Andrews University Agenda

Andrews University Agenda http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/ News and Events at Andrews University en-us Copyright 2026, Andrews University Sun, 27 Sep 2026 19:36:00 +0000 Sun, 27 Sep 2026 19:36:00 +0000 webmaster@andrews.edu webmaster@andrews.edu Building for Hope: Architecture Meets Mission http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/70350 <p> Niki Djordjevic did not arrive at Andrews University planning to use his studies for mission work. When he began the five-year Architecture Program, his motivations were considerably more practical. “I was doing architecture more for the money at first,” Djordjevic admits.</p> <p> A mission trip to Honduras during his third year began to change that perspective.</p> <p> Invited by a friend only two weeks before the trip, Djordjevic traveled with a group that served at an orphanage and in nearby communities. There, he met children with few material possessions whose joy challenged his understanding of fulfillment. “These kids have more joy than me,” he remembers thinking. “What am I doing wrong in life?”</p> <p> Djordjevic returned to Honduras twice and also participated in mission trips to Lebanon. During his third trip to Honduras, he was asked to help replace a deteriorating garage for the woman who operated the orphanage. With only a few days to complete the project, he adapted the design and construction in the face of unexpected challenges. “That was my first time seeing, ‘Maybe I can use architecture for missions,’” he says.</p> <p> That connection was strengthened during his final year at Andrews. As part of the Urban Design Studio class, Djordjevic traveled to Rwanda with his classmates to work with Impact Hope on plans for a School of Excellence and Vocational Training Center for refugee youth. Meeting the students who would eventually use the campus shifted his attention from simply planning buildings to designing for the people who would inhabit them.</p> <p> His experiences ultimately shaped his final architecture studio project. After seeing a previous Andrews project that transformed a shipping container into a medical clinic, Djordjevic contacted Carey Carscallen, professor emeritus of architecture. Carscallen suggested a different need: housing for missionaries serving in Eswatini.</p> <p> Djordjevic and several classmates began transforming a 20-by-8-foot shipping container into a compact dwelling. With limited space, the design incorporates multifunctional areas, including a bed that shares space with a couch and desk.</p> <p> The project quickly expanded beyond the classroom. Djordjevic’s father helped him learn electrical work, plumbing, painting and other construction skills, while his mother provided interior design guidance and helped source materials. Local businesses donated lumber and paint, and individual donors supported construction through <a href="https://www.buildforhope.org">Build for Hope</a>, an initiative Djordjevic created during the project.</p> <p> When the mission organization in Eswatini requested additional housing, other students began constructing a second container using the plans and material lists developed for the first.</p> <p> The first completed unit faced one final obstacle: approximately $8,000 in shipping costs. Djordjevic says he prayed about how the project would reach Africa. Then, an anonymous donor covered the full amount. “I almost started crying,” he says. “At one point, you just can’t deny that God is leading.”</p> <p> The container has been shipped to Eswatini, packed not only with its furnishings but also with hundreds of boxes of clothing, books and donated tools. Djordjevic has traveled with Carscallen to complete the installation and spend several weeks with the community.</p> <p> Looking back, Djordjevic says Andrews taught him that professional training and mission do not have to exist separately. “You can’t teach mission without doing mission,” he says. “Andrews definitely showed me that I can take my gifts and talents and my profession and use it for God.”</p> Thu, 24 Sep 2026 17:04:25 +0000 Andrews Professors Contribute to New Textbook http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/69508 <p> Andrews University professors recently contributed a number of chapters to a new textbook, “Rethinking the Composition of the Pentateuch,” which was published in April 2026 by Hendrickson Publishers.</p> <p> The editors of the textbook include Kenneth Bergland, assistant professor of Old Testament studies at the Adventist International Institute of Advanced Studies, Roy E. Gane, professor of Old Testament at Andrews University, Gary A. Rendsburg, professor of biblical studies, Hebrew language and ancient Judaism at Rutgers University, and A. Rahel Wells, professor of Old Testament at Andrews University. The volume was collaboratively created by the Exploring the Composition of the Pentateuch (ECP) research team, which includes 38 scholars from a variety of faith traditions. The book contains over forty essays, written in a concise, comprehensive and accessible manner.</p> <p> Exploring the Composition of the Pentateuch is an international and inter-religious research project on the origin and writing of the Pentateuch (otherwise known as the Torah, the five books of Moses, or Genesis through Deuteronomy) and the foundational scriptures of Judeo-Christian religion.</p> <p> “It is widely recognized that current scholarship on the origin of the Pentateuch has been undergoing a breakdown of constructive dialogue between scholarly communities due to fundamental differences of presuppositions and methodologies between them,” observe the leaders of the ECP group. “Against this background, the ECP research team aims to engage the most up-to-date evidence in order to develop a positive model of the composition of the Pentateuch.”</p> <p> Scholarship on the origin of the Pentateuch has seen significant discoveries during recent decades, accompanied by many differing scholarly theories. “The ECP group is convinced by the biblical data that the best evidence supports the reliability and coherence of the Pentateuch as it presents itself,” say ECP leaders. “Simultaneously, there is a need to reject simplistic readings of the Pentateuch and acknowledge that it is a highly sophisticated and artistic text written in a way that is often foreign to modern culture.”