Vanguard Magazine Spring-Summer 2020 by Vanguard University

R E L E N T L E S S P U R S U IT

S P R I N G + S U M M E R 2 02 0

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SPRING + SUMMER 2020 | VOLUME 21 | ISSUE 2

UNI V E R S I T Y GOV E R NANCE + ADM I NI S T R AT I ON CHAIR, BOARD OF TRUSTEES Dr. John C. Martin PRESIDENT Dr. Michael J. Beals ’81, MA ’89 SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT FOR ACADEMIC AFFAIRS/PROVOST Dr. Pete C. Menjares ’87 VICE PRESIDENT FOR ENROLLMENT MANAGEMENT Kim Johnson, MPA VICE PRESIDENT FOR UNIVERSITY ADVANCEMENT Justin McIntee ’98, MBA ’09 VICE PRESIDENT FOR STUDENT AFFAIRS AND CAMPUS OPERATIONS Dr. Tim Young VICE PRESIDENT FOR FINANCE/CFO Jeremy Moser ’97, MA ’04

VANGUAR D M AGAZ I NE EDITOR IN CHIEF Melanie Vogel MANAGING EDITOR Devon Johnson CREATIVE DIRECTOR + LEAD GRAPHIC DESIGNER Tawny Marcus

I S S UE CONT R I B UT OR S Michelle Sullivan Photography Lead Photographer

April Conn ’16 Writer

Jordan Morrison ’20 Photographer

Jeff Melton ’11 Writer

Andre Niesing Photographer

Jennifer Melton ’08 Writer

Chris Roberston Photography Photographer

David Vazquez ’12 Writer

Jason Wallis Photographer VA N GUAR D

On the cover: The Waugh Student Center was dedicated on February 28, 2020 during the milestone VU100 Weekend that celebrated Vanguard’s 100th anniversary. Read about this celebration of the century on page 14.

I N T H IS IS S U E

VU NOW 12 CO-CURRICULAR

VIRAL COMMUNITY:

When students moved off campus, connection and community moved online.

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14 FEATURE

WELCOMING WAUGH:

Experience the historical “VU100 Weekend” and grand opening of the Waugh Student Center.

20 EXPLORE

SUPPORTING FRONTLINE HEROES:

Drs. Annette Callis and Julia Wilson show how they’re meeting the unique needs of student nurses working during the COVID-19 pandemic.

VU MISSION

VU FORWARD

25 EXPERTISE

40 CO-CURRICULAR

CULTIVATING GRATITUDE:

IMPROVING STUDENT EMPLOYABILITY:

Dr. Chip Espinoza MA ’05 reveals his strategy for creating a culture of appreciation at Vanguard.

Vanguard’s Career Services team restructures resources to support students as national unemployment rates rise.

28 FEATURE

ABOLISHING MODERN-DAY SLAVERY:

Dr. Sandra Morgan MA ’08 joins White Houseappointed team committed to end human trafficking.

35 MY TAKE

PRESERVING OUR LEGACY:

Resident memory keeper Pam Crenshaw ’92 shares her philosophy and insights on keeping Vanguard’s past present.

LIVING WELL: NOURISHING OUR COMMUNITY:

One student leads the charge to understand, articulate and solve food and resource insecurity.

46 SCENE

ENGINEERING THE LOCAL ECONOMY:

An integral part of the region’s social and economic fabrics, Vanguard is improving the well-being of OC.

VA N GUAR D

42 FEATURE

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FROM THE PRESIDENT

“BEING CONFIDENT OF THIS, THAT HE WHO BEGAN A GOOD WORK IN YOU WILL CARRY IT ON TO COMPLETION UNTIL THE DAY OF CHRIST JESUS.” – PHILIPPIANS 1:6 If you’re like me, the phrase

“Now I want you to know, brothers

Weekend celebration, in which

“unprecedented times” has been

and sisters that what has happened

more than 1,000 of our students,

ringing in your ears and weighing

to me has actually served to

faculty, staff, alumni and friends

on your heart over the past few

advance the gospel.” Paul believed

reflected on all God has done for

months. Whether written in one

that his time in chains served his

and through Vanguard University

of the countless “our company’s

work – his circumstance was not

over the past century. I am deeply

response on COVID-19” emails

wasted; God used it for good and

grateful for this shared memory of

from presidents and CEOs across

for His glory.

celebration, which now serves as a

the country or heard in newscasts

reminder that God will equip us as

or updates from local and national

I believe the same is true for

government officials, or in social

Vanguard University. The onset of

media posts and conversations with

COVID-19 challenged us to rethink

This unprecedented time has

friends expressing the felt pain of

how our students learn, our faculty

revealed our community’s resilience

racism, these words remind us that

teach, our administration leads

and I am hopeful the stories you

we are in a challenging moment in

and our community cares for one

read in this issue will remind and

time. In these unprecedented times,

another. As we have embraced and

encourage you that God has begun

however, I am encouraged by the

endured the rising and receding

a good work in you and will equip

truth that God is our anchor and

tides of uncertainty, I could not

you to carry it to completion.

shelter during storms.

be more encouraged, inspired or

He calls us.

humbled by the relentless pursuit of These words – “unprecedented

God’s will I have witnessed in our

times” – remind me of the letters

students, faculty, staff and alumni.

Paul wrote to the Philippians while

As we continue celebrating Vanguard’s 100th anniversary, we are not allowing this season to hold us back; we are embracing

he was imprisoned for spreading

Less than a month before our

the challenges and finding ways

the Gospel. In these unprecedented

operations moved off campus and

to be better. We are committed to

times for Paul, he embraced what

online, we opened and dedicated the

relentlessly fulfilling our mission

could have been seen as a set back

Waugh Student Center – an emblem

to pursue knowledge, cultivate

and actually used the experience as

of our continued pursuit to better

character, deepen faith, and equip

a springboard for sharing the Good

serve our students. This historical

each student for a Spirit-empowered

News of Jesus Christ. In Philippians

moment in Vanguard’s 100-year

life of Christ-centered leadership

1:12, he goes as far as to write

history kicked off our VU100

and service. Committed to our call,

VA N GUAR D

DR. MICHAEL J. BEALS ’81, MA ’89 P R E S I D E N T, VA N G U A R D U N I V E R S I T Y

SOCIAL

1. @vanguardu “Another beautiful day in paradise. We can’t wait to see you in one week from today.”

4. @vulions “Ready, Set, Go!! #VUTF begins the 2020 Indoor season at the ‘On Your Mark’ Meet.”

2. @vanguardu “Samson had a great time at our Welcome Back party today… Thank you @vubridge for putting this party together for our students and @bakerytruck for the FREE ice cream.”

5. @vu_intercultural “Diversity and Inclusion on @vanguardu campus has existed since 2009. This school year we celebrate 10 amazing years of pursuing inclusive excellence and reconciliation on this campus.”

3. @vulions “@aj__pujols is the latest student-athlete highlighted in the #ALionsHeart series!” 6. @vubridge “We had a blast at Pit Pride, it was a huge success! Thanks for coming out! #VUPride #ClawsUp #WeAreVU”

SPR I NG + SUMM ER 2 0 20

7. @vanguardalumni “A last supper: Alumni Council member Summer Yates ‘10 and several other Vanguard alumni returned to the ‘Caf’ to enjoy a final meal and reminisce on great times spent at these tables during their time at VU.”

9 9. @vanguardmusic “Getting back into the swing of things is much easier when you’re surrounded by good company. #vanguardmusic #vumusic #vanguarduniversity #wearevu.”

10 10. @vanguardsga “Come get to know the familiar faces of your representatives and hang with SGA this week!”

11 11. @vanguardsga “‘You can’t control your situation, but you can change the way you perceive it.’ This week our SGA president shared a message called ‘It’s Not What It Seems.’”

8. @lyceumtheater “‘Women’s issues are rightfully given their due [in ‘9 to 5’], but the emphasis remains on comedy in this high-energy presentation featuring ambitious production numbers…’ -Tom Titus (LA Times’ Daily Pilot)”

#weareVU

F R O M O U R FA C U LT Y

INTRODUCTION + EXCERPT FROM

THE PRODUCTIVE ONLINE PROFESSOR BY DR. BONNI STACHOWIAK DEAN OF TEACHING AND LEARNING ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR OF BUSINESS AND MANAGEMENT

“The Productive Online Professor” shares tools and approaches that may be used in charting a course toward greater productivity. It is intended to be a professional resource for fulfilling our roles with excellence and joy, while managing other priorities in our personal and professional lives. “One important means for

be wise about ways of infusing

doing absolutely nothing. Put the

remaining productive has been

ourselves with positive affect by

task list away and spend some

saved for last. The people whom

intentionally being around others

time sitting in the sun. Notice how

we spend time with can have a

who bring us greater joy:

the birds call to one another or the

direct effect on our emotional state, which in turn can impact our energy levels and ultimately our ability to be productive. Christopher Emdin (2017) epitomizes this sentiment:

‘When we attune ourselves to someone, we can’t help but feel along with them, if only subtly. We resonate so similarly that their emotions enter us—even when we don’t want them to. In

‘The kind of teacher you will

short, the emotions we catch have

become is directly related to the

consequences’ (p. 26).

kind of teachers you associate with. Teaching is a profession where misery does more than just love company—it recruits, seduces, and romances it. Avoid people who are unhappy and disgruntled about the possibilities for transforming education. They are the enemy of the spirit of the teacher’ (p. 208). As we interact with others, our moods can be influenced. Goleman (2007), an emotional intelligence

We must avoid the temptation of becoming addicted to busyness, lest we miss the gifts that are in the quiet places. My wish for you is that you have been able to step off the walkway a while as you read this book and consider how to have more peace in your life.”

Although we may not always have the luxury of choosing who we collaborate with in our work, we can select where we direct our attention. As professors, we can choose to delight in the opportunity it is to be able to mentor and coach our students and help them discover ways of contributing to a broader learning community. One final piece of advice I will leave you with is to spend time VA N GUAR D

researcher, recommends that we

sound of the city where you live.

VU NOW

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C E L E B R AT I N G A N D C O M M E M O R AT I N G C U R R E N T VA N G UA R D U N I V E R S I T Y H A P P E N I N G S .

IN T HIS SE C T ION 11 BECOMING

HONOR-ABLE:

Dr. Mike Wilson ’83 inaugurates Vanguard’s first Honors Program.

12 VIRAL COMMUNITY:

When students moved off campus, connection and community moved online.

14 WELCOMING WAUGH:

Experience the historical “VU100 Weekend” and grand opening of the Waugh Student Center.

18 A FOUNDATION OF SUPPORT:

Honoring pillars of support who brought Vanguard’s dream of a new student center into fruition.

20 SUPPORTING

FRONTLINE HEROES:

Drs. Annette Callis and Julia Wilson show how they’re meeting the unique needs of student nurses working during the COVID-19 pandemic.

BLESSING THE MOST VULNERABLE:

VA N GUAR D

Juniors Hannah Durkee and fiancé Aidan Miller activated their church youth group to serve the most vulnerable members of their community.

