A GIFT OF HOPE

by Eryn Conyers ’16

Ten women, holding tight to their caps, walked through the sunny yet windy prison yard where the energy and excitement were palpable. The graduates in their newly dawned regalia with smiles from ear-to-ear, paraded down the sidewalk with fellow inmates on either side cheering them on with high fives and signs of congratulations. The short but meaningful walk led them to the chapel full of proud faculty, administration, family and visitors awaiting the arrival of the class of York University graduates.

On May 1, the commencement ceremony marked the second class of students to complete the Second Chance Educational Program, a partnership between YU and the Nebraska Correctional Center for Women (NCCW). The program offers women who are incarcerated, some for a few years – some for a lifetime, the opportunity to earn an associate’s degree through four years of part-time study.

“We just kept getting the radio call, ‘They’re ready. They’re ready,’” opened Angela Folts-Oberle, Warden of NCCW as she addressed the graduates thanking them for their patience on the long-anticipated day.

“I’m pretty lucky to be a part of this day where we celebrate the hard work and dedication of these ten graduates,” Folts-Oberle went on. She expressed her appreciation for the partnership between the prison and the university and noted that programs like these were rare. “Education is a key component to success for these individuals. We all must continue to learn no matter where we are on our journey.

Education extends well beyond what we learn in books and it makes dreams come true.”

Professor Terry Seufferlein, program director and professor of Bible, reminded the graduates of four key lessons they learned in their most recent course. Focusing on the importance of their story, “You can’t control your story,” began Seufferlein. “All you can control is your reaction and your choices in the story.”

He continued by saying, “You have to own your story. When a person finds herself in a bad story what does she do? She picks up the pen and writes a new chapter. She changes the story, and tells a better story. Because if you don’t take ownership of your story someone else will. Part of getting an education and a degree is taking ownership.”

“The third lesson is, the point of the story is not the ending. What is the point of the story?” he asked. “The journey”, the students answered confidently. “So now you have a college degree, but that degree doesn’t make you a better person. What you had to do to get that degree, the work, the effort, the time you struggled together that molded and shaped you to become a better person.” Seufferlein said.

While holding back tears, he concluded by recognizing that there are certain stories we can’t write alone. “Several years

Today, I’m known as a child of God, a preacher’s kid, a mother, a great friend, a survivor and a YU graduate.”

One of the most powerful stories was shared by Jo Helen Robertson-Williams who said she found herself in the presence of a judge at just 8 years old. “I don’t remember everything he said but I remember one word. He said I was incorrigible,” said Jo Helen. “I was a bad kid but I was also studious so I looked it up. Incorrigible is defined as ‘having a bad habit that cannot be changed.’ Imagine an 8-year-old little girl being told by an authority that she couldn’t change. I bought in, I lived it and my family suffered through it.”

She described how the Second Chance program helped her realize her true worth. “They saw me and not my circumstances. They saw purpose where I saw pity. They saw value where I saw trash. We see who we are right now and this is who we were meant to be. We now realize our personal value and understand how we can enrich and uplift everyone we come in contact with.”

She added her gratitude for forward-thinking people willing to step outside of the box to provide an education to women who most would deem unworthy. “I don’t know where that judge is now or what happened to him. At this point, I don’t care, because he didn’t see today. Almost four years ago I ago this was just a dream of mine, and now you’re a part of my story and I’m honored to be a part of yours. When we work together we write a better story.” didn’t see today. No matter the labels that society uses to define us, after today they’re going to have to add “college graduate” to that.”

Several graduates were given an opportunity to share their thoughts on this momentous occasion.

Chelsey Cook, introduced as the youngest of the group, began with a quote from Maya Angelou, “You may not control all the events that happen to you but you can decide not to be reduced by them.” Cook shared how she and her fellow classmates persevered through life’s struggles to get to this point. “I’m very grateful to have this gift to shift my family’s paradigm,” she said. “We have not let our past define us, not even being formerly known as our worst mistake. Today, we will be known as York University graduates.” The entire audience erupted in cheers and applause.

