Maranatha Advantage, Spring 2015

Advantage

Spring 2015

GAINING CLARITYIN A dARkeNed woRLd

CHRISTIAN edUCATIoNwoRTH ITS weIGHT IN GoLd

p. 12

A CAPIToL eXPeRIeNCe

p. 10

GoING oNLINe FoR oUR HeRoeS

p. 20

CoNTeNTS

4 Letting Our Light Shine

6Gaining Clarity

8Sabercats Summary

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A Capitol Experience

12Christian Education

Worth Its Weight in Gold

16MBU News

18Unbridled

Opportunity

20Going Online for

Our Heroes

22Alumni Focus

ExEcutivE EditorDr. Jim Harrison

communicationS dirEctor

Peter Wright

WritErS Karen Hansel Grace Peters

Graphic artiStSKristina Hendrickson

Corinne Kutz

photoGraphErTim Mielke

The Maranatha Advantage (Volume 15)

Please send correspondence and address changes to: The Maranatha Advantage 745 West Main StreetWatertown, WI 53094

©2015 Maranatha Baptist University. All rights reserved. MARANATHA COMMUNICATIONS 15-024maranatha BaptiSt univErSitY SprinG 20152

Dear Friend,

Have you ever asked yourself, “Is a Christian college education worth it?”

Though the financial sacrifices, distances traveled, demands on schedules, and late night phone calls to or from your college student may be challenging at times, we answer the question above with a resounding “Yes!” We trust you will be encouraged as we stop to consider “The value of a Christian college education” [p. 12-15].

MBU was honored to host Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker at a recent campus assembly. Governor Walker asked us to be vigilant in praying for those in public office. His speech focused on the important people in his life as well as his approach to leadership. A summary of his visit is found in “Campus News” [p. 16-17]. Our Facebook page and website share the full story.

New features in this issue include the faculty and staff highlights, ministry highlight, and student profile. Our Sabercats Summary, also new, gives the full report of our athletic achievements. We are proud of our athletes’ success on the field, but more importantly, we are pleased with their service off the field and their passion for local church ministry.

Maranatha Online is expanding its reach to the military by offering our service men and women biblical, flexible, and engaging online classes. Read more about this initiative on p. 20.

We are committed to developing leaders for ministry in the local church and the world “To the Praise of His Glory.” Will you become an ambassador for Christian college education? Will you introduce MBU to others who desire to partner with us and make this life-changing investment in the lives of young people?

We believe a Christian college education at MBU is an investment worth its weight in gold.

His for Service,

FRoM THe PReSIdeNT

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Dean of Maranatha Baptist Seminary dr. Larry oats edited the book Keep Your Heart, a year’s-length devotional book filled with entries written by seminary students. The book was compiled from devotional assignments given in the seminary’s systematic theology classes and was published in December 2014. Daily entries range from topical, historical, and exegetical in nature, providing a variety of content for the reader. The book can be purchased online at mbu.edu/seminary/keepyourheart.

FACULTY/STAFF HIGHLIGHTS

Jeff Pill received the NCCAA Men’s Soccer DII National Coach of the Year award. He was the assistant editor for the book Attacking Soccer (published in July) and wrote its opening chapter, “Individual Skills: Dribbling, Passing, Receiving.” Attacking Soccer was published by Human Kinetics and edited by Jay Miller, with whom Pill has worked at coaching schools.

Kiddie Kampus Director Layna Steuerwald led the way for the daycare to receive Five-Star Rating from YoungStar in the summer of 2014. The rating is the highest form of accreditation a preschool

or daycare can obtain in Wisconsin. Steuerwald completed training for YoungStar with University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and, in turn, trained her staff. One YoungStar rater noted especially that the Kiddie Kampus teachers “showed kindness and respect.” Kiddie Kampus is owned and operated by Maranatha Baptist University.

Athletic Director rob thompson was elected as the Second Vice President of the NCCAA at the NCCAA National Convention in May. With this position, Thompson serves on the NCCAA Administration Committee and helps to choose the Sports Ministry Award recipient from the institutions represented within the NCCAA. He also assists the Director of Membership and Compliance with awards and presentations.

ruth Steinbart received the NCCAA DII Men’s Cross-Country Coach of the Year award after coaching both the men’s and women’s cross-country teams. Under her coaching, the men’s team won first place and the women’s team won second place at the NCCAA DII National Championship in December 2014. The 2010 MBU graduate began cross-country coaching in 2013.

cara mcGrail (Help Desk Supervisor, IT) and tanner Jotblad (Support Specialist, IT) completed the CompTIA Stata IT Fundamentals certification. CompTIA provides certifications that ensure the certification recipients’ knowledge in specific IT-related topics, including PC support, networking, and servers. Sean mcGrail, Enterprise Systems Administrator for the IT Office, and Jeremy dennis, IT Network Engineer, both completed the CompTIA Security+ certification.