VU IS A MINORITYSERVING INSTITUTION (63% STUDENTS OF COLOR)

AND A HISPANICSERVING INSTITUTION (42% HISPANIC ENROLLMENT) 

1 OF ONLY 4 UNIVERSITIES IN ORANGE COUNTY WITH THIS DESIGNATION.

LARGEST INCOMING CLASS (2019/2020)

LARGEST TOTAL DEGREE-SEEKING TRADITIONAL UNDERGRADUATE POPULATION

IN VU’S 100-YEAR HISTORY

5 NEW CAMPUS IMPROVEMENTS FUNDED THROUGH PHILANTHROPY IN THE LAST 5 YEARS:

5 NEW ACADEMIC DEGREE PROGRAMS LAUNCHED IN THE PAST 5 YEARS:

WAUGH STUDENT CENTER, SCOTT ACADEMIC CENTER RENOVATION AND EXPANSION, DEAN HARVEY BASEBALL FIELD, RENOVATED LYCEUM THEATER AND EXPANDED STEM LABORATORIES

ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES, ACTUARIAL SCIENCE, DATA SCIENCE, ENGINEERING PHYSICS AND TRADITIONAL UNDERGRADUATE NURSING

VU IS A MAJOR ECONOMIC CONTRIBUTOR TO THE REGION, GENERATING $474 MILLION IN ECONOMIC IMPACT FOR CA, OF WHICH $211 MILLION OCCURS WITHIN ORANGE COUNTY.

UNIVERSITIES AWARDED THE PRESTIGIOUS NATIONAL ENDOWMENT FOR THE HUMANITIES GRANT FROM CALIFORNIA. OTHER RECIPIENTS INCLUDE STANFORD, USC, UCLA AND UCI.

EXPERTISE

BECOMING HONOR-ABLE BY DEVON JOHNSON

Enhancing academic programs at Vanguard University is a core function for Associate Provost and Dean of the College Dr. Mike Wilson ’83. Each semester, he reviews curricula and solicits feedback from undergraduate students, faculty and administration to make changes that better serve the University. As Vanguard prepared to turn 100, President Dr. Michael J. Beals ’81, MA ’89 inspired the team to launch the University’s first honors program during the 2019/2020 academic year – so Dr. Wilson set out to do just that.

The inaugural honors cohort, pictured above, started in fall 2019 and was comprised of 20 students across 12 different majors, fulfilling Dr. Wilson’s vision for diverse interests. Because each student has requirements specific to their majors – which vary from pre-nursing to engineering physics and others –

classes are flexible so students can take core courses within the honors program together. “Honors students have unique needs and, as always, we are adapting to those. I believe our program challenges them through enriched learning opportunities that develop their analytical and expressive skills, deepen their understanding of complex issues and questions, and broaden their perspectives.” Sydney Lutrell, a freshman within the first cohort, agrees. “Our classes are informative and challenging and there is always a door open to hear our ideas on how to improve the program. I’m looking forward to seeing how [it] grows to build an encouraging academic and faithful community.”

VA N GUAR D

He teamed up with Vice President for Enrollment Management Kim Johnson to survey students on their ideal honors program, then the two worked with Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost Dr. Pete C. Menjares ’87 to devise a

plan. Johnson focused on reaching prospects for the new program and Dr. Wilson worked with Dr. Menjares and faculty to build the academic coursework. “Our goal was to create a plan that brought together highly-motivated, highachieving and accomplished students with broad interests to develop them academically, while also providing a community of equally motivated peers to grow with and encourage and support one another,” said Dr. Wilson.

CO-CURRICULAR

VIRAL COMMUNITY BY DEVON JOHNSON

When the Vanguard University

Assistant Director of Campus

overall well-being,” said Kinney.

campus temporarily closed in

Recreation Kyle Kinney turned

“We’ve been building social and

March due to the outbreak of

to the virtual field to bring online

emotional wellness aspects into

COVID-19 and students’ homes

intramural sports to students.

our initiatives and we don’t want

became their classrooms and

Kinney commissioned at-home,

that to stop when students are off

dorms, Associate Dean of Students

Vanguard student-specific events

Denise Khaw set out to create a

campus. So, even when they’re

through online video games like

plan to keep students connected to

remote, they earned [Campus

FIFA, NBA2K, digital versions of

each other and the University.

board games and video trivia nights.

Cup] points. They’re forming

“From a sports and intramural

“It was important that students

standpoint, [these platforms]

knew we were still invested in

can bring people together over a

them, we want to stay connected

common interest,” said Kinney.

and we had empathy for our

“Students can interact, play and

seniors who were missing out on

talk with each other.”

iconic events like Junior Senior

Earlier in the year, a new campus-

Khaw said. Unsurprisingly, Khaw

wide initiative laid the groundwork

and her student affairs team first

for increased participation from

turned to social media to reach

students. Through Campus Cup,

students. Thanks to a partnership

a brainchild of Kinney’s, students

student-centric #VUremote content was created and posted quickly.

The second was a six-week prayer challenge initiated by Residence

An added benefit to creating virtual games, Kinney says, is that the proverbial field is evened so varsity athletes can play their sport with

athletic games, student life activities and other campus events.

The innovations during the quarantine have impacted the future of student life, says Khaw. “We see this as a launch pad for us to get creative and grow these remote programs even after the quarantine.” she said. “The goal was to grow as many engagement opportunities as possible in the time apart, so the Vanguard community

Life and supported by the Spiritual

“Campus Cup is an initiative to

feels stronger and more confident

Formation Department.

get all students involved for their

when they come back to campus.”

1 SPR I NG + SUMM ER 2 0 20

through their residence hall or for attendance and participation in

show their at-home workstations.

are automatically assigned teams Commuter Life and awarded points

The first wave invited students to

others from campus,” said Kinney.

friends who aren’t on the team.

Banquet and commencement,”

with the marketing department,

connections and engaging with

INTRAMURAL SPORTS promote camaraderie and help students combat stress by promoting mental and physical health.

2 THE INAUGURAL CAMPUS CUP WINNER will be announced at the campus kickoff event in the fall.

DID YOU KNOW

NBA2K HOSTED

that FIFA alone has over 45 million unique players online?

its first live broadcast with professional NBA players where the winner got to donate $100,000 to COVID-19 relief.

VA N GUAR D

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F E AT U R E

WELCOMING WA U G H BY MELANIE VOGEL

On February 28, 2020, nearly 1,000 students, alumni, faculty, staff, friends and family from across the country gathered for the celebration of a century: the grand opening of the Waugh Student Center and commemoration of VU100, Vanguard University’s 100th anniversary. Flurries of confetti, balloon showers, words of gratitude and songs of praise filled the air in the brand-new Waugh Student Center, vibrantly evoking memories of our individual pasts and visions for our collective future. As the celebration began, an unofficial theme emerged: “great is Thy faithfulness.” Building namesakes and devoted Vanguard supporters Ruth and Fred ’80 Waugh (pictured right, below) prepared hearts before doors even opened, inviting President Dr. Michael J. Beals ’81, MA ’89 and several staff members to join them to thank God for ten decades of faithfulness and blessings. “We are in such awe, Lord, for all you have done,” prayed Ruth. “Thank You for every student who walks through this building – and thank You that You know them and have great plans for them.” Following worship led by the Vanguard Concert Choir and Orchestra under the direction of Dr. James Melton, Vice President for University Advancement Justin McIntee ’98, MBA ’09 and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost Dr. Pete C. Menjares ’87 welcomed guests and kicked off the program. “At Vanguard, we see all spaces that foster learning as classrooms,” said Dr. Menjares. “The Student Center is absolutely a place for learning – and teaching. With this students or students can meet with one another to study or discuss projects and assignments.”

VA N GUAR D

new space, professors can have impromptu meetings with

With a sustained posture of gratitude, McIntee reminded

“But the Imagine campaign is about more than just

attendees of the journey to this historical moment, which

fundraising for new buildings,” he continued. “We’re

began in July 2017 with the launching of Imagine: The

preparing for our next 100 years by ensuring generations

Campaign for Vanguard University.

of students have places and resources needed for

“Thanks to the help of so many here tonight, and

academic, spiritual, relational and physical growth.”

God’s favor, we achieved the $10.4 million fundraising

A prayer of dedication by Chair of the Board of

commitment for the Waugh Student Center – and

Trustees John Martin, proclamations from Costa Mesa

today, that’s right, today, we passed the $12 million

Mayor Pro Tem John Stephens and California State

milestone, leaving less than $900,000 left on the

Senator John Moorlach, and ribbon cutting by Student

endowment goal. Praise God for His continued

Government Association President Joe Contreras and

provision and your support!”

Executive Vice President Mireya Lopez rounded out the official dedication of the Waugh Student Center.

“TODAY IS NOT JUST ABOUT A BUILDING, BUT OUR COMMITMENT TO MAKING A

VANGUARD EDUCATION ACCESSIBLE AND AFFORDABLE, TO LAUNCHING INNOVATIVE

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PROGRAMS AND BUILDING WORLD-CLASS FACILITIES.” – PRESIDENT DR. MICHAEL J. BEALS

“Today is not just about a building, but our

their own: a time capsule “filled with items that represent

commitment to making a Vanguard education accessible

who we are, how God has been faithful to us and what

and affordable, to launching innovative programs and

Vanguard means to us,” said Contreras.

building world-class facilities,” said President Beals as he shifted the focus to VU100. “It’s about ensuring our students have everything they need in both student learning and student development to succeed and pursue their true calling.” Before heading to the Bruce Lindsay Café for the firstever meal in the Student Center, President Beals presented

“Tonight is more than just a celebration of our first 100 years,” he continued. “It’s the beginning of another 100 years of putting students first and preparing us for a Spirit-empowered life.” Take a virtual tour of the new Waugh Student Center at vanguard.edu/student-center.

Contreras – on behalf of all students – with a key to Vanguard. Contreras returned the gesture with a gift of

2020 VANGUARD UNIVERSITY ALUMNI AWARD HONOREES JEFF MOTSKE, NICOLE JOHNSON AND REV. RICH GUERRA ALSO WERE RECOGNIZED DURING THE EVENT. LEARN MORE ABOUT THE HONOREES ON PAGES 54-55.

VA N GUAR D

SCENE

A F O U N DAT I O N O F S U P P O RT BY MELANIE VOGEL

Vanguard University is blessed to have a community deeply passionate about seeing our University and our students thrive. The following people built a foundation of spiritual and financial support that brought the dream of a new student center into fruition. We are infinitely grateful for them and all who supported the Waugh Student Center.

