NCUMagazineSpring 2016

A Conversation with President Gordon Anderson

Official Magazine of North Central University

PREPARING FOR A NEW FUTURE

northcentral.edu

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I often get the question, “What is North Central going to do when you’re gone?”

I have a good answer: North Central will continue to focus on its mission as a Christ-centered, Bible-based, Pentecostal school with a commitment to academic excellence!

A change in leadership does not mean a change in mission. Just as I will be continuing my time here with a commitment to that mission, I am confident that God will empower and equip the next president of this university with the will and ability to do the same.

My personal transition is a time to ref lect. The articles in this edition of NCU Magazine remind me of many of the things I’m grateful for at NCU: faculty modeling lifelong learning through scholarship (page 10), programs achieving new milestones (page 11), alumni and students, like Tera Weyer, continuing North Central ’s tradition of missions in new and creative ways (page 20), or families heeding God’s call to care for orphans, as they’ve grown their families through adoption (page 24).

Another noteworthy transition at North Central is the departure of Cheryl Book (page 8), who served as our vice president of business and finance for nearly 33 years. Cheryl was a talented leader, and contributed immensely to the success of our university these past three decades.

Our spring graduating class is full of world-changers, ready to fulf ill biblical models of leadership and ministry throughout the world. Join me in praying for their continued success as ambassadors for Christ’s Kingdom in a world that needs His Light.

Thank you for your continued partnership in prayer and support of North Central University.

Sincerely,

LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENTNCUMagazine Spring 2016

North Central University910 Elliot Avenue

Minneapolis, MN 55404612.343.4400

Administration President

Gordon Anderson, Ph.D.

Vice President, Business & Finance Joy Brathwaite, M.B.A.

Vice President, University Relations Andrew Denton, Ph.D.

Vice President, Spiritual Life Doug Graham, D.Min.

Vice President, Student Development Mike Nosser, M.S.

Vice President, Academic Affairs Don Tucker, Ed.D.

Executive Director, Advancement Paul Freitag, Ph.D.

Chief Enrollment Officer Daniel “Dee” McDonald, M.B.A.

Editorial Nancy Zugschwert, Editor

Sara Schwalbe, Lead Designer Julian Flores ‘14, Lead Photographer

All photos by Julian Flores unless noted

Contributors Andrew Fischer ‘14

Shayna Fowler Erica Hanson ‘13

Janelle Higdon Judy Jones

Aimee (Perrin ‘94) Robertson Emily Robertson

Victoria (Pyron ‘14) Tankersley

Contact Office of Communications

communications@northcentral.edu 612.343.5001

University Relations universityrelations@northcentral.edu

612.343.4743

Alumni alumni@northcentral.edu

612.343.4143

Admissions admissions@northcentral.edu

800.289.6222

NCU Magazine is produced by University Relations offices of Communication and

Marketing and mailed free of charge to alumni, donors, and friends of North Central University.

NCU Mission

North Central University is a Christ-centered, Bible-based, Pentecostal school with a

commitment to academic excellence that prepares students to fulfill biblical models of

leadership and ministry throughout the world.Ephesians 4:11-12

Copyright © 2016North Central University

All Rights Reserved

Gordon Anderson, Ph.D.President

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ON THE COVER: President Gordon Anderson

Photo by Andrew Fischer ’14; Edited by Julian Flores ’14

Spring 2016

IN THIS ISSUE

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14

16

26

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Campus NewsPresident Anderson to Retire

Cheryl Book: Vice President and Role Model

New Leaders and Faculty

Faculty Highlights

Social Work Program Accreditation

AthleticsRams set record for UMAC Academic All-Conference

Elissa Pheneger Serves on NCAA Committee

Men’s and Women’s Basketball NCCAA Tournament Highlights

FeaturesPREPARING FOR THE FUTURE: A Conversation with President Gordon Anderson

BACKYARD AND BEYOND: North Central Missions in Minneapolis and Around the World

CONNECTED HEARTS AND LIVES: NCU Alumni Share Stories of Adoption

Alumni NewsAlumni Snapshot

North Central Then and Now

Additions

Updates

In Memory

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NCU President Gordon Anderson to Retire in June 2017On Jan. 20, Gordon L. Anderson, Ph.D., announced his retirement plans before an audience of students, faculty, and staff gathered for daily chapel. His retirement will be effective June 1, 2017.

Anderson is the sixth president in the history of the school, having served effectively and faithfully since June 1995.

“President Anderson has been quietly initiating conversations with the executive committee of the Regents, prayerfully anticipating transition at North Central University,” said Ron Bontrager ’78, pastor of Lakeview Church in Indianapolis, Ind., and chair of the NCU Board of Regents. “He formally announced his plans to the board on December 12, 2015, and publicly shared the news with faculty, staff, and students [on Jan. 20]. He has announced this transition now in order to give the board plenty of notice, assure an effective transition of leadership, and to maintain institutional momentum.”

Bontrager added, “The entire family of North Central University shares a deep love and high respect for Gordon and Dianne Anderson and their investment of time, love and self-sacrif ice through the years. The legacy they leave will be lasting, and has fruitful harvest in Christ’s kingdom worldwide. We will miss them when that transition occurs, but know we are building on a solid foundation as we pursue an exciting future for North Central University.”

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At the announcement of President Gordon Anderson’s retirement, Board of Regents Chair Ron Bontrager informed the community that the board will direct an extensive nationwide search for presidential appointment. The executive committee has secured the services of CarterBaldwin Executive Search of Atlanta, Ga., a renowned executive search firm with a proven record in Christian higher education searches and a specif ic history in the Assemblies of God fellowship.

The process is anticipated to take approximately one year, with hopes that a new president can be named in early 2017.

The search includes the establishment of a transition committee that has appointed search committee members, except for two faculty representatives, elected by the faculty.

Details and periodic search process updates are available at northcentral.edu/presidentsearch.

