In this issue…

• Current News
• Family Updates
• Personnel Updates

Current News

Spring Career Expo brings job opportunities for CBU students

Before attending the Spring Career Expo at California Baptist University on Feb. 19, Nathaniel Gibson, a political science senior, did his homework. He found out what businesses would be present and then he researched their current job openings.

He also had his resume, which was previously vetted by the Career Center, in hand. Gibson said having a career fair on campus is beneficial when it comes to finding a job.

“It gives students the chance to network face to face instead of trying to find something in the midst of [classes],” Gibson said. “It’s helpful to have that brought to you, to have that opportunity.”

The Career Expo, coordinated by the CBU Career Center, featured nearly 100 commercial businesses, nonprofits and government agencies that were offering internship and job opportunities.

The event is helpful for both students and the businesses, said Lisa Singer, associate director of employer relations in the Career Center.

“Even if a student is not currently looking for a position, this is still a perfect opportunity to network, gain experience talking with employers and gain information regarding opportunities,” Singer said. “Additionally, the companies attend because they have positions to fill and they appreciate partnering with CBU and want to build relationships with candidates early in their college career.”

Lijin Nanu, a mechanical engineering graduate student, said he has learned how to present himself better after attending a past expo hosted at CBU.

“I came to one previously, but I was unprepared,” said Nanu, who was looking for a summer internship. “This semester I’m prepared. I went to the Career Center to get my resume done.”

Brenda Seewald, a supervising air quality inspector with the South Coast Air Quality Management District, said a CBU student interned with the district last year.

“I’m excited when they have me come out here because I know the quality of the [students],” said Seewald, who is a CBU alumna. “I have employees who report under me and I would love to have a CBU student.”

 

Lancer Day aims to solidify college choice for high schoolers

Sydney Halvorson, of Wildomar, California, took part in Lancer Day at California Baptist University on Feb. 18. Halverson attended chapel, met her peers and learned about programs and the CBU culture. By the end of the day, she was set on becoming a Lancer.

“I love the atmosphere. Everyone actually seems to care about the students, which makes me want to come here,” Halvorson said. “I know I won’t just be a number in the classroom. I’ll have a name.”

When the day reached the “Choose CBU Party” event, she wrote her name on the large CBU letters, indicating she will attend CBU for the fall 2020 semester.

Lancer Day is one of several events that CBU holds throughout the year to connect prospective and accepted students to campus. About 250 prospective Lancers, many accompanied by their parents, participated in the latest event. Visitors had the opportunity to attend chapel, hear from program directors and various campus offices and sign up for an orientation session.

“The purpose of Lancer Day is to help accepted students see if CBU is the right fit for them. Everyone is unique and has specific questions, so at Lancer Day we want to provide an opportunity for students to get those questions answered,” said Bryce Burditt, associate director of undergraduate admissions, visit and events. “The Choose CBU party is a celebration for us to cheer on students who have decided to commit to CBU.”

Ignacio Dominguez, of Redwood City, California, also made his commitment to attend CBU at Lancer Day. He appreciated that everybody was well prepared to answer his questions.

“I’ve always looked for a close-knit community like CBU. It wasn’t so big, but it wasn’t so small. I thought that was the best part about it,” Dominguez said. “I think the events that they hold [for prospective students] gives you that push and that reassurance that you know you’re going somewhere good.”

To learn more about Lancer Day click here.

 

“Babette’s Feast” brings grace to the stage at CBU

The theatre program at California Baptist University is bringing “Babette’s Feast” with its serving of grace to the stage at Wallace Theatre. The play opened Feb. 14.

The story follows two sisters who preside over a dwindling and bickering congregation in a village in 19^th century Norway. Babette, a mysterious refugee from France, appears at their door and offers to work for the sisters. After years of service, Babette proposes to make a delicious feast for the village. However the meal proves to be more than just a feast; it is a magical outpouring of redemptive grace.

“Where Babette goes, she’s able to bring hope and renewal,” said Frank Mihelich, associate professor theatre and the play’s director.

Mihelich said the play is similar to other faith-based plays with ties to C.S. Lewis, Corrie ten Boom and Dietrich Bonhoeffer that CBU has performed.

“’Babette’s Feast’ is just as powerful,” Mihelich said. “I want to start a deep, robust conversation around grace. What I love about the play is, it reminds me of [authors] C.S. Lewis or Flannery O’Conner, where they’re able to get you thinking about biblical themes, but God isn’t really mentioned.”

Additionally, Mihelich has a personal tie to the play. Years ago when he lived in New York City, he was part of a team that developed the play.

“For me, it’s a real privilege to bring it to the CBU community,” Mihelich said.

Most of the cast of 11 actors play several different characters and provide narration.

Joy Bennett, a theatre sophomore, plays Babette. The play has taught her about abundant grace.

“Growing up in the church, the word ‘grace’ is tossed around a lot,” Bennett said. “I forget how undeserving of grace you have to be in order to receive it. ‘Babette’s Feast’ is convicting me of that truth and encouraging me at the same time.”

Josiah Murphy, a film sophomore, said the story also is about not being afraid of change.

“‘Babette’s Feast’ has several instances of love lost because it might take you to a place unfamiliar and scary,” Murphy said. “I’ve learned from the text, and my own life, to take risks and go places that take me out of my comfort zone because if I have God on my side, what’s there to be afraid? Try new things, seek out challenging and growing experiences. It will make you a stronger person.”

“Babette’s Feast”
When: Feb. 21-22 at 7:30 p.m.; Feb. 22 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

 

Packed CBU audience ‘wooed’ at talent show

Residence Life at California Baptist University hosted the 11th annual Woo Fest to a packed house at the Fox Performing Arts Center in downtown Riverside on Feb. 7.

Woo Fest has grown since debuting in 2009, when 230 students watched the inaugural event. At this year’s event, more than 1,600 spectators watched acts perform songs, skits, comedic routines and read poetry.

“Woo Fest started as a tradition years ago where the men at CBU ‘wooed’ the women. It was a living area event and just grew in popularity, and now it is a CBU tradition that we want to keep letting students experience,” said McKenna Liardon, assistant director of Residence Life.

Elsie Parea, a sociology sophomore, said she laughed a lot at the event.

“It was really entertaining watching the guys ‘woo’ the girls with their performances. My favorite part was when a group of guys danced for the crowd and then threw out roses,” Parea said.

Isabella Ayllon, a music education freshman, enjoyed how each performer was interactive in the crowd.

“I really like how the performers interacted with the crowd and invited us to be a part of their performances,” Ayllon said.

Gina Mann, a criminal justice and psychology senior, said this will be her last time attending the event.

“I have gone every year and I am happy to experience one last Woo Fest event,” said Mann. “It’s exciting to be able create memories while hanging out.”

 

Family Updates

The College of Arts and Sciences, Division of Natural and Mathematical Sciences hosted Dr. Russell Howell, professor of mathematics at Westmont College, for its distinguished lecture series on Feb. 5-6. He presented three talks: Mathematical Beauty and the Lewis-Anscombe Debate, Ram and Recursion, and Is Faith Required for Mathematics? Is Mathematics Required for Faith?

 

 

 

Dr. Candace Vickers, associate professor of communication disorders, was invited to present at the Illinois Speech Language Hearing Association in Rosemont, Illinois, on Feb. 7. The presentation was titled Maximizing service for outpatients with aphasia.

 

 

 

 

Adrienne Herrenbruck, adjunct professor of kinesiology for Online and Professional Studies, had a literature review published. Role of skeletal muscle autophagy in high-fat-diet-induced obesity and exercise was published in Nutrition Reviews (January 2020).

 

 

Dr. Dennis K. Bideshi, professor of biology, co-authored two papers. Chitinases of Bacillus thuringiensis: Phylogeny, Modular Structure, and Applied Potentials was published in Frontiers in Microbiology (January 2020). Class 1 defensins from broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica) seeds and their antimicrobial activity was published in World Journal of Microbiology and Biotechnology (February 2020).

 

 

 

Dr. Laura Veltman, professor of American literature, was re-elected to a two-year term as treasurer of the scholarly organization Conference on Christianity and Literature.

 

 

 

 

California Baptist University made the Military Friendly list for 2020-2021. The listing, which measures an organization’s commitment, effort and success in creating sustainable and meaningful opportunity for the military community, is published by VIQTORY, a military marketing company.

 

 

Damon Horton, assistant professor of intercultural studies, made two presentations: Defining Moments and Decision Making, from Esther 4 at Moody Church in Chicago on Feb. 5 and Real Relationships from John 15:1-11 at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in Wake Forest, N.C., on Feb. 8.

 

 

 

Michael Kinnen, adjunct professor of finance, co-authored a paper in Journal of Accounting & Finance (Volume 19, issue 9).  The title was Applying stock market image theory in China: Antecedents, dimensions, and consequences in the Middle Kingdom.

 

 

Dr. Soung Hwa Walker, adjunct professor of psychology, and Dr. Deron Walker, professor of English, co-authored a paper published in Journal of Studies in Education (February 2020). The title was The ABCs of Math Attitudes: Reliability and Validity of The Three-Factor Model.

 

 

 

 

Russell Meek, adjunct professor of Christian studies for Online and Professional Studies, co-authored a book. It was titled A Book-by-Book Guide to Biblical Hebrew Vocabulary (December 2019).

 

 

 

Dr. Natalie Winter, professor of marketing and management, taught at an all-church retreat for Redeemer’s Grace Church, San Diego. The retreat took place at Pine Valley Bible Conference Center. The theme of the retreat was The Grace of Life.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Kristin Mauldin, assistant professor of psychology, wrote an article for the Association for Applied Sport Psychology’s newsletter. It was titled Serving the Community through Exercise Psychology Programs (Jan. 15).

 

 

 

 

CBU theatre students participated at the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival in Fullerton on Feb. 11-15. Amber Young, Lindsay Murray and Megan Espiritu participated in the Stage Management Fellowship program, and Espiritu was selected as a finalist. Daniel Beimford and Nicole Marks were chosen as nominees for the Irene Ryan scholarship from the production of “Godspell.” They had to put together an audition of three minutes consisting of a scene and monologue. Out of 344 nominees, Beimford and Marks made it to the final round of 16 finalists.

 

 

 

 

Upcoming Chapel Services, 9 and 10:45 a.m.:
Feb. 25: Greg Laurie, senior pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Riverside
March 3: Dr. R. Albert Mohler, president of The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky

 

 

Personnel Updates

In this issue…

• Current News
• Family Updates
• Personnel Updates

Current News

CBU Online now offers tuition assistance for military personnel

The Division of Online and Professional Studies (CBU Online) at California Baptist University is now offering tuition assistance for active duty, reserve and National Guard military personnel.

CBU recently signed an agreement with the U.S. Department of Defense to offer the Standardized Tuition Assistance (TA) program. The program provides financial assistance for voluntary off-duty education programs. Participation in this program opens up a significant new market for CBU’s online degree, and course offerings.

“I’m proud of our student veteran and military friendly efforts at CBU and I am thrilled that we can now open up TA benefits to serve a whole new population of those serving our country,” said Jay Villasenor, director of Veterans Resource Center at CBU.

“Online courses offer servicemen and women flexibility and convenience to complete their college education, regardless of where they may be stationed, live, or in some cases even if they are currently deployed overseas,” Villasenor continued. “The ability to offer TA is a testament to the university’s strong commitment to our nation’s veterans and active military personnel.”

Pamela Daly, vice president for CBU Online, said the addition of the Standardized Tuition Assistance program for military personnel will benefit troops looking to choose an affordable, accessible and reputable online degree program.

“As a G.I. Bill, tuition assistance and Yellow Ribbon Program university, our goal at CBU is to significantly reduce the tuition rate and open the door to our accelerated, fully online degree programs for the entire U.S. military population. With the addition of the new tuition assistance program, I am happy to say that goal is being met,” Daly said. “Additionally, CBU is a repeat highly ranked recipient of the U.S. News and World Report annual ranking for the ‘Best Online Programs for Veterans.’ Service members can rest assure that they will earn a quality degree at CBU.”

CBU Online currently serves approximately 4,700 students. CBU Online offers over 40 fully online bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degree programs.

For more information about CBU Online, visit cbuonline.edu/students/militarystudents or contact admissions at 877-236-1617.

 

School of Business event highlights how Christian higher education professionals integrate faith into their careers

The Dr. Robert K. Jabs School of Business at California Baptist University hosted its first Faith and Enterprise event of the spring semester on Feb. 4. The event, titled “The Business of Higher Education,” featured Christian professionals who work in higher education.

The panelists included Chris Hofschroer, assistant dean of students at CBU; Angela Park North, director of organizational strategy and vice president of administration and finance at California State University, Fullerton; and Dr. LaSharnda Beckwith, chief academic officer at California Southern University (Irvine, California).

Hofschroer talked about the importance of mentorship.

“My mentor asked, ‘Why not higher education? In those four years, students make the most crucial decisions. You could have such a substantial impact in two, three or four years of people’s lives,’” Hofschroer said.

Beckwith said her faith compels her to show love with actions within her work environment.

“We may not be able at Cal Southern to talk to you about Jesus, but I represent Jesus in how I approach your situations. I care about the people, I care about students and I care to see you succeed. So, that’s what I want students to understand about my job,” Beckwith said.

North stressed the importance of seeking feedback in life.

“If you’re involved in clubs, teams or any type of position, even if you don’t have the title, ask another peer or a mentor, ‘Hey, how was that?’ With their feedback, it may not initially feel good, but you’re going to get better because of it,” North said. “You’re going to grow in your leadership and I guarantee your decisions will be more effective and create positive change.”

Hailee Vitello-Olivas, an accounting junior, said she enjoyed learning how she could integrate her faith in her career.

“I learned a lot from the lectures. Now I have an idea on how to transfer my faith in my future career and not be afraid to portray who I am in the workforce,” Vitello-Olivas said.

Naylea Munguia, a business finance senior, said she enjoyed how the lecture spoke about lifelong learning.

“I really enjoyed how as people we need to keep learning and that you can learn something from everyone that you come into contact with,” said Munguia “I got a lot of value seeing real life professionals from different universities share their perspective.”

 

Ministry and Job Fair offers students options for summer

Summer is months away. However, students at California Baptist University are already planning for their summer break as they sought employment opportunities at the Summer Ministry and Job Fair on Feb. 5.

More than 30 camps, conference centers and ministry groups participated in the event, which offered students internships and summer ministry jobs. The Career Center at CBU hosted the event.

“Camps and businesses need candidates who are well rounded and have a desire to grow and lead,” said Lisa Singer, associate director of employer relations in the Career Center. “For students, this is a perfect opportunity to work on soft skills such as collaboration, communication and leadership. Summer jobs are definitely resume builders and allow students to gain great experience.”

Sasha Thompson, lead program at Palomar Christian Conference Center, said CBU students have the opportunity to work as counselors, staff, in the kitchen or maintenance at the camp.

“The students get to do life with the kids, and we can teach and grow them to become leaders,” Thompson said. “This event helps us because we’re always looking for new staff. I get to be the face for Palomar and get to see the students and know them a little bit.”

Chloe Jones, a worship arts and ministry freshman, appreciated having the event on campus.

“I never would have known about any of these places,” Jones said. “I’ve worked with kids a lot over the years and I’ve really enjoyed it [and now] I could still do this and get paid for it.”

Mark Wise, a nursing sophomore, stopped at several booths. He said the opportunities were intriguing.

“I learned about different opportunities I had no idea about. I didn’t even know there were this many camps,” Wise said. “I like being outdoors and active. I don’t like sitting still and having a job that’s indoors.”

 

CBU Adams Street entrance receives beautification award

The new entrance for California Baptist University located at Adams Street and Lancer Lane received the Mayor’s Award during the City of Riverside Mayor’s State of the City address on Jan. 30. The award is part of the Keep Riverside Clean and Beautiful (KRCB) program.

Mayor Rusty Bailey and Donna Little, chair of KRCB, presented the awards. Mark Howe, CBU vice president for finance and administration, accepted the award on behalf of the university.

KRCB is a community program sponsored by the City of Riverside and the Greater Riverside Chambers of Commerce. Its mission is to foster a sense of community pride by creating partnerships that work toward the beautification of the city.

The summer of 2019 marked the opening of the new main entrance to CBU at Adams Street and Lancer Lane. Features include a new monument arch, signature campus fencing, expanded roadway and hardscape with outdoor seating areas. These elements combine to welcome visitors and guide them past award-winning facilities including the Recreation Center, Events Center and the Dennis and Carol Troesh Engineering Building into the academic core of the CBU campus.

The East Parking Structure also opened in the summer in Lancer Plaza at the corner of Adams Street and Diana Avenue. The massive five-level structure features more than 1,450 car stalls for the CBU community, two elevator towers and more than 50 security cameras.

 

College of Behavioral and Social Sciences is honored

The College of Behavioral and Social Sciences at California Baptist University was honored with a prestigious award from the Big Brothers Big Sisters organization. The Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County and the Inland Empire honored the college as its 2019 Partner of the Year on Jan. 28.

In the past five years, the college has collaborated with the organization in a variety of ways.  For instance, CBU students have served as mentors in the program; CBU Master of Social Work students serve as interns for Big Brothers Big Sisters; and faculty members at CBU have provided staff training on various issues. Additionally, the Center for the Study of Human Behavior at CBU is helping the organization identify positive outcomes from its mentoring program. The partnership has also provided children and their families in the program opportunities to visit CBU for a campus tour.

“The College of Behavioral and Social Sciences has come around us to support our mission,” said Jennifer O’Farrell, executive director of Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Inland Empire. “The faculty and students are fantastic.”

Dr. Jacqueline Gustafson, dean of the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences, has been on the nonprofit’s regional board for five years.

“Our partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters and CBU demonstrates a commitment to working across sectors for the common good,” Gustafson said. “Together, we can be the difference, one culture, one community and one person at a time.”

Michael Houlihan, a social work graduate student who interns with Big Brothers Big Sisters, said his experience has been beneficial to his professional development. Houlihan said he has learned skills such as interpersonal communication, documentation and case management.

Dr. Nathan Iverson, assistant professor of psychology, has been a big brother for three years.

“It has been a tremendously rewarding experience to get to know a young man in our neighborhood. His life has been far from easy, and it has been an honor to be a friend with him through this season,” Iverson said. “I know no other organization that such a small commitment can have such a large impact.”

 

CBU students celebrate the Lunar New Year

California Baptist students were immersed in Asian culture as they celebrated the Lunar New Year on Jan. 28.

Students watched various Chinese festive activities, tasted culture foods and drinks and learned to write their name in Chinese characters.

The Lunar New Year began Jan. 25 and celebrations continue through Feb. 8.

Monica Velasco, an environmental science senior, said she enjoyed watching the student performances and trying new foods.

“We have a lot of Chinese students who are part of the CBU International Center and this is one day that we can celebrate them and their culture,” Velasco said.

Lindsay Hanlin, an early childhood studies senior, said she enjoyed being with friends and joining others in the CBU community for the event.

“Every culture should be represented and feel at home here at CBU and I am grateful that we are able to acknowledge Asian culture for this holiday,” Hanlin said.

 

Lecturer encourages CBU students to live as leaders

“Actions speak louder than words and people are going to follow what you do,” Jim Shields told a California Baptist University audience on Jan. 27. Shields spoke as part of the College of Health Science Distinguished Lecture Series.

Shields is a certified wilderness emergency medical technician and has written books on surviving in the wilderness. He also has been featured on the History channel show “Alone,” as one of 10 survivalists to compete in Patagonia, South America.

Shields said his love of the outdoors has blessed him with many opportunities.

“Everything you ever wanted is just outside of your comfort zone,” Shields said. “Leadership is not something that is bigger than us, it is something that is within us and every day we have a chance to make a difference.”

Shields challenged students to use their passion to make differences in people’s lives. He said that a good metaphor for life is a pizza.

“Every slice is 10 years of your life. Don’t waste your pizza slices. It is not about being the best in the world, but the best for the world,” Shields said.

 

Family Updates

Two graduate students in the Department of Kinesiology have received full financial scholarships to begin their Ph.D. degrees in the fall of 2020: Brian Shariffi will pursue exercise physiology at the University of Missouri, and Katherine Dillon will pursue kinesiology at Texas Tech University.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Dennis K. Bideshi, professor of biology, co-authored a paper that was published in the journal Folia Microbiologica (January 2020). The title was New bacteriocin-like substances produced by Streptomyces species with activity against pathogens.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Tim Sisemore, professor of psychology, and Dr. Robert Pate, associate professor of psychology, gave a presentation at the National Council of Schools & Programs of Professional Psychology midwinter conference in San Diego on Jan. 22. It was titled Amplifying Diversity Through Inclusion of Religious and Spiritual Competencies in Graduate Psychology Training Curriculum.

 

 

 

Dr. Bruce Prins, professor of biology, received a Lifetime Commitment to Mission and Learning Award at the Christian Pre-Professional Advisor’s Workshop at Loma Linda University on Jan. 23. Dr. Bonjun Koo, professor of environmental science, and Dr. Nathanael Heyman, associate professor of biology, also attended the event.

 

 

 

 

 

Dr. Daniel Prather, professor of aviation science, taught two courses at the Helicopter Association International Heli Expo Convention in Anaheim on Jan. 26-27. They were titled Effective Leadership in Business Aviation and Safety Management Systems for Business Aviation.

 

 

 

 

Frank Mihelich, associate professor of theatre, was invited to be a member of Artists in Christian Testimony International. The organization seeks to mobilize and equip artistic and innovative ministries and missionaries for Christian work around the world.

 

 

 

The Online and Professional Studies’ programs in Master of Public Health and Bachelor of Science in Public Health received full accreditation from the Council on Education for Public Health on Dec. 16. The accreditation approval extends through Dec. 31, 2024.

 

 

Dr. Denise L. McLurkin, associate professor of education, delivered the keynote address at the Riverside Unified School District’s Equity Symposium on Jan. 25. The title of her presentation was Everyday Acts That Can Make Significant Differences in the Lives of Our Students.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dr. Fred Pontius, professor of civil engineering and construction management, served as guest editor for a special issue of the journal Water on Emerging Contaminants in Water: Detection, Treatment and Regulation (January 2020).

 

 

 

 

Andrew Cress, director of special projects in the Office of Educational Effectiveness, published a review of Jesus the Priest in the Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society (December 2019).

