, and deliver hands-on manual therapy

at a physical therapy office—which I got through Vanguard—led to a

massage. “I’ll really dig into the muscles, to try to change and improve their

position at a rehab-based chiropractor, I discovered that I had a foundational

function,” he explains. This is followed by an adjustment, often focusing on

knowledge that was extremely valuable in the patient care setting,” recalls

the spine, which affects much of the body. “The adjustment can really have

Gabe. “The endorsement of the doctors at that practice really helped me to

an incredible impact on a person’s health. I had a patient recently—actually

know that I could do it.” Those doctors also encouraged him to apply to

a Vanguard student—who came in only able to turn her neck within about

graduate school, and he completed his DC at Southern California University

“To be someone who can help bring an athlete through [an injury] is very satisfying.” Gabe Goldman, DC 20% of its normal range. After one adjustment, she recovered her full range of motion, which obviously had a profound effect on her quality of life.”

Gabe became acquainted with the emotional and mental setbacks that

of Health Sciences, which provided him with a rigorous, science-based chiropractic education. “The chiropractic program was very similar to medical school curriculum with the exception of a focus on pharmacology.”

Now in his private practice, Gabe is able to spend time with patients, connecting with them on a personal level and providing counsel and support when appropriate. Developing a positive doctor-patient relationship with those he treats, in a relaxed and trusting atmosphere, is essential to a good adjustment. And as Gabe sees it, when that balance is obtained, God can bring about wellness. “As a chiropractor, I get to appreciate God’s creation,” he says.

“God gives us great tools and amazing bodies that can correct themselves, and I get to help usher that healing response in.”

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J ODI OLSHEVS K I G e r o n t o l o g i s t

For Jodi Olshevski ’89, it was something that Vanguard University didn’t have that influenced her powerfully as a student and instilled in her an early passion that became a successful career.

“I was a sociology major and wanted to get involved right away in student ministries,” she recalls. “I thought I might join a kids ministry, but at the time, Vanguard didn’t have one. But they did have a nursing home ministry.”

Jodi is now a gerontologist and the executive director of The Hartford insurance company’s Center for Mature Market Excellence. But when she got dropped off at the nursing home ministry as a young Vanguard student years ago, she found herself challenged by an extremely difficult environment. Despite her inexperience and initial discomfort, Jodi decided to throw herself into developing relationships with the residents at the nursing home, and doing so exposed her to the desperate need for advocacy and quality care for older adults.

A pivotal point in Jodi’s time at the nursing home came when she took a resident named Kay to one of her visits to the doctor. Jodi was astounded and discouraged by the treatment Kay received. “It was clear to me that she was viewed as a second-class citizen and a bother in that particular doctor’s office,” says Jodi. “She had to assert herself in order to be taken seriously, as if she were less competent because she had white hair and a walker.”

Jodi realized that these issues – quality of life, access to healthcare, and inequality – were being encountered by many of the other residents at the nursing home, and that she could take her interests in social justice, marry them to her concerns for all the people with whom she had built relationships, and find her life’s calling.

during which Jodi worked at a consulting firm advising on elder care issues— specifically how paying attention to these issues can benefit corporations. When this company was bought out by a larger corporation, Jodi went on a job hunt and found her current position working as a gerontologist at the insurance company The Hartford, where she currently directs the Hartford Center for Mature Market Excellence. The center conducts original research in partnership with academic institutions and produces public education programs on safety, mobility, and independence. Jodi leads a team of gerontologists who, by virtue of The Hartford’s partnership with the AARP, are able to create viable solutions to promote quality of life for aging individuals.

As the director of the Center for Mature Market Excellence, Jodi has had a number of successful projects that are improving the lives of the elderly. “We work on promoting the idea of universal design,” she says. “Instead of a home limiting a person’s ability to live independently, it is designed to meet the needs

“She had to assert herself in order to be taken seriously, as if she were less competent because she had white hair and a walker.”

Her interests in social justice found their expression at Vanguard, particularly under the tutelage of sociology professor Dr. Vince Gil. “He was the single most influential person in my life as a student on a number of levels,” says Jodi. “He was a gifted teacher who taught me to think in class and open my mind. His instruction on the nature of gender roles was revolutionary and very freeing, and it made a large impression on me in adulthood. He also taught me about the influence that culture and religion have on who you are as an individual.” Dr. Gil also gave Jodi tacit lessons in comportment. “He was a mentor in terms of how to be a professional, and how to have an equal partnership in marriage and balance family life. That also made a big impression on me.”

Dr. Gil directed Jodi towards pursuing a Master’s degree in gerontology from the University of Southern California, after which she began her career at Huntington Hospital in Pasadena, California as a care manager, helping older adults stay in their homes for as long as possible. This was followed by a period

JODI OLSHEVSKI

of its inhabitants, regardless of abilities, with features like wider doorways and no thresholds. The Hartford has a policy endorsement that allows consumers to make these changes, which is an example of how our center is influencing social change through the development of a product.”

Work in the for-profit sector doesn’t always align with the values of an individual committed to social justice, which is something that Jodi readily admits.

“There is a tension there,” says Jodi, “but the opportunity to do some good, and something of value is also there. I need to have meaning in my work. I can contribute to the well-being of older adults, and I have a big arena to play in.”

Jodi has taken her passion for social justice and aging and conceived with it a career of significance. The inexperienced Vanguard freshman who volunteered for the nursing home ministry so many years ago undoubtedly had no clue that she would someday have such a powerful national platform from which to advocate for older adults. vanguard magazine FALL/WINTER 2014

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THE KEY TO A HEALTHIER MARRIAGE:

A H E A LT H I E R Y O U !

Dr. Gary Tyra teaches theology courses in Vanguard

focuses on the cultivation of transformational marriages

University’s traditional undergrad program and the School

which enable marital partners to become more whole human

for Graduate and Profesional Studies—courses which aim

beings who don’t run away from life.

to help students experience growth toward spiritual, moral, and ministry maturity. Having spent over three decades providing pastoral leadership for three congregations, he now devotes himself full time to teaching, mentoring future

by Dr. Gary J. Tyra Professor of Biblical and Practical Theology

leaders, preaching in various churches, and writing.

Among the several books authored by Dr. Tyra is Beyond the Bliss: Discovering Your Uniqueness in Marriage (IVP Books, 2010). Co-authored with his wife, Patti—herself a Vanguard alum (B.A., M.S. in Clinical Psychology)—this book

Currently, Gary is working on a sixth book titled Pursuing Moral Faithfulness: Ethics and Christian Discipleship. This volume will be released by IVP Academic in June, 2015.

As is evident from the courses he teaches and the kind of books he writes, Dr. Tyra’s abiding passion is to see as many people as possible recognize the vital difference between mere “churchianity” and genuine Christianity, and to be equipped to live their lives as fully devoted followers of Christ in an increasingly post-Christian world.

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ccasionally, my wife Patti and I are asked to speak at church conferences and retreats on the subject of marriage. One of the big ideas we’re careful to communicate in such settings is that there’s a huge difference between being married a long time, and enjoying a truly healthy marriage. At the time of this writing, we’re about to celebrate our 40th wedding anniversary. But what we’re really grateful to God for is not the length of our marital relationship but its quality. We’re convinced that walking through life together these past forty years has made us both better people. Since this is what we believe God had in mind when he gave the institution of marriage to humankind in the first place, we’d like to think of our marriage as a successful one. Thus, we feel qualified to speak to other couples about how to cultivate a truly healthy marriage. Indeed, we even wrote a book about it!1

The Importance of One’s Marital Paradigm

For several reasons, this marital paradigm

apparently chosen to wed someone who is

should be viewed as hugely problematic.

incapable or unwilling to do their part. There

Doesn’t it imply that we can’t possibly be

must be a better option; perhaps I should look

happy apart from marriage; that we’re not

for someone else.”

Another theme we emphasize when speaking

half;” that once we’ve found our soul mate,

on the topic of marriage is how important it is to approach it with the right perspective in place. Paradigms matter! How we understand the nature of a topic or task will determine our approach to it and success at it.

whole persons until we’ve found our “other wholeness is the guaranteed result? Also, what does this say about the single person who never marries? Surely those of us who view the institution of marriage as a gift from

Toward a More Biblical Marital Paradigm

God don’t mean to suggest that single folks

It’s our contention that we Christians must

The problem is that the way many Christian

can’t experience the kind of companionship

stop thinking that marriage is primarily

couples think about marriage has been

necessary to become authentic human beings.

about two halves coming together to make a

influenced more by fairy tales and popular

Yet, how many times have we heard even

whole, or that somehow our marital partners

movies than by the Scriptures. Think about the

Christians use the term “better half” to

are responsible to complete us. The truth is

much used phrase: “And they lived happily ever

describe a husband or wife?

that God’s plan for marriage requires each

after,” or the famous line: “You complete me.”

What’s more, the expectation that our spouse

These seemingly innocent ideas derived from literature and pop culture seem to exercise an amazingly strong influence on the average person’s conception of the nature of the marital relationship. It seems to be widely accepted that the goal of marriage is to find a partner that will make us happy or “complete” us.

is somehow responsible to complete us can actually set us up for marriage failure. What happens when our spouse fails to complete us? Or what if our spouse refuses to complete us? What often follows this line of thinking is, “Maybe I picked the wrong partner. I’ve

partner to experience individual wholeness via a lifetime of being committed one hundred percent to the wholeness of the other.

Moreover, the most loving, nurturing thing we can do for our marital partners is to take responsibility for our own mental and spiritual maturity, rather than waiting for someone else to effect it for us. What this means is that if we

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“The truth is that God’s plan for marriage requires each partner to experience individual wholeness via a lifetime of being committed one hundred percent to the wholeness of the other.“ want to be truly committed to God’s design for marriage,

• be dedicated to the truth—to acknowledge

we should stop wasting our time trying to fix, control,

what’s really going on instead of sticking our heads in

or blame our mate, recognizing instead the need to take

the sand; and

responsibility for our own growth and maturity as a way of nurturing the growth and maturity of our marital partner. This is how, in the context of marriage, we obey Christ’s call to love our neighbor as ourselves (Mt. 22:39).

• maintain balance—to strenuously avoid the innate tendency we humans possess to overreact and overcorrect.

Peck argued quite convincingly that these four life

Toward a Healthier Marriage Our 30-plus years of pastoral experience have led Patti and me to conclude that there are a handful of “big issues” that cause most couples to seek marital counseling.

These issues have to do with: problems in communication, confusion regarding the division of responsibilities, stress

disciplines are crucial earmarks of, and pathways toward, the ongoing mental and spiritual health of individuals.