FRE D ’80 AN D RUT H WAU GH

Deeply and humbly committed to

PA U L ’ 5 5 A N D BA R BA R A ( R I LE Y ’5 4) H E ATH

BR U C E LI N D S AY

When Bruce Lindsay wandered

the Holy Spirit’s guidance, it has

Paul and Barbara Heath devoted

onto Vanguard University’s campus

been the mission of their nearly

their lives to serving God, faithfully

in search of a free newspaper, cheap

80 years of marriage to shepherd

giving to His ministries and

meal and quiet spot to read, he

young believers into Christ-led

spreading the Gospel around the

found all that – and a community

and Spirit-filled leaders who are

world. Barbara’s kind, encouraging

that felt like family. Eating at The

on fire for Jesus. At Vanguard,

and warm spirit married with

Café soon became part of his daily

Fred and Ruth are pillars in our

Paul’s entrepreneurial drive and

routine and eating with jovial Bruce

community. They have offered

passion for Christ to create a

became a must-do for the campus

prayers and partnership to many of

powerhouse force that made God-

community. These interactions led

our past presidents and have been

sized change everywhere they were

Bruce to a relationship with Christ

champions of faith to all who have

called. It’s our privilege to name the

and his adoption of Vanguard as

encountered them. We are honored

Paul and Barbara Heath Forum in

his family. His legacy continues

to name the Waugh Student Center

their honor.

through the Bruce Lindsay Café,

after Fred and Ruth.

where generations of Lions will “eat with Bruce.”

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PA UL AN D A NGELIN E ODDO

D R . BE N N O VA K

E D WE S TBR O O K

The life and marriage of Paul and

To Dr. Ben Novak, his job as a

Faculty Emeritus Ed Westbrook led,

Angeline Oddo can be summed up

general surgeon was just a platform

inspired, educated, mentored and

from the heart of Micah 6:8: “act

for serving people however he

connected students with employers

justly, love mercy, walk humbly

could – all in the name of Jesus.

as a faculty member in the business

with your God.” They committed

Simply put, Dr. Ben was wherever

department at Vanguard University

themselves to serving others and

he was needed with whoever

for over three decades. Ed frequently

the Lord, as well as encouraging

needed him. Thanks to an

hosted groups of students for

those around them to love deeply

anonymous gift made in Dr. Ben’s

breakfast or lunch, so it was fitting to

and seek Godly wisdom in all they

memory, Vanguard will uphold

name The Ed Westbrook Cove in the

did. We are blessed to name the

his legacy for generations to come

Waugh Student Center in his honor.

Paul and Angeline Oddo Terrace in

through Dr. Ben's Coffee Bar.

their honor.

READ MORE ABOUT THESE DYNAMIC AND GENEROUS PILLARS OF OUR COMMUNITY AT VANGUARD.EDU/PILLARS.

VA N GUAR D

EXPLORE

SUPPORTING FRONTLINE HEROES BY DEVON JOHNSON

Vanguard University began training

them and the work they are doing,

and educating nurses nearly 15

being on the frontlines.”

years ago with the launch of an RN to BSN program. Education for nurses has since grown to include an MSN program that began in 2012 and a pre-licensure BSN program that began in 2018. When the COVID-19 pandemic began to spread throughout Orange County and beyond, though, nursing students were faced with new challenges. Program leaders Dr. Annette Callis and Dr. Julia Wilson, along with other nursing program leaders, responded to the call. “Nearly all of the graduate students in the MSN Program are working nurses in local hospitals. As they began to have to care for

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PICTURED ABOVE: INAUGURAL CLASS OF THE PRELICENSURE BSN PROGRAM AND RN TO BSN STUDENT GERRYBELLE ILAN, WHO MADE FACE SHIELDS FROM HOME FOR HER COLLEAGUES.

VANGUARD NURSING STUDENTS ARE SERVING ON THE FRONTLINES IN HOSPITALS THROUGHOUT ORANGE COUNTY. PLEASE JOIN US IN PRAYING FOR THEM AND ALL MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS WHO ARE CARING FOR THOSE AFFECTED BY COVID-19.

COVID-19 patients in addition to their normal responsibilities, the

Associate Professor of Nursing and Chair of the RN to BSN program Dr. Julia Wilson adapted care for her students by emphasizing their need in local communities. “My hope is that we teach [our students] how to care for patients as Jesus would care for them and treat patients’ family members as if they were their own family members,” said Dr. Wilson. “Keeping them focused on this helps keep their spirits high during an often difficult season.” Dr. Wilson’s Community Health Nursing course also encouraged students to volunteer in healthcare opportunities outside of the hospital.

demands on them increased,” said

“This kind of class is especially

MSN program coordinator, Dr.

crucial during this season because it

Callis. “When that happened, their

encourages students to care for their

stress and anxiety heightened and

community in ways that utilize their

it was clear they needed support.

skills, but offers them opportunities

I gave them more time than usual

to apply their learning in different

at the beginning of our online

ways,” she said. “In all they do, and

classes to talk about their work

now more than ever, I want them to

environments and how they were

see those in their community through

feeling. I made sure to be supportive

Christ’s eyes and care for them with

through texts and emails, showing

a Christian nurse's perspective.”

compassion and appreciation for

M Y TA K E

B LESS I NG TH E M O S T V UL NE RA BLE BY DEVON JOHNSON When the COVID-19 pandemic began to impact and discourage their community, junior Hannah Durkee and her fiancé junior Aidan Miller put on smiles and started an initiative to bring joy and bless those around them. Durkee and Miller, who is the youth pastor of student ministries at Shadow Rock church in La Quinta, CA, knew immediately that they needed to help. “We started with the idea of having the least vulnerable help the most vulnerable,” Durkee said. “From there, we approached our Shadow Rock youth and asked them if they would make a couple calls a week to the elderly in our church to see if they needed anything.” What started as a ministry to the older generations in their church spread to the La Quinta community as the story was picked up by a local newspaper, The Desert Sun. “We included a phone number in the article to let our fellow community members know that we wanted to help if they needed

someone to get groceries, pray with them or just have someone to talk to,” said Durkee. “Our goal was to encourage and activate young leaders in our church community and it was so rewarding to watch attitudes shift in our youth,” said Durkee. “As our students missed out on their proms or graduations, they stopped wallowing at home and started talking to their elders and shifted focus on ways they can help the community.” Durkee, Miller and Durkee’s mom, Christy (Varnell ’91), then delivered groceries and flowers all over town, leaving them at doorsteps and taking the time to talk – at a safe distance – to community members. “During this time of uncertainty, I’ve really come to understand Proverbs 19:21, ‘Many are the plans in a person's heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.’ Our goal is to respond and meet the needs of our community and this verse feels so applicable for this season,” said Durkee.

DID YOU KNOW? VA N GUAR D

HANNAH IS PART OF A VANGUARD LEGACY FAMILY; HER PARENTS CHRISTY (VARNELL ’91) AND BRUCE ’90 DURKEE, SISTER CASSANDRA (DURKEE ’16) RICHMOND AND GRANDPARENTS RICHARD ’66 AND ANITA “JOY” (MCELFRESH ’67) VARNELL ARE ALL VANGUARD ALUMNI.

VU MISSION

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H I G H L I G H T I N G T H O S E W H O E N G AG E W I T H A N D R E F L E C T T H E VA N G UA R D U N I V E R S I T Y M I S S I O N B E YO N D T H E CA M P U S B O R D E R S .

IN T HIS SE C T ION 25 CULTIVATING GRATITUDE:

Dr. Chip Espinoza MA ’05 reveals his strategy for creating a culture of appreciation at Vanguard.

2020 VANGUARD HALL OF FAME: Vanguard inducts athletic legends into its Athletics Hall of Fame.

28 ABOLISHING

MODERN-DAY SLAVERY:

Dr. Sandra Morgan MA ’08 joins White House-appointed team committed to end human trafficking.

LADIES WHO LAUNCH: Three alumnae business owners demonstrate how to serve God and empower others through their businesses.

34 SISTERS UNITED IN EDUCATION:

Sisters Lucy ’61 and Eloise ’62 have the same degree, but different callings.

35 PRESERVING OUR LEGACY:

VA N GUAR D

Resident memory keeper Pam Crenshaw ’92 shares her philosophy and insights on keeping Vanguard’s past present.

THE PRESIDENT’S CIRCLE IS A GROUP OF DONORS DEDICATED TO MAKING A PROFOUND IMPACT AT VANGUARD UNIVERSITY. WHY YOUR GIFT MATTERS President’s Circle is an opportunity for you to partner with Vanguard University in pursuing knowledge, cultivating character, deepening faith and equipping students for a Spirit‑empowered life of Christ‑centered leadership and service. Members of President’s Circle give $1,000 or more each calendar year, accelerating the vision and mission of the University. WHATEVER YOUR PASSION, YOUR GIFT WILL FUND A HOST OF PROGRAMS AND DEPARTMENTS, ALLOWING YOU TO SUPPORT THE INITIATIVES CLOSEST TO YOUR HEART.

Become a member today at vanguard.edu/circle. Meet our 2019 President’s Circle members on page 38.

EXPERTISE

C U L T I VAT I N G G R AT I T U D E BY DEVON JOHNSON

When it comes to shaping organizational culture and bridging generational gaps, Dean of Strategy and Innovation Dr. Chip Espinoza MA ’05 is the right person for the job. The author of several books such as Managing the Millennials, Millennials@ Work and Millennials Who Manage, Dr. Espinoza is uniquely qualified in understanding the value of every generation. He has studied how millennials, a large population of Vanguard’s workforce, interact at work and now uses his research to inform and shape Vanguard’s organizational culture. “The goal of my generational diversity work has been to break down an ‘us versus them’ mentality and champion investing in the success of each other to build a culture of gratitude,” said Dr. Espinoza. “Every generation offers a unique perspective based on the seasons of Vanguard they have experienced, and their collective views and soulful investments provide hope for where Vanguard is headed.” In addition to championing a culture of appreciation, Dr. Espinoza thinks we should have fun doing it! The new Waugh Student Center is indicative of a new era God is setting before Vanguard. “It was incredible to see generations of our students enjoying the dedication service [for the Student Center] – no matter the age – each of them grateful for God's goodness,” said Dr. Espinoza. “I see a real spirit of togetherness that inspires me to continue leading with appreciation, investing in the success of others and having fun while doing it!”

VA N GUAR D

2 0 2 0 AT H L E T I C S H A L L O F FA M E BY JEFF MELTON ’11

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O N F E B R U A R Y 1 5 , 2 0 2 0 , VA N G U A R D U N I V E R S I T Y I N D U C T E D T H E S I X T H A N D L A R G E S T C L A S S I N T O O U R AT H L E T I C S H A L L O F F A M E , G R A N T I N G E I G H T M E M B E R S AT H L E T I C S ’ H I G H E S T H O N O R .

R AND Y D O D G E ’9 4

PA U L A NDE RSON ’8 0

COACH, WOMEN’S AND MEN’S SOCCER

STUDENT ATHLETE, BASKETBALL

Randy Dodge returned to Vanguard in 2002 and spent 13 seasons as the Director of Soccer over both the women’s and men’s programs. While coaching the women’s team, he amassed a record of 186-60-27, including being ranked as high as number one in 2013 and led the men’s team to the playoffs 13 times. He was named GSAC Coach of the Year eight times and, as the current coach of the men’s team, has a career record of 210-114-20.

Paul Anderson, a force for Southern California College (SCC), averaged 15.3 points per game until his junior year when it went up to 23.1. In his final season, he scored 31.4 points per outing. Anderson was a three-time NAIA AllDistrict player and a twotime NAIA All-American Honorable Mention. Post SCC, he was drafted by the San Diego Clippers, played for the California Chiefs and ended with the New Zealand-Auckland (North Shore) National League Second Division.