 

 

 

The Career Center hosted an Employer Partner Appreciation Luncheon on Jan. 23. The luncheon was held to update the employers on Career Center growth, upcoming events and new opportunities for employer involvement with CBU students. CBU alumni and a current student also shared success stories of working with their employers and the Career Center.

 

 

Dr. Ronald L. Ellis, CBU president, attended the opening of the exhibit about architect Henry L. A. Jekel at the Riverside Art Museum on Feb. 1. The James Complex at CBU was designed by Jekel. CBU had previously provided financial support for a book about him, Henry L.A. Jekel: Architect of Eastern Skyscrapers and the California Style, 1889-1950, by Dr. Vince Moses and Cate Whitmore.

 

 

 

 

Kayla Baker, adjunct professor of English, had a book published. Agency in The Hunger Games (January 2020) is a scholarly analysis of Suzanne Collins’ popular trilogy.

 

 

 

Upcoming Chapel Services, 9 and 10:45 a.m.:
Feb 11: Brian Zunigha, CBU director of discipleship
Feb 18: Dr. Lee Strobel, author and president of the Center for Evangelism & Applied Apologetics at Colorado Christian University

 

Kathy Jenkins, student accounts advisor, and her husband, Bob, welcomed their first grandchild on Jan. 22. Madeline Jo Zajac weighed 8 pounds, 6 ounces and measured 20.75 inches. Her parents are Kevin and Katy Zajac (nee Robinson ‘12)

 

 

 

 

Margaret Marquez, account clerk II for Facilities and Planning Services, and her husband, Howard Sawyer, welcomed a son on Jan. 18. Landen Atticus Sawyer weighed 7 pounds, 3 ounces and measured 20.5 inches. He joins sister Madison, 18.

 

 

 

 

Personnel Updates

In this issue…

• Current News
• Family Updates
• Personnel Updates

Current News

Dr. Ellis honored for 25 years of transformational leadership

More than 200 people attended an event celebrating the 25th anniversary of Dr. Ronald L. Ellis as president of California Baptist University on Jan. 16. Ellis officially marked his 25th year as CBU president on Nov. 1, 2019.

Since Ellis became president of then-California Baptist College, enrollment has grown from 808 to 11,045, an increase of 10,237 students. Under his leadership, CBC became California Baptist University in 1998 and now features 11 colleges and professional schools, offering more than 150 majors and minors with more than 30 master’s and five doctoral programs.

Lancer Athletics has grown from five teams competing in the NAIA to 18 teams competing in the NCAA Division I.

CBU’s main campus now comprises more than 160 acres and 30 buildings. The latest architectural additions to campus are the Athletics Performance Center, the East Parking Structure and the new main entrance to the campus from Adams Street.

Dr. Bob R. Agee, president emeritus at Oklahoma Baptist University, served as the keynote speaker for the event, which was held in the CBU Events Center.

Agee said that God raised up a special leader in Ellis for a fresh dream for higher education.

“CBU is committed to being academically strong, unapologetically Christian, and unashamedly Baptist with a global heartbeat that is impacting the world for Christ and His kingdom,” Agee said.

Riverside Mayor Rusty Bailey said CBU has transformed dramatically under Ellis’ leadership.

“Ron Ellis is the model of what stability and continuity and visionary leadership can do for an organization,” Bailey said. “He is locally minded but globally focused. I have observed Dr. Ellis in action. He is a leader of godly character with integrity, vision, courage and passion.”

Ellis, during brief remarks, credited God’s blessings for the success and growth at CBU. He reminded the audience that CBU is a “University Committed to the Great Commission.”

“No one person can do anything close to what’s been done here. You’ve got to have a team,” Ellis said. “Not only people who have the ability. But they have to have that passion that ‘I’m going to help the organization accomplish its mission. I’m going to live my purpose by helping the students and others in this organization live their purpose.’”

“There’s really no external limitations on what we [at CBU] can accomplish for the Lord,” Ellis said. “The only limitations that I think we have are our own internal things. I think the Lord will continue to bless this organization as we continue to walk on faith, getting out of that boat and walking on water. Thank you so much for making the last 25 years a ‘wow!’”

 

Alumni art exhibit displays fond memories of CBU

California Baptist University hosted an opening reception for an exhibition of fine art alumni on Jan. 16. The art exhibit “Where We Went from Here” features artwork from seven CBU fine art graduates at the Rose Garden Chapel Art Gallery.

Kristine Lippire, associate professor of visual art, said the exhibit showcases some of the best artwork produced by these alumni during their time at CBU and since they graduated.

“I have not gotten to see what these graduates have been doing in the art world. This exhibit allows them to be connected to the CBU family and feel supported so they can keep coming back to campus,” Lippire said. “I want current students to see former students making art and excel in the real world and to change the mindset of those who believe artists do not make money.”

The exhibition features 88 pieces including paintings, digital media, abstract pieces and illustrated children’s books. Alumni work featured at the exhibit is by Tawni Franzen, Mayuli Lemus, Jessica Robyn, Gloriana Sandoval, Lauren Sankey, Brooke Villegas and Hannah Yokoo.

Villegas (’17), who is now working as a freelance artist and art instructor in Riverside, said she was thrilled to participate in the exhibit.

“Through branching out, working with different art mediums and networking with artists, I was able to gain my own style through my years at CBU,” Villegas said.

Villegas said her favorite piece she created for the exhibit is titled “‘Witness,” an abstract watercolor painting.

“So many times, there is an opportunity to share my faith and this piece is a reminder to keep talking about faith with the use of art,” Villegas said.

The exhibit is open Monday – Friday from noon – 8 p.m. until Feb. 29.

 

CBU group participates in inspiring and educational trip to Israel

For Janelle Smith, a student at California Baptist University, going to Israel was on her a bucket list. She longed to see historical biblical sites that could help her grow in her understanding of the Bible and ultimately her faith. The sophomore, who is a double major in Christian studies and Christian behavioral science, was able to scratch this off her bucket list as she took a trip with a group from CBU over the Christmas break.

“One of my favorite things was visiting a Jewish home for Shabbat dinner. They were the kindest people and as a group, we discussed theology, politics and Jewish culture. It was so eye-opening,” Smith said.

Smith’s journey to Israel was coordinated by Passages, an organization aimed at providing Christian college students an opportunity to encounter the roots of Biblical faith and to see life in modern-day Israel. The CBU group, consisting of 20 students and three faculty members, visited Israel from Dec. 29–Jan. 8 to examine biblical sites and to become more aware of the geopolitical factors of the area.

“I will never read the Bible the same way again,” said Dr. Nicole MacDonald, professor of kinesiology. “We all have pictures in our minds about the events in the Bible, but now having seen the places and gaining perspective of the time period, reading about these places will take on new meaning.”

The team visited biblical sites such as Nazareth, Bethlehem and the Mount of Olives. They toured the Garden of Gethsemane and partook communion at the Garden Tomb. The group also visited Tel-Aviv, the Western Wall and Yad Vashem, a Holocaust museum. Additionally, they heard from an array of speakers, including Jewish, Christian and Muslim leaders in addition to college-age Israelis, who were serving in the Israel Defense Forces.

Emily Key, a creative writing senior, said she was naive about the conflict in Israel prior to the trip.

“Through the speakers and the political sites we visited, I glimpsed the reality of the pain in the land of Israel,” Key said. “One thing that I will never forget was when one of our speakers was talking about the people on the other side of the conflict. He said, ‘Our hands feel the same.’ They are all people and they are each loved by God.”

 

CBU Online places high in U.S. News & World Report rankings

CBU Online, the Division of Online and Professional Studies at California Baptist University, placed high in multiple categories in the latest national rankings released by U.S. News & World Report (USN&WR).

CBU Online earned the No. 52 spot among online bachelor’s programs in the 2020 “Top Online Education Program”—the highest placement among California colleges ranked for best online bachelor’s programs.

CBU Online also ranked high in the USN&WR rankings for “Best Online Master’s in Education Program for Veterans” and “Best Online Bachelor’s Program for Veterans” as these programs earned a No. 23 and No. 34 ranking respectively.

Pamela Daly, vice president for Online and Professional Studies, said the rankings confirm CBU’s commitment to military populations seeking educational training.

“The rankings achieved in the veterans categories are a testament to CBU’s commitment to serving veterans and their families by providing accessible online programs and a supportive community dedicated to assisting students on their academic journey,” Daly said.

CBU Online faculty members also earned high marks in the USN&WR rankings.  The Division of Online and Professional Studies faculty members received a No. 1 ranking for faculty credentials and training for online bachelor’s programs in addition to its Master in Business program and the several degree options within graduate education degree offerings.

Dr. Dirk Davis, associate vice president for academics at CBU Online, said the rakings confirm CBU’s commitment to providing quality instruction.

“The latest rankings support our mission to honor the Great Commission, serve others and respond to the student advancing their education who requires flexible, accessible, quality, purpose and market driven programs,” Davis said.

CBU Online currently serves approximately 5,000 students online through 23 undergraduate majors and concentrations, 16 graduate majors and specializations, and two doctoral programs in business administration and public administration.

For more information on the USN&WR rankings, please visit https://www.usnews.com/education/online-education/california-baptist-university-110361.

 

Reflect God in your life, Harvest pastor tells students

“Know that your purpose is to point everything in your life back to God,” Brad Ormonde Jr., told a chapel audience at California Baptist University on Jan. 14.

Ormonde is an associate pastor at Harvest Christian Fellowship in Riverside.

“God has created everything with a purpose,” Ormonde said “If you want to know your purpose for your life, start with God. You can’t find it on social media, you can’t find it in relationships, you can’t find it even within yourself. We won’t be distracted by comparison if we are captivated with purpose. What keeps us from understanding our purpose at times is being distracted by what everyone else is doing.”

God created people in His likeness so the world would be filled with the image of God, Ormonde said, referencing Genesis 1:27.

“If my purpose is to reflect God and to be an image, a reflection of God on this earth, how do I do that?”

Ormonde said. “To live in harmony with God we must align the ambitions of our lives with the things of God.”

Ormonde acknowledged that sometimes things in life do not go according to our plans.

“Sometimes our plans have to fail in order for God’s purposes to prevail,” Ormonde said. “Jesus is concerned with your purpose, because He wants to use that as a catalyst to let others know how good He is.”

 

Spring Welcome starts the new 2020 semester at CBU

California Baptist University welcomed students back for the first day of the spring 2020 semester on Jan. 13. The return followed a Spring Welcome event that introduced new freshmen and transfer students to CBU over the weekend.

Alani Cabral, a nursing junior who transferred to CBU, said the Spring Welcome provided valuable information, including learning her way around campus.

“I’m looking forward to getting more involved in the student culture and getting out of my comfort zone,” Cabral said.

New students moved into residential facilities Friday, Jan. 10. On Saturday, they attended sessions that covered CBU’s vision, academics and how to become involved on campus. The day ended with a social outing to a local bowling alley.

First-Year Experience groups – FYE – also began Jan. 11 to help acclimate students to campus life. These groups provide support for students as they begin their first semester at CBU.

“Spring Welcome is dedicated to serving our new students by providing them opportunities to connect to the CBU campus and community,” said Daniel Garcia, assistant director of New Student Programs. “The Community Life office plans purposeful events and sessions to introduce new students to staff, faculty and information that will encourage and support a successful higher education career here at CBU.”

Katherine Garcia, a nursing junior who transferred to CBU, said she chose CBU because of the location and its nursing program.

“I’m excited to work on a degree that I am passionate about and can’t wait to pursue,” Garcia said.

 

Family Updates

Dr. Monica O’Rourke, professor of kinesiology, spoke at two panel discussions at the Athletic Business Convention’s National Redefined Faith and Fitness Conference in Orlando, Florida, Nov. 13. The sessions were titled Intergenerational and family fitness: Ideas to support and grow your market and Exceptional customer experience for clients and community.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Joshua Fuller, assistant professor of industrial-organizational psychology, and CBU student Kokoro Ito presented research at the Southern California Conferences for Undergraduate Research in San Marcos on Nov. 23. The title was Multicultural Transformational Leadership.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Robert Crosby, associate professor of psychology for Online and Professional Studies, published a lab manual to help online and hybrid students learn statistics using statistical package for the social sciences. It is titled IBM SPSS Statistics Lab Manual for the Behavioral Sciences (Kendall Hunt, 2020).

 

 

 

Dr. Gretchen Bartels, associate professor of English for Online and Professional Studies, presented a paper at the Pacific Ancient and Modern Language Association’s annual conference in San Diego on Nov. 15. It was titled Besides, I am particularly fond of muffins: Social (Dis)Connection and Tea Time in “The Importance of Being Earnest.”

 

 

 

 

Christy Mathews, director of admissions enrollment services for Online and Professional Studies, earned an Education Specialist degree in educational leadership with a concentration in higher education from Regent University in December.

 

 

 

 

Josh Daily, program coordinator for clubs and events in Community Life, presented at the annual Student Organization Summit at the University of California, Riverside on Dec. 5. His presentation was on CBU’s homegrown clubs portlet as an innovative and effective tool in the area of clubs and organizations.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Daniel Prather, professor of aviation science, completed two national research projects for the Transportation Research Board Airport Cooperative Research Program. They were titled Promoting Aviation Career Education in High Schools and Community Colleges and Current Landscape of Unmanned Aircraft Systems at Airports. He also presented a session, Drone (UAS) Technology for Industrial Applications in Africa, at the 1st Africa Renewable Energy and Smart Tech Conference held at CBU on Dec. 17-18.

 

 

 

Dr. Alex Chediak, professor of engineering and physics, published an article on Boundless, a Focus on the Family online ministry to young adults. It was titled The Friendship of Science and Faith.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Alexandra Shin, assistant professor of biology, co-authored two research articles. Interferon downstream signaling is activated early in pre-symptomatic Niemann-Pick disease type C was published in Neuroscience Letters (July 2019). Loss of amyloid precursor protein exacerbates early inflammation in Niemann-Pick disease type C was published in the Journal of Neuroinflammation (December 2019).

 

 

 

 

Dr. Robert LaChausse, professor of public health sciences, was appointed in December by the Highland City Council to the Community Trails Commission for a three-year term. The commission reviews and provides recommendations to the city council on development projects adjacent to or encompassing planned trails and bikeways.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Mary Ann Pearson, professor of communication, gave a webinar for California public information officials to help launch their annual mentoring program on Dec. 9. The title was The Benefits of a Mentor for your Career in Communication.

 

 

 

 

 

Dr. Fred Pontius, professor of civil engineering and construction management, co-authored a paper in the journal Chemosphere (volume 240). It was titled Two new predictors combined with quantum chemical parameters for the selection of oxidants and degradation of organic contaminants: A QSAR modeling study.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Deron Walker, professor of English, presented a paper at the 6th annual Language and Language Teaching Conference in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, on Nov. 29. It was titled Empowering Care’s Effectiveness in College English Writing Classes.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Kendra Flores-Carter, assistant professor of social work, had a textbook published. It is titled Medical Social Work Practice: A Christian Approach (Kendall Hunt, 2020).

 

 

 

 

 

Dr. Charles Sands, provost and vice president for academic affairs, made two presentations at the 18^th Annual International Conference on Education in Honolulu Jan. 4-8. The titles were Health Status of Taxi Drivers in Northeast China: A 10 Year Comparison and Relevant International Academic Experience for Undergraduate Health Science Students. Additionally, he served as chair for the Health Education session.

 

 

 

The College of Behavioral and Social Sciences celebrated the launch of the Doctor of Social Work program on Jan. 15. The event was attended with alumni, community members, and CBU faculty and staff. Information about the new program was provided and recognition was given to community partners who possess a Doctor of Social Work degree. The DSW program is accepting applications for the fall 2020 start date.

 

 

 

 

 

Upcoming Chapel Services, 9 and 10:45 a.m.:
Jan 28: Dr. Paul Chitwood, president of the International Mission Board
Feb 4: Dr. Alex Himaya, senior pastor of Battle Creek Church in Tulsa, Oklahoma

 

Carroll (C.J.) Wood, a CBU chemistry freshman and daughter of Brian Wood, adjunct professor of electrical and computer engineering, was selected as one of the 2019 Riverside County Office of Education Foundation Scholars. She received the STEM Scholar Program Scholarship.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dr. Daniel Blair, assistant professor of American Sign Language, performed a lead role in The Gift of the Magi at LifeHouse Theater in Redlands on Dec. 7-29. The play was written and directed by Sarah Pearce, director of simulation & standardized patient program.

 

 

 

 

Kaitlynn McLeod, event coordinator for university commencements, and her husband, Jake Gallaway, welcomed twins on Dec. 16. Kennedi James weighed 6 pounds, 13 ounces and measured 19.5 inches. Her brother Jace Ryan weighed 6 pounds and measured 19.5 inches.

 

 

 

 

 

Elizabeth Brandt Flater, collection development librarian, and her husband, Drew, welcomed a son on Sept. 15. Elliot Steven Flater weighed 8 pounds, 10 ounces and measured 20 inches. He joins sister Louise, 2.

 

 

 

 

 

Andrés Vera, assistant professor of Christian ministries, and his wife, Courtney, welcomed a daughter on Dec. 15. Liliana Joy Vera weighed 7 pounds, 4 ounces and measured 19.5 inches. She joins sister Elyce, 2.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Patrick Schacht, associate professor of biochemistry, and his wife, Karen, welcomed a son on Dec. 26. Levi James Schacht weighed 8 pounds and measured 21 inches. He joins siblings Rebecca, 6, Mary, 4, and Peter, 2.

 

 

 

 

 

Personnel Updates

 

In this issue…

• Current News
• Family Updates
• Personnel Updates

Current News

CBU fall commencements are first for Class of 2020

Dr. Ronald L. Ellis, president of California Baptist University, congratulated hundreds of fall graduates during two commencement ceremonies at the CBU Events Center on Dec. 11.

Eight hundred and nine students were eligible to participate in the ceremonies. Ellis, who recently marked a quarter century as president of the institution, noted that the two ceremonies increased CBU’s total graduate count to 30,728 since the founding of the school in 1950.

“More than 86 percent of all CBU graduates to date—26,540—have completed their degrees in the 25 years and counting that it has been my pleasure to serve as president of California Baptist University. To God be the glory, great things he is doing at CBU,” Ellis said.

Ellis said graduates honored in the dual fall ceremonies are the first in the CBU Class of 2020. The Class of 2019 made up the institution’s largest graduating class to date with 2,904 graduates.

Dr. Jairy C. Hunter Jr., president emeritus and professor of business at Charleston Southern University, was the commencement speaker. Hunter was elected as the second president of the Baptist College of Charleston in 1984. He served until 2018 and led the college’s development as Charleston Southern University. Today, CSU is the largest accredited independent university in South Carolina.

Hunter focused his message on living a fulfilling and purposeful life.

“Our purpose in life must begin with a personal relationship with God. Knowing that our thoughts, plans and actions are God-inspired makes life meaningful and will create an honorable legacy of joy and fulfillment,” Hunter said.

Hunter said that one’s purpose should motivate one’s passions.

“The only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven’t found it yet, keep looking. Don’t settle for anything less. As with matters of the heart, you’ll know it when you find it,” Hunter said.

Hunter said Colossians 3:23 gives insight on pursuing one’s passion. “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” (NASB)

“Finding our passion through work is ideal because we spend a huge amount of our life working,” Hunter said. “Let me encourage you to seek a career you are passionate about that challenges you to use your knowledge and skills.”

 

Distinguished students ring in commencement ceremonies

More than 800 students at California Baptist University were eligible to participate in two fall commencement ceremonies on Dec. 11. Two graduates from among the highest-ranking students opened up each ceremony with a CBU tradition—ringing the bell.

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

Lyndsey Morgan, who received a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, rang the bell at the morning ceremony, and Alanna Saldana, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, did the honors at the afternoon ceremony.

Morgan, whose current GPA is 3.99, was surprised and honored when she learned she had been chosen as a bell ringer. She said CBU has helped develop her skill set in many ways.

“CBU taught me how to balance [life] and not to procrastinate,” Morgan said. “[My college experience] taught me that if I just go ahead and do things ahead of time I’ll actually be less stressed and have more time to do other things.”

Saldana, whose current GPA is 3.93, wants to become a registered nurse. She said CBU is helping her get a step closer to achieving her dream.

“CBU shaped me in many ways but I believe that CBU has instilled in me to always trust that God is in control. There were many times where I doubted myself and my abilities to overcome obstacles, but it was in those times that God continued to show his love and mercy on me and in my life,” Saldana said. “CBU is a place filled with hope found only through God, and I’m very thankful for that reminder every time I step on campus,” she added.

 

Students’ achievements celebrated with hooding ceremonies

Hundreds of master’s degree candidates at California Baptist University celebrated achievements this week at hooding ceremonies leading up to commencement ceremonies on Dec. 11.

More than 230 master’s degree candidates were eligible to participate in the fall 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 largest group of master’s candidates came from the Bonnie G. Metcalf School of Education with 31 candidates. The Dr. Robert K. Jabs School of Business had the second largest group with 23 candidates. Additionally, the Online and Professional Studies had 125 candidates for graduation throughout its various programs.

Sol Kim, who received a Master of Science in Education degree, spoke at the School of Education’s hooding ceremony on Dec. 9 at Magnolia Church.

“Thank you, CBU staff and faculty for the great program to equip us to better serve students,” Kim said.

While attending CBU’s teaching credential and master’s program the past three years, Kim said he learned that God is in control. Kim encouraged his fellow graduates to take encouragement from that fact.

“There is a Korean phrase: If you can’t avoid it, enjoy it,” Kim said. “There is always something out of our control but that’s OK. God put you exactly where you’re supposed to be and doing exactly what you’re supposed to be doing. God was in control, is in control and will continue to be in control.”

 

CBU students enjoy a late-night breakfast during finals week

The aroma of French toast filled the Alumni Dining Commons as students lined up to receive their late-night breakfast served by California Baptist University staff and faculty members on Dec. 5.

The Alumni Dining Commons started to serve the meal at 8 p.m. for seniors and 9 p.m. for the remainder of the students. The commons also stayed open until 4 a.m. for students who wanted a place to study. The Late Night Breakfast event is a CBU tradition that allows staff and faculty members to serve, show support and encourage students during finals week.