The Early Childhood Music and Movement Association offered dr. rick townsend a lifetime membership award for achievements made during the seven years he was managing director. Dr. Townsend is the Director for Music Teacher Education at MBU. He co-authored Engaging Music Practices, published by R&L Education in January 2015 for the purpose of serving as a textbook for instrumental teacher education classes. Dr. Townsend co-wrote the opening chapter, entitled “Shaping Readiness for Instrumental Music,” with Dr. Suzanne Burton (The University of Delaware).

dr. Kevin montney received PHR certification from the Human Resources Certification Institute in January 2014. Dr. Montney earned his JD with an emphasis in International Law from Thomas M. Cooley Law School (Lansing, Michigan) and currently serves as Director of Human Resources at Maranatha. He is a member of the Wisconsin State Bar.

meet our newest campus Faculty memberMBU’s Department of Applied Sciences welcomes new faculty member Dr. Timothy Veenstra. Dr. Veenstra earned his bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Trent University (Peterborough, ON) and his PhD in biochemistry from the University of Windsor (Windsor, ON). Dr. Veenstra worked at the Mayo Clinic Foundation (1995-1997) and the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (1998-2001). He was Director of the

Biomedical Proteomics Program and Mass Spectrometry Center at the National Cancer Institute at Fredrick (MD) (2001-2013), and currently serves as Senior Vice President of a biotechnology company that discovers new therapeutics and early detection methods for neurodegenerative diseases, especially Alzheimer’s disease. He has published over 350 works, including scientific journal articles and books. Dr. Veenstra will join the Maranatha team in the fall of 2015.

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Maranatha’s mission to “develop leaders for ministry in the local church and world ‘To the Praise of His Glory’” encourages students to serve God and people in any location. While students are involved in local church ministry on Sundays and Wednesday nights, they additionally show their love for God and others through community outreach projects throughout the semester.

Students often create ministry opportunities in an effort to get involved in the community. Current Student Body President Riley Woodfin (senior Pastoral Studies major) led a group of six other students in a community project in April 2014 that honored fallen Watertown Marine Corporal Matthew Zindars, who was killed by a roadside bomb in Iraq at the age of 21. Woodfin’s group chose to plant a Japanese Ivory Silk Lilac tree and place a plaque for Cpl. Zindars in Watertown’s Memorial Park.

The research for the project was the result of a business class project, but Woodfin shared, “No one

on our team was concerned about our grade so much as honoring this hero in the best way possible for his sacrifice.” Woodfin’s speech during the dedication ceremony made a connection between Cpl. Zindars’ sacrifice and the sacrifice that Christ made for mankind. The team also presented the gospel in letter form to Cpl. Zindars’ father, who was directly involved in the dedication ceremony and was given the honor of placing the tree in the park at the ceremony. The group’s goal for the ceremony was “to see God glorified in the local Watertown community through our role as Christians and students of Maranatha Baptist University.”

Students have set up caroling activities at assisted living centers, flower distribution ministries for shut-ins, and other ways to show Christ’s love. “We were able to serve the residents of the Golden Living Center through singing for them,” says Laura Fisher (senior

Letting our Light Shine

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maranatha BaptiSt univErSitY SprinG 2015

Humanities: Liberal Arts major), who sang Christmas carols with other girls from her society for the assisted living center in Watertown. “Hopefully those who heard and understood were reminded of Christ or were caused to think about Him for the first time.”

Maranatha’s Office of Student Activities (OSA) also connects student volunteers with community ministry opportunities. One of these such events is the annual Public Safety Officers (PSO) Barbeque. This barbeque gives students the chance to thank and serve those who keep the community safe. Students set up grills in the Watertown Police Department’s garage and take turns grilling steaks for officers working over a number of shifts. Students also bring side dishes—house salad, potato salad, and baked beans—and dessert from the Dining Complex kitchen for the meal.

Those who are not directly involved with the food preparation are encouraged to spend time with the officers while they eat. Junior Jake Fellmeth (Biblical Studies major) helped with last year’s PSO Barbeque. “In addition to serving the police officers, first responders, and dispatchers, we had the chance to talk to them about what they do,” said Fellmeth. “I learned first-hand about the sacrifices that these men and women make on a daily basis for other people.” After multiple years of MBU’s providing the barbeque, the Police Department looks forward to and appreciates the meals with the students. “The officers who come to the PSO Barbeque know that we are from Maranatha and they see the difference in us,” Fellmeth explained.

Community businesses and organizations often contact Maranatha directly, requesting students be a part of their events. The Maranatha ROTC program helps with the “Run from the Cops” race—sponsored in part by the Watertown Police Department every October—directing runners through the race course. The cadets also work with Watertown’s “RockMan Challenge,” this year helping participants complete the final portion of the program, the obstacle course. Through these races, the ROTC cadets show the community that Maranatha students are servant leaders.

Last year, junior Nursing major Emily Boogher volunteered to help with a race hosted by Zachariah’s Acres, an organization that uses a nature reserve to provide events and activities for children with physical or learning disabilities. Boogher set up the race, guided racers, and completed activities and crafts with the special needs children present. “I was able to explain that we volunteer not because we are required, but because we want to be a help to our community,” Boogher explained. “Our involvement comes from our desire to serve our Lord.”

Maranatha’s Christian worldview touches the community through students’ conciliatory service. Taking the name of Christ to others through their own sacrifices of time and resources fulfills Maranatha’s mission and brings glory to God.

maranatha BaptiSt univErSitY SprinG 2015

MARANATHA BAPTIST UNIVERSITY SPRING 2015

Article written by Timothy Miller

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FACULTY HIGHLIGHT

I like to compare worldviews to eyeglasses. Glasses modify everything you see. In the same way, a worldview changes the way you view everything else. Glasses also clarify what is unclear. When Maranatha helped me refine my worldview, it changed the way I viewed all of reality. Consequently, every aspect of my ministry has been influenced by my time at MBU.

Prior to coming to MBU, I attended a public university, and the difference between Maranatha and the public university was stark. My worldview at public university was openly mocked. I distinctly recall a class period in which the professor asked if anyone in the class was a Christian. After I raised my hand, he asked whether I believed he was going to be eternally judged if he did not believe in Christ. His tone, attitude, and disposition indicated to the class that he sought to show the ridiculous nature of my belief.