OLGA HLUSHCHANKARECKZ IEGEL ’0 5 STUDENT ATHLETE, WOMEN’S TENNIS

Olga HlushchankaReckziegel played for Vanguard from 20032005. She was a three-time All-GSAC player for the dominant women’s tennis program and earned an NAIA All-American First Team her final two seasons. Hlushchanka-Reckziegel managed 90 career singles victories compared to only three losses, all at the number one position, where she faced off against the best singles player from opposing squads. She also was the highest ranked singles player in the nation for two straight years.

T IM FORT UGNO ’86 STUDENT ATHLETE, BASEBALL

Tim Fortugno was the first player from Southern California College (SCC) to make it to the Major League level when he joined the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim in 1992. At SCC, his team won the District III Championship twice and finished fourth at the NAIA Baseball World Series. His senior year at SCC, he struck out 153 batters in 102 innings and was named the conference Most Valuable Player. After retirement, he was an area scout for the Texas Rangers for seven years and then for the New York Mets for 14 years.

CO-CURRICULAR

MARISSA (C O THR AN ’0 5) BO O K E R STUDENT ATHLETE, WOMEN’S VOLLEYBALL

Marissa Cothran Booker joined the Lions her sophomore year as a walkon and proved to be an incredible asset. By the end of her Vanguard career, she had 3,745 assists and 124 service aces. She was a two-time All-GSAC performer and an NAIA Scholar Athlete as a senior. She ranks fourth all-time in total service aces. Cothran Booker holds the school record of total assists which is nearly 500 more than second place.

PA U L LA B LA NC

DR. JOHN WILSON

STUDENT ATHLETE, WRESTLING

MERITORIOUS SERVICE

Second-seeded Vanguard became the NAIA’s firstever Division I Women’s Basketball National Champion from the state of California, defeating sixth-seeded Trevecca Nazarene University, 7259, in the national title game. They were the first NAIA champion located outside Oklahoma or Tennessee since 1993 and the first program west of the Rockies to claim the NAIA Division I Women’s Championship. The team finished its national title run with a final record of 29-5. Their coach, Russ Davis, was selected as the Phyllis Holmes NAIA Coach of the Year.

VA N GUAR D

In 1974-75, the wrestling team was inducted into the Vanguard Athletic Department Hall of Fame. They went 20-0 in dual matches and held a 35-match win streak. The team qualified six members to the NAIA National Championships in Sioux City, Iowa including Paul La Blanc. He holds records in total falls (18) and fastest fall (18 seconds). La Blanc won the 157-pound weight class at the 1975 NAIA District III Championship. He was named Outstanding Wrestler at the Cal Tech Invitational.

Dr. John Wilson became a professor of history at SCC in 1989 and later became chair of the department of history and political science for nearly 30 years. He was a member of the Athletic Council assisting with award nominations and decisions for Athlete of the Year and Champions of Character, as well as with the hiring of staff and coaches. An active scholar, he has published several books, including The History of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics, written during a sabbatical in 2005.

2008 WOMEN’S BASKETBALL TEAM

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F E AT U R E

ABOLISHING M O D E R N - D A Y S L AV E R Y BY APRIL CONN ’16, JENNIFER MELTON ’08 AND MELANIE VOGEL

Fierce women’s advocate and justice-seeking powerhouse Dr. Sandra Morgan MA ’08 is known locally and recognized globally for her expertise in combatting human trafficking and working to end violence against women and children. Thanks to an appointment by the White House to serve as a Member of the bi-partisan Public-Private Partnership Advisory Council to End Human Trafficking, she’s poised to make unprecedented strides in the fight to end human trafficking. “I am honored to have been selected to serve among true advocates and changemakers as we come together in the fight to end human trafficking,” said Dr. Morgan. “Prevention cannot happen without research, education, advocacy and collaboration as we fight for the dignity, justice and freedom of exploited individuals.” The new appointment is an extension of Dr. Morgan’s work as director of Vanguard University’s Global Center for Women and Justice (GCWJ), which has provided training and resources enabling leaders to promote justice for women and girls for more than 15 years. Today, the GCWJ partners with global, regional and local partners to enhance anti-trafficking and victim-centered capacities by training community leaders, healthcare professionals, law enforcement and justice officials. VA N GUAR D

“Supporting and empowering women has been part of

with Doctors of the World in Greece, serving as

Vanguard’s DNA since long before I came along,” said Dr.

Administrator of the Orange County Human Trafficking

Morgan, whose Ending Human Trafficking podcast has

Task Force and leading research at the University of

listeners in 119 countries and is now housed in the Library

Duhok in Iraq that built capacity for women which

of Congress as a resource to practitioners and the public.

resulted in training to combat human trafficking. She has

“The Global Center [for Women and Justice] was started

been a tireless advocate for victims of exploitation, slavery

by Dr. Elizabeth Leonard and Dr. Sheri Benvenuti ’89 MA

and trafficking across the world, including South America,

’92, who were my mentors. The work we are doing today

Russia, Europe, Africa and the Middle East. Additionally,

is building on the foundation they created, increasing

she serves on the Orange County Commercial Sexual

education and advocacy directly related to the exploitation

Exploitation of Children Steering Committee, partnering

of women and children across broader audiences.”

with Child Welfare and Juvenile Justice.

Her experience serving exploited women, men and

Serving as co-chair on the Advisory Council is a unique

children goes beyond higher education. Dr. Morgan’s past

honor with unmatched influence and access to US leaders

work includes direct care as a pediatric nurse, volunteering

for Dr. Morgan. “William Wilberforce [a British politician

DR. MORGAN JOINS TEN OTHERS SELECTED BY PRESIDENT TRUMP TO SERVE A

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TWO-YEAR TERM ON THE ADVISORY COUNCIL, A BIPARTISAN MANDATE THAT ENSURES US GOVERNMENT POLICIES AND PROGRAMS USE BEST PRACTICES IN THEIR VICTIM PREVENTION, REHABILITATION AND SURVIVOR CARE EFFORTS.

who led the movement to abolish the slave trade in the 18th century] showed that change must begin with leaders at the top – and you can’t get much higher than the White House in terms of leadership in the US,” said Dr. Morgan. “Having access to engage such elite leaders will make lasting and meaningful impacts on ending human trafficking.” Concurrently, Dr. Morgan is working on a book about human trafficking with Wheaton Humanitarian Disaster Institute’s Shayne and Kim Yim to educate church communities about human trafficking. In addition, the GCWJ continues to offer the 12-unit, undergraduate AntiHuman Trafficking Certificate which has recently expanded the program from five to thirteen courses, though only four are required to achieve the certificate.

DR. MORGAN RECENTLY CELEBRATED ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF TWO ADJUNCT FACULTY MEMBERS WITHIN THE ANTIHUMAN TRAFFICKING CERTIFICATE PROGRAM: NICOLE JOHNSON ’09 WAS NAMED VANGUARD’S YOUNG ALUMNUS OF THE YEAR (PAGE 55) AND PRISCILLA SANTOS WAS NAMED INTERNATIONAL COORDINATOR OF THE SALVATION ARMY’S RESPONSE TO MODERN SLAVERY AND HUMAN TRAFFICKING AT THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIAL JUSTICE COMMISSION.

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SCENE

LADIES WHO LAUNCH BY DEVON JOHNSON

WHEN IT COMES TO LAUNCHING BUSINESSES DRIVEN BY MORE THAN A BOTTOM LINE, THESE THREE ALTRUISTIC ALUMNAE ARE LEADERS IN OUR PACK.

To owner and namesake of Cori Cook Floral Design Cori (Ballard ’06) Cook (pictured top left), selling wedding flowers is a small part of her role. “My job is floral design, but my passion is applying ministry principles to my business and empowering women in their professional journey,” said Cook, who has a BA in religion. “I’ve had five employees go on to start their own creative businesses after working with me – it’s a huge privilege to help them discover their purpose and learn how to integrate their love for the Lord into their work.” Cook found her creative spark in her early 20s and now challenges women to not see age or experience as barriers for professional growth. “There’s no reason you can’t learn something new at any age,” she said. “Learning is an invigorating part of life. It’s active trust; you’re never going to know until you try.” Desiree (Gaitan ’07) Buchanan (pictured middle left), also celebrates women through her socially conscious, sustainable and all-sizes-colors-and-shapes-matter clothing company, Poplinen, which opened in 2019. The ethos for Poplinen is an amalgam of knowledge gained in a social entrepreneurship course at Vanguard, as a mentor for high school students and while working at several startup companies that value sustainability and social responsibility. Buchanan’s experience allowed her to, “feel like [she] finally had the confidence to pursue something [she] was always passionate about.” Faith plays a big part in how Buchanan models business. “In an industry often driven by the bottom line and harmful practices, I make sure to prioritize putting people first and treating them with kindness and respect,” she said. These words rang true during the COVID-19 pandemic when Buchanan began making, selling and donating face masks through Poplinen using a one-for-one model: for every mask sold, Poplinen donates one to the Downtown Women’s Center in Los Angeles. “Poplinen's main objective is being a vehicle for good,” said Buchanan. “In this time of COVID-19, pivoting to reusable, 100% cotton non-medical face masks for our customers was crucial for business, but I also wanted to ensure we could turn this into an opportunity to help protect the vulnerable in our community.” Listening to and trusting God are core tenets of leadership to Carly Williams ’10 (pictured bottom left), owner of Carly Rae Weddings and Primary Petals Direct, who started her wedding planning business as a free service for friends in need. “It really all started out of a place of just saying ‘yes,’” Williams said. “The Lord just continued to bring me clients. It’s His business; I just listen, pray and stay grounded in Him.” VA N GUAR D

Her advice to women in business? “Go for it and know that you’re valuable and worth the risk. Don’t let someone else’s opinion shape the direction of your life.”

EXPLORE

California, both Lucy and George taught in Garden Grove and then in Saddleback Valley for the next 25 years. A dedicated teacher with a servant’s heart, Lucy also invested in the students at Vanguard by serving on the Alumni Board for many years. Lucy’s love for SCC was infectious and was the reason Eloise chose to attend. A year later, Eloise

SISTERS UNITED IN E D U C AT I O N BY DEVON JOHNSON

Sisters and alumnae Lucy (Kopoian ’62) Stand and Eloise

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sister, and after graduation, taught in California and then in Texas. Her plans changed when the Lord called her and her husband, James Neely ’64, to take on something entirely new: to bring the Gospel to Iran. She then became a different kind of teacher. “My education degree opened doors in Iran,” said Eloise. “I taught a women’s Bible study for those who had Iranian husbands and also homeschooled my two children when the schools were shut down during the Islamic Revolution in Iran.”

(Kopoian ’63) Neely have spent most of the past 50 years

After 46 years serving in Iran, Lebanon and Europe,

across the world from each other but have remained

Eloise and Jim returned home to Texas. The sisters,

united in their passion for teaching.

