< PreviousIN WHAT MAY BE A FIRST FOR ADVENTIST publishing, Andrews University has released a small book containing only the biblical books of Daniel and Revelation, with study notes, in the form of a study journal, according to Andrea Luxton, president, and chair of the Andrews Uni- versity Press Board. Luxton said the publication, “The Great Prophetic Books of Daniel and Revelation: A Bible Study Journal,” became officially available to custom- ers the first of September. She said it is already receiving wide appreciation from church leaders and pastors who see its immediate usefulness for public evangelism, small group ministry and personal spiritual revival. “The world is changing rapidly and we are surrounded by uncertainty and anxiety. In that context the books of Daniel and Revelation provide both a needed frame of hope and the certain- ty that God will work out His purposes in this world,” Luxton said. “Thus, this little book is very timely. And Ellen White’s specific counsel about distrib- uting those parts of scripture in this form gives us extra confidence that this is an opportunity we cannot and should not miss.” Luxton said that more than 5,000 pastors in North America will receive the book over the next few months, with financial sponsorship from An- drews University, The Foundation for Adventist Education (established by the Zinke family), and the North American Division (NAD) Ministerial Association. “We see the immediate value of this little book for helping our members sharpen the essential prophetic focus of our faith,” said Ivan Williams, director of the NAD Ministerial Association. “And our pastors across this great divi- sion are in a good position to know how to use it in their churches, and in their outreach. So, we have been pleased to help make sure that each one gets a copy. They will take it from there.” And they already are. Ronald Knott, director of Andrews University Press, said pastors in two conferences that have just received the books have already ordered more than 2,000 copies for their churches and public evangelism. One of those conferences is already discussing plans to use 5,000 more for a major evangelistic event next year. The development of the book was inspired by comments Ellen White made in 1898 to John Harvey Kellogg, and again in 1902 to her son W.C. White, according to Knott. “She said that she had been ‘instructed that the prophe- cies of Daniel and the Revelation should be printed in small books, together with the necessary explanations, and should be sent all over the world.’ So that’s ex- actly what we’ve done, and are doing,” Knott said. “We will be content to be proven wrong, but up to now, we think this may be the first time that Adventist publishing has produced such a work.” The book is designed with the same manufacturing specifications as high-quality blank book journals. It fea- tures easy-to-read, two-color printing of the Bible text, high-grade paper for writing, cover foil stamping and round- ed corners, and a marker ribbon. “This really is a Bible study journal,” Knott said. “It is intended to make the study of these two books of the Bible a practical, beautiful and interactive experience.” The Bible text, using the New King James Version, appears on each left page. At the top of the right page, blank lines are provided for making notes or journaling. The bottom of the right page contains the relevant notes on the Bible text from the “Andrews Study Bible.” “We are particularly pleased to be able to use the excellent material from the ‘Andrews Study Bible,’” Knott said. “That great resource for the church was released exactly ten years ago, and so it is fitting that we could marshal that content into use for this product that is so relevant to our time.” “The Great Prophetic Books of Daniel and Revelation: A Bible Study Journal” retails for $14.99 and may be purchased in large quantities for major discounts. It is available from Adventist Book Centers (1-800-765-6955), Andrews University Press (800-467-6369) and online at universitypress.andrews.edu. Daniel/Revelation Bible study journal released Journal receiving wide appreciation from church leaders and pastors “... the books of Daniel and Revelation provide both a needed frame of hope and the certainty that God will work out His purposes in this world.” 