Hundreds of students showed up for the event and dined on French toast, eggs, bacon, tater tots, cereal and doughnuts.

Ruby Barragan, a sociology senior, enjoyed the opportunity to get her mind off finals and eat a hearty meal with friends.

“I have been working all day so I knew I needed a break. I think it is a great way to end the year, making great memories with friends,” Barragan said.

Angela Stevenson, a sociology senior, said she was grateful for the event.

“I came out to see what it would be like and it is heartwarming to be served by the staff,” Stevenson said.

Anthony Lammons, dean of students, said he looks forward to serving at Late Night Breakfast every semester.

“It is a wonderful opportunity to be able to serve students. I have enjoyed participating for years and years. It is exciting to see those who are graduating and even meet students for the first time,” Lammons said.

 

CBU ushers in Christmas season with traditional campus event

More than 2,000 students, staff and faculty members along with their friends and families gathered for the traditional tree lighting ceremony at California Baptist University on the Front Lawn on Dec 3. Participants also assembled more than 600 gift shoeboxes for Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child.

The annual event was organized by Associated Students of CBU, and the university’s Community Life and Spiritual Life offices. It featured manmade snow, photo booths with Santa Claus, holiday treats, hot drinks and a reading of the Christmas story.

Attendees were given candles as they arrived to the playing of festive music . Next, CBU President Dr. Ronald L. Ellis read the Christmas story from the Gospel of Luke. Then attendees lit their candles and counted down to the lighting of the towering Christmas tree before singing “Silent Night.”

Shalia Eslick, a counseling psychology graduate student, helped to coordinate the Operation Christmas Child efforts.

“I enjoyed working behind the scenes and getting to know how many people it takes to do this,” Eslick said. “The boxes send a message to the receiver that they are loved by people who don’t even know them.”

Amy Gonzales, an early childhood studies major, said the event was an opportunity to spend time with friends while helping others.

“I really enjoyed being with my friends and enjoying the beginning of the Christmas season,” Gonzales said. “I think the event teaches us not to be selfish and give to others.”

 

Engineering students put their robots’ talent on display

Freshman engineering students at California Baptist University displayed their robotic constructions during the Robots Got Talent event on Dec 2. The event featured nine teams who competed in a semester-long process to construct robots designed to perform a unique set of functions.

The Gordon and Jill Bourns College of Engineering at CBU hosted the event in the multipurpose design hall of the Dennis and Carol Troesh Engineering Building.

“The competition is called Robots Got Talent because it allows students to have an open slate to create a robot that will impress the audience,” said Dr. Matthew Rickard, professor and chair of bioengineering at CBU. “The aim is for students to be able to work in a team, gain experience with design and be able to present what they created to an audience.”

Students enrolled in the Introduction to Engineering course (ERG 101) are given a design kit at the beginning of the semester to create customized robots. The kit consisted of remote controls, motors, sensors and LEGO pieces.

The audience voted on its favorite robot and the members of the winning team received 3D printed trophies. This year’s winner was The Itsy-Bitsy Spider robot that was designed to climb up a wall and then display a flag when it reached the top of its journey.

Members of the winning team included Max Duff, Logan Sorrell, Berabe Estrada, Blake Shah, Courtney Khong and Jennifer Nishimura.

Other teams in the competition presented robots that performed tasks such as lifting objects, drawing, and detecting hazardous odors.

“The competition also allows freshman students to understand the differences between the engineering disciplines including electrical, mechanical, and biomedical engineering, in order to help them choose an engineering major they enjoy,” Rickard said.

 

CBU volunteers set to serve in 26 countries on 39 teams in 2020

Excitement and anticipation filled Magnolia Church in Riverside as hundreds of California Baptist University students eagerly awaited the Team Reveal event held on the evening of Dec. 2. The event, hosted by the Office of Spiritual Life at CBU, reveals which International Service Project (ISP) teams and locations the students have been assigned.

Summer 2020 marks the 24th year of CBU’s global mobilization efforts. More than 300 students and staff and faculty members comprising 39 teams are scheduled to serve in 26 countries.

John King, director of mobilization, told the students the theme for 2020 ISP is “Discover ___” with the theme verse from Deuteronomy 4:29: “But from there you will seek the Lord your God, and you will find Him if you search for Him with all your heart and your soul” (NASB).

“Students receive an opportunity to see God ‘fill in the blank’ with a different description of their individual experience on ISP,” King said. “When we take students on ISP trips we don’t start something but join in on something that God is already doing.”’

Justin Ortal, a biomedical sciences junior, is serving on his first ISP trip.

“I am most excited about learning more about God’s creation and seeing how His glory is spread throughout all of the world, and especially the country I will be serving in,” Ortal said.

Rachel Solomon, a communications junior, said she looks to mature in her faith through her ISP service.

“I am excited for growth, to grow in my own confidence and also for spiritual growth through what I am doing at ISP,” Solomon said. “I also love serving and putting smiles on the faces of others.”

Kerri Horton, logistics coordinator for mobilization, said these experiences are meaningful for the students.

“There is nothing else that compares to this once in a lifetime opportunity. The team leaders do a good job raising others to be confident and to share the Gospel with others,” Horton said.

ISP students will serve on four types of teams, depending on previous ISP experience and their time commitment. Encounter teams are open to first-time participants who will serve two to three weeks. Engagement teams are deployed for three weeks. Immersion teams serve for eight weeks and are available to returning ISP students.

During the summer of 2019, CBU’s Mobilization efforts reached another historic milestone— 5,000-plus volunteers since the start of the flagship ISP program.

 

Chute named SoCal Baptist Ministries Endowed Professor

Dr. Anthony Chute, associate dean of the School of Christian Ministries, has been named the SoCal Baptist Ministries Endowed Professor at California Baptist University.

“I am both honored and humbled by this appointment,” said Chute, professor of church history. “I want to honor the appointment by being a faithful steward of my academic work such that my teaching, writing and service reflects historic Christian orthodoxy from a Southern Baptist perspective.”

The SoCal Baptist Ministries Endowed Professorship is funded by donations from SoCal Baptist Ministries and an anonymous donor in addition to institutional funds from the CBU endowment match program. This is the second $1 million endowed professorship established at the School of Christian Ministries, and it is the first to have a full-time faculty appointed to and supported by the endowment. The funds allowed the School of Christian Ministries to create a new endowed position and freed up institutional funds to hire an additional professor.

Dr. Chris Morgan, dean of the School of Christian Ministries, said qualifications for the professorship include having an established record of excellence in teaching, leadership and/or publishing. The professor’s role will include, but not be limited to, some combination of the following: teaching, writing, research, service, enhancing community among and investing in students and an active relationship with School of Christian Ministries leadership and faculty, Morgan added.

Chute has been a professor of church history and Baptist history at CBU for 17 years and served as associate dean for eight years.

Morgan said Chute has an established record of publishing, serves local churches and enhances community among students and alumni.

“He exudes love for the Lord, His church, students and CBU. He is a man of grace and truth,” Morgan said. “The School of Christian Ministries is blessed to have him and I am honored to serve alongside him.”

In teaching, Chute said his goal is that the students will love the Lord more as they learn about the importance of the Bible and the history of the church.

“Most students have never heard the story of the church so I try to help them to see God’s faithfulness throughout church history. I also try to show them how Christians have read the Bible long before our time so we can be faithful to the truths with which we have been entrusted and so we can avoid the errors others have made in the past,” Chute said. “In short, the Lord has been faithful to his church and we should be faithful to Him. “

 

CBU community supports dual causes at campus blood drive

Students, staff and faculty at California Baptist University donated blood on Nov. 18-19 for two causes important to the campus community—to support mobilization efforts and to supply local blood banks.

Mobilization, in the Office of Spiritual Life, hosted the drive that supplied blood for LifeStream and in the process raised funds for this year’s International Service Project (ISP) volunteers.

LifeStream will distribute the blood collected to local hospitals. Additionally, they will make a monetary donation on behalf of the blood donor to an ISP participant or the Mobilization scholarship fund.

Caitlyn Lloyd, a journalism and new media senior, said she believes it is important to donate blood as often as possible.

“My brother was shot in the [2017 Las] Vegas Shooting and I know that situations like that call for an excessive amount of donated blood, I think this is a good building process for those needs in those tragic situations,” Lloyd said.

Lana Sabbara, a nursing junior, said she gave blood to support her friend’s participation in Mobilization efforts.

“I have [type] O-negative blood, which makes me a universal donor. It is such an awesome feeling knowing that my blood can help anybody in need,” Sabbara said. “I am also glad the blood I am donating helps raise funds for my friend participating in ISP.”

AJ Juarez, an athletic trainer for the wrestling team and men’s and women’s golf teams, participated in the blood drive to support a student athlete who is participating in an ISP trip in the summer of 2020.  “I am in health care, so I understand the importance of blood donation just in case someone has an emergency and also because it is important for the general health and population for those who need it—overall it is for a good cause,” Juarez said.

Mobilization has provided opportunities for the CBU community to participate in blood drives for the past 10 years.

 

CBU’s campus publications earn top national awards

California Baptist University’s campus publications picked up 17 national awards handed out by two of the pre-eminent organizations in college media — the Associated Collegiate Press and the College Media Association — during the Fall National College Media Convention in Washington, D.C., in November.

At ACP’s annual Pacemaker Awards, known unofficially as the “Pulitzer Prizes of student journalism,” Lancer Media Group earned four awards, including a Finalist Award for the biggest honor of the night: Best Newspaper, an intensely competitive category featuring papers from across the country. It was The Banner newspaper’s first time reaching the Finalist stage.

In another first, 2019 CBU graduate Maria Gamez took home first place for Story of the Year – Feature Story, which told the story of a CBU student who battled cancer. Pursuit magazine had placed in previous years but had not yet taken home the top award.

In Story of the Year – Sports Game Story, senior Cullen Holt took home fifth place nationally for his coverage of women’s volleyball’s exciting victory over the University of California, Riverside. Christopher Johnston and Elisabeth Smith earned an honorable mention for graphic design featured in the Angelos yearbook and cartooning featured in The Banner, respectively.

In the competition’s Best of Show Awards, The Banner brought home the trophy for first place in the Non-Weekly Newspaper category; Angelos earned third place for Yearbooks; and Pursuit took ninth place in the Feature Magazine category.

At the College Media Association’s Pinnacle Awards, nearly a dozen students within Lancer Media Group took home 10 awards spanning graphic design, photography, illustration and more, with Angelos yearbook, The Banner and Pursuit all receiving top honors.

Pursuit took first place for Best Magazine Cover for its Fall 2018 Issue, and junior Phillip Ndowu took home two awards — first place for Best Photo Illustration and honorable mention for Best Portrait, both featured in the magazine.

“We are excited to receive these high honors in competitions among the top journalism programs throughout the United States,” said Dr. Michael Chute, professor of journalism and director of the Journalism & New Media and Public Relations program. “Our students work extremely hard to produce top-notch campus publications, and winning such prestigious awards at both ACP and CMA attests to the excellent work our students are doing for CBU’s campus publications.”

 

Family Updates

Dr. Jee Young Noh, assistant professor of education, published an article in the Journal of Child and Family Studies (Oct. 17, 2019). The title was Children’s Developing Understanding of Merit in a Distributive Justice Context.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Charles Sands, provost and vice president for academic affairs, presented at the annual meeting for chief academic officers of the Council for Independent Colleges in Baltimore on Nov. 2-5. The title was Fostering Resilience through Intergenerational Connections. The presentation related to grant funding provided by the AARP Foundation, which supported the establishment of programs that benefit both students and older adults in the communities. CBU’s participation in the grant project was focused on the Casa Blanca neighborhood in Riverside.

 

 

Dr. Raquel Ellis, assistant professor of social work, Dr. Viola Lindsey, associate professor of social work, and Dr. Krystal Hays, assistant professor of social work, presented at the North American Association of Christians in Social Work in Indianapolis on Nov. 8. The presentation was on lessons learned in the development and launch of a capstone course sequence.

 

 

 

 

The English department hosted Alan Brown of Dexterous Media Group for its fall lecture series on Nov. 6. Brown presented on SEO writing, creating marketing narratives and internship opportunities.

 

 

 

 

Graduate students from the Master of Arts in English program presented at the Pacific Ancient and Modern Language Association’s annual conference in San Diego on Nov. 14. Regina Mejia presented on The Comical Behavior of Pedro in “Like Water for Chocolate,” Rosita Khoury presented on Florentino the Fool in Gabriel Garcia Marquez’s “Love in the Time of Cholera,” and Cassie Allen presented on Love and the Power of Women in “Love in the Time of Cholera”: No Joking Matter.

 

 

 

Dr. Erika J. Travis, associate professor of English and behavioral sciences, presented a paper at the Pacific Ancient and Modern Language Association’s annual conference in San Diego on Nov. 15. It was titled Female Friendship and Identity Formation in Graphic Novels for Children.

 

 

 

Dr. Berniece Bruinius Alspach, associate professor of English, presented a paper at the Pacific Ancient and Modern Language Association’s annual conference in San Diego on Nov. 17. It was titled Using Digital Platforms and Tools in the English Classroom.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Ed Garrett, associate professor of kinesiology for Online and Professional Studies, spoke at the Coachella Valley Coaches Clinic in Thermal, California, on Nov. 16. He presented on the integration of sport psychology into the mental toughness and well-being of youth within sports.

 

 

 

Dr. Robert Shields, assistant professor of computer information technology for Online and Professional Studies, presented at the 2019 Quality Matters Connect 11th Annual Conference in Grapevine, Texas, on Oct. 28. His presentation was titled Road Trip! Helping Students Reach Their Learning Destinations via Effective Course Design.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Mary Ann Pearson, professor of communication, and Dr. Victoria Brodie, assistant professor of public relations, presented to Moreno Valley city leaders on Nov. 12, San Jacinto city leaders on Nov. 20 and Moreno Valley city employees on Nov. 26. The presentation’s title was Emotional Quotient, Adversity Quotient, Grit and Growth Mindset.

 

 

 

 

The CBU student chapter of National Student Speech Hearing Language Association held a guest speaker series event on Nov. 14. Cynthia Byward, a speech-language pathologist from Riverside University Health System, was the guest speaker.

 

Dr. Ogbochi McKinney, assistant professor of public health for Online and Professional Studies, presented a paper at the Ninth International Conference on Food Studies at the National Kaohsiung University of Hospitality and Tourism in Taiwan on Oct. 25. The paper, Anemia and Nutritional Status of Children and Women in Malawi, was co-written with Dr. Pamela Mukaire, adjunct professor of public health for Online and Professional Studies. Additionally, McKinney, Mukaire and Dr. Dede Teteh, adjunct professor of public health for Online and Professional Studies, presented a paper at the annual American Public Health Association Conference held in Philadelphia on Nov. 2-6. The title was Knowledge of HIV Prevention Methods not Translating to Practice among Reproductive Age Malawian Women.

 

 

Stefani Plummer, director of the Recreation Center, was the keynote speaker at the Magnolia Church Fall Women’s Brunch in Riverside on Nov 16. She spoke on gratitude.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Soojin Chung, assistant professor of intercultural studies, had an article published in Studies in World Christianity (December 2019). The title was Mother of Transracial Adoption: Pearl Buck’s Special Needs Adoption and American Self-criticism.

 

 

 

Sam Welbaum, assistant professor of Christian studies for Online and Professional Studies, presented a paper at the 13th annual Lighthearted Philosopher’s Society Conference in San Antonio, Texas, on Nov. 8-9. It was titled Redemptive Derision: Luther’s Pastoral Use of Insult in Light of the Command to Love the Neighbor. He also contributed a chapter, Understanding Worldview to Minister More Effectively, to the textbook Nursing as Ministry (Jones and Bartlett, October).

 

 

 

Dr. Joshua Rodriguez, assistant professor of music theory and composition, presented a paper at the Christian Fellowship of Art Music Composers Conference at Mississippi College and Belhaven University on Oct. 17-19. The title was What Can Evangelicalism Uniquely Contribute to Contemporary Art Music? Additionally, two of his compositions were performed, including Partita Picosa performed by Mary Vanhoozer, adjunct professor of piano.

 

 

 

Dr. Bonjun Koo, professor of environmental science, had a paper published in Applied and Environmental Soil Science (September 2019). The title was Distribution of Available Silicon of Volcanic Ash Soils in Jeju Island.

 

 

 

 

The College of Nursing has received full accreditation in the area of teaching/education through the Society for Simulation in Healthcare. The Society for Simulation in Healthcare is the largest international accrediting body for healthcare simulation. The college’s Interprofessional Education Learning Resource Center is one of a handful of programs accredited in California and the only one in the Inland Empire. The accreditation is for five years.

 

Dr. Shawn Wilhite, assistant professor of Christian studies for Online and Professional Studies, presented at the Evangelical Theological Society Annual Meeting in San Diego on Nov. 20-22. The title was Cyril’s Christological Scriptural Exegesis in Dialogues on the Trinity.

 

 

 

Dr. Jeff Cate, professor of New Testament, presented a paper at the German Bible Society at the Annual Meeting of the Society of Biblical Literature in San Diego on Nov. 24. It was titled The Use of the UBS Greek New Testament in Classrooms.

 

 

 

Dr. Ashley Parks, assistant professor of public health science, and Matthew Lazari, adjunct professor of public health science, presented a poster at the American Psychological Association’s Work, Stress and Health Conference in Philadelphia on Nov. 9. It was titled A Portrait of California’s Workforce: Mental Health Status, Family Relationships, and Hours Worked.

 

 

 

Dr. Lisa Hernandez, dean of the College of Arts & Sciences, presented at the Western Sectional Meeting of the American Mathematical Society in Riverside on Nov. 9. The title was Mosaic Numbers of Torus Knots.

 

 

 

 

Mary Vanhoozer, adjunct professor of piano, performed a solo recital and taught a master class as a visiting guest artist at Denison University in Ohio on Oct. 23. She also released a digital album of original songs and instrumentals, Bard and Ceilidh (Nov. 24).

 

 

 

Dr. Trevor Gillum, professor of kinesiology, had two papers published in Applied Physiology, Nutrition, and Metabolism. The titles were Reduced inflammatory and phagocytotic responses following normobaric hypoxia exercise, despite greater elevations in gastrointestinal barrier permeability (Nov. 21) and Prolonged treadmill running in normobaric hypoxia causes gastrointestinal barrier permeability and elevates circulating levels of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines (Sept. 10).

 

 

 

Dr. Joshua Knabb, associate professor of psychology, and Dr. Veola Vazquez, professor of psychology, published an article in Spirituality in Clinical Practice (Nov. 18, 2019). The title was Christian Meditation for Repetitive Negative Thinking: A Multisite Randomized Trial Examining the Effects of a 4-Week Preventative Program.

 

 

 

Dr. Rich Austin, adjunct professor of public administration for Online and Professional Studies, presented at the fall conference of the Georgia City-County Management Association on Nov. 14. It was titled Factors That Lead to Civil Unrest in the Wake of Officer-Involved Lethal Use of Force Incidents: Tale of Two Cities. Additionally, he had an article, Utilizing Social Media to Promote Legitimacy in Law Enforcement, published in Real Hero Report (July).

 

Dr. Linn Carothers, professor of mathematics, presented at the American Public Health Association 2019 Conference in Philadelphia on Nov. 5. The title was EpiCrim Analytics: Data Mining an 18 year Longitudinal Prospective Danish Hospital Cohort (N=9125) Reveals Highly Effective Clues to Adolescent and Young Adult Crime Prevention.

 

 

 

Dr. Melissa Wigginton, associate professor of health science, presented at the American Public Health Association’s annual conference in Philadelphia on Nov. 5. The title was Youth and Physical Activity: Examination of factors and outcomes associated with the achievement of the physical activity recommendations using the 2017 YRBSS.

 

 

 

 

Philip Breitenbucher, assistant professor of social work, presented at the National Association of Social Workers – California Chapter conference in San Mateo, California, on Nov. 2. The title was What You Need to Know About Treating Pregnant Women and Mothers with Opioid Use Disorders.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Robert LaChausse, professor of public health, has been appointed to a two-year term on the board of directors of the National Prevention Science Coalition. The coalition is dedicated to translating scientific knowledge into effective and sustainable practices, systems and policies to prevent social ills and promote well-being. LaChausse also will serve as the co-editor of the Bulletin, the official publication of the organization.

 

 

 

Dr. Natalie Winter, professor of marketing and management, presented to the MyStaffing Coach Leadership Development Bootcamp in Irvine on Oct. 25. It was titled Leadership Lessons. She also made a presentation, A Life of Gratitude, at Navigating Motherhood, a ministry of Compass Bible Church in Aliso Viejo, California, on Nov. 21-22.

 

 

 

Kinesiology graduate students Felipe Gorini, Michael Robinson, Rebekah Hunt, Brian Shariffi, Kathrine Dillon, Sam Lebowitz and Andrew Greenfield presented data at the Southwest Chapter of the American College of Sports Medicine’s annual meeting in Costa Mesa, California, on Oct. 25-26. Gorini’s presentation, High intensity intervals expands plasma and improves cycling performance in acute hypoxia, was a finalist for the Graduate Student Research Award.

 

 

Dr. Fred Pontius, professor of civil engineering, participated by video conference in a career day held by the Morrison Academy (High School), in Chiayi, Taiwan, on Oct. 25. He gave a presentation on the engineering profession.

 

 

 

 

Frank Mihelich, associate professor of theatre, was the keynote speaker at the Artists in Christian Testimony Conference in Nashville, Tennessee, on Nov. 7. The title was How Theatre Can Save America: A Vision for Christians in the America Theatre.

 

 

 

Dr. Soung Hwa Walker, adjunct professor of psychology, presented a paper at the at the Mid-South Educational Research Association annual meeting in New Orleans on Nov. 6-8. The paper was titled Formative Assessment: Instructional strategies to increase student motivation and achievement. Additionally, Walker and Dr. Robin Duncan, dean of the Dr. Bonnie G. Metcalf School of Education, presented a paper, Affective-Behavioral-Cognitive Attitudes Toward Mathematics.

 

 

 

Josh Moss, director of alumni and parent relations, organized a Nashville CBU Alumni and Friends event on Oct. 5. More than 50 alumni and friends attended. Dr. Monica O’Rourke, professor of kinesiology, hosted the event at her home, and Kim Cunningham, director of development, also joined the event.