Lucy and Eloise, celebrate being back in the same

Older sister Lucy was in the first cohort of graduates to

found herself in the same teaching program as her

receive both a bachelor’s degree in education and full

country, always staying in touch whether by phone or visits.

teaching credentials from Vanguard University, then Southern California College (SCC). She found work immediately after graduation as a teacher in the Garden Grove School District. After marrying George Stand, they moved back to his home state of Oklahoma where he received his degree in education. Then returning to

DID YOU KNOW? B OT H S I S T E R S , E QUI P P E D W I T H T H E S AM E DE GR E E F R OM VANGUAR D, F OLLOW E D T H E I R UNI QUE CALLI NGS T O S E RV E AT H OM E AND AB R OAD.

M Y TA K E

PRESERVING OUR LEGACY BY MELANIE VOGEL “Ask Pam Crenshaw.” These words ring throughout campus and in emails as Vanguard University staff and faculty seek answers, photos and historical context to support present projects and inform decisions for the future. Director of Library Services and faculty member Pam (Box ’92) Crenshaw has served at Vanguard for more than 30 years and today is our resident archivist and keeper of memories. As she prepares for retirement later this year, she shares her five principles for preserving our legacy.

Remain a detective. “Most of my tasks begin with the question ‘can you find this?’ and my answer is always ‘I will try.’ Then the often long and arduous process of searching for the answer or photo or document begins – I have to be creative and sleuth-y.” Understand the value of the present. “Building an archive is about understanding what has value today. I am always encouraging staff and faculty to look at their files and photos and ask, ‘would I want to know this in 10 years?’ or ‘how could this help the University in the future?’” Archival items keep our mission front-of-mind. “When assessing the value of something, whether it’s an old brochure or flyer that someone found cleaning out a desk or footage from a new building opening, it’s important to understand how that item shows what we valued during that time. That’s essential in making sure we stay anchored in our identity as time goes on.” Receive everything. “Understanding something’s value is a skill that’s developed over time, so we will never turn away submissions from current or past faculty, staff or students. If you find something that might have future value, send it over to the archives and we’ll determine whether we want to keep it or not.” Embrace the never-ending work. “Maintaining the archive for an institution that’s 100 years old is not easy or simple work; the tasks literally pile up and you've got to figure out what is the most important thing to do at the moment. One day that might be cataloging new arrivals and another it could be sorting through our hundreds of thousands of photos to find the one that was requested. We embrace the work completely.” VA N GUAR D

C R E N S H AW ’ S FAV OR I T E I T E M I N T H E AR CH I V E I S A PE N C I L D R AW I N G OF H U L D A H N EE DH AM T H AT WAS S K E T C H E D B Y H E R B R OT H E R N E A R LY 100 YE AR S AGO.

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C E L E B R AT I N G T H E V I S I O N A RY I M AG I N AT I O N A N D E N T R E P R E N E U R I A L S P I R I T T H AT C H A M P I O N S VA N G UA R D â&#x20AC;&#x2122; S F U T U R E .

IN T HIS SE C T ION 38 2019 PRESIDENT’S

CIRCLE MEMBERS:

Honoring dedicated donors who are making a profound impact at Vanguard.

40 IMPROVING

STUDENT EMPLOYABILITY:

Vanguard’s Career Services team restructures resources to support students as national unemployment rates rise.

LIVING WELL: NOURISHING OUR COMMUNITY: One student leads the charge to understand, articulate and solve food and resource insecurity.

ENGINEERING THE LOCAL ECONOMY: An integral part of the region’s social and economic fabrics, Vanguard is improving the well-being of OC.

A SCORE ABOVE: Jackie Gutierrez ’20 leverages years of mentorship, endless tenacity and personal convictions to reach her career goals.

49 CONTINUING EDUCATION:

VA N GUAR D

Dr. Renea Brathwaite channels his passion for learning as he takes the helm of Professional Studies.

2019 MEMBERS T H E P R E S I D E N T ' S C I R C L E I S A G R O U P O F D O N O R S D E D I C AT E D T O M A K I N G A P R O F O U N D I M PA C T AT VA N G U A R D U N I V E R S I T Y.

DONORS

Daniel '93 and Kristine de Leon, Jr.

Richard and Irene Israel

Michael Moderow Mary Beth Molnar

Susan Abbott

Thomas DeMars

Rosemary Jackson '84

Brian and Erin '02 Donovan

Randall and Donna '78 Moon

Jonathan '88 and Karla '91 Allbaugh

Matthew '10 and Kimberly '10 Jacksteit

Phil '55 and Marlene Dunaway

Peter and Engelina Jansema

Larry '86 and Laura Allbaugh

Chris Dunkel '04

Jon Jezierski

Jean '79 and Sandra '08 Morgan

Anonymous

Bill Dunlap

Kim Johnson and Mike Fecht

Jeffrey and Karen Armour

Bruce '90 and Christy '91 Durkee

Robin John '04

Jake and Laurie Easton

Stanley and Ann Jones

Ed and Dixie Arnold Maria Avila Hugo and Irene Aviles Victor and Jacquelyn Baldi Brett '01 and Melony Barber Fred and Sharla Barlow Kimberlee Barnett Robert '65 and Ruth '65 Bayley Michael '81 and Faith Beals Larry Belau '72 James and Judy Bergman Linda Bertone Britney Bladel '04 Donald '52 and Evelyn '49 Boyce Monica and Greg Brislawn Marty Burbank and Seon Chun-Burbank Jack and Carolyn '96 Burns Susan Burt Sheila and Patrick Buttes Ruth Campbell Fenton and Mary Carey The Curt Carson Family Shree Carter '90 Steve '88 and Lisa '89 Castle Randy '85 and Kathy Conner Eoin and Lettie '76 Cowie Stephen '77 and Pamela '92 Crenshaw Cherie Dale David Davis and Angela '97 Carlson-Davis

Chip '05 and Lisa '02 Espinoza Kenneth Fait The Family of Coach Ted Browne Winton '65 and Shirley '65 Felt Kyle Ferguson '95 Trish and Chip Fisher Robert '08 and Jennifer '08 Foster Vonnie Franks '65 Brian and Betsy '02 Furukawa Ron and Jean Galey Tessa Gilton '07 Robert and Janis Glaus Marilyn Godfrey Lara Grady The Fitzgerald Grawburg Family Gary and Sonja Gray Rich '78 and Coni '79 Guerra David '76 and Lisa '77 Gutel Wesley and Polly Hale Cindy Hanson Mark '85 and Cindee Heath Natalie Heath '16 Paul Heath '55 Ronald and Rowena Hebert Rachel Heuser Rush and Linda Hill Tommy and Amy '04 Hilliker Bill and Gwyn Hoyt Dean '60 and Claudia Hundsdoerfer

Nicole Johnson '09 S. Michael Joseph David and Jean Kaiser Kendall '90 and Kristina Kasper William and Janette Kassis Angus and Traci '88 Kennedy David and Faith Kim Wendy Kliewer '80 Lisa Knuppel Robert and Nancy Kuppenheimer Janet Landstrom Alan and Emily Latta Xiuling Li '07 Bonnie and John Livingston Karen Lorenz Gary Mack James and Cheryl Madden Catherine Manes '73 John and Ronda Martin Richard and Kari Mason Jeff and Bethany McDaniel Justin '98 and Joelle '00 McIntee

Ray and Sandra Moran

Leonard '67 and Nevelyn '65 Morris Jeremy '97 and Donna '96 Moser Jeff '88 and Kendra Motske James and Michele Muth Sharon Mutschler '97 in memory of Kent Mutschler '65 Sergio '10 and Janice Navarrete Robert and Bernarda Neal Roger and Gloria '67 Needham Ross '08 and Laura '08 Nelson Michael '68 and Mary Ellen Newcomb Elena Nipper '96 Ronald '69 and Theresa '70 Nipper David '07 and Adele Oddo Ryan and Johanna Oddo Dale and Joni Oquist German and Nicole Ospina Erik '01 and Jenny Paulson Lori Peck Karen Pederson Douglas '76 and Myrna '95 Petersen

Ryan McNamara

Michael '85 and Michelle '85 Peterson

Howard and Carolyn McOwen

Richard and Donna Phebus

Donovan '99 and Christina '98 McReynolds

William and Patricia Podlich

Barry and Karen Meguiar

Ludmila Praslova

David and Darrellyn Melilli James and Bonnie Melton Alex and Pamela Metherell

Judith Posnikoff Tom and Becke Prince Linda Prinn Ray '03 and Judy '03 Rachels

Cecil '84 and Liesel '84 Miller

Kimberlee Davis

David Hunt '86 and Talitha Poulson-Hunt '88

Donn and Judith Rediger

Bill and Gail Mock

Morgan and Sandra Davis

Emmanuel Hyppolite '11

Karen and Joe Moderow

Evan '03 and Shannon '03 Regenstreif

EXPERTISE

MEMBERS OF THE PRESIDENT'S CIRCLE GIVE$1,000 OR MORE EACH CALENDAR YEAR, ACCELERATING THE MISSION AND VISION OF THE UNIVERSITY. LEARN MORE AND BECOME A MEMBER TODAY AT VANGUARD.EDU/CIRCLE.

Barbara Regosin

Elizabeth Weber '11

Nations Church Los Angeles

Frederick Reiser '08

Keith and Stacey Webster

Carl and Christine '15 Renold

Ed and Cindy Westbrook

New Hope International Christian Center

Harvey Rider

Ken and Shirley Westbrook

Newbreak Church

In-N-Out Burger

Phillip '64 and Sharolyn '65 Robinette

David and Mae Wheeler

Newport Mesa Church North Hills Church

James L. Stamps Foundation

Glenn and Jill '84 Robinson

Jack and Jerre White O. James '60 and Patricia White

Northeast Assembly of God Peoples Church

William and Alma '83 Williams

The Law Office of Bruce R. Durkee, APC

John Wilson

Ridgecrest Calvary Assembly of God

Lewis A Kingsley Foundation

Michael '83 and Diane '83 Wilson

San Fernando La Trinidad Church

Sandy Wilson '99

Santa Ana Templo Calvario

Gary '98 and Debora '95 Wondercheck

SoCal Network AG

Nick and Rhonda Sciortino

David '85 and Margot '85 Woodworth

Spring Valley Faith Chapel

Ryan '95 and Lori '97 Seidel

William and Barbara Yingling

Thomas Shirey '83

Earle Zucht

John '95 and Kimberly '01 Rogers Jacqueline Anderson and Steven Rose Glenn '75 and Barbi '74 Rouse Kristina Sachs Michelle Sanchez '99 Jaime Saul Hong Melody Schultz

Charles and Sue Shorter Phillip '67 and Deborah '67 Sloan Hugh Smith '82 Craig '74 and Joy Snider Brenda Springer '99 Bonni and Dave Stachowiak Paul and Gail Stankan James and Helen Steinkamp Anita Dorsey Stine '84 and Ken Stine Philip and Yolanda '69 Struyk The Styffe Family Michael and Nicole '95 Suydam Thomas and Karen Taillon Donald and Elizabeth Tarbell Bart and Deborah Thomsen Marcia Tilchin Marilyn Tradewell