When news of President Anderson’s retirement was shared on social media, the comments rolled in from alumni and others who have been influenced by his leadership. Here are some of the shout-outs seen on Facebook:

President’s Announcement Lights Up Facebook News Feed

Board Chair Outlines Search Process

Amanda (Covert ‘06) Nelson “I feel so honored to have attended NCU with him as our president! Friday sermons were the anticipated chapel for me every week. I am equally sad to hear more students won’t get that experience, but I am confident that Dr. Anderson must feel God’s hand moving him and Dianne to new waters. So we send blessings their way as they move forward with God’s perfect timing!!”

Matt Brown ‘05 “What an incredible, humble, faithful, godly leader. He will be greatly missed, and his impact and legacy lives far beyond what we can ever know. Sending much love and many thanks, Dr. Anderson. We love you!”

Dan Sandeen “Dr. A, you have left a legacy of being humble in leadership and open to the Holy Spirit’s guidance. Thank you!”

Randy Christensen ’84 “If he is not one of your favorites, you probably don’t know the man. I am thankful for the investment he has made in my life and in the lives of many others.”

Trey Meadows ’04 “A generation of young adults have been greatly impacted by the humble, servant leadership of Dr. Anderson. A champion of faith in an age of unbelief, a true scholar in an age of arm-chair experts and a man of character in a time of faltering moral leadership. Both as a student and young professional in my field, his life has impacted mine and thus many more people in the future.”

Rachel Joy (Klas ‘06) Yorkowitz “Dr. Anderson shaped me in ways that I am still discovering. So grateful to have lived and learned under his leadership!”

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Award-winning album “Hearts on Fire” was recorded live at NCU.

The track, “Love of God,” from the “Hearts on Fire” worship album produced by the College of Fine Arts, was named #14 on Worship Leader’s Top 20 Worship Songs of 2015 (worshipleader.com). North Central was in good company with major artists and writers such as Chris Tomlin, Hillsong, Vertical Worship, Matt Maher, Christy Nockels, Passion, and Matt Redman.

“Hearts on Fire” was released in March 2015, recorded live during a series of NCU Chapel worship experiences. The recording features original songs by faculty and students from the College of Fine Arts, and was produced under the guidance of Larry Bach, M.A., dean of the College of Fine Arts, and Jeff Deyo, worship arts specialist and assistant professor.

Opportunities for students to participate in professional–quality recordings are a hallmark of North Central ’s Worship Arts program. In January, NCU was included in Sharefaith Magazine’s Top 20 Best Universities & Schools for Worship Ministry. This list was created based on the institutions with the best reputation for worship arts offerings, both in facilities and faculty, regardless of size.

For more information, visit: worshipleader.com/music/top-20-worship-songs-of-2015 sharefaith.com/blog/2016/01/top-10-universities-school-worship-ministry

For the second year in a row, students, faculty, and staff partnered with Hope for Dinner and changed their lunch habits to provide meals for the hungry. By eating rice and beans for lunch during a week in November—instead of a regular cafeteria meal—enough funds were raised to provide 24,980 meals, an increase of 3,000 meals over last year. Money for the meals also came through direct donations.

Hope for Dinner is a nonprofit organization that works with churches, schools and other groups to raise awareness and help alleviate hunger. Meals reach those who need them through local and international partner agencies such as Feed My Starving Children.

Worship Arts Program Makes “Top 20” Lists

Showing a Heart for the Hungry

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Just because something happens daily doesn’t mean it’s mundane—at least not in the case of daily chapel at North Central. The NCU community enjoys worship and a regular diet of speakers who challenge and inspire. Here’s a look at a few of the messages from this year’s high-impact chapel speakers.

“Don’t worry about seeking opportunities. Seek God and opportunities will seek you.”Mark Batterson – New York Times best-selling author; Lead Pastor, National Community Church in Washington, D.C.

“If we receive what He has for us and His empowerment, we have the capacity to be amazing leaders in real time.”Nate Ruch ‘95 – Lead Pastor, Emmanuel Christian Center, Spring Lake Park, Minn.

“Even when we walk through the valley of the shadow of death, God is WITH US. Do not let your heart be troubled.”Reggie Dabbs ‘87 – International Youth Evangelist

“If we educate only our minds, we will memorize Jesus. If we educate our hearts as well as our minds, we will live like Jesus.”Heath Adamson ’11 – National Youth Director of the Assemblies of God

#NCUChapel

Mark Batterson

Nate Ruch

Reggie Dabbs

Heath Adamson

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Cheryl Book first came to North Central at the suggestion of an acquaintance. She began in an administrative support role, and ultimately served as vice president of business and finance. Book concluded her career at NCU on March 4 after nearly 33 years of service.

Book will be remembered for her success in her role and her positive example, especially to women in the workplace.

Registrar Mary Murphy said, “Cheryl has been an amazing role model and leaves behind a legacy of integrity, grace, strength, and dedication. I could count on Cheryl for an honest appraisal and trustworthy guidance. She exemplified servant-leadership—an example I endeavor to follow.”

FITTING THE PIECES TOGETHEROne of Book’s great accomplishments was her ability to make her work life and home life fit together. She has a family-first philosophy and eagerly encouraged other moms in the workplace.

“As a full-time working mom, I have always struggled with the balance that life demands,” said Aimee (Perrin ’94) Robertson, administrator in University Relations and director of Alumni Relations. “A few years ago, I reached out to Cheryl Book for advice when I was considering a

promotion. She listened, gave great advice, and shared her stories of seeking balance as a working mother. It was a huge blessing that she would take the time out of her busy day to meet with me.”

CONFIDENCE AND COMPETENCEOthers took notice of how Book did her work with both confidence and competence. Diane Shirk, administrative assistant for the VP of academic affairs, reflected, “Cheryl encouraged me to value the work that I did at NCU, and to not limit my thinking about what is possible.”

Putting people first, Book left an impression on those with whom she interacted. “Cheryl has always been an amazing example at North Central,” said Rachel (Eiden ’07) Wendorf, director of student accounts. “She achieved what many women didn’t think was possible, and did so by leading through her relationships and influence. She was an encouragement even to people who didn’t know her.”