Finding biblical support for each of these life disciplines, Patti and I tend to agree with this suggestion. Moreover, over the years we’ve observed a connection between the presence or absence of these four life disciplines and the ability of married couples to either conquer or be conquered by the five big issues.

over finances, problematic relationships with in-laws, and

This observation has been critical to our counseling

the lack of a satisfying sex life. We’ve found that most of

ministry. The wonderful irony is that the four life

the couples we’ve counseled over the years have come to

disciplines referred to above can enable us, as individuals

us with problems that can be traced to one or more of

and couples, to deal with the inevitable problems of life in

these categories of conflict.

such a way as to allow them to function for us as vehicles

Furthermore, we’ve discovered that tremendous progress can be made toward creating a truly healthy (and longlasting) marriage when the four “life disciplines” presented

by M. Scott Peck in his best-selling book The Road Less Traveled are brought to bear upon these five big issues.

These four life disciplines, crucial to solving the many problems that life throws at us, call for us to: • delay gratification—to say no to immediate pleasure in order to deal with problems as they arise; • assume responsibility—to personally own our problems rather than wait for someone else to solve them for us;

of growth! That’s just like our God, isn’t it—to put problems in our path in order to grow us through them (see Pr. 17:3; Jas. 1:2-4)? A sincere engagement in the four life disciplines will not only negate the marriage-crippling potential of the five big issues; it will also serve to promote each partner’s mental and spiritual health. That’s a transformational marriage—a lifelong relationship that makes us better people. But, here’s the key: no one can practice the life disciplines for us. Husbands and wives need to stop expecting their mates to complete them or make them happy. The key to a healthier marriage is a commitment on your part to become a healthier you. So, what are you waiting for?

Some of the contents of this brief article is adapted from the introduction to Beyond the Bliss: Discovering Your Uniqueness in Marriage (IVP Books, 2010).

1

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LIFE AS A TESTAMENT When Christopher Michael Kupitz ’14 returned to the United States from his first deployment to Iraq, the Army veteran wanted to see his sister before anything else. Christopher’s parents picked him up from the airport and drove him to the shopping mall where his sister worked so that Christopher could visit her right away. As he approached the entrance to the mall, however, the automatic doors opened, and a wave of cool air saturated with food-court smells carried with it the unmistakable sights and sounds of comfort, safety, luxury, excess—all things that he had been denied while immersed in warfare on the dusty streets and alleys of Iraq.

Christopher found himself physically unable to walk through the doors of the mall, and it was that moment when he realized for the first time how fundamentally changed he was by his experiences on his deployment. His story, as a sergeant in the Army and thereafter as a civilian, is one of unique brokenness and unique healing, authored by God and augmented by Vanguard University, its faculty, and its Veterans Resource Center.

Christopher had originally enlisted in the Army at the age of 23 after a long period of prayerful consideration, and felt both anticipation and peace about the decision to serve and protect his country, particularly after the events of September 11th. Prior to that, he had enrolled in college, but dropped out.

Joining the military gave his life a direction it had lacked.

He was first deployed to Samarra, Iraq as a civil affairs sergeant, overseeing $750 million worth of reconstruction and rebuilding projects. His primary objective consisted of creating relationships with local leaders and contractors and helping them restore and improve their city. Unfortunately, Samarra was a place that rivaled the notorious Fallujah in its instability.

Christopher’s unit was often engaged in fierce combat.

Sometimes they were ambushed, and sometimes they were called to support other combat units. Christopher believed in his mission, and he believed in the good work he was doing to help the citizens of Iraq, but his service took on a hard edge.

The people he was duty-bound to help rebuild began to seem indistinguishable from those who were attacking him and his unit. “It was difficult because it was an undefined enemy,” he recalls. “I was reaching out to and trying to love kids and their families, while staying aware of the fact that I could be in danger around them as well. I just knew that the better I did my job, the sooner I could get home.”

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And when Christopher returned home, he

Each night he drank large amounts of alcohol or

anywhere as a civilian. His Bronze Star Medal and

experienced the shock of trying to enter that

nighttime cough syrup simply to be able to sleep.

experience with managing enormous projects and

shopping mall. He knew that he needed help to process the effects of his deployment, but he did what many returning soldiers do, out of desperation and lack of resources: he refused to acknowledge it, shutting it out of his life and mind. This tactic seemed sustainable to him only because he planned never to go back to Iraq.

Then Christopher received the news that his friend’s third suicide attempt had been successful. “That broke me,” he says. “I struggled with my faith

scores of people evidently didn’t qualify him for anything. “I couldn’t even get a job at McDonald’s,” he says. “And I tried.”

and coped by working more and drinking more.”

Believing his only option after 8 years of service was

His thoughts turned dark and helpless. On two

to re-enlist or go back to college, Christopher decided

occasions he held a loaded weapon in his hand with

to use the G.I. Bill to finish his college education,

the intention of using it on himself, yet his sense of

as it would provide the funds for him to attend a

But one year and a half later, Christopher found

obligation to the work he was doing and his desire

state university for free. He was all set to go when a

out that he was being deployed again. Then the toll

not to hurt his mother and little sister by taking his

friend told him to check out Vanguard University. He

of his first deployment truly came to bear. “When I

own life gave him just enough to keep living. “If

followed up to be polite, and even though he loved

found out I was going to Iraq again, I had my first

I hadn’t loved my job, I would have killed myself,”

everything Vanguard had to offer, he was certain that

panic attack,” says Christopher. “All I could think

he says.

the G.I. Bill wouldn’t cover the tuition of a private

was, ‘You’ll die if you go back.’” Adding to his fear and confusion was the fact that shortly thereafter, his closest friend in Iraq attempted suicide. “He was a shell of his former self,” recalls Christopher. “He was my best friend. He was the one guy who had every experience I had. It destroyed me inside. My response was to make isolation an even bigger part

Christopher survived his second deployment and served the remaining two years of his military commitment stateside. By this time he was driven by a unique and relentless internal conflict, common to many returning veterans: he had conducted his work in the military with pride and skill, yet the

Christian university. That’s when he discovered that Vanguard participates in the Yellow Ribbon program, which is a means by which institutions of higher learning are able to elect to provide additional funds to veterans. Christopher would be able to attend Vanguard University at no cost.

repercussions of that work were destroying him.

“I was so excited,” he says. “In addition to being

Added to that was another characteristic common to

a Christian school located in Southern California,

On his second deployment, Christopher was

returning veterans. “To say ‘I need help’ is not built

Vanguard had the two things I wanted more than

stationed at the relatively secure Camp Victory in

into the culture,” says Christopher. “It’s a merit-

anything: a great psychology program, and a

Bagdad, but the physical danger was replaced by a

based system in which independence and strength

Veterans Resource Center that I could get involved

certain type of mental danger: his fear, anger, and

are rewarded. You don’t ask for help, because that’s

with at the ground level. I told my father that I

pain were becoming too much for him to shut out.

a sign of weakness.”

hadn’t been this excited for anything since I was

of who I was.”

Each day he worked on high-level reconstruction projects, briefing commanders and generals on progress and strategy and once again he was responsible for millions of dollars worth of ventures.

Numerous people with the best intentions tried to reach out to Christopher, but they had no clue how to relate to his experiences or to facilitate his transition. It didn’t help that he couldn’t find a job

a kid at Christmas.” In fact, Christopher was so thrilled that it began to feel unfair. He began to feel like he didn’t have a right to be so excited. The death of his best friend weighed especially on him; for the first time he understood what “survivor’s guilt” was. “I confided in my dad about this,” recalls

“‘YOUR STORY MATTERS’ IS THE BEST PHRASE FOR THE RETURNING SOLDIER. YOU JUST NEED ONE PERSON WILLING TO INVEST IN YOUR FUTURE, TO CARE ABOUT WHO YOU ARE AND DISCOVER WHAT YOU WANT TO BE, AND THEN ENCOURAGE YOU TO BE THAT.”

Christopher. “And he told me, ‘Use your life as a

Veterans Resource Center Graduate

As he immersed himself in academics, chapel, and

CHRISTOPHER MICHAEL KUPITZ ’14,

testament to those not here.’”

So that’s what Christopher has done. When he enrolled at Vanguard, he was immediately welcomed by the spirit of community that enlivens the campus.

“When they asked about my story, I realized that the people here cared about who I am and who I was,” says Christopher. “‘Your story matters’ is the best phrase for the returning soldier. You just need one person willing to invest in your future, to care about who you are and discover what you want to be, and then encourage you to be that.”

the Veterans Club, Christopher’s faith was renewed

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and Vanguard became a place of healing. When

Brent Theobald ’11. “Brent is like a brother to

chaplain. He once vowed that he would never go on

he shared his story at Vanguard’s Veterans Day

me,” he says. “Brent and Vanguard are willing to

another deployment. But now he sees God’s hand in

ceremony in 2012, he was blown away by the

invest—care, comfort, money, opportunities—in me

preparing him all along. “I would always pray, ‘Use

attendance of a group of students, faculty, and

and other veterans. “The Veterans Resource Center

me Lord, send me,’” he says. “I had always fought

staff from the psychology department, who each

reaches out to veterans and shows them that it’s

against the idea that I’d become a pastor, even

met with him afterwards in order to make sure he

okay to ask for help and to receive help. It provides

though I joined the Army seeing it as a mission field,

had every tool he needed to thrive. “That’s when

an environment that returning veterans can trust,

and now I feel like God is sending me right back

Vanguard became less of an institution to me and

because the men and women who fill our VRC share

there specifically to minister to other soldiers. There

more of a family,” he says. “Their desire to see me

similar stories and can understand one another’s

is nothing in this world I haven’t gone through. God

successful, and their intentional support of my

experiences. The best person to save a veteran is

used Vanguard University to bring me out of despair

success was phenomenal.”

another veteran.”

and to thrive, and God has been preparing me all

Of course, Christopher’s most important

Now after having graduated, Christopher’s story

point of contact with the institution was the

is coming full circle. He is applying to Fuller

Veterans Resource Center, led by Marine veteran

Theological Seminary in order to become a military

along to be this man, and to do this job.”

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On June 3rd of this year, John Brock’s wife Laura Brock passed away after a short and brutal battle with the lung disease Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis. Laura was just 32 years old and the mother of two young daughters, Ava, 4 and Georgia, 2. The expense of Laura’s hospitalization, and of John’s months-long vigil through her treatment, have resulted in a considerable financial burden. In 2015, the Brock family will be the beneficiaries of Vanguard University’s annual Homecoming Run for Mercy 5K Fun Run fundraiser.

ohn Brock is a very large man, if you’re measuring by overall

Early on in their relationship, John and Laura faced a number of serious

effect—of character, of warmth, or of faith. Those who

trials, by which their growing bond was strengthened. In 2004, John had

attended Vanguard University during the years he did probably

open-chest surgery to remove a possibly cancerous tumor, and Laura stayed

remember him, whether or not they knew him. The impression

by his side night and day, comforting him through excruciating pain—and

his personality makes on the people he meets is similar to the

one particularly awkward but decisive night. “My mom had left, and Laura

impression a boulder makes when it’s dropped into a pond: it sends out

was the only one there,” John recalls. “I suddenly had to use the bathroom.

some big ripples.