10 —FOCUS Campus UpdateMore than 400 fresh ears of corn and 400 watermelons were given away to members of the Berrien Springs community IN ITS FOURTH ANNUAL CAMPUS-WIDE SER- vice opportunity, Andrews University hosted Change Weekend from Friday, Sept. 4, through Sunday, Sept. 6, 2020. Previous- ly holding Change Day, the University took the chance to adapt to COVID-19 pandem- ic circumstances while still upholding its commitment to service. Over the course of the event, more than 250 students took part in the service projects offered by various organizations on- and off-campus. José Bourget, University chaplain, ex- plains, “Andrews University cares about our community. A pandemic doesn’t change that, it simply means we shift things around a bit. Change Weekend is doing things dif- ferently while our heart for our neighbors continues to beat strong.” On Friday, Sept. 4, the University part- nered with the Red Cross to host a blood drive in Johnson Gym. A participation re- quest for five individuals from each campus department was sent out, and all 70 spots were filled with willing volunteers. On Sunday, Sept. 6, Andrews University worked with local farms to host a drive- through food giveaway at the Berrien Springs Trinity Lutheran Church. The col- laboration aimed to assist members of the community affected by COVID-19, offering fresh-picked fruit and vegetables to local individuals. Together, Bixby Farms and Kerlikowske Farms generously donated over 400 fresh ears of corn and 400 watermelons for the cause, making that goal a reality. Over the three-day weekend, students were also given the opportunity to write encouragement cards to seniors living at Timber Ridge Manor in Berrien Springs and Pine Ridge Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Stevensville. Supplied with Bible verses, notecards and pens, participants wrote a total of 200 messages of strength and care to those who needed it, working to brighten the recipients’ days. In addition to these service events, other groups worked locally to bring positive change to the community. The mathe- matics and physics departments of the University came together in a joint effort to collect tombstone data, photos and GPS coordinates at Rose Hill Cemetery, Ber- rien Springs, in order to create a public digital database. Students lent their hands to beautifying the face of the Harbor of Hope church in Benton Harbor. Individu- als from the student club AFIA (Andrews Filipino International Association) worked collectively to landscape the local Filipino- American church in Berrien Springs. A group also ventured to Silver Beach in St. Joseph, worshiping together and cleaning up trash from the Labor Day weekend. In the wake of the uncertainty and obsta- cles of the past year, Teela Ruehle, director for service projects and Change Day coordi- nator, affirms that it has become all the more important to look outwardly and to serve oth- ers. “At Andrews University one of our goals is to develop world changing students. We want to lead out by inviting and showing stu- dents that we don’t serve because it’s easy or convenient, we serve because there’s a need, and during this difficult year the needs have increased not decreased,” she emphasizes. A heart for service Andrews University hosts Change Weekend “Andrews University cares about our community. A pandemic doesn't change that, it simply means we shift things around a bit ... our heart for our neighbors continues to beat strong.” Campus Update Fall 2020— 11BEGINNING FALL SEMESTER 2020, TWO initiatives were introduced that uniquely benefit and aid new students. Target- ing individuals unable to travel due to the pandemic, as well as those needing assistance in the transition from high school to college, the two programs work to ensure that new students—remote and in person—have the opportunity to succeed, flourish and connect. The first program, “Freshman Co- hort,” is led by Aaron Moushon, director of personal and career development and head of the Explore Andrews Program. The cohort specifically accommodates new freshmen who were unable to move to the main campus this past fall as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Moushon says, “As a diverse and global campus, it was imperative that we find a way to serve students who were affected by the pandemic.” Moushon met virtually with potential cohort participants from 14 different time zones in order to ensure they were a good fit for the group. Despite the isolation induced throughout 2020, he was excited by the fact that he was making contact with students. He notes, “During the most uncertain times of the pandemic, I was connecting with people all around the world.” Currently, the Freshman Cohort serves 25 students from ten separate countries, each taking a full course load of general education classes. The group meets regularly over Zoom, providing a community of support that operates across borders. Despite adjustments Freshman Cohort and Bridge to Success New academic services for new students at Andrews University ABOVE: Bridge to Success students come from across the U.S. as well as international locations. BELOW: The Freshman Cohort meets regularly through Zoom. and modifications stemming from the first-time aspects of the experience, Moushon considers the initiative a suc- cess, in large part due to its collaborative nature. He plans for the Freshman Cohort to continue to provide assistance to stu- dents into spring term of next year. The second