Cheryl’s husband, Wesley Book, previously served the university for 13 years in Advancement and Alumni Relations. To honor their years of service and contributions to NCU, the Board of Regents has named the conference room in the College Life Center the Cheryl and Wesley Book Conference Room.

Vice President and Role ModelCheryl Book sets example through three decades of service

Cheryl Book

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Spotlight on New LeadersNCU welcomes new cabinet members

Second Semester New Faculty

Joy Brathwaite, MSAVice President of Business and FinanceJoy Brathwaite comes from Malone University (Ohio), where she oversaw financial and business affairs. She has also held roles at Regent University and the General Council of the Assemblies of God. Originally from Barbados, Brathwaite holds a B.Sc. in Economics & Management from University of the West Indies, a Master of Science in Administration from Central Michigan University, and will complete her Executive MBA from Kent State University (Ohio) in May.

Daniel ”Dee” McDonald, MBAChief Enrollment OfficerDaniel “Dee” McDonald oversees Admissions, Financial Aid, Marketing, and Multicultural Recruitment. Originally from Indiana, McDonald has served for more than nine years in Admissions at Olivet Nazarene University (Illinois). He is passionate about Christian higher education and has a demonstrated track record of setting and meeting goals to achieve results. Both his undergraduate and graduate work were done at Olivet. McDonald also works as a professional basketball off icial for the Premier Basketball League.

Michael BundyInstructional Specialist, Math, Science & Technology

Michael Bundy is an instructor specialist for the new computer science program at North Central University. After graduating with a computer science degree from the University of Washington, Bundy spent 15 years in the corporate sector developing a line of business applications. His specialty is working on internal systems and system integrations to help make companies be the best they can be. Prior to coming to NCU, Bundy was a software development consultant at RBA, Inc., a technology consultancy based in Wayzata, Minn., and also served as RBA’s corporate services systems development lead.

Nick Robertson, D.Min. Missionary in Residence, Intercultural Studies

Nick Robertson is director of the Antioch Initiative, a partnership between Assemblies of God World Missions and North Central University, focused on the unreached of the world. Robertson is serving with Antioch at North Central after nearly 20 years in India planting churches and training ministry leaders. He holds both a Master of Divinity and Doctor of Ministry from the Assemblies of God Theological Seminary at Evangel University.

Stacy (Grogan ‘98) Sikorski, MSWPSEO Coordinator

A 1998 graduate of North Central with a Bachelor’s in Urban Ministries, Stacy Sikorski also holds a Masters of Social Work from the University of Illinois. Sikorski has worked in higher education settings, Christian academics and a variety of social services agencies in Illinois, Pennsylvania and Minnesota.

Joy Brathwaite

New faculty this spring (L to R): Nick Robertson, Stacy Sikorski, Michael Bundy

Daniel “Dee” McDonald

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Amy Anderson, Ph.D., professor of Greek and New Testament, recently published articles, “Family 1 in Mark: Preliminary Results” in Early Readers, Scholars and Editors of the New Testament, and “Codex 2193 and Family 1 in Mark” in Studies on the Text of the New Testament and Early Christianity: Essays in Honor. Anderson also taught an intensive course in Exegesis and Hermeneutics to staff and student leaders of Students For Christ-Europe during the summer of 2015 near Cologne, Germany.

Pauline Ballentine, M.A., chair, Carlstrom ASL-Interpreting Department became a Certified Deaf Interpreter (CDI) last fall. CDIs are nationally certified by the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID – rid.org). According to RID, CDIs are deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and understanding of interpreting, deafness, the Deaf community, and Deaf culture. They have specialized training and/or experience in the use of gesture, mime, props, drawings and other tools to enhance communication, and possess native or near-native fluency in American Sign Language.

Bob Brenneman, Ph.D., published a second edition of his book, As Strong as the Mountains: A Kurdish Cultural Journey (2nd Ed., Long Grove, IL; Waveboard Press, Inc., 2016 and 2007). Brenneman is a recognized expert on ISIS and the refugee crisis, and speaks regularly at area churches and events.

LaToya Burrell, J.D., associate professor of business and lead professor for business administration, is one of 20 emerging leaders in higher education chosen to be part of the Women’s Leadership Development Institute (WLDI). The WLDI is co-sponsored by the Council for Christian Colleges & Universities (CCCU) and Azusa Pacific University. It is targeted towards women leaders across CCCU campuses with various life and work experiences.

Shawn Sauve, MBA, MATS, associate professor of business, presented a paper at the Center for Innovation in Research and Teaching’s “Honors Symposium on Social Responsibility” in December. The title of his paper is “Self-Interest, Economics and Theology,” which will publish in the Canyon Journal of Interdisciplinary Studies (CJIS), to be released in June.

Bill Tibbetts, MBA, director of the School of Business and assistant professor, along with Greg Leeper, M.A., director of institutional effectiveness and research and assistant professor, co–authored “Connecting Your Classroom to the World: A Dynamic Model for Business and Leadership Education Using Short-Term Missions,” that was accepted for May 2016 publication in the Christian Business Academy Review.

Faculty HighlightsNotable activities of NCU faculty

Amy Anderson

Pauline Ballentine

Bob Brenneman

LaToya Burrell

Shawn Sauve

Bill Tibbetts Greg Leeper

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Social Work Program Receives AccreditationThe December 2015 news of accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) for North Central University’s Social Work degree ushers in new opportunities for students, faculty, and graduates associated with the program.

For Allison Roeder ’15 the CSWE accreditation means she can move forward confidently with career and education plans, giving her greater options for her choice of schools for graduate education.

Angela Volpe ’01, NCU’s social work program director, affirmed the significance of the CSWE accreditation. “In Minnesota, you must have a license to practice any kind of social work, and that license is only available to students from an accredited program,” Volpe explained. “Because we were in accreditation candidacy for the past five years, our students were able to take the exam, but had to get a temporary license and renew annually.” The CSWE stamp of approval impacts graduates as well as current and future students.