On the flip side, at MBU I saw a graciousness of seeking to understand those with a differing worldview. While the truth of Christianity was never challenged at MBU, I was taught to understand both what I believe and why others

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MARANATHA BAPTIST UNIVERSITY SPRING 2015 MBU.EDU

The Christian worldview recognizes that God’s way is always best

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might disagree with me. When embracing the truth, one can openly and cordially discuss differences of opinion. On the other hand, when truth is not emphasized, one must resort to mocking and other manipulative means to keep truth out of the discussion.

It is nearly impossible to answer what I would have believed had I not gone to MBU, but I can say positively that many of the most important lessons in my life were gained at MBU. It was here that my history professors were willing to talk about providence as well as human agency. It was here that we could pause in the middle of chemistry, physics, or anatomy and physiology and praise God for the intricate creation He has graciously given to us. In whole, it was here that I learned that everything is “To the Praise of His Glory."

I chose to pursue a PhD in Christian Apologetics partially because my experiences in public education allowed me to understand the pressures Christians face in the larger secular world. The underlying assumptions many public universities operate under inevitably challenge believers. Many times these pressures are not evident on the surface, but rather are undercurrents challenging the beliefs of historic Christianity.

While some individuals reject Christianity because of direct arguments, the majority of the time, Christianity is rejected because the dominantly-accepted worldview has eliminated the very possibility of Christianity. These sorts of challenges have inspired me to research the questions both unbelievers and believers have concerning Christianity. In fact, apologetics is as helpful to believers as it is to unbelievers. Christians, as much as non-Christians, need to know the reasons Christian belief is not only rational, but true.

In God’s wisdom He has created us to live in the world a certain way. Because of our sinful inclinations, we believe many things are good for us that are in fact not good for us. The Christian worldview recognizes that God’s way is always best, for He is omnipotent, omniscient, and omnibenevolent (all-caring). And because He is our heavenly Father, He desires the best for us. As a consequence of these facts, I trust my students will come to trust in God even in the difficult circumstances of life, knowing that God’s ways are always designed for our good (Rom. 8:28). Overall, I hope my students truly know God on a personal level.

My main goal in my classroom aligns with that of Maranatha. I hope to do my part in producing servant-leaders for the local church, which is God’s instrument of grace in this dispensation. I hope that through my classes, students grasp the fullness of the Christian worldview, which provides answers to all of the most important questions in life. I trust that students will recognize that a life lived within any other worldview will ultimately lead to inconsistency and despair.

Timothy Miller is the newest Bible professor at Maranatha, having taught on main campus since 2012. He received both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree from Maranatha before continuing his education to receive a Master of Divinity from Calvary Baptist Theological Seminary in Lansdale, Pennsylvania. He is currently pursuing his PhD in Christian Apologetics. He teaches Bible, ethics, and apologetics classes at Maranatha, while also filling the role of assistant pastor at Bible Baptist Church in Utica, Wisconsin.


national champions: men's Soccer

During the NCCAA National Championship semi-finals in Kissimmee, Florida, the Men’s Soccer team won a 3-2 match against three-time national champion Moody Bible Institute—a win that allowed them to continue to the final championship game. They ultimately won 2-1 against Ohio Christian University to take home the National Championship title. coach Jeff pill received the NCCAA Men’s Soccer DII National Coach of the Year award. Sophomore Wira Wama received NCCAA national tournament awards for both the Best Offensive/Attacking Player and the Most Valuable Player. Senior taylor pill received the Offensive Player of the Year award from the AD3I, in addition to being named to the First Team, NCCAA Midwest All-Region, and NCCAA National All-Tournament Team. Senior drew deLozier and Junior charles Leeds were named to both the Nationals All-Tournament Team and All-Region Team.

SABeRCATS SUMMARY

national champions: men's cross-country

MBU’s top four finishing Men’s Cross-Country competitors raced to receive fifth, sixth, eighth, and eleventh places overall, with additional MBU racers finishing soon after at the National Championship meet in Houghton, New York. Competing against sixteen other institutions’ cross-country teams, Maranatha’s team won first place in the Division II Team category, and several racers set personal records for the season. Men’s and Women’s Cross-Country coach, ruth Steinbart, was named NCCAA DII Men’s Coach of the Year. Junior michael Kluver was named NCCAA Men’s All-American Team and completed the National Championship Men’s 8K in fifth place overall.

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runners-up: Women's cross-country

Women’s Cross-Country received a second place finish at their NCCAA National Championship meet in Houghton, New York. The cross-country Rookie Runner of the Year award was given to sophomore Katherine vander pluym, who was also named First Team AD3I All-Independent Team and NCCAA DII All-American Team, and completed the tournament race in second place overall.

CLASSICMARANATHA BAPTIST UNIVERSITY

GOLFT H E S I X T E E N T H A N N U A L

MAY 15, 2015mbu.edu/golf

Football

coach nathan Spate began his first year of coaching the Men’s Football team. Senior Ethan Kennon received the USA College Football Impact Player of the Week award in November. Kennon was also invited to play in the NCAA-compliant USA College Football Bowl in Jackson, Mississippi in mid-January. Several professional leagues planned to be in attendance during this bowl to recruit.

volleyball

Women’s Volleyball won the Regional Championship in early November and completed their season with an overall seasonal record of 31-8. The volleyball team ranked #1 in the NCCAA Top-10 polls every week except one during their season. Senior Stacy reinke received Midwest Region Player of the Year, and alexis Johnson was nominated AD3I Rookie of the Year, as well as NCCAA DII Midwest Region Freshman of the Year award. alison renz was named AD3I Co-Player of the Year and First Team All-Independent, as well as NCCAA DII First Team All-American and Midwest Region All-American Team. Senior Emily thompson was awarded the NCCAA Game Plan 4 Life Character Award.

runners-up: Women's Soccer

The Women’s Soccer team received second place during their NCCAA National Championship game in Kissimmee, Florida. Sophomore soccer player audrey risma received the Midwest Region Player of the Year award, and Women’s Soccer coach Bryan Board was named the Midwest Region Coach of the Year. courtney dunn and audrey risma received First Team NCCAA All-American, and anna dahl received Second Team NCCAA All-American.


