gateway magazine fall/winter '12

also inside04 CAMPUS HAPPENINGS10 MISSION TRIPS18 ALUMNI UPDATES...AND MUCH MORE

simps

on u

nive

rsity

| fa

ll/w

inte

r ‘12

SERVING THROUGH THE SCIENCES

Defining Moments

Certain events in the history of an educational institution stand out in bold relief against normal day-to-day activities. There are defining moments that help to shape the mission and future direction of a university. One such defining moment for Simpson University was the launch of our four-year bachelor of science in nursing degree in January 2011. This was a follow-up to our popular RN-BSN Track, offered through the School of Continuing Studies (ASPIRE degree-completion program) since 2007. These new academic initiatives were a response to a demand for quality nursing education in Northern California. However, these new programs also allow us to carry out our mission more effectively as our students and graduates influence “the world through leadership, scholarship, and service.” The successful launch of these educational initiatives in our School of Nursing will serve as landmark events in the history of Simpson University as we continue to be a Gateway to World Service.

Another defining moment took place on Oct. 22, when our Board of Trustees granted their approval for the university to move forward with the construction of a 30,000-square-foot, $5.5 million Science and Nursing Building. While there is still a great deal of work to be done in working with the architect on detailed drawings, securing necessary approvals from the zoning commission of the city of Redding, and raising additional money through fund development, it is our hope to begin construction in early summer, with the building fully operative by the fall of 2014.

Completion of the Science and Nursing Building will serve the university and the surrounding community. The facility will allow us to train a greater number of baccalaureate-prepared nurses and provide professional training for other healthcare agencies in the local community. It will also allow for the development of other new healthcare programs and complete the requirements for national nursing accreditation.

In the meantime, our nursing students are meeting in a modular building that has been converted into classrooms and lab space, where they are able to work with state-of-the-art simulated manikins. Students also work with real-life patients through numerous clinical partnerships with regional hospitals and medical facilities. Many of our nursing students also participate in cross-cultural ministries that allow them to use their nursing skills, particularly at a medical clinic in Mexicali, Mexico.

This new facility will also address the increasing space needs of our biology program and will allow us to expand our science offerings in areas such as chemistry and physics, benefiting an entirely new population of students. Our science classrooms, housed in the LaBaume-Rudat Hall, will be relocated to the new building.

If it sounds like I am enthused about these latest developments at Simpson University related to students, programs, and facilities, you are correct. These are exciting times and defining moments at Simpson University. I believe this issue of the Gateway captures this enthusiasm. Enjoy the magazine and share it with others. To God be the glory!

Larry J. McKinney, President

Read the president’s monthly blog at: blogs.simpsonu.edu/president.

02 GATEWAY Fall/Winter 2012

features10 Student Missions

12 Hands and Feet

15 B.S.N. Class of 2013

17 Ways to Support Nursing

22 Employee Recognitions

23 Student Focus: Faraway Service

departments04 Happenings

06 Sports Wrap

08 Academic Activities

18 Alumni Updates

For a complete listing of Simpson University’s memberships, visit simpsonu.edu/memberships.

simpson university vol. 24 no. 2 | fall/win ‘12

Gateway Editor: Candace Brown Contributing Writer: Elise Wilson Photography: Ryan Belong, Jessica Law, Tessa Ratner, Renae TolbertCreative Design: Mark Buschgens and Jimi BonogofskyDirector of Marketing & Communications: Mark WoodDirector of University Relations: Matt Kluttz / [email protected] of Advancement: Beth Spencer / [email protected]

The Gateway is a nonprofit magazine published twice annually for alumni and friends of Simpson University, a university of The Christian and Missionary Alliance.

SIMPSON UNIVERSITY: 2211 College View Drive / Redding, CA 96003(530) 224-5600 / www.simpsonu.edu / www.facebook.com/simpsonu

If you do not wish to receive the Gateway or have an address change, please call 1-800-598-2239 or email [email protected].

SIMPSON UNIVERSITY EXECUTIVE ADMINISTRATIONPresident: Larry J. McKinney, Ed.D.Interim Provost: Robin K. Dummer, Ed.D.Executive Vice President: Bradley E. Williams, M.B.A.Vice President for Enrollment Management: Herb Tolbert, Ed.D.Vice President for Advancement: Gordon B. Flinn, M.B.A.Vice President for Student Development: Richard W. Brown, D.Min.Chancellor: James M. Grant, Ph.D.