 

 

Dr. Monica O’Rourke, professor of kinesiology, presented at the Global Congress for Sport and Christianity, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, on Oct. 23-27. The presentation was titled Culture and Context of Evangelism among Professional Motocross and Hydrocross Athletes. Additionally, two CBU master’s of kinesiology alumnae made presentations. Alissa Harris (’19) presented Take a Hike! A Guide to Senior High Outdoor and Recreational Education in Central Ohio. The paper was co-authored with O’Rourke, Lauri Hauck, visiting professor of kinesiology, and Dr. Greg Bowden, professor of organizational leadership for Online and Professional Studies. Molly Craycroft (’18) presented Embracing Avenues to Health: Body Image, Weight Loss Surgery and Christ.

 

Members of the CBU chapter of the Society of Women Engineers—Cassidy Aranda, Bethany Lopez, Bayley Jones, Kaylee Garcia, Carley Bouwman, Joyelle Lee, Briana Avendano, Mollyana Wood and Reuella Jacob—took part in an invention competition at the 2019 SWE National Conference in Anaheim on Nov. 6. They designed a bike that when pedaling, supplied energy to charge a cell phone and light Christmas lights on the bike. Dr. Amanie Abdelmessih, professor of mechanical engineering, students Alyssa Rice-Heckman and Jubilee Bosch also attended the conference.

 

Jane Craig, administrative assistant for the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences, and her husband, Rick, welcomed their second grandchild on Dec. 7. Brawn Daniel Sanders weighed 7 pounds and measured 20.5 inches. His parents are Christina (’06) and Daniel Sanders.

 

 

 

Personnel Updates

 

In this issue…

• Current News
• Family Updates
• Personnel Updates

Current News

“Servant of Two Masters” brings Italian comedy to CBU theatre

“The Servant of Two Masters,” a Commedia dell’Arte comedy, is coming to the Wallace Theatre at California Baptist University. The play opens Nov. 15.

The play, written by Carlo Goldoni, takes place in 17^th century Venice, Italy, and revolves around a servant who wishes to double his wages by serving two different masters. Through a series of mistaken identities, misunderstandings and amusing foibles, the play unfolds into hysterical chaos and the audience is taken on a journey with a sweet tale and unexpected twists and turns.

Commedia dell’Arte is a Renaissance-style Italian form of comedy, said Stephanie Parshall, adjunct professor of theatre and the show’s director. The comedy includes slapstick, tumbling and other antics.

“I hope the audience gets to enjoy a new style of comedy. A lot of our current sitcoms are based in this style of acting,” Parshall said. “I hope they get transported to Venice and get to see these fun, crazy characters and come away with smiles on their faces.”

Gavin Duran, a theatre and comedic arts sophomore who plays the servant, Truffaldino, said he learned a lot about portraying physical comedy rehearsing for his role.

“My character does so many physical, almost athletic things on stage, so I’d say the most challenging part for me has been delivering clear and understandable lines while performing these physical activities,” Duran said.

Sara Mitchell, a theatre senior, plays Smeraldina, a maidservant and love interest to Truffaldino.

“The most fun part was definitely developing the characteristics of Smeraldina. I loved the way she walked and her quirks and physical gestures that make her unique. I had such a wonderful time playing off my fellow actors,” Mitchell said.

Joy Bennett, a theatre sophomore, plays Beatrice, one the servant’s masters. She said just because the outrageous comedy is wacky does not mean it lacks technique.

“You really have to go out of your way to not have a good time,” Bennett said. “I hope the audience can shamelessly laugh, and see a little piece of themselves in the characters.”

“The Servant of Two Masters”
When: 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 15-16 and Nov. 21-23; 2 p.m. on Nov. 16 and 23
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

 

Veterans remembered, honored at CBU for Veterans Day

The Veterans Resource Center at California Baptist University spent the day honoring CBU veterans, leading up to an evening of reflection on Nov. 11.

During the morning and afternoon, the Veterans Resource Center offered free T-shirts and a meal ticket to veterans at the Alumni Dining Commons. In the evening, ROTC cadets at CBU led a march from the Veterans Resource Center to Stamps Courtyard where they hung the flags of the U.S. Armed Forces. Dr. Douglas Wallace, associate professor of sociology and U.S. Air Force veteran, shared a few remarks after the march.

“I have seen many times in my life growing up, boys and girls going to the military and they would come back as men and women who were respectful, disciplined and lived with honor and integrity,” Wallace said. “Those are things we do not see enough today, so I have always been amazed by that.”

Wallace encouraged the audience to learn from the sacrifices of the military, especially when it comes to protecting freedoms.

“For those who have fought or are currently fighting for our freedoms, it is also the time for each of us to take part in protecting it. We need to realize how special it is and do what we need to protect our freedoms by maintaining what we have here in America,” Wallace said. “We need to put our freedoms into action by voting, being involved in civic organizations, and teaching young ones what it means to be an American.”

Macy Lange, a marketing senior and spouse of a veteran, attended the evening event.

“I think that having the perspective of a military spouse, Veterans Day not only means honoring and respecting the sacrifices our military and veterans have made for our country but also helping them ease back into civilian life as well,” Lange said. “I know a lot of veterans including my husband who has had trouble easing back into civilian life and I think if we as a country let them know we are beside them, supporting their transition, it means the world to them.”

Entrepreneurs share their innovative spirit with CBU students

A crowd of California Baptist University students filled Innovators Auditorium to hear from a panel of entrepreneurs at a Faith and Enterprise event on Nov. 11. The event hosted by the Robert K. Jabs School of Business featured several business owners who shared their start-up experiences.

Nolan Gouveia, a lecturer at the School of Business, served as the moderator for the event, leading discussions and fielding questions from the audience.

Panelists included Geoff Gouveia, a soccer artist who has worked with adidas, Starbucks and Facebook; Mathew Irving, CEO of SystemGo IT, a web design company; Alexis Andra, owner of The Shift Creative, an art installation and product styling company; and Charles Lee, CEO of Ideation, a marketing company.

Lee said he actively seeks ways to integrate his faith and love for God into his craft.

“Faith is just part of who I am and so if you’re going to work with me and our business, that kind of comes with it. I think faith and the teachings of Jesus definitely shaped how we treat our employees, how we treat our independent contractors, our vendors, how we treat our clients,” Lee said.

Irving said as an entrepreneur, he has taken calculated risks.

“Entrepreneurs aren’t all about taking risks. I’m not trying to jump out of a plane without a parachute. I’m trying to do everything I can to make sure I succeed. And then take that calculated risk,” Irving said. “The other side to that is a nine-to-five with a very steady trajectory until you retire or die. That to me is risky, because of the great recession where people lost jobs and homes, so there’s nothing guaranteed in life. I like the idea of saying, ‘I’m going to bet on myself.’”

Geoff Gouveia explained the importance of persistence.

“The way to make it as an artist or as someone who’s creative is to be there again tomorrow knowing that you might get beat up today,” Gouveia said. “I have to show up tomorrow knowing the client may not like my proposal; but I know that the magic is in showing up tomorrow.”

Alexis Flores, an international marketing sophomore, said she was excited about the topics addressed at the event.

“Even though as a business majors in a field that is very profit motivated, I learned that we can also worship the Lord and look to him to ensure we are headed in the right direction,” Flores said.

Audrey Alexander, a biomedical science sophomore, appreciated the variety of perspectives the speakers offered.

“The piece of advice that resonated with me was when Geoff Gouveia stated no matter how difficult something is, you need to show up tomorrow,” Alexander said. “As a biomedical science major, it feels really relevant because there is a lot of pressure and you feel like giving up. But you should just hang in there and see what God has in store.”

 

Thousands attend CBU Parent and Family Weekend

The third annual Parent and Family Weekend attracted thousands of visitors to California Baptist University on Nov. 8-9, uniting families together in the process.

On Nov. 8, parents had the opportunity to tour academic colleges and schools at CBU to meet deans and faculty members. During the evening, parents and students attended a pregame party and then watched the men’s basketball improve to 2-0 against California Lutheran University with a 112-56 blowout victory. A sellout crowd of record 5,050 attended the event.

The following day, the Parent and Family Weekend featured an opportunity to hike Mt. Rubidoux, watch various sporting events and a time for parents to pray for the CBU community.

In the afternoon, thousands of people attended the Block Party on the Front Lawn with games and activities for the whole family. Several unique selfie walls created by CBU students also were on display.

Gary Blom, father of Rachel Blom a business administration freshman, enjoyed spending time with his family in a positive atmosphere.

“I enjoyed the fact that my wife and I were able to see the campus, meet a lot of other parents,” Blom said. “I like the schedule as it was done in a ‘potluck style’ and an open schedule for you to pick and choose what you want to go to.”

Rachel Blom said she appreciated that her family came out to spend time with her on campus.

“I like the feeling of home that my parents bring to CBU when they’re here,” Blom said.

Hannah Curtis, biomedical sciences junior, said the event was an opportunity to showcase the CBU community to her family.

“CBU’s Parent Family Weekend was the perfect opportunity for my parents to come see what my college experience is truly like. They were able to meet my professors and friends as well as tour the labs that I have been working in,” Curtis said. “I am super grateful for the work that went into making this weekend so enjoyable for all of the relatives that came out, and I really appreciated the time I was able to spend with my parents on campus during the events.”

The annual Fortuna Bowl intramural flag football championship was held on Saturday night, and the event drew an estimated 7,800 spectators to both games. Prior to the game the department of aviation science participated in a flyby that helped set the atmosphere for one of the largest sporting events held at CBU each year. Team Bull Rushers beat Bombshells 6-0 in the women’s championship game, and team Twinkle Toes pulled out a 13-12 victory over Baptist Baddies in the men’s championship.

“It was a great season because we loved playing together and had a lot of fun on the field,” said Ashley McBay, who played on the winning women’s team. “We all grew so close to each other so fast and when you gel, the winning just kind of comes. We love doing this, we all worked hard and our focus is playing for the Lord in every game.”

The Parent and Family weekend wrapped up with a fireworks show after the final game.

 

Ellis reflects on his vision of a “university committed to the Great Commission”

Dr. Ronald L. Ellis, president of California Baptist University, told an audience that God has used all his life experiences to form his vision of a “university committed to the Great Commission.”

Ellis is celebrating his 25th anniversary as president of CBU this academic year. Ellis spoke as part of the School of Christian Ministries Lecture Series on Nov. 7.

“The vision that I had for this school did not come in a dream, it came through my whole life,” Ellis said. “At the age of 7, in vacation Bible school we had to put our favorite Bible verse on a poster board and I put Matthew 28:19-20 [the Great Commission] which has become my life verse from the very beginning.”

Ellis noted his career path and mentors also played a significant role in maturing his vision. Prior to starting his presidency at CBU, Ellis worked at several institutions of higher learning, learning multiple roles.

Ellis also shared how the extensive research he conducted prior to his interview at then-California Baptist College help him see the potential of higher education in the Inland Empire.

To be a leader, Ellis said, one must “see things out there, see a vision.”

“One of the big tasks of being a leader is to have a vision but to then to stay the course,” Ellis said.

Ellis also noted the importance of surrounding oneself with a good team.

“You are going to be successful in large part depending on the people you surround yourself with,” Ellis said. “One of the principles I have practiced since I’ve been here is every full-time employee that has been hired, I have interviewed and made the hiring decision.”

Since Ellis became president in November 1994 of CBC, enrollment has grown from 808 to 11,045, an increase of 10,237. Under the leadership of Ellis, CBC officially became California Baptist University in 1998 and now features 11 colleges and professional schools, offering more than 150 majors and minors with more than 30 master’s and five doctoral programs.

 

CBU hosts community event for National Chemistry Week

The Front Lawn at California Baptist University was full of excitement as hundreds of students bounced from one chemistry exhibit to the next on Oct. 26. Students from kindergarten through 12th grade participated in the free event hosted in honor of National Chemistry Week.

Students had the opportunity to interact with various exhibits, observe chemistry demonstrations and visit an organic chemistry lab. Several CBU student clubs involved in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) programs hosted the event along with the San Gorgonio Section of American Chemical Society.

Dr. Jenifer Nalbandian, assistant professor of chemistry at CBU, said the event showed how fun chemistry and science could be.

“We hope to inspire those that came out to pursue a career in STEM and grow a love for science,” Nalbandian said.

Nalbandian said the event also allowed CBU students to serve their community.

“This is a service opportunity, a way for them to use the gifts that God has given them in order to serve their community,” Nalbandian said.

Svetlana Nunez, a biochemistry and molecular biology junior at CBU, said she enjoyed the opportunity to teach chemistry to young children.

“By the children having this experience with science they are able to be introduced to chemistry and you don’t know where that may take them in the future,” Nunez said.

 

Midnight Madness ushers in basketball season

Vivian Woodson, a freshman nursing student at California Baptist University, rushed through the doors as they opened for the Midnight Madness event on Oct. 25. In true Lancer spirit, even losing one of her sandals did not deter her from finding a prime seating spot.

“I lost my sandal due to all the excitement, but it was so much fun,” Woodson said. “I really enjoyed the event and being able to meet new people.”

Midnight Madness drew thousands of Lancer fans who lined up outdoors in Lancer Plaza hours before the event to welcome in the new basketball season. Midnight Madness featured routines by the CBU dance and cheer teams, an introduction to both the men’s and women’s basketball teams, a 3-point shooting contest and a dunk competition.

For Isabella Diaz, this was her first Midnight Madness event. Diaz said she did a lot of “oohing and aahing” at the combinations of lighting, smoke and fire displayed at the event.

“I liked how the students came together to support the basketball teams and it was a good sight to see,” Diaz said.

The CBU women’s basketball team tipped off their season on Nov. 5 at home against California State University, Long Beach with a 79-70 victory. The men’s team followed the women’s opener with a 93-70 victory over Jackson State University.

View entire women’s basketball schedule here.

View entire men’s basketball schedule here.

 

Pastor challenges CBU students to examine their hearts

Dr. Mike Bullmore, senior pastor at Crossway Community Church in Wisconsin, challenged a California Baptist University audience to “know their hearts.”

Quoting from Proverbs 4:23, Bullmore said, “‘Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flows the springs of life’—and we could add one’s preaching.”

“The facts of these [heart] challenges and the persistence of these challenges are going to call for the gospel to do its work in our lives,” Bullmore said. “One of the most important things I’m trying to do here is to get these challenges named. What is needed is clarity to really know what is going on in our hearts.”

Bullmore, prior to becoming a pastor, served for 15 years as a professor of homiletics and pastoral theology at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. On Oct. 24, Bullmore spoke as part of the School of Christian Ministries’ Life Together Lecture Series.

The Life Together Lecture Series was endowed in 2017 by SoCal Baptist Ministries and CBU matching funds. The lecture series enables students, alumni, faculty members, pastors and guests to learn from leading evangelical scholars who use their academic expertise to serve the church.

In his lecture, Bullmore identified five areas in a pastor’s life that need to be guarded and how to remedy each one. Laziness needs to be replaced with a hard-working mind-set focused on eternal truths. Self-pity needs to be replaced with joy. The temptation to manipulate Scripture for self-serving ways needs to be replaced with integrity. Furthermore, pride needs to give way to praise and unbelief with faith.

“I appeal to you to be organized with your time, be disciplined, be tenacious, block out sermon preparation time and use it,” Bullmore said. “Protect your heart. You are not going to be perfect every time and God is very kind but don’t presume on God because He has asked you to devote yourself to study and preparation.”

Life Together upcoming speakers:
March 3, 2020
Dr. Al Mohler
President of the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary
February 25, 2020
Dr. Daniel Strange
College director and lecturer at Oak Hill College in London, England
March 11, 2020
Dr. David Platt
Pastor of McLean Bible Church in Washington, D.C.

 

Infants bring learning to life for CBU kinesiology class

As infants rolled over and responded to their cheeks being stroked, students from California Baptist University watched closely, observing each of their movements.

CBU students from the Lifelong Motor Development course (KIN 332) assessed babies, aged 1 year and under, for reflexes, spontaneous movements and other motor milestones on Oct. 21 during an infant lab.

At the lab, students tried to distinguish whether or not a behavior was a reflex or a developing skill, said Lauri Hauck, visiting professor in the department of kinesiology at CBU.

“One thing the students study is the physical development and neurological changes that take place in early childhood,” Hauck said “This lab allows the students to work on identifying the skills of reflexive behavior in an infant. It also challenges the students to demonstrate their understanding of rapid changes in early development.”

Throughout the course, students will also participate in labs tailored to different age groups, such as children ages 3-10 and adults 65 and older.

“In the classroom, students are introduced to many different aspects of motor development across the lifespan,” Hauck said. “Through lectures, readings and in group projects, students study and master the content. These labs allow the students to demonstrate their knowledge, work cooperatively in a group setting, while identifying behaviors or skills in a live situation.”

 

Marketing Club at CBU hosts SEO training

Matthew Ressler, a marketing senior at California Baptist University, spoke passionately about search engine optimization (SEO) to a group of his peers on Oct. 17. Ressler’s experience as an intern for DealerSauce Marketing, a company that does digital marketing for automotive dealerships, has motivated him to take his training from the corporate office to the classroom in an effort to help his marketing students.

Ressler is the president of the Marketing Club, a new club at CBU. With 118 members, it is the largest club within the Dr. Robert K. Jabs School of Business. Ressler said he enjoys the strong sense of community at CBU, which was another source of inspiration for forming the Marketing Club.

Ressler said he organized the club with the goal of helping students develop their marketing skills. The first event of the semester for the club was SEO Night.

“I enjoyed SEO Night because it introduced us to a relevant technical skill that is used in digital marketing today,” said Daniel Sweeney, a marketing senior. “It exposed us to what will soon be a required skill for marketers which allows us to better prepare ourselves for entering the workforce.”

Sweeney said he joined the Marketing Club for the various opportunities the club offers.

“I joined the Marketing Club to go beyond the textbooks and discuss the latest tactics and techniques in marketing today. I also felt it was a great opportunity to network with practicing professionals and like-minded students who are excited about where the field of marketing is headed,” Sweeney said.

Ressler said the Marketing Club will host another training workshop later in the semester and is in the process of creating an American Marketing Association chapter at CBU. Ressler also is seeking to form partnerships with local businesses in an effort to secure hands-on experience opportunities for club members.

 

Family Updates

Dr. Monica O’Rourke, professor of kinesiology, participated in two North American Coalition for Christian Admissions Professionals events. O’Rourke represented California Baptist University at college fairs in Nashville, Tennessee, on Oct. 1 and Louisville, Kentucky, on Oct. 7.

 

 

 

Mary Ann Stahovich, assistant professor of physician assistant studies, presented a poster at the Physician Assistant Education Association Forum in Washington, D.C., on Oct. 11. The poster was titled Diabetes Workshop: A Model for Collaboration and Teaching Across Disciplines.

 

 

 

 

Brandon Ignatowski, adjunct professor of health science, recently passed the National Commission for Health Education Credentialing’s examination for Certified Health Education Specialist. It will allow him to create and implement health programs within the community and organizations.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Tae Sung, associate professor of English, published a review of Joseph Urbas’ Emerson’s Metaphysics, in the latest volume of the scholarly journal Religion and Literature (Fall 2019). Additionally, he presented a paper at the International Herman Melville Society Conference in Paris on Oct. 17-19. It was titled The Unappropriated Gift: Melville and the Measureless Measure of the Impersonal.

 

 

 

Dr. Virginia Hart-Kepler, assistant professor of nursing, presented a poster at the Sigma Theta Tau International Nursing Society Southern California Annual Odyssey in Nursing Conference in Ontario, California, on Oct. 10. It was titled Assisting Mexican Immigrants to Make Diabetes Self-Care Decisions.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Soojin Chung, assistant professor of Christian studies, wrote an article titled The Christian History of Korean-American Adoption for Christianity Today (October 2019).

 

 

 

 

Dr. Dave Pearson, dean of the College of Health Science, co-authored a paper with Dr. Sean Sullivan, professor of kinesiology, and Marco Esparza, a kinesiology graduate student. Pearson represented the authors at the 2019 Western Society for Kinesiology and Wellness in Reno, Nevada, on Oct. 9 by presenting a poster titled Understanding Body Image and Motivation in Physical Education: A Mixed Methods Approach.

 

 

 

Philip Breitenbucher, assistant professor of social work, facilitated the Opioid Affected Youth Task Force in Clackamas County, Oregon, on Oct. 10. He serves as a “subject matter expert” for the national initiative on behalf of the U.S. Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Cammy Purper, associate professor of education, presented a workshop at the California Council for Exceptional Children Conference in Burlingame, California, on Oct. 12. It was titled High Quality Individualized Education Programs: New Online Resources.

 

 

 

Dr. Robert Pate, associate professor of psychology, presented a poster at the World Conference for the American Association of Christian Counselors in Nashville, Tennessee, on Oct. 10. It was titled What God Knew before Science: Research Support for a Biblical Model of Marriage.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Seunghyun Chun, associate professor of electrical and computer engineering, and Benjamin Vincent, electrical and computer engineering senior, presented a paper at the IEEE Global Humanitarian Technology Conference in Seattle, on Oct. 17-20. The title was Low-cost Remote Monitoring System for Small-Scale UPS Installations in Developing Countries. CBU graduates Seth Truitt and Timothy Gage were co-authors.

 

 

 

Dr. Natalie Winter, professor of business, spoke at Compass Bible Church in Aliso Viejo, California, on Oct. 15-16. The title was Persecution: Rightly Responding When We Are Opposed Because of Christ.

 

 

 

 

 

Dr. Amanie Abdelmessih, professor of mechanical engineering, served as a panelist at the 2019 International Technical Conference and Exhibition on Packaging and Integration of Electronic and Photonic Microsystems in Anaheim on Oct. 8. The title of the panel was Women in Engineering.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Andrew Herrity, professor of entrepreneurship and business, presented a paper at the annual Baylor University Symposium on Faith and Culture in Waco, Texas, on Oct. 17. The title was Retrospective Meaning-Making as Central to Gen Z College Student Character Formation: Results and Inferences of a 2019 Grounded Theory Study.

 

 

 

Dr. Keanon Alderson, professor of marketing and management, was the Master of Ceremonies for the 12th Annual Connecting Faith and Business Summit in Riverside on Oct. 10. Additionally, he made a presentation, The Challenges and Opportunities of Family-Owned Businesses.