I thought to myself, ‘Well, I can call a nurse, or I can see if Laura really loves

Over the years, these ripples have flowed out into a community of family

me.’ She was unfazed. That’s when I knew she wasn’t going anywhere.”

members, friends, coworkers, and Vanguard alumni, who sent back waves of support for John and Laura when she became ill in late 2013. In order to keep family and friends posted on Laura’s condition, John began a Facebook page he called “Breathing For Laura.” His daily posts to this page, which included not just Laura’s medical updates but also his thoughts about the experience, his dealings with doctors and surgeons, his struggle to maintain strength for his daughters, and pieces of his and Laura’s 11-year journey together, gained more and more followers, until they numbered over ten thousand. More than anything, those followers saw the truest and simplest fact about John and Laura: they loved each other deeply.

Theirs was a classic Vanguard love story from the early 2000’s. John ’04 first ingratiated himself with Laura (Ely ’04) by inviting himself to sit at her table in the Caf. She allowed him to crash her lunch period and they gradually began to spend time with each other. During their time apart at Christmas break, they exchanged instant messenger screen names and phone numbers in order to keep in touch. When they came back to Vanguard after Christmas, they went to a movie at Triangle Square for their first date. John fell in love with Laura’s laughter and the genuine compassion she had for others.

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Thank you for using me, a normal, rotten sinner saved by Grace to touch others’ lives. I had no idea the amount of lives our story would impact.”

JOhn Brock

They were married in 2006, and their high points—most notably the births

are blowing my mind with all the support they are giving my family. Thank

of their daughters Ava and Georgia—were accompanied by especially

you for continuing to keep me calm, upset but calm. Please help me make it

difficult low points. They lost a child to a miscarriage. John was laid off

through the next few days and months to come. Thank you for using me, a

when Georgia, their youngest, was just two weeks old. They struggled

normal, rotten sinner saved by Grace to touch others’ lives. I had no idea the

through it all by faith, trusting in the Lord to provide, and then they were

amount of lives our story would impact.”

blindsided by a health scare that threatened John’s life. What doctors had initially dismissed as a panic attack was actually Guillain-Barre Syndrome, a nervous system disorder that kept John out of work for a year recovering.

Now, even in John’s unspeakable grief, he is still able to recognize that God is using his and Laura’s story for powerful ends. Breathing for Laura, which John continues to update every day, has transformed from a progress

So when Laura was diagnosed with Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis and

report on Laura’s medical condition and procedures into a living journal

admitted to Cedars –Sinai Hospital last year, John recalls thinking to

of John’s sadness and strength. Over 10,000 people are able to draw daily

himself, “Okay, here’s one more thing that we will just have to get through.”

encouragement from John as he reminisces about the things he loved in

Outwardly, Laura had every appearance of a healthy person, yet she was

Laura, remembers the faith and grace by which she lived as a wife and

unable to use stairs or even walk without losing her breath. The disease

mother, and takes on the challenges of fatherhood without her.

attacked her lungs so ferociously that in little time her only option for treatment was a double-lung and heart transplant. Unfortunately, surgeons had to reject multiple lungs as unfit or of unsatisfactory condition for Laura, and when an offer came through that seemed well-matched, John still had to rely on the advocacy of one surgeon in particular, who had returned early from a conference and taken it upon himself to fight for the chance to perform the operation for Laura.

“It’s crazy the way Breathing for Laura is being used,” says John. “I’d give it all back for my wife, of course, but I can see how it’s touching people. I asked God to show me something out of all this, and he has. I had a friend tell me ‘I haven’t been to church in years, but because of you and the way you’re dealing with this, I’m going back.’ Well, whatever happens happens, but at least it caused that person to come back to the Lord. Another friend recently told me that watching the way Laura and I handled everything we

The lung and heart transplant was successful, but when it was over, Laura’s

went through actually saved his marriage. I want to be angry about what

new heart stopped. From that point on, doctors were unable to get her new

happened to Laura, and I often am, but maybe that’s what this is all about.”

lungs and heart to function properly on their own again, and John finally

John hopes to direct the momentum of Breathing for Laura into a project

had to make the excruciating decision to remove Laura from life support.

with lasting significance: he’d like to establish support facilities, such as

She passed away with John by her side.

private rooms, in her honor at Cedars-Sinai for families of patients who are

On that day, just as he had on every day before, John updated the Breathing

going through what Laura went through.

for Laura Facebook page with a prayer: “Dear Lord, I hope you are taking

John is always candid, in conversation and while writing on Breathing for

good care of my lady. Thank you for my friends, family and strangers that

Laura, about how he remains an imperfect vessel of God’s glory. “In spite

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John and his daughters Ava (left) and Georgia (right).

of the many messages I receive telling me how great I am, I blow it every day,” he says.

“I’m not special, and I shouldn’t be put on a pedestal. I’m just thankful. If I didn’t have my kids, I’d be toast. If I didn’t have my parents, I don’t know what I would do.”

Laura’s memorial service was held in Newport Mesa Church at Vanguard University. “It’s fitting that our story began at Vanguard, and in a way it ended at Vanguard,” says John.

Of course, it isn’t the end. Vanguard has chosen John and his family to be the race beneficiaries of the annual Run for Mercy fundraising 5K during Homecoming 2015. The proceeds raised from the event will support on-going care for the Brock family. Included in the event will be a classic car show, live music, food, and much more.

Until then, John once again has one more thing to get through. He will continue to take everything one day at a time, focusing first on being the best father he can be to Ava and Georgia. Along the way, his story will continue to serve as an inspiration to others, and as a testament to the rewards, however veiled, of faith in God. If you would like to participate in the Run for Mercy 5K during Homecoming Week 2015 to support the Brock family, contact the alumni office at vanguard.edu/alumni.

To read John’s Facebook page “Breathing for Laura” visit facebook.com/BreathingforLaura

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ON A MISSION TO HEAL Up until Eric Arnold’s junior year at Vanguard University, the biology and pre-med major was working towards the goal of attending medical school, becoming a pediatrician, and then serving overseas as a medical missionary. Now a senior, Eric has changed his mind—just a little.

Vanguard’s Summer Undergrad Research

A year ago, he applied for and was accepted into

intense than anything you might see on TV,” he says.

a highly-competitive internship at Hoag Hospital,

“And the few things I had to do, I did well, quickly,

Project. This program pairs a professor in need

and his revelatory experiences there with critical

and without emotion. I learned that I love to work

of research assistance with a Vanguard student

care have allowed him to pull his goals into sharper

under this pressure.”

in need of practical research experience.

focus. This is because through the internship Eric has gained not just an acute understanding of emergency medicine, but also an acute understanding of himself.

Eric still plans to become a medical missionary, but now he’ll serve in the field of emergency medicine.

“I want to go to countries that lack access to health

Eric is a “clinical care extender” at Hoag Hospital,

care, wherever the need seems greatest,” says Eric.

working as a volunteer to provide basic patient care

He is certainly aware of the need, having lived

assistance. He supports medical staff with tasks such

overseas for most of his life with his missionary

as transporting, bathing, and feeding patients. In

parents. When he came to Vanguard, he found a

the strictest of terms, his duties are of lower priority

university that took seriously its mission to apply the

than those of the doctors and nurses, but Eric is not

highest academic resources to solving problems

a wallflower. Since he works in the ER and ICU, he must be prepared to respond quickly and decisively to any need that arises, in situations of high stress.

He recalls one such event with a measure of

“Dr. Fung was studying how steroid hormones affect brain development in fruit flies,” says Eric.

“I was responsible for reading about the subject, and being prepared to give suggestions about resources and support. This summer gave me experience in how research forms the basis of scientific knowledge. It was a hands-on application of knowledge, and I felt like I was doing something that matters.”

“I want to go to countries that lack access to health care, wherever the need seems greatest.”

Eric Arnold

sadness. A patient on the sub-ICU who had been on the road to recovery had a major setback during a relatively simple procedure. The patient’s heart stopped, and for fifteen minutes doctors did everything they could to stabilize the patient’s condition, with Eric assisting as needed. Despite the desperate efforts of the medical staff, however, the patient did not survive.

This devastating experience gave Eric a profound affirmation of how precious life is, and how demanding it is to be the person attempting to preserve it. His interactions with the patient’s family afterwards humbled him as well, reminding him of his responsibility as a healthcare provider to treat humans with courtesy and dignity. The experience also affirmed the feelings Eric had about a new direction in his career. “The pressure was more

around the world. His professors have combined

Eric was also awarded the Presidential Scholarship

uncompromising standards of scholarship with a

by Vanguard, which is the highest level of assistance

desire to invest personally in him. “At Vanguard,

the University offers. Eric was deeply honored by

relationships are central to so many things,” he says.

the financial aid, as it made his attendance at

“The professors are passionate, and they love what

Vanguard possible, but he remembers how his father,

they do.”

Steve Arnold ’90, really wanted to make sure

Life as a biology and pre-med major isn’t easy, but he sees the interest of his professors as one of the keys to his success. “Dr. Siaumin Fung’s cellular biology class is one of the most difficult I’ve taken,” says Eric. “But she’s made it clear that

that Eric understood the significance of Vanguard’s investment. “He told me how special it was that Vanguard was giving me this amount of money, and how important it was that I do well, and represent the school well,” says Eric.

she’s challenging us in order to prepare us—and

It’s clear that Eric sees Vanguard’s investment in

she’s taken a personal interest in me as a student.”

him as a debt to be repaid in service to a hurting

Dr. Fung’s personal interest in Eric extended to this

world—an attitude that indicates he’s representing

last summer, when she chose Eric to participate in

Vanguard well, just as he promised his father.

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The WONDERFUL MACHINE Dr. Terry Zeigler has been at Vanguard University for over twenty years and has served in various roles in the Athletic Training Education Program and Kinesiology Departments. Her passion is in the field of athletic training and mentoring students who are working towards a career as a health care professional. She is also the coordinator of the Student Health Center.

Talk a little about the Student Health Center at Vanguard.

I am so excited about it! This is the third year

Why is it so important for Vanguard to have a Student Health Center?

Vanguard has had the Student Health Center.

The healthier the students at Vanguard

It’s something I’ve been working to create at

University are, the better they can go out

Vanguard for a long time; it’s my baby. We

and do God’s work. This administration

operate under the umbrella of Student Life, which

understands how important it is to give

makes sense, because we serve the students.

resources to serve the health and wellness of

What are some of the ways that the Health Center serves the students?

First of all, through the Health Center, students have unlimited access to the best care. We provide convenience care (think “Minute Clinic”) and urgent care for illnesses and injuries. This year I’m really excited about the fact that we were able to hire a nurse practitioner. She can diagnose and treat medical health conditions as well as write prescriptions when needed.

I even have an emergency response vehicle. [Dr. Zeigler points to a Segway scooter standing just outside the door to the Health Center.] My “seggy” is my on-campus emergency response vehicle and contains both an emergency medical kit and an AED. When I get a call, I race out on my Segway to answer it!

these kids. The parents like it as well! They know their kids are getting cared for.