ON THE COVER: Simpson

University’s inaugural class

of Bachelor of Science in

Nursing students, who will graduate

in April, stand at the future site of the new Science

and Nursing Building.

Meet class members on

p. 15.

Dr. Larry McKinney and his wife, Debbie, outside the Francis Grubbs Learning Center.

TABLE OFcontents

www.simpsonu.edu / 1-888-9-SIMPSON 03

SIMPSONhappenings

Construction to start on Science and Nursing BuildingSIMPSON UNIVERSITY’S BOARD OF TRUSTEES gave approval in mid-October for construction to start this spring or summer on a long-awaited, much-anticipated Science and Nursing Building. The estimated $5.5 million, 30,000-square-foot, two-story building will include patient simulation zones, clinical skills labs, classrooms and offices, and specialized areas for physics, microbiology, genetics, chemistry, organismal studies, and anatomy.

Classes would start in the new facility by fall 2014.“This is a major step forward for the

university in terms of advancing our science and nursing programs,” said President Larry McKinney. “It fits clearly with our mission and long-range vision and will help us serve our students more effectively.”

Fundraising efforts have raised about $2.8 million, and the university will continue to pursue donations as the building is constructed.

“There’s recognition that the nursing program is a vital part of the curricula we offer,” said board chair Betty Dean, former president of Butte College. “It addresses community and student need. We have been pursuing how we might be able to proceed with a facility that would accommodate program needs.”

Simpson University began expanding its science curriculum in 2007, offering a biology major. That same year, it launched a program for registered nurses wanting to obtain a bachelor of science in nursing. The RN-BSN Track is a 16-month program

offered through the School of Continuing Studies.A full four-year BSN began in January 2011 in the traditional

undergraduate program. The first class of 20 students will graduate in April. Interest in the program has skyrocketed, with 80 students in the nursing program this year, said Jan Dinkel, dean of Simpson’s School of Nursing. She is excited about what the building will mean to nursing education in the north state. “The building will provide the space necessary to increase the number of students

who can be admitted to the BSN program and can pursue higher education locally,” she said. “The space will also allow for the development of other professional healthcare higher-education programs, such as a master’s in nursing.”

The new facility will also be a boost to the university’s biology program, which includes almost 40 students this fall.

“The science faculty has waited over 20 years for this building, and we are very pleased with the plans,” said Pam Van der Werff, chair of the Division of Science and Math. “This addition to our campus will allow us to further develop our growing biology program, enabling us to emphasize student-faculty research opportunities and better serve the greater Simpson campus.”

Dean said the building represents a unique opportunity for Simpson, which has traditionally been a liberal arts Christian university. “It’s taking Simpson in a new direction and providing opportunities to consider other areas that might be of significance in meeting student and community needs,” she said.

An artist’s rendering of the future Science and Nursing Building

More about nursingp.12 Origins of Nursing at Simpsonp.15 Meet the first BSN classp.16 RN-BSN Track newsp.17 Ways to Give

Read how you can partner with this project at simpsonu.edu/snbuilding.04 GATEWAY Fall/Winter 2012

CLASS OF 2016 ARRIVES

History Department hosts Civil War Student Day ABRAHAM LINCOLN MADE AN APPEARANCE, as did Union and Confederate soldiers, a woman in hoop skirt and sunbonnet, a dog and a horse. An officer barked marching orders to “soldiers,” while another fired his musket into the air.

About 750 eighth-graders from throughout Shasta County met these and other characters Oct. 11 during Civil War Student Day, a partnership between Simpson University’s History Department and the Reenactors of the American Civil War.

The “living history” demonstration was divided into stations on the lawn outside the Grubbs Center, and school groups rotated through during two-hour morning and afternoon sessions. They learned about Civil War-era topics such as Union and Confederate cavalries, weapons, uniforms, dogs of the war, causes of the war, and 19th-century life.

Students were able to engage with costumed reenactors, explore camp life, handle artifacts, watch artillery demonstrations, and learn about battlefield tactics. At one station, an “officer” instructed them how to stand at attention and march in formation.

The event, the first of its kind put on by the History Department, was designed to supplement the eighth-grade social studies curriculum and educate students about the Civil War period.

“The History Department looks for ways we can promote history education in our community,” said Dr. John Ayabe,

assistant professor of history. “By bringing the reenactors and eighth-grade students together on our campus, we thought this event would be a great way to support the teachers of Shasta County. I think it’s part of what we do as a university for our local community.”

