In this issue…

• Current News
• Family Updates
• Personnel Updates

Current News

College of Nursing offers COVID testing to Lancer community

The College of Nursing at California Baptist University started providing COVID-19 testing to the Lancer community on Sept. 22. Since then, an average of 40-50 tests a week have been done.

Angel Coaston, executive director of clinical affiliations and academic operations for the College of Nursing, said the idea was proposed to provide testing for nursing students who needed a negative COVID test prior to going to a clinical site. Then other departments asked if they could have students tested, she said.

“The thing about COVID-19 is it’s respiratory spread. Some people are asymptomatic and don’t even know. Or they become symptomatic, but they’ve already infected people. So this is a way to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in our community,” Coaston said.

After receiving approval to become a testing site from the Riverside County Department of Public Health, the county trained nearly 100 students, Coaston said. The testing is open to students, faculty and staff.

The testing site is open three mornings a week behind the Bourns Laboratory, next to the College of Nursing on Adams Street. Those that need a test can walk or drive up. At least one faculty and up to seven nursing students are at the site.

Natalie Becerril, a nursing student, helped with the testing. She previously had COVID-19 and needed to make up her clinical hours. It provided her an opportunity to be on the other side of testing, she said. She has learned about collecting the correct information and having a good workflow.

Muna Abuhijleh, a nursing senior, has had experience with COVID testing at her previous clinicals and wanted to help again.

“I think it’s very convenient, especially for people who live on campus. They could just walk here at any time and get it done instead of having to drive off to a hospital and go through that process,” Abuhijleh said.

Michelle Pearson-LoGiudice, director of clinical affiliations and health records analyst, said the site provides the nursing students clinical hours and an opportunity to interact with the CBU community.

“It also gives them a chance to guide people and walk them through the testing and have that empathy for what they might possibly be going through,” Pearson-LoGiudice said.

The tests are dropped off at the Department of Public Health and the results are usually back in less than 24 hours, Coaston said. There is no cost to the students or CBU.

“There’s such great reciprocity in having a partnership with the Department of Public Health,” Coaston said. Additionally, “the testing supports the Lancer community in multiple ways. If the students are negative, they can get back to class more quickly. If they’re positive, then they can be quarantined.”

The testing site is open 9 a.m.-noon on Monday, Wednesday and Friday on a first come, first served basis. For more information, call 951-552-8940.

 

Midnight Madness ushers in basketball season at CBU 

Karissa Allen, a theatre freshman at California Baptist University, stood with her friends outside the Events Center surrounded by thousands of other attendees for Midnight Madness on Oct. 22. Upbeat music blasted through the courtyard before the official beginning of the event.

The wait “didn’t seem like that much because we were with friends,” Allen said.

Students began lining up hours before the start of the event to obtain the best spots for one of the most popular activities at CBU. When the doors opened, people flooded through, ready to celebrate the beginning of basketball season. Inside, the neon lights, a DJ and Lance the Lancer encouraged cheering and team spirit.

Midnight Madness featured routines by the CBU cheer and dance teams, an introduction to both the men’s and women’s basketball squads, a 3-point shooting contest and a dunk competition.

“There was fog … and the players would come out with sunglasses. it made me think, ‘Woah, they’re so cool,’” Allen said. “It was a good chance to go with friends and be loud.”

The upcoming basketball season will be the Lancers’ final year in its four-year transition to NCAA Division I.

Rick Croy, men’s basketball head coach, spoke excitedly about how it was possible to meet in person to welcome the new season again.

“It is truly great to be back,” he said.

Last season, the women’s team won the Western Athletic Conference regular-season championship, the WAC Tournament Championship and advanced in a postseason tournament, ending the season 26-1. Jarrod Olson, women’s basketball head coach, received the Kay Yow Coach Of the Year Award, which is presented annually to the top coach of women’s Division I college basketball.

The men’s basketball team reached its first-ever WAC Tournament and finished the season at 13-10 overall and 6-6 in conference play. Croy recorded his 300th career win in December—making him one of the youngest coaches in college hoops with that accomplishment.

CBU’s women tip off their season on Nov. 9 at the University of California, Riverside. The men host San Francisco State on Nov. 9 for their first game.

View the entire women’s basketball schedule here.

View the entire men’s basketball schedule here.

 

Aviation science students have opportunity to meet legend

Six students in the aviation program at California Baptist University had the opportunity to meet an aviation legend on Oct. 22.

A donor gave tickets for the students to attend Champions of Flight at the March Field Air Museum, which honored Dick Rutan. The event honors an individual or organization’s significant achievement in support of aviation and/or aerospace, according to the museum website.

Rutan served in the U.S. Air Force, achieving the rank of lieutenant colonel. He earned a number of accolades including the Silver Star, five Distinguished Flying Crosses, 16 Air Medals and the Purple Heart. He flew 325 combat missions in the Vietnam War. He also made the first nonstop, non-refueling, around-the-world flight in the Voyager aircraft. He did so in nine days in December 1986, and his flight still holds the world record.

Lauren Shelfo, an aviation flight senior, said hearing Rutan’s story reminded her that following one’s dreams requires hard work and perseverance. Rutan and his team spent years in the desert researching, constructing the aircraft and conducting test flights while preparing for the world flight.

“Great accomplishments do not come easy. The path to accomplishment is inevitably paved with trials,” Shelfo said. “One mustn’t assign emotional weight to failure to the point that he or she cannot brush it off and try again. Even after years of preparing and finally taking off, Dick Rutan experienced trials during the flight as well. Every time he almost aborted, he heard his mother’s voice tell him not to quit. The only time you fail is when you give up or don’t try.”

Patrick Shaneck, an aviation management senior, said Rutan’s bravery and determination impacted him.

“One thing that I learned from his story is that no matter the circumstances, even when they appear grim, there is always the possibility of success if you are motivated and down-to-the-bone determined,” Shaneck said.

 

Lecture looks at the challenges the pandemic revealed 

Although the pandemic caused problems in society, it also demonstrated that some issues facing minority and disadvantaged communities are fixable, Damien O’Farrell told an audience at California Baptist University on Oct. 21.

“We make choices to change things or leave them the way they are,” O’Farrell said.

He spoke at the Culture and Justice Lecture Series sponsored by the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences at CBU. O’Farrell is the president and CEO of Parkview Legacy Foundation, which addresses social determinants of health in order to promote wellness in society. He was joined by Kim Saruwatari, director of the Riverside County Department of Public Health, and Corey Jackson, CEO of SBX Youth and Family Services, an organization that works to break the cycle of poverty and violence.

During the lecture, the three discussed the ways in which the COVID-19 pandemic negatively impacted people, such as by shutting down schools, which took away education from children and childcare from many parents who were then unable to work.

“Our economy cannot function without a childcare system,” Jackson said.

Attempting to work and educate kids at home is not the only problem, O’Farrell said. Inflation and wages that are not keeping up are causing hard-working members of society to become poorer.

Additionally, rent and mortgage costs have gone up so high that many families in Riverside have had to choose what necessities to sacrifice, O’Farrell said.

O’Farrell shared several graphs during the lecture showing the differences between incomes and COVID-19 deaths in Black, Latino, white, Native American, Asian American and Pacific Islander communities. The graphs showed worse outcomes for the majority of the non-white population of Riverside.

“I knew about social determinants of health. I knew about disparities. But when you’re watching them being lived out in the middle of a crisis, and you‘re seeing people suffer, and there’s so little that you can do to help people, it’s really hard,” Saruwatari said.

Saruwatari said there was a big increase in people seeking mental health services and not enough providers.

“There’s definitely difficulty coping,” Saruwatari said, adding that there has been an increase in substance abuse and other indicators of declining mental health.

Telehealth for counseling and other forms of mental health treatment was once thought to be impossible, but when the pandemic hit, professionals were proven wrong as they put systems into place to continue to serve their communities, Saruwatari said.

“Our civic infrastructure has a lot to work on,” O’Farrell said.

O’Farrell further discussed how the homeless were put in hotels, something else people claimed could not be done.

The speakers emphasized that the struggles society faces can be fixed if people work together to devise and implement solutions.

“We’re all good people here. We just need to find the courage to step up,” Jackson said.

 

CBU ranked among nation’s fastest-growing colleges in report 

California Baptist University ranked No. 7 among the fastest-growing colleges in the United States in a list published by a leading higher education news organization.

CBU’s top-10 ranking appears in “Almanac 2021-22” published by the Chronicle of Higher Education and reflects the institution’s 10-year enrollment growth from 2009 through 2019.

In 2009, CBU enrollment totaled 4,103 students. A decade later, in 2019, enrollment at CBU was 11,045 students, an increase of 169%.

Dr. Ronald L. Ellis, president of California Baptist University, said the ranking is a significant indicator about the institution’s growth.

“The Chronicle Almanac ranking reflects CBU’s continuing focus on developing and offering educational programs that students are looking for,” Ellis said. “It is an affirmation that our efforts are producing positive results.”

The No. 7 ranking compared CBU with other private nonprofit institutions classified as “Master’s Colleges & Universities” in the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. Among the 347 institutions in that classification, enrollment growth averaged 14.2 percent over the same 10-year period.

In preparing its report, the Chronicle of Higher Education analyzed U.S. Department of Education data “based on a fall head count of full- and part-time undergraduate and graduate students at public and private nonprofit degree-granting institutions with at least 500 students in 2009.”

CBU enrollment has continued to grow. In 2021, fall enrollment at CBU totaled 11,491 students.

 

CBU campus media earn multiple national awards

California Baptist University’s Lancer Media Group kicked off another award-winning season by earning 10 Pinnacle Awards from the College Media Association and four Pacemaker Awards from the Associated Collegiate Press on Oct. 14 and 15.

At the Pacemaker Awards, the 2021 yearbook cover for Angelos yearbook, created by Eunice Hahn and Hannah Siefkes with the theme of “Adapt,” won first place for Best Yearbook Cover. The yearbook team also took home a first-place design award for its COVID-19 coverage, and Hahn earned first place for Best Yearbook Division Spread for a divider page featuring the College of Architecture, Visual Arts and Design. The Banner was a finalist for Newspaper of the Year, a highly competitive category.

At the Pinnacle Awards, Pursuit magazine finished in third place for Four-Year Feature Magazine of the Year, as well as third place for Best Magazine Entertainment Spread for an illustration of the artist Selena designed by Emilie Thomas. Sofia Eneqvist and Luc Stringer each took home second place awards for Best Photo Illustration and Best Portrait, respectively, for their work in Pursuit and Angelos.

CBU TV’s Ivania Montes and Wyatt Mitchison won honorable mentions at the Pinnacle Awards for Best Video Entertainment Program and Best Video Sportscast. CBU TV also took home fourth place in the Best of Show Awards for Best Broadcast News Program.

Dr. Mary Ann Pearson, interim director of student publications, said the group never fails to take home high honors at national conferences. Lancer Media Group consists of more than 70 students producing multiple publications.

“We are so proud of the team’s hard work,” Pearson said. “Lancer Media Group continues to excel, and we could not be prouder.”

Elijah Tronti won fifth place for his comic strip “Lancer Life” in The Banner and Elijah Hickman won first place in photojournalism during the Best of Show Awards for his photo “CBU welcomes students back in person.” Phillip Ndowu’s “A Call for Justice” photo took home second place in the best general news photo category.

The awards were announced during the Fall National College Media Convention, which was held virtually.

“Working throughout the pandemic presented challenges, and the students met those challenges with hard work, dedication and diligence,” Pearson said.

 

Family Updates

Dr. Virgo Handojo, professor of psychology, presented a national webinar hosted by the Maranatha Christian University, Bandung, Indonesia on Sept. 8. It was titled Building child and Parent Attachment during Pandemic Covid 19. He also presented a webinar organized by Lembaga Konseling Keluarga Kreative (Creative Family Counseling Institute) on Sept 27. It was titled Assessment and Treatment of Sexual Disorders.

 

 

 

The College of Behavioral and Social Sciences participated in a partnership with Habitat for Humanity to do a wall raising for the Mulberry Village project in Riverside on Oct. 2. Ten faculty participated: Dr. Jacqueline Gustafson, dean of the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences; Dr. Charles Lee-Johnson, associate professor social work; Adrienne Knabb, visiting professor of psychology; Dr. Veola Vazquez, professor of psychology; Dr. Nathan Iverson, associate professor of psychology; Dr. Antonio Mejico Jr., assistant professor of social work; Dr. Doug Wallace, associate professor of sociology; Dr. Josh Fuller, assistant professor of industrial-organizational psychology; Dr. Viola Lindsey, associate professor social work; and Dr. Aine Bergin, assistant professor of psychology. Three houses were frame finished. The following weekend, 20 social work students continued the efforts.

 

 

The College of Engineering hosted the SoCal Society of Automotive Engineers Student Workshop on Oct. 9. Alongside CBU’s own SAE team, the workshop brought in teams from Santa Barbara to San Diego to hear from speakers in preparation for next year’s competition.

 

 

 

Russell Meek, adjunct professor of Christian Studies for Online and Professional Studies, had several papers published. “Was This Not My Concern?”: Jonah and (Anti-)Theodicy was published in the Journal of Language, Culture, and Religion (2021). Journeying toward Justice was published in Pace (2021). Sputtering at the Start Line? Examining Trends in Theological Interpretation of Scripture through Three Theological Commentaries on Ecclesiastes was published in Bulletin for Biblical Research (2021).

 

 

Dr. Dennis K. Bideshi, professor of biology, has been elected to serve on the editorial committee of the journal Current Trends on Biotechnology and Microbiology.

 

 

 

 

Philip Breitenbucher, assistant professor of social work, and Russ Bermejo, lecturer of social work, presented virtually at the National Association of Social Workers, California Chapter on Oct. 15.  The title of the presentation was Improving equity and inclusion for families of color in community-based programs. The session featured their research published in the Journal for Advancing Justice. Additionally, Breitenbucher and Krystal Sapien, Master of Social Work ’21, presented a workshop, Applying lessons from past national disasters and students and staff return to school.

 

 

Dr. Cammy Purper, professor of education, and Dr. Yvonne Thai, associate professor of sociology, both for Online and Professional Studies, presented at the National Association for the Education of Young Children Annual Conference on Oct. 15. The presentation was titled Understanding and Responding to the Challenges of Early Childhood Teachers’ Emotional Labor With Mindfulness Strategies.

 

 

 

Seven CBU photography students and alumni have been awarded Honorable Mentions in the 2021 edition of the International Photography Awards. The awards conduct an annual competition for professional, amateur and student photographers on a global scale. An international jury of photography experts judged 13,000 entries from 120 countries. The students and alumni are Raymond Alva, David Ardill, Cassandra Behrendt, Alicia Berardelli, Ashley Chruszcz, Marina Griffin and McKenna Watson.

 

 

Dr. Mark Kling, associate professor of criminal justice, and Dr. Linda-Marie Sundstrom, associate professor of public administration, both for Online and Professional Studies, had an article published in the PA Times on Oct. 9. It was titled Rising Crime: The Consequence of No Consequences.

 

 

 

Dr. Daniel Prather, professor of aviation science, made three presentations at the University Aviation Association Conference held in Memphis, Tennessee, on Oct. 6-8. They were titled UAA 2021 Employment Survey Results; Creating Industry Engagement Opportunities for Students; and Business Aviation Wrestles with a COVID Vaccine Mandate.

 

 

 

Dr. Jeff McNair, professor of education, provided a training in disability/disability ministry/biblical perspectives on disability at Bethel Church in North Platte, Nebraska, on Oct. 16. He also gave the sermon the following day.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Viola Lindsey, associate professor of social work, was appointed to the First 5 Children and Families Advisory Committee for Riverside County District 1. Her term ends August 2023.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Marc Weniger, professor of business, and Dr. Joel Bigley, associate professor of business, were selected to present at the Best of Regions ACBSP (Accreditation Counsel for Business Schools and Programs) virtual fall conference on Oct. 14. The title of the presentation was Experiential Case Study Optimization through Engagement.

 

 

 

Mary Ann Stahovich, assistant professor of physician assistant studies, took part in a podcast on Sept. 13. It was titled Using Aquifer Cases in Women’s Health and Behavioral Medicine.

 

 

 

 

Adrian White, adjunct professor of photography, is curator of an exhibit at the Creative Exchange in Los Angeles. It is titled Remembering Together. The exhibit includes work by Marina Griffin (’21).

 

 

 

 

Amanda Madrid, assistant professor of nursing, and Dr. Ogbochi McKinney, associate professor of public health for Online and Professional Studies, were panelists for a virtual fireside chat for myCovidMD on Sept. 25. The panel addressed the topic How to talk with friends and family about getting vaccinated.

 

 

 

Dr. Effat Zeidan Hatoum, assistant professor of general education for Online and Professional Studies, was invited to be a panelist at a joint event hosted by Emerging Scholars Network, Women in the Academy and Professions, and Christian Women in Science on Oct. 2. The panelists shared experiences and advice as women called by God into science. Additionally, Hatoum presented at the 43rd Annual Association for Interdisciplinary Studies Virtual Conference on Oct. 14. The presentation was titled Nanotechnology at the Forefront of Combatting the COVID-19 Pandemic.

 

 

Tyler Powell, flight instructor II, received his Master Certified Flight Instructor Accreditation by the National Association of Flight Instructors. The accreditation is a national accreditation that may be earned by aviation instructors and educators based upon a system of advanced professional standards and peer review.

 

 

 

Dr. Jennifer Cruz, assistant professor of music, published an article in the California Music Teacher (Fall 2021). The title was Can You Hear Me Now: Helping Music Students Overcome Distraction.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Mary Ann Pearson, professor of communication studies, presented research at the University of New Mexico Mentoring Conference on Oct. 19. The presentation title was Mentoring in a Hybrid, Pandemic Environment with the Adversity Quotient.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Bryan Ness, professor of communication sciences and disorders, Dr. Akua Amankwaah, associate professor of nutrition and food sciences, and Cathy Chang Letherer, associate professor of physician assistant studies, provided a forum at the virtual Mt. San Antonio Gardens Virtual Health Fair on Oct. 16. Students from CBU and Keck Graduate Institute participated.

 

 

 

Dr. Jack Ballard, adjunct professor of music, won the Festival Fresco’s Composition Competition for his composition Agitation for piano trio. He also was named one of the top three finalist in the Robin Johnson Composition Competition (Manchester, United Kingdom) for his choral piece Bemist, Enmist.

 

Personnel Updates

 

In this issue…

• Current News
• Family Updates
• Personnel Updates

Current News

CBU theatre program back on stage with ‘Silent Sky’

After being closed for more than 18 months because of the pandemic, the curtain will go up this week in the Wallace Theatre at California Baptist University. “Silent Sky” opens the theatre program’s 2021-22 season.

“Silent Sky” is based on the true story of Henrietta Leavitt and the women who worked at the Harvard Observatory at the turn of the 20^th century. The women were tasked with charting the stars for male astronomers. Leavitt’s research eventually led to astronomers being able to measure the distance to faraway galaxies, informing the work of Edwin Hubble and others. While a brilliant, determined pioneer, she must fight for recognition in the man’s world of turn-of-the-century astronomy.

“It’s a play about a woman kind of being held back by her society in her times,” said Frank Mihelich, associate professor of theatre and director of the play.

The play, published in 2015, was written by Lauren Gunderson, one of the most-produced playwrights in America. The storyline deals with a timely topic, Mihelich said.

“How do we engage in healthy ways in this wider conversation that we’re having around gender? I think living in the wake of the Me Too movement, debate can be done in a healthy way, and it can be done in a destructive way. I think we as Christians can model a healthy way,” Mihelich said.

The stage at CBU was not quiet the entire time of the pandemic. The theatre program produced two productions that it filmed for streaming. But Mihelich said he hopes audience members will feel comfortable coming back.

“I was hoping when [the shutdown] was all done, that theatres would explode because people just want to be around other people,” Mihelich said. “What makes theatre theatre is the in-personness of it.”

Jolene Automo, a theatre senior who plays Henrietta Leavitt, said it has been fun to be back with friends rehearsing and preparing for a show.

“Being the first in-person production after COVID, I am just so excited to feel that adrenaline rush that comes with live performance,” Automo said.

She also said she hopes the audience members will learn something from the play.

“If the audience only takes one thing out of the performance, [I hope] it’s to keep dreaming and not allow obstacles to stop you from wondering what else is out there,” Automo said.

Michael Cohen, a theatre sophomore, plays Peter Shaw, Henrietta’s love interest and fellow astronomer.

“Lauren Gunderson is a beautiful playwright and to do a piece of her work has taught me how precious words and human thought are,” Cohen said.

Cohen said he cannot wait to see people back in the theatre.

“Being the first performance back in the Wallace with a live audience has brought me so much joy and excitement in the idea we can start to tell stories of beautiful people and ideas,” Cohen said. “I hope audiences walk away with a sense of family, love and reliability. These characters show us what we want to do with our dreams and goals in life.”