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Originally from Flemington, New Jersey, May 2014 graduate Joel Troutman spent a summer in Washington D.C. completing the requirements for his Business Management degree internship. After graduation, he was offered a job that allowed him to continue working in D.C. He has taken the Christian worldview taught in his MBU classes to the United States capitol, where he now influences students from around the country in their own internships.

Advantage: How did the opportunity for your internship in Washington D.C. arise?

Troutman: I've always loved the city and have been fascinated with politics and business since I was young. I was encouraged by Dr. Pfaffe [Dean, School of Business] to complete an internship and began searching for internships in Washington during my junior year. I found a company that runs DCinternships.org and has a summer program called the Institute on Business and Government Affairs (IBGA). Through IBGA, I interned for Les Miller, Senior Attorney at the Manufacturers Alliance for Productivity and Innovation (MAPI). My official title was Intern to the Deputy General Counsel, and my

main project was to do research and create a report on social media and how it related to the manufacturing industry. I also created blog posts from congressional briefings on Capitol Hill and assisted with formatting survey results in reports for different councils. I interned for eight weeks at MAPI; lived in Foggy Bottom (just steps away from the Metro, the White House, and the Lincoln Memorial); had site briefings at the Capitol, Federal Reserve, and the World Bank; and got to go to several work events. By the end of the summer, I knew for sure that I would come back someday and fulfill my dream of living and working in D.C.

Advantage: How did your classes at Maranatha prepare you for your internship?

Troutman: Because of the variety of classes that I took at Maranatha, I felt that my experiences were well-rounded. Many other student interns had a very narrow degree focus (such as Economics) and as such, they excelled in that one area but often lacked in other areas such as general communication or even resume building. I knew enough in a variety of areas that I could assume multiple roles and work on many different tasks.

A Capitol Experience

STUDENT HIGHLIGHT

MARANATHA BAPTIST UNIVERSITY SPRING 2015 MBU.EDU 11

Advantage: How did your current job open up?

Troutman: The manager of the IBGA program encouraged me at the end of my internship to apply to be the program advisor for the next summer. I applied and was then accepted, giving me the opportunity to come back to D.C. right after I graduated in May of 2014. Toward the end of the 2014 summer, The Fund for American Studies (TFAS) approached me and said my manager was being promoted do a different position. They wanted to know if I would be interested in running the IBGA program. I accepted the position and began working as the Associate for the Institute on Business and Government Affairs in September 2014. So what started as an internship through the program led to being a summer advisor for the program, which then led to running the program. Right now, I am working on the program for next summer.

I recruit students through multiple online mediums as well as attend student conferences in the area. I also work with companies and organizations throughout D.C. to get them to take an intern for the summer program. Once the spring rolls around, I will begin the process of matching those accepted students with internship sites around the city. Then in June, we welcome all the students and guide them through the summer program. Advantage: What is something that you were taught at Maranatha that you have brought to your new job?

Troutman: Stand up for what you believe, but do it respectfully. You will earn the respect of your friends and co-workers if you take a stand for something (even if they disagree with you) as long as you do it humbly and respectfully.

The following School of Business students were connected with Wisconsin Capitol officials in Madison during the 2015 spring semester to complete internship hours for their degrees. As a result of these internships, students receive valuable experience that complements their education and validates future resumes.

Spring 2015 student interns at the WI capitol

representative dale Kooyenga: David Wenthold, Jonathan McKeever, and Chelby RediskeField of Work: Budget processing and Joint Finance Committee support

Lieutenant Governor rebecca Kleefisch: Kate HalseyField of Work: Business recruitment

Senator paul Farrow: Natascha VinzField of Work: Education

the maciver institute: David HilaridesField of Work: Digital media and investigative journalism

top left: Troutman stands with his roommates during his summer 2013 internship with IBGA. top right: Troutman now manages the TFAS internship program. Bottom: Troutman and two of his TFAS coworkers meet West Virginia Senator Joe Manchin.


chriStian Education worth its weight in gold

“those educators who know God and practice a christian worldview lend a biblical perspective and godly wisdom to

young adults at a time when they need it most.”

– David Handyside, MBU School of Education

why Christian education

Christian education as seen in the scriptures is the life-long process of getting to know the God of the Bible and learning to live according to His will. Its general purpose is to draw individuals to a knowledge and understanding of God—to know Him as Savior, to walk in fellowship with Him, and to reflect His character, nature, and attributes. During a student’s formative years, Christian education takes place in local churches, in Christian homes, and in Christian day schools. Formal Christian education continues at the college level within institutions dedicated to partnering with the local church. Christian colleges accomplish this work in an intentional way that focuses scriptural application in the professional disciplines. The depth of instruction, intense discipleship, and specific application within an academic discipline are only possible within the confines of a distinctively Christian college. Consider some of the benefits of attending a Christian college that values the authority of God’s Word and supports the Christian home and local church.

Consider the benefits Spirit-led faculty and staff

Christian educators are not the only ones with access to truth and knowledge. However, as part of His gift to believers, the Spirit of God provides a depth of spiritual discernment and understanding. Those educators who know God and practice a Christian worldview lend a biblical perspective and godly wisdom to young adults at a time when they need it most.