</p> <p> The scholars participating in the ECP project represent Evangelical, Seventh-day Adventist, Catholic and Jewish faith traditions. While the majority are from the United States, there are also members working in Brazil, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Israel, Lebanon and the Philippines. The ECP project initially began as a small, student-led project at Andrews University, started by Bergland and Felipe Masotti. An inaugural conference was held in 2016, and the project has greatly expanded over several years. Seventh-day Adventist scholars—including Bergland, Masotti, Wells and Gane—have led in organizing the conferences and work of the group.</p> <p> Most recently, the fourth Exploring the Composition of the Pentateuch Conference took place from Sept. 14–16, 2025. An international team of scholars gathered at Andrews University to present papers and discuss the composition of the Pentateuch. The group focused on revisiting key passages in the scholarly debate to show how source and redaction critical theories are inadequate explanations. They also found convincing explanations of textual phenomena that align better with the self-testimony of the pentateuchal books themselves.</p> <p> Based on conference findings, the ECP research team has published two volumes of a four-volume research series. The initial book, published after the first conference, was printed by Eisenbrauns/Penn State University Press in the “Bulletin for Biblical Research Supplement” series with the title “Exploring the Composition of the Pentateuch.” The second volume was published in the same series at the end of 2025, the third will be released in the fall of 2026 and the fourth will come out at the beginning of 2027.</p> <p> Work on the upcoming 2026 volume, based on recent conference papers, has already begun. The ECP group will meet for a fifth Exploring the Composition of the Pentateuch conference in September 2027.</p> <div> <u font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); box-sizing: border-box;">                    </u></div> <div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> To learn more about studying at Andrews University, please visit <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/admissions/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">Enrollment</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> If you’re interested in joining the Andrews University team, please see the list of available <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/services/hr/job_seekers/index.html" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">positions</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> We invite you to support the Andrews University mission by making a <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/services/development/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">donation</a>.</div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> <br /> Please read more about great things happening at Andrews University <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/agenda/feed/Agenda:+Campus+News/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">here</a>.<span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">  </span></div> </div> Wed, 05 Aug 2026 11:17:08 +0000 Andrews University Hosts Founding of NESTX http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/69506 <p> On March 29, 2026, the Adventist Innovation Network (NESTX) was officially launched as an international organization bringing together Adventist institutions of higher education to promote innovation rooted in mission. The network functions as a global platform for collaboration focused on applied research, technology transfer, industry collaboration and entrepreneurship within the Adventist education system.</p> <p> “I believe NESTX comes at a crucial moment. Higher education is experiencing significant change, and no institution can face these challenges alone. … NESTX seeks to unite Adventist universities through innovation, research and entrepreneurship, fostering an ecosystem where faculty, students, and leaders can work together more efficiently, achieve greater impact, and carry out our educational mission with relevance and purpose,” shares George Perez, associate professor of management and marketing at Walla Walla University.</p> <p> The inaugural NESTX General Assembly was held over three days, from March 27–29, at Andrews University. The event combined in person and virtual participation, allowing academic leaders and innovation directors from different countries to participate.</p> <p> The assembly brought together representatives from Seventh-day Adventist institutions of higher education in the United States, Mexico, Chile, Peru, Argentina, Bolivia, Colombia, the Dominican Republic and Brazil, among other countries. In total, representatives from 13 universities belonging to the North American, Inter American and South American Divisions participated, reflecting the global and interdivisional character of the initiative.</p> <p> “The Founding General Assembly marked the moment when a shared dream became an institutional reality,” affirms Andrés Díaz, director of the research and development center at Universidad de Montemorelos. “As a result, NESTX begins its journey not merely as a partnership of institutions, but as a unified international community committed to advancing innovation, research, entrepreneurship and technology transfer in support of the Seventh-day Adventist educational mission.”</p> <p> Participating institutions included Andrews University, Universidad de Montemorelos, Universidad de Navojoa, Universidad Adventista de Chile, Universidad Linda Vista, Universidad Peruana Unión, Universidad Adventista del Plata, Universidad Adventista de Bolivia, Faculdade Adventista do Paraná, Centro Universitário Adventista de São Paulo, Corporación Universitaria Adventista Colombia, Universidad Adventista Dominicana, Southwestern Adventist University and Walla Walla University.