program, “Bridge to Suc- cess,” originated from a 2019 conversation between Andrea Luxton, president, and Randy Graves, now director of the initia- tive. The discussion centered around the observation that most students with good high school GPAs and a strong high school curriculum but with low ACT and/or SAT scores were not being admitted to Andrews. Students from this category may now be accepted to Andrews as a part of the Bridge to Success program. In their tran- sition from high school to college, each individual is provided with enhanced support—from academics and studies to making friends and growing spiritually. This fall 19 students enrolled in the program. Participants meet with the di- rector individually on a bi-weekly basis for support and accountability. The full group attends a weekly seminar titled “College Success Strategies,” which covers topics such as transitioning from high school to college, time man- agement, making campus connec- tions, study skills and career choices. Spring semester 2021 will focus on “Career Exploration and Development,” defining the gifts, passions and story of each student and how they are called to serve others. So far, the program has received positive response from students, from its impact on their time management and boundaries, to their personal and spiritual lives. Graves reflects, “It is exciting to see the growth of these students this fall as they experience being a part of the Andrews University family.” In the unique reality of college in 2020 there is an ever greater emphasis on the importance of the community, both at home and abroad, that com- prises Andrews University. Both the Freshman Cohort and Bridge to Success work to strengthen that community and ensure that each student knows their value within it. Together, the two programs work to ensure that, despite difficulties and challenges from uncer- tain times, students are able to have a positive college experience. “It is exciting to see the growth of these students this fall as they experience being a part of the Andrews University family.” 12 —FOCUS Campus UpdateOVER THE SPAN OF HIS ALMOST 43 years of full-time service to Andrews University, Dan Bidwell has been a keystone figure in almost every recent technology milestone on campus. From the very first Unix computer in 1983, to the first internet email sent to the University in 1989, to acquiring the first use of wireless networking in 1998 and the introduc- tion of two-factor identification in 2019–2020, he has worked tirelessly to make the campus network secure and safe for all Andrews systems. Dan arrived on campus in September 1975 as an accounting major with a severe stutter. Al- though he discovered his passion for computing and switched majors partway through his academic career, he was on his own finan- cially and recalls the experience of working nearly 40 hours a week in addition to taking a full load of classes. He eventually decided to quit school and find a job, and was hired full time by the University in August 1977. Over the next two years, while employed by Andrews, he started taking classes again and completed a BS in information science. In addition to the academic achievement, he was able to combat his personal insecurity, explaining, “While learning new technology and helping others use it, I realized that other people really wanted to hear what I had to say and my stut- tering disappeared. Like Moses, if I wait for Him, God will give me the words to speak.” Dan went on to obtain an MS in computing from Andrews and, at his graduation in 1981, was one of the first three students to obtain that particular degree. A few years later, in 1986, he completed his PhD at the Illinois Institute of Technology in Chicago as the first Adventist with a doctorate in computer science. Outside of Andrews, Dan has taught computer science classes in Argen- tina, the Philippines and Lebanon. He has also done forensic investiga- tions for local law enforcement, the Inspector General for NASA, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Michigan State Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The majority of Dan’s career, though, has been at Andrews. He has served as systems programmer, instructor, assistant professor, as- sociate professor, full professor and senior systems administrator. Each job has given him the opportunity to enjoy the challenges presented by the size and complexity of the campus and has helped him find his passion for working with stu- dents, both in the classroom and on the job. Of them, he fondly states, “I would like to think that my students here are the best problem solvers at Andrews. They have been incredi- ble in their work for me and in their work after leaving.” According to Dan, however, the most rewarding part of his time at Andrews has been working with his wife, Lorena. She has been an employee of the University for 35 years, fulfilling