A Christian faculty, staff, and administration “build in” learning experiences (curricular or otherwise) to prepare students to succeed in the real world. Students are pushed, stretched, challenged, and evaluated within the confines of the classroom and the broader campus community. And when students struggle and fail, university personnel lovingly mentor, support, and strengthen for the next battle.

unifying mission

Not only are the faculty, staff, and administration led by the Spirit’s direction in what they teach and how they serve, they are also unified in spirit with one another.

MARANATHA BAPTIST UNIVERSITY SPRING 2015 MBU.EDU 13Contributors include Dr. John Brock, Dr. David Hershberger, David Handyside, and Dr. Fred Moritz

This bond of unity, unique to a Christian college, reflects an individual commitment to the Lord, to each other, and to the mission of the institution.

Though diverse in talents, skills, and personalities, Christian college faculty and staff demonstrate a continuity in message, worldview, and instruction while promoting the ministry rather than advancing self. Dedication to the unifying mission causes the ministry team to pull together, departments to work in harmony together, and the institution to grow together, while providing a measure of stability and security for students and the broader constituency.

Biblical worldview

Christian education at the collegiate level is not merely about mastering biblical content, but developing a biblical worldview generally and within a specific professional context—to discern between good and evil and make ethical decisions, to defend the faith, and to engage a skeptical, hostile, and needy world with the truth. Students in the right kind of Christian college test their beliefs through the refining process of daily decision-making.

Can students stand for Christ in the Residence Halls? At work? On the athletic field? Can they defend right doctrine and take a personal stand for righteousness and against worldliness in situations away from campus scrutiny? Are they committed to faithfulness to the local church, to serve and support the body of Christ? As students operate within a biblical worldview, understanding that the Bible is the sole authority for faith and life, their Christian college training prepares them to enter the culture and stand with boldness and grace.

iron-sharpening-iron environment

Much more than compliance to or reinforcement of existing beliefs, a true Christian college education builds Christian character and develops a disposition for actively and skillfully engaging the world for Christ. The Christian home and the local church can accomplish effective discipleship, but the intensity and design of a fundamental Christian college environment cannot be replicated elsewhere.

On a Christian college campus, a student walks alongside those who reinforce the most important matters of life. Shared beliefs and goals of spiritual growth bring all together in unity. Friendships can be richer and mentoring deeper when centered upon God’s Word. Students’ time with fellow Christians spent eating, studying, competing, serving, and rooming together provides opportunities to sharpen one another through the everyday aspects of college life.

Focus on local church ministry and service

Training at a Christian college reaches beyond the academics into the realms of ministry and service. Equipping students to serve God in their chosen vocation as well as in the local church and community begins with helping students cultivate a personal relationship with God and encouraging them to act upon the teachings of the Bible. As God proves Himself faithful in honoring their commitment to serving in the local church during their busy college lives, students learn to balance life and ministry.

A strong Christian college nurtures a believer’s spiritual life through daily chapel services, Christ-centered academic instruction, local church involvement, and student-initiated prayer and Bible study groups. Campus organizations, such as societies or student body council, allow students to practice servant-leadership, and community outreaches create contacts with the unsaved. In the Christian college setting, opportunities abound to strengthen a ministry mindset and reinforce the priority of lifelong service.

truth-driven academics

Christian education places the emphasis where it belongs—on truth. Christ said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me” (John 14:6). God is the essence of truth, and this truth is revealed in God’s creation, in God’s character, and in God’s Word.

So then, earning a Christ-centered, Bible-based liberal arts degree is not an end in itself. Rather, it is a means to an end: recognizing truth, accepting truth, applying truth, and sharing truth with others. Ultimately, the training in the humanities and professional fields of study should produce truth-filled leaders who demonstrate academic competence, an exemplary work ethic, a testimony above reproach, and a heart that follows the Father’s will.

conclusion

Maranatha Baptist University exists to develop leaders for the local church and the world “To the Praise of His Glory.” Every facet of the collegiate program is designed with this exceptional goal in mind. Every process is continually honed to prevent polluting influences, improve quality, and produce pure and effective leaders.

The 24/7 spiritual forge of a good Christian college has produced quality leaders for the local church and the world for many decades. If Christian parents want to maximize the preparation of their children to impact the local church and the world for God, a Christian education capped off by a fundamental Christian college experience is a proven path to this biblical goal. It is, indeed, worth its weight in gold.

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opportunities abound to help us as pastors, administrators, teachers, youth leaders, coaches, and parents encourage students to attend christian colleges. Statistics from student surveys demonstrate that the following suggestions are effective and significant. as we emphasize the benefits of attending christian colleges, we reflect the urgency behind this important decision. So what can be done to encourage christian teens to attend a christian college?

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teach and preach on the importance of christian colleges.

In today’s culture, it is imperative that our churches and Christian schools continue to champion the value of Christian education beyond high school.

visit christian colleges with your children.

Research suggests no other campus visit experience scores as high as the visit with mom and dad. A joint campus visit opens the dialog between parent and young adult on what is truly important.

visit christian colleges as a group.

Organizing a church or school group to visit Christian college campuses pays great dividends. Research suggests the campus visit is the most important recruiting activity for influencing a student to choose a college.

Schedule a time to personally discuss future college plans.

The parent is the key counselor in the life of a teen, but trusted mentors can also help students evaluate their plans and spiritual maturity as well as the setting that would best suit their goals.

make promotional material available to students.