 

 

 

The College of Behavioral and Social Sciences’ Center for the Study of Human Behavior hosted Dr. Peter Hill, professor of psychology at Biola University and an expert in research on the psychology of religion and spirituality, on Oct. 22. He presented Grace, Gratitude, and Humility: Religious Inflections in the Psychology of the Ordinary.

 

Dr. Kendra Flores-Carter, assistant professor of social work, spoke at Parkview Community Hospital in Riverside on Oct. 16. She spoke about the signs and symptoms of postpartum depression and postpartum psychosis after the screening of the When the Bough Breaks, a documentary that addresses the gaps in services for women experiencing perinatal mental health complications during and after pregnancy.

 

 

 

Ashley Parks, assistant professor of public health science, sponsored 20 graduate and undergraduate students to attend the Southern California Public Health Association Conference in Los Angeles on Oct. 14 with her husband, Matthew Lazari, adjunct professor of public health sciences. Parks, Lazari and four CBU alumni—Javier Munoz, Kirndeep Cheema, Nicole Brown and Fatima Abdellatif—made presentations. Additionally, Parks presented at the AUPHA Undergraduate Workshop Event in North Carolina on Oct. 12-13. The titles were Best Practices for Preparing Students for the Healthcare Workforce and Addressing Mentorship Needs and Preferences of Undergraduate Healthcare Administration Students.

 

Ben Sanders, professor of computing, software and data sciences, published a book. In My Heart, On My Mind: Forty Days of Biblical Prayer (Oct. 11) offers scripture meditations.

 

 

 

 

Amber Andrade, assistant registrar-transcripts and records, presented for a CollegeSource Transfer Week Webinar Series on Oct. 25. The title was Serving Transfer Students: Technology and Future Trends.

 

 

 

 

The College of Health Science hosted the American Heart Association’s Strokes for Strokes event on Oct. 26. Dr. Jan Edmisten, professor of kinesiology, and physical therapy assistant students provided a tai chi exercise class. About 25 communication sciences and disorders students and speech-language pathologist graduate students worked as communication partners for stroke survivors during an art therapy lesson led by Daphne Paromo, department secretary for kinesiology. Dr. Candace Vickers, associate professor of communication disorders, Margaret Appenzeller, visiting professor of communication sciences and disorders, and Tracy Taylor, adjunct professor of health science, guided students and interacted with survivors and families providing education on aphasia after stroke. Dr. Jane McGuire, professor of education, and graduate student Ashley Theiss led a family support group for spouses and caregivers of stroke survivors.

 

Michelle Tanner, adjunct professor of behavioral science for Online and Professional Studies, contributed to From the Inside Out: Therapists’ Confessions of Courage, Strength, and Hope (Sept 23, 2019).

 

 

 

 

Dr. Jeff Barnes, dean of student success, participated in the 13th Annual Orlando Film Festival on Oct. 17. He hosted a Q&A session following the world premiere of the historical documentary Walt Disney – Master of Dreamers: The Road to Epcot. The film features several Disney legends and historians, including Barnes. The film opened the festival and won best documentary.

 

 

 

Dr. Dirk Davis, associate vice president of academics, and Dr. Robert Shields, assistant professor of computer information technology, both for Online and Professional Studies, presented at the 2019 Quality Matters Connect 11th Annual Conference in Grapevine, Texas, on Oct. 27-30. Their presentation was titled HGTV (Home-Grown Training Venture): Measuring the Effectiveness of Do-It-Yourself QM Training.

 

 

Dr. Ronald L. Ellis, CBU president, presented the University report to messengers attending the 2019 California Southern Baptist Convention annual meeting in El Cajon, California, on Oct. 22.

 

 

 

 

Rick Muchow, director of worship practicum, and his wife, Laura, received the 2019 Award of Excellence during the 2019 California Southern Baptist Convention annual meeting in El Cajon, California, on Oct. 22.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Shelby and Ferne Collinsworth School of Music sent several ensembles to perform at the 2019 California Southern Baptist Convention annual meeting in El Cajon, California, on Oct. 22-23. The groups were University Choir and Orchestra, Vocalese Small Group, Sounds of Reunion Small Group. Hector Jimenez, assistant professor of music, also performed and Dr. Joseph Bolin, dean of the School of Music, attended the event.

 

 

Facilities & Planning Services, CBU’s Tree Campus USA committee, and BrightView (CBU’s landscape provider) hosted Fall Arbor Day at CBU on Nov. 2. About 250 people—students, staff, faculty and guests—participated. Projects included weed removal and planting, mulch refreshment, trash and leaf debris removal, and installing a pedestrian path between Lancer Arms and the Events Center roadway.

 

 

Kelsey Garcia, residence director of University Houses, and her husband, Miz, welcomed a son, Jacob Ezra Garcia, on Oct. 12.

 

Aaron and Megan Wagoner, residence director of Colony North, welcomed a daughter on Oct. 13. Sage Renee Wagoner weighed 6 pounds, 6 ounces and measured 19 inches in length.

 

Upcoming Chapel Services, 9 and 10:45 a.m.:

Nov 19: A.B. Vines, senior pastor of New Seasons Church in Spring Valley, California
Dec 3: Christmas Chapel with CBU students, faculty and staff

 

Personnel Updates

 

In this issue…

• Current News
• Family Updates
• Personnel Updates
• Upcoming chapel speakers

Current News

Anthony Evans shares chapel stage with CBU student

“I love to worship with people, not for them,” Anthony Evans said during a California Baptist University chapel on Oct. 15.

Evans is an accomplished Christian artist who has released seven albums and has toured throughout the world. During chapel, Evans performed a variety of worship songs including “Fighting for Us,” “Great Are You Lord,” “Hope Is Alive” and “The Lion and the Lamb.”

Evans also shared a unique experience with a CBU student on stage. Evans asked the audience if anyone could help him perform the song “Boasting” that was featured on Christian rapper, Lecrae’s “Rehab” album. Evans originally performed the chorus to the song. Porter Wesson accepted the challenge and proceeded to perform Lecrae’s role in the song to the applause and excitement of the audience.

Evans also paused in between songs to speak directly to the audience. Evans shared that he attended Liberty University, a Christian university in Virginia, but did not fully take advantage of the opportunity to grow in his faith during college.

Evans said that once he experienced trials in the “real world,” he realized he was taking his faith for granted.

“I had to ask myself, do I really believe what [I am] singing about?” Evans said. “Being a Christian is more than just remembering verses or adding Christian anecdotes to your songs. I had to ask myself if I believe this is real.”

Evans said he was now choosing to focus on God’s goodness despite the emotions he was experiencing from a new trial.

To worship and to have faith are choices we make, Evans explained.

“I am choosing to believe that [God] is fighting for me,” he said.

Wyatt announces retirement; national search begins

Dr. Mark A. Wyatt, vice president for marketing and communication at California Baptist University since August 1, 2002, has announced plans to retire effective January 31, 2020. Wyatt has led CBU’s marketing and communication division for nearly 18 years, overseeing the institution’s branding, public relations, advertising, media relations, university publications and internet marketing activities.

Along with his administrative duties at CBU, Wyatt also holds the faculty rank of assistant professor of communication arts. Wyatt’s professional experience in communications, pastoral ministry, journalism and media spans a half century and includes 14 years as a radio and television reporter, editor and news anchor in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina and Kentucky.

Upon his retirement, Wyatt will have completed more than 36 years of service among California Southern Baptists. Before joining the CBU executive leadership team, he served more than 18 years as chief communication officer for the California Southern Baptist Convention and editor of “The California Southern Baptist” newspaper.

Wyatt has been an officer or member of boards and commissions for numerous denominational and civic organizations. These include the Baptist World Alliance, Baptist Communicators Association, Association of State Baptist Papers, Council for Christian Colleges and Universities, International Association of Baptist Colleges and Universities, Riverside Arts Council, International Relations Council for the City of Riverside, and Greater Riverside Chambers of Commerce. He also is a 2004 graduate of the Riverside Chamber’s acclaimed ‘Leadership Riverside’ program.

He has preached or spoken at meetings and conferences in more than a dozen nations and traveled extensively, visiting more than 40 countries on six continents. Wyatt holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Valdosta State University in Georgia, and a Master of Divinity degree from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky. He received a Doctor of Ministry degree from Golden Gate Baptist Theological (now Gateway) Seminary, which honored him as Outstanding Alumnus of the Year in 2019.

Wyatt and his wife, Jean, are members of Saddleback Church Corona. They have been married more than 48 years and have three children and nine grandchildren.

A national search for a new vice president will begin immediately.

CBU students and faculty members shine at the Long Night of Arts and Innovation

California Baptist University faculty members and students displayed some of their innovations at the Riverside Long Night of Arts and Innovation event on Oct. 10.

The event stretched over several blocks in downtown Riverside with hundreds of people in attendance to learn about the latest developments in art, science and education in Riverside.

The Gordon and Jill Bourns College of Engineering had the largest presence for CBU that included several exhibits, including a high-speed camera, programmed mechanical hands, video game designs and an SAE vehicle. Civil engineering students featured 3D print designs that included models of the Fox Performing Arts Center, the World Peace Tower and Mount Rubidoux.

Alex Liu, a computer science senior, demonstrated an application he helped develop. The application was designed to help the Associated Students of CBU (ASCBU) track votes for their next election.

“It is a voting application to be used by ASCBU as a cheaper alternative. [It] uses the latest in modern application technology,” Liu said.

Victoria Lynch, a mechanical engineering junior, said she enjoyed discussing all the innovative ideas she is learning at CBU.

“Hopefully the event gets people in the community interested in engineering,” Lynch said. “[I hope it also] provides an opportunity for families to learn together.”

“Godspell” brings the parables of Jesus to life at Wallace Theatre

The theatre arts program at California Baptist University will present “Godspell” as its first production of the new academic year. The first performance is set for Oct. 11.

The musical, composed by Stephen Schwartz and originally written by John-Michael Tebelak, features a comedic troupe of eccentric players who team up with Jesus Christ to teach his lessons through parables, games and tomfoolery. “Godspell” also features the international hit, “Day by Day,” as well as an eclectic blend of song styles ranging from pop to vaudeville. The popular musical originally opened Off-Broadway in 1971 and has gone on to be produced worldwide.

“‘Godspell’ is about the parables recorded by Matthew about the prodigal son, the good Samaritan, the sower, the growing seeds—it’s the parables we all know and love,” said Lisa Lyons, the play’s director and an adjunct professor of theatre.

Lyons said students learned multiple dance routines and songs over a four-week rehearsal period. Students really put a lot of effort into this production, she added.

Ryan Lee, a communication studies junior, plays both John the Baptist and Judas.

“I learned [playing Judas] how to make a smoother transition, where people can see my character starting to change. From the show in general, I have learned how to be on top of things, engaging even when you’re not the focus of the scene,” Lee said.

“‘Godspell’ is a story both Christians and non-Christians can enjoy and people who don’t know much about the story of Christ can get an introduction to His story. This play is a really interesting take on the book of Matthew,” Lee said.

“Godspell”

When: October 17, 18 and 19 at 7:30 p.m.
October 19 at 2 p.m.
Where: Wallace Theatre, California Baptist University
8432 Magnolia Ave., Riverside, CA 92504

For more information and to purchase tickets, please call (951) 343-4319, visit calbaptist.edu/theatre or email mhyde@calbaptist.edu.

CBU Flight School hosts Girls in Aviation event

The Department of Aviation Science opened their facilities at the Riverside Municipal Airport on Oct. 5 in hopes of inspiring young women to pursue an aviation career. The Girls in Aviation event drew elementary age girls up to high schoolers to the airport to learn more about careers in aviation.

The attendees also had an opportunity to try out California Baptist University’s new flight simulator, tour the tarmac to see the Flight School’s fleet of piper airplanes and hear testimonies from female students and flight instructors at CBU.

Anika Borger, an aviation flight senior, shared her experience as a student at CBU. Borger said that she plans to become a missionary pilot after graduating.

“I think the most valuable thing for the girls attending the event is simply getting exposed to the world of aviation and all the potential opportunities they could have if they wanted to pursue careers flying planes,” Borger said.

Dr. John Marselus, chair of the aviation science department at CBU, said he hopes this event encouraged the participants to dream big.

“Every pilot can point to the moment in their life where they were inspired to become a pilot,” Marselus said. “We saw this in the eyes of many young ladies this past weekend and were glad to have the opportunity to do this for our community.”

Couch’s Corner offers newest dining options at CBU

California Baptist University opened its newest eatery, Couch’s Corner, to the excitement of the campus community on Oct. 8.

Located at Lancer Plaza near the Campus Store, Couch’s Corner is designed for the on-the-go lifestyle. Within the establishment is Delect-a-Bowls, which offers breakfast sandwiches and cereal bowls until 10:30 a.m. and then it switches to serving build-to-order poke bowls with fresh seafood, custom sauces and a variety of fresh topping options.

Couch’s Corner also features Shake Smart, a health-conscience option that allows individuals to create custom shakes from a variety of fresh ingredients. Additionally, Shake Smart offers cold brew coffee, acai bowls, sandwiches and oatmeal.

A line formed outside of Couch’s Corner early in the morning on its first day of operation as numerous students waited eagerly to try out the new dining options.

Denis Shostak, an exercise science major, ordered a shake full of “greens” at Shake Smart.

“I think all the smoothies are going to be popular and there are lots of options that are healthy, so that’s nice to see,” Shostak said.

Brodie Arbeiter, a kinesiology senior, wanted to be among the first to eat at Couch’s Corner.

“I am excited to have something different on campus, something healthy that will make my body feel better throughout the day,” Arbeiter said.

Couch’s Corner’s fall semester hours are as follows:

Monday–Thursday: 7:30 a.m.–9 p.m.
Friday:        7:30 a.m.–8 p.m.
Saturday:   10 a.m.–6:30 p.m.
Sunday:      Closed

Christian professionals speak at Faith and Enterprise event

The Jabs School of Business at California Baptist University hosted its first Faith and Enterprise event for the fall semester on Oct. 2. The evening featured several local pastors who shared their experiences concerning the business side of ministry.

Dr. Andrea Scott, dean of the School of Business, said the series is a way to expose students to professionals who love Jesus and are doing well in the marketplace.

Scott served as the moderator for the evening, fielding questions from the audience. The panel of executive pastors included John Collins from Harvest Christian Fellowship; Jon Hurst from The Grove Community Church; Kevin Bugingo from Relevant Church; and Dan Zimbardi from Sandals Church.

Zimbardi spoke of how he organized his workload as an executive pastor, explaining that a main task of an executive pastor’s is to figure out the most effective systems and processes.

“A lot of my work is around culture and organizational culture, which means creating a workplace where people want to work, they want to be there, they want to do their best work, their life’s work,” Zimbardi said.

Bugingo addressed the difference of return on investment (ROI) in ministry versus in business.

“In business, ROI is all about profits. It’s focused on the organization’s benefit,” Bugingo said. “The way I look at ministry is that it’s more like a family. A family functions on wanting the best for each individual’s success and each individual’s ROI. My goal as a leader is to help the [congregation] be the best that they can be.”

Jason Clarke, a business management senior, said he left the evening with a sentiment to remain humble and build meaningful relationships.

“When the pastors spoke about building relationships, that was big for me,” Clarke said. “I tend to just worry about my classes and keep to myself. But it is really important to mingle and relish in the relationships that you can find on campus and go from there.”

Nicole Berghorst, a marketing sophomore, enjoyed how the panel applied a biblical worldview to their jobs.

“I enjoyed hearing how they can add their Christian life to their job and how they differentiate their job from their personal life as well,” Berghorst said.

Three more Faith and Enterprise events are planned to take place during the 2019-2020 academic year at CBU.

CBU faculty members tackle “Biblical Spirituality” in new book 

Several faculty members within the School of Christian Ministries at California Baptist University helped produce the book “Biblical Spirituality,” which was released by Crossway publications in June 2019. The book is part of a theology series that explores biblical thought.

Dr. Chris Morgan, dean of the School of Christian Ministries at CBU, served as the editor for the book.

Morgan said the book addresses what biblical spiritually looks like on a day-to-day basis.

“Being spiritual is not separated from everything else we do. Being spiritual is related to our marriage, to our parenting, to our work; it’s related to every piece of what we do,” Morgan said. “The more I kept studying it, the more I kept thinking biblical spirituality is on the ground. It’s about day-to-day life.”

Morgan, Dr. Anthony Chute, professor of church history; Dr. Greg Cochran, professor of applied theology; and Ben Skaug, adjunct professor of Christian ministries, contributed writings for the publication. Cochran’s chapter focused on how spirituality relates to work.

“With spirituality, typically you think of a monk chanting in a sanctuary, but it’s meant to be lived out in the real world,” Cochran said. “It’s not that you have to be at work doing spiritual things, it’s that your work itself is established by God as a means to do good unto others, to love others, to serve others.”

Chute’s chapter examines prominent Christian figures such as Martin Luther and John Calvin.

“I looked at historical examples of how they worked out their spirituality,” Chute said. “That was my way of trying to put examples before us of what it means to live before God.”

Morgan and Skaug’s chapter looks at the tensions of Christian living as they expound on Romans 6-8.

“We have new hearts and desires that are God-ward, but we still have the old habits of sin even though we are no longer slaves to sin. We are slaves to Christ, but at times, our selfish habits and desires return,” Skaug said.

Morgan also wrote a chapter addressing the book of James and co-wrote a chapter on the trajectory of spirituality.

“James makes it very practical,” Morgan said. “True spirituality results in how one approaches suffering, the poor, to controlling words.”

The book series was created to assist pastors, seminary students and lay church leaders in their understanding of scripture.

“I hope that the book allows people to see that Christian spirituality is not a vague and directionless thing that leads people to create their own solutions. Rather, it is something that God has revealed to us from the Bible,” Skaug said.

 

“Reprocess” art exhibit at CBU Gallery focuses on recycling

The Rose Garden Gallery at California Baptist University is hosting a new exhibit titled “Reprocess” from artist Laura Goble that focuses on the concept of reworking. The exhibit, which features 29 separate installations, is open until Oct. 25.

“The theme is the recycling and remaking of old work and materials that I have sat with for a long time in my studio, and ideas and themes that continue to reoccur in my mind as I think about my work,” said Goble, who is an adjunct professor of fine art at CBU. “It’s about utilizing craft techniques that I have learned and developed over time and those processes and materials that keep inspiring me to make work.”

For Goble, developing as an artist has been a God-inspired endeavor.

“I think my passion for art came as I realized later in life that I loved using my imagination. As a video editor for eight years, I found working on the computer, in the dark, didn’t fuel my creativity, so I began praying for an opportunity to try something else. The Lord opened the opportunity for me in 2008 to leave that job and try art as a career,” Goble said.

Goble received her master of fine arts degree from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago. She now works in multiple art disciplines such as ceramic, sculpture, drawing, photography, sound and video.

Goble said her relationship with God inspires her work.

“Clay is a symbol used throughout the Bible to help us understand our relationship with God. It isn’t till you take a class and get on the wheel that the biblical metaphors of God being the potter and us the clay actually start to make sense,” Goble said. “The clay is stubborn, only the potter with expert hands can force it into shape. He expertly molds us. He knows our final form and what hand movements he needs to make to get us into that perfect shape.”

“I am so blessed. I want to share that blessing with others. This is why I do my work and teach. I am feeling more and more like I want my art to share the Gospel with people, and I can see that the Lord is giving me inspiration for this,” Goble said.

Rose Garden Gallery Hours:

Monday and Wednesday – 3–8 p.m.

Tuesday and Thursday – 5:30– 8p.m.

Career fair provides new networking opportunities for students

The Business and Internship Career Fair hosted by the Career Center at California Baptist University attracted hundreds of students and alumni on Sept. 25. Event-goers were dressed to impress and eager to network with 44 different employers that were offering internships and full-time jobs.

Lisa Singer, associate director of employer relations at CBU, said that the Career Center instructs students to come to the event prepared with appropriate attire and plenty of resumes to hand out.

“Students are investing in their education for one reason—to be ‘hirable,’” Singer said.

“[The Career Center] brings companies to CBU that are hiring both for internships and full-time career opportunities. The job market is incredible right now, but so is the competition. CBU students are given a great opportunity to stand out above their competition.”

Joshua Lomeli, a business administration junior, attended the fair, looking for an internship.

“I figured I need to start putting myself out there, look for new jobs and network,” said Lomeli. “This event allowed me to get more comfortable talking with employers and helped me to break out of my shell.”

Christopher Jones, a business administration junior, said he attended the fair to learn about hiring practices of employers that attended the event.

“I learned that it is important to just be yourself when speaking with employers, and I need to start an internship now because that is how I will get experience,” Jones said.

Maede Joice Aviado, a healthcare administration sophomore, was encouraged after speaking to the different company representatives.

“It gave me motivation that there are so many jobs out there,” Aviado said. “The company—Bay Alarm—was looking for graduate students but said they needed people like me—someone energetic and willing to put their customers first. The company said just to keep coming back because we are going to remember you.”

The CBU Career Center offers nine distinct fairs throughout the year that target specific disciplines.

Fall 2019 CBU enrollment sets another record

Fall 2019 enrollment at California Baptist University set another record with 11,045 students, an increase of 5.3 percent over the previous year, President Ronald L. Ellis announced today.

The increase numbered 559 more students than the previous record 10,486 enrollment in 2018, Ellis said. He noted that the 2019 full time equivalent (FTE) enrollment figure of 11,391 is 744 FTE’s or seven percent greater than the 2019 figure.

Ellis announced the latest record enrollment at the regular fall meeting of the CBU Board of Trustees. The triple-digit enrollment growth in 2019 follows three years of 600-plus increases (610, 698, 618), one four-digit increase of 1,113, and four 3-digit increases of 813, 584, 616 and 784.

“Add the current year increase of 559 and over the last 10 years CBU enrollment has grown 6,940 on a base of 4,105 in fall 2009—a 169 percent increase in 10 years,” Ellis declared.

During its 69-year history, California Baptist University has seen 19 triple-digit or greater year-over-year increases—all of them occurring since fall 1995.

Since Ellis became president in November 1994, CBU enrollment has grown from 808 to 11,045, an increase of 10,237, which is 13.67 times larger.