the role of Chief Information Officer (CIO) for about half that time. He warmly acknowl- edges, “Her collaborative style has provided a safe work environment and encouraged innovation and the open exchange of ideas.” Together, they have served Andrews Univer- sity for a combined 78 years. For the time being, Dan and Lorena plan to stay in Southwest Michigan with their daughters, grandchildren and parents. He hopes, in the future, to become involved with an Adventist Cloud Computing project. Dan maintains, “Andrews has given me the opportunity to grow in directions I never expected. It has allowed me to have an impact on thousands of Adventist youth from around the world. It has helped me to develop and live out my personal mission to serve the Seventh-day Adventist Church and Adventist higher education.” Opportunities to grow Honoring Dan Bidwell’s service to Andrews University “Her [Lorena’s] collaborative style has provided a safe work environment and encouraged innovation and the open exchange of ideas.” Fall 2020— 13 Faculty & StaffFORTY YEARS AGO ØYSTEIN (STEN) LABI- anca began working as a professor of anthropology at Andrews University. He was recruited by President Joseph Smoot to join the Department of Behav- ioral Sciences—the same department where he completed his undergraduate studies, graduating with honors with a double major in behavioral science and religion in 1971. “I was turned on to the study of anthro- pology by Gottfried Oosterwal during my freshman year at Andrews,” says Øystein. “It was an excellent fit with my background and interests, and I never turned back. I also would like to acknowl- edge Andrews professors Robert Little, Siegfried H. Horn, Douglas Waterhouse and Larry Geraty for opening doors of opportunity for me to do research as perhaps the youngest team member of the original Heshbon Expedition.” On becoming chair of the Depart- ment of Behavioral Sciences in 1983, Øystein made experiential learning a cornerstone of the department’s approach to education by introducing community-based service learning, undergraduate research and study tours to Peru and Jordan as integral components of the department’s offer- ings. In 1992 he stepped down as chair to incubate the Masters in International Development Program, first on-campus and then off-campus in partnership with ADRA and various Seventh-day Adventist divisions and academic insti- tutions worldwide. Øystein is known internationally in his field of expertise because of his leadership in introducing anthropologi- cal approaches to the archaeology of the biblical world. In particular, he is known for having opened a new window on daily life and foodways in biblical times through his pioneering study of tens of thousands of domestic and wild animal bones uncovered by the Heshbon Expedition. Øystein has also champi- oned a more inclusive approach to how archaeology is done, involving local host communities with the preservation and presentation of archaeological finds in their backyards. And, for well over three decades, he has provided leadership for the professional association American Schools of Oriental Research, serving as one of its vice presidents and as a member of numerous committees and its board of trustees. Øystein found joy especially in work- ing with four groups of students: his academic advisees who shared his pas- sion for the study of anthropology, his student workers, his Andrews Schol- ars students, and his students in the off-campus international development program, many of them activists on the front lines for changing the world. “It has been a great career—I feel very blessed to have been able to dedicate a lifetime to teaching and doing research in anthropology.” Reflecting back on his career, Øystein says, “My life and career have been an- imated by the conviction that cultural differences are a mark of our being made in the image of God. With the phi- losopher Emmanuel Levinas, I believe that as we engage ‘the other’ without prejudice, we glimpse the Divine. This is what, in the end, Micah 5:8 calls us to do! This is also what, to me, the study of anthropology is all about.” Øystein greatly appreciated the Department of Behavioral Sciences and its culture of innovation and entrepre- neurship which always allowed for an openness to new ways of doing things and provided an environment in which he thrived. He drew great encourage- ment from his fellow faculty colleagues, department chairs, academic deans and University leadership. Now, in retirement, Øystein isn’t fully retiring. “In truth, mine is only a change of status from tenured professor to senior research professor,” he admits. He will still research and write, organize and mount archaeological fieldwork in Jordan as part of the Institute of Archae- ology team, teach on a contract basis and mentor students—but not at the same level of intensity as before. He adds, “The term that best de- scribes what I envision as my future is ‘unretirement.’ I am most grateful for good health, a wonderful life partner in my wife Asta, many terrific friends and colleagues, and a lovely local community in which to continue to do what I love.” Animated by conviction Celebrating Øystein LaBianca ’ s lifetime of teaching and research “My life and career have been animated by the conviction that cultural differences are a mark of our being made in the image of God.” Faculty & Staff 14 —FOCUSIN 1994, PATRICIA SPANGLER BEGAN working as the secretary for the Office of Public Relations at Andrews University. Over the next 26 years, she held various positions that grew in responsibility alongside changes in the office: from University Relations to Integrated Mar- keting & Communication to the current University Communication. “Working at Andrews has given me confidence in my abilities and an appreciation for diversity of thoughts and opinions,” Pat says. “It has been an unparalleled learning experience because of the many academic, cultural and spiritual opportunities available.” Pat originally moved to the Andrews area from Moncton, New Brunswick, with her husband and two daughters in 1989. At the end of December 2019, Pat retired as the director of University Communication and associate editor of FOCUS magazine. She now works with Andrews in a contract capacity and hopes to continue doing so for the immediate future. During her years at Andrews, some of her favorite memories involved the students she worked with. “From Cori Weaver, my first stellar student assistant, to Bjorn Karlman and Aaron Beaumont’s wordplay and antics with mice, Daniel Bedell’s zest for life and the amazing productivity of many of our gifted student writers, every one of them has impacted me for the better,” Pat says. Pat also treasures the friendships she made with the designer, Justin Jeffery, and the three student writers—Ashleigh Jardine, Melodie Roschman and Han- nah Gallant—who accompanied her in producing the daily newspaper at three Pathfinder Camporees in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Over the years, Pat witnessed several key transitions at Andrews. She recalls being a part of the beginning stages of the Andrews University website with Jerry Burr and Sharon Prest. Pat also remembers the transition from developing black and white photos in the basement darkroom to full-blown digital photo archives. Pat assisted with the Andrews booth at three (almost four) General Conference Sessions. She helped produce the first volume of the history of Andrews Univer- sity, “As We Set Forth,” with the author, Meredith Jones Gray. Pat also worked to make sure that Andrews employees were recognized for their years of service and honored appropriately at the annual Celebration of Employees event. For most of her time at Andrews, Pat worked with the production of FOCUS magazine. She began as an editorial as- sistant, then assistant editor, editor for 11 years, and is now the associate editor. “The talented people I worked with have remained close colleagues through the years,” Pat says. “It’s a joy to still be working with the current editor to share the story of Andrews University with alumni around the world.” While at Andrews, Pat also earned her BS in 2004. She is grateful for the encouragement and inspiration from multiple Andrews professors as she fin- ished her degree while simultaneously working full-time. “Demetra Andreasen has been a trusted mentor to me throughout the years and many other colleagues have become my closest friends,” Pat says. “Andrews University and the Berrien Springs area truly became my home as both of my daughters, Michelle Hamel (BBA ’00) and Sarah Lee (BT ’02), found their life partners there and the cycle of life has continued with my oldest grand- daughter Emma Hamel, who graduated from Andrews Academy in May 2020.” After taking an early retirement from Andrews, Pat moved to the state of Washington in January to be near her daughter Sarah’s family. “Having no idea of the imminent pandemic, the move has proved to be fortuitous as I’m now able to assist with my two younger grandchildren, ages 7 and 10, as they were forced into remote learning in March and remain home schooled at this time,” Pat says. “I look forward to being able to explore the beautiful Northwest area more fully once travel options are back to normal.” An unparalleled learning experience Patricia Spangler retires after 26 years of service “Working at Andrews has given me confidence in my abilities and an appreciation for diversity of thoughts and opinions.” Fall 2020— 15 Faculty & Staff“ANDREWS IS FAR MORE THAN JUST an employer to me,” says Reginald Swensen of his experience work- ing at Andrews University. “While I have worked for other organizations, Andrews has been my home base for about the last 57 years. I can truly say that I owe Andrews a lot for making me who I