When: Oct. 15-16, Oct. 21-23 at 7:30 p.m.; Oct. 16 and 23 at 2 p.m.
Where: Wallace Theatre, California Baptist University, 8432 Magnolia Ave., Riverside, CA, 92504
Tickets or questions? Call the theatre box office at 951-343-4319 or email: mhyde@calbaptist.edu

 

Lecturer talks about equality for women in leadership 

Men and women have God-given qualities that they should be allowed to use to bless others, regardless of their gender, Dr. Heather Williams told an audience at California Baptist University on Oct. 12.

“God would not have given you gifts, talents and strengths for you not to use them,” she said.

Williams spoke at the Dr. Paul and Annie Kienel Leadership Institute’s Leadership Seminar Series. She talked about the barriers women face in management positions and how men and women can work toward equality. Williams is the executive director of personnel services at the Riverside County Office of Education and the human resources president of the Association of California School Administrators.

The lecture began with statistics regarding differences between the numbers of men and women in leadership positions. In 2019, 40% of businesses were owned by women; in Fortune 500 companies, there are only 41 female CEOs, or about 8%. For every 100 men who get promoted to entry-level management positions, 79 women get promoted.

“Think manager, think man,” Williams said, adding that when people think of police officers, CEOs or others in a position of power, people think of men.

Williams advised women to step out of the office and engage with male coworkers at social events like lunch and sports games to make themselves visible, despite many women’s natural tendency to choose to work through lunch breaks and other gatherings.

“There’s no award for ‘Overworked Female of the Year,’” she said.

Williams recommended that women seek out mentors with integrity and skill in their industry to help develop their own skills.

“Being a mentor increases your network, too,” she said.

Mothers are frequently assumed to be less dedicated and capable leaders because they have children, Williams said. She said that mothers can both hold management positions and parent their children. She did it herself as a single mother of two who also raised her nephew, all while getting her doctorate.

There are several things men can do to promote equality in the workplace: calling out the derogatory language used to describe female leaders, supporting the women around them, and considering whether they would want their sisters or daughters to be treated the way they see other women treated, Williams advised.

“Men, don’t just say stuff, do stuff,” she said.

 

Team wins physician assistant challenge bowl for fourth time 

CBU students Neil Soriano (from left), Philip Pytak and Ryan Van Liew competed in the California Academy of Physician Assistants Student Challenge Bowl.

Riverside, Calif. (Oct. 13, 2021) – Students in the physician assistant studies graduate program at California Baptist University were faced with this question: A 4-year-old boy is diagnosed with viral rhinitis. What is the most common cause of viral rhinitis?

That was the final question the team of CBU students answered to win the California Academy of Physician Assistants (CAPA) Student Challenge Bowl on Oct. 9. (The answer: rhinovirus.)

This is the fourth time in five years that CBU students won the event.

Students in CBU’s physician assistant studies graduate program made up one of 12 teams competing in the CAPA bowl. In the final round, CBU faced Chapman University and Loma Linda University and came out on top.

“This win continues the exciting recognition for CBU and our PA program,” said Mary Ann Stahovich, assistant professor of physician assistant studies. “This award is all the more remarkable since students learned these concepts in the midst of the pandemic last year. Their win speaks to both the program’s deep determination to optimize student education coupled with the student’s keen abilities and perseverance.”

The event took place virtually again this year. The teams had to wait for the entire question to be read and then buzz in fast enough to answer it first. Teams scored 100 points for each correct answer and lost 100 for each incorrect one.

Neil Soriano, Philip Pytak and Ryan Van Liew made up the CBU team. Last month each was in a different clinical rotation. With each studying for their respective end-of-rotation exam, they took a divide and conquer strategy preparing for the event.

“I learned that I still have so much to learn! I also learned that my professors weren’t kidding when they would stress an important topic throughout our didactic year—‘You’ll want to remember this.’ They were definitely right about many topics we encountered,” Van Liew said.

“Even though I held myself responsible for knowing as much content as I could, I learned to recognize my own limitations and have faith in my teammates,” Pytak said. “I can’t and won’t always know everything, but I can rely on others just as much as I can help them in order to achieve something greater than any of us alone.”

Soriano said a big challenge during the event was the buzzer.

“Making sure to avoid buzzing in early at the risk of getting penalized while still trying to buzz in before the other team was an added layer of stress,” Soriano said.

Van Liew said another challenge was the ambiguity in some of the questions.

“We couldn’t always be sure of which answer they might be looking for. For this reason, we chose not to answer several questions to avoid penalty,” Van Liew said.

With CBU’s record in the CAPA bowl, the team members said their main goal was not to be eliminated in the first round.

“We felt immense pressure. We wanted to avoid disappointing our program and our cohort,” Soriano said. “After passing the first round, we were all relieved that we accomplished our goal. Winning was icing on the cake!”

“I am grateful for the trust and support of our professors and classmates,” Pytak said. “They had more confidence in us than we may have had in ourselves. I remember watching CBU’s team last year and being impressed with their extensive knowledge, so it feels surreal to now be part of the winning team this year.”

 

Fletcher Jones Foundation Endowed Professor is named

Dr. Erin Smith, associate professor of psychology, has been named the Fletcher Jones Foundation Endowed Professor of Research at California Baptist University.

“I am excited by the opportunities this position presents and humbled by the support of the university in selecting me to help shape CBU’s research culture,” Smith said.

The professorship is funded with a $600,000 grant from the Fletcher Jones Foundation. CBU matched this with institutional funds as part of the endowment matching program, creating a $1.2 million permanent endowment.

“CBU is incredibly grateful for the gift,” said Dr. Charles Sands, provost and vice president for Academic Affairs.

The professor role will involve leadership, administrative and academic responsibilities, including: providing leadership in cultivating a culture of research and scholarship at CBU; and developing and enacting strategies and programs to enhance the research environment and opportunities in the university.

Sands said Smith fit the role with her experience as director of research for the Center for the Study of Human Behavior within the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences and by representing CBU in scholarly forums on science and religion.

“Dr. Smith has an extensive background in the areas of research and scholarship. She will provide leadership in cultivating a culture of research and scholarship at CBU,” Sands said.

Smith started teaching at CBU 10 years ago and became director of research for the Center for the Study of Human Behavior five years ago.

“In many ways, my tasks as the Fletcher Jones Endowed Professor of Research will be an extension of what I have started in the CSHB—helping faculty with their next steps in research,” Smith said. “However, this position will afford me a different vantage point of faculty expertise across the campus. I hope that this campus-eye view will be fruitful in the cultivation and flourishing of important multidisciplinary work to address some of the most pressing issues facing our culture.”

Smith said CBU is well-poised to pursue meaningful multidisciplinary research.

“I’m looking forward to being in a position where I can support faculty as they engage research in pursuit of their calling—their purpose—and I’m looking forward to seeing how the research at CBU might be leveraged in new and exciting ways for God’s glory,” Smith said.

 

Author lectures on the revival dimension in ministry 

Speaking on the ministry of the gospel, Dr. Ray Ortlund asked California Baptist University audience members, “is there a revival dimension in your ministry?”

“The Bible calls [revival] times of refreshing from the presence of the Lord,” Ortlund said. “I believe that God loves to give new beginnings that we don’t deserve and we cannot cause. We in our weakness, we in our failure, we in our impasse are met by God with new mercies.”

Ortlund is the president of Renewal Ministries and a council member of The Gospel Coalition. He also served as lead pastor at Immanuel Church in Nashville, Tennessee, and is the author of multiple books. He spoke as part of the School of Christian Ministries Lecture Series at CBU on Sept. 28.

Quoting theologian J. I. Packer, Ortlund urged audience members not to neglect the revival dimension in their ministry. He also expounded on Psalm 85, which says in verse 6, “Will you not revive us again, that your people may rejoice in you?”

“I define revival as the ordinary ministry of the gospel under extraordinary divine power, liberating believers and compelling the attention of the world,” he said.

Ortlund said he believes ministry flows in two ways. The first is the ordinary yet powerful and fruitful gospel ministry. The second is God giving the privilege of extraordinary ministry, called revival.

“Revival is the normal ministry of the gospel just going into warp speed,” Ortlund said. “Revival is not a matter of us being superior. Revival is God himself coming down and pushing the fast-forward button.”

The difference between ordinary and extraordinary ministry is not a different kind of power but in the degree of power, Ortlund said.

“We’re always on this ministry continuum of amazingness,” Ortlund said. “Revival is when God, for his own glory, moves us along the continuum of amazingness into astonishing amazingness. He comes upon us and upon our churches and our ministries, so that our churches accomplish in three months what we thought would require 30 years.”

God is able to surprise us, Ortlund said. He is able not only to bless our work, but He is able to take up the work in His own hands so He alone gets the glory.

“What we see all over the Bible from cover to cover is God simply being God to us. Involving but outperforming us,” Ortlund said. “The Bible is the story of our weakness, our need, our inadequacy, our defeat met by the life-giving mercies of God.”

Ortlund told the students in the audience that revival is for them.

“You have no right to settle for a vision of your life that is inconsequential. Jesus did not die and rise again for you not to matter,” Ortlund said. “The risen Christ is upon you. All these promises are yours. Go get it.”

 

Lancer community glad to return to campus life

When classes at California Baptist University were being delivered mostly by remote instruction, Ellie Dickerson, a film senior, missed the community. Back on campus now, Dickerson said she appreciates participating in campus events and connecting with her professors and peers in a more personal way.

“Both these things are very relationally based, but that is truly what CBU is about. It’s not the campus or buildings that define a school. It is the people and the experiences that shape a university experience,” Dickerson said.

“I am most looking forward to attending the Christmas Tree Lighting and Yule. I’ve always loved the Christmas Tree Lighting and the joy it brings to the student body amidst the stress of finals,” she added. “I have yet to attend Yule during my time at CBU, so I am ecstatic to experience that for the first time.”

Staff members in student services offices are excited for students to be back on campus after being gone for almost 18 months due to the pandemic.

“They are the reason we love doing what we do and bring so much life to the campus,” said Kristin Holderman, director of Community Life. “I think that is true across campus, but especially in our area where we strive to enhance their experience through quality events and programs.”

Community Life is bringing back some favorite traditions such as TWIRP (The Woman Is Required to Pay), Merry & Bright, and Yule. It also plans to have the monthly Commuter Sidewalk Cafes, student clubs programming, and cultural celebrations.

“We hope to bring back programming that is familiar but as with everything during these times we will make any and all adjustments that are necessary to program excellently while abiding by university recommendations,” Holderman said.

Students also are busy playing intramurals. CBU Recreation is offering both esports and in-person sports, such as beach volleyball, flag football, and outdoor basketball this fall, said Tyler Cox, senior director of Campus Recreation.

“As much as the students missed participating in different recreation events, we missed putting them on,” Cox said. “We are looking forward to students being able to make connections on the intramural field, court, or through other recreational programming.”

Chapel started the semester online, with services produced as they were last year. But Spiritual Life is hopeful conditions will allow for in-person at some point, said Dr. John Montgomery, dean of Spiritual Life. Spiritual Life is holding other in-person events, such as SL Night, which offers a message on discipleship, and SL Groups, like a Bible study.

“We are looking forward to connecting with students in person. We spent a lot of time on Zoom last year, but as everyone has discovered, it is just not the same as face-to-face interactions,” Montgomery said.

Scott Rydelski, a theatre and comedic arts senior, said he appreciates that live events from theatre to sports are coming back to campus.

“Watching our volleyball and basketball teams play is one of my favorite activities to do on campus and it’s one of my favorite ways that our campus comes together,” Rydelski said.

While Christian Semon, a civil engineering senior, lived on campus last year and had in-person labs, he said it was not the same with few students on campus.

“I love that everyone is back, and it seems like everyone is more appreciative of being at a campus like CBU,” Semon said. “I am looking forward most to intramurals and sports with fans being back. Sports are not the same on TV. Being able to experience the Events Center or Van Dyne Gym with students cheering on basketball or volleyball is really special.”

Hannah Tudor, a public relations junior, said she is looking forward to events such as Midnight Madness and Festival of Colors.

“These events bring us together as a Lancer Nation,” Tudor said. “I really appreciate the CBU community. Waking up each day and getting to walk around a lively campus helps me be more productive.”

 

Family Updates

Dr. Joshua Rodriguez, assistant professor of music theory and composition, had a musical composition awarded Honorable Mention by The American Prize in the Composition Band/Wind Professional Division. His piece was called TIKAL.

 

 

 

 

Emily Anderson (’19) was featured in AdvisorSmith, an online resource for business insurance. Anderson, who graduated with a Bachelor of Science, talked about CBU and being in the actuarial science program.

 

 

 

 

Clayton Fowler (’21) is the first actuarial science major at CBU to pass two actuarial examinations by his graduation year. He passed the Financial Mathematics exam (Exam FM) in February and the Probability exam (Exam P) in July, both being administered by the Society of Actuaries. Students must pass seven exams to attain the first actuarial designation of Associate from either of the leading actuarial societies (Society of Actuaries and Casualty Actuarial Society).

 

Dr. S. Jeannette Guignard, associate professor of organizational leadership for Online and Professional Studies, spoke at the Mindfulness Expo in Anaheim on Sept. 25. She talked on Mindful Leadership: Mindfulness Principles to Navigate Workplace Challenges.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Dayna Herrera, professor of nursing, and Dr. Jolene Dickert, professor of athletic training, virtually presented research at the National Center for Interprofessional Practice and Education Summit 2021 on Sept. 27. It was titled Interprofessional Large Scale Disaster Response; A Virtual Learning Event.

 

 

 

Dr. Robert Pate, professor of psychology, presented at the American Association of Christian Counselors Global Conference in Orlando, Florida, on Sept. 16. It was titled Utilizing Digital Media and Clinical Skills to Ethically Market Your Practice.

 

 

 

Dr. Mark Kling, associate professor of criminal justice, and Dr. Linda-Marie Sundstrom, associate professor of public administration, both for Online and Professional Studies, had an article published in the PA Times on Sept. 15. It was titled Defunding School Police Officers: A Back-to-School Experiment.

 

 

 

Dr. Melissa Croteau, professor of film studies, published an essay in The Shakespeare Newsletter (vol. 69) titled Trespassing on Sacred Ground: The Politics of Religion in Vishal Bhardwaj’s Maqbool (2003). She also published a scholarly review of The Old Globe Theatre’s 2020 staging of Romeo and Juliet in the journal Shakespeare Bulletin (vol. 38). Additionally, she participated at the 2021 World Shakespeare Congress held virtually in July. She served as lead convenor of the seminar Women and the ‘Feminine’ in Shakespearean Screen and Visual Media.

 

 

 

Dr. Rick Ardito, associate professor of accounting for Online and Professional Studies, published a children’s book titled The Ten Dollar Tooth. It introduces children to the concept of supply and demand.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Erin Smith, associate professor of psychology, had a paper published in a special issue of the journal Scientia et Fides (Aug. 8, 2021). The paper is titled A tale of two perspectives: How psychology and neuroscience contribute to understanding personhood.

 

 

 

Dr. Sandra Romo, associate professor of communication, Dr. Thomas Schneider, associate professor of English, Dr. Joe Slunaker, assistant professor of Christian studies, and Dr. Effat Zeidan Hatoum, assistant professor of general education, all for Online and Professional Studies, presented at the National Social Science Association Conference in San Diego on Sept. 28. The presentation was titled Interdisciplinary, Collaborative, Required: It Takes a Pedagogical Village to Raise a Student.

 

 

 

Dr. Robert LaChausse, professor of public health sciences, is the producer and host of the Prevention Matters Podcast where he interviews the influential researchers, practitioners and federal policymakers working in the field of prevention science. The podcast is sponsored by the National Prevention Science Coalition, where LaChausse also serves on the board of directors.

 

 

Dr. Tim Gramling, dean of the Dr. Robert K. Jabs School of Business, has been selected for the 2022 class of the Corona Chamber of Commerce’s Executive Leadership Roundtable. The class of business and education leaders will participate in a nine-month program, learning about the opportunities and challenges that face the region.

 

 

 

Dr. Shawn Wilhite, assistant professor of Christian studies for Online and Professional Studies, was interviewed for a podcast on New Books Network for his book The Didache: A Commentary.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Joel Bigley, associate professor of business, had a book published. It is titled Leading at the Edge of Chaos (Scholars’ Press, August 2021).

 

 

 

 

Catherine Letherer, associate professor of physician assistant studies, co-wrote an article published in JAAPA, the national physician assistant journal. It is titled The Watchman device for preventing stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation (October 2021).

 

 

 

 

Gabriel Estrada, visiting professor of Old Testament, Marcia Gay, assistant professor of nursing, Benjamin Sanders, assistant professor of computer science, and Dr. Ted Murcray, associate professor of education, virtually presented research at the SoTL (Scholarship of Teaching and Learning) Summit Conference on Oct. 7. The presentation was titled Did They Learn It Here?: Using effect size to measure student learning.

 

Adrian Quezada, an aviation flight major, and Jay Villasenor, director of Veterans Resource Center, attended a townhall meeting with Secretary of Veteran Affairs Denis McDonough and Congressman Mark Takano in Riverside on Oct. 6. Quezada spoke with McDonough and Takano about his experiences in CBU’s Department of Aviation Science and the opportunity to obtain aviation ratings. Quezada, who was a member of the U.S. Air Force, has worked in CBU’s aviation maintenance shop and been hired as a pilot for Dynamic Aviation.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Pedro Caro, assistant professor of school counseling, presented a session at the virtual Riverside County School Counselor Leadership Network on Sept. 30. The session was titled The New CTC School Counseling Standards: A School District Approach to Implementation. Gurleen Kaur, Sevie Dhillon and Jennifer Gonzalez, school counseling graduate students, assisted with the presentation.

 

 

Personnel Updates

 

In this issue…

• Current News
• Family Updates
• Personnel Updates

Current News 

CBU Fall 2021 enrollment extends record-setting pattern

California Baptist University posted another record enrollment along with the return to in-person instruction this year, Dr. Ronald L. Ellis, CBU president, announced today.

At the regular fall meeting of the CBU Board of Trustees, Ellis announced that Fall 2021 enrollment totaled 11,491 students. That figure is 174 greater than the fall 2020 enrollment and a year-over-year increase of 1.5 percent.

“Fall 2021 is another record-breaking enrollment increase on top of a sustained twenty-seven years of significant increases and puts CBU ahead of schedule to attain the 12,000 by 2025 goal,” Ellis said.

This year’s triple-digit increase follows three years of 600-plus enrollment increases (610, 698, 618), one four-digit increase (1,113), six three-digit increases (813, 584, 616, 784, 545, 559), and the Fall 2020 increase of 272. Combined with the current year’s increase of 174 students, CBU enrollment has grown 7,386 on a base of 4,105 in Fall 2009 — an increase of 180 percent in 12 years.

During the 71-year history of the institution, there have been 20 triple-digit or greater year-over-year increases, all since Fall 1995.

Since Ellis arrived as president in November 1994, CBU enrollment has grown by 10,683 from 808 to 11,491, which is 14.22 times larger.

 

Counseling Center director discusses coping with a pandemic 

As students at California Baptist University settle into the new school year, life almost seems back to normal while dealing with a pandemic. Students are busy with classes, school activities and socializing.

Dr. Jeff Biddle, director of the Counseling Center, discusses what the Lancer community may still be coping with emotionally and mentally. 

A lot has happened in the past 18 months. What should students expect?
New students are experiencing a flood of emotions, but a predominant one is anxiety resulting from a loss of normalcy. Their entire senior year in high school during the pandemic was not normal, with canceled dances and football games, a confusing graduation experience and the online learning experience. The accumulation of losses has interfered with social interactions and their sense of belonging, as well as created loneliness and magnified anxiety, thus creating a vicious cycle.

Normalcy fosters equilibrium in our daily lives. It creates a sense of predictability, routine and rhythm, which can stabilize our emotions through knowing what to expect. Normalcy doesn’t mean we don’t experience the ups and downs of life, but the pandemic has additionally forced us to maintain an “expect the unexpected” state of mind.

Now, as new students step onto CBU’s campus, they are still holding the “expect the unexpected” mindset. Although college life can be an amazing and fulfilling experience, it is new and requires time for adjustment, even without taking into account all the changes from the pandemic.

Meanwhile, all students may experience a mixture of “I’m excited, and I’m apprehensive.” Then they ask, “Can I give myself permission to be excited because I can’t trust what’s going to happen?”

With that much loss, there is a corresponding need to grieve. I see many students trying to navigate how to put words to their feelings and thoughts and maybe not even understanding that they need to process and grieve.

Why is it important to grieve?
A good definition for grieving is acknowledging the loss of precious things of significant meaning, such as people, environments, relationships and, yes, even normalcy. Grieving well is identifying and sharing these losses with another person, whether it’s a therapist, friend, professor, Bible study leader or anyone you respect who is safe and listens well. Barriers to grieving can be our belief systems that say, “You’re too sensitive,” or “Just get over it,” or “Other people have it worse than me,” or “You don’t have time for this.”