CHURCHES Aldersgate United Methodist Church Bakersfield First Assembly of God The Bridge Church California City New Life Assembly of God Calvary Murrieta Clovis First Assembly of God El Centro First Assembly of God Elsinore First Assembly Fresno West McKinley Assembly of God General Council Assemblies of God Glad Tidings Church

Ray '74 and Carol Umbaugh

Hawthorne New Life Community Church

Ronald Van De Pol

Imperial Faith Assembly of God

James and Kearin Van Lare

Lakewood Life Center Church

South Coast Christian Church Springville Lighthouse Chapel Victorville First Assembly of God

F O U N D AT I O N S & O R G A N I Z AT I O N S American Honey Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. Assemblies of God Foundation AT&T External Affairs Avila's El Ranchito Restaurant Bank of America Corporation Bon Appetit Management Company BYCO Management Trust California USA Wrestling Inc ClearMedia Promotions Council for Christian Colleges & Universities Edison International Elite Ideas, Inc. Farmers & Merchants Bank

The Hugh & Hazel Darling Foundation Hunter Family Trust

John H. Grace Foundation

Lilly Endowment, Inc. Marvin "Buzz" Oates Charitable Foundation Mesa Water District Morgan Stanley Moss Adams LLP Musick Peeler National Christian Foundation California NextStep Coaching and Consulting Northern Arizona Youth Foundation, Inc. O. L. Halsell Foundation Oddo Family Foundation OneDigital Health and Benefits Orange County Community Foundation Personal Strengths Publising, Inc. Professional Floor Layers, LLC Rager Resources Group LLC Rediger Family Foundation Renaissance Administration LLC Reveille, Inc. Ringler Associates San Marcos, Inc Robinson B. Tradewell Rev Trust Saber Fitness Costa Mesa

Forde Consulting, LLC

Sanctuary

Golden Communications

Strike Out Slavery Systems Waterproofing

Richard '66 and Joy '67 Varnell

Living Word Assembly of God

Haskell & White LLP

Richard and Terri Voltmer

Long Beach Blessed Hope Assembly of God

The Hexberg Family Foundation

Trilogy Financial Services

The Hill Partnership Inc

The Waters Foundation

Fred '80 and Ruth Waugh

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CO-CURRICULAR

IMPROVING STUDENT E M P L O YA B I L I T Y QUESTION + ANSWER WITH DIRECTOR OF CAREER SERVICES JENNIFER “JJ” SMITH As national unemployment rates reach record-breaking highs, Jennifer “JJ” Smith and her Career Services team remain committed to supporting and equipping students as they enter the career field. First, and most obvious, things first: what does Career Services do?

How does being a Christ-centered institution affect Career Services?

Simply put, we help our students brand

It truly shapes everything we do. It shapes

themselves and prepare for and stand out in their

how we talk to our students and how we help

career fields. That looks different for each person

them understand that God has intentionally

because God’s calling on each is different, but

wired them a certain way. When they begin to

there definitely are some basics. Teaching how

understand how God created them, they learn

to build a resume, emphasizing the importance

what they can do with those gifts to serve Him in

of networking and providing opportunities to

any job they have.

do so, connecting them with mentors in their fields, demonstrating how to communicate professionally and helping them recognize and understand their strengths are our core functions.

What makes Vanguard students and alumni most employable? I find that the students who come to Vanguard have a great deal of integrity. When they

How has Career Services changed to accommodate students learning from home?

graduate, they stand out because they have

We adjusted our operations, but not our

integrous people. Our students are mentored,

mission. It was important that students – and

not just taught, by faculty. They are championed

our alumni – know we are still here for them.

by alumni and staff. They’re not numbers; we

We are working to provide solutions to the

know who they are by name and we care for

unique challenges this season presents, especially

them deeply. We feel called to see them grow and

for graduating seniors who are entering the

develop holistically – our students learn from

career field. We personally called each one to

that and it’s something they bring with them to

understand their needs and found ways to meet

the workplace.

been equipped and cared for by many equally

them, including offering extra direction and oneon-one career advising.

LEARN MORE + SUPPORT

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AR E YOU A S T UDE NT OR ALUM NUS LOOKI NG F OR A JOB ? I NT E R E S T E D I N H E LP I NG P R E PAR E S T UDE NT S F OR T H E I R CAR E E R S ? V I S I T VANGUAR D.E DU/ CAR E E R OR E M AI L CAR E E R S E RV I CE S @ VANGUAR D.E DU T O GE T S TART E D.

LIVING WELL: Nourishing Our Community BY MELANIE VOGEL

When recent graduate Ecstassy Mendoza ’20 and her classmates began to notice a rise in food and housing insecurity throughout their fellow students, they teamed up with Chair of the Sociology Department Dr. Stephanie D’Auria, Professor of Sociology Dr. Hien Park and Associate Dean of Student Success Amanda Lebrecht MA ’09 to understand and solve the problem. Just a few months later, The Living Well Community Resource Center opened with a mission to "help students, faculty and staff overcome the burdens of food and housing insecurities so that they are better able to focus on their pursuit of

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knowledge, cultivation of character and depth of faith.”

F E AT U R E

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PICTURED TOP LEFT: ECSTASSY MENDOZA ’20, DR. HIEN PARK AND AMANDA LEBRECHT. PICTURED BOTTOM RIGHT: MENDOZA AND DR. STEPHANIE D’AURIA.

To best understand and articulate

insecure), 48 percent were worried

donors, personal hygiene and

the community’s needs, the team

their food would run out before they

necessities like laundry detergent and

turned to a familiar academic tool:

received the funds to purchase more

CalFresh application assistance.

research. Dr. Park, in collaboration

and 55 percent said they could not

with Mendoza and Lebrecht,

afford to eat balanced meals.

developed a 30-question, online

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survey that was sent to undergraduate

students in November 2019. Of the 1,035 students who participated, an alarming 63 percent stated they have experienced food insecurity (with 38 percent being somewhat food insecure and 25 percent being severely food

“Living Well ensures community members living on and off campus

A social media-based fundraiser

have the resources they need to

helped launch The Living Well

perform their best, while contributing

Community Resource Center (Living

to their overall well-being,” said

Well), which opened January 13,

Lebrecht, whose department oversees

2020 and now offers fresh and

the Center. “It was brought to life by

frozen food donated and delivered

students who wanted to do more for

by Second Harvest Food Bank of

their peers, students who have faced

Orange County and individual

food insecurity and faculty and staff

who have seen the need for these

faculty or staff or attend cooking

services firsthand. Our goal is to

demonstrations by local chefs (in

ensure our community has food on

partnership with Bon Appetit) to

their tables and all of the essential

learn how to make nutritious meals

tools they need to succeed.”

with items available in the Center.

Lebrecht and her team continue to

Contactless donations and

develop plans to offer more at the

distributions enable the Living

Living Well. Students soon will also

Well to remain open during

be able to apply for transportation

the COVID-19 outbreak. Visit

assistance such as bus passes and

vanguard.edu/livingwell to learn

gas cards, access new or gently

more and support Living Well.

iPads donated by other students,

“…BUT WHOEVER DRINKS THE WATER I GIVE HIM WILL NEVER THIRST. INDEED, THE WATER I GIVE HIM WILL BECOME IN HIM A FOUNT OF WATER SPRINGING UP TO ETERNAL LIFE.”

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used textbooks, laptops and

LIV ING WELL’ S NAME WA S INS PIR ED B Y J OH N 4:14:

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ENGINEERING OUR LOCAL ECONOMY

SCENE

B Y D AV I D VA Z Q U E Z ’ 1 2

VANGUARD UNIVERSITY’S ENVIRONMENT OF CHRISTCENTERED SCHOLARSHIP AND SERVICE IS NOT CONTAINED TO 55 FAIR DRIVE; OUR STUDENTS, FACULTY, STAFF AND ALUMNI IMPACT THE ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL FABRICS THAT IMPROVE THE WELL-BEING OF OUR SURROUNDING COMMUNITIES. As we celebrate our centennial,

board members and educators,

this year also marks another

CEOs and non-profit executives,

significant milestone for the

doctors and healthcare providers.

University – seven decades in Orange County. For 70 years, Vanguard has made a tangible impact on the spiritual, social and economic fabrics of the Orange County community.

Vanguard’s presence in Orange County also impacts the economic well-being of our community. This is particularly important given the financial realities faced by governments at every level amidst

When Southern California Bible

the COVID-19 pandemic. A recent

College moved from Pasadena

economic study conducted by

to Costa Mesa in 1950, the

Econsult Solutions, INC concluded

population of Orange County

that Vanguard generates a total

was only 200,000 residents.

economic impact of $474 million

Today, with a population of over

in California, of which $211

3 million people, Orange County

million occurs within Orange

is the third largest county in

County and $76 million within

California and the sixth largest

the city of Costa Mesa. The report

county in the United States.

also found that Vanguard supports

As a University, we have equipped and launched generations of community leaders that have

a total of 3,200 jobs and $14 million in tax revenues to the State of California.

served across all sectors for the

As Orange County’s first four-year

common good in the Orange

college, I have no doubt that God

County community. This includes

called us to Orange County to

pastors and ministry leaders,

serve this community.

mayors and police chiefs, school

“RECENT DATA QUANTIFIES WHAT WE HAVE KNOWN ALL ALONG — VANGUARD PLAYS A CRUCIAL ROLE IN ECONOMIC, EDUCATIONAL AND SOCIAL GROWTH IN

PRESIDENT DR. MICHAEL J. BEALS

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THE COMMUNITY.”

EXPLORE

A SCORE ABOVE BY DEVON JOHNSON

Best-selling author Donald Miller said, “professional writers have the work ethic of professional athletes.” If that’s true, recent graduate Jackie Gutierrez ’20, is a gold medalist. In a word, Gutierrez is tenacious. Her signature companion, a 90s-era Walkman cassette player she found after hours of searching online, represents an embracing of hard work that fuels all she does – including the pursuit of her dream to write about inspirational women.

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G U T IE R R E Z D E VE L O P E D HE R B R A N D O F WO M E N K I C K B AL L S F R O M C O A CH IN G S E S S I ONS AND E N T R E P R E N E U R SHI P T R A I N I N G SH E R E CE IVE D T H R O U GH AN A P P R E N T IC E SH IP W I T H F L DW R K , A L O C A L IN C U B AT OR F OR B U S I N E S S L E A D E R S A N D STA RT U P S .

female athletes who lead on the field. A leader in her own right, Gutierrez became Vanguard University’s first communication major to earn a minor in journalism, a program offered through the English department. She also led her fellow students as vice president of communications for the Student Government Association (SGA) her senior year. When learning moved online during the COVID-19 pandemic, Gutierrez

“When I was 17, I told my uncle Joe that I wanted to write about strong and courageous women who dominate on the [soccer] field,” said Gutierrez. “His response was ‘then get some experience.’ He helped turn my passion into a plan that I pursued whole-heartedly.”

took tips from her athlete-heroes

Five years later, Gutierrez is a bona-fide sports journalist with contributions to countless platforms. She’s also the founder of Women Kick Balls, a media platform that showcases fierce

Joe Contreras ’20. “I told [students]

and leveraged her leadership role to model determination to her peers. “No one could have prepared us for having to leave campus early,” said Gutierrez, who leveraged social media to encourage and update students alongside SGA President that it’s okay to say, ‘this sucks,’ but that shouldn’t keep us from finishing strong and making an impact. What’s ahead is uncertain, but I’m not quitting.”