In pursuing accreditation, NCU had to demonstrate that the social work program met rigorous criteria established by the CSWE. Volpe said that one of the requirements is a 400-hour internship. The school works

closely with students to make internship placements that will be meaningful and lay the groundwork for their career experience.

For Roeder, an internship at Augustana Care Minneapolis Campus opened the door to a full-time position—offered one month before her graduation.

ADJUSTING EXPECTATIONSEntering the field full-time, Roeder had high aspirations. “I wanted to save people and be like family to older adults who don’t have family;” she recalled, “to care for vulnerable people in a vulnerable time.”

But Roeder has realized that as a social worker her role is not to save people, “but to show God’s love and be God’s love through what I do.”

“I’m learning to give it more up to God,” she said. “I look at the way I react in situations and ask, ‘Am I responding like Christ would? Am I loving?’ And then just look for the best in people. That’s what social workers are called to do; that’s what Christians are called to do.”

With North Central’s CSWE accreditation, Roeder, other social work alumni, and future graduates can move forward to do what they are called to do.

Helping seniors in her work at Augustana Care allows Allison Roeder ‘15 to develop unique friendships.

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On Feb. 29, North Central leaped into a new era of style, practicality and relevance with the launch of two websites.

The university’s main website, northcentral.edu, was completely overhauled with a new look, new navigation, and new content to powerfully reach prospective students and families.

A second website was created as an internal platform for students, faculty, and staff to house important information for students, faculty, and staff previously located on northcentral.edu. The site, called “Skyline,” is accessible only to those with a valid North Central email account and password.

The northcentral.edu site was built in partnership with mStoner, a nationally known web design firm that has worked extensively in the higher education market.

The Skyline platform came to life with the assistance of Jettison Agency, a web design firm owned by NCU alumnus Luke Frederick ’15.

The planning process spanned nearly a year, and involved a North Central team made up of representatives from Communications, Information Technology, Marketing, University Relations, and local consultants Erik Gruber and Kelsey Lundberg.

Allied Executives, a Minnesota professional organization for CEOs and business owners, invited North Central to provide volunteer registration hosts for their annual Business & Economic Outlook Conference on Feb. 23. Students from the School of Business answered the call and provided professional level service to conference attendees.

At the event, students also had opportunities to attend workshops and network directly with business leaders.

NCU also hosted a booth at the conference, staffed by School of Business faculty and staff, and representatives from University Relations.

New Websites Raise the Bar for NCU Digital Presence

Top: northcentral.edu website Bottom: Skyline website

Students Represent NCU at Business Conference

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The North Central University Chorale hit the Big Apple for spring break. They sang a solo set in Carnegie Hall, and participated in worship

services in Brooklyn and at St. Paul’s Chapel located near the 9/11 Ground Zero site. Students tell the story here through Instagram posts.

#NCUtoNYC

@emilyyhansen • N E W Y O R K • Some intense selfie-stick action is taking place all over this beautiful city.

@a_groves7 Dress rehearsal.

@tayhski Singing with Chorale at Carnegie Hall and being directed by, the one and only, Larry Bach! So amazing and such an unforgettable experience!

@kristinwileman Spending four hours in Central Park just wasn’t long enough, but singing in Carnegie Hall tonight will make up for it.

@owatermelongun 2 mins till we sing at Carnegie Hall!! Got my ninja socks on for good fortune. Let’s go baby!!

@suevera #NCUtoNYC #nowords #ncuchorale16

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Record Number of Rams Named to UMAC Academic All-Conference ListThe 2015 fall semester was historical for North Central University’s athletic department as a record number of athletes were named to the Upper Midwest Athletic Conference (UMAC) Academic All-Conference Awards.

The list released on January 27 featured 266 student-athletes from 14 member schools in eight league-sponsored sports. To be considered for academic all-conference honors, student-athletes must earn a GPA of at least 3.5 on a 4.0 scale in their semester(s) of competition. Of the 86 students participating in seven NCU fall sports, 29 —more than one-third of fall athletes—earned a 3.5 GPA or better. Over one in three was named to the academic all-conference team. In addition, 11 of the qualifying athletes earned a perfect 4.0 GPA.

The Academic All-Conference athletes respresented Men’s and Women’s Cross Country, Men’s and Women’s Soccer, Men’s and Women’s Golf, and Women’s Volleyball.

For more athletic updates visit

ncurams.com

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NCU’s Pheneger Chosen for NCAA National CommitteeJunior Elissa Pheneger, volleyball captain and elementary education major, was selected by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) to serve a two-year term as one of 24 members on the Division III National Student Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC).

All 450 Division III institutions have a SAAC consisting of student-athletes to provide insight on the student-athlete experience and offer input on rules, regulations, and policies that affect student-athletes. Pheneger is NCU’s SAAC president and will now also represent the 5,200 athletes in the Upper Midwest Athletic Conference, the  Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference, and 190,000 athletes in the NCAA Division III.Elissa Pheneger

NCU Rams basketball teams finished their season with their fourth consecutive NCCAA tournament appearance.

NCU Hoops Continue NCCAA Tournament Trip TraditionFor four consecutive years, the North Central University men’s and women’s basketball teams have secured berths in the National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA) Division II National Championship Tournament. On Feb. 27, both Rams teams earned automatic bids into the tournament by winning their respective NCCAA Region titles.

The Division II women’s national championship was hosted by Ozark Christian College in Joplin, Mo. North Central placed fifth out of eight teams in the championship, beating both Ozark Christian and Pensacola Christian.

The Division II men’s championship tournament was held in Ankeny, Iowa, at Faith Baptist Bible College. The Rams opened the tournament with a thrilling 117-108 overtime win over Arlington Baptist and finished the championship weekend placing fourth out of the 10 teams.