But if we don’t grieve, our emotions will begin to manifest physically, such as through headaches, body aches, migraines, gastrointestinal issues and sleep issues. The body keeps score. Physical symptoms may be signaling emotional pain going on underneath the hood of our hearts. In a sense, students might be duct taping over that blinking red check engine light while the body begins to malfunction.

What emotions or thoughts would be considered normal, and when should students seek help?
It’s normal to feel abnormal. We do not live in a world with just healthy people and unhealthy people. We live in a world where at some level we’re all broken. We’re all entering a crisis, in a crisis, or recovering from a crisis. The sooner we admit that the better chance we have of healing.

I love to look college students in the eye and say, “You’re not crazy. In light of what you’ve been going through, it’s normal to feel this level of pain.” Normalizing for a person in distress and offering them hope is often the beginning of recovery. I also communicate that it is not normal to try to heal in isolation: God always intended and designed us to heal in community.

On a practical note, if a student is experiencing emotional pain for two weeks or more, with no relief in sight, it’s time to seek help.

Why is it important to reach out?
Studies show 80% of people who suffer through a mental health issue will heal if they seek help. It doesn’t have to be counseling; it could be just reaching out to a safe person who deeply cares for you.

There’s something transformative and healing in simply communicating our pain to another person.

If you are a friend of someone in crisis, congratulations, you have now become a first responder! It is your privilege to listen, encourage and assist them in finding help.

Another statistic is that 40% of university students who are struggling with mental health issues do not reach out. They are the ones that have isolated themselves and that’s the 40% that worries me most. 

What services are available for students at the Counseling Center?
In addition to in-person or telehealth counseling sessions, the Counseling Center provides anonymous online assessments that can help students determine their emotional state. The WellTrack app (free to CBU students) is a self-help online therapy option that allows students to track their mental health. The Center, which has 26 counselors, also offers support groups focusing on processing loss and dealing with anxiety due to the pandemic.

Anything you would like to add?
I encourage students to be courageous enough to reach out. Realize that it is normal to struggle with emotions, and it’s essential to be in a supportive community.

 

Faculty look at community and rights for Constitution Day 

A panel of faculty members at California Baptist University discussed the Constitution and how it addresses the common good and individual rights.

Dr. Kenya Davis-Hayes, professor of history; Dr. Troy Hinrichs, professor of criminal justice; Dr. Chase Porter, assistant professor of political science; and Dr. Amy Stumpf, professor of society and religion, spoke at a Constitution Day event on Sept. 17. The annual observance marks the signing of the U.S. Constitution on Sept. 17, 1787.

Dr. Chris McHorney, chair of the Department of History and Government, moderated the discussion titled “Who Are We the People? Communitarianism, Individualism and the Constitution.” Porter said the goals of general welfare and of individual rights are “inevitably” in conflict.

“To secure the welfare of all of the nation is going to require limitations on individual liberty within the nation,” Porter said. “Where I think we politically divide in America is, how expansive do we want the promotion of general welfare to be? The more expansive we want general welfare to be, to some extent, the more constraining we’re going to have to be on individual liberty. I don’t think you can have those two concepts without some sort of conflict. You just have to decide how much of a conflict you’re comfortable with.”

Stumpf said she saw these goals—general welfare and individual rights—more as cooperating.

“They’re working together. Liberty is just a part of the common good or the common welfare and we would want liberty for other people as well as ourselves,” Stumpf said. “And it has to come at a price. The common good is not free. Whether it’s through political means or economic and taxation, it comes at a price.”

Davis-Hayes said as Americans, people often don’t think about the tension between general welfare and liberty until extreme situations occur. The pandemic has brought the tension, but so did rationing during World War II.

“In modern America … we forget overall that that we already have a society that’s working towards a general welfare,” Davis-Hayes said. “But then when something happens and you’re required to overtly work towards the general welfare, we have these very amazing and high stress conversations about the tension between the two.”

The panel also discussed how the perspective of Christianity should affect how to interpret rights and the common good.

“When I look at what the Scriptures say about loving my neighbor, honoring them, helping them stay healthy, respecting their needs, it trumps what [the Constitution] about my rights,” Stumpf said. “Jesus said it’s good for my neighbor, so do it.”

Hinrichs said that while people need to care for others, he was concerned about having the government make people do certain things.

“When you give the government that much power, where does it stop?” Hinrichs asked. “Just look at the growth of the government since the American Civil War. It brings a lot of weight, and it never goes back to what it was before.”

Porter agreed he did not want the government enforcing morality in some issues, but he also felt that Christians need to do their part.

“My concern as a Christian is not how the government is handling the response to COVID. … [My concern is] how I, as an individual Christian, am responding to COVID. I can certainly go above and beyond what the government calls for me morally,” Porter said.

Davis-Hayes said Christians are called to always be salt and light. Members of the Department of History and Government encourage students to go into government and to bring in a Christ-centered worldview, “to kind of nudge our society in ways that are both legal and moral,” she said.

“I think that’s the best that we can do, hopefully without overreach … to legislate in a way that balances the general welfare and individual liberty, as difficult as that is. That’s the tension,” Davis-Hayes said. 

 

CBU remembers 20th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks

Students, faculty and staff at California Baptist University took time to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

The Associated Students of CBU offered an opportunity to remember and honor the 2,977 people who lost their lives. At the Stamps Courtyard, students, faculty and staff could take one of 2,977 flags, one for each victim, and place the flag in the lawn, which was outlined as a cross.

“ASCBU and fellow Lancers are paying tribute to those who lost their lives in the events that took place 20 years ago at the World Trade Center [and the Pentagon], as well as honoring those who survived,” said Justice Avendano, a graphic design senior and ASCBU vice president. “Our generation barely recalls the events that took place on that tragic day. Remembering those affected connects us with our nation and promotes unity on our campus.”

Jenna Dickstein, a liberal studies sophomore, took time to plant a flag. She was born a month after 9/11, however, she has cousins who lived in New York and her dad was traveling that day and was stuck in North Carolina when flights shut down.

“Every 9/11 I really feel compelled to make sure everyone is aware of how tragic that day was and how many lives we really did lose,” Dickstein said.

She said she would encourage other students to watch documentaries if they need to inform themselves about the event.

“It is such a monumental date in our history, and I don’t want it to ever be forgotten,” Dickstein said.

Dr. Chris McHorney, chair of the department of history and government, said that even as years go by, it is important to remember the attacks because their effects are still being felt.

“Families and friends continue to mourn those senseless deaths,” McHorney said.

“In addition, our lives changed dramatically, with the consequences ranging from increased inconveniences when traveling, to the invasions of Afghanistan in 2001 and Iraq in 2003. The military has paid a heavy price in both wars, with thousands making the ultimate sacrifice and countless more returning home with significant visible and unseen injuries,” McHorney said.

Damian De Casas, a biology senior, remembers his elementary teacher turning on the TV and his parents trying to explain it when he got home from school. He stopped to plant a flag to remember 9/11 and the soldiers recently killed in Afghanistan.

“My hope and prayer for this country is that things can get better and God can provide,” De Casas said.

His faith helps him see how God can work through difficult times, he said.

“The amount of people who showed up in church after 9/11—people were seeking answers to questions about life, loss, everything. So, through faith, I think it’s important to remember that God is trying to bring people closer,” De Casas said.

 

CBU receives high rankings in 2022 “Best Colleges” lists

California Baptist University received multiple high rankings in the U.S. News & World Report (USN&WR) 2022 list of America’s “Best Colleges” announced Sept. 13.

CBU claimed the No. 34 spot for “Best Regional University” in the West, up from last year’s No. 40 position. The 2022 rankings mark the eighth consecutive year that CBU has received a top-50 ranking in the publication’s “Best Regional Universities” category for public and private colleges in the West.

The 2022 rankings mark the 16th year that CBU has appeared in the “Best Colleges” list.

CBU also earned significant placement in several other 2022 USN&WR rankings including: No. 3 for “Most Innovative Schools”; No. 6 for “Best Undergraduate Teaching”; No. 27 for “Best Colleges for Veterans”; No. 27 in the “Best Value Schools” category; and No. 29 for “Top Performers on Social Mobility” (based on enrolling and graduating students who received federal Pell Grants).

Dr. Ronald L. Ellis, president of CBU, said the third-party ranking is significant.

“These rankings validate the choices made by thousands of students pursuing their higher education goals at CBU,” Ellis said. “This year’s ranking in particular reflects the quality of education that California Baptist University strives to provide in order to enhance students’ overall experience, even while dealing with a global pandemic.”

The “Best Regional Universities” category compares nearly 600 institutions in four regions of the nation that offer a broad scope of undergraduate degrees and master’s degrees but few, if any, doctoral programs.

CBU offers seven doctoral programs, 40 graduate programs and more than 100 bachelor’s programs.

U.S. News & World Report publishes the “Best Colleges” rankings each year to aid prospective students and their parents looking for the best academic values for their money. Now in its 37th year, the annual comparative listing uses a system of weighted indicators of academic excellence to rank universities. Those indicators include student selectivity; retention and graduation rates; assessment by peer institutions; faculty resources; financial resources and alumni giving, according to the USN&WR website.

To view the 2022 rankings, click here.

 

Family Updates

Dr. Cammy Purper, professor of education, and Dr. Shari Farris, associate professor of education, both for Online and Professional Studies, co-authored an article published in Exchange magazine (September/October 2021). It was titled All I Really Needed to Know: Leadership Lessons from Teaching Young Children.

 

 

 

Ashley Sonke, nursing student services coordinator II, and Dr. Terri Thompson, associate professor of nursing, published an article in the Journal of Professional Nursing. It was titled Multiple Mini Interviews as Part of Holistic Admissions Review for Nursing Schools.

 

 

 

Dr. Gretchen Bartels-Ray, associate professor of English for Online and Professional Studies, had a poem published by Kairos Literary Magazine (April 2021). It was titled Apricot Rose.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Mark Kling, associate professor of criminal justice, and Dr. Linda-Marie Sundstrom, associate professor of public administration, both for Online and Professional Studies, virtually presented research at the International Public Administration Conference on Sept. 8. It was titled Defund the Police or Comprehensive Compassion: Place-Based Governance Trends to Create Safety in the Civic Square.

 

 

 

Dr. Daniel Prather, professor of aviation science, presented a webinar hosted by the Airport Cooperative Research Program of the Transportation Research Board on Sept. 13. It was titled Airport Operations Training at Small Airports.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Trevor Gillum, professor of kinesiology, was elected president of the Southwest chapter of the American College of Sports Medicine. He will serve a three-year term overseeing the board of directors. Additionally, Gillum was recognized as a Fellow of the American College of Sports Medicine. The honor recognizes distinguished professional achievement in research and service.

 

 

 

Dr. Jacqueline Gustafson, dean of the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences, co-authored a paper published in the Journal of Human Behavior in the Social Environment (August 2021). It was titled Participant reflections on short-term international volunteering: Benefits, concerns, and perspective change.

 

 

 

 

Dominick Dicus, adjunct professor of English, published a short story on Assisi: An Online Journal of Arts & Letters (June 28, 2021). It was titled Aya.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Liya Grace Ni, professor of electrical and computer engineering, presented a paper at the Intelligent Systems Conference (IntelliSys) held virtually on Sept. 2-3. The paper was titled Small Scale Mobile Robot Auto-Parking using Deep Learning, Image Processing, and Kinematics-based Target Prediction. It was co-authored by Ni and student Mingxin Li, who graduated from CBU in May 2021 with a Master of Science degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering. The conference proceedings were published as a book called Intelligent Systems and Applications, as part of the Lecture Notes in Networks and Systems book series.

 

 

Srisha Jhangiani, a graduate student in the physician assistant studies program, has been awarded a National Health Service full ride scholarship. The organization bases selection on honoring legal obligations, performing well academically and a commitment to providing primary care services in underserved communities.

 

Dr. Erin Smith, associate professor of psychology, had a book review published in Perspectives on Science and Christian Faith (September 2021). She reviewed the book Enhancing Christian Life: How Extended Cognition Augments Religious Community by Brad D. Strawn and Warren S. Brown.

 

 

 

Dr. Robert Shields, director of curriculum development, and Dr. Dirk Davis, associate vice president of academics, both for Online and Professional Studies, presented an ePoster at the 2021 Distance Teaching and Learning 37th Annual Conference on Aug. 2. The presentation was titled Back to Basics: Redefining the Role of Faculty in Online Course Development.

 

 

 

Dr. Esther Lee, associate professor of statistics, published a paper in the Journal of Management Policy and Practice (Volume 22, No. 2). The paper was titled Forecasting COVID-19 Cases With Government Intervention Comparisons: Lockdown, Trackdown, and Herd Immunity.

 

 

 

The College of Behavioral and Social Sciences held an Undergraduate Kickoff Rally on Sept. 9. The rally welcomed new and returning students to campus and connected them with faculty. Faculty also presented information about student opportunities with the CBSS including global engagement practicums, research opportunities, and the new Bachelor’s of Social Work program.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Joshua Knabb, professor of psychology, presented at the American Association of Christian Counselors World Conference in Orlando, Florida, on Sept. 15-18. The presentation was titled ACT for Christian Clients in Counseling and Psychotherapy: A Faith-Based Approach to Living a Life of Purpose in a Suffering World He also won the 2021 Caregiver Award for Excellence in Christian Caregiving. Additionally, he, Dr. Veola Vazquez, professor of psychology, and Dr. Robert Pate, associate professor of psychology, published an article in Spirituality in Clinical Practice (Sept. 13, 2021). It was titled The Christian Gratitude Scale: An Emic Approach to Measuring Thankfulness in Every Season of Life.

 

Dr. John Park, assistant professor of psychology, and his wife, Yeji Hwang, welcomed a son on Sept. 11. Roy Park weighed 8 pounds, 3 ounces.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Julie Goodman-Bowling, associate professor of anthropology, and her husband, David Bowling, welcomed a son on Sept. 6. Edwin Mitchell Bowling weighed 6 pounds, 11 ounces. He joins sisters, Elizabeth, 6, and Emma, 4.

 

 

 

 

 

Personnel Updates

In this issue…

• Current News
• Family Updates
• Personnel Updates

Current News

Fall 2021 semester begins in person at CBU 

After offering classes mostly through synchronous remote instruction the past 18 months due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the California Baptist University campus was buzzing with energy and enthusiasm as in-person classes for the fall 2021 semester began Sept. 7.

“We are thrilled to welcome the Lancer Nation back on campus! The perseverance of our students, faculty and staff has been so evident over the last 18 months and we are excited to begin the fall 2021 term,” said Dr. Charles Sands, provost and vice president for Academic Affairs. “We want everyone to connect to the CBU community as we all celebrate the return to campus.”

New CBU students moved into their living areas and began getting acquainted with life on campus during Welcome Weekend Sept. 3-5. On Sept. 5, Community Life hosted a movie night on the Front Lawn for all CBU students. The event featured food trucks, Disney costume contests and the showing of “Cruella.”

CBU launched several new undergraduate majors and master’s degree programs this fall semester. In the traditional setting, CBU now offers a Bachelor of Arts in Art Education, a Bachelor of Science in Sport Management, a Bachelor of Social Work and a Master of Science in Engineering. The Division of Online and Professional Studies offers two new graduate programs: a Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies and a Master of Healthcare Administration.

Additionally, CBU has entered the final year of its four-year transition from NCAA Division II to NCAA Division I.

 

Welcome Weekend hosts the newest Lancers 

It was more than just the heat that gave the newest Lancers a warm welcome as they arrived at California Baptist University for Welcome Weekend, Sept. 3-5. CBU faculty, staff and student leaders received about 2,000 freshmen and transfer students arriving for the start of the fall semester at CBU.

CBU hosted international students on Sept. 1-2 and students who commute on Sept. 3. Residential freshmen and transfer students moved in on Sept. 3. The weekend is a CBU tradition that helps new students get connected to campus resources and each other.

“Welcome Weekend is designed to connect new students to each other, to our beautiful campus and ultimately to Christ,” said Emily Culmer, program coordinator for new student programs in Community Life. “By the first day of class, we want our new students to feel like they belong to our campus community as a member of the Lancer family.”

Move-in kicked off the weekend. As students arrived with vehicles full of luggage, student volunteers lined up beside the living areas to help with move in. They unloaded vehicles, filled rolling bins with bedding, clothes and other items and pushed them to the rooms.

Other events on Friday included an Academic Open House & Involvement Fair, where the newcomers connected with deans, faculty members and Student Services offices. That was followed by the Kick-Off that provided more information about the campus and highlighted Athletics.

Ethan Britton, from Grand Rapids, Michigan, said he chose CBU because he wanted to branch out. He looked forward to meeting other students and the nicer weather in Southern California.

“I really like the kinesiology program. I’m really excited to start in my field,” Britton said. “And I’m excited about meeting new people and being surrounded by a bunch of Christ followers like myself.”

Amanda Barrier, a photography freshman, said she chose CBU after doing research and walking down Palm Drive on campus.

“I found that nowhere else really like felt as much as home like CBU does,” Barrier said. “I’m excited mostly about becoming more independent, but also about joining a community and being able to hang out with a bunch of believers my age.”

Additional weekend activities included students meeting their First-Year Experience groups, which help acclimate students to campus life. SL Welcome Night provided worship, the gospel message, and a student-led panel on how Spiritual Life helped them grow spiritually. Sunday night featured a movie, “Cruella,” on the Front Lawn along with food trucks.

 

CBU campus alive again with the sound of music 

The singing from Worship Collective at California Baptist University drifted out of the large tent behind Wallace Theatre on Sept. 2. “Oh Praise (The Only One)” was one of many songs the students would practice that day.

A week before the fall 2021 semester begins at CBU, about 400 students are already on campus for Rehearsal Camp, hosted by the Shelby and Ferne Collinsworth School of Music on Aug. 31-Sept. 3 and Sept. 6.

Dr. Joseph Bolin, dean of the School of Music said Rehearsal Camp welcomes new students, casts vision for the future and gets a head start of the process of music making for the academic year.

“We come together this week to connect to each other, connect with our collective mission and objectives, and connect with the profoundly fulfilling process of creating music in the context of a vibrant community,” Bolin said.

During camp, some of the choirs rehearsed in the tent or at Magnolia Church near the CBU campus. The other vocal and instrument ensembles practiced in the JoAnn Hawkins Music Building. Students wore masks when singing indoors.

For the past 18 months, students have experienced virtual rehearsals and performances due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Being away from making music and worshipping as a community has been one of the most difficult things I have experienced,” said Dr. Gene Peterson, director of choral and vocal studies. “The joy of being community and singing harmony with many voices is an unspeakable blessing and well worth the precautions we are taking to do so safely.”

Dr. Guy Holliday, associate dean of undergraduate studies, conducts the Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band and the Lancer Pep Band.

During camp “the students experience clinics and workshops from our directors to set the stage for growth in their musical craft, personal character, and their connections to God and each other,” Holliday said. “We are so excited to be making music together in the same space again!”

Melody Vazquez, a music education sophomore, spent her freshman year submitting videos of herself singing. Practicing with others this week reminded her of her high school experience of singing in person.

“Now that I’m in here, it’s a whole different level of learning and it’s really good to be on campus,” Vazquez said. “Today was kind of really difficult in a sense of blending with other people and unifying with others, but it was also a great experience to come back to.”

Joseph Greene, a music composition freshman, sings bass with Lancer Chorus and Worship Collective. He said he already learned about technique and form.

“It was amazing. I’ve learned so much and it’s so wonderful being able to actually collaborate with other singers again and other musicians,” Greene said.

 

Facilities services aims to ‘enhance the learning environment’ 

California Baptist University is busy preparing for the return of students this fall semester. For many campus offices, work slows down during the summer, even without a pandemic. But not for all departments.

“Summer is essentially a summer sprint. We try to get as much done as we possibly can so not to interfere with the students when they’re living on campus,” said Brenda Flores, associate director of business administration for Facilities and Planning Services.

The office oversees the maintenance and operations of all campus structures, from the buildings themselves to the internal systems, such as ventilation, plumbing, lights, etc. It also is involved with construction and remodeling on campus. Projects this summer included turning a classroom into faculty offices, upgrading the fire alarm system at Tower Hall student housing and building a new soccer field.

Have a leaking faucet or a light that needs to be replaced? Facilities and Planning Services gets the call.

“My preference is that we are behind the scenes,” Flores said. “If you have to get in contact with us, we hope that we’re very customer-service oriented, that we take care of it in a timely manner and clean up after ourselves. We want to be the facilitator for the educational environment.”

Robert Gurrola, associate director of maintenance and operations, is all about preventative maintenance. Just as a car needs an oil change every 5,000 miles, buildings and systems need maintenance as well, he said.