She went on to talk about how she had originally started the program for her parents, wanting to make them proud. She said her “why” kept her going even when it was hard. “But today, I can say I did it for myself too,” said Chelsey. “I have proved myself. I am proud of myself. Nothing has stopped me from getting this degree.

The last graduate to speak was Kimberly Faust also expressing her gratitude for the program, focusing her attention on the professors. “The professors poured into us in such an incredible way, not only as a group but individually. They gave not only the gift of education but the gift of hope, grace and compassion and the true gift of a second chance. They cared about us and nurtured us. They knew what we were capable of before we ever did,” said Kimberly.

“Each professor gave us a clear picture of how to view ourselves and others through the eyes of Christ,” said Kimberly. “Romans 12 says love should be sincere and to honor one another above ourselves. We saw that in every professor we had.”

She shared how her friend, Niccole, a YU graduate of the first cohort, encouraged her to join the program and challenged her to earn all A’s as she once did. “Challenge Accepted,” laughed Kimberly who completed the program with a 4.0 g.p.a.

Kimberly spoke of not knowing she would be a ‘freshman’ in her fifties and shared how her late parents always dreamed that she would earn a college degree. “Unfortunately I was unable to fulfill their dream while they were still here but I know that today they’re looking down on me smiling knowing that I finally achieved that goal. And I achieved that goal the same year my son graduates as well,” she shared with a teary smile.

“In May of 2001, I was sentenced here, but now York University has given me a new memory for May 1st. The most incredible thing about learning through York University is that it is not only an educational experience but it is a spiritual one too. We will always be honored to be graduates of a Christ-centered university.” She closed with a quote from Michelle Obama, “You are practicing now who you are becoming.”

Five of the first cohort graduates from 2019 were able to be in attendance. The alumni included Jennifer (Kerby) Dabbs, Tamara Kulm, Seeletter Livingston, Bridgette Mann and Latoya Nicole Ross. Jennifer, who also works part-time for the Second Chance program, graduated two days prior with a master’s in global and organizational leadership from YU.

Sarah Cullen, Brittany Two Two-White Eyes and Jocelyn M. Nordin were also given the opportunity to share their gratitude and quickly thanked each of the professors and volunteers. Sarah shared, “I’ve been forever changed by my time with each of you. Your impact reached far beyond the classes that you taught us. We would like to express our appreciation to all the professors who selflessly and intentionally chose to come out here and pour into us. York University and each of you hold a special place with us. We thank God for this opportunity and all the people He uses in our lives.”

At the conclusion of the speeches, Professor Terry Seufferlein called each student to the front to receive their diploma from President Smith. Each graduate held tightly to the blue folder representing hope and a better future.

The celebration continued after the ceremony with a reception but not before many hugs and congratulations from family and visitors, several who had traveled long distances to join the graduates on their special day. The sweet reunions of families and friends, professors and students, topped the afternoon off perfectly.

This chapter may be over, but it definitely isn’t the end of the story for the YU class of 2023: Chelsey Cook, Sarah A. Cullen, Kimberly S. Faust*, Shavontae K. Green, Lora Lee McKinney*, Jocelyn M. Nordin, Brittney Pryce, Jessica Reid, Brittany Two Two-White Eyes,

Jo Helen RobertsonWilliams. n

*Graduated with a 4.0

The next cohort of students begin reduce students' costs, the Second Chance Educational Program is underwritten by York University in part by private donations along with a Vocational Life Skills grant from the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services. York University seeks ongoing funding and donations for the program.

A Life On Loan From God

by Steddon Sikes ’84

Michael J. Rush ’84 passed away peaceably on January 7, at the age of 59, more than twenty years since his debilitating aneurysm. He was surrounded by his family when he passed, and as word spread of his death, tributes to his life rose from the four corners of the world.

“Rusher,” as his classmates called him back in the 80s, a rambunctious teen from Colorado Springs, Colo., was a stranger to none. His college activities included being the Brown House RA, a sophomore officer in student association, president of Koinonia, a member of the band Reflections and then in the traveling group Friends, in which he toured Christian camps across the country. He loved people… and they knew that he loved them.