</p> <p> Activities began on Friday with an Innovation Forum, where key topics related to educational innovation, applied research and interinstitutional collaboration were addressed. The forum highlighted the importance of working collaboratively through networks to respond to the current challenges facing Adventist higher education.</p> <p> On Saturday, a networking dinner took place, hosted by Anneris Coria Navia and Sócrates Quispe, associate directors of the Department of Education of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. The event fostered relationship building, the exchange of experiences, and the development of new opportunities for collaboration among presidents, vice presidents, innovation directors, researchers and institutional representatives.</p> <p> “Our Adventist heritage reminds us that our pioneers were disruptive thinkers, courageous innovators, and visionary leaders. … By working together through initiatives like NestX, we can honor that legacy, amplify our collective strengths, and create solutions that make a lasting impact on our campuses, our communities and the world,” shares Licci Zemleduch, assistant professor of business administration at Southwestern Adventist University.</p> <p> The central moment of the General Assembly occurred on Sunday, March 29, with the Founding Charter of NESTX, under the leadership of Coria-Navia and Quispe. During this session, the NESTX bylaws were presented and approved, the Executive Committee was elected, and the Founding Charter was formally signed. As part of this process, Matías Soto, director of the Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship at Andrews University, was elected president of the network, assuming leadership of NESTX. Soto’s appointment underscores the network’s commitment to a strategic vision of innovation, international collaboration and the development of mission focused academic ecosystems.</p> <p> As part of NESTX’s official establishment, the appointment of divisional representatives was also formalized. Alcides Flores, faculty at Universidad Peruana Unión, was appointed vice president and representative of the South American Division; Zemleduch and Perez were appointed representatives of the North American Division; Díaz was designated representative of the Inter American Division; and Márcio Araújo, faculty at Faculdade Adventista do Paraná, and Nicolás Quaranta, manager of Human Resources at Universidad Adventista del Plata, were named representatives of the South American Division. The additional appointments of Jhon Niño, faculty member at Corporación Universitaria Adventista Colombia, and Ana Quirós, vice president for academic affairs at Universidad Adventista de Centro América, as representatives of the Inter-American Division were also completed at a later date. These designations strengthen NESTX’s governance structure and reinforce its interdivisional collaboration from its foundational stage.</p> <p> The gathering concluded with the presentation of the elected Executive Committee, the conferral of recognitions and the official closing of the General Assembly. Through the creation of NESTX, Adventist education reaffirms its commitment to an innovative, collaborative and mission faithful future. Flores notes, “NESTX aspires to amplify the collective impact of Adventist higher education, enabling its institutions to transform lives, advance knowledge, and extend Christ-centered service to their communities and to the world.”</p> <p> For more information or to inquire about joining NESTX, visit their <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/nestx-adventist-innovation/">LinkedIn page</a> or email <a href="mailto:director@nest-x.org">director@nest-x.org</a>.</p> <div> <u font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); box-sizing: border-box;">                    </u></div> <div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> To learn more about studying at Andrews University, please visit <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/admissions/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">Enrollment</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> If you’re interested in joining the Andrews University team, please see the list of available <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/services/hr/job_seekers/index.html" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">positions</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> We invite you to support the Andrews University mission by making a <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/services/development/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">donation</a>.</div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> <br /> Please read more about great things happening at Andrews University <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/agenda/feed/Agenda:+Campus+News/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">here</a>.<span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">  </span></div> </div> Tue, 04 Aug 2026 09:46:00 +0000 Summer Graduation 2026 at Andrews University http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/69475 <p> Andrews University’s Summer Graduation will take place during the weekend of July 31–Aug. 2, 2026. Events will begin on Friday with a Vespers service, followed by a Baccalaureate service on Sabbath and two Commencement services on Sunday morning.</p> <p> Both Commencement services will take place at the Andreasen Center for Wellness, and the Friday Vespers and Baccalaureate service will be held at Pioneer Memorial Church. Please note that in order to provide adequate seating for the families of graduates, there are two Commencement services with reserved seating only.</p> <p> Additional academic and cultural programs are planned throughout the graduation weekend. For a complete list, please consult the online schedule at <a href="http://andrews.edu/graduation/schedule/">andrews.edu/graduation/schedule/</a>.