Colleges produce promotional materials highlighting their academic programs and student life environment. Contact the colleges of your choice for promotional materials for each of your students.

invite field representatives and christian college personnel to

your school. Most Christian colleges have field representatives who present their colleges in school chapels or local churches. Utilizing a chapel time may help initiate a conversation about a particular Christian college.

invite music groups and ministry teams to your church or school

Testimonies of team members who have a passion for the Lord and a desire to serve Him make a good impression on students and go a long way in encouraging them toward Christian colleges.

participate in on-campus tournaments and camps.

Many colleges sponsor sports tournaments and fine arts festivals along with music, academic, and athletic camps that help develop skills and expose students to the college campus and personnel.

provide a means to give student contact information to colleges.

Providing a way for students to get connected with colleges produces benefits. Schools and churches may offer sign-up sheets for students to be contacted by the colleges they are most interested in.

recognize your christian college students.

Highlighting students who attend the colleges you support encourages other young people to attend there too. This recognition keeps the students in the minds of the church family and highlights the importance of Christian college to your families.

provide student scholarships.

Attending college is expensive and many are forced to choose a less expensive option over a Christian college that would uphold their family values. Sometimes a scholarship built into a church budget can help bridge the gap in a family budget.

pray for christian colleges.

Praying on a regular basis for the Christian colleges you support keeps Christian colleges in the minds of your church family. When students see that Christian colleges are important to you, more will include them on their list of options when they graduate from high school.


mBu nEWS

Maranatha was honored to receive Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker at its morning assembly on Thursday, February 5. Walker’s speech to students, faculty and staff, and community visitors defined leadership and offered examples of leaders in his own life who continue to impact his decision-making and the way he governs the state. Wisconsin Representative John Jagler and Watertown Mayor John David also attended the assembly.

The costume and name for MBU’s new mascot, B. Snarly Sabercat (the "B" is in honor of Maranatha’s first president, B. Myron Cedarholm), was revealed at a home volleyball game against Northland International University on October 3. The concession stand sold “SaberSnacks,” cheese-filled soft pretzel bites, and the first one hundred guests at the game received B. Snarly rookie cards.

FEAR THE SNARL

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Jodi herbert, phd Associate ProfessorApplied Science

christy holshouser Associate ProfessorNursing

Jennifer meinhardt Assistant ProfessorHistory/Social Studies

NEW FACULTY

Aquila and Priscilla Scholarship: ruth Seest

Basso Family Scholarship: Kellen Farnham

Biblical Studies Honor Scholarship: daniel anderson

Byers-Price Memorial Scholarship: ariel moore

Camp Chetek Scholarship: Eric rhine, Kelly nupson

Cedarholm Alumni Scholarship: Kimberly Knudsen, Sarah Williams

Christina Hargrove Memorial Scholarship: Susan Brown, Kimberly torrey

Claron and Ina Stewart Memorial Scholarship: Kellee hubbard

David H. Farrington Memorial Scholarship: Karin Brown

Elbert M. Dean Memorial Scholarship: alisa Fortier

Elmer F. Brown, Jr. Memorial Music Scholarship: Loni Kovach

Fine Arts Music Scholarship: nathan Brewer

Helen Steinhaus Memorial Scholarship: Billy peters

Hope Pfeiffer Memorial Scholarship: Lydia Wagner

Jude 22 Scholarship: abby Kobosh

Kathleen Shelton Scholarship: Emily Boogher

Lee Jason Krueger Memorial Scholarship: amily reynolds

Marilyn Hilsen Weniger Memorial Scholarship: amanda davidson

Mary Robinson Memorial Scholarship: Flora Bennett

Psalm 78:4 Scholarship: timothy rogers

Richard G. Ellis Memorial Scholarship: hannah Greene, hannah Griffith, Jared mielke, troy prater, chantelle Schwenn

Robert Hanneman Memorial Scholarship: Keirsten copeland, Joy oliver

Ruth E.V. Hey Memorial Scholarship: amber perkins

Schlichting Family Scholarship: natascha vinz

Science Ministries Scholarship: marwa omot

Stoltenberg Scholarship: caleb Farmer, robert Sweatt, Kenton rickard, James mielke

UW Health Partners Scholarship: annah Johnson

Westra Scholarship: daniel newton, megan ruffridge, destiny Benson

SCHOLARSHIPS Thank you to our donors who have partnered with Maranatha to make these scholarships available.

rebecca Flegal Administrative Assistant, Alumni Servicespatty Garcia Administrative Assistant, Bible Officedeborah hudson Technical Services Librariancorinne Kutz Graphic Artist, Communications Officetina mcKinney Service Specialist, Maranatha OnlineBrittany S. oberholtzer Guest Relations Office Managerhannah pill Administrative Assistant, Office of Student Activities christopher riffel Controller, Business Officenathan Spate Football Coach, Director of Athletic Recruiting

NEW STAFF


Current student Billy peters partnered with Matt Taylor and The Wilds Christian Camp (Brevard, NC) to create a sacred classical guitar CD, I Cling to Christ, which was released at the beginning of November 2014. Peters worked at The Wilds for two summers (2011, 2012) and played his guitar for special services held over some weekends for campers. The Wilds has published several of Peters' arrangements from the CD in sheet music form. Peters plans to graduate with his Pastoral Studies major and Music Arranging minor in May 2015.

Jeffrey miller directed Maranatha’s Fall 2014 play, Sherlock holmes: the Final adventure. The script brought two of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s short stories, The Final Problem and A Scandal in Bohemia, together into one play performed by undergraduate cast members. Technical Director, isaiah oetken, created a 16-foot wooden water tower and stand for Holmes and Moriarty to climb up at the end of the play, creating the illusion of Reichenbach Falls.