Katie (Klutts ’01) Hayden, who was part of York’s campus ministry leadership team said, “You know the quote from Maya Angelou: I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel. That FULLY describes Michael J. Rush! I cannot remember ALL the many things he said, lessons he taught, or skills I learned from… most of which make me smile and laugh. What I do remember is the way he could see someone, see their gifts, see the light they had — no matter how dim, and how he loved without question.”

Mike married Janet (Reno ’83) on June 9, 1984, and through their 38 years of marriage, transformed three active boys, Zach ’10, Caleb ’10, and Andrew ’14 into godly men. Their home was filled with love and laughter, maybe even shenanigans, and they made sure the welcome mat was always out for the many friends that came calling. They impressed on their sons that church life was a priority and were active members of the East Hill congregation in York.

In an encouraging social media post to one of Mike and Janet’s sons, Dr. Bill Pink ‘87, president of Ferris State University in Big Rapids, Mich., wrote, “What an extraordinary man! A lover of God, and a friend to everyone. He will live on through the many he touched, and he now gets to put away the imperfect human body for a much better one!”

Rush began his service at York University in 1986 as an admissions counselor and served 2 years as the director of admissions. He moved his growing family to Sacramento, Calif., in 1990 to take on the duties of a youth minister for the Winding Way Church of Christ. After a few years on the west coast, he loaded up his family and returned to York in 1994 to again work in admissions and began his dream of developing a campus ministry program. Raising the majority of his own support through a network of friends and churches, Rush became York’s first campus minister in 1995 and grew the program into a vibrant ministry.

“I was blessed to be a campus minister under Mike while at York,” said Traci (Doele ’01) Madole whose husband Matt is the youth minister at the Merrick Drive Church of Christ in Ardmore, Okla. “During that time he became a father-like example to me… The love he was able to show and give to others was absolutely phenomenal. He made anybody around him feel important.”

Like so many couples, Rush met with Matt and Traci for premarital counseling sessions and performed their wedding. The Madoles even named their middle son Drake Michael because of Rush’s impact on their lives. “I feel honored to be one of the many not just to be loved but to feel loved by Mike. My life is one where I usually blend in; he didn't allow that — he saw me.”

April 16, 2002, was a fateful day in the history of York University as Rush suffered a brain hemorrhage in his office. At the age of 38, the episode left him partially paralyzed and unable to return to his campus ministry duties. The gaping hole left by Rush was readily apparent during the following school year, and after only a few months of being without a campus minister, the administration received board approval to fully fund the position and conduct a national search for Rush’s replacement. To his delight, fellow classmate and friend Tim Lewis ’84 was hired to carry the torch, a role he served faithfully in for ten years. Today, thanks in large part to Rush’s kingdom vision, love for students, and commitment to the mission of the University, the campus ministry program continues as an integral aspect of the York Experience.

Joel Osborne ’00, who served as the assistant campus minister intern for two years under Rush and recently completed his 20th year as full-time missionary in Mito, Ibaraki, Japan, talked about the indelible mark Rush made on his life and the way he mentored and shaped him as a disciple of Jesus. He posted on Rush’s Facebook page, “I am so thankful that you helped me see how much Jesus loved others and how they were changed by that love. You loved us in the same way, and I hope I am doing the same. I look forward to seeing you whole and restored when Jesus gathers us all in eternity. Wait for me, I'll be there ready to introduce you to all of the people in Japan you've influenced indirectly.” n

On the day of Mike's celebration service, the East Hill church auditorium in York was filled with University alumni, friends, and family, with more than a thousand viewing online — a fitting tribute to Rush’s life. A life well lived. Scan to view service.

Algaier Continues The Legacy

by Jared Stark ’01

Sean Algaier, former York University student (98’-00’) is returning this summer to assume the vital role of campus minister.

Algaier brings significant ministry experience to his post having spent nearly 15 years in full-time ministry since leaving York including ministry positions at Overland Park Church of Christ near Kansas City, Mo., Airline Drive Church of Christ in Bossier City, La., Jenks Church of Christ in Jenks, Okla., and during the past 7 years at the Providence Road Church of Christ in Charlotte, N.C.