“My philosophy is whatever asset we have on campus, we try to get as much longevity from it as we can. We’re oiling, checking, fixing or repairing,” Gurrola said.

For him, problems arise when someone brings an unauthorized appliance or uses several extension cords. He wants people to ask first and encourages them to refer to the Facilities page on InsideCBU for more information.

Jonathan Rogers, general maintenance technician, worked on preparing living areas during the summer housing turnover.

“Summer is our busiest season as we try our best to get everything looking as new and clean as possible,” Rogers said. “Turnover time is absolute madness. But through teamwork, dedication and a lot of prayer we somehow manage to make it happen.”

His favorite part of the job is that it is never the same.

“The mystery of the new day is a double-edged sword, but I love it,” Rogers said. “It gives us a chance to constantly try and learn a new skill or the ability to work with other skilled technicians that can pour into you and teach you. I have been blessed to have a truly amazing manager and co-workers.”

Carlos “Buddy” Perryman, fire and safety specialist, has worked at CBU nearly 19 years. His recent tasks included regular testing of fire alarm and fire sprinkler systems and coordinating the new fire alarm in Tower Hall.

With so many cyclic inspections and tests to do along with other duties, time management is critical, Perryman said. His favorite part of the job is looking at the inspection log at the end of the month and seeing all the boxes filled with completion dates and initials.

“There is so much to do that I don’t get to see that every month, but even so, it makes me feel proud to be part of the team that provides so many different layers of protection for our students and staff,” Perryman said.

Part of the department’s mission statement says it strives “to provide an environment conducive to the intellectual and spiritual growth of the students of California Baptist University.”

“We’re not to be a hindrance but enhance the learning environment. The staff and faculty can do their jobs, and the students are able to learn because they’re comfortable and they feel safe,” Flores said. “That’s what we’re really about, making sure that we’re taking care of those things so that people can learn, because that’s our business, right?”

 

CBU scores high in national, state 2022 Niche college rankings 

California Baptist University has once again received high marks for campus life in national rankings, coming in at No. 5 for “Best College Campus,” No. 5 for “Best College Food” and No. 23 for “Best College Dorms,” according to a 2022 Niche Best Colleges list.

The 2022 Niche Best College rankings are based on statistical analyses of dozens of data sources, according to the site. The “Best College Campus” category, for instance, uses key statistics and student reviews in addition to data from the U.S. Department of Education. The “Best College Campus” standings also take into account the quality of housing and food services of the campus.

“I am amazed by how much love is spread around campus from professors to students, it is such a welcoming school. I love being able to integrate my faith into assignments and conversations that I have with professors. … I am very grateful to be completing my degree here and I would not have wanted to go to any other school,” wrote a student reviewer on Niche.com’s profile page for CBU.

CBU placed No. 10 as “Best Online Colleges” and No. 20 for “Best Hispanic-Serving Institutions” in the national rankings. CBU also placed high among the Niche rankings for California colleges, including No. 1 for “Best Online Colleges” and No. 2 for “Best College Campus,” “Best College Food” and “Best College Dorms.” CBU also placed No. 8 for “Best Christian Colleges” and No. 11 for “Best College Athletics” in California.

 

Life of Dr. Bonnie G. Metcalf remembered at memorial service 

Dr. Bonnie G. Metcalf was remembered for her love of travel, jewelry and California Baptist University at a memorial service on campus on Aug. 30.

Metcalf, a former longtime CBU employee, passed away Aug. 4. She graduated from then California Baptist College in 1969 and worked in several positions at the university over the years (1971-2000), including secretary to the vice president for Academic Affairs, professor of education and vice president for Academic Affairs. Dr. Bonnie G. Metcalf School of Education was named in her honor in 2003.

Metcalf was acting vice president for Academic Affairs when Dr. Ronald L. Ellis became president in 1994. Having worked with her in the weeks before his official first day on the job, Ellis said his first recommendation to the Board of Trustees was to name Metcalf as vice president for Academic Affairs.

“There are people you meet in life that, upon the first impression, you know are going to be special, and you just feel like you’ve known them for a long, long period of time,” Ellis said. “Bonnie Metcalf had that type of relationship with me.”

Dr. H. Bruce Stokes, professor of anthropology and behavioral sciences, said Metcalf impacted his life as a colleague.

“I found Bonnie to be one of the classiest ladies I ever knew. … She didn’t perform or put on airs,” Stokes said. “Her presence was always a comfort to me because she was committed during those difficult times as was I to CBC and its mission.”

Dr. Amy Stumpf, professor of society and religion, said Metcalf changed her life. Metcalf hired Stumpf as her secretary and later encouraged Stumpf to pursue her doctorate and provided her with her first teaching opportunity.

“She knew the power of beauty to refresh her spirit, to help her face the day and bring a little delight.

I knew a woman who made life joyful and loved to laugh,” Stumpf said. “I knew a woman who was very smart. She could take in a lot of information, distill it, apply it and then get people to buy in.”

Granddaughter Brandie Metcalf (’97, ’13) remembered walking across the stage for graduation and her grandmother handing her the diploma.

“She always loved graduation time. She loved seeing her students and everybody succeed and that was always her mission,” Brandie Metcalf said. “I know that she will inspire the next generations to find and live their purpose as well as she did while she was here with us.”

Metcalf retired as vice president for Academic Affairs in 2000.

“I am an educator and this is my mission in life,” Metcalf told The Banner in 2000. “Some people are doctors; some are lawyers and missionaries. I am an educator.”

 

Speech-language pathology graduate program is accredited

The speech-language pathology graduate program at California Baptist University has received full accreditation for five years.

The accreditation comes from the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (CAA), which is within the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). The Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program received candidacy status in 2016 when the first students enrolled.

“Full accreditation status is evidence our program meets the rigorous standards established by ASHA and has consistently done so for many years,” said Dr. Bryan Ness, chair of the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders. “It is evidence of our active participation in ASHA and the quality of our program.”

During the candidacy period, CBU submitted yearly reports on course curricula, clinical practicum experience and student assessment. The program applied for full accreditation in fall 2020. The program completed a self study and underwent a virtual site visit this spring.

“For CBU, this means we continue to do what we have been doing—providing personalized, relevant and evidence-based academic and practicum experiences for students and demonstrating to our professional organization our commitment to uphold the highest standards of quality education,” Ness said. “CBU now transitions from being a ‘new’ speech-language pathology program to an established one, and we will be active members in our professional community.”

Dr. Candace Vickers, professor of communication sciences and disorders, founded the program and guided the department through the accreditation process.

“Receiving our full accreditation this year means the world to our faculty, staff and students,” Vickers said. “This is very important to students as they consider various graduate programs. It is the culmination of many years of work by a very dedicated team to create major infrastructure in both academic and clinical education.”

 

Family Updates

Orlando Martinez, director of aircraft maintenance, was named employee of the month for September. His nomination included the following statements: “Orlando secured a device to decrease inspection time tremendously due to a service bulletin by Piper. His team brought the C-150 up to full condition and updated simulators, supporting [the] NIFA team that went to national championships for the first time in CBU history and winning 14th place in the nation.”

 

 

 

Ruth Noemy Wheeler, lecturer of music, won first prize at the Los Angeles Conducting Workshop and Competition 2021 held in Los Angeles from Aug. 9-14. Competitors were selected nationwide and internationally.

 

 

 

 

Andrew Cress, director of special projects in Academic Affairs, was asked to serve as an accreditation peer evaluator for the WASC Senior College and University Commission. He will participate in his first accreditation site visit in November.

 

 

 

 

Frank Mihelich, associate professor of theatre, participated as a panel speaker at the Association of Theatre in Higher Education national conference on Aug. 6. The title of his presentation was Toward a Complicated Theatre: How Christian in Theatre Can Preserve the American Democracy. He also was a panelist in the Let’s Be Together Arts Festival on Aug. 21. He spoke on Post-Pandemic Era: The Survival War of Arts Industry. Both conferences were virtual.

 

 

 

Dr. Effat Zeidan Hatoum, assistant professor of general education for Online and Professional Studies, spoke during the American Chemical Society Fall 2021 conference on Aug. 23. The title of her talk was Why is emotional stability essential during the pandemic for the remote learner?

 

 

 

 

Dr. Dennis K. Bideshi, professor of biology, co-authored a paper published in Scientific Reports (August 2021). It was titled Extended in vivo transcriptomes of two ascoviruses with different tissue tropisms reveal alternative mechanisms for enhancing virus reproduction in hemolymph.

 

 

 

 

Dawn Carter, industry liaison for the Dr. Robert K. Jabs School of Business, has been nominated to Riverside’s International Relations Council, an organization that helps facilitate global ties with Riverside’s sister cities. She will serve for two years.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dr. Mark Kling, associate professor of criminal justice, and Dr. Linda-Marie Sundstrom, associate professor of public administration, both for Online and Professional Studies, had an article published in the PA Times on Aug. 18. It was titled Police Response to Rising Crime:  Are We Becoming Ungovernable?

 

 

 

Mary Ann Stahovich, assistant professor of physician assistant studies, and Catherine Letherer, associate professor of physician assistant studies, facilitated an ultrasound workshop at the University of California, Riverside School of Medicine on Aug. 11. The CBU students in the Master of Science Physician Assistant Studies learned hands-on ultrasound techniques.

 

 

Dr. Veola Vazquez, professor of psychology, participated in a virtual poster presentation at the American Psychological Association Annual Convention on Aug. 12-14. She presented a poster with Doctor of Psychology students Jessica MacCallum, Marena Matta, Sara Chamberlin and Summer Newman. The poster was titled Deliberate Rumination, Trauma Symptoms, and Posttraumatic Growth: The Mediating Role of Christian Gratitude.

 

 

 

Dr. Virgo Handojo, professor of psychology, co-authored a paper that was published in the Journal for Prevention and Intervention in the Community (May 31, 2021). The paper was titled Attachment style, religiosity, and well-being among Indonesian Christians. Dr. Krystal Hays, assistant professor of psychology, was the issue’s guest editor.

 

 

 

Dr. Shari Farris, associate professor of education, and Dr. Cammy Purper, professor of education, both for Online and Professional Studies, had an article published in Dimensions of Early Childhood on Aug. 2. It was titled STEM in Early Childhood Education: Establishing a Culture of Inquiry with Young Children.

 

 

 

Dr. Mary Ann Pearson, professor of communication, presented at a workshop sponsored by the Public Relations Society of America, Inland Empire chapter in San Bernardino on Aug. 25. Her topic was planning and writing a public relations plan.

 

 

 

The Doctor of Social Work program held its second residency from July 28-31. More than 30 students attended guest lectures and workshops. Additionally, the students presented and defended their research dissertations in front of faculty, administrators and peers.

 

 

The Master of Social Work Program welcomed more than 150 new students for the fall 2021 school year on Aug. 21. Program details were reviewed and students chose faculty mentors for the upcoming academic year.

 

 

Dr. Daniel Prather, professor of aviation science, just released a fourth edition of his general aviation marketing and management textbook, which has been re-titled FBO Management.

 

 

 

 

The Veterans Resource Center set a table in the Alumni Dining Commons to honor the 13 servicemen and women who were killed in Afghanistan on Aug. 26. The table was set up through Sept. 6.

 

 

Jennifer Lee, special projects coordinator in the Office of Educational Effectiveness, earned her Master of Science in Higher Education Leadership and Student Development from CBU on Aug. 19.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Nathanael Heyman, professor of biology, completed the Kodiak 100 mile trail running ultramarathon on Aug. 20-21. He finished in 27 hours 55 minutes for 12^th overall out of 76 runners, shaving nearly 2 hours off his 25^th place finish in 2019. The race circumnavigates Big Bear Lake on mountain trails for 100 miles while ascending and descending 16,000 feet of elevation.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Vanessa Bowley, adjunct professor of English for Online and Professional Studies, and her husband, Alan, welcomed their third daughter on Aug. 17. Olivia Ruth weighed 7 pounds, 15 ounces and measured 21.5 inches. She joins sisters Abigail, 5, and Jessica, 3.

 

 

 

 

Personnel Updates

 

In this issue…

• Current News
• Family Updates
• Personnel Updates

Current News

CBU concludes 2021 summer commencement ceremonies

California Baptist University wrapped up two days of celebration this week for the summer 2021 commencement ceremonies. Students received praise and encouragement in front of friends and family members during three ceremonies in the Events Center on Aug. 18-19.

Combined applications for graduation for summer 2021 commencement ceremonies included 17 candidates for doctoral degrees, 608 for master’s degrees and 376 for bachelor’s degrees for a total of 1,001 applicants.

In the commencement address, Dr. Ronald L. Ellis, president of California Baptist University, congratulated the graduates on their academic achievements.

“Each of these graduating students has arrived at this point because of a shared commitment to the challenging yet rewarding endeavor of higher education,” Ellis said. “The Board of Trustees, administrators, faculty and staff members join to celebrate and honor the exceptional efforts each of you has made to earn your degree.”

Ellis acknowledged the challenges the students faced during the pandemic.

“It would be difficult to argue the fact that we are celebrating an exceptional group of graduates –– not only for California Baptist University, but for all time. For more than a year, the very definition of normal repeatedly has been reshaped and redefined as you adapted in real time,” Ellis said. “Through the sacrifices you made, your true character was exemplified, and the relentless pursuit of your educational goals was steadfast. You manifested what it means to Live Your Purpose.®”

Jelaiya Jacob, who earned a Bachelor of Computer Science, wants to go into the video game industry. She said she struggled through many classes, but the engineering faculty believed in her.

“I found myself growing curious about their belief in me, so I was determined to find the person that they saw in me,” Jacob said. “I was afraid of more failure, but I had a new mindset that wanted me to at least try. I’m sure that God knew I had the strength to persevere through college all along, but I guess it took some failure for me to realize that.”

Victoria Lenahan earned a Master of Business Administration through the Division of Online and Professional Studies. She currently works for a school district but wants to work for a nonprofit in the future.

“I think CBU gave me a direction on how I can use my talents to help other people,” Lenahan said. “My faith has always been strong, but CBU gave me more of an insight to knowing there is a plan.”

Joshua Maddox earned a Bachelor in in Music for Worship Arts and Ministry and will be going on to The Los Angeles Recording School. He said CBU provided the opportunity to network professionally, build his confidence as a musician and deepen his faith.

“CBU definitely has prepared me for the music industry by creating an environment that allows its students to work with each other cohesively, tackling new problems and creating solutions for a better tomorrow,” Maddox said.

 

Master’s hooding ceremonies celebrate students’ achievements

Hundreds of master’s degree candidates at California Baptist University celebrated their academic achievements at hooding ceremonies, leading up to commencement ceremonies Aug. 18-19.

More than 600 master’s degree candidates and 17 doctoral candidates were eligible to participate in the summer commencements. At CBU, colleges and schools hold individual hooding ceremonies to recognize their candidates and also give students their distinctive colored hoods to wear at their commencement ceremony.

The College of Behavioral and Social Sciences had the largest group of master’s candidates with 93. The Bonnie G. Metcalf School of Education had the second largest group with 84 candidates. Additionally, the Online and Professional Studies division had more than 200 candidates throughout its various programs.

At the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences hooding ceremony, held Aug. 17 at Harvest Christian Fellowship in Riverside, Dr. Jacqueline Gustafson, dean of the college, told the graduates they were crossing from students to professionals.

“Over these last years as a student, you have worked very hard. You’ve studied, completed field assignments and grown in knowledge and skill. And if we have done our job well, you have also developed in professionalism and personal character,” Gustafson said. “The world needs your competence, your passion, your grit and your faith in believing what cannot yet be seen. Go and be great.”

Dr. Kristin Mauldin, director of the sport and performance psychology program, reminded the graduates that the Lord would be with them.

“Go forward with courage. Courage to face your fears, to feel the feelings that arise, to take risks and to step boldly. Keep your eyes on the Lord knowing He will guide your steps and correct your path. He will give you the resources that you need to do His will and will be there to hold you and your loved ones in His loving embrace,” Mauldin said.

Hailey Dirksen, who earned a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology, wants to be a marriage and family therapist. She said CBU’s Christian environment and professors helped shaped her worldview and her role as a counselor.

“I do have a purpose here on earth and that God will use me no matter what gives me peace and confidence in who I am and who I was created to be,” Dirksen said.

Eric Gonzalez, who earned a Master of Science in Sport and Performance Psychology, will be a soccer coach at University of California, Riverside. He said he was soul searching during the pandemic and wanted to come out of it with something useful when he found the program at CBU.

“It definitely helped me, helped shape me. With everything going on, it helped provide some positives in my life,” Gonzalez said. “With all the courses and all the internship hours it gave me that experience to be ready to make that next jump forward.”

 

Distinguished students ring in commencement ceremonies

Approximately 1,000 students at California Baptist University were eligible to participate in three summer commencement ceremonies on Aug. 18-19. In keeping with a CBU tradition, each ceremony began with the ringing of a bell.

Each toll of the bell represents one decade of the university’s existence. The bell rang seven times at each of the ceremonies to commemorate more than seven decades of academic excellence. CBU was established in 1950.

In keeping with another aspect of the tradition, graduates from among the highest-ranking students were chosen to ring the bell.

Areli Medina, who received a Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design and Digital Media, rang the bell for the 2 p.m. ceremony on Aug. 18. Alyssa Harman, a Master of Business Administration candidate, rang the bell at the 9:30 a.m. ceremony on Aug. 19. Areli Rodriguez, a Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences candidate, did so at the 2 p.m. Aug. 19 ceremony.

Medina said she was surprised when she first learned she had been chosen as a bell ringer.

“There are so many great students at CBU, and I’m sure there are others who are just as eligible to do this; so I am humbled and grateful for this opportunity,” Medina said.

Balancing school, work and personal responsibilities was not an easy task, Medina said, but she had already pushed off getting her degree many times in the past.

“By the grace of God, I was able to persevere and get to where I am now. My biggest success is that I am now accomplishing something I had prayed for so long about,” Medina said.

She is grateful for how CBU integrates faith into the courses and challenges students to build their lives and careers on the word of God, she said.

“My faith grew in an unexplainable way and, overall, CBU helped me put the puzzle pieces together of understanding where God wants to take me with this accomplishment,” Medina said.

Rodriguez said her goal was to finish her degree with a 4.0 GPA, which she did.

“There were times I would be stressed, tired and didn’t have the motivation to keep on going but I remembered my goal and most importantly that I had the Lord guiding me along the way,” Rodriguez said.

She plans to attend medical school and then return to Riverside County to work.

“Being taught by outstanding professors and faculty challenged me to grow academically and spiritually,” Rodriguez said. “As I continue on my academic journey, I will be faced with many challenges but despite all the hurdles and bumps I may endure, I will continue to follow what God’s purpose is for me.”

Harman said doing remote instruction was more challenging than she expected because there are more distractions at home than in a classroom. However, she accomplished it.

“My biggest success is simply graduating with my MBA,” Harman said. “After my BA, I told myself that I was done with school. However, I decided that grad school was the right choice for me, and I jumped right into the program.”

Harman earned an MBA with a concentration in healthcare administration. She wants to use her degree to help grow the small psychology practice where she works in Fullerton, California.

“CBU has shaped me by providing excellent role models for me and my future career. Professors were amazing at providing advice from their experiences in their respective fields,” Harman said. “For me, this meant that I received invaluable advice and connections in business and healthcare administration.”

 

Master of Architecture program receives 8-year accreditation

The architecture program at California Baptist University has received continuing accreditation for eight years from the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB).

The Master of Architecture program received its initial three-year accreditation in 2018.

The NAAB accreditation provides a foundation for a consistently growing program, said Keelan Kaiser, program director of architecture in the College of Architecture, Visual Arts and Design (CAVAD).

“The eight-year term gives us an opportunity to do another round of long-range planning and introspection as to who we are and where we think we can go,” Kaiser said. “We have new faculty who have helped round out the department and will lead the program forward.”

For the accreditation, the program had to complete a self study and undergo a site visit, which was virtual this spring, to ensure it met the 26 student-learning criteria, Kaiser said. The criteria include having the right number of faculty, providing facilities conducive to architecture studio education and culture, and demonstrating continuous improvement of the program.

The CBU program is different from other architecture programs in a few ways. It is an accelerated five-year master’s program. There are only about a dozen of those programs available, Kaiser said. Plus, the CBU program will have approximately 200 students this fall.

“We have a smaller community, and people know each other and have better opportunities for fellowship,” Kaiser said.

CBU has the highest license exam pass rate of California schools, Kaiser said. Additionally, the program cares for the student and emphasizes the importance of spiritual development.

“We frequently have conversations with students about more than just architecture. We’re serving students coming with a lot of different backgrounds and aspirations,” Kaiser said. “Some conversations are spiritual conversations, some are almost parental, and others are almost on a peer level. It’s all very rewarding from my perspective. It’s great to be able to pour into the kids’ lives in that way.”

Mark Roberson, dean of CAVAD, started the program in fall 2012. He said he remembered thinking ahead to the day when the program would receive full accreditation.