</p> <p> The Baccalaureate on Sabbath, Aug. 1, at 11:45 a.m., will be delivered by Erton Köhler, president of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. Köhler completed a bachelor’s degree in theology and a master’s degree in pastoral theology from the Adventist Teaching Institute (now Brazilian Adventist University) and is graduating with a Doctor of Ministry from Andrews University. He has served the South American Division (SAD) of Seventh-day Adventists as a pastor, Youth Ministries director and executive secretary. In 2007, he became president of SAD, and in 2025, he was elected to his current role.</p> <p> Monica Reed, regional president and CEO for AdventHealth Great Lakes Region and president and CEO of UChicago Medicine AdventHealth, will offer the 8:30 a.m. Commencement address on Sunday, Aug. 2, for students of the College of Arts and Sciences, College of Health & Human Services and College of Professions. She earned a Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Medicine from Loma Linda University, as well as a Master of Science from the University of Oxford. A nationally recognized health care executive and physician leader with more than three decades of experience, Reed drives mission-centered growth and leadership excellence across complex organizational systems.</p> <p> Honorary degree candidate H. Melvin Ming will be recognized at this service. Ming graduated from Temple University and went on to attain the rank of staff sergeant in the U.S. Army. He began his career in the field of finance before transitioning to multiple executive leadership roles across public media. In 1999, he joined Sesame Workshop and went on to become president and chief executive officer of the organization. He retired in 2014, leaving a legacy of stewardship, excellence and team building. Ming has also served on various church, nonprofit and corporate boards, investing deeply in mentoring organizations and future leaders.</p> <p> The 11:30 a.m. Commencement service on Sunday will honor graduates from the College of Education & International Services and Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary. Audrey Andersson, general vice president for the Seventh-day Adventist World Church, will be the speaker. Andersson will also be recognized with an honorary degree during the service. She holds a bachelor’s degree in theology and a master’s degree in pastoral ministry. In 2003, Andersson began serving as executive secretary of the Swedish Union of Churches Conference and, in 2010, became executive secretary of the Trans-European Division of Seventh-day Adventists, before moving to her current role in 2022.</p> <p> Select graduation services will be livestreamed. For more details, visit <a href="http://andrews.edu/graduation/">andrews.edu/graduation/</a>.</p> <div> <u font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); box-sizing: border-box;">                    </u></div> <div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> To learn more about studying at Andrews University, please visit <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/admissions/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">Enrollment</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> If you’re interested in joining the Andrews University team, please see the list of available <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/services/hr/job_seekers/index.html" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">positions</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> We invite you to support the Andrews University mission by making a <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/services/development/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">donation</a>.</div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> <br /> Please read more about great things happening at Andrews University <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/agenda/feed/Agenda:+Campus+News/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">here</a>.</div> </div> Mon, 27 Jul 2026 12:21:46 +0000 A Mission Without Borders http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/69398 <p> This year, Andrews University celebrates 15 years since Griggs University and Griggs International Academy moved to Andrews. The collaboration has strengthened Adventist distance education while expanding opportunities for thousands of students from more than 50 countries.</p> <p> “For more than a century, Griggs has served students whose circumstances make traditional education difficult or impossible. Whether separated by geography, work, family responsibilities, political barriers or limited access to educational opportunities, students have found a pathway to learning through distance education,” says La Ronda Forsey, principal of Griggs International Academy.</p> <p> In 1909, Seventh-day Adventist education embraced an idea that was ahead of its time. Church leaders recognized that many members and workers around the world were unable to attend a traditional school due to factors including geography, work responsibilities, family obligations and distance.</p> <p> In an effort to remove these barriers, the Fireside Correspondence School was founded in Maryland by Adventist educational pioneer Frederick Griggs. Lessons were delivered by mail, allowing students to study wherever they lived. The early years were marked by steady growth and adaptation, and the institution became the Home Study Institute in 1931.</p> <p> A significant milestone came in 1990 when the Maryland Higher Education Commission granted permission for the institution to offer degree programs. This marked the beginning of Griggs University and expanded the school’s impact beyond K–12 education. While Griggs had served learners at multiple educational levels throughout its history, this decision opened a new chapter of higher education opportunities for Adventist students worldwide.</p> <p> As technology advanced, Griggs continued to evolve. The K–12 division became Griggs International Academy in 2003, reflecting its growing international reach and commitment to serving students beyond traditional geographic boundaries.