Welcoming our new studentsA university-wide Day of Prayer on Aug. 16 kicked off a new academic

year on campus. Total fall enrollment was 1,301, with 754 in the traditional

undergraduate program, 281 in the School of Continuing Studies, and the rest

in master’s or teaching credential programs. Welcome, class of 2016!An artist’s rendering of the future Science and Nursing Building

Follow Simpson University news as it happens at simpsonu.edu/news.www.simpsonu.edu / 1-888-9-SIMPSON 05

Student volunteers launch ‘Way of Service’ SIMPSON’S YEARLY DAY OF SERVICE is expanding its reach this year, with student teams rallying to meet immediate, practical needs in the local community.

“We are hoping to go from a day of service focus to a ‘way of service’ as a campus,” said Jon Thompson, coordinator of student outreach.

During the eighth annual Day of Service on Sept. 25, more than 100 students volunteered to clean, paint, landscape, weed and do other work at eight locations in Redding and Anderson. Shasta County Supervisor Les Baugh joined students working at the Anderson Community Garden.

“Their work will help provide fresh, nutritious produce to those most in need in our community,” he said. “I asked students why they would show up to assist people they don’t even know. Their answer: ‘To be the hands of Christ.’ It just doesn’t get better than that.”

Since that weekend, teams of students have helped at nearly a dozen locations (as of press time), including weeding and mulching at the MLK Jr. Center in downtown Redding and serving meals to the homeless. They’ve also been joined by visiting high school students and their parents, Jon said.

Student outreach intern Hannah Dewater, 20, a junior General Ministries major, works with Jon to spread the word about opportunities to help.

“You don’t have to have a lot of time or resources,” Hannah said. “God will use what you have.”

FALL sports wrapWOMEN’S VOLLEYBALL: 10-12 overall record and a 6-2 conference record. The Lady Red Hawks lost in the semifinals of the California-Pacific Conference tournament to Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Freshman Audrey Green earned co-Freshman of the Year and first-team honors. Senior Kristen Duren was also named to the conference first team.

MEN’S SOCCER: 6-10-2 overall; 5-2-1 conference. They lost in the first round of the Cal-Pac Tournament to Embry-Riddle. Seniors Jordan Daigre and Tyler Goens and junior Cody Garrison earned second-team conference honors.

WOMEN’S SOCCER: 1-15 overall; 1-7 conference. Their win came against UC Merced on senior day on Oct. 31.

MEN’S WRESTLING: Inaugural season match-ups against Stanford University, California Baptist, Menlo College, and Great Falls University; competed in San Francisco State University 21 and Under Tournament and the Roadrunner Open.

SIMPSONhappenings


IN BRIEF

‘Camp Darfur’ event held on campusSIMPSON UNIVERSITY HOSTED CAMP DARFUR, a traveling refugee camp designed to raise awareness of genocide, on Sept. 25, inviting members of the public, as well as students and staff, to stop by throughout the day.

Camp Darfur has traveled to schools and colleges throughout the country. It features tent exhibits that tell an abbreviated history of genocide: Armenia, the Holocaust, Cambodia, Rwanda, and Darfur.

The camp seeks to educate viewers and give them ideas about how to take action on global human rights issues. It also includes information about new programs that offer hope to victims of the Darfur genocide residing in camps in Chad.

“Keeping victims visible is an important part of the struggle for justice,” said Simpson professor Craig Slane, author of a book about Dietrich Bonhoeffer, a German theologian killed for his opposition to Hitler during the Holocaust. “I’m deeply grateful for movements like Camp Darfur that sacrifice their time and energy to keep the victims of genocide in our sights and mobilize us toward real and lasting solutions.”

Redding-based group Genocide No More—Save Darfur sponsored the event. The day concluded with a lectureship on “Preventing Genocide” by Gabriel Stauring, co-founder of Stop Genocide Now and i-ACT.

“The world has so many different cultures, ethnicities, and religions,” said Dr. Ann Miller, chair of Simpson’s History Department. “We need to be vigilant that innocent people do not become a scapegoat for the hatred of others. The way we do this is to become informed citizens and increase awareness by educating others of the tragedies and genocides of the past.”

For game coverage, player bios and more, visit simpsonu.edu/athletics.

For game coverage, player bios and more, visit simpsonu.edu/athletics.