“That day seemed like a long way away. But now we have arrived as a fully accredited program, having been awarded the maximum eight-year term at our first opportunity. It is a sign of the overall development and maturity of the program at this point,” Roberson said. “We have made so much progress. We have a rapidly growing student population, top-notch faculty, nationally award-winning students, and an awesome facility.”

 

Family Updates

Dr. John Park, assistant professor of psychology, and Kerri Anderson, a Doctor of Psychology student, presented a poster session at the American Psychological Association Convention on Aug. 12-14. The session was titled Motivational and psychological processes of sex workers.

 

 

 

Megan Sais, graduate admissions counselor/recruiter, served as a panelist at the GAP SNAC Training on July 29. The panel did a Q&A for new graduate and adult admissions counselors. GAP (Graduate, Adult, Professional Studies & Seminary) is part of North American Coalition for Christian Admissions Professionals (NACCAP).

 

 

 

Dr. Erin Smith, associate professor of psychology, presented at the ASA (American Scientific Affiliation) annual meeting on July 29-Aug. 1. Smith’s presentation was titled Leveraging Psychological Science to Improve Science-Faith Communication.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Thomas Jernejcic, associate professor of computer information technology for Online and Professional Studies, presented a paper at the 2021 Americas Conference on Information Systems (AMCIS) held virtually on Aug. 9. The paper was titled The Role of Privacy within the Realm of Healthcare Wearables’ Acceptance and Use.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Anthony Chute, professor of church history, contributed a chapter in Make Disciples of All Nations: A History of Southern Baptist International Missions, edited by John Massey, Mike Morris and Madison Grace (July 2021). The chapter is titled Growth and Controversy: The Administration of Henry Allen Tupper, 1872-1893.

 

 

 

Dr. Mark Kling, associate professor of criminal justice, and Dr. Linda-Marie Sundstrom, associate professor of public administration, both for Online and Professional Studies, had an article published in the PA Times on July 16. It was titled Homicides, Assaults and Shoplifting: Can Police Departments Address the Rising Crime Alone?

 

 

 

Dr. Effat Zeidan Hatoum, assistant professor of general education for Online and Professional Studies, participated at the ASA (American Scientific Affiliation) annual meeting on July 29-Aug. 1. She moderated the Education and Science Literacy sessions and presented A Faith-Based Approach in Honoring Students in Distant Science and Math Classes. Additionally, she presented at the ISTE21 (International Society for Technology in Education) Conference on June 29. It was titled Let’s Explore Science and the Very Tiny Scale: The Nanoscale!

 

 

 

Dr. Adele Harrison, professor of finance, presented at the Wall Street Journal’s first virtual Instructor Conference on July 22. Her presentation was titled Incorporating The Wall Street Journal into Courses.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Mary Ann Pearson, professor of communication, Dr. Gaynell Vanderslice, assistant professor of business management, and Dr. Monica O’Rourke, professor of kinesiology, presented a national webinar with the Public Relations Society of America on Aug. 12. It was titled Strategies for Challenging Communication and Instructional Situations.

 

 

 

Dr. Ed Garrett, associate professor of kinesiology for Online and Professional Studies, was the invited guest speaker at the Cajon Joint Unified School District’s Coaches Clinic on Aug. 14. His topic was Coaching Mental Health.

 

 

 

 

 

Personnel Updates

 

In this issue…

• Current News
• Family Updates
• Personnel Updates

Current News

Summer camps help young musicians improve skills 

Middle school and high school students spent many hours practicing sight-reading and playing music as they prepared for a concert for family and friends during a Summer Music Camp held at California Baptist University.

CBU’s Young Musicians Program band camp in July was a collaboration with Inland Empire Musical Arts, a nonprofit that offers music classes to youth in the community. This summer, faculty led different weeklong camps for jazz, band, and strings.

Dr. Guy Holliday, associate dean of undergraduate studies and director of bands, led the band camp. He said the week provided students an occasion to grow their musical abilities.

“These camps give students the opportunity to play music together again, which is something many students have gone without since March of 2020,” Holliday said. “For middle and high school students, Summer Music Camp helps students to keep their musical chops up before their school band program starts in the fall.”

During this year’s band camp, the nearly 50 participants were put into one band. They played songs such as “An American Fanfare,” “Blessed Are They” and “The Imperial March.”

“Next year (post COVID), we anticipate having enough students to create two bands—one for middle schoolers and one for high schoolers,” Holliday said.

Steven Lees, an 11^th grader at Hillcrest High School in Riverside, asked his mom to sign him up for the opportunity to play music with other students.

“It’s been a great experience to play with other people instead of just yourself. I learned how to stay on tempo instead of going at my own pace,” Lees said.

Brody Elsey, a seventh grader at Christian Heritage School in Corona, said his favorite song to rehearse was “The Imperial March” from “Star Wars.” He also enjoyed meeting other students.

“I have really liked having the opportunity to make new friends and improve on my music,” Elsey said. “I’ve had so much fun here at CBU.”

Devon Lees, an eighth grader at Villegas Middle School in Riverside, said he was excited to be a part of the camp because he is interested in music.

“The best part has been learning all the notes and sounds and putting it all together to hear what it becomes,” Lees said.

 

MBA+ program offers new virtual synchronous-learning option 

This fall, the Dr. Robert K. Jabs School of Business will offer a new MBA program at California Baptist University.

The program, called MBA+, is a one-year, virtual synchronous-learning option for students who are looking for flexibility and accountability.

MBA+ is a result of the changes made and lessons learned in response to the pandemic, said Dr. Tad Hove, assistant dean for graduate programs in the School of Business.

“As we have now generated an abundance of knowledge and great outcomes in the area of virtual synchronous delivery methods, it seemed foolish to just abandon the assets we have,” Hove said. “In addition, students have inquired as to this modality over the past three semesters.”

The new program is different than typical online MBA programs, which provide asynchronous lectures. MBA+ offers a synchronous model. Students log in at a specified time for a live class session, allowing for group and faculty interaction. Networking with fellow students and faculty in real time is a critical part of the MBA+ experience, Hove said.

“MBA+ is aimed at graduate learners with the desire to have a synchronous delivery and a continued networking atmosphere,” Hove said.

Additionally, the MBA+ will host a five-day, on-campus intensive during both the fall and spring semesters.

“This brings the university, the classroom and the learning experience to the student without the time commitment of the traditional face-to-face programs,” Hove said.

The program curriculum will be current with domestic and global business trends, while instruction will simulate modern, real-world work environments of virtual conferences and meetings, Hove said. Courses for the 36-unit program run Tuesday and Thursday evenings.

For more information on MBA+, click here.

 

CAVAD Academies allow high schoolers to explore careers

High school students used the Business Building at California Baptist University as the backdrop to shoot a short film. In the process, they learned about acting and filming.

The College of Architecture, Visual Arts and Design (CAVAD) hosted high school students who received hands-on creative training at the CAVAD Summer Academies during July 12-16. The high schoolers had the opportunity to enroll in architecture or film production.

Keelan Kaiser, program director of architecture, said the week provided an opportunity to acquaint students to architecture as a profession.

“The Summer Academies are opportunities for high school students to learn about architecture as a discipline and career,” Kaiser said. “Many high schools do not have architecture courses since it is such a specialized field, so this provides students and their families with opportunities to learn.”

Michael Eaton, professor of film studies/film production, said students learn about filmmaking from beginning to end.

“Students will benefit from hands-on learning about film production from the start of preproduction to the finished edit as we spend the week making a short film,” Eaton said.

After filming, the students learned how to edit and then screened their film Friday afternoon.

Kayla Madrid, a junior at North High School in Riverside, said going into the experience she could not wait to learn about how to be a better editor and actor.

“I learned how to act in different situations including serious ones. It has been so fun, and I can’t wait to learn about the editing process,” Madrid said midway through the week.

Faith Kelly, a senior who is homeschooled, was surprised to learn that she was a natural at acting and enjoyed the preproduction process.

“I learned that I am not as terrible of an actor as I thought I was,” Kelly said. “I also really enjoyed coming up with the story for our short film and the brainstorming process. It was a lot of fun once we wrote everything down on paper.”

Collin Veil, a senior at Ramona High School in Riverside, has always been interested in pursuing film as a career and was excited to learn as much as he could from the summer camp.

“I have learned how to film a bunch of different shots I never knew I could film and realized it is easier than it seems,” Veil said. “But I also learned there is so much I don’t know. It’s been really fun.”

 

Architecture program featured in magazine’s virtual festival 

Academic work by students in the architecture program at California Baptist University was showcased in the Dezeen Virtual Design Festival on July 2. Ten designs by CBU students were featured in the online architecture and design magazine based in London.

“Being featured doubles as a celebration of great work from our school as well as international visibility,” said Keelan Kaiser, architecture program director in the College of Architecture, Visual Arts and Design.

The magazine invited academic architecture programs to participate in the festival. Kaiser asked CBU faculty to choose the most creative and distinctive works from their design classes this past academic year. The final 10 designs represent a range of work from first- through fifth-year students in the program.

Many of the designs seek to serve the public good, Kaiser said, citing examples including an urban agriculture development, a healthcare clinic, and spaces for worship.

 

CBU duo earn gold at national advertising competition

A California Baptist University student and an alumna both received gold awards for their work at the American Advertising Federation (AAF) national awards, marking the first time CBU earned two national gold awards. The awards, also known as the ADDYs, were livestreamed on June 11.

Colton Dall, a graphic design senior, and Chelsea Moore (’21) both earned gold for their entries.

“Winning a national gold ADDY is the pinnacle of achievements for our graphic design and illustration students,” said Mark Roberson, dean of the College of Architecture, Visual Arts and Design. “There were about 35,000 entries this year and there were only 24 national level gold awards given, making winning a national just a little rarer than getting struck by lightning.”

Dall won for his entry titled “Tour Branding” in the student category for “out-of-home & ambient media: outdoor campaign.” His project promoted Radiohead, an English rock band. He had won gold at the AAF Inland Empire Awards and then silver in AAF District 15, which covers Southern California and Southern Nevada.

“This project was really more of a representation of Radiohead rather than a fresh take on them. As the project progressed, I began to really lean into their music and how they have a unique ability to take the chaotic and somehow make it mesh together,” Dall said. “I tried to reflect that balance in my pieces by having the chaotic paired with the neat throughout the campaign.”

Dall said when he first started the project, his drafts were not very good and his professor, Dirk Dallas, program director of graphic design, noticed that too.

“I decided to just start doing whatever felt good, throwing any principles and requirements I held out the window. As I worked on it throughout the night the meaning started to unfold, and I felt like the posters began to design themselves,” Dall said. “A huge thank you to Professor Dallas for pushing me and seeing the potential in me when I didn’t see it in myself.”

Moore won for “Sensodyne” in the student category for “out-of-home & ambient media: poster campaign.” She had won silver at the AAF Inland Empire Awards and gold in AAF District 15.

“The idea is a visual metaphor,” Moore said. “My campaign is a set of posters for the toothpaste brand Sensodyne. Since they market for sensitivity, I wanted to empathize with people who have sensitive teeth in a way that visually showed just how painful sensitive teeth can be.”

Moore said she was shocked when she learned of her win.

“I had no expectations with the ADDYs and my project. I am an illustrator, not much of a designer,” Moore said. “I am very honored and humbled.”

 

Family Updates

 

Christopher Yanney (’21), flight instructor I, is one of four recipients of the 2021 CAE Entry Level Jet Scholarship through the University Aviation Association. The scholarship, valued at $17,000, will let Yanney pursue jet type rating training, which will allow him to fly private jets.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Mark Kling, associate professor of criminal justice, and Dr. Linda-Marie Sundstrom, associate professor of public administration, both for Online and Professional Studies, had an article published in the PA Times on June 15. It was titled The Consequences of Law Enforcement Reform: Avoiding the “Hollow Force.”

 

 

 

Stephanie Moreno, department secretary for Allied Health Professions, was named employee of the month for July. Her nomination included the following statements: “Stephanie is very warm, friendly, inviting, and confident in her ability to interact with others and leave them feeling fully served. Stephanie’s knowledge of campus systems has equipped her to handle most situations, yet she is comfortable seeking assistance from others as necessary.”

 

 

 

Dr. Jin-Sil Mock, assistant professor of education, and Dr. Rose Pike, assistant professor of teacher education, presented at the Annual Meredith Fellows Implementation Conference on July 8-9. Their session was titled Three-day edTPA Workshop Model to Support Candidates During Student Teaching. In addition, the Stanford Center for Assessment, Learning and Equity recently identified Dr. Bonnie G. Metcalf School of Education teacher credential program as making progress to closing the performance gap among diverse communities of candidates in edTPA (Teacher Performance Assessment).

 

Christopher Kern, assistant professor of photography, was sworn onto the board of directors of the Chaffey Community Museum of Art in Ontario on July 8. He will serve a two-year term.

 

 

 

 

Philip Breitenbucher, assistant professor of social work, was a panel member on a webinar hosted by Redmane Technology on July 15. The webinar was titled Secondary Trauma: Self Care Intervention Approaches to Build Resiliency.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Tae Sung, associate professor of English, and two students, Joseph Arriaga and Eunice Hahn, presented papers at the Conference on Christianity and Literature on June 23-24. Sung’s paper was titled A Happier Reincarnation: The Rhetoric of Gifts in African American and Asian American Literature. Arriaga’s paper was titled Disenchanting Violence: Literary Patterns of Violence in Light of Charles Taylor, and Hahn’s paper was titled Antiracist Solutions from the 90’s: Exploring Racial Coalition in Ted Chiang’s ’Story of Your Life.’

 

 

Dr. Erin Smith, associate professor of psychology, wrote a blog for the Center for the Study of Human Behavior that was later translated into Spanish and published in the Spanish version of the Gospel Coalition (June 25). The blog was titled How understanding the brain teaches me to love God better.

 

 

 

Dr. Sangmin Kim, professor of public health sciences, co-authored an article in The International Journal of Health, Wellness, and Society (May 10). The title was Correlates of African-born Parents’ Attitudes toward the Utilization of Mental Health Services for their Children.

 

 

 

Tom Hamm, member of the Aviation Science Department Advisory Council and designated flight examiner, designed and built a fuel cart, which he donated to the Department of Aviation Science on June 19. The cart will allow for more efficient refueling by eliminating taxiing to the fuel pumps before or after flights. In turn, that will minimize wear on the aircraft, reduce the cost for students and increase the utilization rate out of the current fleet of aircraft.

 

 

 

Dr. Effat Zeidan Hatoum, assistant professor of general education for Online and Professional Studies, presented at the Edmedia + Innovate Learning 2021 Conference on July 6. Her presentation was titled COVID-19 and the Need for a More Student Focused Learning Approach in Online Settings. Additionally she published an article in Integrative Pathways, a newsletter of the Association for Interdisciplinary Studies (volume 43, number 1). It was titled Nanotechnology: An Interdisciplinary Field at the Forefront of Combatting the COVID-19 Pandemic.

 

 

 

Dr. Noemi Hernandez Alexander, assistant professor of public administration for Online and Professional Studies, presented at the APSA Religion and Politics Early Career Workshop on May 25. The presentation was on the Politics of Latino-Evangelicals. Additionally, she conducted a bilingual workshop for CLASE (Colaboración, Liderazgo, Abogacía, Servicio y Educacíon), part of the Autism Society of Inland Empire, on June 25. The workshop was on Effective Advocacy.

 

 

 

 

David Little, assistant director of graduate admissions, and Katie Minyard, graduate admissions counselor, presented at the NACCAP (North American Coalition for Christian Admissions Professionals) Annual Conference on May 25-28. The presentation was titled The Dos and Don’ts of the Virtual Information Session.

 

 

 

Dr. Sandra Romo, associate professor of communication, and Dr. Shannon Leinen, adjunct professor of communication, both for Online and Professional Studies, presented research at the National Social Science Association Summer Virtual Seminar on July 19. The title was Universal Assessment Practices Across Traditional and Online Programs: A critical analysis of assessment strategies used in multiple teaching modalities.

 

 

Dr. Ana Gamez, associate professor of psychology, Dr. Anne-Marie Larsen, professor of psychology, and Mikael Rollins, a ’17 alumnus of the graduate program in forensic psychology, were panelists for the Broward County Crime Commission’s eighth annual narcotics conference on April 29. The panel was titled Understanding the Mindset of a Drug Dealer and Drug Kingpin.

 

 

 

Dr. Michael Patterson, adjunct professor of organizational leadership for Online and Professional Studies, published a book. It was titled Mission First, People Always: The Definitive Guide to Balancing People and Performance (Ambassador Associates, June 20).

 

 

Ruth Noemy Wheeler, lecturer of music, was selected to participate at the International Conducting Workshop and Festival 2021 in Katy, Texas, on July 12-19.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Nathan Iverson, associate professor of psychology, married Cecilia Rios on June 26. They were married at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Moreno Valley.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Brittney Prieto, safety services officer II, and her husband, Christian, welcomed a son on July 7. Weston Rae Prieto weighed 8 pounds, 1 ounce and measured 21.5 inches.

 

 

 

 

Brenda Tait, human resources benefits administrator, and her husband, Tim, welcomed their first grandchild on June 16. Bennett Michael Tait weighed 7 pounds, 7 ounces and measured 20 inches. His parents are Timothy (’12) and Hannah Tait.

 

 

 

 

Stephanie Arjona, athletic academic counselor, and her husband, Daniel (‘16), welcomed a daughter on June 20. Daniella Ryann Arjona weighed 5 pounds, 15 ounces and measured 19.75 inches.

 

 

 

 

 

Personnel Updates

 

In this issue…

• Current News
• Family Updates
• Personnel Updates

Current News

CBU prepares for in-person instruction, campus activities

After nearly a year and a half of disruption caused by the coronavirus pandemic, California Baptist University is preparing to welcome students back to campus this fall with a full range of academic and extracurricular programming.

“We are excited to resume a more normal campus experience for students and employees alike,” CBU President Dr. Ronald L. Ellis said July 1.

“The past 17 months have been challenging for everyone but thankfully we are seeing things similar to pre-pandemic conditions,” Ellis said.

The decision to resume in-person instruction this fall was announced in January based on the increasing availability of COVID-19 vaccinations. Since then, as the numbers of cases, hospitalizations and deaths have subsided, state and federal health officials have eased restrictions on public gatherings and lifted social distancing and face covering requirements for fully vaccinated individuals.

In addition to returning to in-person academic instruction this fall, Ellis said CBU also is preparing to welcome live audiences back to campus activities. These will include fine arts performances such as theater productions and musical concerts as well as intercollegiate athletics.

“The 2021-22 season marks the final year of CBU’s transition to full membership in NCAA Division I, so I know the Lancer Nation shares our excitement that fans once again will be able to attend CBU athletic events in person,” Ellis said. “I can’t wait to join thousands of fans cheering our Lancer teams as they continue building a winning legacy in the Western Athletic Conference.”

Ellis said CBU will stay on top of pandemic developments and employ best practices to ensure the return to live, in-person instruction and campus activities remain safe for CBU students, employees and visitors.

 

SAE club places 4th in Formula competition 

The temperature was not the only thing that was hot in Las Vegas for the Formula SAE International Competition.

In just its fifth year of racing, the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) club from California Baptist University finished fourth overall in the competition held June 16-19. The Lancers placed ahead of all the other California schools and others such as Purdue University, University of Nebraska–Lincoln and Iowa State University.

“CBU students overcame not only the heat wave in Las Vegas but the extreme pressure of competing against the nation’s top schools in a grueling Formula SAE vehicle competition,” said Dr. Phil van Haaster, club advisor and department chair of aerospace, industrial and mechanical engineering.

With temperatures at 115 degrees, the schedule was adjusted to an earlier start time of 5:30 a.m. During the endurance event, where two drivers each drive the car for a total of 22 kilometers, it was 102 degrees.

“Even with the hot weather of Vegas, the car performed extremely well,” said Tyler Carlisle (’21), one of the four CBU drivers. “I am very proud of how well our team did at this year’s competition. I am very excited about where the club is currently and know next year’s car and team will be even stronger.”

Out of 36 teams, CBU was one of only seven to pass the technical inspection on the first day. The team worked on the car, known as Lancer 4, for two years since the last year’s event was canceled due to the pandemic. However, the work was not done for the 15 members who attended the competition. During inspection, the team had to modify the exhaust in order to pass the noise test. Later, a part malfunctioned during the autocross event. A fix was made in time to allow the team to get back on the track.

Jordan Fabbrini, a mechanical engineering senior and the incoming president of the SAE club, described lessons he learned for next year’s car.

“Keep designs as simple as possible. Complex parts are difficult to try and fix or make and when it’s race day, you don’t have much time to fix the car,” Fabbrini said. “Our car is very competitive with the top schools. We just need to keep making fine adjustments and make sure to test the car as much as we can. Having extra testing this past year really boosted driver confidence.”