“Fall 2019 is another record breaking enrollment increase on top of a sustained 25 years of significant increases,” Ellis told the trustees. “It puts CBU ahead of schedule to attain the 12,000 by 2025 goal.”

Founded in 1950, CBU is a private comprehensive Christian university located in Riverside, Calif. and affiliated with the California Southern Baptist Convention. CBU is a member of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities, the Association of Independent California Colleges and Universities, and the International Association of Baptist Colleges and Universities.

Ribbon cutting ceremony opens Psychological Services of Riverside

Psychological Services of Riverside (PSR) hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony on Sept. 25, marking the opening of the center. The center will help the mental health needs of the community in addition to training California Baptist University doctoral students.

The PSR clinic will offer psychological counseling, assessment and consultation services to residents of Riverside and nearby communities, while seeking to support underserved populations in the area. The clinic will offer such services as individual, child, family, couples and group therapy; psychoeducation; psychological assessment; and consultation. Services will be provided on a sliding fee scale.

Psychological Services of Riverside also will provide a second-year training experience for students in the Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology (PsyD) program in CBU’s College of Behavioral and Social Sciences. The students will be supervised by licensed psychologists—mostly CBU faculty—who also will provide services at the clinic.

Deandra Edison-Riley, a PsyD student at CBU, spoke during the ceremony about her journey to become a clinical psychologist.

“I’m very excited to be among the first to provide psychotherapy to members of the community here at the Psychological Services of Riverside,” Edison-Riley said. “It is my faith, which powers my God-given purpose to come alongside those who are suffering and walk with them down the path toward healing.”

Roi Sorbel, a PsyD student at CBU, said he hopes the opening of the clinic will continue to bring awareness to mental health issues.

“[Psychological Services of Riverside] will raise mental health awareness especially with young adults and elementary schools,” Sorbel said. “Nowadays mental health is becoming such a great thing to talk about because everyone is affected by it.”

CBU faculty members and staff in addition to Riverside city and community officials were on hand for the ribbon cutting ceremony and open house.

“As we seek to serve our neighbors together, I’m confident that we can make an incredible difference for those individuals, families and groups suffering in our community,” said Dr. Jacqueline Gustafson, dean of the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences at CBU. “If we might be just a small part of a

collective force to make Riverside a stronger and more supported community and bring hope and healing to those who are most suffering, we will consider our work worthwhile.”

Dr. Ronald L. Ellis, president of CBU, said this center will affect individual lives for the good of society.

“[CBU’s] legacy is to make a positive impact in other people’s lives,” Ellis said. “Thank you so much for being here at this dedication and for helping to make this be something that is a real value for the Riverside community.”

TWIRP week tradition helps create social connections at CBU

TWIRP (The Woman Is Required to Pay) week officially kicked off on Sept. 24 with a concert, one of the many events created for students to enjoy social interactions throughout the week.

Kristin Holderman, director of campus activities, said the tradition of TWIRP is geared toward creating a fun and safe environment for students to connect and form new friendships.

“We just want students to make connections and these types of traditional events help students feel a part of the CBU community,” Holderman said.

The Associated Students of CBU helped organize events that include a concert by Harbor & Home, a movie night, a barn dance and an outing to a MLB game.

Isabella Ayllon, a worship arts and ministry freshman, said she likes that the TWIRP tradition encourages a woman to invite a man to an outing.

“TWIRP is a week where the girls get to ask out the guys instead of the other way around, which is breaking that stereotype,” Ayllon said.

Ashley Fisher, a pre-nursing sophomore, attended the concert with hopes of making new friends.

“I think it is fun because you’re encouraged to meet more people. Going to an event like this one, you get to see so many new faces and I think it’s really cool event, even if you don’t go with a guy,” Fisher said.

Family Updates

Dr. Charles “Chuck” Sands, provost and vice president for academic affairs, spoke at the International Conference on Health, Wellness and Society on Sept. 19. His presentation was titled Preliminary Investigation of Prehypertension in Taxi Drivers in Jilin, China. At the conference, Sands shared his team’s research on this topic. Sands was the lead author with co-authors Dr. Linn Carothers, professor of mathematics; and Jin Shu, president of Chia Tai International Hospital.

 

 

C.L. Lopez, adjunct professor for CBU Online; Dr. Mary Ann Pearson, professor of communication arts; and Dr. Victoria Brodie, assistant professor of public relations, presented at a Public Relations Student Society of America event at CBU during public relations week on Sept. 17. The team shared on topics such as networking, résumé construction, internships and various industries in the field of public relations.

 

 

 

 

 

Dr. Juan Castro, adjunct professor of business for CBU Online, published a book with his daughter, Esther Castro, who is an assistant professor of finance at the University of Houston, titled The Principles of Quantitative Finance.

Dr. Lysa Liggins, adjunct professor of public administration for CBU Online, presented at the National List Tour Profit Accelerator conference on Sept. 20-21. Her presentation was entitled The Psychology of Personalities and focused on the range of behaviors individuals have as well as what causes reactions to other people’s behavior.

Dr. Bonjun Koo, professor of environmental science, presented a poster at the 2019 Korean Society of Soil Science and Fertilizer International Conference in Busan, South Korea on Aug. 23. The presentation was titled Accumulation of Heavy Metals in Citrus Orchard Soils in Jeju Island.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Stephen Brown, associate professor of behavioral sciences, along with Dr. Linda-Marie Sundstrom,  director of the CBU Online Master of Public Administration program, presented at the Teaching Public Administration Conference on Sept. 19–20. Their presentation was titled Student Engagement in the 21st Century Asynchronous Classroom.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Marc Weniger, professor of business, and Dr. Joel Bigley, assistant professor of business, had their paper Trust in the Press as an Institution published in the International Journal of Innovative Studies in Sociology and Humanities.

 

 

 

Dr. Natalie Winter, professor of business, presented at the Marketing Management Association Educators Conference on Sept. 20. Winter participated in a panel presentation titled Let’s Get Real: Innovative Real World Classroom Learning Strategies.

 

 

 

 

Michael Berger, program director for graphic design and visual experience, worked as a creative director for an advertising campaign for the upcoming March 2020 NASCAR race at the Auto Club Speedway.

 

 

 

 

Keenan Herdeg became the first graduate of the new military pilot concentration program within the Bachelor of Science in Aviation Flight program. Col. John Marselus, chair of the aviation science department, administered an oath of office for Herdeg as he will serve in the Marines.

 

 

 

Dr. Bonjun Koo, professor of environmental science and faculty advisor for the Environmental Science Club, led students on several clean-up service projects. Koo and his team of students participated in the following clean-up events:

• Huntington Beach Clean-Up: Saturday, Sept. 21
• Santa Ana River Community Clean-Up: Saturday, Sept. 28
• CBU Campus Clean Up: Wednesday, Oct. 2

 

Dr. Frederick Pontius, associate professor of civil and environmental engineering, was a visiting professor at Chung Yuan Christian University located in Taoyuan, Taiwan from May through July 2019. During his stay, he conducted research and published a peer-reviewed paper titled Regulation of Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA) and Perfluorooctane Sulfonic Acid (PFOS) in Drinking Water: A Comprehensive Review. Water 2019, 11(10), 2003.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Vance Nichols, adjunct professor in the Dr. Bonnie G. Metcalf School of Education, presented a two-day track at the ACSI Professional Development Forum entitled Reenvisioning, Reinventing, and Retooling: Creating a School Culture that Fuels Innovation. During his three sessions, Nichols presented research findings and applied implications for practice regarding school culture and the necessity for immediate, comprehensive and sustainable educational innovation. Dr. James Heyman, program director for the Master of Science Educational Leadership for Faith-Based Institutions program, was also in attendance and contributed at the sessions.

 

 

Dr. Karla N. Ra, adjunct professor of Christian studies, published Book Review on Teaching the World: Foundations for Online Theological Education for the Journal of Baptist Theology and Ministry.

The College of Architecture, Visual Art, and Design hosted its second annual Photography Academy on Sept. 31. Christopher Kern, assistant professor at CAVAD, helped coordinate the event that welcomed 40 high school students and educators from the community. The event featured CBU faculty members from CAVAD and community partners that hosted various workshops.

 

 

 

Brenda Harris, adjunct professor of education, Donna Harris, adjunct professor of English, along with two CBU students Anna Hart and Maria Esther Villalpando spent three weeks in China teaching English. The group traveled to Beijing, Datangzhen, Gaoqiazhen, Jiangshan, Quzhou City, Shanghai, Xuhui and Zhengzhou.

Financial Aid staff members Joel Brown, Andy Musser, Josh Morey and Ryley Marble summited Mt. Langley, the ninth highest peak in California at 14,026 feet high. The peak is 4.6 miles southeast of Mt. Whitney in the Sierra Nevada mountain range.

 

 

 

 

Bryan Engle, associate director of athletics/facilities and game management, and his wife, Keri Engle, welcomed Adelyn Leigh Engle on Friday, Sept. 20. Adelyn weighed 7 lbs and 3 ounces and was 20.25 inches long.

 

 

Upcoming chapel services:
Oct. 22: Mark Lee, lead pastor of Vantage Point Church located in Eastvale, California
Oct. 29: Dr. John Montgomery, dean of spiritual life

Personnel Updates

 

In this issue…

• Current News
• Family Updates
• Personnel Updates

Current News

Athletics Performance Center opens for Lancer Athletics

Student athletes have another reason to be pumped at California Baptist University. The university unveiled its Athletic Performance Center at a dedication ceremony on Sept. 20. The center features a 10,800-square-foot weight room, which makes the center the largest facility for a NCAA Division I non-football institution in the state of California.

The new center quadruples the size of the previous CBU strength and conditioning facility. The Athletic Performance Center is situated next to the 40,682-square-foot Recreation Center that opened in January 2013. The expanded facilities are part of the renovation of Lancer Plaza that now features a new entrance to CBU at Adams Street and Lancer Lane, a five-story East Parking Structure with more than 1,450 car stalls and the CBU Events Center that holds more than 5,000 seats for sporting and university events.

The Lancers are in their second year of a four-year transition into full NCAA Division I membership.

The Athletic Performance Center is equipped with some 9,300 pounds of weights, 14 squat racks, 18 pulley stations and 12 sets of dumbbells. There is also an indoor six-lane, 30-yard training area and a nutrition bar located in the facilities.

Dr. Micah Parker, director of athletics, said more than 450 student athletes in CBU’s 18 D-I teams would work out in the facilities multiple times weekly.

“Our mission here is to honor Christ through excellence in athletics, and this facility is going to help us do that,” Parker said. “This is where winning records, conference championships and memories will be created, not only for our university but for our community.”

 

CBU students receive LinkedIn training during seminar

Hundreds of California Baptist University students learned how to navigate and optimize their LinkedIn profiles at a seminar hosted by the Career Center on Sept. 19.

During the seminar, students were given a tutorial on how to create a professional LinkedIn profile. Students also learned how to network on the platform and strategize for potential jobs. Additionally, at the end of the seminar the students had the opportunity to take professional photos to place on their profile.

Lisa Singer, associate director of employer relations, said that LinkedIn is not like any other social media platform. It is a professional networking site that helps build one’s professional online presence, she explained.

“When I was your age, I could go into a potential employer and try to connect,” Singer told the audience. “LinkedIn can take the place of connecting with an employer face to face. Your profile is not supposed to mirror your resume, it is meant to accentuate it and create the narrative of why an employer should choose you.”

Jamie Jillson, career counselor at CBU, told students that a strong profile could draw job recruiters.

“Over 90% of recruiters actually use LinkedIn to vet their candidates. Vetting candidates is what recruiters can do to search your experience, education and your skills and qualifications,” Jillson said. “This is why you want to make sure your LinkedIn profile is strong, constantly updated and accurate.”

Ilyanna Capacete, a liberal studies senior, said she was encouraged to create a LinkedIn account after attending the seminar.

“I think just knowing that it will be more helpful in finding a job after I graduate is my biggest takeaway,” Capacete said.

Amanda Gann, a biomedical engineering junior, appreciated the strategies for networking and making connections.

“It’s important to make sure you connect with employers you’re interested in and also people in general. It doesn’t have to be someone you’re like best friends with; it can be anyone that can help you get a job in the future,” Gann said.

 

CBU scores high in Niche rankings for quality of campus life

California Baptist University received multiple recognitions in the latest national rankings, placing No. 6 for “Best College Campus,” No. 7 for “Best College Food” and No. 27 for “Best College Dorms,” according to a 2020 Niche Best Colleges list.

The Niche 2020 Best College rankings are based on numerous statistical analyses per category, 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 Niche Best College Campus standings also take into account the quality of housing, food services and students’ reviews of the campus.

“As a current sophomore, I couldn’t be more satisfied with my decision to attend CBU. It has everything I was looking for: small student to professor ratio, rigorous academics, positive campus culture, strong faith environment, and top-notch athletics. When I first walked onto campus, I immediately felt as though this could be my new home,” wrote a student reviewer on Niche.com’s profile page for CBU.

CBU also placed high among the Niche rankings for California colleges, including No. 2 for both “Best College Campus” and “Best College Food.” CBU placed No. 4 in the state for “Best College Dorms,” No. 9 for “Best Christian Colleges,” and No. 12 for “Best College Athletics in California.”

The Niche.com rankings come after the recent announcement that CBU was ranked No. 43 by U.S. News and World Report in the category of “Best Regional University.”

 

On Constitution Day, lecturer talks about human equality

Political systems and the ideas about justice have enormous power to shape the character and the way of life for individuals living under them, Dr. Christina Villegas told an audience at California Baptist University on Sept. 17.

Villegas, assistant professor of political science at California State University, San Bernardino, spoke at a Constitution Day event at CBU. Constitution Day marks the signing of the U.S. Constitution on Sept. 17, 1787.

Villegas said the Declaration of Independence includes “self-evident truths,” which focuses on the idea of natural human equality. However, the protection of those rights might seem incompatible with a government by consent, she added.

“The solution was a constitutional republic,” Villegas said. “American constitutionalism is rooted in the idea that individuals have rights that should not be repealed by human laws and that a constitution should be adopted to limit the scope of democracy.”

To achieve the goal of establishing a government based on consent that also protects rights, the American Constitution rests on the principal that state power should be limited in scope and non-arbitrary in character, Villegas said.

“If government is going to protect rights, it needs to be limited in such a way that it doesn’t become a threat to those rights,” Villegas said. “A non-arbitrary government is one that doesn’t pick and choose which groups it wants to protect from injury but protects all those under its jurisdiction through a blind, equal and consistent execution of the law.”

Villegas said these principles have faced challenges over the years. She said one of the first major challenges was equal natural rights and slavery. Today, many intellectuals and politicians fractionalize individuals into social identity groups, whether on the basis of class, gender or race, etc., she added.

“An unfettered state that starts favoring individuals based on their membership in a particular class starts to deprive them of their claim of rights outside of their identity with that class and therefore it ironically threatens the equality and the rights of all men and women,” Villegas said.

 

Future pastors start training in the applied theology program

When Jeremy Flye was 13, his grandfather’s death made Flye think about his own faith in the midst of sorrow.

“His death led me to search the Bible for answers, which ended up being the only source of rest for my soul in the midst of my grief,” said Flye, who is enrolled in the Bachelor of Applied Theology program at California Baptist University. “I gained a greater dependence upon God and trust in His promises.”

As a student at Woodcrest Christian High School in Riverside, Flye developed a love for studying the Bible and during that time, the desire to teach the Good Book grew.

“[The applied theology program] will help me to not only grow in my knowledge and study of Scripture, but it will also help me in the application of it in the local church,” said Flye, who started his first semester at CBU this fall. “I want to go to seminary and become a teaching pastor at a church. I hope to write books on theology and Christian living.”

The Bachelor of Applied Theology program aims to train and support students as they pursue ministry and fulfill the Great Commission’s mandate.

Dr. Greg Cochran, director of applied theology within the School of Christian Ministries, said students ultimately have teaching or preaching in their sights as they begin their studies in the Bachelor of Applied Theology program. All the faculty members in the School of Christian Ministries have been involved in ministry in some point in their lives, Cochran added.

“The disposition of our faculty is to think of our academic discipline through the lens of church ministry,” Cochran said. “Additionally, we bring in church planters, evangelists, pastors and missionaries in order to complement what is being learned through books and through the study of Scripture.”

The School of Christian Ministries Lecture Series also provides an opportunity for students to learn from leading evangelical scholars who encourage students in their ministry pursuits. Speakers have included Dr. John MacArthur, Dr. David Dockery, Dr. D.A. Carson and Dr. Steven Lawson.

Applied theology students are required to complete a two-year internship with a local church, which often directs their endeavors after graduating.

While in high school, Brianna Rios, applied theology freshman, became involved in ministry at her church and joined a Bible study. Studying God’s word sparked a passion in her life.

“Reading and studying the Bible for myself opened my eyes to the wonder of God’s word and to the beauty of His character. Growing in my faith helped me realize that I want to spend my life studying God’s word and helping others do so as well,” Rios said. “I know that God wants everyone—both men and women—to know Him deeply and to serve Him with the gifts He gave them.”

“My future goals include teaching the word of God at both the secondary and post-secondary education levels. I also hope to work sometime in Latin America,” said Rios, whose family is from Mexico.

Sam Nguyen, applied theology freshman who is planning to become a pastor, had a mentor encourage him to consider the program at CBU.

“CBU’s applied theology program was a major reason why I chose to attend,” Nguyen said. “I also loved the fact that CBU allows people who aren’t Christian to attend. I thought that is a fantastic opportunity for evangelism and a perfect opportunity to share the love of Jesus.”

“I hope to preach the Gospel wherever God sends me,” Nguyen said.

 

The quest for the Fortuna Bowl XXVIII Trophy begins at CBU

Are you ready for some football? The intramural football season kicked off at California Baptist University on Sept. 16. This year, nine women’s and 16 men’s teams are competing for the coveted Fortuna Bowl XXVIII Trophy, given to the champions of the men’s and women’s leagues.

Joe Mitten, a foundational mathematics freshman, joined a team to make new friends and stay active during the semester. Mitten said he has heard that the Fortuna Bowl is a big event on campus and is happy to be a part of process leading up to the championship games.

“I just want to watch the big game. I would love to play in it, but as long as I’m there to watch it, I’ll be good,” Mitten said.

Tyler Cox, director of recreation programs at CBU, said intramural sports provide an outlet for competitive and recreational play.

“Students who participate can expect to build community on campus by meeting new people and building deeper relationships with some of their current friends,” Cox said.

Cox said that thousands of students are expected to participate throughout the academic year in intramural sports and competitive events that include volleyball, dodgeball, basketball, soccer and softball. The most popular sport is flag football, Cox added.

The championship games will be held on Nov. 9 during Parent and Family Weekend. Every year, thousands of students, friends, family and alumni attend the Fortuna Bowl games. Along with food trucks and carnival games, this year’s setup will include an American Ninja Warrior course.

 

Club Fair showcases more than 70 clubs offered at CBU

Hundreds of California Baptist University students attended a Club Fair in Stamps Courtyard at California Baptist University on Sept. 13. The event, hosted by the CBU Community Life office, featured more than 70 club representatives that highlighted academic and social clubs in addition to recreational activities that are available throughout the semester.

Madeline Schaller, a nursing senior, greeted event-goers on behalf of the Students of Nursing Association club. Schaller has been involved with the club for more than a year. The club provides opportunities for service beyond the classroom, Schaller said.

“It is a good way to get hours of community service and it is good for your resume. When I graduate and apply for jobs, it will help me stand out from the crowd,” Schaller said.

Kamari Hooks, an accounting senior and president of the United Club, said her club aims to explore diversity and help welcome all races and ethnicities on campus.

“We come together to talk about our differences and multicultural backgrounds in an effort to become united,” Hooks said.

Karli Yocum, a biology junior, joined the biology club.

“I want to be surrounded by people who can give guidance on what direction I can take with my career,” Yocum said.

 

Graduate nursing students mark progress at pinning ceremony

A group of graduate nursing students at California Baptist University took a step closer to becoming registered nurses during a pinning ceremony on Sept. 12.

Thirty-seven students, who completed the pre-licensure program over 15 months, received a pin from a School of Nursing faculty member during the event hosted at Harvest Christian Fellowship in Riverside. The students now are qualified to take the licensure exam. Additionally, 40 students, who finished their first semester in the Entry-Level Master of Science in Nursing program, received a traditional Gideon pocket Bible to help them as they assist patients in the future.

Margaret Matthews, assistant professor of nursing, reminded the students that there is a science and an art to nursing.

“Science is all about the head, and we do a good job at the College of Nursing with filling your heads with lots of science,” Matthews said. “Now you get to take that and start practicing the art of nursing. If the science of nursing is all about the head, the art of nursing is all about the heart. When you start leading with your heart, the job becomes more than just a job. It becomes a profession, it becomes a passion and most importantly it becomes a privilege.”

Shadrach Dones, graduate nursing student, said the pinning meant all the hard work paid off and he looked forward to putting it into practice.

“This program has taught us how to serve,” Dones said. “Ultimately what God has called us to do is serve people. I think with nursing, it’s an honor to serve these people in the roughest parts of their life.”

Student Nastaishia Allen said receiving the pin made her feel like she was a nurse and she can go out to make a difference.

“I’m getting the best education here and the program really helps me live my true purpose,” Allen said. “I love helping people, I love being hands on.”

For Elizabeth McDaniel, becoming a nurse is a second career.

“This is something I put on hold for 30 years, and I finally got the opportunity,” McDaniel said. “It’s a lifelong dream realizing a goal I’ve had for a long time.”

 

CBU observes the 18th anniversary of 9/11 terror attacks

Hundreds of California Baptist University students, staff and faculty members commemorated the 18th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks by placing U.S. flags in the shape of a cross in Stamps Courtyard.

The Associated Students of California Baptist University (ASCBU) organized the event on Sept. 11, honoring the 2,977 people who lost their lives in the collective events known as 9/11.

Throughout the day, members of the CBU community stopped to take a flag and place it among hundreds of others. People knelt, reflected and some said a prayer. Additionally, in the evening there was a time of reflection, worship and prayer offered.

For Rocky Estevez, a theater and political science sophomore, continuing to pray for families affected by 9/11 comes from personal experience.

“My family is from New York so it really hits close to home. That day for my family was scary since my uncle is a flight attendant and my dad actually made a delivery to the Twin Towers 30 minutes before they were hit,” recalled Estevez. “The whole day just hits close to home, which is why I think it is important to lift up these people and their families up today.”