M Y TA K E

C O N T I N U I N G E D U C AT I O N BY MELANIE VOGEL In spring 2020, Vanguard University named Barbados-born Dr. Renea Brathwaite as dean for professional studies. As he begins to envision and plan for the future of our programs that support adults returning to complete their degrees, Dr. Brathwaite shares how God has equipped him for the role. “I've always had this wonder about the world and a passion to know, said Dr. Brathwaite. “It shaped how I came to have a relationship with the Lord – I wanted to know, explore and understand the complexities of our world and His existence, and I knew that didn’t have to mean sacrificing faith. I know God in my heart because I know Him with my mind. I knew something deep was there, not just intellectually, but experientially, because God is real.” That deep yearning for knowledge led Dr. Brathwaite down a path toward higher education and eventually the desire to teach. “Through much of my life, I’ve been frustrated by insufficient answers to my questions. So, I went to college in Trinidad and decided I would educate myself so that I would be prepared to educate others.” When funding for college fell through, though, Dr. Brathwaite had to drop out. Ten years

later, and thanks to stirring from God and the support of a mentor, he returned to college to finish his education. “The role of dean for professional studies is so important to me because my own life was immensely transformed by returning to school. But that process was challenging. I was a husband, father to two kids and a new immigrant to the U.S. when I returned,” he said. “So, I understand the obvious barriers – money and time – but I also understand the intangible ones – imposter syndrome, family insecurity and fear of failure. More importantly, I know the way to overcome those barriers, and it’s two-fold: 1) mentorship from people like me who have had similar experiences and 2) having faculty and staff who are dedicated to caring for each student and understanding and addressing their unique needs.”

D R . B R AT H WA I T E ’ S R E T U R N T O H I G H E R E D U C AT I O N EARNED HIM AN MA IN

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THEOLOGICAL STUDIES FROM ASSEMBLIES OF G O D T H E O L O G I C A L S E M I N A RY I N S P R I N G F I E L D , M O A N D A P H D I N R E N E WA L S T U D I E S : THEOLOGY FROM REGENT UNIVERSITY IN V I R G I N I A B E A C H , VA . H E A L S O H A S M O R E T H A N 15 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE WORKING IN HIGHER E D U C AT I O N A S FA C U LT Y A N D I N L E A D E R S H I P R O L E S W I T H I N A C A D E M I C A D M I N I S T R AT I O N .

CLASS NOTES 1960s

2000s MARK BROWN ’69 retired in sunny

MINDI (BRYANT ’04) AND

Arizona after 30 years in public schools

MICHAEL ’04 WINAKUR started a

in Washington State with ten of those

multi-ethnic church nearly four years

years as full-time Teacher Union

ago in Denver, CO. They have three

President working at local and state

beautiful children, Mason, Marek and

levels. He was a product of the era of his

Monet. Thanks to tools and resources

father, Dr. Paul Brown, Dr. Gordon Fee, Dr. Dennis McNutt

Mindi and Michael received at

and many others. He and Grandma Marsha are enjoying

Vanguard, including fellow alumni, along with their local

the "good life" and are still "rabble rousing" for Jesus.

community and lots of grace from God, the couple found restoration after a trying year. Today, they are walking in

1990s

grace and joy, and God is doing amazing things. JESLIN (OLSON ’07) married Scott DR. JORGE GALINDO ’92 is a

Jones in 2006 and they moved to

licensed psychotherapist specializing

Colorado. She spent seven years as a

in clinical and forensic psychology.

youth director at Faith Bible Chapel in

His work history reflects a variety of

Arvada, CO. Now she’s home with her

settings, including inpatient psychiatric

two boys, Ryaver James Warrior, born

hospitals, outpatient clinics, residential

in 2016, and Lainson Isaiah Bear, born

facilities for troubled youth, Orange

in 2019.

County Probation and USINS/US Border Patrol. For more than 16 years, Dr. Galindo has operated a full-time private practice which he shares with his wife. Strongly committed to serving God by serving his neighbor, Dr. Galindo is also a sworn peace officer for the Orange County Sheriff’s Department. Within this capacity, he holds the position of reserve captain wherein he has contributed nearly a decade of countless hours of voluntary service to his community.

available where books are sold. She is currently working on a second project and teaches sourdough bread baking in her hometown of Granite Bay, CA. She was featured on Channel 31 in Sacramento last summer highlighting her business, Living Bread Baker. The business name is inspired by the verse in John 6:35: “Jesus said to them, I am the bread of life...” Jenny and her husband Brandon also had a

SCHWARTZ was recently named

new baby, “James Bryan Prior,” in October of 2019. James

Foundation and is a volunteer at St. Jude’s No One Dies Alone program. She also is finishing up a children’s book on SPR I NG + SUMM ER 2 0 20

“Everyday Bread Baking” in December 2019, which is now

HEATHER (AMOROSI ’99) clinical director of Integrated Recovery

JENNY (HEATH ’07 ) PRIOR wrote a cookbook called

big emotions for little bodies. Heather has completed ten half marathons, has lead worship for years and now consults with organizations and private parties on vocal performance. She loves to travel and lives with her husband, Mark Schwartz ’96, and their two boys in the historical district of Orange, CA.

joins brother Aaron and sister DJ to make a family of five.

CLASS NOTES

2010s

J U ST M A R R IED AMBER (GERBITZ ’13) KNIGHT

HEATHER (MCGUIRE ’12) married Danny Sprague on

had a vision of opening a dual diagnosis

June 22, 2019 in Canby, OR.

addiction treatment program to help those in the local community who suffer from addiction and other mental health diagnoses. In 2015, she and her husband embarked on that journey and have now been operating Orange County Recovery for over four years. She came by to visit Vanguard and it brought back memories of her experience at Vanguard. Amber said, “I am so grateful for all I learned at Vanguard and for the help provided in accomplishing my dream. Thank you to all those at Vanguard who helped me on my journey.” After graduating in 2016, VANDELLA (JASSO ’16) WRIGHT spent a year serving on the mission field in 12 countries within South America with Adventures in Missions. After this life-changing experience, she felt called to Portland, OR and began working for a nonprofit organization. She met and married the love of her life,

JESSICA (MORGAN ’10) married Brandon Cross July 6, 2019 in Laguna Beach, CA. Two months later, the happy couple moved to Dallas, TX to start their new life together.

Garrett Wright, and shortly after adopted Tahoe Wright, their one-year-old Brittany Spaniel. Vandella now works in

KIERA (HUSBAND ’16) married

higher education at Warner Pacific University because of

Marshall Zellitti on May 1, 2020 in her

the influence Vanguard had on her life. She loves working

hometown of Chico, CA.

with students and watching the Lord work in their lives. CIERA (MILLER ’18) AND ADAM ’18 TYLER met at Vanguard in the halls of Huntington Hall in August

F U T U R E LIO N S

2015. The two were engaged in 2016, married in 2017 and graduated from

DEBBY (SAWCZUK ’00) and

Vanguard in 2018. Since graduation,

Nate Dodd welcomed their first child,

Adam has been working as a human

Emma Lynne Jubilee, on March 20,

resource executive team leader for Target. Ciera works in sales and marketing for a software company and as a

2020.

youth pastor. The two purchased their first home last year and welcomed new baby Alaya Rey on June 10, 2020. They are so incredibly thankful to Vanguard for bringing

KAYLI (COTTEN ’06) AND RYAN

them together and for their amazing education. They give

’07 HILLEBRAND welcomed

glory to God for all of His provision and blessings!

baby Caleb into the world on January 10, 2020.

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ASHLEY (IOANE ’09) AND KYLE ’08 STANSIFER celebrated 10 years of

IN M EM O R IU M

marriage in June 2019. Kyle completed Surgical Residency in Otolaryngology

PAUL HEATH passed away on August

(ENT) in May 2017 and is currently

29, 2018. Since Paul and his wife,

a private practice ENT surgeon in

Barbara, first met at Vanguard University

Omaha, NE. Ashley and Kyle welcomed

(then Southern California Bible College)

their third child and second son Tristen Hayes Stansifer in

in the 1950s, their hearts were aligned

October 2019.

with our mission to prepare young Christian leaders to fulfill God’s call on

BRITTANY (BANKS ’14) AND KYLE ’14 POPINEAU

their lives and to impact the world for His glory. Beyond

welcomed their first child, Levi Jackson, on April 21, 2019.

embodying this in their own lives, they have invested in our

Together, they are started Legacy Church in January 2020

campus and our students, furthering our mission for decades

in Tustin, CA and are thrilled to have their future Lion

to come. Read more about Paul and Barbara on page 18.

along for the ride! Levi is such a happy and sweet boy and is a joy to be around!

PAUL ODDO passed away on August 31, 2018. Paul and his wife, Angeline, had hearts for Christian education that resonated with Vanguard University’s mission to transform young men and women into Christ-centered leaders who advanced the Kingdom through their service and careers. Then Southern California College, Paul began his service in the 1950s as a member of the Board of Trustees and also invested time and his work resources to hand make and install intricate windows in Needham Chapel – a representation of the care Paul showed for Vanguard. Read more about Paul and Angeline on page 18. ARTHUR “ART” AND BETTY “B” PRICE joined our Father in Heaven on December 31, 2018 and June 15, 2019, respectively. There are very few people who have had

ANNIV ERSARY ALEX MATHEW ’94 and his wife celebrated their 20th wedding anniversary and currently reside in

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Frisco, TX. Their oldest son, Gabriel,

celebrated his 13th birthday and their daughter, Hope, celebrated her 10th birthday. They’re active in serving at their church. On a recent visit to Southern California, they

as vast and profound an effect on the Vanguard community than this powerful couple. Art, a Korean conflict veteran who thrived in his service to the Lord’s will, served with his wife Betty at Vanguard, then Southern California College (SCC), for more than 35 years. He and Betty were incredible servants to the students, faculty and staff and continued their ministry across the ocean by working with Jesus Frees Ministries in Kenya, Africa. Many in the Vanguard community found “second parents” in Art and Betty, who always attended University events together and were inseparable in their faith to further God’s plan.

enjoyed driving around Vanguard’s campus, seeing all the

B was an incredible host to many students that passed

changes and developments and catching up with other

through the doors of the Price home. Many students

Vanguard alumni.

resonated with the idea that the Price home was an extension of the SCC campus. Betty would serve peanutbutter-and-jelly sandwiches to students while comforting,

CLASS NOTES

praying and encouraging them in their studies. Betty was

Dr. Miranda’s vision, values and perspective were married

a champion of marriage and loved to sit with her morning

with Vanguard’s institution-wide commitment to success

coffee and talk with Art before and at the end of most days.

for all students when he founded the University’s Jesse

For many years, the “Price Room” in The Café on campus was the meeting place for many Vanguard events and student lunches and symbolized Art’s and B’s continuous hospitality and support for Vanguard and the Lord’s kingdom. Now located in the Waugh Student Center, the “Price Room” will continue to host private meals, events and student activities, all in the same level of hospitality and care for which the Prices were known.