The Health Center also provides an opportunity for our pre-health science students to get excellent hands-on experience in the medical field. The Center employs prehealth science majors, who are pursuing careers in the medical field as physicians, occupational therapists, physical therapists, physician’s assistants, nurse practitioners, registered nurses, chiropractors, and of course, athletic trainers.

“You can serve God better when you take care of your body.”

Talk a little bit about how, in your opinion, health and wellness connect to faith.

Well, we have so many wonderful classes here

DR. TERRY A. ZEIGLER EDD, ATC, is a professor in the kinesiology department and the coordinator of Vanguard’s Student Health Center.

that expand the mind, but we only have one shot to teach the kids about the body God gave them. It’s so important for them to know how to care for it so they can fulfill their mission in life, what God has called them to do. You can serve God better when you take care of your body. We forget that because we so often focus on serving others here!

Our bodies are wonderful machines. The intricacies of the human body are amazing. I have a friend who says, “God’s given you the potential for your body to perform like a Ferrari—how are you caring for it? Are you caring for it like it’s a VW Bug?”

As a professor, the director of the Health Center, and a mother, you are a very busy person! How do you recommend people stay healthy and fit with so many obligations in their lives?

Eat less, move more, and have fun! Incorporate exercise as often as possible into your daily routine. Don’t wait until the end of the day to do it, when you’re too tired. You don’t even have to go to the gym. Move as much as you can during the day. Park far away, take the stairs. Don’t be a slug. God didn’t make us to be slugs!

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HEALING THERAPY For a long time, Katie Kremer ’09 thought she would be an athletic trainer—it was her favorite option for a career in the health sciences. One of the reasons she chose to attend Vanguard University was because of its excellent kinesiology department.

She was in good hands with kinesiology professors Dr. Terry Zeigler and Dr. Diana Avans, who run the program at Vanguard. “Dr. Zeigler was phenomenal,” says Katie. “She was so encouraging, and she had a driving passion for health and wellness.”

Then when Katie’s mother underwent a knee-replacement surgery, she required extensive physical therapy in order to regain mobility, and Katie was responsible for taking her mother to those sessions. Katie had a front-row seat to her mother’s physical improvement and the mental rejuvenation that came with it. “Right after the surgery, she was in a lot of pain, with limited functionality. Going to physical therapy with her, I saw the progression of her treatments, how she went from being barely able to go up stairs to walking and riding her bike.”

“It’s the greatest feeling knowing that with my persistence and knowledge, I have something to do with helping someone walk again.”

Katie Kremer ’09, Physical Therapist

Katie realized that helping people in the way that the physical therapist had helped her mother was exactly what she wanted to do. “Vanguard has a pre-physical therapy program that offered me all the classes I needed to apply for graduate schools,” says Katie. While at Vanguard she had an opportunity to shadow a working physical therapist who helped people recovering from strokes. This experience reinforced her new direction. “I saw how these amazing exercises could bring people back from strokes and be healthy again.”

Katie’s new direction took her to the prestigious Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn. where she earned a doctorate in Physical Therapy. She is now employed by Abbott Northwest Hospital in Minneapolis as a physical therapist in the Acute Care Center. She works in a multidisciplinary network of doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to assist patients in the recovery of their physical mobility following illness or surgery. “I help them strengthen their balance, and use tasks, exercises, and activities to help them resume normal function.”

“It’s the greatest feeling knowing that with my persistence and knowledge, I have something to do with helping someone walk again,” says Katie. “When I was first figuring out what I wanted to do in high school, I knew that I wanted to serve Christ, but I thought it might be as a missionary or pastor. I always had a passion to help others, and when I saw how physical therapy helped my mother, it was a like a light turned on. God was telling me, ‘You have a gift of compassion, tenderness, and

The job has met and exceeded all of Katie’s expectations. Through the challenges she faces with

kindness to help people during their worst time.’ It’s been a long

each new patient, Katie learns something new every day. One of her favorite aspects of the work

journey, and a huge life commitment, of time and money, to get

is the privilege of time with and proximity to her patients; she knows that many doctors are

through the program. But this is what God has called me to do. I

simply unable to give the energy required to develop a one-on-one relationship with patients.

am being used by God to touch people.” vanguard magazine FALL/WINTER 2014

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sports

TRAINING HEALTHY ATHLETES When a student-athlete at Vanguard University is injured on the field of play during a game or in practice, he or she receives more than just the medical ministrations of head athletic trainer Darin Voigt and his staff. “We can pray with them,” says Darin. “We are able to come alongside them, treat the physical injury, but also say:

possibility of professional development, and was not interested in spiritual development. He was transformed by the example set by Darin and the rest of the training staff. “Vanguard changed him,” says Darin. “He had no idea what he was coming to, and now he is a great, deeply spiritual guy who is using his skills for the Lord. I watched the growth and the change happen in him, and I even got to

‘I know you’re in pain. I’m going to pray for you.’ It

see him baptized. He is someone who I can look

settles them down and it calms them, and it gives me

back on and know that I influenced because of the

chills to know that I can do that.”

way we do things here. Something brought him to Vanguard and it changed his life forever.”

This seamless blend of advanced therapeutic

prepare them for practices and games. Midday,

Because the athletic department operates under

care and genuine spiritual investment is what sets

we go out and attend the practices or games in

those five core values, Darin knows he is at liberty

Vanguard University’s athletic training department

case we are needed, and by the end of the day,

to invest in a student’s life, and that his investment

apart from a typical university program, and it’s

our job is to get the student-athlete to feel better:

will be rewarding for both him and the student.

one of the aspects that drew Darin to Vanguard.

by icing injuries, applying support bracing, and

“I recall one young lady who was from another

“I wanted to be a part of a college that is

utilizing electrical stimulation and compression

country,” he says. “She knew Christ, but she was

Christ-centered, and involved in the spiritual

units.” In other words, Vanguard University’s

encountering barriers with language and culture.

development of the student-athletes,” he says.

commitment of resources to the physical health of

She wanted to learn everything, and she poured

According to Darin, it all comes back to the

the student-athlete mirrors its commitment to his or

her whole heart into it. She struggled so much,

example of leadership set by athletic director Bob

her spiritual health.

but every year she came back, and I was able to

Wilson. “We all follow the five core values that Bob has established for the department: respect, responsibility, servant leadership, integrity, and sportsmanship. We are committed to athletic and academic excellence, and these are things that I hold strongly in my heart.”

Darin’s favorite part of the job is the opportunity to serve and lead the tremendous students at Vanguard. “The coaches recruit fabulous studentathletes, who are humble and do not have an attitude of entitlement that you encounter elsewhere.

match her perseverance with mentorship, going above and beyond to help her understand. Now she’s a professional in the field. To see her growth is so rewarding.”

More than anything, empathy is at the heart of

The coaches know that these student-athletes have a

what Darin does. He wants his athletic training

Darin relishes the opportunity to set a strong

life after college athletics, and their biggest priority

staff – and himself—to display a compassion for

example daily through the care he provides, which

is building Christ-centered relationships.” Darin

the student-athletes that they’re caring for which is

extends across a broad range of responsibilities.

recognizes that not every student who comes to

based on understanding what the student-athlete is

“Each day is different, and I love the variety,” he

Vanguard sees the necessity of a Christ-centered

going through, particularly when injured. “I want

says. “At the beginning of the day, I’m in the clinic,

life, which is why he believes so strongly in the

the athlete to know that they can get through it,” he

preparing the athletic training room for student-

power of the athletic department’s five core values.

says. “And I will see them get through it.”

athletes, where I interview them about injuries

He recalls one student who, at the beginning

and implement rehabilitation programs, as well as

of his time at Vanguard, only cared about the

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“We are able to come alongside them, treat the physical injury, but also say: ‘I know you’re in pain. I’m going to pray for you.’

It settles them down and it calms them...”

DARIN VOIGT, Head Athletic Trainer

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beyond community:

A SUCCESSFUL CAMPAIGN CURT CARSON and GARY GRAY, Co-Chairs of THROUGH THESE DOORS

Curt Carson has a simple formula for philanthropy: “Give whatever you can,” he says, “of your time, talent, and treasure.”

Over the years, he and fellow Orange County businessman Gary Gray have given to Vanguard plenty of all three. Both men are members of the Vanguard University Foundation Board of Directors, which is a group of community volunteers who collaborate in order to cultivate gifts to the University that support its mission, and who grow and manage Vanguard’s endowment.

They are also co-chairs of the Through These Doors capital campaign to raise

Curt and Gary were inspired to support Vanguard University as Foundation

funds for the expansion and renovation of the Scott Academic Center. Both Curt

Board members and donors because of their belief in the importance of higher

Carson and Gary Gray believe that one of the most valuable ways to give back

education which seeks to honor and explore faith in Christ. “When I look at

to their community is by helping to further Vanguard University’s mission to

the country and the world,” Curt says, “it’s clear to me that now more than

deliver a rigorous, Christ-centered education to young people.

ever that we need students with a Christian background. We need students

The two businessmen have deep local ties to Orange County. A retired banker, Curt served as the Senior Vice President and Managing Director of the Private

with morals, character, initiative, a spiritual foundation, and the desire to make a difference.” As a graduate of Grove City College in Grove City, Penn., Curt himself benefitted from the foundation that a

“We want to make every part of the experience of a Christian education memorable for students, including the campus. With the Scott Academic Center renovation and expansion, we’re bringing Vanguard’s facilities equal to the competition’s.

If we want to be a sustainable, viable institution going forward, these upgrades are essential.”

Curt Carson

Christian liberal arts education provides. “There’s no question that there’s a difference in the students who graduate from a school like Vanguard, with the exposure to spiritual instruction, small class sizes, and professors who are interested in them while here and afterwards. You don’t get that to the same degree at public and state schools.”

Curt and Gary contributed a great deal of their professional expertise to Vanguard in their roles as co-chairs of the Through These Doors capital campaign. When they began the campaign, Curt and Gary were essentially starting at zero, and by this October, when Vanguard broke ground on the project, they had helped raise nearly $7 million. Curt

Bank for Southern California for Union Bank of California. His career allowed

is adamant about the importance of Through These Doors for Vanguard’s future.

him to pursue professional goals in line with his generous nature. “I chose

“We’re in a very competitive environment for higher education,” he says. “We

banking because I wanted to help people,” he says. “I wanted to guide them

want to make every part of the experience of a Christian education memorable

in their personal financial decisions so that they would be responsible and

for students, including the campus. With the Scott Academic Center renovation

successful.” Gary Gray founded Orange Coast AMC/Jeep 33 years ago a few

and expansion, we’re bringing Vanguard’s facilities equal to the competition’s.

miles from Vanguard in Costa Mesa. As his business grew and expanded into

If we want to be a sustainable, viable institution going forward, these upgrades

what would eventually become Talon Automotive Group, Gary was always

are essential.”

looking for ways to reinvest in the Orange County community. When Vanguard instituted the Foundation Board of Directors, Curt and Gary were recruited to serve on the board by David Elliot, another member, former employee, and longtime supporter of the University.