Andrew Zhu, a biomedical engineering junior, stopped by Stamps Courtyard before class to place a flag and remembered the tragic day.

“It’s really important for us to keep in touch with something that commemorates an important day in American history,” Zhu said.

Allie Sutherlin, an early childhood studies senior, said the event helped her to reflect and be thankful for today.

“CBU does a really great job of acknowledging and validating students’ feelings in general. This event makes a public statement that CBU wants to remember those that lost their lives on 9/11,” Sutherlin said.

 

Education dean seeks to equip teachers for the classroom

Dr. Robin Duncan smiled as she reminisced about her years in education.

“I always loved math and thought everyone else should love it too,” said Duncan, dean of the Dr. Bonnie G. Metcalf School of Education at California Baptist University.

Duncan started teaching in middle school and later transitioned to teaching math and chemistry in high school.

“I wanted to make a difference in the lives of students,” Duncan said.

She recognized that not all teachers had the training or passion to do the same. That desire led her to seek additional training in higher education.

“I thought, I’m only one teacher. If I teach at a university level, I’m able to continually train educators who positively affect students’ lives; the impact is exponential,” Duncan said.

Duncan transitioned to teaching at Samford University (Birmingham, Alabama), where she earned her doctorate degree in education leadership. She also became a director for one of the university’s education programs. Then, she was presented with an opportunity to work overseas. Duncan, her husband, Rob and their two children, spent a year in Indonesia and then three years in Malaysia. Duncan created a program to assist refugee students who wanted to attend college.

“I had the belief that if those students who had lived the [refugee] experience have an education, then they may be the very ones who can speak into the future of how we can better serve our brothers and sisters around the world,” Duncan said.

When the couple’s time in Malaysia was scheduled to end, the Duncans prayed whether to stay or return to the U.S.

“Then the opportunity at CBU presented itself, and it just felt like it was the right fit,” Duncan said. “One of the things that drew me to CBU was how truly Great Commission-focused CBU is. We were overseas because God called us to be. If we were coming back to the U.S., we wanted to come to a place where we could continue living out that Biblical mandate—‘to make disciples.’”

Duncan, who started at CBU last November, said the School of Education has a reputation of training professional educators and leaders in their field.

This fall 2019 semester, nearly 900 students are enrolled in the School of Education. The largest program within the school is the Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Studies program, which has more than 130 students enrolled. The largest graduate programs by enrollment include the credential, Master of Science in School Counseling and the Master of Science in School Psychology.

“All of our programs are about people caring about others and people who want to make a difference in others’ lives,” Duncan said. “I want to see us producing the best teachers for the students in our schools. The research shows us that a good teacher has more impact on a student’s learning than anything else. We want to produce teachers who have the skills and knowledge but also compassion and the heart to be the very best every single day for every student in their classroom.”

The goal is not only to give educators the research-based skills, techniques and methods, but also that they develop a heart to provide equity in the classroom, Duncan said.

“If we believe that every child is created by God and in the image of God, we’re going to do everything in our power to be the very best teacher for that student,” Duncan said. “If each of our teachers gives their best, we will see students’ lives transformed.”

 

Family Updates

Dr. Gene Moon, associate professor of music, served as guest conductor of the Orquesta Sinfónica Nacional in the Dominican Republic on Sept. 11. The national orchestra is based in the capital, Santo Domingo.

 

 

 

 

 

Dr. Mary Ann Pearson, professor of communication, and C.L. Lopez, adjunct professor of public relations for Online and Professional Studies, presented a national webinar for the Public Relations Society of America on Sept. 17. The title was Mentoring and Empowering.

 

 

 

 

Andrew Cress, director of special projects for the Office of Educational Effectiveness, was selected to serve a three-year-term on the board of directors of the California Association for Institutional Research. His term will begin January 2020.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Ashley Parks, assistant professor of public health, and Matthew Lazari, adjunct professor of public health sciences, presented a poster at the National Association for Healthcare Quality – NAHQ NEXT Conference in Phoenix on Sept. 17. The title was Advancing the Healthcare Quality Profession by Developing Direct Educational Pathways. Parks presented a second poster titled Driving Performance Improvement in Glycemic Management: Implementation of Basal Bolus Insulin Protocol.

 

 

 

 

CBU Veterans Resource Center celebrated the 72nd birthday of the U.S. Air Force on Sept. 18. In continuing the military tradition for each branch’s birthday, a senior and junior member of the Air Force cut the cake. Lt. Col. Benjamin Smith, commander of the Air Force ROTC at California State University, San Bernardino, served as the senior member. Dean Smith, an Air Force veteran and a CBU aerospace engineering student, served as the junior member.

 

 

 

 

 

Dr. Virgo Handojo, professor of psychology, was a plenary speaker at the Christian Psychology Association at Satya Wacana University, in Salatiga, Indonesia, on Aug. 2-3. His presentation was titled Love, Spirituality, and Happiness. He also presented a series of seminars for faculty, students and local educators at Petra University, in Surabaya, Indonesia on July 5-6. The seminars were on Self-Love Assessment for Teaching Enhancement and Creative Teaching and Learning Strategies For Generation Alpha and Future Learners.

 

 

Dr. Sandra Romo, associate professor of communication for Online and Professional Studies, gave a presentation at the 33rd Annual Children’s Network Conference in Ontario, California, on Sept. 19. The title of her presentation was Building Community and Trust In Alternative Education Programs for Children and Youth.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Victoria Brodie, assistant professor of public relations, presented at the first day of Leadership Riverside on Sept. 6. The title of the presentation was Leadership Styles. Leadership Riverside is a 10-month program sponsored by the Greater Riverside Chambers of Commerce to empower and educate decision makers in the community by immersing them in the issues and challenges that shape Riverside’s future.

 

 

 

The Office of Mobilization hosted its annual Leader Appreciation Dinner on Sept. 12. Each year, the office honors faculty, staff and alumni who have led International Service Projects. This year, Brenda Flores, assistant director-business administration for Facilities and Planning Services, and Jim Scheer, landscape lead for Facilities and Planning Services, were honored for leading teams for five years. Dr. Chris McHorney, professor of political science, and Ken Sanford, adjunct professor of education, were honored for 10 years of service. Dr. Lisa Bursch, associate professor of nursing, was named Mobilization Leader of the Year. Bursch has led teams to South Asia, Philippines, Spain, South America and Zambia.

 

 

 

Dr. Monica O’Rourke, professor of kinesiology, and CBU alumnus Keith Coury spoke at Norte Vista High School in Riverside on Aug. 28. They talked to advance placement statistics students about what it is like to work in the health and human performance industry and provided a variety of examples of how statistics is used in kinesiology.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Kendra Flores-Carter, assistant professor of social work, was the keynote speaker at the Riverside Community Health Foundation Maternal Wellness Seminar on Sept. 7. She spoke on perinatal mental health to pregnant and postpartum moms. Additionally, she presented a workshop at the 33rd San Bernardino County Children’s Network Conference in Ontario, California, on Sept. 18. The title was Improving Maternal Mental Health in Primary Care.

 

 

 

 

Military veterans enrolled at CBU attended the taping of the Veterans Day special of the “The Price is Right” in West Hollywood on Sept. 15. The episode will air on Veterans Day, Nov. 11.

 

 

 

 

Upcoming chapel services:
Oct. 1: Damon Horton, assistant professor in the CBU School of Christian Ministries
Oct. 3: Dhati Lewis, lead teaching pastor at Blueprint Church in Atlanta, Georgia
Oct. 8: Jacob Ravenscraft, CBU director of University Ministries
Oct. 15: Anthony Evans and Band, worship leader, artist and vocal producer

 

Christy Mathews, director of admissions and enrollment services for Online and Professional Studies, and her husband, Trevor, welcomed a son on July 31. Andrew James Mathews weighed 7 pounds, 12 ounces and measured 21 inches long.

 

 

 

 

Personnel Updates

 

In this issue…

• Current News
• Family Updates
• Personnel Updates

Current News

CBU welcomes hundreds of students from around the globe  

Nearly 150 new international students from 38 countries are being welcomed at California Baptist University from Aug. 27-30 during international orientation.

Shellyn Beltran, assistant director of international student services, said the orientation are opportunities to help students with their transition to life at CBU.

“Orientation will cover topics such as culture shock,” Beltran said. “We have them meet with different offices around campus, so they can know what resources are out there.”

Other sessions will cover CBU policies and immigration regulations for students. Students also learn about physical and mental health resources offered at the Recreation Center and the Counseling Center, respectively. Additionally, during orientation, students have social outings, starting with a barbecue dinner and then trips to a minor league baseball game and the beach.

Shail Dave, a kinesiology freshman from India, heard about CBU from friends who had attended the university.

“I am looking forward to focusing on my studies and the cultural events that happen here on campus. I’m eager to join them,” Dave said.

Danprng Gao, a graduate nursing student from China, said she wants to learn more about the U.S. and improve in her field of study.

“I wanted to be able to study here at CBU because it is in the U.S., and it’s an amazing opportunity for me,” Gao said.

Approximately 350 international students will attend CBU this fall. Throughout the year, the Office of International Student Services hosts events such as Taste the Nations, Festival of Colors and the Lunar New Year. These events aim to celebrate the cultural diversities of international students and to connect those students with the greater CBU community. Smaller events also are held, such as a cultural café, where international students prepare food or play a traditional game from a student’s home country.

Leslie Shelton, director of international student services, said the activities are aimed at fulfilling the office’s mission: serve students, share culture and connect people.

“It takes extra effort and extra patience to build those relationships because there is a cultural difference and sometimes there is a language barrier,” Shelton said. “Once you do make friends with an international student, it is really valuable because you get to learn so much and experience so many new things.”

 

Kickoff events welcome new graduate students to CBU

California Baptist University welcomed hundreds of new graduate students at a variety of kickoff events from Aug. 19-20.

“Graduate Student Kickoff is an opportunity for students to learn about the culture and mission of CBU while also learning about the resources available to them,” said Alma Salazar, director of graduate admissions.  “As they launch into their studies, we are excited to celebrate them and offer support from our staff and faculty.”

The kickoff events were program specific and began with a resource fair, allowing students to connect with representatives from various campus offices. The events also included breakout sessions, where students met with their corresponding program directors.

More than 800 new master’s degree students and more than 100 doctoral students are expected to attend CBU this fall through traditional programs and the Division of Online and Professional Studies. In total, more than 2,700 master’s students will be enrolled in more than 45 programs and more than 200 students enrolled in five doctoral programs.

Priscilla Egbe will be working on two degree programs—a Master of Arts in Counseling Ministryand a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology.

“I chose CBU because it is faith based. I think it is important for the field I am entering,” Egbe said.

Justice Comeaux, a Master of Arts in Forensic Psychology student, said she was looking forward to connecting with other graduate students.

“I heard that CBU has one of the best forensic psychology programs and I wanted to learn from the best and be around the best,” Comeaux said.

Dr. Jacqueline Gustafson, dean of the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences, encouraged the students in their new endeavors at one of the kickoff events.

“Your story right now might be full of fear and doubts, hardships, failures, setbacks and certainly the unknown. Or maybe you’re that individual in a place of success and comfort in this season in your life,” Gustafson said. “No matter what your story is you were created for a purpose, and you were created to be courageous in the midst of your story.”

 

CBU celebrates record number of graduates

California Baptist University honored its latest graduates during dual summer commencement ceremonies hosted on Aug. 22.

There were 872 students eligible to participate in summer commencement ceremonies. That number, combined with graduation candidates for the previous fall and spring commencements, totals 2,920 candidates for the Class of 2019, representing CBU’s largest graduating class yet.

CBU also opened its new East Parking Structure for the first time for a commencement crowd. Many attendees arrived through the new main campus entrance off Adams Street and parked within the five-level structure that features two elevator towers and more than 1,450 stalls.

Dr. Thom Rainer, founder and CEO of Church Answers, was the commencement speaker. Rainer encouraged graduates to be “a person with a vision and become a difference maker” for God.

“Jesus tells us the only way to really follow him is not to seek to be served at the throne, but to serve,” Rainer said. “His message is clear. Do you really want to see visions? Do you really want to make a difference? Get to the end of the line. Abandon the entitlement mentality. Don’t worry about getting credit.”

Rainer also challenged the audience to trust in God.

“I do pray, however, you will hear God’s Word more than the address of a (graduation) speaker. I pray you will hear he has given you a life to live to make a difference. I pray you will ask him how you can make a difference with the plan he has clearly given,” Rainer said.

The ceremonies drew an estimated 5,400 spectators.

Krystal Louise, who graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies degree, was excited that 10 of her family members and friends were able to attend the ceremony.

“I give all the glory to God for this accomplishment,” Louise said. “I believe that my skillset has developed at CBU. I am a better communicator and I also believe that my leadership style has been forged.”

Elizabeth Boehling graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration degree through the CBU Online and Professional Division. Boehling works for the County of Riverside and choose CBU Online for its flexibility.

“I want to advance in my career field and coming to CBU was a part of my career path,” Boehing said. “The professors were a great help to me and they worked well with my schedule.”

 

Distinguished students ring in commencement ceremonies

More than 870 students at California Baptist University were eligible to participate in two summer commencement ceremonies on Aug. 22. Two graduates chosen from among the highest-ranking students began each ceremony with a CBU tradition—ringing the bell.

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

Norma Benavidez, who received a Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration, rang the bell at the morning ceremony. Kimberly Gledhill, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology, did the honors at the afternoon ceremony.

Benavidez, who graduated with a 3.82 GPA, said she was excited to learn of the recognition.

“It caught me off guard because I would have never imagined that I would have ever had this honor to play this role in such an important day in my life,” Benavidez said.

Balancing family, work and school was both her biggest challenge and success, Benavidez noted.

“For years I procrastinated going back to school, but I proved to myself that I was able to balance life and at the same time show my kids that you can accomplish anything you put your mind to with hard work and dedication,” Benavidez said. “CBU has helped me rethink my career goals now that I have more confidence in what I feel I can achieve.”

Gledhill, who graduated with a 3.97 GPA, plans to return to CBU this fall to start her Master of Social Work program.

“CBU has provided amazing academics and a great community of students and faculty that have grown me in all areas of my life,” Gledhill said.

Gledhill added that CBU broadened her perspective and worldview through providing opportunities to learn more about global cultures through classes, on-campus events and outreach.

“Studying sociology, I was thankful for the diverse population at CBU and opportunities to partake in culturally rich experiences to better understand different perspectives,” Gledhill said.

 

Hooding ceremonies highlight students’ academic success

Hundreds of master’s degree candidates at California Baptist University celebrated their academic achievements at department specific hooding ceremonies during the week leading up to commencement ceremonies on Aug. 22.

At CBU, colleges and schools hold individual hooding ceremonies to recognize their candidates and also give students their distinctive colored hoods to wear at commencement.

Nearly 490 master’s degree candidates were eligible to participate in summer commencement. Additionally, eight students received their doctoral degrees.

The College of Health Science had the largest group of master’s candidates with 93. The Bonnie G. Metcalf School of Education had the second largest group with 63 candidates. Additionally, the Online and Professional division had 177 candidates for graduation throughout its various master’s programs.

The College of Nursing held its hooding ceremony Aug. 19 at Magnolia Church in Riverside. Dr. Juliann Perdue, professor of nursing, encouraged graduates to use their training to change lives for the better.

“You can change your patient’s life in a moment, with a touch or using evidence-based practice. You have the tools and you’ve already used them,” Perdue said. “You’ve all been on an incredible journey and you’re just starting a new one, so please believe in yourself and in the Lord.”

Ciara Thomas, who is already working as a nurse, will earn her Master of Science in Nursing degree.

“The faculty have shaped me to be a great, compassionate nurse,” Thomas said. “They taught me how to come alongside my patients and be with them during their time of need.”

 

Family Updates

Amber Andrade, assistant registrar-transcripts & records for Online and Professional Studies, published an article in the College and University journal (August 2019). It was titled TES-ting the Waters of Transfer Technology.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Melissa Wigginton, associate professor of health science, presented during an American Public Health Association webinar on April 11. She spoke on the topic of Physical Activity and Health.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Ed Garrett, associate professor of kinesiology for Online and Professional Studies, presented at a Naval ROTC program at Coronado, California, on Aug. 1. His topic was Leading the future: Using sport psychology to develop team cohesion and dynamics that impact.

 

 

 

 

Stacy Meyer, adjunct professor of education, trained village preschool teachers and staff in Malawi, Africa, on Aug. 7-21. The training—on best practices in teaching—was the initial kick off to a pilot program called Building Understanding in Literacy Development.

 

 

 

Daniel Rodriguez, simulation technician for the College of Nursing, presented a poster at the SimGhosts USA (The Gathering of Healthcare Simulation Technology Specialists) in Miami, Florida, on July 30-Aug. 2. The title was Integrating Simple Solution with EHR Tutor Charting and Medications in High-Fidelity Simulation. Austin Hulen, technology and data management coordinator for the College of Nursing, also attended the event.

 

 

 

Robyn Glessner, adjunct professor of political science, became a Fellow of the Claremont Center for Engagement with Primary Sources on Aug. 1. She is working on the Council on Library and Information Resources Water Project to preserve and digitize historical documents related to Southern California, Nevada and Arizona water engineering projects including the Hoover Dam. The document series is held at the National Archives and Records Administration at Riverside, where she has completed one year of volunteer service in archival processing.

 

 

Dr. Melissa Croteau, professor of film studies, presented a guest lecture at the Shakespeare Summer School at the University of Verona, Italy, on July 4. The title was called Guns, Rasa, and Roses: Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Ram-Leela (2013) and the “Desi” Romeo and Juliet. She also presented at the European Shakespeare Research Association conference in Rome on July 9. The title of the paper was “Art thou not, fatal vision, sensible / To feeling as to sight?”: Bollywood, Shakespeare, and the Crossing of Emotional and Generic Boundaries in Vishal Bhardwaj’s Maqbool and Omkara. Additionally, she was a co-convenor of the seminar Shakespearean Geographies on Screen.

 

 

Dr. Greg Cochran, professor of theology, had a chapter published in the book Distinguishing the Church. The chapter is titled Persecution, Discipline, and Rewards in Ecclesiological Perspective. Additionally, he had an article published with Crossway titled Help! I don’t know how to bring my faith to work.

 

 

 

Kristi Lippire, associate professor of visual art, spent the month of April during her sabbatical as an artist-in-residence at the Center of Creative Industries, Fabrika Projekt in Moscow. It was a research-based residency to live in a Soviet-era paper factory to do in-person research of constructivist artworks and structures. Lippire also visited the Tretyakov gallery of Moscow, the Pushkin Museums, the Garage Museum, the Moscow Museum of Art, Melnikov House and the Zuev Workers Club.

 

 

 

Dr. Mary Crist, professor of education for Online and Professional Studies, was honored for 27 years of service at CBU on Aug. 15. Crist’s academic achievement included serving as dean of the Dr. Bonnie G. Metcalf School of Education, 2001-2012; receiving the Distinguished Professor of the Year in 2000; and impacting education, early childhood, and special education programs through course design initiatives. Crist will serve as adjunct professor of education for OPS and in a ministry position serving Native American populations.

 

 

Personnel Updates

 

In this issue…

• Current News
• Family Updates
• Personnel Updates

Current News

CBU team competes in physician assistants challenge bowl

Students in the physician assistant studies graduate program at California Baptist University had a strong showing at the Physician Assistants Student Medical Challenge Bowl on Aug 10. A team of three students made it to the semifinals.

In the first round, CBU beat University of Pacific, 30 to 0, which advanced the team to the semifinals. The CBU team consisted of Ariel Bryant, Bryan Curtis and Jonathan Edens, with several alternates.

Teams had to answer questions pertaining to their field of study, in a fast-paced competitive environment. Teams scored 10 points for each correct answer and lost 10 points for each incorrect one. In addition, they had to take into account the pressure of the “buzzer system,” which a team could “buzz” in to answer a question before it was even finished being read. CBU had won the event the previous two years.

“A lot of what we’re doing is rapid recall. The answers are really quick,” Edens said.

The students had been preparing for the event since May. The team went through a physician assistants’ textbook, chapter by chapter, and Edens made flashcards to help the group prepare and compete.

Meanwhile, the team had also been busy with clinical rotations. Also, the bowl event came during finals.

“It’s pretty amazing that they committed to doing the bowl,” said Mary Ann Stahovich, assistant professor of physician assistant studies. “It’s coming at an extremely busy time. The fact that they each chose to do this is quite remarkable.”

 

Lancers cheer begins defense of its 7 national championships

The Lancers cheer squad kicked off its 2019-20 season with a successful placing at the National Cheerleaders Association (NCA)/USA Collegiate Camp held in Las Vegas, Nevada, from Aug. 1-3. The Lancers secured a first-place finish in the Game Day Run-Off and All-Girl Rally Routine events. Additionally, CBU finished second with 149 points, only three off the lead, in the Best All-Around event.

Twenty Lancers grabbed All-American titles at the camp. The strong showing for the Lancers earned them a Gold Paid Bid to the NCA National Championships and a Full Paid Bid to the USA Collegiate Championships.

“This is a great start to the 2019-2020 season,” said Olivia Miller, assistant cheer coach at CBU. “Pulling together two competition-ready routines in such a short amount of time is always a challenge, but the work was definitely worth it. The skill and dedication of this new team is exciting, and the entire coaching staff is looking forward to a great year with these athletes.”

The cheer team is in contention for its eighth consecutive NCA Cheer Championship. This past year, the Lancer secured its inaugural win as a D-1 program. The Lancers remain undefeated in the NCA since 2013.

 

CBU students practice Global Health Engagement overseas

Justin Dennis had some hesitation about traveling abroad to practice health care over the summer. He put his worries aside, however, and signed up for the Global Health Engagement (GHE) program at California Baptist University.

Ultimately, serving in East Africa through GHE became an enlightening experience for him.

“I learned a great deal about physical therapy, athletic training and manual therapy,” said Dennis, a kinesiology senior at CBU. “More importantly though, I learned how to incorporate my love for Jesus into my daily life. I also learned how privileged of a life we live in America, but we can use this privilege to do amazing things in other parts of the world.”