</p> <p> Another transformative chapter began in 2010. After an extensive study by a General Conference commission on distance education, church leaders recommended that Griggs University become part of Andrews University. The recommendation reflected a growing recognition that distance education would play an important role in serving the worldwide church.</p> <p> After careful planning, Griggs officially relocated from Maryland to the Andrews University campus in Berrien Springs, Michigan, in 2011. Then in 2015, Griggs University became fully integrated into the Andrews University structure through the School of Distance Education, while Griggs International Academy continued to operate independently within the same school. This strategic partnership brought together the experience and heritage of Griggs with the academic resources and global influence of Andrews University.</p> <p> In March 2024, the Andrews University Board of Trustees voted to reorganize the School of Distance Education into the Andrews University Global Campus. The new name reflects a broader vision for online learning, international partnerships and innovative educational delivery for students from kindergarten through higher education.</p> <p> Today, students connect to the Global Campus from cities, local schools, villages, mission fields, military bases and homes around the world. Through direct enrollment, partnerships with Adventist schools and innovative online learning models, they receive a fully accredited, faith-based education regardless of where they live.</p> <p> “As Adventist education looks toward the future, new technologies will continue to reshape how education is delivered. Yet the most important elements remain unchanged: caring teachers, meaningful relationships, academic excellence and a commitment to helping students develop a deeper connection with Jesus Christ,” says Janine Lim, dean of the Global Campus.</p> <p> For 117 years, Griggs has served students with dedication and care. While the classroom may look different from what it was in 1909, the vision of the Andrews University Global Campus remains the same: preparing students around the world for lives of service today and for God’s kingdom tomorrow.</p> <p> If you or someone you know would like to be a part of our Global Campus, find out more <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/global/about/index.html" target="_blank">here</a>!</p> Wed, 01 Jul 2026 15:52:29 +0000 Lim Receives Hall of Fame Award http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/69394 <p> This year, Janine Lim, dean of the Global Campus at Andrews University, received the 2026 Hall of Fame Higher Education award from the United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA).</p> <p> USDLA awards are given out annually to acknowledge organizations and individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary achievements using online learning techniques, innovation and video technologies. The Hall of Fame award, specifically, requires participation in USDLA and significant contributions to global distance learning.</p> <p> Throughout her career, Lim has been deeply engaged in developing and promoting distance education. In 2008, she won the USDLA Outstanding Leadership Award and soon after began to serve on the USDLA board. “I loved doing it, because I learned so much from other institutions and what they’re doing. [USDLA] is a really interesting group because they have K–12, higher education, corporate, government and health care distance education.”</p> <p> Before joining the Andrews community, Lim worked as an instructional technology consultant at the Berrien Regional Education Service Agency for 14 years, where she focused on online asynchronous instructional technology and distance education. During this time, she taught courses for the Adventist Virtual Learning Network and oversaw a video conferencing system with around 35 units across local public school districts. She was also able to coordinate video conference projects, such as open-heart surgeries from the Center of Science and Industry in Columbus, Ohio, and an annual international reading event across multiple states and four countries. Lim shares that this work created a strong foundation for her time at Andrews University.</p> <p> Lim earned her BA in communication, MAT and PhD in leadership from Andrews University. In 2011, she began serving at Andrews as associate dean for online higher education. During this time, she was responsible for improving the quality and design of technological and online tools that aided the University. She was also responsible for faculty and course development, and she promoted collaboration across multiple Adventist institutions of higher learning. Lim began serving as interim dean of the Global Campus in March 2026, before becoming dean on July 1, 2026.</p> <p> As dean of the Global Campus, Lim oversees the Adult Degree Completion Center, the School of Leadership, the Center for Continuing Education, the Center for Digital Learning & Instructional Technology, the Office of International Student Services and Griggs International Academy. She hopes to continue her work of “deep collaboration, where each person understands the intent and design of what others bring,” noting that “to fully integrate and learn from each other’s ideas creates really great interactions.”</p> <p> Lim shares, “I feel that working at Andrews in distance education is something that God created and knit me together to do. He gave me the experience, and I am committed to Andrews because I know God wants me here. … For me, this award is a confirmation that God is leading, and He needs me to do something more besides what I’ve done so far.” </p> Wed, 01 Jul 2026 09:50:45 +0000 Deans List Released for Spring 2026 http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/69357 <p> Andrews University has announced the undergraduate deans list for spring semester 2026. The students listed have maintained a semester GPA of 3.5 or higher while having at least 12 credits, no incompletes and no grade below a B.</p> <div> Acevedo, Joel</div> <div> Acosta Espana, Ana G.</div> <div> Adap, Caitlin E.</div> <div> Aguilera, Alex R.</div> <div> Aispuro, Sarah C.</div> <div> Alce, Junia S.