The SAE competition includes presentations on cost and design as well as dynamic events such as acceleration and autocross. The presentations were virtual earlier in the year. In design, CBU tied for 20th place out of 140 teams. In Las Vegas, the car placed fifth in endurance and third in efficiency, which is determined by how much fuel the vehicle uses in the endurance run.

“We are ecstatic about the results of the competition,” said Katie Mast (’21) club president and the design lead on the driver controls. “It has been an amazing week for the team as we have been able to witness the culmination of two years of hard work pay off. The team left even more excited about the development of Lancer 5.”

Fabbrini credits the team’s success to alumni who established the program.

“The team has had great guidance from our previous two presidents, Spencer Judy and Katie Mast,” Fabbrini said. “It’s quite an accomplishment for such a small school to be competing and beating out some of the very well-known and prestigious engineering universities.”

In their first competition in 2017, the Lancers placed 67th. In the following years, they placed 44th and 31st.

“I am very proud of our team and have high expectations for the graduated seniors entering industry as well as the advancing juniors taking over for next year,” van Haaster said. “When considering the engineering effort invested into building a competitive racing vehicle from scratch, this performance is truly remarkable.”

 

Orientation prepares new students for fall semester 

New incoming students attended New Student Orientation at California Baptist University on June 21 in preparation for the 2021 fall semester.

About 300 first-year and transfer students attended the event along with their parents.

Throughout the day, students and parents heard information about CBU’s purpose, housing, meal plans and financial aid. They also received a glimpse of the resources and experiences available on campus.

Daniel Garcia, assistant director of new student programs, said the orientation provided the incoming students an opportunity to learn the ins and outs of CBU from staff, faculty and current students.

“The purpose of NSO is for new students to learn more about CBU as an institution and how to navigate their journey as a student,” Garcia said. “Our hope is that this process will clearly outline their next steps and bring excitement and confidence as they prepare for the coming semester.”

Brycen McGowan, from Corona, California, chose CBU because of its engineering program. He plans to pursue mechanical engineering.

“I learned a lot about campus life and how seriously they take getting everyone connected not just with other students but also with the faculty members,” McGowan said. “I’m really excited to study my major, to dive in and learn.”

His mom, Jennifer McGowan, said the presentations reassured her that he is at the right place.

“It was great to hear the practical aspects of what’s available for them on campus. I loved all the apps that they have to make it really easy for students to get connected and know what’s going on,” Jennifer said. “The intentionality of their mission and their heart for this next generation, it’s just really encouraging.”

Tatiana Johnson, from Corona, will pursue biology. She acknowledged it is difficult for her to ask for help, but the presenters made her feel that it is OK to ask.

“I’m looking forward to meeting new people and having a really good education and focusing on what I need to do in order to succeed in life,” Johnson said.

“I loved the resources that they have for the students,” her mom, Theresa Johnson, said. “She is able to go and talk with somebody and know that there are mentors here and other people to help her. She’s not alone.”

Sailor Boden, from Canyon Lake, California, will pursue business administration. She chose CBU because her brother goes here.

“I’m really excited to get started on my future and have things more geared to what I want to do as a career and have faith included in my education,” Boden said.

Orientation will be offered two more times before the start of the fall semester. Students who are unable to attend have the option to complete an online orientation. Go to New Student Orientation for more information.

 

Young Eagles event helps youths take flight

Zayanna Mejico, 11, was a little intimidated to go up in a small aircraft. That changed after participating at a Young Eagles event, sponsored by Experimental Aircraft Association and hosted by California Baptist University at the Riverside Municipal Airport on June 12.

“Flying in the plane was really awesome. I was actually nervous before flying in the plane, but now I want to learn to fly one myself,” Mejico said. “I have been in airplanes to go to different places, but it wasn’t this low where you can see everything.”

Experimental Aircraft Association aims to introduce children to aviation through its Young Eagles program. At the event, more than 20 youths ages 8-17 learned about planes, tried CBU’s aircraft simulators, and took a 20-minute plane ride.

Tyler Powell and Chris Salazar, both flight instructor II at CBU, were among the pilots who volunteered to provide flights. CBU students helped on the ground.

“It gives the opportunity for us pilots to show the younger generation the beauty of aviation and the passion we have for the industry,” Salazar said. “Maybe even inspiring them to one day become a pilot, whether professional or recreational.”

Powell said he got into aviation as a teenager when someone offered him a plane ride.

“Everyone thinks flying is standing in the security line at airport terminals. That’s far from the truth,” said Powell, coordinator for the local Young Eagles chapter. “It’s cool to see what aviation is.”

Andy Manriquez, 17, a graduate of Avery Downey High School, was excited to participate.

“I was already familiar with flying in a plane, but it was my first time flying in a small low-wing aircraft, which was fun,” Manriquez said. “I want to get as much experience as I can flying, because I want to get my private pilot’s license in the future.”

Abraham Gustafson, 13 and a student at Riverside STEM Academy, said he enjoyed the experience.

“It was great getting to look out of the plane and learning how to fly,” Gustafson said. “I really got to see close up how the pilot flew the plane and how he would turn.”

 

Family Updates

Dr. Elisa Shepard, associate professor of psychology, Dr. Dirk Davis, associate vice president of academics, and Dr. Robert Shields, assistant professor of computer information technology, all for Online and Professional Studies, co-presented a poster virtually at the 2021 UPCEA Annual Conference on April 8. It was titled Examining a Teaching Assistant Model for Online Courses.

 

 

Christopher Kern, assistant professor of photography, served as a judge and portfolio reviewer for the 2021 Photography Spring Show at his alma mater, Academy of Art University – San Francisco, on May 20.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Carol Minton-Ryan, professor of sociology, had a book review published in the Journal of the Royal Anthropological Institute (June 2021). She reviewed Jessica Johnson’s In search of gender justice: rights and relationships in matrilineal Malawi.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Joshua Rodriguez, assistant professor of music theory and composition, had musical compositions accepted to The American Prize competition. He is a finalist in three categories: Chamber Music, Band and Orchestral.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Erin Smith, associate professor of psychology, and Dr. Robert Crosby, associate professor of psychology for Online and Professional Studies, published a paper in a special issue of the Journal for Prevention and Intervention in the Community. The paper was titled The effect of socially supportive church ministry on children’s prosocial behaviour: An experimental study of Latin American Protestant Congregations. Dr. Krystal Hays, assistant professor of psychology, was the issue’s guest editor.

 

Dr. Tim Gramling, dean of the Dr. Robert K. Jabs School of Business, gave a sermon at the Second Birth Church of Riverside on June 13. It was titled Some Questions for God: We choose, God is in control, and together we conquer.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Shawn Wilhite, associate professor of Christian studies for Online and Professional Studies, presented at the North American Patristics Society conference on May 24-28. The title of the presentation was He divides his narrative between two seasons: ΚΑΙΡΟΣ as an Exegetical Rule in Athanasius and Cyril of Alexandria. He also served as the conference program manager.

 

 

 

Dr. John Park, assistant professor of psychology, and Sarah Weber, a Doctor of Psychology student, presented a lecture session at the American Association of Behavioral and Social Sciences conference on June 14-15. It was titled The role of religious and spiritual leaders in the provision of suicide interventions. He also co-wrote a paper in the Journal of Behavioral and Social Sciences (December 2020). It was titled Influence of Gender Role Attitude on Depression in Korean Employed Married Women: Focusing on the Differences Between Full-Time (FT) Workers and Part-Time (PT) Workers.

 

 

Dr. Daniel Prather, professor of aviation science, served as project manager and principal investigator for the University Aviation Association in its 2021 Employment Survey of collegiate aviation faculty nationwide. Findings related to tenure, promotion, workload and salary levels are used by aviation programs as an industry benchmark.

 

 

 

Dr. Raquel Ellis, assistant professor of social work, has been appointed as a reviewer for the Journal on Social Work Education. She will serve three years.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Mark Anklam, professor of chemical engineering and bioengineering, presented at the 95^th ACS Colloid and Surface Science Symposium on June 15. The title was Adsorption of Phenols on Surfactant-Modified Ion Exchange Resins. The presentation was co-authored by Nathanael Hovda, a chemical engineering student.

 

 

 

Gary Steward, adjunct professor of history for Online and Professional Studies, published a book titled Justifying Revolution: The American Clergy’s Argument for Political Resistance, 1750-1776 (Oxford University Press, June 2021).

 

 

 

Dr. Thomas Jernejcic, associate professor of computer information technology, successfully defended his dissertation on March 29. He earned for a Doctor of Philosophy in Information Systems from Dakota State University. The title of his dissertation was The Role of Privacy within the Realm of Healthcare Wearables’ Acceptance and Use.

 

 

 

Dr. Monica O’Rourke, professor of kinesiology, presented at the Christian Society for Kinesiology, Leisure, and Sport Studies Conference in Nashville on June 13-16. The title was Christian love, sexual health & sexual integrity: The climate among college-aged students.

 

 

 

 

The sons of Teresa Sheets, administrative assistant I, and Elizabeth Romo, administrative assistant for enrollment services, both for Online and Professional Studies, graduated from Ramona High School on May 24. Hayden Sheets and Christian Romo will be attending CBU in the fall.

 

 

 

 

Personnel Updates

 

In this issue…

• Current News
• Family Updates
• Personnel Updates

Current News

 

Family Updates

Dr. Deron Walker, professor of English, and Dr. Sounghwa Walker, adjunct professor of psychology, authored an article published in the journal Educational Review (Vol. 73 No. 3). The article was titled Empowering care in the inner-city: meeting standards with high expectations. Additionally, Dr. Deron Walker made a virtual presentation to the Teacher’s College–Universitas Pelita Harapan in Indonesia on April 23. The presentation was titled Empowering care: Motivating college English writing classes even through COVID-19.    

 

 

Cecily Dussell, laboratory coordinator for Natural and Mathematical Sciences, was named employee of the month for June. Her nomination included the following statements: “Cecily puts the needs and safety of the student above all else. She works tirelessly to ensure that our laboratories are safe, efficient, and running in such a way that provides students with an excellent educational experience.”

 

 

 

 

Dr. Jong-Kyung Kim, associate professor of kinesiology, co-wrote an article for the European Journal of Sport Science (May 2021). The title was Effects of chronic dietary grape seed extract supplementation on aortic stiffness and hemodynamic responses in obese/overweight males during submaximal exercise.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Steve Kong, adjunct professor of education, presented at the Annual Conference on Research in Equity and Sustained Participation in Engineering, Computing and Technology on May 23-27. The title was Defining and delivering “equity” in an RPP. Additionally, the presentation was published in the conference journal.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Mark Kling, associate professor of criminal justice, and Dr. Linda-Marie Sundstrom, associate professor of public administration, both for Online and Professional Studies, had an article published in the PA Times on May 20. It was titled Demilitarize the Police: A Framework for Safe Communities.

 

 

 

Dr. Thomas Frederick, professor of psychology, Dr. Yvonne Thai, associate professor of sociology, and Dr. Scott Dunbar, associate professor of human resource management, all for Online and Professional Studies, published an article in Religions (May 2021). It was titled Coping with Pastoral Burnout Using Christian Contemplative Practices.

 

 

 

Dr. Jennifer Costello, assistant professor of social work, co-authored an article in the Journal of Nursing and Patient Safety (December 2020). It was titled An Integrated Behavioral Health to Non-communicable Disease in Cambodia.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Carla Liu, associate professor of English and TESOL, co-authored an article in the CATESOL Journal (2020-21). The title of the article was Developing English Prosody using Technology and Pronunciation Reformulation Techniques.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Kendra Flores-Carter, assistant professor of social work, Dr. Aine Bergin, assistant professor of psychology, and Philip Breitenbucher, assistant professor of social work, presented a virtual workshop for the Children’s Network of San Bernardino County on May 25. It was titled Maternal Mental Health and Perinatal Substance Abuse.

 

 

 

CBU’s aviation flight team finished in the top two of the regional National Intercollegiate Flight Association SAFECON competition on March 8, qualifying for the national championships for the first time. CBU went on to finish 14th at the national championships on May 17-18. Captain Joshua Shandley and coach Tyler Powell, flight instructor II, led the Lancers to the national stage.

 

 

 

Dr. Elaine Ahumada, professor of public administration for Online and Professional Studies, participated in a panel discussion for the Inland Empire Chapter of the American Society for Public Administration on May 20. The title was Public Policy: Theory to Practice Forum.

 

 

 

Stefani Plummer, administrative assistant at the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences, was selected to serve a one-year term on the National Intramural-Recreational Sports Association Foundation Board. This position assists with donor relations, conference logistics, Giving Tuesday and Young Donor relations.

 

 

 

Dr. Erin Kirk, adjunct professor of piano, presented at the Society for Musicology in Ireland conference on May 30. The title was The Role of Radio in the Musical Career of George Gershwin.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Chuck Sands, CBU provost and vice president for academic affairs, and his wife, Jennifer, welcomed their first grandchild on April 14. Lucy Grace Morris weighed 8 pounds, 6 ounces and measured 21 inches. Her parents are Kendall (’18) and Amber Leigh (’19) Morris.

 

 

 

 

Dan Guise, husband of Danielle Guise, retention program coordinator for enrollment services for Online and Professional Studies, finalized the stepparent adoption of her daughter, Sadie Grace, 7, on May 24.

 

 

 

 

 

Personnel Updates

 

In this issue…

• Current News
• Family Updates
• Personnel Updates

Current News

SAE club revving up for Formula competition

When the driver of the Formula car made a pitstop, students from the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) club circled around. Some changed the tires, a couple worked on the brakes and others were checking the electronics.

On this track day in April, the California Baptist University students were testing tires and checking the decibels at certain RPMs among other assessments. Harvest Christian Fellowship in Riverside gave the team permission to use part of its parking lot for its track days. The students were preparing for the Formula SAE International Competition set for Las Vegas in June.

“We usually are never this far ahead in our design,” said Katie Mast (’21). “Typically, we are testing after we are done with school for the semester.”

Previous years, the team would scramble to complete the car in time to test it before the competition. The rules only require a new chassis for every competition, but the majority of the car is rebuilt in order to further improve the car’s performance and reliability, Mast said.

When the pandemic shut everything down in March 2020, the car was about 65 percent complete, Mast said. Last fall, the students were able to go back to the shop in the Dennis and Carol Troesh Engineering Building and complete it. The team was aiming for about 25 hours of testing this year, which is more than double than what they normally have, Mast said.

“This was a 2-year car, which was a benefit to us to have that extra time,” Mast said. “Next year, the goal is to condense the design schedule in order to maximize our build time and testing time. The goal every year is to get more testing time to improve reliability.”

Mast had no experience with cars when she joined the Society of Automotive Engineers student club as a freshman. By her senior year she was the club president and the design lead on the driver controls. She is now working at SpaceX.

“My involvement on the team was a highlight of my time at CBU, and I would encourage anyone interested to get involved,” Mast said. “From all disciplines of engineering to business and graphic design majors, SAE provides a platform to gain real-world experience and reinforce the lessons that we are all taught in classes.”

The SAE competition includes presentations on cost and design as well as dynamic events such as acceleration and autocross. The presentations have been held virtually the past few months.

When Mast joined the club, it had about 10 committed students, she said. Now there are about 30, and the club has different positions and structure to transfer knowledge, Mast said. Each subsystem, such as ergonomics, power train and electronics, has a senior design lead, a junior lead who will take over the next year and younger students as interns.

Jordan Fabbrini, a mechanical engineering senior, is the incoming president and the senior design lead for powertrain. The club has taught him about problem-solving.

“I’ve learned technical, hands-on skills along with project management, team structure, staying scheduled and keeping people accountable,” Fabbrini said. “I think that’s been the biggest thing, learning how other people work and trying to get a group of people to work toward a common goal.”

Josh Bigley (’21) is one of the drivers.

“Being a young college kid, I was thinking I’m just going to go as fast as I can. But you have to find that balance, it’s about slowly increasing speed,” Bigley said. “It’s a really strong car, our best one yet. For racing, there are no creature comforts, but it’s fun. It drives really well.”

He is also the senior design lead for the electronics.

“There is a lot of cool technology on the car. It’s just trying to get it all to work in time,” Bigley said. “I’ve learned nothing ever goes the way you think it will. I have this big plan in my mind when I plug everything in, and it doesn’t go the way you expect it to, but you can try to get as close as possible. It’s always problem-solving.”

Dr. Philip van Haaster, club advisor and department chair of aerospace, industrial and mechanical engineering, said academic training is critical to developing the theoretical understanding of physical interactions and interdependence. But real-world events require engineers to be practitioners of theory and spontaneous contributors of innovation.

“Anyone involved with Formula SAE will be exposed to both of these demanding situations,” van Haaster said. “They will analyze vehicle dynamics and apply powerful and proven engineering solutions, while reacting to unforeseen track conditions during the competition that may require the team to pivot and re-evaluate solutions in a matter of hours. Intense? Absolutely! Fulfilling? Undoubtedly!”

Lindsay Monroe, a mechanical engineering sophomore, wants to work on roller coasters in the future. She worked as a driver control intern.

“I was really interested in being a part of an opportunity that allowed me to have hands-on experience, especially my freshman year because I knew it would get me ahead,” Monroe said. “SAE is a very real-world application. We also get to learn things we’ll study later in our years so we’re kind of ahead of our class, which is pretty cool.”

 

Dr. Chris Morgan named 2021 CBU Distinguished Scholar

California Baptist University has named Dr. Chris Morgan, dean of the School of Christian Ministries, as Distinguished Scholar for 2021.

Morgan’s project, titled “Christian Theology: The Biblical Story and Our Faith,” earned him the distinction awarded annually by the CBU Board of Trustees.

“‘Christian Theology: The Biblical Story and Our Faith’ is a textbook for theology courses. It shows how the major doctrines of the Christian faith flow from the biblical storyline of creation, fall, redemption and new creation,” Morgan said in his proposal.

The textbook has a companion dictionary, “A Concise Dictionary of Theological Terms,” that defines the key terms at the end of each chapter in the textbook. Its entries range from “Abrahamic covenant” to “Zwinglian view of Lord’s Supper.”

Morgan, who is also a pastor, has taught courses in theology for 22 years. He has authored or edited 25 books and co-edited the “Systematic Theology Study Bible” and a church history study Bible.

The textbook is being recognized as a standard textbook in many universities and seminaries, including many in Africa, Morgan said. The textbooks are used in classrooms, churches and denominational groups. The volumes also assist university faculty and staff in understanding theology to integrate faith and learning.

“They show how the doctrines and their order flow from the biblical storyline of creation, fall, redemption and new creation. They frame the doctrines in light of the biblical story, biblical exegesis and biblical theology,” Morgan said. “They relate the doctrines to our identity, mission and God’s glory. Finally, they incorporate voices from church history and the global church, highlighting that we study theology in community with the whole people of God.”

 

Dr. Trevor Gillum earns 2021 Distinguished Professor award 

California Baptist University has named Dr. Trevor Gillum, professor of kinesiology, as the Distinguished Professor for 2021.

The CBU Board of Trustees each year selects a professor who has established an impressive record of service to receive the award.

“Dr. Gillum’s demonstrated talent in scholarship surely guides and inspires his teaching, and the record of student achievement and satisfaction he has influenced is commendable,” said Dr. David Pearson, dean of the College of Health Science.

Since his master’s thesis was published in 2006, Dr. Gillum has been lead or contributing author on 28 peer-reviewed publications, 23 peer­reviewed presentations, and many other academic and professional projects. He has led numerous student projects that have been accepted for presentation and/or publication.

Additionally, Gillum has excelled in professional service, which has included reviewing student abstracts, reviewing grant applications and serving on the American College of Sports Medicine national committee.

Gillum has been and continues to be one of CBU’s finest academic scholars and has made substantial contributions in his field of exercise physiology, Pearson said. Given his credentials and accomplishments related to research, Gillum was recently selected by the provost to chair the search for a dean of research at CBU.

Gillum’s professional accomplishments have established him as a wonderful example and mentor to the younger faculty in the Department of Kinesiology as well as the many graduate students who aspire to make their mark in research and teaching, Pearson said.

“The comments from students on Dr. Gillum’s course evaluations are remarkably consistent over his 10 years at CBU,” Pearson said. “Most comments spelled out Dr. Gillum’s ability to make hard content feel attainable and bring comfort to students when they come to him seeking help.”

Gillum has served the CBU campus as a member of the Institutional Review Board as well as on three kinesiology faculty searches. Additionally, he serves outside of CBU, teaching Sunday school at Orangecrest Community Church in Riverside.

Gillum is “a faculty member who displays the indispensable professional characteristics and selfless approach required to be one of the very best at CBU,” Pearson said. 

 

Shayda Hernandez honored as 2021 CBU Employee of the Year 

Shayda Hernandez, a financial aid technician at California Baptist University, has been named Employee of the Year for 2021.