This summer the College of Health Science at CBU sent out several teams to serve in a variety of health care roles in China, Uganda and East Africa. The trips—part of the GHE program —provide students the opportunity to serve in health care roles abroad while gaining course credits.

Lisa Friesen, assistant professor of athletic training, co-led a team to East Africa. The students served in a hospital providing evaluation and rehabilitation for its patients.

“This experience is an incredible way for students to connect their career goals to what God is doing globally,” Friesen said. “It also exposes students to see practically how to engage in integrating faith into the health care setting.”

Dr. William Boyer, assistant professor of kinesiology, co-led a team to China. Boyer said the trip created opportunities for students to become more culturally sensitive in their service.

“This allows students to have a clinical experience in a setting outside of the U.S., forcing them to think critically, adapt their instruction to the culture around them, and also to potentially influence the next steps their take in their careers,” Boyer said.

CBU students in the China group worked in a hospital. They performed activities including developing nutrition and exercise programming, and creating an exercise prescription and testing program for the cardiac rehabilitation center.

Connor Pacharis, a business administration senior, said his service in China was a rewarding experience.

“The opportunity to go overseas and observe a hospital melded my entire CBU education perfectly into one trip: business, foreign culture and health science,” Pacharis said.

 

Family Updates

Tracey Diaz, program advisor/clinical coordinator for the Dr. Bonnie G. Metcalf School of Education, was named employee of the month for August. Her nomination included the following statements: “Tracey goes above and beyond in serving our student, faculty and K-12 community. Tracey is our liaison between CBU and many K-12 partners. She represents CBU with professionalism and grace.”

 

 

 

 

Dr. Andrea Scott, dean of the Dr. Robert K. Jabs School of Business, attended the Lausanne Movement’s Global Workplace Forum held in Manila, Philippines, June 25-29. She served as a coach and judge for new social enterprise opportunities.

 

 

 

Dr. Kristin Mauldin, assistant professor of psychology, and Dr. Ed Garrett, associate professor of kinesiology for Online and Professional Studies, received a Community Outreach Grant from the Association for Applied Sport Psychology. The grant will provide funding for a partnership with the Riverside Unified School District Coaches Clinic. Instructors and students in the Master of Science Sport and Performance Psychology program will organize and lead two clinics.

 

 

Dr. Juliann Perdue, professor of nursing, was the keynote speaker at the World Congress on Nursing and Healthcare, in Rome, Italy, on July 15. The title of her presentation was Innovative Prelicensure Curriculum Using Animal-Assisted Interventions.

 

 

 

Dr. Fred Pontius, professor of civil engineering and construction management, spoke to the Department of Environmental Engineering at Chung Yuan Christian University (CYCU), in Taoyuan City, Taiwan, on July 9. His topic was Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and Perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) as Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) in the Environment. He also presented at the CYCU International Industrial/Academic Leadership Experience held July 1-19. He spoke on population growth, assessing climate changes, and PFOA/PFOS contamination. His wife, Nancy Pontius, was a guest speaker at a CYCU class on how to teach extensive reading on May 29. She also spoke on cultural differences at the 2019 English Camp on 360 Degree Leadership Principles and Characters and was a small group leader during a week of the camp, July 2-12.

 

 

Graduate students in the Physician Assistant Studies Program provided a health and STEM outreach to children from the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians at CBU on July 23. Heather Ontiveros, assistant professor of physician assistant studies, supervised and Mary Ann Stahovich, assistant professor of physician assistant studies, organized the event. The CBU students developed health education activities, including hands-on dental care stations to supplement oral hygiene kit donations, and played health trivia with the children.

 

 

 

 

 

Dr. John Marselus, professor of aviation science, Laura Walker, flight instructor II, and four aviation science students attended the EAA Oshkosh air show, the largest in the nation, in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, July 22-28. Two CBU student pilots flew one of the new aircraft to the event and back to showcase the new fleet. The department also had two booths at the show. One in the International Association of Missionary Aviation area showed CBU as a school that offers training in missionary aviation. The other booth, in one of the main display buildings, showcased the commercial, military, missionary, unmanned aerial system, dispatch and aviation management programs.

 

Dr. Keanon Alderson, professor of management, had research published in the Journal of Family Business Management (Vol. 9, No. 2, 2019). It was titled Contributions and Constraints to Continuity in Mexican-American Family Firms. Harvard Business Publishing is also distributing four chapters of his book Understanding the Family Business paired with case studies.

 

 

 

Dr. Erin Kirk, adjunct professor of piano, was elected as national council representative of the Pacific-Southwest Chapter of the American Musicological Society on July 3. The term is for three years.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Tim Sisemore, professor of psychology, was a panelist at a meeting sponsored by Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration and the Department of Health and Human Services’ Partnership Center in Washington, D.C., on July 24-25. The panel examined how to promote more awareness of the importance of religion and spirituality as a form of diversity.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Kendra Flores-Carter, assistant professor of social work, became a perinatal mental health certified faculty member with Postpartum Support International in June. She can now provide perinatal mental health training to doctors, nurses and healthcare providers. She also presented several workshops in Belize in July, in partnership with Children First and Last Belize; Belize Brain Awareness Society; Belize Police Department; Belize National Association of Social Workers; and the University of Belize. The workshops were on child abuse prevention, vicarious trauma, mental health and wellness.

 

 

Dr. Jacqueline Gustafson, dean of the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Jennifer Costello, assistant professor of social work, and Dr. Antonio Mejico, assistant professor of social work, presented at the CIC Fostering Resilience through Intergenerational Connections Conference in Washington, D.C., on July 29-31. They presented the Legacy Project, a research endeavor supported by the Council of Independent Colleges and AARP, to immerse undergraduate students with senior citizens in the historic Casa Blanca neighborhood.

 

 

Dr. Sean Sullivan, professor of kinesiology, had an article published in the book Christianity and Social Scientific Perspectives on Sport (Routledge, 2019). The article was titled Single, separate or unified? Exploring Christian academicians’ views of the body, sport and religious experience.

 

 

 

Dr. Amanie Abdelmessih, professor of mechanical engineering, served as a track organizer at the Heat Transfer Conference held by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers and the American Institute of Chemical Engineers, in Bellevue, Washington, July 15-18. Abdelmessih was one of the main conference organizers and served as a track organizer for the K-16 Committee’s Track (Heat Transfer in Electronic Equipment). She was awarded a certificate of appreciation for her services as track organizer, her sixth certificate since she first served in 2003. During the conference, she also chaired two sessions: Heat Transfer Equipment and Heat Sinks and Capillary Flow, and co-organized a panel, Lifecycle of industrial heat exchangers: Concept to Trouble-shooting. Additionally, the International Journal of Heat and Mass Transfer awarded Abdelmessih a certificate of reviewing in January.

 

Dr. Joshua Knabb, associate professor of psychology, conducted training for Army chaplains at the Fort Hood Chaplain Family Life Training Center in Texas on July 18-19. The training was titled Faith-Based Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. Additionally, he presented in two symposiums at the American Psychological Association’s Annual Convention in Chicago on Aug. 8-11. They were titled A Christian-sensitive approach to examining spirituality, mental well-being and communion with God and Communion with God in Christian psychotherapy.

 

 

Dr. Carol Minton-Ryan, professor of sociology, Mary Sorola, adjunct professor of ASL for Online and Professional Studies, and CBU graduates Jackson Brown and Pamela Perez had an article published in the Journal of the Linguistics Association of Southern African Development Community Universities (July 9, 2019). The title was A Lexicostatistical Study: Phonological Similarity between American and Malawi Sign Languages.

 

 

 

California Baptist University hosted the inaugural International Youth Leadership Conference and Speech Contest on July 15-17. It was sponsored by a number of Chinese American nonprofit organizations that seek to help young people develop in good leadership. The 42 middle and high school students who participated came from California, other states and China and Spain.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Gayne Anacker, professor of philosophy, presented three papers this summer. He presented Nursing Ethics, Ethical Theory, and Virtue Ethics at the American Scientific Affiliation 2019 Annual Meeting in Wheaton, Illinois, on July 20. He also presented at the 2019 Apologetics Series: Faith Engaging Ideas at the C.S. Lewis Study Center in Northfield, Massachusetts, on July 26-27. The titles of the papers were Francis Schaeffer: The Heart of His Apologetics and Atheism to Idealism: Two Early Stages in C.S. Lewis’ Spiritual Journey.

 

 

Dr. Douglas Wallace, associate professor of sociology, presented a paper at the International Round Table Symposium at Harris Manchester College of Oxford University on July 20. The title of the paper, co-written with Dr. Ana Gamez, associate professor of psychology, was Perceptions about Fatherhood Involvement in College Students.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Linda-Marie Sundstrom, associate professor of public administration for Online and Professional Studies, and Dr. Stephen Brown, associate professor of behavioral sciences, published an article in PA (Public Administration) Times (Aug. 5, 2019). The article is titled Two Minutes Before Class.

 

 

 

Stephen Morris, adjunct professor of education, was the keynote speaker for the Corona-Norco Unified School District Leadership Symposium on July 30. His talk was titled Don’t Let Fear Win.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Thomas Frederick, professor of psychology, and Dr. Scott Dunbar, associate professor of human resource management, both for Online and Professional Studies, published a book. It was titled A Christian Approach to Work and Family Burnout (Lexington Books, August 2019).

 

 

 

 

Daniel Akers, senior web services manager for Marketing and Communication, and his wife, Vanessa, welcomed a daughter on July 2. Ariel Vanessa Akers weighed 8 pounds, 8 ounces and measured 20.5 inches in length.

 

 

 

 

Personnel Updates

 

In this issue…

• Current News
• Family Updates
• Personnel Updates

Current News

CBU students compete in Formula SAE races

A team of 10 aspiring engineers from California Baptist University put their Formula car to the test at the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) International Competition held in Lincoln, Nebraska, in June.

The CBU crew finished 31st in the internal combustion class preliminary results. Additionally, the car finished the endurance event for the first time, which requires a vehicle to travel 15 laps around a track for an overall distance of approximately 14 miles.

Josh Bigley, a mechanical engineering junior at CBU, was one of the four drivers.

“It was incredible to see our car finish the endurance race,” Bigley said. “Before a single part of our car was designed, our goal was to finish the endurance race, and it really paid off to see it happen. I don’t think I have ever seen the team as happy as we were that day.”

The team competed against 76 other entries. The competition included presentations on cost and design as well as dynamic events such as acceleration and autocross.

Bigley was also the design lead for the car’s chassis and electronics sections.

“Working on electronics taught me to be extremely careful and thorough. It really showed me the importance of doing something right the first time,” Bigley said.

Katie Mast, a mechanical engineering junior, has been part of the SAE student club at CBU since her freshman year.  This past year, she was the ergonomics lead, which included designing the steering, brakes, head rest, seat and gear shifter.

“The learning curve I went through for this year was crazy,” Mast said. “Working on the car, you learn so much. Learning about bolts and what’s needed and learning to make things in a way that’s easy to build. You don’t learn that in class, you learn that by doing.”

“We placed above some teams that have been around 10, 15 years and this is our third car,” Mast said. “That makes me really excited to see where it’s going to go. If we’re here now, where can we go from this?”

Dr. Daniel Clark, assistant professor of aerospace, industrial and mechanical engineering and SAE advisor, said the competition was the culmination of thousands of hours spent designing, fabricating, tuning, testing and competing.

“This was an exceptional educational experience for the CBU students who competed and learned from experts in the automotive industry while sharing their experiences with other teams,” Clark said. “Additionally, the design judges complimented the CBU students on their respectfulness, character and excellent teamwork skills.”

 

Air Force JROTC cadets fly high at CBU Flight School training

Mathew Davis, a high school senior from Georgia, soared over Lake Matthews in Riverside as he piloted a Piper Archer. The day was perfect for flying. The temperature was in the high 90s and there were clear skies with little to no turbulence. An aviation science flight instructor from California Baptist University was seated in the co-pilot position, instructing and encouraging him along his flight path.

“Flying a new Piper aircraft was amazing,” Davis said. “I’ve flown small planes before but nothing like this back home.”

Thanks to a U.S. Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (AFJROTC) Flight Academy, in partnership with California Baptist University, Davis will acquire 40 hours of flight time and college credit.

The U.S. Air Force offers scholarship opportunities for up to 250 students who participate in their high school AFJROTC chapter to participate in a Flight Academy at various universities over the summer. Twelve cadets, from May 26 through July 22, fulfilled their training at the CBU Aviation Science’s Flight Operations Center located at the Riverside Municipal Airport.

“I’ve enjoyed the instruction I received at CBU,” Davis said. “They have been encouraging this whole time and as a result my confidence has increased in my abilities to fly.”

Dr. John Marselus, chair of the department of aviation science at CBU, said the partnership with the AFJROTC Flight Academy was formed on shared values.

“We are proud to help with the stated goal of AFJROTC of producing good citizens and motivating young men and women to become professional aviators,” Marselus said. “This initiative is one of a kind and hopefully will help toward fulfilling the critical shortage of aviators, not only in the United States but throughout the world over the next couple of decades. There has never been a better time to be involved in aviation as a career.”

 

CBU summer engineering course offers fun challenges

Pieces of broken, uncooked spaghetti noodles lay on the floor in the Dennis and Carol Troesh Engineering Building, remnants of a shattered bridge. Despite the mess, a team of high schoolers were amazed the bridge out-performed expectations.

“I did not think our bridge would hold that much,” said James Dingle, a senior at Los Osos High School in Rancho Cucamonga, California. His team’s bridge held 20 pounds but broke apart at 25.

“Engineering is super detail-oriented. One small thing can mess up the entire project. You have to be attentive to detail and careful with everything you do,” Dingle said.

Dingle was participating in Engineering Innovation, a four-week summer course developed by Johns Hopkins University, being offered at 15 sites nationwide. Sixteen high school students attended the program at CBU’s Gordon and Jill Bourns College of Engineering, June 24-July 19.

The course covered several areas of engineering, including chemical, electrical/computer, mechanical and civil. The program included lectures and hands-on projects.

Dr. Mario Oyanader, professor of chemical and biomolecular engineering, said the program exposes the students to various engineering disciplines.

“Having that hands-on experience gives you an idea of what you want to do five years down the road,” Oyanader said.

The course culminated with a spaghetti bridge contest. Students were tasked to use only dry spaghetti and epoxy glue to build a bridge. To test the bridges’ resilience, weight is added to the bridges until they shatter.

The exercise teaches students about the strength of materials and teamwork, Oyanader said.

“Working as a team is what they will encounter in real life,” Oyanader said. “Designing a building is not a one-person job. It’s many people working together.”

Evelin Zaragoza, a senior at Norte Vista High School in Riverside, is interested in electrical engineering. She enjoyed working on a team.

“You get to work with different people who see things a different way and they work the problems in a different way,” Zaragoza said.

Daniel Kari (’14), a biology teacher at Woodcrest Christian High School in Riverside, served as a teaching fellow with the program. Learning how to make the lessons hands-on has been valuable, Kari said.

“As a high school teacher, we have a curriculum we have to get through,” Kari said. “The program helps teachers figure out how to make the class more application-focused. How can I move from lecture to activities quickly? That’s what keeps students engaged the most.”

 

Graduate students provide mentors for anti-bullying program

On July 1, 2019, the HERO program received good news. It had secured a $20,000 Kaiser Foundation Hospital grant to help continue its anti-bullying program for high school students in Riverside.

For Dr. Kristin Mauldin, director of the Master of Science Sport and Performance Psychology program at California Baptist University, the news came as a testament to the positive work CBU students had been conducting in support of the HERO program during the past academic year.

In the summer of 2018, Lynda Bailey, executive director of the Riverside Medical Clinic Charitable Foundation, approached Mauldin with the opportunity to facilitate portions of the HERO program, a brainchild of the foundation. Mauldin believed that her students could benefit from the program.

“One of the strengths of this program is that it takes individuals who can reach these high school students, has them teach them not only the subject matter but how to inspire their peers, then works with them as they implement this new knowledge,” said Mauldin, who oversees the master’s students participation in the program. “Thus, it really does teach the students how to ‘fish,’ not just giving them the ‘fish.’”

“The ultimate goal of this opportunity is to create a long-term program in these schools that will become self-reliant and passed down from student to student, year-after-year,” Mauldin said.

Several CBU graduate students served as mentors at John W. North High School and Ramona High School, both in Riverside, during the past academic year. The students worked with high school counselors to create events, conferences and presentations that sought to prevent suicidal ideation and bullying.

Savannah Honarbakht, a Master of Science Sport and Performance Psychology student at CBU, said her classroom training helped in her mentor role.

“I was able to apply a lot from my training at CBU into this community outreach program,” Honarbakht said. “At North High School, our students experienced an untimely loss of one of their close classmates to gang violence. As mentors, we were able to be there for them and help them create a presentation on self-awareness to present to their peers so if they were to ever find themselves in a similar situation, they could be vigilant and avoid any unsafe situations.”

“Seeing their passion behind that presentation and how much they appreciated our helping hand within that project, made me really realize how much those kids relied on us as mentors,” Honarbakht said.

Jasmine Joann Johnson, who is scheduled to graduate during summer commencement at CBU, said she was thankful for the opportunity CBU provided in the community.

“I have always had a huge heart for helping others. I could not have discovered this program at any better time,” Johnson said.  “I am very grateful to be a part of this program and all of the education, opportunities, memories and friends I have made along this journey. None of this would have been possible without Dr. Mauldin and the people that helped create and launch this program.”

 

CAVAD Academies allow high schoolers to explore creativity

Several high school students walked around Harden Square at California Baptist University, photographing the blooming rose bushes and the distinctive arches of the James Building. They were learning how to configure a camera’s depth of field option.

The College of Architecture, Visual Arts and Design (CAVAD) hosted nearly 40 high school students who received creative training at the CAVAD Summer Academies during July 8-12. The high schoolers could enroll in one of five options: architecture, film, photography, graphic design and fine art.

Miguel Esparza, a senior at Patriot High School in Jurupa Valley, California, was one of the students who attended the weeklong photo session.

“I wanted to improve my photography and learn how to think outside of the box while also using the technical side to help me get that end result,” Esparza said. “We’ve learned a lot on the technical side, how to control your camera, know how your camera operates. It’s essentially like your partner so you have to know how it works.”

Throughout the camp, students worked with CBU faculty, learning techniques in their field of interest.

Christopher Kern, assistant professor of photography, taught the students the technical and creative aspects of photography.

“It’s all hands-on and practical. I want them to practice,” Kern said. “Yesterday I talked. Now we’re applying it all and fumbling and figuring it out. There is a very academic approach to what we went through yesterday so that they’re empowered to use this tool to create or document.”

Students enrolled in the film session worked on elements needed to create a film throughout the week. The students planned a storyline for a psychological thriller, created a set and then learned about lighting and camera shots.

Katherine Tucker, a sophomore at Sky Mountain Charter School, an online school, said the process of creating a film was fun.

“I really love film. I wanted to learn more about if this is something I want to go into,” Tucker said. “I love how you can piece together all these different pieces of the puzzle and together it makes a story that makes you feel like you’re actually there.”

Mark Roberson, dean of CAVAD, said the Summer Academies serve both as a recruiting tool and community outreach.

“We really hope that giving students real exposure to these disciplines before they officially decide on a college major is a big step toward them being able to ‘Live Their Purpose.’ We want to help them make informed decisions about their future and their lives by letting them experience these pursuits firsthand,” Roberson said.  “These students get a real idea of what these pursuits will look like in college and beyond.”

 

Family Updates

Dr. Joshua Knabb, associate professor of psychology, Dr. Veola Vazquez, professor of psychology, and Dr. Robert Pate, associate professor of psychology, published a study in Mental Health, Religion & Culture (June 18, 2019). It was titled Set your minds on things above: shifting from trauma-based ruminations to ruminating on God.

 

 

 

Dr. Greg Bowden, professor of education, Dr. Cammy Purper, associate professor of education, and Dr. Jeanette Guignard, associate professor of organizational leadership, all for Online and Professional Studies, gave a presentation at the 19^th Annual Online Teaching Conference in Anaheim on June 18. It was titled Effective Video Feedback Strategies for Online Faculty.

 

 

 

Stephanie Fletcher, adjunct professor of education, was interviewed on The Radical Therapist podcast. The podcast episode, Undercover Anti-Bullying Teams, looked at a restorative justice intervention for bullying behaviors within the San Bernardino City Unified School District.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Joshua Knabb, associate professor of psychology, presented at the Sandals Church Professional Network Breakfast and Learning Event in Riverside on June 13. The title of his presentation was The Role of Compassion in Combating Shame-Proneness.

 

 

 

Dr. Joe Way, director of multimedia services for information technology services, had an article in the Church Production Magazine (July/August 2019). It was titled Four Steps to Become a Biblical People Person.

 

 

 

 

Dr. Erin Smith, associate professor of psychology, was selected to serve as a science advisor for the American Association for the Advancement of Science’s Science in Seminaries program. She will serve for 18 months.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sam Welbaum, assistant professor of Christian studies for Online and Professional Studies, presented a paper at the 36th Annual International Social Philosophy Conference in San Francisco on July 11-13. The title of the paper was Always Making, Never Returning: Creed Bratton and Billy Joel as Windows into Dasein’s Experience of Homesickness.

 

 

 

The Master of Social Work program hosted a student social on July 10 for the students who are starting the program this fall. The graduate students had the opportunity to meet their peers and some of the faculty.

 

 

 

Dr. Jeff Cate, professor of New Testament, presented a paper in the Working with Biblical Manuscripts session of the International Meeting of the Society of Biblical Literature in Rome, Italy, on July 4. The paper was titled A Long Time Ago in a Galilee Far, Far Away: Nazareth and Nazarene in the Gospel of Mark.

 

 

 

Dr. Doug Barnett, adjunct professor of management for Online and Professional Studies, was a group discussion leader for the Lausanne Committee for World Evangelization’s Global Workplace Forum held in Manila, Philippines, June 25-29.

 

 

 

 

 

Dr. Jim Buchholz, professor of mathematics and physics, was recently elected as a fellow to the American Scientific Affiliation (ASA). The ASA is as an international network of Christians in the sciences.

 

 

 

 

Aaron Swartz, the son of Rod Swartz, adjunct professor for marketing for Online and Professional Studies, graduated from the U.S. Air Force basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas, on July 12.

 

 

 

 

Personnel Updates