am today and for providing me with a deep well of life experience.” Reginald’s time on the Universi- ty campus began when his parents moved to the area. “I started in the fall of 1966 in Kindergarten and was continuously enrolled at Andrews for the next 22 years. I am truly a product of Andrews education,” he says. Reginald has held a variety of dif- ferent jobs on campus. As an Andrews Academy student, he worked at Cus- todial for two summers and at Meier Hall for two more summers. After high school, he continued his on-campus employment but with Studio 91, a cas- sette tape ministry where he worked throughout college. “It was at Studio 91 that my involvement with computer systems began,” he adds. “While work- ing there I developed a cassette tape inventory database using a primitive computer system. We used that data- base all the time I was in college.” After five years as an undergradu- ate student studying engineering and technology, Reginald started work for Edco, later known as Cirtec Systems, one of the industries Andrews owned at the time. He was employed as a student staff member and was able to earn one free class per semester. In 1988, Reginald was hired by the General Conference IT department as a technician. However, after finishing his MBA at Andrews University that summer, he was invited to the African Indian Ocean Division headquarters in Abidjan, where he worked for three years. “Upon returning I worked briefly for Adventist Health Systems in Orlando, Florida, and then came back to Berrien Springs,” he says. “I spent a year working for a local accounting firm before being hired full-time at Andrews.” Reginald worked as Novell Network systems administrator, taking care of local computer networks in several departments. Following that position, he took on the role of network engi- neer, designing and implementing the AUSecure WifiNetwork on campus. “When we began it consisted of two access points in the architecture building, later growing to ten access points covering James White Library,” he says. “After completing the first three phases of the wireless network I was asked to take on management of the campus-wide data storage network where virtually all Andrews University data resides.” Reginald values the opportunities he has had to work on interesting projects at Andrews. “Over the course of my career I’ve been trusted enough that I have been allowed to do far more daring projects than I should have reasonably expected to be al- lowed. As a result I have almost never had a dull moment at work in the last 25 or so years,” he notes. The academic environment at Andrews has encouraged Reginald to test his ideas in the field of comput- er systems. “Having access to great minds and deep understanding in so many different fields is one of the greatest perks of working at a uni- versity,” he asserts. “Andrews has the advantage in this area of being small enough that I was able to get to know personally administrators, profes- sors and students in a wide array of fields. At the same time, Andrews has the breadth to cover more fields of expertise than many colleges and universities of its size.” Reginald is grateful for professors Robert Ludeman and Ron John- son, who played a significant role in his time as a student at Andrews. “Without their guidance I doubt very much I would have had the career I have had,” he says. “We were always reminded that what we were studying was more than simply technology, it was God and His marvelous design of the universe that allowed us to devel- op that technology.” In retirement, Reginald plans to move to California with his wife, who works at Weimar Institute. He expects to work in their IT department, though he will miss the Andrews environment. “I’ve had a great time doing what I do,” he says. “It’s been a great ride and I wouldn’t trade it for the world.” A life at Andrews Reginald Swensen retires after 24.5 years of service “Having access to great minds and deep understanding in so many different fields is one of the greatest perks of working at a university.” 16 —FOCUS Faculty & StaffAT THE BEGINNING OF HIS CAREER, TOM Shepherd didn’t see himself pursuing teaching, much less as a professor of New Testament Interpretation at the Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary. He started college with a theology major with pre-med and even- tually pre-public health. He completed a master’s and doctorate in public health in 1976, and his wife, Sherry, graduated from medical school the same year. They worked and studied in the Chicago area for several years and then went to Mala- wi, Africa, as missionaries in 1979. Tom recalls those missionary years as some of the best of their life, includ- ing the births of their children, Amy and Jonathan. He worked in Malawi as ADRA director, Health and Temperance director, and rural clinics director for the South-East Africa Union (now Mala- wi Union). His