In addition to tournament games, all teams participated in service projects. The women served at the House of Hope and Salvation Army; the men partnered with Kingdom Cares, providing socks, shoes, and a meal for underprivileged children in the Des Moines area, in addition to giving a free basketball clinic.

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CAPTION

PREPARING FOR A NEW FUTUREA Conversation with President Gordon Anderson

As you approach the conclusion of your time at the helm of the institution, how do you prepare for that journey and for the next leader?“A key to it is to be forward-looking—to get the personal dynamics, but also the corporate dynamics in perspective. A presidency is not about this president, it’s about the president.

“There is a tendency, among older people, to think that the future is precarious, and the young cannot be trusted, and once those of us who are experienced have left the scene, then things will be dismal. I think that that is totally wrong!

“First of all, it is a very wrong-headed way to look at how God works in the church and how He works in organizations. So I am looking forward—for North Central.

“A lot of what we’re doing right now is with a focus on one, f ive, or ten years from now, and doing what I can in the time remaining to have a strong, effective, and productive f inish —instead of coasting to the f inish line and leaving things undone for the successor.”

What do you see as top priorities right now?“First of all is the mission of the university. Every organization has a reason for being. What’s important? What do we value? Why are we here? We are not here simply to teach students some stuff and pay bills and build buildings, but we are here to fulf ill a mission. North Central ’s mission is to prepare young people to fulf ill biblical models of leadership, and so we work in that framework.

“We have to have a mission, a set of values, things we believe in. These values have to be re–envisioned. They need to be clarif ied—not every afternoon, not every year, but maybe once a decade—so we’re engaging ourselves in the current world in which we live. Not the one we used to live in, not the one we wish we lived in, but the real world.

“The top priority is mission, but mission doesn’t stand alone. You have to have ways to accomplish the mission. So maybe the wine and wineskin metaphor works: the mission is the wine, but the wineskin is the structure. How do you really get it done? Simply having vision without a plan and without structure doesn’t work. You have to have both, so we’re looking at mission, but we’re also looking at the planned structure to accomplish that mission.”

As a leader, how do you respond to difficult situations and decisions?“Samuel Johnson said that the prospect of hanging concentrates the mind wonderfully. Now, applying this to myself, I am expendable. I serve a cause much bigger than me. This is not about me, it is about the greater good—whatever that may cost me. I might like it to be different, but what do I want for my life? Total comfort, total ease, no challenge, no danger, no risk? Is that fulf illing? Or in the proper sense, anything to be proud of? No. So, it may sound a little brutal, but I am expendable. So I think that’s what leaders need to do: live it, model it, and also call people to sacrif ice for the greater good and for the values for which we exist.”

How does North Central today compare with North Central historically?“The original vision and mission of North Central University—going back to 1930 [when] the school started in the basement of a church—was to meet the needs of two different groups of people…clergy, people who felt called into full-time ministry…and for other people who do not feel such a call, but want a deeper level of Bible study. It was always a both/and.

“Historically, people have seen North Central as being primarily committed to education for the clergy. At the high end, 70 percent or so of students were preparing for full-time ministry, but we have always had students who were preparing for the marketplace, too.

On Jan. 20, President Gordon Anderson, Ph.D., announced his plans to retire next June. While a search for his successor moves forward, Anderson is in the unique position of heading into the sunset of his career in higher education and the sunrise of the next stage of his life. NCU Magazine caught up with the busy president to find out his thoughts and plans as he navigates through this season of change for himself and North Central.

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PREPARING FOR A NEW FUTURE

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“The Assemblies of God has certain criteria for the ordination of clergy, and those criteria do not include college education. It’s just a part of the Pentecostal environment where we put such emphasis on the power of the Spirit. Now, I am Pentecostal and I understand and appreciate the value and the work of the Spirit, but the Holy Spirit is not a labor-saving device! There is the competency side where people need to be very competent in understanding the Bible, preaching the Bible, teaching the Bible, and understanding church missions and leadership. So we need to have a both/and [that is] actually more true to the original roots of the Assemblies of God going back to 1914, and going back to the original roots of North Central in 1930.”

You’ve said that God is doing a new thing here. What must we do to join Him in that work?“The idea of God being a Creator God—I like to use the word generative—He generates things or He initiates new things. It’s not for novelty’s sake, but in the world things are always changing. We are getting ready to transition into springtime here in Minnesota, and there are regenerative powers that will bring crops to harvest this fall. God is generative, and we, as God’s people, need to be generative people.

“So, we do new things. The world changes. New kinds of programs. New ways of doing things. New ways of interfacing with a world that is changing. That’s the way God works, so there seems to be no room for pessimism in that bigger context. In fact, someone said the opposite of a believer is not a follower; the opposite of a believer is a pessimist who can’t believe that there are new solutions.”

What does North Central do to prepare students for the challenges they’ll face in the world?“The programing of the school, ultimately, is about education for students to prepare them to live well and live effectively in the future. What does that future look like? Well, here’s where everybody needs a crystal ball—and they seem to be in short supply—to know exactly what the future is going to look like!

“We are a Christian school, and so we exist for Christian values, which include ministerial values, and ministry values—that is the role of the church in the world. That tightens the focus considerably. It’s not just about making money or getting a good job or developing a good career. That all has to be governed by the sense of what it means to be the people of God in the world.

“So then, how does a Christian school prepare truly Christian people to function in a world that is changing dramatically? That’s the integration of faith and learning, the integration of our spirituality with our employment. We are facing these challenges, and we’re doing a lot to help students f ind out and figure out how to live as a Christian in today’s world.”

What are your thoughts as you reflect on your 20 years as president of North Central?“In the book, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, Stephen Covey suggested to live with the end in view. Someday, when they write my funeral speech, I want to live in such a way that when the speech is read they don’t have to smirk. In essence [Covey] asks, ‘How do you want to be remembered?’