Among the many improvements the project will bring, Gary Gray is excited about two in particular: “The expanded space for the Veterans Resources Center is very important,” he says. “I attended Vanguard’s Veterans Day

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Through These Doors Co-Chairs Curt Carson (left) and Gary Gray

ceremony this year, and I think the Veterans Resource Center is just amazing.

opportunity to be involved in a higher education institution that is good and

It’s a very worthwhile program, and one that I am proud to support.” Gary is

responsible for the community,” says Curt.

also enthusiastic about the physical transformation that the Scott Academic Center will undergo. “I love the tower; it’s one of my favorite parts. It’s going to increase Vanguard’s physical presence, so the campus is not such a well-kept secret anymore!”

Finding a way to give back has always been at the intersection of where Curt and Gary’s faith and their professional lives meet, and they know that their work for Vanguard University on behalf of the Foundation Board of Directors allows them to serve God by blessing the people and community around them. “The VU Foundation Board gives businesses, organizations, and people like me the

“You have to give back to the community that’s cared for you,” adds Gary.

“Vanguard is on our list because they care for students, give opportunities to students who might not have them otherwise, and most importantly, allow students to grow in faith.”

And Curt and Gary know this work pleases the Lord. “At the end of it all,” says Curt, “we’ll have two questions to answer before God: ‘Were you a good and faithful servant?’ and ‘What did you do with what you were given?’ If you are successful, it is incumbent that you give back, whatever you can, of your time, talent, and treasure.”

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Join the campaign and be a part of transforming Scott Academic Center.

Vanguard University has $170,000 left to raise in our sprint to the finish line, and we invite you to help Vanguard enter this new season of growth.

GOAL: $7,000,000

TOTAL COMMITTED: $6,829,840

$170,000 LEFT TO GO

Tuesday, December 2, 2014

@VanguardU

ALL GIFTS OF $100 OR MORE WILL BE RECOGNIZED IN A SPECIAL DISPLAY INSIDE THE SCOTT ACADEMIC CENTER.

There’s Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and now a worldwide day for giving back— Giving Tuesday!

Join us for Vanguard’s first #GIVINGTUESDAY and your generosity will bless the Through These Doors Campaign for the Scott Academic Center renovation and expansion.

EVERY GIFT MATTERS

va n g u a r d . e d u / g i v i n g t u e s d ay

IN OUR SPRINT TO THE FINISH.

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my story

FOUNDATION IN FRIENDSHIP Looking back at my 40-year

the evening, and Dr. McHargue suddenly announced,

career in medicine and public

“Sonoran-style hotdogs!” Well, we all piled into the

health, I can confidently say

van with Dr. McHargue, and sure enough, we found a place serving Sonoran-style hotdogs.

that my education at Vanguard

The memory of that trip is representative to me of what

University (which I knew as

made Vanguard great. Dr. McHargue was educating

Southern California College)

us and mentoring us, and his incredible interest in his

gave me a foundation that has contributed unequivocally to my professional success.

academic field was matched by his genuine interest in our success and happiness. And I still search out Sonoran-style hotdogs whenever I visit Tucson!

While at Vanguard, I was selected to participate in a fellowship through the Atomic Energy Commission. Dr.

And it was all due to the personal relationships I

Don Lorance, my chemistry professor, and Dr. Wayne

established with my Vanguard professors as a young,

Peterson, my math and chemistry professor, took

curious, and ambitious chemistry and biology major.

extra time to prepare me before I went, counsel me

In my current position as founding President of the

while I was there, and help me frame the experience

Patient-Centered Primary Care Collaborative and

when I came back. This extra attention allowed me

IBM’s Director of IBM Global Healthcare

to succeed at the fellowship, and it prepared me for

Transformation, I regularly give lectures, talks, and

medical school. Dr. Lorance and Dr. Peterson valued

webinars that reach approximately 2.7 million people

me as an individual—I also considered them my

a year. In every one of them, I still remember and

friends. This was definitely not the experience of most

employ the strategy I learned from Professor Dudley

of my medical school colleagues who had gone to

Boyd in my speech class at Vanguard: “Don’t make

large state universities.

a rambling opening, use short sentences or even

These relationships profoundly affected me, not just

short phrases for dramatic effect, and finish with a

academically. I had an experience in education

strong, affirmative statement.” I had a warm, caring

that medical patients want with their healer, and I’ve

relationship with my speech teacher, and when I

devoted my career to advocating for a model of

reflect on my time at Vanguard, I realize that the depth

primary care that allows for this called the Patient-

of friendships with my professors gave me experiences

Centered Medical Home. Both doctors and patients

that continue to enrich my life.

benefit from active and preventative treatment centered

Dr. Larry McHargue was my botany professor, and

on the true wellness of the individual, and diagnoses

I’ll never forget hiking across the Sonoran Desert in

arrived at through genuinely invested relationships.

search of a blooming flower that no one had seen in

In my career, I have been made a member of the

50 years. The look on his face when we found it was

Institute of Medicine, I was a recipient of National

of pure enthusiasm! He was passionate about leading

Committee for Quality Assurance Quality Award,

us to discovery. I remember one night in particular on

and I have been “sashed” by the Danish Crown,

that trip. We were sitting around the campfire late into

after having been named a Danish Healthcare

DR. PAUL GRUNDY ’74 President of the Patient-Centered Primary Care Collaborative and IBM’s Director of IBM Global Healthcare Transformation

Ambassador. These accomplishments were all made possible by the foundation in education and life I received at Vanguard University, and I am deeply grateful to those professors and mentors who invested so much in my heart and mind.

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class notes

Class Notes 1950s Don Hall ’59 and his wife Patti have recently resigned their pastorate in Northern California and have turned their focus to US Missions. After graduating from Vanguard, Don and Patti founded and directed both Southern California and Hawaii Teen Challenge. They have remained in full-time ministry for 55 years, ministering in over 60 nations. Don now serves as Correctional Chaplain for Placer County near

Rick Francis ’87 current serves as the Assistant Chief

in Tanzania for 7 years now. They have four children,

Executive Officer for the City of Costa Mesa. Rick helps

Rylee, Lil, Benjamin, Rayna, and are in the process of

solve complex social and quality of life issues in Costa

adopting Baraka Cyrus. Fellow alumni Mark ’07

Mesa. He also is the Chair of the Board of Elders

and Brittany ’06 Sherman and Brandon

at Newport Mesa Church and is working through

Stiver ’08 and his wife Melissa are also part of their

the pastoral transition with the great leaders on his

13 person Global Effect team. Some of the projects

team. He and his wife Dina just celebrated their 26th

the Helblings are currently working on include Hope

wedding anniversary with a trip to Europe. They have

International School Moshi, which is beginning its third

three grown children, Lauren ’10, Josh, and Tim. In

year, an orphan care program, a safe house for abused

his free time, he runs the Sports League at NMC and

girls, and a farming project. To learn more about their

roots on the Dodgers. He strives to become a more

ministry visit global-effect.com.

devoted follower of Christ daily.

Liz Hetzel ’99 is a storyteller. She is currently working

Sacramento, provides training for Teen Challenge and

Michael Viser ’89 founded nonprofit organization

on her first book, 50 Things I Personally Learned From

Youth With A Mission, and ministers among Inter-cultural

Wells for Life [wellsforlife.org] in 2001. The team just

Famous People. Sign up for updates on her book or

churches and ethnic pastors on the West Coast.

completed its 635th fresh water project in rural India.

read her blog at life-of-adventure.com.

1960s Joy (McElfresh ’67) and Richard Varnell ’66 are now serving as missionary associates with the Assemblies of God at Asia Pacific Theological Seminary in Baguio, Philippines. Richard is serving as Director of Advancement, and Joy is teaching. They spend three months a year at the seminary and are stateside for nine months promoting the seminary in the USA.

1970s Warren Doody ’79 has been a full-time faculty member at Vanguard University since 1999.

As Professor of English and Theater Arts, he has written a number of original plays, including several that have been produced on the Lyceum stage. This year, his play, “Life Without Parole,” a work that was inspired by the research of Dr. Elizabeth Leonard, has received a pair of New York productions, both of which were co-produced by VU alum Karah Gravatt ’11.

1980s Cahleen Shrier ’83 has been a professor of Biology at Azuza Pacific University for 20 years.

In addition to water, Wells for Life launched its first

David and Laura

Mobile Medical Unit which will provide basic medical

(Hatcher ’94) Trotter

care and medicines to the rural poor in Southern

’94 have been married

Gujarat, a northwest Indian state. Michael continues to

over 20 years and live in

carry out his work in India on a volunteer basis and is a

Costa Mesa with their two

stay-at-home dad to Amanda, who is 13, and Nathan, who is 10.

1990s Jaimie (West ’02) and Martin Bowman ’99 just celebrated 15 years of marriage and have two boys, Micah, 9 and Jaden, 7. Martin has been an associate pastor at Nova Community Church in Torrance for 12 years. Jaimie is a speaker and blogger, and

children, Waverly, 15 and Emerson, 11. Laura is a tenured kindergarten teacher in the Los Alamitos Unified School District, and David is an entrepreneur and filmmaker with two recent documentaries - “Mother India: Life Through the Eyes of the Orphan” (Amazon, Netflix) and “In Plain Sight: Stories of Freedom & Hope” (in stores nationwide December 23).

just released her first book, Breathe: 31 Moments with

Kimberly Ulm ’99, MA ’06 was the coordinator

God {for Moms}.

of Global Outreach at Vanguard until July of 2013. She

Josh Harrison ’99 and his wife Heather have

Compassion International. Kim resides in the Denver area.

been married for 15 years and have two daughters, Bizunesh “Buzé” and Marta. Josh is the teaching pastor at ROCKHARBOR Costa Mesa, and Heather is the middle school principal at Mariners Christian School.

They live, work, eat, play, and spend most of their time

now leads sponsor tours and short term mission trips for

2000s Joanna (Bogosian ’07) and Andre ’11

in Costa Mesa.

Abrantes have been

Ryan ’96, MTS ’10 and Stacy (Hembree

2012. In the fall of 2012,

’97) Helbling, MA ’05 have been missionaries

they moved to China to

married since March 31,

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Letter from the Writer teach English at Shaanxi University of Technology in Hanzhong. They also visit a local orphanage as often as they can. This fall, they are beginning their third year

Vanguard graduate

about their adoption story, visit gofundme.com/clirw0.

and a veteran of

Amanda (Ahrenberg

Houston were married on

Magazine, Christopher himself almost became

Christopher Kupitz, a

adopting a 20-month-old boy, Joshua. To read more

Josh ’08, MA ’12

As you can read in this month’s issue of Vanguard

had the privilege of interviewing

together in China, and they are in the process of

’09, MA ’14) and

This summer I

the United States Army who served two tours of duty in Iraq. The interview was

one of those statistics. As members of military organizations that value independence as a sign of strength, many returning veterans like Christopher do not reach out for the help they need, or know how to. Many initially feel as if they don’t fit in or belong on college campuses.