WOMEN’S CROSS-COUNTRY: Finished third at the California-Pacific Conference Championship meet on Nov. 2. They finished 21st at the NCCAA National meet. Junior Rebekah Studebaker finished 28th overall at the NCCAA Nationals and competed at the NAIA Nationals, as did teammate Jaclyn Van Schooten.

MEN’S CROSS-COUNTRY: Finished third at the Cal-Pac Championship meet. They placed 25th at the NCCAA Nationals. Junior Tony Moore finished 31st at nationals and competed in the NAIA Nationals.

Updated Logo: The Simpson University athletic department revealed an updated logo in August. The new design, which fea-tures a more sleek, refined red hawk, replaces the logo designed in 2004 when the university changed its mascot name from the Vanguard to the Red Hawks. The redesign was a Simpson University inter-departmental initiative guided by recent Marketing and Communications creative design manager Travis Quam.

REDDING COMMUNITY BASEBALL FIELD UPDATE: Since its ground-breaking on May 2, the Redding Community Baseball Field has begun to take shape. Trees have been removed, rough grading undertaken, and a storm-water drainage system has been installed. The field has been prepped for winter, and a construction plan prepared for 2013. Fundraising is still underway to complete this project. Visit simpsonu.edu/letsplayball.

THE HISTORY DEPARTMENT hosted a Constitution Day lecture on Sept. 19 featuring former State Sen. Maurice Johannessen. Johannessen served as a California state senator (1993-2002), secretary of the state

Department of Veterans Affairs, Shasta County supervisor, and Redding City Council member.

Former state senator on campus for Constitution Day

SPIRITUAL FOCUS WEEK, Sept. 19-21, featured guest speaker Rev. Bryan Loritts (pictured). Rev. Loritts is an author, speaker and lead pastor of Fellowship Memphis, a multicultural church in urban Memphis, Tenn. View chapel schedules and listen to services online at simpsonu.edu/chapel.

Special chapel highlights Spiritual Focus

www.simpsonu.edu / 1-888-9-SIMPSON 07www.simpsonu.edu / 1-888-9-SIMPSON 07www.simpsonu.edu / 1-888-9-SIMPSON 07


activities

ACADEMIC

Theology professor returns from semesterlong fellowshipDR. CRAIG SLANE, FRANCES P. OWEN DISTINGUISHED PROFESSOR OF SYSTEMATIC THEOLOGY and author of Bonhoeffer as Martyr: Social Responsibility and Modern Christian Commitment, was one of eight scholars selected for an inaugural research conference at Biola University’s Center for Christian Thought during the spring 2012 semester.

“It was one of the highlights of my professional career,” he said.The Center for Christian Thought is a forum where leading

Christian thinkers from around the world gather ro research and discuss issues of significance to the academy, the church and the

broader culture. The theme of the first semester was “Christian Scholarship for the 21st Century: Prospects and Perils.” (Next up, for 2012-13, is “Neuroscience and the Soul.”)

Visiting Christian philosophers and authors Nicholas Wolterstorff and Alvin Plantinga led a two-week seminar at the start of the four-month semester on the overall theme. During the remainder of the time, scholars worked on individual projects and met weekly for roundtable discussions on each other’s work. The collaboration proved valuable, Dr. Slane said. One colleague, for example, with expertise in art criticism, showed a painting of a crucifixion scene during one of his discussions that Dr. Slane found riveting and used in his own work. In addition, it was “deeply rewarding” to be around other scholars also trained to think conceptually, he said. One of them, Biola philosophy professor Dr. Thomas Crisp, will speak at Simpson’s President’s Lecture Series in February, at the recommendation of Dr. Slane.

Dr. Slane’s research involved doing a fresh reading of the works of Justin Martyr, an early Christian apologist, in an effort to show how the Christian tradition has justified violence. “We live under the myth that violence is essential, that we can’t have a society without it,” Dr. Slane said. “I think Justin bears witness to the fact that there’s a different way of organizing social life.” His resulting paper, “Logos, Skandolon, and a Christian Scholar’s Task,” will be published in a volume with other papers from the conference. (You can find a video of Dr. Slane presenting his paper on youtube.com.)

“The life of the mind to me is a way of preventing staleness. It brings a sense of perspective and excitement into my work as a Simpson professor,” he said. “I have something tangible to bring to my students and colleagues by way of new thinking.”

DR. DAN PINKSTON, professor of theory and composition (pictured left), premiered his second original symphony, “Symphony No. 2” at a sold-out Shasta Symphony Orchestra concert on Oct. 28 at the Shasta College Theatre. The orchestra, a cooperative ensemble between Shasta College and Simpson University, is directed by Dr. Dwayne Corbin, associate professor of instrumental music at Simpson University (pictured below left).