“The contrast between spirituality and everything else is the most important consideration any human being gives. I endeavor to be a person of the Spirit, led by the Spirit, guided by the Spirit—to be a spiritual person. That has to do with the image of God, the image of Christ…and the way God operates. The morals, the ethics, the methods—the ways of God are very different than the ways of the world. If I could have it be said and be true, that Gordon was a human being who was led by the Spirit, that would be f irst and foremost.

“Practical application of that would be a day-to-day commitment to do what is right. Not looking at the consequences, not looking at political expediency, or f inancial expediency, but to believe God honors and blesses what is right. I would rather be ‘blessable’ than have to beg for blessings. By doing what is right as best you can, God will honor it. I try to f ind what is right and do it. That’s the practical application of the idea of spirituality.”

What is your hope and vision for the future of North Central?“My hope for the future of North Central is that its fundamental mission of being a Christian, Spirit-filled, Bible-based school will get stronger…it will get better. Living as Christians in the world—that our students will

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do a better job of that than all of the people who attended here previously. That would be right at the heart of what we do.

“Also that we would be organizationally strong, but not so much that we don’t need faith. That’s the tension: if we’re so strong we don’t need any faith, we’re missing a

huge part of spirituality; if we’re so weak that we need faith to part the Red Sea every morning, that’s a bit precarious. So I want a kind of an organizational strength—not one that avoids crisis all of the time—but that being guided by the Spirit builds something strong enough that it can endure in the day of testing. Paul used those very words, ‘Be careful how you build. Because the day of testing will reveal weakness.’ So to build well and to build strength, but not so much that we don’t need to be people of faith.”

What are you looking forward to most about retirement?“I’ve been asked that, and I have an answer for it that is maybe somewhat humorous, but is actually very serious. My wife Dianne and I have said when we retire we want to see if we can be really good Christians when we’re not being paid to do so.

“There’s a lot of truth in that, because some of the context around my life is I am under obligation. I have duties of off ice. Now I hope that it is not the duty of office, but the love of God, that motivates my life.

“I have no plans and no desire for public ministry after North Central. We will retire, become involved in a local church, and live out our spirituality and our Christianity on a very intensely, local, personal level. And we are looking forward to that. So that’s what we plan to do: to be really good Christians when nobody knows about it.”

Save the date and plan to join us for an evening celebrating and honoring the legacy of

President Gordon and Mrs. Dianne Anderson

Thursday, October 27, 20166:30–9 p.m.

The Depot Hotel, 225 S. 3rd Ave., Minneapolis, MN 55401

For more details visit northcentral.edu/partners

N O R T H C E N T R A L U N I V E R S I T Y

P PARTNERS ROGRESSfor

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As Christians, we are all adopted. Iain Campbell writes: Among the blessings God bestows on us in Christ is the blessing of adoption. We have been brought into God’s family and made God’s children. From God we have received “the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, ‘Abba! Father’” (Rom. 8:15). (ligonier.org)

Families who have experienced adoption have perhaps an even more personal glimpse into the power and gift that God gives us through our adoption in Christ. Here are several stories from alumni about the blessings they’ve experienced through adoption.

GIVEN A MIRACLEAfter years of heartache trying to have a baby, Peter and Stephanie (Martell ’99) Scheff chose adoption. The Scheffs were waiting to be chosen by a birth mother when a

friend reached out to them about a teenage mother looking for a family to adopt her unborn daughter. Three days after meeting with the mother, the Scheffs were notif ied that they were going to be parents! Seven weeks later, Cora was born and delivered into their arms. Stephanie says, “I have never felt such deep gratitude; we were given a miracle!”

FOSTERING A SPECIAL LOVEIn January 2015, Paul ’96 and Candace (May ’02) Hurckman went through an 18-month process to become licensed foster care providers. One week after completing the process, the Hurckmans brought week-old Nia home with the intent of offering a stable and loving home until she could be reunited with her birth family. When Nia

CONNECTED HEARTS AND LIVESNCU Alumni Share How God Shaped their Families through Adoption

Peter and Stephanie Scheff with Cora

David and Anna Guntlisbergenwith Finnley, Solomon, and Zion

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was later eligible for adoption, Paul says, “We grieved the loss of her birth family,” but the Hurckmans and their children fell in love with her and were thrilled about the opportunity to adopt her. Nia celebrated her f irst birthday this past January and adoption became official in March.

ACROSS THE WORLD AND INTO THEIR HEARTSDavid ’11 and Anna (Smith ’10) Guntlisbergen knew adoption would be a part of their lives, but they had no idea how big of a part it would play in their family. After a year and a half of marriage, the couple felt God pressing them to start the process of adoption—in Uganda. In summer 2013 they brought home their f irst son. They brought home a second son in fall 2014, and a third son this past December, after spending a combined time of nearly six months in Uganda to complete all three adoptions. Their sons have taught the Guntlisbergens to step out in faith and say “yes” in the hardest, darkest places, where God can most reveal His incredible love and power. Anna says, “We have three boys, three and under, and are living the best kind of crazy.”

THE POWER OF SIBLING LOVESteve ’89 and Kim (Lensert ’84) Wajda began working with orphans in China almost 20 years ago. When she was 4, their daughter Amariah began to beg for a sister. As directors of an orphanage, Steve says, “Kim and I struggled with wanting more biological children and also the dilemma of choosing ONE child but rejecting the rest.” Amariah continued to beg and plead and one day, at age 6, she said to Kim, “Mom do you feel called to adopt? Because I sure do!” A few months later at the orphanage, Amariah tearfully begged her parents again to adopt. After that painful conversation, Steve whispered a brief prayer to God, which was the beginning of the Wajdas’ adoption story of Mia Jade.

A BOY NAMED JOSHUAWhen Charles ’96 and Tahnya (Blue ’97) Porter got married, Tahnya had a dream that they would have three children, and one would be a son named Joshua. Heading into the mission field, the dream was forgotten as the couple struggled with fertility. The Porters went through in vitro fertilization while serving in Sudan, East Africa, but the pregnancy ended with a miscarriage on August 13, 2003. The trauma of their miscarriage led to them leaving Sudan and going to Nairobi, Kenya to receive counseling.