Hernandez was nominated by her supervisor and named CBU Employee of the Month for November 2020. She then was chosen as Employee of the Year by CBU’s Executive Council, which selects the Employee of the Year recipient from among staff members chosen as Employee of the Month during that academic year.

The 2021 Employee of the Year honor recognizes the professional service Hernandez, who started working at CBU in February 2019, provides in Financial Aid.

According to the nomination form, Hernandez strives to understand why something is done, rather than just understanding the process. This allows her to have a foundation on what is happening and to help create more efficient processes. Since her promotion to technician in early 2020, she reviewed and completed over 4,250 FAFSA verifications, which is a record in a single year.

 

Architecture student places in top 10 in design competition

An architecture student from California Baptist University is among the winners of a competition held by the American Institute of Architects Committee on the Environment.

Andriani Sugianto, an architecture graduate student, was named one of winners in the 2021 AIA COTE Top Ten for Students Competition. The competition is open to students at any program that is a member of the Association of Collegiate Schools of Architecture. This year, it received 800 submissions.

Of those 800, the competition recognized 10 projects that integrated creative and innovative design strategies. The competition challenged students to provide design solutions that protect and enhance the environment.

Sugianto placed for her Fairmount School of Art and Ecology entry.

“I am ecstatic about this accomplishment,” Sugianto said. “As I have grown over the years as an architecture student, I have sought to dedicate everything I do for the glory of God and to include Him in my creative process. The more I allow God to be a part of my architectural journey, the more He has blessed me. I certainly could not accomplish anything without His guidance, creativity and strength.”

Her entry is an elementary school that features an artfully scientific design and enhanced learning environments while maintaining high sustainability standards, Sugianto said. The project includes an understanding of ecology, water usage, energy consumption and user well-being. For example, the school uses timber instead of concrete and steel construction, which reduces carbon emissions.

Sugianto said sustainability is a crucial consideration for architecture.

“Sustainability is vital to protect the environment and preserve human flourishing,” Sugianto said. “This establishes an exceptional level of responsibility for the architect to take care of Earth. At the root of it, sustainability stands essential because God desires humanity to nurture His creation and foster healthy lives.”

Caleb Walder, associate professor of architecture, said winning the competition is one of the highest levels of recognition a student of architecture can receive.

“It places our program among excellent and well-established programs from across the country who are equipping students to be leaders in the design of architecture,” Walder said. “It is a tremendous testament to the way God has blessed the CBU architecture program as it has developed over the past several years. The increased recognition of this win will contribute to the positive momentum in the program as it continues to develop.”

Sugianto is excited about the opportunities that may arise from the competition for herself and for CBU, she said.

“This accomplishment indicates the quality of the architecture program in CAVAD and their diligence in teaching and mentorship. Professor Walder provided his guidance throughout this entire project and played a profoundly prominent role in my success,” Sugianto said.

 

CBU celebrates 2020 graduates with in-person ceremonies

Carolina Saucedo earned her Master of Arts in Leadership and Organizational Studies from California Baptist University in 2020. On May 10, she took advantage of the opportunity to celebrate in a live commencement, with her two young children watching in the crowd.

“I’m beyond grateful for the opportunity to walk across the stage. I wanted my kids to see that so that they understood what all the hard work was for,” Saucedo said.

CBU held commencement ceremonies to give the 2020 graduates an opportunity to walk across the stage. Due to the pandemic, the graduates had been celebrated in December with a virtual commencement. More than 780 graduates took part in the four ceremonies on the Front Lawn on May 7 and 10. This was after four days of ceremonies for the 2021 spring graduates.

In his commencement address, Dr. Ronald L. Ellis, CBU president, acknowledged the difficulties the graduates faced and their perseverance through a pandemic.

“Even though sacrifices were made, your true character was exemplified, and the relentless pursuit of your educational goals was steadfast. You manifested what it means to Live Your Purpose,” Ellis said. “We congratulate each one of you! The faculty and the entire university family join me in saying we are proud of you and we pray God’s blessings upon you.”

Ellis encouraged the graduates to lean on the lessons learned at CBU in the future.

“May you move forward with the same resolve that has guided you to this joyful day of celebration,” Ellis said. “May your CBU experience and your CBU degree serve as solid building blocks in a sturdy foundation for all your ambitions and dreams.”

Mariah Despyne earned a Master in Science in Industrial-Organizational Psychology and is working as a human resources administrative assistant.

“Obviously, I know I finished school and I have my degree but being able to walk across the stage and hear my name while wearing the cap and gown really finalizes everything,” Despyne said.

Francesca Vallejo, who earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, works as a mental health counselor at a psychiatric hospital. She said she had to overcome obstacles and trials along the way to getting her degree, so she was grateful for the chance to walk.

“The classes that I took intertwined with the Christian faith and the professors were outstanding. They helped me every step of the way,” Vallejo said. “It gave me not only experience but the tools I needed to be successful, do my job properly and serve the community the way that they should be served. I feel like I am serving my purpose.”

During the ceremonies, CBU recognized the efforts of several students who achieved excellence in their academic accomplishments. Lauren Oliver received the Outstanding Online and Professional Studies Student of 2020 Award. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in English. Henry David Leon Du, a student from Guatemala, received the Min Sung Kim International Student Award. This award is presented each year to a CBU international student who has made outstanding contributions to the CBU community. Du earned a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. Michaela Marie Miller was the recipient of the 2020 Outstanding Senior Award. Miller graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Health Science with a 4.0 GPA.

Additionally, Ellis presented honorary degrees to the family a faculty member who passed away earlier this year. The family of Daniel Robinson, assistant professor of education, received a Doctor of Humane Letters.

 

Students win President’s Award for Excellence in Writing

Laura Farley, a graduate student in education at California Baptist University, is the winner of the 2021 President’s Award for Excellence in Writing.

Farley’s research paper, titled “Establishing an Understanding in Contrastive Rhetoric: Why Is It Important?,” looks at cross-cultural communication.

“This piece begins with a story that draws the reader in and helps make clear why the topic matters — because people and their learning matter. The work is thorough, interesting, informative and also personal,” Dr. Amy Stumpf, professor of society and religion and member of the selection committee, wrote of the paper. “Any teacher could benefit from this project because it offers a thought-provoking theory that is applicable in classroom situations, and it highlights the best of what it means to be a global citizen ready to serve neighbors well.”

Farley received a certificate and a check for $600.

Chandler Broadbent, a doctoral student in clinical psychology, was awarded first runner-up for her paper, “Time-Limited Dynamic Psychotherapy: A Brief Theoretical Overview.” The essay explores a method of caring for mental health including how the Christian faith can be a part of it. Broadbent received a certificate and a check for $360.

Anna Compton, an early childhood studies junior, received second runner-up for her paper, “The Special Project.” Her paper highlights the struggle and blessings of those with special needs and the families and friends who care for and learn from them. The paper also advocates for a scriptural perspective. Compton received a certificate and a check for $240.

A six-member faculty selection committee used a formal voting process to choose the winning entries.

 

CBU concludes 2021 spring commencement ceremonies

California Baptist University wrapped up four days of celebration this week for spring 2021 commencement ceremonies held on the Front Lawn. Graduates received cheers in front of friends and family members at eight ceremonies May 3-6.

Combined applications for graduation for spring 2021 commencement ceremonies included four candidates for doctoral degrees, 624 for master’s degrees and 1,169 for bachelor’s degrees for a total of 1,797 applicants.

In his commencement address, Dr. Ronald L. Ellis, CBU president, said the ceremonies were an opportunity to celebrate the students’ hard work.

“It would be difficult to argue the fact that we are celebrating an exceptional group of graduates –– not only for California Baptist University, but for all time. For more than a year, the very definition of ‘normal’ has been reshaped and redefined repeatedly as you adapted in real time,” Ellis said.

Ellis said the graduates were well prepared to make the most of their CBU experience in their next step in life.

“Graduates of this institution are challenged to become individuals whose skills, integrity and sense of purpose glorify God and distinguish them in the workplace and in the world,” Ellis said. “Those we honor today were uniquely challenged during these times. But all have met that challenge by continuing to develop their knowledge and skills with integrity.”

Madeline Kozelchik earned a Bachelor of Arts in Photography.

“CBU definitely helped me to fulfill my purpose by connecting me to likeminded individuals who will help me, as I will help them, to fulfill our dreams and the purposes that God gave us,” Kozelchik said.

Cheyenne Schoenfelder earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

“CBU got me in the mindset of doing God’s work,” Schoenfelder said. “I grew up in a Christian home, but faith was reiterated with all the classes. I feel like I’m better prepared to serve other people. As a nurse that’s really important.”

Nina Schlesinger, who earned a Master of Social Work, will work for the Office of Refugee Resettlement, working with unaccompanied minors. Previously, she had earned her Master of Arts in Counseling Ministry from CBU. The programs provided her to have a global perspective, she said.

“It prepared me to be the hands and feet of Jesus,” Schlesinger said. “I’m able to work with the vulnerable and oppressed populations at the micro level but also the macro level. We’re ready to go out there and help in every way that we can to work with marginalized populations.”

During the ceremonies, CBU recognized the efforts of several students that achieved excellence in their academic accomplishments.

Ane Olaeta, an international student from Gernika, Spain, received the Min Sung Kim International Student Award that is presented to an international student who has made outstanding contributions to the CBU community. Zackary Kessler of Chino, California, was the recipient of the 2021 Outstanding Senior Award. Kessler earned a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering with a 4.0 GPA. Amy Payne, a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies graduate within the Division of Online and Professional Studies, earned the division’s Student of the Year recognition. Payne graduated with a 4.0 GPA.

Additionally, Ellis presented honorary degrees for two faculty who had passed away during the spring semester. The family of Richard “Rick” Muchow, an instructor of music, received a Doctor of Music degree. The family of Dr. Carla Thornton, assistant professor of social work, received the Doctor of Humane Letters.

 

Family Updates

Dr. Robert Pate, associate professor of psychology, gave a sermon at The Mission church in Redlands on May 2. It was titled It’s Okay Not to Be Okay: Mental Health and the Church.

 

 

 

 

The Lancer Media Group received several Evangelical Press Association Awards. The Banner newspaper received two Awards of Excellence for digital and print. Pursuit magazine earned four Higher Goal Awards.

 

 

 

Christopher Kern, assistant professor of photography, served as a professional reviewer for the American Society of Media Photographers NY Commercial Portfolio Reviews on April 27.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Mark Kling, associate professor of criminal justice, and Dr. Linda-Marie Sundstrom, associate professor of public administration, both for Online and Professional Studies, had an article published in the PA Times on April 15. It was titled Police, Sentencing and Prisons: Maximizing Impacts of Criminal Justice Reform.

 

 

 

Dr. Jacqueline Gustafson, dean of the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences, co-wrote a paper that was published in the Journal of Human Behavior in the Social Environment (May 2021). It was titled The Best Intentions: An Examination of Current Practices in Short-Term International Service Trips Intended to Benefit Vulnerable Children and Youth.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Dennis K. Bideshi, professor of biology, was elected to serve on the Animal DNA Viruses and Retroviruses Subcommittee – Ascoviridae Study Group section of the International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses. The group provides updates on the basic biology, nomenclature and classification of a novel group of large double-stranded DNA viruses.

 

 

 

Andrew Cress, director of special projects in the Office of Educational Effectiveness, co-presented at the 2021 WASC Senior College and University Commission Accreditation Resource Community Conference on April 30. The presentation was titled Using Data for Advocacy.

 

 

 

Jessica Alzen, adjunct professor for Online and Professional Studies, was the lead author on a paper published in Innovative Higher Education (April 27). The title is Academic Coaching and its Relationship to Student Performance, Retention, and Credit Completion.

 

 

 

Dr. Mary Ann Pearson, professor of communication, presented at the PRSA national APR (Accreditation in Public Relations) boot camp for certification candidates on April 28. The event is an intensive course to help candidates prepare for the APR examination. The title of her presentation was Ethics and Public Relations.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Erin Smith, associate professor of psychology, was selected to serve as a science advisor for Portland Seminary as part of the Science in Seminaries project run by the Dialogue on Science, Faith, and Ethics, a program of American Association for the Advancement of Science. The appointment runs through October 2022.

 

 

 

Dr. Chris McHorney, professor of political science, and Dr. Chase Porter, assistant professor of political science, helped create the Stratus index, which aims to help the global church accomplish the Great Commission by knowing where to allocate its resources. They worked with Radical, started by David Platt to help equip the church to bring the Gospel to the nations. To create the index, McHorney and Porter compiled and documented over 220 indicators from 39 sources, such as the Joshua Project and the World Bank. Additionally, the two presented at the 2021 Western Political Science Association Annual Meeting on April 1. The presentation was titled Religions, Denominations, and Social Capital.

 

Two architecture graduate students Celeste Batz and Ian Kirkpatrick won Best of Show in the national 2021 Design Village Competition hosted by Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. Additionally, Joshua Greene (’19) won first place in the student category of the 2020 Institute of Classical Architecture & Art, Northern California Chapter, Julia Morgan Awards.

 

Dr. Ian Clary, adjunct professor of Christian Studies for Online and Professional Studies, had a chapter published in a book, Understanding Andrew Fuller: Life, Thought, and Legacies (May 2021). His chapter is titled “The centre of Christianity — the doctrine of the cross”: Andrew Fuller as a Reformed Theologian.

 

Dr. Elizabeth Rebozo, adjunct professor of music, successfully completed her DMA Recording Project on April 19. She earned a Doctor of Musical Arts in Piano Performance from Claremont Graduate University. Her DMA recording project was titled Frederic Chopin: The Recording Project.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Julie Goodman-Bowling, associate professor of anthropology, completed a training module and workbook with Meghan Lacey (’20) titled Cultural Anthropology: Core Concepts for Trail Missions Missionaries in Zambia. Lacey will use the training course this summer to help train long and short-term missionaries serving with Trail Missions, a Christian missionary organization aimed at reaching rural communities in Zambia, Africa.

 

 

 

Dr. H Bruce Stokes, professor of anthropology and behavioral sciences, co-taught a four-week course for the Messianic Jewish Theological Institute during May 2021. The course was titled Chavurot and House Churches as Household Spirituality. It addressed the historical use of household gatherings and small house churches as providers of spiritual formation and maintenance in Judaism and Christianity.

 

 

 

Philip Breitenbucher, assistant professor of social work, presented a session at the North American Association of Christian Social Workers –California chapter conference on April 24. The session was titled Treating Families and Infants Affected by Prenatal Substance Exposure: A story of hope and resilience.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Ash Melika, professor of archaeology and anthropology, had a chapter published in the book An Excellent Fortress for His Armies, a Refuge for the People: Egyptological, Archaeological, and Biblical Studies in Honor of James K. Hoffmeier (2020). The chapter is titled The Founding of the Temple in Ancient Egypt: Ritual and Symbolism. Melika also earned a Master of Theology in Old Testament from Gateway Seminary this month.

 

 

 

The communication sciences and disorders undergraduate student club, NSSLHA CBU Chapter, was awarded Gold chapter honors by the national Speech Language Hearing Association for its involvement and contribution to the community.

 

 

Kathy Jenkins, student accounts assistant, and her husband, Bob, welcomed their fourth grandchild on April 20. Avery Ann Zajac weighed 9 pounds, 3 ounces and measured 21¾ inches. Her parents are Kevin & Katy Zajac (nee Robinson ‘12).

 

 

 

 

 

Dr. Riste Simnjanovski, associate professor of public administration for Online and Professional Studies, and his wife, Dr. Lauren Gutenberg, welcomed a daughter on March 30. Elle Elise weighed 5 pounds, 13 ounces and measured 18.5 inches. She joins brother Uriah, 23 months.

 

 

Personnel Updates

In this issue…

• Current News
• Family Updates
• Personnel Updates

Current News

CBU celebrates graduates at spring commencement ceremonies

Dr. Ronald L. Ellis, president of California Baptist University, congratulated hundreds of graduating students during two commencement ceremonies held on the Front Lawn on May 3.

From May 4-6, CBU will hold six additional ceremonies to honor the 2021 graduates. Another four ceremonies will be held May 7 and 10 to honor the 2020 graduates who were celebrated in December with a virtual commencement. To stay in compliance with health guidelines due to COVID-19, the ceremonies are being held outdoors. Each one features approximately 200 graduates and limited guests.

Combined applications for graduation for spring 2021 commencement ceremonies included four candidates for doctoral degrees, 624 for master’s degrees and 1,169 for bachelor’s degrees for a total of 1,797 applicants.

Ellis said the graduates had navigated the various requirements necessary to receive their diploma. They also adapted to changes and interruptions caused by a global pandemic.

“Each of these graduating students has arrived at this point because of a shared commitment to the challenging yet rewarding endeavor of higher education. Each one has overcome obstacles to achieve this goal,” Ellis said. “The Board of Trustees, administrators, faculty and staff members join to celebrate and honor the exceptional efforts each of you has made to earn your degree.”

Dr. Anthony Dockery, chair of the CBU Board of Trustees, recognized the specialness of the in-person celebration.

“Indeed, this is the day that the Lord has made and we are already rejoicing and being glad in it. I know we want to celebrate,” Dockery said.

He also encouraged the graduates to use the Great Commission training they received at CBU to benefit others.

“We know commencement is not about an ending, it’s all about a new beginning. We are grateful for all the time these students have poured in to prepare for such a time as this,” Dockery said. “I pray that whatever role [they] move into, that they indeed will be that city that is set upon a hill that can’t be hid and will live their purpose.”

Ellis reminded the graduates they were leaving with the qualities embodied in the university student outcomes, known as the Core Four — Academically Prepared, Biblically Rooted, Globally Minded and Equipped to Serve.

“I hope these outcomes will continue to inspire you going forward, and that from time to time you will reflect on how they influence you as you live your lives and serve others,” Ellis said.

Lilia Riccio, a Bachelor of Arts in History graduate, said she was very happy when CBU announced plans for commencement.

“I feel like you need the closure,” Riccio said.

“CBU showed me what it means to be a teacher and be a Christian,” said Riccio, who plans to be a teacher. “My professors led by example and provided good encouragement and mentored as I moved forward on that path.”

Fernando Albarran, a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice graduate, plans to go into law enforcement.

“CBU helped me with my communication skills and my teamwork skills and helped me grow more confident in my plans for the future,” Albarran said.

 

Distinguished students ring in commencement ceremonies

California Baptist University will celebrate 2021 spring commencement from May 3-6 for nearly 1,800 students who are qualified to participate in the eight ceremonies.

Tradition calls for a distinguished scholar to ring the bell prior to each ceremony. Each toll of the bell represents one decade of the university’s existence. The bell will ring seven times at each of the ceremonies to commemorate the seven decades of academic excellence. CBU was established in 1950.

On May 3, Eunice Hahn, a Bachelor of Arts in English candidate, will ring the bell at the 9:30 a.m. ceremony, and Katelin Booth, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Christian Studies and in Graphic Design and Visual Experience, will do so at the 2 p.m. ceremony. On May 4, Michelle Senter, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing candidate, will ring the bell at the 9:30 a.m. ceremony, and Kaycee Binder, a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science candidate, will do so at the 2 p.m. event. On May 5, Grace Normoyle, a Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering candidate, will ring the bell at the 9:30 a.m. ceremony, and Noel Akeh, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Architecture and a Master of Architecture, will ring it at the 2 p.m. event. On May 6, Amy Payne, a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies candidate, was chosen to ring the bell at 9:30 a.m. and Nichole Sporcich, a Bachelor of Science in Marketing candidate, will do so at the 2 p.m. event.

Binder, who has a 3.98 GPA, said it was an honor to be selected as a bell ringer. She plans to attend a graduate program to become a physical therapist.

“My professors propelled me on my career path through encouraging the pursuit of physical therapy,” Binder said. “I chose CBU because I was looking for an undergraduate school that would allow me to learn from knowledgeable, Christ-centered professors, as well as find like-minded friends who love God and their future career paths, and I am extremely blessed to have found that.”

Booth, whose GPA is 3.95, said reaching graduation was more special after the unpredictability of the past year.

“I learned from outstanding professors and gained the knowledge and tools necessary to step into my career field,” Booth said. “I was also able to learn from many people who challenged me to grow spiritually. I now have a genuine understanding of my faith and am better equipped to go out into the world to share the Good News with others for the glory of God.”

Normoyle, who has a 4.0 GPA, plans to work for Edwards Air Force Base in navigation and guidance testing.

“I have loved how the engineering department focused on integrating our faith with engineering and making our jobs and life a mission field,” Normoyle said. “Professors and faculty were there beside me pushing me to figure out what God’s purpose is for me and after that they were right there to support me.”

Akeh, whose GPA is 3.65, said when she learned she was chosen as a bell ringer she was excited and felt a sense of satisfaction that her hard work paid off.