</div> <div> Alfaro, Alex J.</div> <div> Ali, Adri</div> <div> Alvarez, Sophia N.</div> <div> Amoakohene, Ena</div> <div> Amstone, Elissa</div> <div> Anderson, Brooklyn</div> <div> Andrews, Cameron D.</div> <div> Antoine, Carl S.</div> <div> Arroyo, Shami</div> <div> Arroyo, Shareef Z.</div> <div> Arroz, Iesach</div> <div> Avitia, Sicily E.</div> <div> Ayala Carrera, Marly R.</div> <div> Ayala Rios, Aiko J.</div> <div> Bacchiocchi, Enzo F.</div> <div> Bade, Eliora R.</div> <div> Balorda, Etien A.</div> <div> Banish, Sarah E.</div> <div> Baptist, Natalie</div> <div> Barayuga, Clark Jann</div> <div> Barbosa, Vitor</div> <div> Baun, Sophia R.</div> <div> Beatty, Caleb J.</div> <div> Bello, Elle E.</div> <div> Bembry, Denzel J.</div> <div> Benalcazar, Pablo S.</div> <div> Benavides Martinez, Juan David</div> <div> Bennett, Adaliah</div> <div> Bevier, Corinna O.</div> <div> Blake, Finnegan J.</div> <div> Bliven, Katelyn A.</div> <div> Boersen, Caleb J.</div> <div> Boyle, Kiana V.</div> <div> Boyson, Tina M.</div> <div> Bradley, Ethan T.</div> <div> Bramucci, Maddie J.</div> <div> Brieva, Arianna E.</div> <div> Broderick, Joy</div> <div> Brooks, Annabelle S.</div> <div> Brouhard, Seth C.</div> <div> Browne Jr, Colin M.</div> <div> Buchi-Samuels, Godslove</div> <div> Burch, Xienne N.</div> <div> Butnaru, Alex S.</div> <div> Buursma, Angie J.</div> <div> Cadet, Ilisa J.</div> <div> Cadet, Rebecca S.</div> <div> Cambigue, Tobin B.</div> <div> Campbell, Emma C.</div> <div> Carey, Charles E.</div> <div> Carlsen, Callie G.</div> <div> Carlson, Brendon D.</div> <div> Carlson, Chandler B.</div> <div> Carterman, Aaron M.</div> <div> Caruthers, Alyssa</div> <div> Caruthers, Asha C.</div> <div> Case, Brady W.</div> <div> Castellanos, Leslie P.</div> <div> Cautivar, Kendall E.</div> <div> Cervantes, Edward L.</div> <div> Chamberlain, Isabella J.</div> <div> Chery, Brianna R.</div> <div> Chilon Pinazo, Beka J.</div> <div> Chisacova, Vlada</div> <div> Cho, Paul</div> <div> Choi, Wang Fung</div> <div> Chuang, Huei Yi</div> <div> Chun, Karan</div> <div> Chung, Caleb</div> <div> Chung, Lok Yin Olina</div> <div> Ciin, Rose L.</div> <div> Cing, Lun M.</div> <div> Clarke, Kahra N.</div> <div> Clarke, Zamara K.</div> <div> Clear, Kevina</div> <div> Clough, Jon C.</div> <div> Coffen, Chris R.</div> <div> Conroy, Cameron J.</div> <div> Constantine, Megan E.</div> <div> Corbett, Kristi K.</div> <div> Cortez Jr, Luis A.</div> <div> Cote, Gabrielle</div> <div> Crawford, Daysha R.</div> <div> Crayton, Aleah D.</div> <div> Creitz, David</div> <div> Cruz, Janielly J.</div> <div> Cuellar, Alex D.</div> <div> Dankyau, Jemima</div> <div> Dapiton, Jed Earl P.</div> <div> Darrell, Jaquan N.</div> <div> Das Dores, Abiana De Oliveira</div> <div> Dasher, Evia J.</div> <div> De Almeida E Silva, Israel</div> <div> De Leon, Andrea A.</div> <div> Dean, Sierra M.</div> <div> DeJonge, Rachel R.</div> <div> Delacruz, Ethan A.</div> <div> DelaRoca, Abigail</div> <div> delaRoca, Andrew G.</div> <div> DeMoraes, Isa L.</div> <div> DeSilva, Mackenzie E.</div> <div> Devaisher, Henry W.</div> <div> Diaz, Diana P.</div> <div> Dombrowski, Andrew</div> <div> Dominguez, Memo</div> <div> Dominguez, Sebastian S.</div> <div> Don, Donnu N.</div> <div> Dovald, Nyara B.</div> <div> Drummond, Breanna G.</div> <div> Drysdale-Brown, Francine R.</div> <div> Dube, Joe M.</div> <div> Dubon, Melani M.</div> <div> Dulan, Alexis M.</div> <div> Duncan, Stroud S.</div> <div> Duncan, Tina</div> <div> Dunstan, Emily</div> <div> Elanko, Nathan R.</div> <div> Ermshar, Loryn O.</div> <div> Esaki, Sohgo</div> <div> Etienne, Elie E.</div> <div> Ettienne, Miajah H.</div> <div> Evans Ms, Kamryn</div> <div> Feitosa, Derek G.</div> <div> Feitosa, Malton G.</div> <div> Ferrales, Aram D.</div> <div> Flamenco Menjivar, Dayanna P.</div> <div> Flores, Oscar I.</div> <div> Flores Solorzano, Jeffrey</div> <div> Foll, Elena C.</div> <div> Forbes, Mariann A.</div> <div> Fossmeyer, Kenzie M.</div> <div> Fowler, Mika R.</div> <div> Fraser, Maya R.</div> <div> Frichtl, Zalen J.</div> <div> Frimpong Manso, Abi</div> <div> Fritz, Zach C.</div> <div> Frost, Shira L.</div> <div> Garcia Castillo, Peter</div> <div> Garnett, Kayla S.</div> <div> Gietsel, Michelle E.</div> <div> Godinez, Ashley J.</div> <div> Golooba-Mutebi, Kato</div> <div> Gomez, Raquel</div> <div> Gonzalez, Moses E.</div> <div> Grimm, Alan J.</div> <div> Gruia, Ava G.</div> <div> Grunden, Abigail R.</div> <div> Gulzar, Natasha</div> <div> Gulzar, Nathalie</div> <div> Habenicht, Isaac</div> <div> Hailu, Semhar</div> <div> Hamstra, Kyra L.</div> <div> Handy, Avery J.</div> <div> Hann, Maddie I.</div> <div> Hardinge, Elena G.</div> <div> Hardy, Carlyle</div> <div> Harris, Hannah L.</div> <div> Hart, Elizabeth M.</div> <div> Hau, Mung</div> <div> Hawkins, Bethany S.</div> <div> Henderson, Matthew L.</div> <div> Henry Saturne, Daniel B.</div> <div> Henry Saturne, David C.</div> <div> Hess, Rebekah M.</div> <div> Hildebrant, Zachery R.</div> <div> Hill, Skylor D.</div> <div> Hirwa, Noble</div> <div> Ho, Tik Yau</div> <div> Holbrook, Daena R.</div> <div> Howell, Emily M.</div> <div> Hrovat, Olivia G.</div> <div> Huerta, Marco A.</div> <div> Hylton, Dayna A.</div> <div> Imazu, Mark L.</div> <div> Inae, Elise</div> <div> Injety, Ian R.</div> <div> Iribar Corpas, Mailyn</div> <div> Ishimwe, Hope A.</div> <div> Ishimwe, Juliette</div> <div> Isidro, Braelyn J.</div> <div> Izumi, Caleb A.</div> <div> Izumi, Ethan L.</div> <div> Jacques, Abygayle</div> <div> Jaeger, Hans A.</div> <div> Jankovic, Jakov</div> <div> Jarrett, Cole</div> <div> Jean Batiste Reynoso, Rubi N.</div> <div> Jean-Francois, Nora</div> <div> Jean-Francois, Sarah</div> <div> Jeffers, Molly C.</div> <div> Jewell, Daylan W.</div> <div> Johns, Bryn E.</div> <div> Johns, Noah</div> <div> Joo, Alyssa G.</div> <div> Joo, David</div> <div> Jordan, Jack</div> <div> Joseph Villar, Yendy N.</div> <div> Juanata, Gaberylle Milcah P.</div> <div> Juncal, Chloe A.</div> <div> Junsay, Ben P.</div> <div> Kasper, Jonathan H.</div> <div> Kelsey, Ashley Marie</div> <div> Khai, Go M.</div> <div> Khan, Leily</div> <div> Khaula, Violet</div> <div> Kim, Elliott A.</div> <div> Kim, Emerson S.