At Vanguard, however, Christopher encountered the Veterans Resource Center (VRC). Since the

October 20, 2013. They

educational, to say the least.

both served on staff at

I’d like to imagine that I’m culturally well-

is able to minister to veteran-students’ strengths

informed, but until I spoke with Christopher, I did

and fears with true compassion and recognition.

not realize the seriousness of the problems that

At Vanguard, the gap between veterans and the

returning veterans face.

civilian society whom they served is bridged with

Clarity Church in Santa Monica, where Josh was an associate pastor and Amanda was a worship leader.

Josh is now the Resident Director of Huntington Hall at Vanguard University, so the couple relocated (came back home) to Costa Mesa in August. The Houstons are expecting a baby girl in January!

If you have ever thanked a military veteran for his or her service, no doubt that individual appreciated

VRC at Vanguard is itself staffed by veterans, it

programs and resources aimed squarely at those veterans’ unique needs.

the gesture. It is characteristic of veterans to

I was humbled by Christopher’s powerful story,

Meghan Reeve ’07 participated in the World

respond with humility to recognition they receive.

and by what I learned about America’s returning

Race in 2013 (a mission trip to 11 countries in 11

There’s an equal chance, however, that the veteran

veterans. It gave me deeper gratitude for the

months). She is now living in Spain teaching English to

you thanked was also desperate for more, for the

sacrifices they make on our behalf, and a new

first graders and attending G42 Leadership Academy.

simple fact that there is a full-blown crisis in the

understanding of how vital the work of Vanguard’s

Meghan feels like she’s being equipped to come

way the United States of America addresses the

Veterans Resource Center is.

home, wherever that may be, and hopes to open a

needs of its returning veterans. Young veterans,

secondhand bookstore. Follow her adventures and journeys at awindlikethis.wordpress.com.

Michael and Jessi Rigdon ’09, spent the last 6 years doing youth ministry. In 2009 they moved to Lewisburg, Penn. where they served as youth directors for two years. The couple returned to Orange County

many disabled physically or mentally by their experiences, struggle to find jobs and reintegrate into society. One statistic towers above the rest and tells the story of the problem in its entirety: veterans account for 20% of suicides in our country. Twenty-

Rene Scheys ’04

two veterans commit suicide every day.

Writer/Copy Editor

in 2010 when Mike was offered the position of high school pastor at Eastside Christian Church in Anaheim.

The Rigdons served there until June 2014. Currently, Mike is a part of the church-planting residency at

brand new study-abroad program. This program

Brandon Stiver ’08

ROCKHARBOR CHURCH Costa Mesa and is a pastor

provides an opportunity for college students from the

and wife Melissa live in

to their Sunday Night services. Jessi now works for Safe

United States to spend an entire semester abroad

Moshi, Tanzania where

Families, a non-profit in Santa Ana. Their goal is to

learning about community development, church

they oversee Kingdom

plant a church in the next 2-3 years in Orange County.

leadership, the history of Latin America, and much

Families, under the non-

more. Follow their journey at RobeckFamily.com.

profit organization Global

John Mark ’98 and Cristina Robeck MA

Alyssa (Cross ’09)

’07 and their family have

and Derek Smith ’08

led teams of Vanguard

were married in June

students on short term

2011. They make their

mission trips to El Salvador

home San Diego County.

for many years. They developed a relationship with

Derek is an assistant

ENLACE, a nonprofit that seeks to equip local churches

property manager. Alyssa is the director of operations at

and their leaders for the purpose of community

a non-profit pregnancy center and is an adjunct

transformation. In June, the Robeck Family relocated to

professor of sociology at Vanguard University.

El Salvador to be full-time program coordinators of a

Effect. Brandon and Melissa have a daughter Promise, 2, and are expecting a son in December. They are excited to be raising their children in Kilimanjaro.

Brandon and Melissa’s heart is to see orphaned and abandoned children placed in loving Christian homes in Tanzania. Kingdom Families is all about partnering with and empowering local church communities to be the answer to the orphan crisis in our midst. They love sharing stories with those back in California at thestiversintanzania.com.

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WELLS OF LIVING WATER As a former beach lifeguard, water polo player, and surfer, Kurt Dahlin ’78 MA ’92 is obsessed with water. The founder and senior pastor of Breakwater Church in Redondo Beach, Calif., Kurt’s vocational expertise is in ministry, but over the past 25 years he has also become, through ardent devotion and careful discipline, a self-educated specialist in the science of clean, renewable water for the developing world. Every year, he leads volunteers to the country of Malawi in Africa, representing the non-profit organization he founded called Water Wells for Africa (WWFA). Their mission is to share the Gospel with the people of Malawi, to set up deepwater bore holes in remote villages, and to educate the villagers about how to care for and take advantage of their new resource.

As of now, through their partnership with a Malawibased bore hole drilling company called Christian Service Committee, WWFA has built150 water wells that deliver fresh water to over 300,000 people every day. Before the installation of these wells, many villagers have to travel hours every day just to get water— usually contaminated surface water, rife with disease-causing bacteria. “The World Health Organization estimates that 5,000 kids a day die from bad water. These wells essentially abolish that danger,” says Kurt. “As an example, we installed bore holes in a village known colloquially as ‘Cholera Village.’

Well, now there’s no cholera there at all, so I guess they’ll have to come up with a new name! Our goal is for every village to have a clean, sustainable water source, eliminating waterborne disease and eliminating sickness, death, and misery. I’m extremely excited about the health benefits that clean water provides.”

Over the past ten years, however, Kurt’s passion for water has extended beyond merely providing it. Many related health benefits can be developed through the use of water combined with another resource that villagers have abundant access to: charcoal. Kurt has been experimenting with the uses of charcoal for years in his backyard, proving that homemade charcoal filters combined with the bacteria-killing properties of charcoal activated by the UV rays of the sun could sufficiently create pure, clean water—for free. He has taken these ideas and many more and published them in an easy-to-understand book he gives to villagers called Homemade Hygiene. Full of colorful iconography and step-by-step instructions, Homemade Hygiene stresses a simple set of transforming guidelines: “1) Clean water, 2) Clean hands, 3) Clean toilets.” Rudimentary facilities and a lack of education in Malawi mean that illness is easily transferred from person to person through casual contact, when it could just as easily be nearly eliminated. Homemade Hygiene explains how each of the three guidelines can be accomplished exclusively through the creative use of wood charcoal and ash.

Kurt always smiles to underscore his point; he’s been brushing his teeth with charcoal powder for years.

For Kurt, his work to promote health and wellness by bringing life-changing hygiene concepts to Africa goes hand-in-hand with well-drilling and his work to bring them the Gospel of Christ. “The Gospel is holistic,” he says. “We are physical and spiritual beings. In scripture, Jesus Christ was very concerned about the health of the poor. He didn’t just preach to them; he gave them water and food and healed their bodies.

We have at our disposal enormous resources to help people on this planet. This last year, WWFA witnessed to 10,000 people, and 10 more villages have

clean water. If we can prevent 1,000 deaths through education and by providing clean water, then we have raised up 1,000 people! And when they ask, ‘Why are you doing this?’—we show them Jesus.”

Kurt himself found Jesus after years of searching for larger meaning in life, a quest encumbered by drug addiction and aimlessness. When he arrived at Vanguard University, that same spirit of independent inquiry that fuels his backyard water filtration experiments today was complemented perfectly by the rigorous intellectual inquiry of his professors then.

“I learned the research skills I use today. I remember Gayle Erwin, David Clark, Murray Dempster, and O. Cope Budge—all of them taught me how to think, not what to think. I was allowed to disagree with them, if I could justify my position biblically. This intellectual freedom was of a great value to me.” This creative independence allowed him to rethink his view of women in the Bible, and his master’s thesis on the subject evolved into a book that he has just completed titled The Wrong Side of Eden: Why Do Christians Condemn What Christ Commends?, which is now available on Amazon.

For Kurt, advocacy in Africa doesn’t require the extensive manufacturing or logistical resources of other NGOs or charities. It is simply about giving people the water of life and educating them about the natural tools God has built into his creation to care for that life. Says Kurt simply: “Once a villager said to me, “We thought we had nothing. Now we know that God has provided for us.’”

For more information or to help support Kurt’s ministry, visit waterwellsforafrica.org.

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class notes

2010s

Johnny Giovati ’09 is

Dawn Aldeguer ’13 attended Creation Fest in Wadebridge, England this summer. Creation Fest is

She is also very active in her church community at

in Manhattan Beach. He is

Mars Hill.

also part of the pastoral

a missions outreach to share the gospel with many

Max Page 2006-2007

team at Expression 58, a

who did not know Christ during a week-long camping festival for families.

Wash. and works for Deoitte as an auditor and CPA.

a Special Education teacher

moved to Ireland with

ministry focused on

Sebastian Muller ’08

Hollywood, the entertainment industry, and social Abimelech Barrera ’10 is the worship pastor at Misión El Camino, a church plant launched by Watermark OC Church in Costa Mesa. He has

served in this position since November 2013 when the church was launched in the city of Santa Ana. Since graduating, Abimelech has collaborated with local worship leaders, among them many Vanguard Alumni, at various church events.

Toronto, Canada for a summer working with YouthWorks. She then moved to Northern California to work for Thrive Leadership School at Bayside Church. She is involved in their fifth and sixth grade ministry as well as Vertigo events for seventh and eighth graders.

Chloie Butler ’10 plans to move to Seattle, Wash. to attend graduate school. She hopes to enter the wine industry in some capacity once she completes her masters.

Becka Datillo ’13 lives in Old Towne Orange and recently started Chapman University’s International Studies Masters Program.

Josh Del ’13 graduated with his Bachelor’s in Communications. He is a fashion and lifestyle photographer and has had many professional opportunities that range from multiple features in Vogue Italia, to helping friends Desire (Bogenschutz ’12) Falk and Jolene Angel ’12 start their online magazine, Darling, Be Daring. He is also excited to work with a record label to take promotional photos of their artists. Josh is engaged to Courtney Hutton ’12 who is entering a Ph.D program in Cultural Anthropology at UCSD. They plan to marry next year in Colorado.

church and share the

The Justice Group, a non-profit working with human trafficking, orphan care, and development in active

gospel with the community.

conflict zones around the world [justiceisbeautiful.org.]

Upon returning to the States, Max got a job as the

Mackenna Hampton ’12 moved to Los Angeles

engaged to Amanda Pineda ’11 and plans to be

after graduation to start her career in the entertainment

married in April 2015.

industry. She worked at a talent management company that handles 30+ calendars for a variety of actors.