“As an aspiring young architect, CBU surrounded me with like-minded students and excellent professors, who married the technical concepts with their spiritual values,” Akeh said. “CBU helped me become a well-rounded architect, able to see the light at the end of the tunnel, while remaining positive throughout this incredible and enriching journey.”

 

Hooding ceremonies highlight graduates’ academic success

Hundreds of master’s degree candidates at California Baptist University are celebrating their academic achievements at department specific hooding ceremonies, leading up to commencement ceremonies May 3-6.

More than 620 master’s degree candidates and four doctoral candidates are eligible to participate in the spring commencements. At CBU, colleges and schools hold individual hooding ceremonies to recognize their candidates and give students their distinctive colored hoods to wear at their commencement ceremony.

The College of Behavioral and Social Sciences has the largest group of master’s candidates with 190. The Dr. Bonnie G. Metcalf School of Education has the second largest group with 93 candidates. Additionally, the Online and Professional Studies division has 150 master candidates and three doctoral candidates for graduation throughout its various programs.

At the applied mathematics hooding on April 23, Dr. Linn Carothers, department chair of mathematical sciences, told the graduates that the ceremony is like passing the torch.

“Some of you are going to go into teaching, some of you are going to go into research, some of you are going to teach at various levels. But actually, everyone in this room is the teacher because you’re handing off your skills to other people,” Carothers said. “We have yet to see what God’s going to go do with each of you as you live your purpose.”

Alondra Cano, who earned a Master of Science in Applied Mathematics, said the professors helped prepare the students for the future.

“They are extremely invested in the students and genuinely want the best for you. They push you and motivate you to be your best and to move forward as well as have faith at the same time,” Cano said.

Rachel Robinson, who earned a Master of Science in Applied Mathematics, received her bachelor’s from CBU as well. She plans to pursue her doctorate.

“The professors have really helped me strengthen my math and writing skills. They really prepared me for everything I am about to encounter in the future,” Robinson said.

 

A glance back at commencement ceremonies

Commencement at California Baptist University is in-person this spring, returning to the Front Lawn.

As CBU has grown, commencement ceremonies have been held in various locations, including the Front Lawn, the Citizens Business Bank Arena (now Toyota Arena) in Ontario, California, and the Events Center.

A few faculty and staff share memories of past ceremonies and advice for graduates.

Debbie Passalacqua, associate director of graduate admissions, has been at CBU 20 years.

What are some of your favorite memories of commencement?
I still remember when the graduate student commencement was on the Front Lawn, in the evening with the stage under the lighted palm trees. It was a beautiful, inspiring sight. My job then was to dismiss the rows of graduates to receive their diplomas. I was happy for the opportunity to greet the students and see the journey come full circle for those I had helped admit to CBU. Another favorite memory is when I had “bobby pin duty” at Citizens Business Bank Arena. I made sure the graduates’ mortar boards and hoods were on correctly. It was a festive, happy atmosphere I was happy to be a part of.

How has commencement changed during the time you have been here?
In 2001, from my office in the James Building, I could hear the stage being built. During my time here, the undergraduate and graduate commencements have been separated and locations have changed. The one thing that has not changed is the meticulous planning. I know this week’s commencements will be wonderful events.

What advice do you have for graduates?
Getting your degree is just part of the journey. There will always be something more to learn. Don’t be afraid to take chances and ask for help when needed. Don’t give up on your dreams. Have faith in yourself and, of course, have faith that the Lord has a plan for your life.

Kris Smith, assistant director of mobilization, has been at CBU 26 years.

What are some of your favorite memories of commencement?
My favorite memory of graduation was the spring of 2003 or 2004. The weather forecast changed quickly, and we were faced with a prediction of rain. After having the Front Lawn set for commencement, we ordered a tent to cover the lawn. We had to remove thousands of chairs so they could install the tent. All the Student Services staff had to reset the chairs in the middle of the night after the tent was installed. We ordered pizza and just worked until it was done. On graduation morning, the procession happened and when the ceremony started, there was a downpour. By the time the ceremony finished two hours later, the sun came out.

How has commencement changed during the time you have been here?
Commencement used to be celebrated on the Front Lawn for many years for undergraduates. Graduate students had a separate ceremony in Stamps Courtyard on Friday night. Both ceremonies were lovely. It was a beautiful setting and a big family celebration. As the number of graduates grew, the event was moved to the Citizens Business Bank Arena. With the completion of the CBU Events Center, it was wonderful to bring the ceremonies back to campus.

What advice do you have for graduates?
Walk. When you are getting ready to walk across that stage to accept your diploma, you will be glad you participated. You are worth being celebrated for this accomplishment. The only regrets come from those who decided not to walk.

Dr. Robert Shields, director of curriculum development for Online and Professional Studies, has been at CBU 21 years.

What are some of your favorite memories of commencement?
Over the years, I’ve enjoyed serving at commencement as an usher. It was always fun to participate in this way — it gave me a direct way to celebrate with the graduates and their families. As CBU faculty and staff, we work hard to ensure that each and every graduate is fully equipped to live their purpose. Attending commencement gives us an opportunity to see the “why” behind the work that we do day in and day out. Seeing familiar faces in caps and gowns and hearing familiar names read on the loudspeakers as graduates walk across the stage provides a feeling of fulfillment.

How has commencement changed during the time you have been here?
In earlier years, commencement was held on the Front Lawn. As the event grew, it was relocated to the Citizens Business Bank Arena. The CBU Events Center has proven to be the perfect location for commencement. It was nice to be able to bring commencement back to the CBU campus.

What advice do you have for graduates?
Congratulations on reaching this milestone! You’ve proven to yourself and others that you can accomplish great things. Know that God has even more in store for you. Don’t stop setting goals for yourself. Follow that desire that God has placed in your heart and go for it!

Dr. Amy Stumpf, professor of society and religion, has been at CBU 26 years.

What are some of your favorite memories of commencement?
Every year I love hearing the bell ringing to begin the ceremony. Also: wearing shorts underneath my regalia. Not so favorite: Worst sunburn of my life working commencement on the Front Lawn in 1996 or 1997.

How has commencement changed during the time you have been here?
We used to have baccalaureate in the morning and commencement in the afternoon. The baccalaureate was at Magnolia Church. When commencement was on the Front Lawn, maintenance would build a stage. I was in Academic Affairs, and I would ride in an old truck that backfired a lot down to Parkview Nursery, where we would borrow plants to make the stage look better. I was always so embarrassed when the truck would backfire all the way there and back.

What advice do you have for graduates?
Be humble. It is easy to think, “I have a degree now so I deserve a good paying job or a certain lifestyle.” Nope – you are entering the season of life where you have to pay your dues. That takes humility. Thank your professors, individually, if they have had a significant impact on you. YOU are our life’s work.

 

Gift funds new financial analysis software at School of Business

The Dr. Robert K. Jabs School of Business recently received a commitment for $60,000 to fund the latest financial analysis software for the next four years.

It started with a routine call from a faculty member to a prospective student.

Dr. Adele Harrison, professor of finance, had built a relationship with the parent of the prospective student.

“Their family noticed CBU several years ago because of our strong, conservative, Christian stance,” Harrison said.

They had followed the university ever since, considering CBU as a top choice as soon as their son was ready to enter college, she said.

However, the family was disappointed that the Bachelor of Science in Finance program did not have access to a Bloomberg terminal, Harrison said. The software provides real-time financial market data and company/economic research that is available at all the top financial firms such as Morgan Stanley, Merrill, Goldman Sachs and others.

“They really liked CBU but thought a Bloomberg terminal was imperative to their prospective student’s finance degree,” Harrison said. “I said it could be years before I found the money for a terminal.”

Earlier this month the family let Harrison know they would like to discuss making a contribution for a financial terminal.

Harrison revisited discussions with Bloomberg and its competitors. She arranged a demonstration with Refinitiv the same week the family visited CBU. Within 24 hours of the demonstration, the family made its gift. Josh Dunaj, director of development, played a key role in hosting and engaging this family during their visit.

With the terminal, finance students will graduate with a certificate that informs prospective employers that they can access, research and analyze data on par with larger universities such as University of California, Riverside and Chapman University, Harrison said.

“Despite social pressures, we remained true to our beliefs as a university. And we revealed the truth about our program status with this prospective student’s family,” said Dr. Tim Gramling, dean of the School of Business. “Because we operated in the truth, God honored us with this amazing opportunity. Praise be to God!”

 

Engineering students demonstrate their robotic creations

Teams of freshmen at California Baptist University spent the semester constructing robots that raced against each other in the Engineering Design Competition held on April 22.

The participants, who were enrolled in Introduction to Engineering Design (EGR102), cheered as their robots moved across the table in an attempt to collect and deposit orbs.

“We went into this competition wanting to win,” said Gavin Boone, a biomedical engineering freshman. “We had a lot of testing time. We thought we had a good chance.”

His team, EZ Money, succeeded in its effort, winning the event hosted by the Gordon and Jill Bourns College of Engineering. Teammates were Emanuel Ahumada, Chris Althausen, Tyler Bagwill, Elijah Brown, Gianna Gonzales, Syedah Khawar, Ryan Miller, Angela Rodriguez, Mariam Samir, Bernice Sanchez, Eric Schmidt, Jared Shea and Hayden Zielinski.

The annual competition, held in the Dennis and Carol Troesh Engineering Building, was limited to the participating students and faculty. The livestreamed event was part of the college’s 2021 Design Showcase, which also included junior design projects and senior capstone projects.

Dr. Mark Gordon, associate professor of biomedical engineering, said the experience teaches students the design process.

“We try to teach them that they need to brainstorm a lot,” Gordon said. “Brainstorm from a big picture all the way down to the small components they need to use. Then they need to test and do a lot of iterations on it.”

Designing included a cardboard mockup, then laser-cut foam and 3D printing, and finally acrylic and more 3D printing, Gordon said. Students built robots that collected data remotely via sensors. Teams then used that data to collect orbs of varying values while minimizing energy, cost and time.

Boone said the biggest challenge was the gearbox, which his team had to build several times. The team also learned complicated bots are not always better.

“Simple is the way to go,” Boone said. “I have some friends who have some complicated bots and put in way more time than we did. Our bot worked and it worked well.”

Teammate Syedah Khawar, a chemical engineering freshman, said she learned how to collaborate with her team members.

“I also learned to share crazy ideas,” Khawar said. “We all contributed equally, so I feel that the one thing I learned is that you should share every idea that you have because you never know how beneficial it’s going to be to your group.”

 

Students showcase films on the (inflatable) silver screen 

Audience members attending the annual California Baptist University Student Film Festival on April 22 bundled up against the cool evening as they gathered to watch the films.

Last year, the film festival was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This year, 20 films were screened on an inflatable movie screen on the Mission Hall Lawn.

“It was great to have the festival again this year,” said Michael Eaton, professor of film studies. “For any filmmaker including student filmmakers, screening your work for audiences is crucial to creative and professional development.”

The genres included thriller, Western, horror, comedy and music videos. The film “Surprise,” directed and written by Austen Heldoorn, won five awards, including Best Film. Heldoorn was also a producer, editor and actor in the dark comedy.

“I learned that rushing the process never promises the outcome you desire—it is OK to breathe and say, ‘Let’s try it a different way,’” said Heldoorn, a film senior. “This experience has been extraordinarily enlightening. I could not have done it without the cast and crew that weathered long nights and technical mishaps with me.”

Torrin Diaz, a film senior, said it was a great experience seeing his film on the big screen and watching films with an audience after a year of being away from movie theaters. He was director and editor on his film, “Sonoran,” which earned Best Editing and tied for Best Production Design.

“While shooting this project I learned a great deal about collaboration and communicating ideas with others,” Diaz said. “Maintaining a cohesive vision while expressing key aspects of performances with actors and technical decisions with crew can be overwhelming, but I had great support from them, and we all learned more about effective teamwork.”

Derrick Meese, a film senior, was writer, director and actor for “The Wind Howls.” He said he often mentally pictured shooting scenes a certain way, but on location the reality would be different for various reasons. When that happened, his crew and actors would have suggestions.

“I cannot emphasize how great it was to work with such a wonderful team. I recommend all aspiring artists of any medium surround themselves with the most talented and passionate people they can find. If they do so they cannot help but be inspired,” Meese said.

Ellie Dickerson, a film junior, was director, producer and editor for “Sabotage.” She learned about the film production process and that she enjoys directing. She also was the cinematographer on “Surprise.”

“To anyone who wants to pursue filmmaking, go for it at full speed and endurance,” Dickerson said. “If it’s something that sets your soul on fire in the way that it does mine, you will see the rewards of following your heart and fulfilling God’s purpose for your life.”

Student Film Festival Awards
Best Film
First Place: “Surprise,” directed by Austen Heldoorn
Runner Up: “Spaghetti Rider,” directed by Josiah Murphy

Best Actor
Austen Heldoorn, “Surprise”

Best Actress
Taylor Thomas, “Sabotage”

Best Supporting Actor
Ryan Lee, “Spaghetti Rider”

Best Music/Soundtrack
Dayton Goegebuer, “The Wind Howls”

Best Cinematography
Ellie Dickerson, “Surprise”

Best Screenplay
Tie:
Josiah Murphy, “Spaghetti Rider”
Austen Heldoorn, “Surprise”

Best Special/Visual Effects
Benjamin Morey, “Paperclip”

Best Editing
Torrin Diaz, “Sonoran”

Best Production Design
Tie:
“The Wind Howls,” Derrick Meese, Luke Brungardt, Mark Hamiter and Christian Spangler
“Sonoran,” Torrin Diaz
“Spaghetti Rider,” Josiah Murphy
“Surprise,” Tracey Grisham

 

CBU names Tyler Mariucci as new director of Athletics

California Baptist University has named Tyler Mariucci as the director of Athletics as announced by CBU President Dr. Ronald L. Ellis on April 23.

“Tyler will bring exceptional leadership and experience in athletics administration to Lancer Nation,” Ellis said. “His background at several reputable programs with strong outcomes in generating external support and a commitment to the student-athlete experience both in the field of competition and in the classroom will allow us to build on our commitment to excellence in athletics and academics.”

Mariucci has worked in leadership roles at NCAA Division I institutions spanning the Big Ten, West Coast Conference and Mountain West Conference during great transformation and change, including multiple conference realignments and significant increases in revenue generation.

“I’m very excited and honored to become the next director of Athletics at CBU during this transformational time in the university’s history,” Mariucci said.

The Lancers are in year three of competing at the NCAA Division I level primarily as a member of the Western Athletic Conference. As of late March, the Lancers were leading the 2020-21 WAC Commissioner’s Cup standings and their six league titles ranked tops in the country tied with the Texas Longhorns.

Read the full story here.

 

CBU earns multiple awards in Baptist media competition

California Baptist University won numerous communication awards at the 57th annual Wilmer C. Fields Awards competition. The awards were presented during the annual Baptist Communicators Association workshop, held virtually April 20-21.

The Lancer Media Group and the Marketing and Communication division won a combined 23 awards in the student and professional competitions, including two of the eight grand prizes awarded.

Pursuit magazine won the grand prize for Best Overall Student Entry in addition to first place for the Overall Publication: Magazine and Magazine Cover, among other awards.

The other CBU student publications—The Banner newspaper and the Angelos yearbook—also won several awards, including placing first in their respective categories for Overall Publication. Additionally, The Banner placed first for its website in Interactive Communications, and Angelos placed first for Yearbook Cover Design.

“We are very proud of the Lancer Media Group team. The dedication and tenacity the students showed this year is very noteworthy,” said Dr. Mary Ann Pearson, interim director of the journalism and new media and public relations programs. “The Baptist Communicators Association recognizing the hard work and creativity is like icing on the cake.”

The Marketing and Communication division at CBU won four awards in the professional competition, including the grand prize of M.E. Dodd Memorial Award for Significant Achievement in Radio, Television, Film and Video for CBU’s 2020 Virtual Commencement. CBU’s State of the University address and the President’s Report also earned awards.

The Wilmer C. Fields Awards competition receives hundreds of entries from Baptist ministries, agencies, colleges and newspapers across the country.

To see a full list of the awards, please visit the BCA website here.

 

Family Updates

Dr. Jacqueline Gustafson, dean of the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences co-presented at the Society for Research in Child Development on April 7. The virtual poster session was titled An Examination of Current Practices in Short-term International Service Trips with Vulnerable Children and Youth.

 

 

 

 

Four CBU photography students are among 27 students selected nationally for the American Photography 37 competition. Their photos are eligible to appear online in The ARCHIVE—the exclusive online juried collection by American Illustration and American Photography. The students are Jailyn Patrick, McKenna Watson, Marina Griffin and Sage Zbinden, who was also selected to be included in the print edition.

 

 

 

Dr. Lisa Hernández, dean of the College of Arts & Sciences, was elected to a four-year term as a board member of the Association of Christians in the Mathematical Sciences (ACMS). The ACMS is a network of Christian mathematicians and mathematical scientists dedicated to integrating mathematics with faith and to promote quality teaching.

 

 

 

Dr. Ken Nehrbass, instructional designer I in Academic Affairs, published a textbook titled Advanced Missiology: How to study missions in credible and useful ways (Cascade, April 2021). He also published an article in Christian Education Journal titled Jesus’ Use of Experiential Learning in the Sending of the Seventy: Implications for Ministry Practicums (Vol. 18, Issue 1).

 

 

 

Dr. Erin Smith, associate professor of psychology, was the lead author on a paper published in Mental Health, Religion & Culture (April 14). The title is Relationships between psychometrically distinct Brief Multidimensional Measure of Religiousness/Spirituality (BMMRS) factors and mental health among U.S. college students.

 

 

 

Dr. Mark Kling, associate professor of criminal justice, and Dr. Linda-Marie Sundstrom, associate professor of public administration, both for Online and Professional Studies, presented two research papers at the Western Social Science Association Conference on April 13-16. The titles were Political Responses for Calls to Defund the Police and Defund the Police or Invest in Human Capital? A New Framework for Community Safety.

 

 

Dr. Dennis K. Bideshi, professor of biology, has been elected to serve as an academic editor of the journal TOXINS; on the editorial boards of Madridge Journal of Clinical Research and Journal of Biotechnology and Biomedicine; and as a review editor for the Microbiotechnology section of the journal Frontiers in Microbiology.

 

 

 

Dr. Gretchen Bartels-Ray, associate professor of English for Online and Professional Studies, had a poem published in Sojourners (May 2021). The title of the poem is Anthropause.

 

 

 

 

Ashley Sonke, nursing student services coordinator II, published an article in the American Association of Colleges of Nursing’s Diversity Digest (Spring 2021). The title of the article is Applying Technology to Holistic Admissions Interviews.

 

 

 

 

Five aviation flight/management students recently completed their oral and practical test earning their FAA dispatch rating. The students are James Sutter, Christopher Yanney, Joshua Shandley, Julian Wright and Katrina Salib. Dr. Elisabeth Murillo, assistant professor of aviation science, leads the dispatch program, which has had a 100% pass rate over the past several years.

 

 

 

 

 

Dr. Jeff Biddle, director of the Counseling Center, conducted an asynchronous seminar for the Academic Advising department of Riverside Community College, Norco, on April 9. Part One was titled See Something, Say Something, Do Something, which provided training on recognizing and responding to students in distress. Part Two was titled Mental Health and Decision Making, which provided an approach to helping students make critical college-related decisions while experiencing mental health difficulties.

 

 

Alpha Tau Sigma, CBU’s chapter of Sigma Tau Delta, International English Honor Society, held a virtual induction ceremony for 11 students on April 7. In addition to the formal bestowing of pins and certificates, new members read poetry—their own and famous published pieces. Membership requires students maintain a high GPA in literature classes and the recommendation of university faculty.

 

 

The Modern Languages and Literature department hosted the English and Creative Writing Senior Awards Night and the Dazed Starling journal release party on April 21. The AJ Staples Award for an outstanding English major was given to Eunice Hahn. The Starling Award for an outstanding creative writing major was awarded to Jacob Haffner. The winners of the Dazed Starling creative writing contest also were announced. Mariah Mooring received first place for fiction for her short story Disjointed. Amberly Garcia earned first place for nonfiction for To the Girl Who Sees Dragons in the Clouds. An honorable mention was awarded to Amberly Garcia for her poem Surrendered Remnants, and the first place for poetry was awarded to Harmony Taetz for Seasons in Colour.

 

Dr. Owen Staley, lecturer of English, made a presentation at the 66^th meeting of the Renaissance Society of America on April 14. The title was Lucian/Lucien: Multi-Lingual Self-Fashioning in Renaissance France.

 

 

 

 

CBU Photography hosted senior portfolio reviews via Zoom with top professionals on April 29. The review allowed the seniors to present their yearlong projects and interact with industry leaders.

 

Jeff Keneaster, director of academic operations for Online and Professional Studies, and his wife, Carrie, welcomed a son on March 24. Joshua Graham Keneaster weighed 7 pounds, 3 ounces and measured 20 inches. He joins brother Sam, 3½.

 

 

 

 

Personnel Updates