Miranda Center for Hispanic Leadership with the help of prominent local business leaders who believed in the same vision. That community leadership, combined with Vanguard’s ongoing dedication to expanding opportunities for Latino students, helped make the Center a reality. Today, as Vanguard celebrates our 100th anniversary, it continues to build a greater capacity for emerging Latino leadership that is transforming the Orange County community, church and educational platforms.

ELMER BATES ’49 passed away on January 14, 2019. SHIRLEY M. CORNWALL ’46 passed away on April 2, 2019. SARAH M. (EDMONDS ’55) SMITH passed away in June 2019. REV. DR. JESSE MIRANDA ’66 passed away on July 18, 2019. Dr. Miranda was referred to by some as the “godfather of the Hispanic/Latino evangelical movement,” and the “granddaddy of U.S Latino Protestantism.” The son of a Mexican lumber mill worker and Spanish-descent

EVELYN BOYCE ’49 passed away on July 24, 2019.

mother with a third-grade education, he offered a unique vantage point. He was a leader who never polarized, but

GARY L. ARCHER ’07 passed away on August 2, 2019.

instead built bridges among ethnic, generational, religious and political entities. He began preaching at the age of 19

DONALD G. BOYCE ’52 passed away on

and went on to receive a bachelor’s degree from Vanguard,

August 21, 2019.

a master’s degree from Biola University and a master’s degree and doctorate from Fuller Theological Seminary. During his 81-year lifetime, he advised US presidents, served at the Latin American Bible Institute, oversaw 400 Latino churches and became chair emeritus of the National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference.

FRED CRUSE ’60 passed away on August 28, 2019. JEAN LAVONE DICKERSON HOLLO ’63 passed away on September 30, 2019. WILBUR L. BALCH ’44 passed away October 21, 2019.

But far beyond Dr. Miranda’s long list of notable accomplishments, he set a pivotal vision for higher

JOSEPH W. REYNOLDS ’61 passed away on

education in Orange County: take a whole-student

December 1, 2019.

approach. Dr. Miranda believed in developing wellLEWIS E. DAVIS ’74 passed away on Wednesday

and he wanted students to excel academically, spiritually,

December 31, 2019 in the presence of his wife of more

economically and civically. This vision has now become

than 40 years, Karen, at their home in Huber Heights,

a common methodology among many universities,

Ohio. Lewis is survived by his wife, son Wesley and dozens

cultivating seeds of greatness in generations of students.

of loving friends.

SEND US YOUR PHOTOS! WE’D LOVE TO SHOWCASE PICTURES OF YOUR NEW BABY, WEDDING OR ANNIVERSARIES IN CLASS NOTES. EMAIL YOUR UPDATES TO ALUMNI@VANGUARD.EDU.

VA N GUAR D

rounded Latino students, community citizens and leaders,

A L U M N I AWA R D W I N N E R S Honoring three graduates whose contributions enhance the University at the local, state, national and international levels, the 39th Annual Vanguard University Alumni Awards highlight the difference Vanguard graduates are making in the world.

ALUMNUS OF THE YEAR

JEFF MOTSKE ’88 Raised in California with Midwestern roots, Jeff attended Vanguard on a baseball scholarship, where he majored in business administration. He got a job straight out of college with a small mutual fund company doing retirement planning. As he watched the landscape of financial services, Jeff saw how disconnected most of his industry was from the real-life, everyday issues of Americans. In partnership with Kevin Mackintosh, they created Trilogy Financial in 1999 to bring together resources on financial, tax and estate planning for middle-class Americans. Jeff started Trilogy with the vision of improving his industry, a vision that is still guiding him today. Seventeen years after the inception of Trilogy Financial, he spearheaded the creation of Trilogy Capital, an RIA asset management firm that provides investing solutions for everyday Americans. He continues to bring real planning to real people through his book, “The Couple’s Guide to Financial Compatibility,” as well as his podcast, “The Jeff Motske Show.” He is also committed to creating the next generation of financial advisors, which can be seen in Trilogy’s development of multi-generational teams committed to providing clients seamless and top-notch service. Trilogy Financial proudly employs several Vanguard alumni. Jeff is also dedicated to giving back to Vanguard. In 2017, Jeff worked with his former Lions baseball teammates to help raise $850,000 to renovate and redesign the Dean Harvey baseball field, named for their former teammate and second baseman, who passed away in 2011 from a rare brain disease and was an influential member of the 1985 Southern California College World Series team. Today, Jeff is still very involved at Vanguard and sits on the Board of Trustees and Executive Team. He currently serves as chair of the Imagine Campaign, which raised funds for the new Waugh Student Center and continues to

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strengthen Vanguard's endowment. Jeff is also a regular guest speaker

at Vanguard, delivering motivational speeches to Vanguard’s incoming freshman and collegiate athletes. In addition, Jeff Motske has been featured in several nationwide publications including the Wall Street Journal, USA Today, Kiplinger, Business Insider, Forbes and CEO Forum Magazine as well as appeared on a myriad of local and nationally broadcast television programs including Fox and Friends, Hallmark’s Home and Family show as well as the Steve Harvey Show.

A L U M N I AWA R D S

YOUNG ALUMNUS OF THE YEAR

DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD

REV. RICH GUERRA ’78

NICOLE JOHNSON ’09

Pastor Rich Guerra currently serves as 12th Superintendent

Nicole Johnson received

of the SoCal Network of the

a bachelor’s degree in cultural anthropology from Vanguard in 2009 with an

Assemblies of God. He earned a BA in biblical studies at

emphasis on women studies and human trafficking.

Vanguard, then Southern California College, in 1978. He then

She furthered her education with a master’s degree

went on to complete the MA program in church leadership

in advanced study from the University of California,

there in 1987. Rich has served on the Board of Trustees

Irvine in Social Ecology; Law, Criminology and

at Vanguard for over 20 years. His wife, Coni (Sjelin ’79)

Society. Her master’s degree capstone research

Guerra, also graduated from Vanguard as well as their three

focused on the embedded biases of law enforcement

children, Ryan (’05), Andrew (’03) and Lindsay (’08). They

while investigating sexual-based crimes and human

have six grandchildren, Jacob, London, Simon, Everly, Raelyn

trafficking. Nicole has been employed as a federal law

and Matilda.

enforcement officer for over eleven years, specializing in investigating federal violations of domestic and international human trafficking, intellectual property rights, and cultural property, art and antiquities.

In 1984, he was chosen to serve as the youth ministries director for the Southern California District where he led the District from 16th to first in the nation for Speed-TheLight and traveled across the county as a conference speaker.

During Nicole’s career, she has been named by her

He went on to join the staff of Capital Christian Center in

agency as subject matter expert in human trafficking

Sacramento, CA, and served under Pastor Glen Cole as singles

and travels nationally and internationally to train

pastor leading one of the largest singles groups in America.

non-governmental organizations, law enforcement agencies, and international delegations made up law enforcement, prosecutors and judges. She instructs on human trafficking basics, investigative best practices, evidence recovery and law enforcement self-care. Nicole has also worked extensively in combatting counterfeit pharmaceuticals and prosecuting those who put consumers at risk for serious injury or death. Other areas of investigative interest and experience are combatting the looting and illicit trade of cultural artifacts, trade-based money laundering and international training and development.

Rich and Coni served as senior pastors of Trinity Life Center in Las Vegas, NV from 1990 to 1995, where they helped transform a church that is now reaching its community for Christ. Rich served as the senior pastor of Visalia First Assembly of God for 12 years. Under his leadership, the church saw tremendous growth and relocated their worship center, elementary school and church offices to a 40-acre (Akers) campus, while retaining their five-acre (Walnut) campus for the preschool, junior high and senior high schools. The Miracle League of Visalia baseball field (for special needs children) is located on the Akers Campus and, at the time, was the only one of its kind on the west coast. Rich served as

Nicole also is an adjunct professor in the Global

an executive presbyter for the Southern California District of

Center for Women and Justice at Vanguard,

the Assemblies of God prior to being elected as the assistant

instructing a course in the Anti-Human Trafficking

superintendent in April 2007. It was at the District Council in

Certificate program.

April 2010 that he was elected to his current position. VA N GUAR D

FA C U LT Y N O T E S Faculty member DR. ANDREW STENHOUSE

DR. KATHERINE TONG and

presented his research paper at the Society for Industrial-

colleagues were awarded a five-year

Organizational Psychology poster session. Attendees were

grant with the National Institute

eager to share how the work environment impacted their

of Health (NIH) for their project

home life. While they largely shared the negative impact

entitled “INSPIRE: Indigenous

that work had on their homes, all were intrigued to

Samoan Program to Initiate Research

learn how much a healthy work environment can have a positive impact in the home. DR. BONNI STACHOWIAK, associate professor of business and management and the dean of teaching and learning, recently published a new book, The Productive Online and Offline Professor, through Stylus Publishing.

Excellence.” Their goals are to eliminate cancer disparities and enhance research capacity in the resource-constrained community of American Samoa. This is the first NIH grant at Vanguard. She also co-authored “Research Capacity Strengthening in American Samoa. Fa’avaeina le Fa’atelega o le Tomai Sa’ili’ili i Amerika Samoa,” which is in review for The British Journal of Social Work.

Read an excerpt on page 7.

On November 25, 2019, DR. RICHARD PARK presented his

DR. LUDMILLA PRASLOVA,

paper “The Academy, Imagination

associate director of institutional

Formation, and Social Media” at the

research John Kim and Phillip Newlin

American Academy of Religion Annual

’16 published the inaugural California

Meeting. Held jointly with the Annual

Association for Institutional Research (CAIR) report. The report was released through the 2019 CAIR conference. The White House appointed DR. SANDRA MORGAN MA ’08, director of the Global Center for Women and Justice, to a two-year term as a member of the Public-Private Partnership Advisory Council to End Human Trafficking. The Public Private Partnership Advisory Council was established by Senate Bill 1312, a bipartisan legislative mandate of the reauthorization of the Trafficking Victims Protection Act. The Advisory Council ensures US government policies and programs use best practices in their victim prevention, rehabilitation and aftercare efforts. Dr. Morgan advocates

Meeting for the Society of Biblical Literature, this conference brings together more than 10,000 scholars and practitioners in the field of religious and biblical studies. This year the conference was held in San Diego, CA. DR. MARY WICKMAN co-authored “Direct-Acting Oral Anticoagulants and Warfarin-Associated Intracranial Hemorrhage Protocol Reduces Timing of Door to Correction Interventions,” which was printed in the Journal of Neuroscience Nursing and “Instrument Validation: Hospital Nurse Perceptions of Meaning and Joy in Work,” published in the Journal of Nursing Measurement.

SPR I NG + SUMM ER 2 0 20

for victims and encourages a victim-centered, trauma-

informed approach to national anti-trafficking efforts. Read more about Dr. Morgan’s appointment on page 28.

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