time there also included a major catalyst for change—attendance at a Bible conference in South Africa, where Gerhard Hasel happened to be speaking. When conversing with Hasel after the presentation, Tom was encouraged to continue his interest in ministry and study for a PhD at the Andrews University Seminary. The Shepherd family returned to the U.S. in 1985, and Tom began his Sem- inary classes, earning first an MA in religion then a PhD in religion in New Testament. He recollects his hesitance at entering the teaching world and his request to God for a sign that he was headed in the right direction. An early opportunity came through a chance to teach Greek during graduate school and, as Tom notes, “It was like I had come home. I just loved the class- room, interaction with the students, helping them understand something new, helping the struggling make it through, mentoring. It was, and con- tinues to be, wonderful.” After completing his PhD, Tom went on to teach at both the UNASP Adven- tist University near Artur Nogueira in Brazil (1992–1994) and Union College (1994–2007) before he was invited to come teach at the Seventh-day Ad- ventist Theological Seminary in 2008. Part of his accomplishments over the past 12.5 years include service as pro- gram director for the PhD in Religion and ThD degrees from 2011–2019. In addition to raising scholarship money, taking students to annual professional meetings and mentoring individuals, he has also happily taken on the role of “the cookie man” at the men’s residence halls. Tom made the commitment to continue a tradition he began during his time at Union College—ministering to young men through residence hall visitation, prayers and cookies. He notes, “I find the young men refreshing, with a love for life. I am encouraged for the future of the church as I see so many spiritu- ally minded young people.” Tom and Sherry plan to stay in the Berrien Springs area where, as he says, there is “Plenty to keep me going.” He will write professionally, do teaching and research as senior research professor of New Testament, play cello and spend time on his hobby of amateur astronomy. He serves as head elder at the Eau Claire Seventh- day Adventist Church, continues his residence hall ministry and promotes exercise—he is a power walker, cyclist and weightlifter. Of his time at Andrews, Tom notes, “Working at Andrews has developed me professionally … to work with 40–50 of the brightest Adventist theological minds in the world has been, and con- tinues to be, a great privilege.” Encouraged for the future Tom Shepherd retires after 12.5 years of service “... I am encouraged for the future of the church as I see so many spiritually minded young people.” Tom Shepherd Fall 2020— 17 Faculty & Staff“DURING MY YEARS IN THE CHRIS- tian Ministry department I found love, acceptance, honest challenge and people I will forever value and cherish,” says Stanley Patterson. “The legacy I envision in students whom I have served exceeds any- thing else I have done.” Stanley’s interest in education began when he witnessed his father’s transformation after becoming a Seventh-day Adventist. Both his fa- ther and mother became committed to Adventist education. Stanley was inspired by this change. “The change in his life convinced me of the trans- formational efficacy of the Holy Spirit working through the SDA church,” he explains. Prior to working at Andrews, Stanley served as ministerial di- rector for the Georgia-Cumberland Conference from 1996 to 2000. After that, he served as vice president of pastoral ministry in the Georgia- Cumberland Conference from 2000 to 2008. It was during this time that Stanley also attended Andrews and earned his PhD in leadership. In 2007 he was called by Denis Fortin, dean of the Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary at Andrews University, to teach leadership. During his 12 years at Andrews, Stanley has worked as professor of leadership, chair of the Department of Christian Ministry, associate professor of Christian ministry and professor of Christian ministry. He also played a key role in the initi- ation and implementation of the chaplaincy concentration as a new choice for MDiv students. In 2015, Stanley received the Daniel A. Augsburger Award for Excellence in Teaching, and in 2017 he received the Siegfried H. Horn Award for Creative Scholarship & Research. “My sense of personal identity didn’t permit me to risk hoping for such recognition,” he says. “When asked about it I replied that I continued to be concerned about the possibility that it was a clerical error.” The friendships made and the val- ue found in Christian education have made Stanley’s Andrews’ experience worthwhile. “I have made lifelong friends among students at all grad- uate levels. Their occasional contact does not cease to be a moment of joy,” he says. “I have seen incredible growth and maturity in students who have