</div> <div> Kim, Grayce</div> <div> Kim, Jimin</div> <div> Kim, Jion</div> <div> Kim, Khup K.</div> <div> Kim, Lily H.</div> <div> Koilpillai, Darcy</div> <div> Korley, Loriann M.</div> <div> Krueger, Kristen A.</div> <div> Kundapen, Karen</div> <div> Kwon, Jeremy S.</div> <div> Kwon, Kaylee J.</div> <div> Lam, Veronica</div> <div> Larcher, Emmanuel</div> <div> Larcher, Hadassah M.</div> <div> Law, Vinki</div> <div> Lawton, Faith C.</div> <div> Lee, Ari</div> <div> Lee, Celeste J.</div> <div> Lee, Grant W.</div> <div> Lee, Megan</div> <div> Lee, Sumin</div> <div> Leets, Seth</div> <div> Leffler, Caleb I.</div> <div> Leiterman, Micah N.</div> <div> Lemon, Sara R.</div> <div> Leng, Nuam C.</div> <div> Leon, Ximena S.</div> <div> Lewis, Moshandi</div> <div> Lewis, Oria N.</div> <div> Lim, Anderson M.</div> <div> Lim, Audrey J.</div> <div> Lim, HyunJi</div> <div> Lima Soto, Eliza</div> <div> Liu, Daniel D.</div> <div> Liwanag, Jasher C.</div> <div> Loenser, Ben B.</div> <div> Louis Jean, Darren</div> <div> Lufafa, Jesse Junior</div> <div> Lyons, Brenna L.</div> <div> Lyons, Kiera</div> <div> Macaraig, Janelle Rosemyn Pesigan</div> <div> Macaraig, Faith S.</div> <div> Machengete I, Chido C.</div> <div> Mack, Yohance A.</div> <div> Maeda, Joshua M.</div> <div> Malabrigo, Praise</div> <div> Mamarimbing, Shania C.</div> <div> Mang, Cing L.</div> <div> Mange, Prudence</div> <div> Manoukian, Stephanie N.</div> <div> Marita, Tahlia</div> <div> Martin Rodriguez, Rut</div> <div> Martinez, Isabelle M.</div> <div> Martins dos Reis, Gui</div> <div> Mathis, Ashlee L.</div> <div> McKelvey, Seth</div> <div> McLean, Jonela</div> <div> Meadows, Liesl K.</div> <div> Meekma, Mitchell G.</div> <div> Mejia, Nathaly G.</div> <div> Meng, Tianshu</div> <div> Menjivar Quinteros, Veronica V.</div> <div> Mhindu, Purity C.</div> <div> Molina, Dulce E.</div> <div> Momanga, Richard O.</div> <div> Momedi, Macheke M.</div> <div> Monroe, Luke</div> <div> Morant, Sydney J.</div> <div> Moris, Brendaliz</div> <div> Morris, Kayla E.</div> <div> Morrugares Sr, David P.</div> <div> Morse, Jason M.</div> <div> Mortenson, Hadley W.</div> <div> Mortera Chavira, Jhoana</div> <div> Muedas, Abraham P.</div> <div> Mularczyk, Luke R.</div> <div> Murillo Sierra, Karla A.</div> <div> Murray, Farrah A.</div> <div> Namoradze, Luka</div> <div> Nesmith, Angi D.</div> <div> Newland, Cheyenne S.</div> <div> Ngyou I, Aaliyah</div> <div> Nisbett, Milan E.</div> <div> Nixon, Jj J.</div> <div> Nordgren, Joseph W.</div> <div> Novakoski, Mackenzie</div> <div> Nthengu, Deborrah</div> <div> Nwanganga, Abigail O.</div> <div> Nwanganga, Alex M.</div> <div> Nwankwo, Ekenna O.</div> <div> Nyamongo, Milkah M.</div> <div> Nyamweya, Liz</div> <div> Nyamweya, Huldah</div> <div> O'Ffill, Alec T.</div> <div> Ochoa, David A.</div> <div> Ogwangi, Malachi O.</div> <div> Ohara, Akemi A.</div> <div> Oliver, Elisa A.</div> <div> Orbegoso, Gracia F.</div> <div> Ortega, Daniela</div> <div> Oster, Soren D.</div> <div> Oster, Zoe A.</div> <div> Oudri, Sofia</div> <div> Owusu-Frimpong, Kamran J.</div> <div> Pacylowski, Katie N.</div> <div> Padulla Cisneros, Pablo</div> <div> Pailing, Jaden</div> <div> Pak, Anna Y.</div> <div> Park, Amanda Y.</div> <div> Park, Faith F.</div> <div> Park, Hakyung</div> <div> Park, Lauren E.</div> <div> Park, Lucas H.</div> <div> Parker, Gracie E.</div> <div> Patterson, Jasmine M.</div> <div> Patterson, Luke A.</div> <div> Paulino-Pena, Nurieliz E.</div> <div> Paulraj, Rachel G.</div> <div> Pelletier, Abel</div> <div> Pelletier, Alan</div> <div> Pelote, Jonathan C.</div> <div> Pelote, Joseph M.</div> <div> Pemberton, Melody</div> <div> Penrod, Sara J.</div> <div> Perry, Jp</div> <div> Petersen, Jillian K.</div> <div> Petersen, Megan L.</div> <div> Peterson, Braeden J.</div> <div> Pham, Nguyen T.</div> <div> Pierre, Madeline O.</div> <div> Pillai, Meena A.</div> <div> Pires Ms, Lanaija C.</div> <div> Piresson II, Joseph</div> <div> Plata, Hitiel A.</div> <div> Poloche, Natalia</div> <div> Poloche, Nico A.</div> <div> Porras, Nadia J.</div> <div> Porter, Chrystal</div> <div> Poua, Lilia A.</div> <div> Pratley, Valorie L.</div> <div> Profeta, Jana T.</div> <div> Prudencio, Cami J.</div> <div> Radivojevic, Ben A.</div> <div> Radziszewski, Charlie A.</div> <div> Ramirez, Rebekah A.</div> <div> Randall, Addison J.</div> <div> Randall, David C.</div> <div> Rasamimanana, Tsiry O.</div> <div> Rateiwa, Tinomudaishe T.</div> <div> Ratteray, Gabby G.</div> <div> Reid, Leah A.</div> <div> Reiner, Kalyse A.</div> <div> Reinhardt, Ryan T.</div> <div> Resendiz, Kevin A.</div> <div> Rhodus, Ava L.</div> <div> Richardi, Faith A.</div> <div> Riley, Shaelerece J.</div> <div> Rimoni, Kierstynne</div> <div> Rios, Elizabeth</div> <div> Rivera, Elizabeth</div> <div> Rivera, Jaanai E.</div> <div> Rivera Perez, Fabri</div> <div> Robbins, Braxten R.</div> <div> Robertson, Connor</div> <div> Robinson, Arielle D.</div> <div> Robinson, Tim D.</div> <div> Rodgers, Nicholas R.</div> <div> Rogers, Sean M.</div> <div> Rojas Marrugo, Gabriel F.</div> <div> Romero Herrera, Rafael</div> <div> Roper, Gabrielle M.</div> <div> Rothermel, Jenny E.</div> <div> Rubio, Sara M.</div> <div> Ruckle, Lydia D.</div> <div> Rybachek, Anna</div> <div> Saito, Haruka</div> <div> Salgado, Noel E.</div> <div> Samuels III, Rafael A.</div> <div> Sanderson, Dailyn D.</div> <div> Sandoval Castro I, Cielo M.</div> <div> Sauser, Ellie A.</div> <div> Scaffidi, Isaiah F.</div> <div> Schnepp, Zach J.</div> <div> Scollard, Kiera M.</div> <div> Seo, Andrew J.</div> <div> Seo, Lucy</div> <div> Seo, Yeonwoo</div> <div> Sharbaugh, Kate</div> <div> Shin, Jin</div> <div> Shin, Rachel D.</div> <div> Short, Emma</div> <div> Silie, Marcus G.</div> <div> Silva, Ambrosee P.</div> <div> Silvestre, Eliel</div> <div> Simpson, Kyle</div> <div> Smith, Mikah N.</div> <div> Smith Jr, Drew A.</div> <div> Smolyakov, Yelissey</div> <div> Snow, Ryleigh M.</div> <div> Souza, Raphael T.</div> <div> Stallard, Jalen</div> <div> Staples, Ian</div> <div> Stearman, Gabriel J.</div> <div> Stockler Martins, Leo</div> <div> Sudhaker, Agishay S.</div> <div> Sumner, Paige</div> <div> Suralta, David C.</div> <div> Tagarao, Hannah C.</div> <div> Taylor, Lamar E.