About a month into their time in Kenya, they visited a home for street children and met three little babies. One boy in particular grabbed their hearts. Born prematurely, he had been abandoned in the hospital and taken to the home to die. His name was Joshua. His chances of living were slim, yet three months later when Charles and Tahnya visited, he was a healthy eight pounds. His big eyes and enormous toothless smile drew them in. The Porters soon found out that Joshua was born on August 13—the very day Tahnya had miscarried.

They agreed to foster Joshua; seven months later they adopted him. Six years and two biological children later, the Porters were in for a different kind of surprise when Joshua was diagnosed with muscular dystrophy, a severe form of muscle degeneration. Joshua, now 12 years old, uses a wheelchair and is progressively getting weaker.

The Porters say they have learned the heart of God on a much deeper level through adoption. They don’t see their kids differently—adopted, biological, African, Caucasian, disabled, or healthy. Adoption was as natural as the biological process.

Tahnya and Charles Porter with Alana, Joshua, and Riley

Steve and Kim Wajda with Amariah and Mia Jade

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Adam Sikorski

The Sikorski Family

Introducing “Alumni Snapshot,” a quick glance at the life of an NCU alumnus/a.

Name: Adam Sikorski ’03Major: Urban MinistriesCurrent job: NCU Assistant Professor, Youth Studies; ordained minister with the Assemblies of GodHometown: South Bend, Ind.Current residence: Woodbury, Minn.Spouse/family: Wife: Stacy (Grogan ’98) Sikorski; Daughter: Reghan (11); Son: Keghan (7)

Adam Sikorski ’03 applied to NCU as a student in 1992. For reasons he didn’t understand then, but now sees with crystal clarity, he wrote on his application essay that his life aspirations included graduating from NCU, going on to get his doctorate, and eventually teaching at NCU.

His f irst diversion from that “prophecy” happened when he didn’t end up attending NCU at that time, but worked in youth ministry for seven years instead. The road did lead back to North Central, however, and Sikorski earned his degree in Urban Ministries.

Describing his career path as a “zig zag,” Sikorski has held jobs with Teen Challenge, worked in ministry at churches in Illinois, pursued and attained two master’s degrees (and is currently completing his doctoral work), and eventually became director of the youth ministry program at University of Valley Forge. While at Valley Forge, he heard about a faculty position at NCU and God opened the door for Sikorski to return to his alma mater.

Even though Sikorski came to North Central as a 25-year-old freshman, he immersed himself in campus life. He served as an RA in Carlson, and has memories of “wacky stories” he thinks are best kept to himself and the friends who were part of them.

With gratitude, Sikorski recalls that it was because of President Gordon Anderson that he chose NCU. “Dr. Anderson has been and always will be one of those leaders that I will love and admire,” he ref lected. “His heart for people and desire for revival are infectious.”

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Campus Women’s Association (CWA) 1990

THENIn 1990 the Campus Women’s Association (CWA) gathered regularly to pray for the needs of students, faculty, and administrators. These women were also committed to the spiritual growth of women on campus, and sponsored the “Women’s Rap Retreat” to help women recognize who they are in Christ. One attendee said, “The experience was absolutely life changing.”

NOWIn 2015, Veritas was created by several student leaders and staff members Chelcy (Batzlaff ’11) Walker, Nicole Palser ’09, Se Young (Kim ’13) Kipp, Kristi Hedstrom ’02, and Brittany (Mather ’10) Wipf, from the Office of Student Engagement and Experiential Learning. Veritas exists to “inspire women to embrace the unique design by which they were carefully crafted and live out the truth of their identity.” The organization hosts periodic breakfast events, and on a February

Saturday, more than 50 students attended the f irst full-day Veritas Conference. Students had the opportunity to hear from dynamic speakers, connect with one another, and spend time in one-on-one mentoring sessions with alumni, staff, and women leaders from business, nonprofits, and ministry.

North Central Then and Now

“THE THREAD BETWEEN THEN AND NOW IS A FOCUS ON LONG-TERM TRANSFORMATION TAKING PLACE IN THE LIVES OF NCU WOMEN.”

NCU Magazine introduces a new feature where we will take a look at events, traditions, and activities from the past and compare how those same things are happening on campus today. Each issue will explore NCU history to see what’s changed…and what hasn’t.

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ADDITIONS

Twins Selah Yejin and Liam Yesung were born to Soniel (Han) and Ron Gabrielson ’90 in July 2015. The family lives in Plano, Texas.

Paxton Isaiah was born to Ryan ’00 and Tara ’03 Elie in June 2015. The family resides in Champlin, Minn.

Beckham was born to Kristin and Scott Franks ’09 in October 2015. They reside in Black River Falls, Wis.

Joseph Silas was born to Andrea ’04 and Ryan Kingsriter ’06 in November 2015. The family resides in Lakeville, Minn.

Judah Phillip was born in July 2015 to Lauren and Phil Holmer ’11 in Minneapolis.

Eleanor (Ellie) Joy Burdick was born to Dan and Carina (Ruhlandt ’02) Aleckson in July 2015.

Shakorra Alluriana was born to Rebekiah and Sharles Johnson ’98 in November 2015. They reside in Knoxville, Tenn.

Samuel Steven was born to Samuel ’14 and Hannah (Gordon ’13) Nevarez in July 2015. The Nevarez family lives in Boise, Idaho.

Felix Matthew was born to Matthew ’04 and Rachel (Finkenbinder ’04) Marocco in Grapevine, Texas, in December 2015.

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Eleanor Rose was born to Dave and Jessica (Amos ’05) Hilden in June 2015. They live in Robbinsdale, Minn.

Rosemary Jean was born to Nick ’07 and Jessica (Szczepaniak ’07) Dembinski in August 2015. The family lives in Minneapolis.

Christine Belle was born to Jared ’08 and Megan (Luebke ’08) Massey in October 2015. The family resides in Warsaw, Ill.