She then moved on to become an assistant at a visual effects company, where she specialized in special effects for commercials. Currently, she is the personal

Erica Bizzell ’14 lived in

so that they could build a

justice. Johnny also serves as social media director for

assistant to the co-founder of Roll Global, which is the parent company to successful brands like FIJI Water,

writing director for a creative video agency. He is

Carly (Williams ’10) and Billy Pruden (2010-2012) married on July 28, 2012. They currently co-own three wedding related companies, Carly Rae Weddings, (wedding planning and design) Primary Petals (boutique floral design) and Fourth Films (cinematography) and are highly sought after in

POM Wonderful, Wonderful Pistachios, and Teleflora.

their industry [carlyraedesign.com.] They are featured

Paul Harkins ’11 worked as the production

world. They reside in Long Beach.

associate for the Orange County Rescue Mission. He is also on the Video Team at ROCKHARBOR Church and will travel to South Africa this year as part of creative

regularly on wedding blogs and magazines across the

Landon and Sarai (Artzer) Pluimer ’11

missions team focused on storytelling.

tied the knot in Coto De

Brynne Harned ’12 has been a preschool teacher

2012. Sarai worked as a

at Crossroads Christian School and recently graduated

Caza, Calif. in July of nanny and private

from the University of Southern California and received

homeschool teacher before returning to Vanguard to

a Master’s in Social Work. After graduation, she

pursue a Multiple Subject teaching credential. With one

traveled across Europe. Brynne now works as a

semester left in the program she is happy to be pursuing

medical social worker at Kaiser Permanente in Fontana

something that she loves. Landon is an Analyst for IPC

and Ontario.

USA, a petroleum company in Irvine. Ever since being Jesse Hawkins ’11 lives in Irvine and is the director of student ministries at Geneva Presbyterian

a part of the Vanguard basketball team for 4 years, Landon plays in various leagues across Orange County as much as possible. The two recently moved to San Clemente and are enjoying the small beach community.

Church in Laguna Hills. He

Rebekah Ramirez ’14

is in a band with Jenny

moved to Park City, Utah to

Payne ’11 called In The Wilderness. The duo will

start a new job working as

release an EP in December. Keep up with the band by

the spa receptionist for

visiting facebook.com/inthewildernessband.

Remede Spa at the St. Regis

Brennan LaMar ’11 worked at Teen Challenge in Kern before becoming the associate and worship pastor at Discovery Church. Brennan is engaged to Christina Hall and they will be married next summer.

Heather McGuire ’12 earned an MBA at George Fox University in Oregon. She now lives in Seattle,

Deer Valley.

Michael Rea ’13 relocated to San Diego to pursue a career in law enforcement with the San Diego Police Department.

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Tiffany Redwing ’10, MA ’14 moved to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil upon graduating with her Bachelor’s in Liberal Studies.

In 2014 she graduated from Vanguard University’s online Masters in Education program. She currently teaches preschool, is the yearbook advisor at Horizon Christian High school, and is building her photography business in the Portland Metro area.

Alina (Ortiz ’11) Ringer and husband Matthew married on December 7, 2013. They now live in

RISE AND WALK Most students arrive at Vanguard University as fresh-faced 18-year-olds full of potential and ambition, but Denise (McNutt ’81) Heinrichs has those kids beat by about 18 years. As the daughter of former Vanguard professors and alumni Dennis ’59 and the late Charlotte McNutt ’70, she arrived at Vanguard practically as a newborn, spending much of her young life on campus even before she was a student. “Vanguard is definitely part of who I am,” Denise says. “I grew up here, riding my bike and my roller skates around the campus. I even learned to drive in the parking lot! I wouldn’t have considered going to college anywhere else.”

It wasn’t only proximity that drew Denise to Vanguard; she recognized that her parents were among many excellent professors who devoted themselves to mentorship. “The teacher-student relationships, and the size of the classes couldn’t be beat. The professors want to help you learn,” she says. One such professor was former Vanguard music director Noel Wilson, who mentored her and her future husband Frank (’82). Including their children—son Daniel, their daughter Denée (Heinrichs) Marx ’05, and their other daughter Diann Heinrichs, who will begin the RN to BSN program this January— Denise and Frank’s connections to the University span four generations. Grandparents, siblings, in-laws, sons, daughters, nieces, and nephews all experienced the warmth and community that Denise has felt since she was an infant.

Denise is now a Nurse Practitioner and a COPE Certified Health Coach. She uses her medical expertise to teach her clients about how to achieve optimal health. “I help people lose or gain weight, manage diabetes, hopefully reduce their medications, and positively change their lifestyle. I guide them to health in body, mind, and finances.

This is my purpose. This is my mission field.”

Nipomo, Calif. Alina is the chief business development officer with Ortiz Beverage Company and is also a tax Anyone who encountered Denise two years ago, however, wouldn’t have imagined her pursuing this active career so passionately, and they certainly wouldn’t recognize her. She was over 100 pounds heavier, taking 22 medications a day, and confined to an electric wheelchair as an “incomplete quadriplegic.” Surgery to remove cancer in her spinal cord had left her paralyzed, bed-bound, and completely dependent on others for all but the most basic tasks for over 13 years. “I had adapted to life in the wheelchair,” she says. “I was suffering, but I trusted God that he had a plan to use me for more.”

& financial consultant.

Even though doctors predicted that she would never walk again, Denise began to experience a miraculous awakening in her body. Every day, she seemed to have a little more movement in her legs, eventually ditching the wheelchair for a walker, and then replacing the walker with a cane. As Denise began to reclaim movement, she also began to reclaim her health. She weaned herself quickly off her medications, focused on great nutrition, and lost the weight that had been holding her back. Now Denise sees her 13 years in a wheelchair as a vital, God-given ingredient to her work with helping guide others to good health.

Physical Therapy program. Keith currently works at

“If I hadn’t been through that hell,” says Denise. “I wouldn’t be who I am. I was raised in a loving, Christian home, but that experience gave me true empathy. I can listen to my clients, understand them, and I can relate to them.”

Denise holds monthly events at Vanguard called “Discovering Optimum Health,” and she is always praying that the Lord would lead her to new people who are striving for wellness. “I am so blessed to be able to help people,” she says. “I am a shining light for nutrition and health! And if you are struggling with your health, and you’ve tried everything, contact me!

Our program works.”

Alex Snow ’13 is a teacher and missionary in Malawai. He plans to relocate to China to start a ministry.

Keith and Brittney (Riley) Tanaka ’10 were married December 14, 2013 in Fallbrook, Calif. at the Grand Tradition Estate. Brittney is in final year of Chapman University’s Doctorate of Western Municipal Water District.

FUTURE ALUMNI Brian Carmona ’11 and wife Brittanie welcomed their daughter Madison Rae into the world in 2013. The Carmonas live in Nashville, Tenn. where Brian is a marketing associate and a musical producer and songwriter.

Chelsea (Richardson ’10) and Joel Danei ’09 were married on July 31, 2010. Chelsea ministered at St. Peter’s Presbyterian Church in Huntington Beach as the college ministries leader before they relocated to Albany, New York. The couple is very involved at Victory Christian Church - serving on the worship team, leading the young adult group, and hosting a home group at their house. Joel works at a local emergency homeless shelter while Chelsea stays at home with their son Elisha Joel, 1. The Daneis are expecting another child in March 2015.

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Amy (Kappauf ’11) and Chad Dusatko ’12 were married in 2013. On March 14, 2014 they welcomed their son Grey into the world. Chad is the high school ministry pastor at Mission Hills Church in Mission Viejo and Amy stays at home with Grey.

Jeff Fazakerley ’07 and his wife Emily had their second daughter, Margot Mikkele Fazakerley, on May 10, 2014. Jeff is a part-time theatre professor at Concordia University Irvine and works full-time at Brandman University’s Center for Instructional Innovation.

He was recently promoted to Head of Instructional

THRIVING IN GOD’S DESIGN It is not uncommon for students at

God’s original design in how we were made to live

Vanguard University to have life-

in harmony with the animals and the planet. Aiming

changing encounters while serving

to live in the way God designed us to thrive can

on missions trips overseas, and Ellen

only be a good thing!”

Media Development. The Fazakerleys live in Irvine, CA.

(Petrak ’09) Fisher is no exception. She and a

Jessica (Haycraft ’10 and MA ’13) and

the focus of her and her fellow students’ efforts was

husband Donny Guilfoyle are proud parents to daughter

missions work, Ellen herself wasn’t in good health.

Scarlett Rose. She was born on August 30, 2014.

Since high school she had struggled with the eating

Adrienne (Monje ’08) and David Garcia ’14 welcomed their son Tayte John Garcia on May 23, 2014. He has brought so much joy and love to their family.

Ashley (Brock ’10) and Scott Houston ’11 married at The Parker Ranch in June 2012, and currently live in Irvine. Scott is the creative media director for Sanctuary Belize. He also does work for his own business, 32 Productions, editing spots and commercials for the Los Angeles Clippers. Ashley started her own ETSY business, selling hand-sewn items and launched a lifestyle blog: Live Styled Live Creative. The Houston’s son, Jude, was born on November 8, 2013.

Christian and Kelly (Fechter) Kaysen ’10 welcomed son Porter Michael Kaysen into the world on February 21, 2014. Christian is a wedding photographer, and Kelly is a stay-at-home-

group from Vanguard travelled to Bhutan, and while

disorder anorexia, and after coming to terms with it through counseling while at Vanguard, she was trying to get better. Her prayers for insight were answered by a friend on that missions trip, who spoke to Ellen about focusing on good health by eating simple, raw foods.

Ellen explored and then embraced the raw food lifestyle, and through it she completed her journey to exceptional health. “I prayed to God that He would bring me a new light, and bring something in my life to help me heal,” she says. Ellen now enjoys an entirely vegan diet consisting of whole, fresh, ripe, raw, organic fruits and vegetables, and is using her own story as a platform to advocate for others to experience the holistic wellness that comes with eating simple good food. For Ellen, this advocacy is not merely about what to eat, however. She wants others to realize how a flourishing body leads to a flourishing mind and a flourishing spirit.

“I look to Genesis 1:29,” she says. “In which God spoke to Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden and said, ‘I give you every seed-bearing plant on the face of the whole earth and every tree that has fruit with seed in it. They will be yours for food.’ In the

Ellen is particularly proud of how this diet has contributed to the good health of her husband Andrew and her son, Elvis. “There is a lot of misinformation about what kind of food we ‘should’ feed our kids. Elvis has been a raw vegan from birth, and it’s clear to everyone who sees him how healthy and happy he is! We respect his body by feeding him the healthiest foods, giving him the healthiest, happiest start to his life that we can.”

For Ellen, eating raw and organic fruits and vegetables is a way to positively enact social justice, as it can benefit the health and wellness of people of every class and nation. Ellen learned about social justice at Vanguard from the late Dr. Elizabeth Leonard. “Her passion oozed out her,” says Ellen. “I remember so many things vividly from that class. It was impossible not to learn from her.”

Ellen possesses the same passion for teaching and advocating that she observed in Dr. Leonard, and she is the living proof of her message. “God wants us to thrive,” she says. “I want to help create awareness and love for health so we can all benefit. Helping others nourish both themselves and their children to feel their best is my desire and passion!”

If you would like to learn more about the raw food vegan diet, check out Ellen’s website mangoislandmamma.com or her Instagram profile @ellenfisher.