Master of Divinity seminary student, christopher Koehn, was commissioned into the Army National Guard Chaplaincy in October. The ceremony was held in Maranatha’s Alumni Hall with MBU ROTC Major Schultheiss and Sergeant First Class Benintende participating in the event. Koehn’s chaplain recruiter, MBU alumnus Captain Jonathan Robertson, gave a brief challenge. Koehn will begin his military officer and chaplain training in the summer of 2015 after he graduates from Maranatha.

Five MBU students joined Applied Science Associate Professor dr. marcos Garza-madrid on October 11 at the Creation Museum in Petersburg, KY for its annual Día Latino. An estimated 900 guests attended specifically for the Spanish event. The Maranatha students served as translators during tours through the museum, reading the English signs and plaques around the exhibits and translating them into verbal Spanish for the attendees.

maranatha’s rotc program (Charlie Company) sent six men to complete the annual Ranger Challenge in November. The cadets comprised a five-man team with one substitute. Training for the Ranger Challenge took eight weeks, and the competition included nine events, among which were an obstacle course, written test, physical test, and night land navigation. The Maranatha ROTC group won first place in the 2014 five-man division, a fifth win since 2009.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Spring play:hide and ShriekApril 9-11 college 4 a dayApril 10

Graduation May 8 16th annual Golf classicMay 15

Girls Basketball camp Girls Soccer campJune 15-19 Boys Basketball camp June 22-27

music and drama camp July 13-17 individual volleyball campJuly 20-25

Boys Soccer camp July 20-24 team volleyball campJuly 27-Aug 1 alumni WeekendAug 28-29

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GoING oNLINe FoR oUR

HeRoeS“I love the idea of making Maranatha more available to this group

of heroes. We need to get these men and women enrolled in

universities like MBU and using the skills they have learned in

the classroom and the military for the Kingdom of God."

–Gunnery Sergeant William Hader

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“Every year more than 180,000 people enlist in the armed forces,” reports Military.com. These service member recruits need a high school diploma or GED in order to enlist, yet if they should ever desire to move up in their rank, further education becomes vitally important as an aspect of their personal improvement.

In the 2013 fiscal year, the average enlistment age into the active military was 20.7 years old, according to the Support Army Recruiting website (19.9 years old for those entering the reserves). The majority of those who enlist have not yet completed a four-year bachelor’s degree or even a two-year associate’s degree.

Through advancements in technology, Maranatha Online and Distance Learning can extend the Maranatha mission “to develop leaders for ministry in the local church and the world ‘To the Praise of His Glory’” to active duty military. Maranatha Online is exploring this new market of eligible service men and women for their online associate’s and bachelor’s degrees.

Heading up this military campaign is Online and Distance Learning Assistant Director, Phillip Olt. Olt spent almost five years in the Army and was stationed at Fort Riley, Kansas and Fort Richardson, Alaska. Evening classes were offered on his base in Kansas, so he signed up to participate in eight. Unfortunately, due to the unpredictability of military life, his entire unit would often have to work an irregular schedule with unexpected duties that changed daily. These erratic requirements kept anyone enrolled in the evening classes from being able to participate. Olt had to drop seven of his eight classes since he could not attend the evening sessions.

In addition, the evening classes did not move with the soldiers—they remained on the base regardless of whether or not the soldier moved. A soldier might be transported to a different base in the middle of a class term, terminating his ability to complete the class. “Flexibility was a major issue,” says Olt, “and flexibility is one of the most important things that Maranatha Online is trying to offer.”

Most men and women who enlist have plans to further their education once they complete their time in the military. “A significant number of those who enlist do so because of the monetary educational benefits,” Olt notes. He further points out, however, that historically, few service members understood the necessity of completing education while still in the military. “Now, it is

a common expectation for soldiers to complete collegiate education while enlisted.”

In order to move up through the enlisted ranks of the Army, a soldier must demonstrate achievement in several different areas and receive points based on those achievements. Up to 13 percent of the required achievement points comes from civilian education, and 100 credits of education must be completed to receive the full number of points. While various military branches may have differing requirements, civilian education remains an important aspect of military training and enlistment. “There’s always an expectation of continual improvement,” shares Olt.

Maranatha Online provides an opportunity for enlisted men and women to complete degrees wherever they are stationed around the world. Since online classes are available anywhere a service member has access to the internet, Maranatha caters classes to service members for their educational convenience. With Maranatha’s flexible classes, service members are able to complete assignments during any of their allotted free time before the assignments are due. Online professors often provide video lectures for students to watch, still giving participants a “classroom feel” with a teacher explaining course material. Students are also able to interact with fellow students around the world through discussion forums.

Maranatha Online has recently announced the addition of a new associate’s degree in Criminal Justice, in addition to the five associate programs MBU already offers (Applied Science, Business Management, Christian Ministry, Digital Media, and Health Science). Associate’s degrees are the most attractive option for those ready to get started, with additional bachelor’s and master’s degrees available. The Master of Divinity degree completes the educational requirements for those who wish to enter the chaplaincy.

Maranatha Online’s desire to extend its educational mission into the military world has already been well-received with active service members already participating in online classes. Gunnery Sergeant William Hader serves in the Marine Corps supervising both Marines and Navy sailors. "Thanks for supporting our troops and recognizing the need to facilitate their Christian education,” he says.

As Maranatha Online students take what they’ve learned in classes to the world, the military can be reached with a Christian worldview and biblical principles.