Callum Michael was born to Mark ’11 and Alayna (Lees ’11) Sonntag in January 2015. The family lives in Minneapolis.

Emma Elaine was born to Christine and Ben Christensen ’09 in June 2015. They live in Wyoming, Mich.

Everlee Ann was born to Dave ’09 and Katie (Shadduck ’10) Olson in December 2015. The family resides in Chaska, Minn.

Miriam Ramona was born to Elizabeth and Dave Mowers ’07 in August 2015. They live in New Brighton, Minn.

Cole Michael was born to Jennifer and Eric Finstad ’08 in July 2015. They live in Eagan, Minn.

Grayson Dean was born to Luke and Alyssa (Apple ’08) Kulhman in June 2015. They live in Bloomington, Minn.

Lena Mae was born to Brandon ’14 and Rachel (Ritter ’14) Powell in April 2015. The family now resides in DePere, Wisconsin.

Ruth Kay was born to Melissa and Robert Stewert ’09 in May 2015. The family lives in Colorado Springs.

Rio was born to Jason and Allison (Lopes ’08) Westplate in August 2015. They live in St. Louis Park, Minn.

Reuben Victorious was born to Josiah ’12 and Emily (Corbin ’12) Tonder in August 2014. The family resides in Duluth, Minn.

Benjamin Keller was born to Mark ’09 and Bonnie (Fletcher ’09) Von Wald in February 2015. The new parents now live in Portland, Or.

Ellavie Mae was born in January 2015 to Gabrielle and David Calhoun ’10. The family resides in Minneapolis.

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RAM-BABIESSend us news about your newest addition, and we’ll send your little one a Ram-Baby Onesie! Visit northcentral.edu/alumni/update to provide your current contact information and baby news specifics.

30 | NCU Magazine

70sBob Price ’77 returned to North Central and finished his bachelor’s degree in Recording Arts and Music in May 2016.

80sBrice Walz ’84 recently accepted a position as Marketing Review Principal for the Strategic Financial Alliance in Atlanta, Ga. He is also ordained with the Assemblies of God and is active in ministry. Brice and his wife, Marissa, live in Suwanee, Ga.

90s

Robyn Emde ’90 recently received her Ph.D. in Counselor Education Supervision. She was also appointed by Michigan Governor Rick Snyder to serve on the Michigan Board of Counseling. Brian Lane ’97 accepted the lead pastor position in March 2015 at FAM Church in Mulberry, Fla., after 15 years in student ministry. He and his wife, Dana, have three girls, two in high school and one in middle school. Brian completed his

Leslie (Troyer ’04) Trettin married Luke in 2014. She is stepmother to Nathaniel and Mariah.

Dan Wenig ’08 and his wife, Rachael, have been at Victory International Fellowship for eight years. Dan is the Student Ministries Pastor and Rachael teaches piano lessons and serves as Dan’s part-time administrative assistant at church. Their family lives in Brookfield, Wis.

Adam ’08 and Tori ’09 Haugeberg manage a 350-acre Permaculture demonstration site in Southern Missouri. Adam works for a natural health expert who is also a Christian author and speaker. Adam and Tori educate and equip people with ways to care for creation by teaching sustainability, organic farming, and alternate energy systems.

Mark Von Wald ’09 completed his Master of Arts in Counseling from Multnomah University in Dec. 2014. Mark and his family now live in Portland, Oregon.

MA in Theology at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary in 2003.

00s

Gena Ross ’05 f inished a master’s degree in Public Administration in 2010 and is expected to f inish her doctorate degree in Public Policy and Administration from Walden University in May 2016. She is an adjunct instructor at Baker University in Kansas where she teaches Business Policy Analysis. She is also a licensed Evangelist Missionary in the Church of God in Christ who attends Boone Tabernacle COGIC in Kansas City, Mo.

Danielle (Troyer ’03) Lamminen married Ryan in 2007 and they now have three children: Dylan (6), Caleb (5), and Amelia (2), and one on the way. The family lives in Charles City, Iowa.

UPDATES

Robyn Emde

Gena Ross

Dylan, Amelia, Caleb

Leslie & Luke

The Wenig Family

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We want to hear your news!Visit northcentral.edu/alumni/update to share:

• Wedding and baby announcements• Professional updates• Prayer requestsInclude your current email and we’ll also send you the monthly Alumni Newsletter.

FIND US ON SOCIAL MEDIAInstagram: northcentral_mnTwitter: northcentral_mnFacebook: North Central University

Joe Braga ’81 passed away on November 27, 2015 in Galloway, Ohio. He is survived by his wife, Debra.

North Central University extends condolences to the families of these alumni who have passed away.

Dear Alumni, I hope you’re as excited as I am reading through NCU Magazine and seeing all that’s happening at North Central!

On the back cover is a reminder to save the date for Homecoming, Oct. 14–15. We want the whole NCU family to come home this weekend and just enjoy being together again on campus. We’ll have activities for all ages, and some brand-new events you won’t want to miss!

Your time at North Central might have lasted only four years, but we’re here for all the stages of your lives! We love to hear about your weddings, additions to your family, and life updates! We want you to keep in touch when you need us, too! One of the best parts of my job is connecting alumni with one another, and with students for networking and job exploration.

This will be a big year as we celebrate the legacy of Dr. Gordon Anderson. Be sure you receive announcements and invitations by updating your alumni profile at northcentral.edu/alumni/update.

See you in October!

Aimee (Perrin ’94) RobertsonAdministrator University & Alumni Relationsalumni@northcentral.edu

Wilbur Kelly ’53 went to be with the Lord on September 21, 2015 after residing in Hilo, Hawaii, for several years.

IN MEMORY

A NOTE FROM ALUMNI RELATIONS

Updates submitted to the Alumni off ice are considered for publication in NCU Magazine based on available space and may be edited for brevity and clarity. Publication does not indicate an endorsement of any individual or organization.

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OCTOBER 14-15, 2016