</div> <div> Ten Caat I, Nick</div> <div> Tetelepta, Giselle M.</div> <div> Theophili, Theo</div> <div> Thomas, Dominique J.</div> <div> Thompson, Barrett L.</div> <div> Thomson, India R.</div> <div> Tillman, David J.</div> <div> Tinoco, Yoelly A.</div> <div> Tkachuck, Julianna N.</div> <div> Toczylowski, Adrian L.</div> <div> Toledo, Lucas D.</div> <div> Trigo, Samantha A.</div> <div> Truman, Moraya L.</div> <div> Truman, Reily E.</div> <div> Tuffour, Lisabeth</div> <div> Tull, Yasmine</div> <div> Valasque Saliba, Sabrina</div> <div> VanDenburgh, Jake</div> <div> VanDenburgh, Joshua D.</div> <div> Vanderveen, Ava S.</div> <div> Vasquez, Brian N.</div> <div> Vasquez Concepcion, Carlo E.</div> <div> Vega - Valentin, Alessandro A.</div> <div> Vega Bravo II, German D.</div> <div> Velasquez, Bere J.</div> <div> Velinova, Celeste N.</div> <div> Ventura, Sheyla Y.</div> <div> Victoriano, Byron G.</div> <div> Victoriano, Robyn G.</div> <div> Victorin, Adelle</div> <div> Villarreal Lopez, Mateo M.</div> <div> Vine, Christina E.</div> <div> Voroniuk, Pasha</div> <div> Walker, Levi C.</div> <div> Wang, Kaige</div> <div> Watson Mr, Jalen A.</div> <div> Watson, Luke D.</div> <div> Webb, Melanie M.</div> <div> Wee, Jaden S.</div> <div> Westerman, Reagan</div> <div> White, Angelene</div> <div> Wiafe, Priscilla N.</div> <div> Wightman, Rece</div> <div> Williams, Adam</div> <div> Wilson, Quintin Q.</div> <div> Wilson, Kierra</div> <div> Woods, Jeffrey P.</div> <div> Woolford-Hunt, Samantha</div> <div> Wright, Alex R.</div> <div> Yanez, Kaitlyn A.</div> <div> Yang, Claire E.</div> <div> Yanilla, Nicolas</div> <div> Ybarra, Aiyana G.</div> <div> Yi, Timothy Y.</div> <div> Yoder, Ethan A.</div> <div> Yoo, Krystal S.</div> <div> Youk, Jaden</div> <div> Yu, Raina</div> <div> Zavadiuk, Vadym</div> Tue, 23 Jun 2026 09:45:13 +0000 Project RENEW http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/69345 <p> Andrews University’s International Center for Trauma Education & Care, which is run by the University’s School of Social Work, extends its trauma training and education services to professionals, churches, communities and families across the globe. Most recently, an Andrews professor and student delivered an in-person training, titled Project RENEW, to 77 Seventh-day Adventist pastors and teachers on the border of Thailand and Myanmar from March 15–18.</p> <p> Julia O’Carey, Master of Social Work student, was part of the team that provided the trauma awareness training. O’Carey, who graduated from Andrews in 1997 and 2003 with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and master’s degree in education, respectively, started her social work studies after deciding to pivot toward focusing on clinical counseling for children and adolescents. Through personal experience living in Thailand for nearly 10 years, as well as her work with ASAP Ministries in Berrien Springs, Michigan, O’Carey recognized that many of the teachers and pastors in Southeast Asia could benefit from the center’s programs.</p> <p> “I grew up in Thailand and my parents worked in refugee camps,” she explains. “So I observed a lot of trauma and when I came back to the U.S. in high school, my heart was still with the people there.”</p> <p> O’Carey, with help from Ingrid Slikkers, executive director of the International Center for Trauma Education & Care, and Charity Garcia, director of K–12 initiatives for the center and associate professor of curriculum and instruction in the School of Education, was able to launch a pilot program centered on bringing culturally sensitive care to those living near the Thailand-Myanmar border. To prepare for the training, O’Carey designed and developed workbooks and other materials before field testing them in Thailand in December 2025.</p> <p> “I was able to really encourage one of the teachers and spend some quality time with her,” O’Carey shares of her field-testing experience. “I wish I could have done much more because there’s so much need there.”</p> <p> Many in the region have been affected by the Myanmar civil war that has been ongoing since 1948, occasionally involving Thailand and other nations. This led to participants attending the training in March from a variety of countries, including Myanmar, some having to travel several days to the event location.</p> <p> “The basic approach was to help them understand what the impact of trauma is on their brains and their bodies and what can be done about it,” says Garcia, who accompanied O’Carey in Thailand. “We did that by doing an activity called the ‘Brain Architecture’ game with them, where they literally used pipe cleaners and straws to build a brain and see the impact of positive, toxic and tolerable stress on brain development.”</p> <p> They also led attendees through activities focused on nature and spirituality that helped develop and inform both “trauma awareness and trauma responsiveness,” as Garcia puts it. The Stevens Foundation contributed the majority of the funds needed for the services, which included materials for the entire program as well as Week of Prayer resources for participants to use moving forward.</p> <p> The curriculum included what O’Carey describes as “culturally appropriate” and Bible-based materials for understanding trauma, its impacts specific to cultural context, and responses. The instructors discussed the types of traumas participants face as they perform their ministries in the church and in the classroom. Special prayer sessions were also integral to the program.</p> <p> The International Center for Trauma Education & Care team hopes this pilot program can be developed further and provide even more robust training and care for those in other developing nations and countries impacted by war.</p> <p> “It was, honestly, one of the most rewarding experiences of my life, because to have this dream and then see how God opened the doors and how supportive the International Center for Trauma Education & Care was to do this was a mighty blessing,” says O’Carey. “I really hope to stay involved with the center. I’d be happy to help facilitate more trainings and adapt this curriculum or empower others to do it.”</p> Tue, 16 Jun 2026 16:10:17 +0000