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E


ALUMNI FoCUS

Abrahamson, Melissa and Matt (’09): a son, Myles, born August 19, 2014

Archambeau, Erin (Jenson, ’07) and Larry (’07): a daughter, Evelyn Ann, born October 22, 2014

Barrie, Michele (Zoback, ’14) and Ryan: a son, Elias Haddon, born October 21, 2014

Brackett, Kristen (Kowalcyk, ’08) and Ashley: a son, Tyler Jaden, born July 21, 2014

Cochran, Laura (Kirby, ’08) and Jared (’09): a son, Isaiah, born October 15, 2014

Davidson, Renee (Sahlstrom, ’04) and Ron (’07): a son, Ezekiel Matthew, born November 13, 2014

Dorothy, Rebecca (Paul, ’02) and David (’03): a son, Matthew Thomas, born September 19, 2014

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Dow, Jill (Albright, ’07) and Steven (’07): a son, Joshua Steven, born August 15, 2014

Flack, Jamie (Montgomery, ’12) and Randall (’12): a daughter, Kacie Lyn, born January 9, 2015

Krohn, Courtney (Smith, ’12) and Kyle (’14): a son, Christopher Martin, born November 7, 2014

Landowski, Rebekah (Warren, ’14) and Blaine: a son, Dietrich Allen, born October 17, 2014

Lingle, Bethany and Jacob (’12): a son, Liam Matthew, born July 16, 2014

Love, Elizabeth (Gross, ’11) and Aaron (’07): a daughter, Chloe Elizabeth, born January 26, 2015

Martin, Brooke (Festa, ’11) and Brandon (’09): a daughter, Kaylee Faith, born August 23, 2014

McCarrell, Julane and Jonathan (’07): a daughter, Ava Grace, born November 3, 2014

Morales, DelRae (Harris, ’13) and Drew: a daughter, Jenny Ruby, born December 1, 2014

Mosier, Kathleen (Brabson, ’10) and Andrew (’10): a daughter, Eliana Lorraine, born September 21, 2014

Muse, Hannah (Komis, ’06) and David (’04): a daughter, Shiloh Liberty, born November 24, 2014

Pulis, Sarah (Witan, ’14) and Daniel (’11): a son, John Daniel, born May 22, 2014

Rhine, Melissa (Boucher, ’09) and Benjamin (’09): a daughter, Natalie Joy, born July 21, 2014

Schumacher, Carissa (Paulson, ’12) and Randy: a son, Elijah William, born July 3, 2014

Shevy, Jessica (Kolwinska, ’05) and Jonathan (’05): a daughter, Lola Ruth, born October 22, 2014

Stanley, Christina (Harrison, ’06) and Eric (’07): a son, Eric Greyson, born September 15, 2014

Starr, Rachel (Stewart) and Andrew (’13): a son, Conner Andrew, born December 14, 2014

Stevens, Sarah (Delaney, ’11) and Joel (’09): a daughter, Esther Grace, born July 16, 2014

Struska, Lacey (Steffen, ’11) and Peter (’10): a daughter, Adalynn Grace, born August 27, 2014

’11 Jason mcdonnell became the Youth Pastor for Tri-City Baptist Church in Chandler, AZ in August. Prior to this, Jason and his wife, Michelle, were the Residence Hall Supervisors at International Baptist College and Seminary (IBCS) in Chandler, and Jason also worked as the Director of Public Relations and Enrollment. Jason continues to teach Greek for IBCS, and the McDonnells now have three children.

Future Sabercats

’10 Katie potter traveled to Cameroon, West Africa this fall to spend her second school year teaching missionary children. She will also be leading Bible studies with national women, as well as ministering to national children. thE BiG picturE proJEct

top: Joel, Sarah, and Esther Stevensmiddle Left: John Pulis middle right: Andrew and Conner Starr Bottom: Blaine, Rebekah, and Dietrich Landowski


’11 mark Zockoll began his second year as the administrator of Faith Baptist School in Salisbury, MD. Mark also finished his Master of Arts in English from Salisbury University in the spring of 2014. Mark teaches English with Maranatha Online. Mark’s wife, andrea (Jochum, ’12), began her Masters of Science in Nursing in 2013. Andrea has worked

as a Registered Nurse at Peninsula Regional Medical Center since the summer of 2012.

Meet our new Maranatha Online faculty members.Read their full biographies at mbu.edu/online.

Michael Adkins, MA Troy, OH Digital MediaAnne Binkley, MM Salisbury, MD MusicLauren Brady, MS Gilbert, AZ SociologyLeslie Collier, MEd Poplar Bluff, MO EnglishDan Devine, PhD Cordova, TN Biology/ChemistryRyan Hawley, MBA Poplar Bluff, MO AccountingJudith Leary, MSCJ Euclid, OH Criminal JusticeLuke Love, MDiv Wichita Fall, TX BibleSteve Love, DMin Conyers, GA BibleDavid Marriott, MDiv Dousman, WI BibleValerie Riley, PhD Jacksonville, FL MEdClaudene Wooten, MEd Pensacola, FL Speech

’14 Will Brown was named the 2015 National Award Winner for the Outstanding Potential Award. Nominations for the award are sent in from around the country. The award is given to only one band director in the United States per year by the American School Band Directors Association (ASBDA). Brown has directed the F. J. Turner High School band in Beloit, Wisconsin since the fall of 2014.

’14 matt (’10, ’14) and Jenny (Fredericks, ’11) George began teaching at Faith Baptist School in Salisbury, MD in the fall of 2014. They are expecting their first baby in May.

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thE BiG picturE proJEctMagnifying Christ at MBU | Give today at mbu.edu/bigpicture

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Maranatha Advantage, Spring 2015

Documents

Transcript of Maranatha Advantage, Spring 2015