made the commitment to grow through Christian education.” Stanley says his own personal worldview and cultural horizons have been broadened while at Andrews. In fact, he has most ap- preciated the cultural experience of working in such a diverse envi- ronment and the opportunity to be exposed to a multitude of cultures in many parts of the world. Stanley prays that God will bless Andrews University in its future en- deavors to educate students. “Bless this great institution of Andrews University and please carry it and those called to lead it with wisdom through the rough waters and trying times now and ahead,” he says. One of Stanley’s favorite Bible verses which has influenced his life and career is Proverbs 3:6—“In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths” (NKJV). Stanley says, “My calling into pastoral ministry was clear and undeniable. I have never been able to escape the grip of God’s hand in my life.” Stanley looks forward to writing scholarly works that will advocate for change and aspires to remain diligent in continuing to serve God’s church. He and his wife, Glenda, plan to stay in Berrien Springs. A mindset for ministry Stanley Patterson retires after 12 years at Andrews “I have seen incredible growth and maturity in students who have made the commitment to grow through Christian education.” 18 —FOCUS Faculty & StaffGROWING UP, DENISE SMITH WAS interested in two careers: teaching and something related to medi- cine. By high school she decided to become a nurse, and after taking a respiratory therapy course in high school she wanted to be a respira- tory therapist. When she moved to Berrien County in the 1980s, though, respiratory therapy didn’t appeal to her as it once had. She enrolled at Andrews, studying zo- ology in her undergraduate years and biology in graduate school. “I was a nontraditional student,” she says, “as I had been a respiratory therapist for 11 years prior to start- ing my undergraduate degree.” And from her very first class at Andrews, she knew it was where she wanted to work someday. Denise quickly came to rec- ognize the family atmosphere of the biology department. “I went through some major life events while I was a student here. While I was taking Foundations of Biol- ogy my daughter was diagnosed with leukemia. The support from the faculty, especially the biology faculty, further reinforced my de- cisions to return here to teach.” After she finished her master’s degree, she completed her PhD training at Western Michigan University and then a post-doc position at the University of Notre Dame before—as she had hoped—returning to Andrews as an employee. Andrews has given Denise the environment to help develop young minds and challenge them. One of her major responsibilities was the high school math and sci- ence center program. Denise says, “During my time here we were able to make the senior year expe- rience into a year-long research experience between chemistry and biology where the students create products in chemistry and then test them in biology. We have explored biodegradable pesticides, anti-bacterial agents and anti- fungal agents as a few examples.” There are many faculty and staff who have touched her time at Andrews, but one in particular stands out to Denise. “I have had a collaboration with Dr. Desmond Murray in chemistry,” she says. “Our collaboration involves his lab creating novel compounds that my lab tests as anti-cancer agents. We have had the privilege of working with graduate, under- graduate, honors, and high school students on these projects.” Denise still most appreciates the faculty and the environment created at Andrews. “The faculty truly care about what they do and the students that they work with. I feel especially blessed to have worked with such caring faculty and developing the relationships with the students that I have,” she says. “I found my passion. For the first time, this was not a job, I looked forward to being in my office and engaging with the students and faculty. I have had the privilege to work with caring, compassionate, Christian educa- tors to help our students realize their potential and their dreams.” Denise plans on remaining with Andrews for the rest of the school year as adjunct faculty and will continue to work with the math and science center high school program. Afterward she has a dream for her retirement. “We are looking to move to Texas in the next couple of years,” says Denise. “We’ll buy a small farm where we can raise milk goats and chickens as well as raising our own produce. Right now we don’t have any firm plan, just watching for that perfect farm to come up for sale. I look forward to being able to garden.” A privilege to work Denise Smith reflects on finding her passion “I feel especially blessed to have worked with such caring faculty and developing the relationships with the students that I have.” Fall 2020— 19 Faculty & StaffNext >