Garden of Eden, there was no death, and I look to

mom. The Kaysens live in San Juan Capistrano.

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Nick and Brittany

Katie (Elser ’10) and

Alli (Swanson ’09) and

(Cromelin) Petersen

husband Mike Laine were

husband Bobby Talley were

’10 are expecting their first

married in April 2014. They

married on April 26, 2014

child in March 2015.

recently bought a home in

in Kettleman City. Alli is

Livermore. Katie works in

the co-founder and director

Human Resources at

of marketing at 31 Bits

Jordan and Ashton (Heath) Smith ’09 welcomed their first child,

Amazon where she supports the Digital Music team in

[31bits.com.] Bobby is a high school Algebra teacher at

their San Francisco offices. She has been with the

Aliso Niguel High School. The Talleys spend most of

company for four years.

their free time traveling. Follow their adventures on

Heath Wolfgang, on

Brandon ’11 and

February 5, 2014. They live in Granite Bay. Ashton is a freelance graphic artist, and Jordan is the founder and sales director of an expo company.

JUST MARRIED Jeanette (Shelton ’05) and husband Tony Aiello were married in August 2014. Jeanette has been using her BA in Communication by working in TBN’s TV Production crew for 7 years. Since then, she’s done a variety of work, including freelance crew and acting for TV and film in Los Angeles.

Brian Burhenn ’07 married wife Leslie on June 21, 2014 in Tacoma, Wash. Brian is in the ARC/ MAT program at Seattle Pacific University and is student teaching full-time at high schools. He will graduate next summer with his teaching certificate and a Masters of Arts in Teaching. His wife is an elementary school teacher. They live in Lynnwood, Wash. with their dog, Gunnar.

Abigail (Bucher)

Samantha (May ’10)

Muchow ’15 were

Venter recently returned to

married May 24, 2014 in

the United States after living

Abigail’s hometown of

in South Africa for the past

Reedley. They met 4 years

year. She brought her

ago during Brandon’s last semester and her first semester

and husband Brian Foott were married on April 5, 2014 in San Diego.

After meeting at a mutual friend’s wedding years earlier, Missy and Brian celebrated their wedding day

favorite South African, Jayde

at Vanguard. They are thankful for their families and their

Venter, back with her and shortly after they were

large wedding party for supporting them on their

engaged. They were married in a small ceremony

wedding day. They live in Costa Mesa. Brandon is the

overlooking the Columbia River in Oregon and revealed

worship leader at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church in

it to the world with a “subtle” message,

Newport Beach and Abigail is completing her last

#DidWeJustGetMarried. They live in Costa Mesa with

semester at Vanguard.

their adorable Labsky, Buhle Suikerbossie.

Sebastian Muller ’08

Rene ’04 and

and wife Chelsea were

Rebekah (Killam ’12)

married on May 31, 2014

Scheys were married on

in Frazier Park, California.

August 15, 2014 in

They live in Waterford,

Michigan. Rebekah is

Ireland since August 2014

pursuing an MFA in

and are full-time missionaries with Calvary Waterford

production design from Chapman University. Rene

Christian Church. Sebastian is the worship director and

received an MFA in poetry from Mills College and now

leads up construction projects in the churches’ city center

works as a writer and teaches English at Fullerton

Coffee Shop called Portico. Chelsea volunteers in

College and Golden West College. They live in

Portico, and at the church. To learn more about their

Huntington Beach.

ministry, check out sebastianroland.blogspot.com.

Laura (Buckner ’08) and Ross Nelson ’08

Missy (Ashurst ’02)

Instagram: @traveling_newlyweds.

got married on May 10, 2014 in Corona Del Mar, CA. They are currently living in Eastside Costa Mesa with

IN MEMORY Bill J. Kuykendall ’56 passed away on August 23, 2014.

Sharon Kinnison Williams ’64 passed away on October 4, 2014.

their pug, Lola. Ross is CEO of Marshall Reddick Real Estate in Newport Beach. Laura is a Sales Executive for Stauber Ingredients in Fullerton.

with family and friends at The Crosby Club in Rancho Santa Fe. The bride and groom were honored to have their dear friend, David Roseno ’00 officiate. Missy and Brian reside in Carmel Valley.

Send us your photos!

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.

46 vanguard magazine FALL/WINTER 2014

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Vanguard

welcome to the neighborhood

All over the world, Vanguard alumni join together in friendship and fellowship. Even when they are unable to return for annual alumni events like Homecoming, these friends stay connected to the legacy of Vanguard by nurturing the formative relationships that found their first expression at the school. They are the Vanguard Underground.

Sarah (Luckett ’02) Atherton, Amber (Young ’02) Holden, and Candice (DeVito ’02) Romley arrived at Vanguard University as freshmen in 1998 and immediately found a built-in community at Laguna Hall—the theme of their new home on the 4th floor was Welcome to the Neighborhood.

During a year of floor bonding events, study sessions, trips to chapel, and other campus activities, a friendship blossomed between Sarah, Amber, Candice, and three others: Rachel (Metzger ’01) Fessler, Kelli (Matthews ’01) Kimmel, and Joanna (Harrel ’02) Ackerman. Now, a little over a decade after their graduation, the friendship of these six women is still thriving, due in large part to how carefully they have nurtured it.

The foundation of their friendship was built on the pure joy of participating in all that Vanguard community had to offer. “It felt like summer camp all the time,” recalls Amber, speaking of the fun they had as college students. “We did everything. We felt safe, and we felt like we were a part of something.” This allowed the women to support each other in the difficult times of college life as well, when they faced relationship problems or challenging classes. They made an effort to see each other in the summer, extending their friendship beyond the context of the campus.

They extended it further upon graduation, meeting regularly to watch their favorite TV shows and establishing traditions like having breakfast with each other on their birthdays and a Thanksgiving potluck. “It used to be our TV shows that brought us together,” says Sarah. “But as time went by, big life events—the real stuff—brought us together. We had weddings, baby showers, and children.”

As their good times together “matured,” the difficult times also become more serious. “I went through a divorce that was not my choice,” says Candice. “It was very traumatic. Initially everyone I knew was concerned for me, but eventually

their concern faded, while my pain was still there. These are the friends who knew that, who didn’t forget me and what I was going through.” Over the years, the women have remained intimately familiar with these memories, writing about their hardships, disappointments, goals, and successes in a memory journal they share and add to individually. “It’s an idea I copied from my mom and her friends,” says Amber. “It’s a way for us to stay connected and remember life together.”

Adds Candice, “It’s great to see how far we’ve come through everything. It’s very important to us, so we always make time to do it.”

Looking at how far Sarah, Amber, and Candice have come in their careers is proof that it wasn’t actually just “summer camp” at Vanguard. Each of the women has a career which found its germination in the mentorship and instruction of Vanguard professors. While Sarah was a business major under the tutelage of Ed Westbrook, she secured an internship at a coffee company. She’s now a vice president at the same company. Amber is a teacher who received her credential and MA from Vanguard and counts Dr. Miki Gil as instrumental in preparing her for a career in education. And Candice was influenced profoundly by the late Dr. Elizabeth Leonard, who inspired her to pursue graduate school and a professional calling in social work.

Vanguard welcomed Sarah, Amber, Candice, Rachel, Kelli, and Joanna into a “neighborhood” of relationship, and they still live there. “They are my family,” says Sarah. “I’ve learned so much from them, about how to be grateful, how to be honest, and how to be a good mother.” Amber and Candice agree, adding that their intimacy is a cherished token of their shared history. “When you’re young, you have a lot of friends,” says Amber. “Then, as you get older, the ones who stay close are the ones you hold tighter.”

Are you part of the Vanguard Underground?

Give us the scoop on your story. Email alumni@vanguard.edu

Above, left to right: Fourth floor friends (clockwise), Jenny (Sampson) Clark, Sarah (Luckett) Atherton, Rachel (Metzger) Fessler, Amber (Young) Holder, Beth (McKinney) Hickman, Kirsten (Seppala) Daniels, Aleta (Glaze) Guinto, Candice (DeVito) Romley, Kelli (Matthews) Kimmel; Candice, Sarah, Amber, Beth; Amber, Kelli, Rachel, Candice, Joanna (Harrel) Ackerman, Sarah. vanguard magazine FALL/WINTER 2014

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Va n g u a r d U n i v e r s i t y

Visit ensurejustice.com to register for the 2015 Ensure Justice conference and for more information about how you can get involved with GCWJ! 714-966-6360

e n s u r e j u s t i c e . c o m

48 vanguard magazine FALL/WINTER 2014

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learn of me

shovel snow there and at the church. If I didn’t do it well, I’d have to do it over again. I also learned about excellence and persistence by observing my father embody these traits in his own work—in his preparation for his sermons and his dedication to his congregation.

I saw my own role as a parent somewhat like a bank account. When children are young, they can’t get enough of you, and that’s when you “invest” as much as you possibly can of love, time, and affection. When they get older and begin to strive for independence, they make “withdrawals.” If you haven’t saved up enough by then, relationships are rougher.

Your children know your real self. I invested in my daughter by being there. No matter what we did –skiing, camping, hiking, backpacking, being in the outdoors—the important thing is that we were doing it together.

In your professional or academic life, you can maintain high standards of excellence, and still be kind, gentle, and gracious. Dr. Don Lorance and Dr. Larry McHargue taught me that while I was their student and then their colleague at Vanguard.

Dr. McHargue was the first Christian I became close with who wasn’t Pentecostal. He was orthodox Presbyterian, and he opened my eyes to how people love Jesus, follow him, and obey him no matter what their denomination.

The most heavenly experiences of my life were in times

Life Lessons from Vanguard University Luminaries

of prayer in the presence of the Holy Spirit. Growing up Pentecostal, I got used to the notion that Christian life was episodic: first you

DR. CECIL MILLER Dr. Cecil Miller has taught in the biology department at Vanguard University for 28 years. Besides teaching and research, Dr. Miller has held numerous administrative positions at Vanguard including department chair, division chair, dean, associate provost, and faculty vice-chair of the faculty senate.

were saved, then water baptized, then baptized in the Holy Spirit. But maturity in faith taught me that the guidance of the Spirit is every day, every hour, every minute, through everything, no matter how mundane.

As a scientist, I was never bothered by the “tension” between science and faith. Whatever you believe, as a Christian or a scientist, there are gaps in your knowledge. And you bridge those gaps with faith. God made the laws of nature and science, and I am not troubled by the parts I don’t know or understand.

My work as a scientist has revealed to me the majesty of God. It can’t be a random process. Christ holds it all together.

You should do things with excellence, or not do

We can live a fulfilled life if we recognize our

them at all. I learned that from my father, who was the pastor of a small

purpose is to glorify God. Then a life of significance comes from

German Pentecostal church near Edmonton, Alberta in Canada, where I grew

being obedient to God by fulfilling our calling with Christ-like character and

up. We lived in the parsonage, and it was my job among many others to

with hearts of joy. vanguard magazine FALL/WINTER 2014

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