Algaier had this to say about stepping into the role, “I love York University! God allowed me to grow exponentially during my time as a student. I am very humbled and excited to return and begin work as the campus minister. I am committed to the call of God in my life. That call has led me and my family to York University. I can't wait to do life with all the students, faculty, and staff of YU!”

While a student at York, Algaier was a part of Soul Concern and the York College Concert Choir, under the direction of the “best director in the world - Dr. Clark Roush, whom I love dearly”, said Algaier. After his years at York, he was a student at Lipscomb University and began working and performing in the world of Christian music. Algaier spent time managing tours for popular artists Rachael Lampa, Nicole C. Mullen, and Toby Mac.

As a performer, Algaier has worked with Acappella Ministries on and off since 2002 and sang high tenor in the contemporary a cappella group, Watershed Worship. His time with that group opened doors for him to sing the national anthem for professional sports teams the St. Louis Cardinals and Seattle Seahawks. An experienced worship leader, Algaier has led worship

Quest. Sean has been a featured speaker nationally and was a contestant on season 8 of NBC’s “The Biggest Loser” in 2009.

Algaier replaces Vice President of Spiritual Life Dr. Sam Garner who took the lead minister position at the West Main Church of Christ in Medford, Ore., this summer.

York University president Sam Smith is excited to have Algaier step into the role as the University's next campus minister.

“Our search committee, composed of faculty and staff across campus, reviewed a deep pool of highly qualified applicants and unanimously recommended Sean. I am convinced that he will immediately connect with our students and build relationships across campus which support the mission of York University. As a former student, Sean loves this campus, the people, and the city of York. He was specifically impacted by Mike Rush as a student at York College and desires to impact lives as Mike did on our campus.

“Sean is a homerun hire! He is especially well known in the Southeast for his gifts in ministry and worship and plans to continue to lead worship at major youth conferences. When I was the campus minister at Lipscomb University, Sean was a transfer student I recruited to lead worship during our daily chapel. Now, 20+ years later, I have the opportunity to hire him again to do the same thing at YU in a much larger capacity. We are excited about his arrival on campus in August!”

Sean and Misty, his wife of 19 years, have 5 children: Sean "Greysen" (17), Ella (15), Jillian (13), and twins Joshua and Jeremiah (5). n

(l-r)

Dance

The dance team, coached by Bailey Davis, claimed the KCAC Championship in February, making them backto-back champions. York scored a 73.00 to take the championship, more than one point better than secondplace Kansas Wesleyan and ten points better than third place Bethel College. Riley Brown (SR/Lincoln, Neb.) was named 1st Team All-KCAC. Abbe James (JR/Edmond, Okla.) and Aubri Plummer (SO/Vichey, Mo.) were each named 2nd Team, while Olivia Monk (FR/ Rhinelander, Wis.) earned Honorable Mention. James was also named the team's KCAC Champion of Character.

TRACK & FIELD

York University Panthers had twelve NCCAA All-American performances at the National Christian College Athletic Association's Outdoor Track and Field Championships in Marion, Ind.

The men's team was once again lead by Jarod Belden (JR/ Ontario, Calif.) with a first-place finish in the decathlon followed up by a third-place finish in the pole vault. Just behind Belden, Jaden Beske (FR/Rhinelander, Wis.) placed second in the decathlon. Placing second and earning silver for the Panthers were Alphonse Jackson (JR/ Fort Smith, Ark.) – shot put and Connor Cogswell (SR/McCool Jct., Neb.) – hammer. The men's team finished sixth out of the 26 schools represented.

Makayla Dinkler (JR/Silver Lake, Neb.) and Kamrie Dillan (SO/Imperial, Neb.) propelled the women's team to a fifth place finish, both starting off the meet with second and third places finishes in the heptathlon. Dillan repeated as an All-American in the women's 4x400 relay with the team's second-place finish. The team also included Maria Geesaman (SR/Greeley, Colo.), Abigail Zaiger (FR/Harlan, Iowa) and Ty Irvin(JR/Fort Lauderdale, Fla.). Geesaman repeated as an All-American, taking second in the Steeplechase.

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