Pinkston’s first symphony, “Symphony No. 1,” premiered in November 2010 at North State Symphony concerts in Chico and Redding. He composed “Symphony No. 2” during the summer of 2012 to commemorate the 125th anniversary of the city of Redding’s founding in 1887. The piece consists of three movements, played without pause.

“Symphony No. 2’s general style reflects the symphonic tradition as found in the music of composers such as Shostakovich and Stravinsky,” Pinkston said. “At the same time, its eclectic and seamless move between various styles reflects a thoroughly 21st century approach to musical composition. A balance is struck between honoring the great symphonies of the past, while forging forward with new musical ideas and expressive devices.”

Pinkston, who has taught at Simpson since 2001, has won many composition awards and had music published by Warner Bros. and other organizations.

Music professor premieres ‘Symphony No. 2’ to sold-out crowd


DIVISION OFHUMANITIES & FINE ARTSCHERRY MCCABE, J.D., assistant professor of

political science, participated in a joint CCCU and Hillsdale College Free Market Forum in Houston, Texas, in October. She was also elected to serve on the executive board of the Pacific Coast Association of Pre-Law Advisors.

DIVISION OFTHEOLOGY & MINISTRY

MICHELLE STINSON, assistant professor of Old Testament, presented a paper titled, “Praise the LORD, the (un)Creator of Heaven and Earth: Psalm 105’s Depiction of YHWH’s

Sovereignty in the Egyptian Plagues,” to the Trinity College Bristol Post-Graduate Research Conference in Bristol, UK, in June. She also attended the Tyndale Fellowship Conference in Northampton, UK, in July, and gave a conference paper titled “The Undoing of Creation: Psalm 105’s Depiction of Divine Judgment in the Egyptian Plagues” at the Evangelical Theological Society Conference in Milwaukee, in November.

DR. STEPHEN K. BAILEY, professor of intercultural studies, co-authored an article for Theological Education in Asian Minority Churches titled “Theological Education in Laos”

to be published this year by the World Council of Churches. Stephen also taught a course called “Effective Ministry in Today’s Globalized Urban Environment” for doctoral students at Alliance Theological Seminary in Nyack, N.Y., in July and August. He also led November workshops in Udornthani, Thailand, for 150 expatriate Christians working in Laos. The workshops were titled “Freedom of Religion” and “Lao Religious Systems.”

DR. MICHAEL LYONS, associate professor of Old Testament, presented a paper in October entitled “The Role and Techniques of Allusion in Ezekiel’s Rhetoric” at a symposium on Textualization,

Intertextuality and the Formation of Prophetic Literature at Harvard Divinity School.

DIVISION OF BUSINESS, PSYCHOLOGY & LEADERSHIPDR. PAUL STONEHOUSE, assistant professor

of outdoor leadership, gave a presentation at the Christian Adventure Association Conference in Mt. Hermon, in October. The title of the

presentation was “The Long Held Assumption of Character Development through Outdoor Adventure Education: Critique and Hope.” He also attended his Ph.D. graduation ceremony in Edinburgh, Scotland, in June.

ADMINISTRATIVELARRY HAIGHT, director of library services

and assistant professor of library science, along with Eric Wheeler, reader and digital services librarian, presented two workshops at the Association

of Christian Librarians Conference at Palm Beach Atlantic University in June. Eric’s workshop was “Using Amazon Web Services to Improve Your Library’s Computing Infrastructure,” and Larry’s was “E-Book Reading Devices–Opportunities for Academic Libraries.”

SCHOOL OF CONTINUING STUDIES PERRY M. GEE, interim dean, School of Continuing Studies, wrote an article titled, “Exploration of the E-patient Phenomenon in Nursing Informatics” for the July issue of Nursing Outlook.

FACULT Y SCHOLARLY AC TIVIT IES visit simpsonu.edu/scholars

facultyin residenceDrs. Mardy Philiippian (pictured

top left) and Paul

Stonehouse and

their families are

participating

this year in the

university’s Faculty-

in-Residence

program, an

effort to extend

intellectual

conversation beyond the classroom.

Participating faculty live in an

apartment in a residence hall and

work to create a welcoming space

in which to explore ideas and

stimulate honest conversation. Learn

more about the program online at

simpsonu.edu/reslife.

new facultySimpson University welcomed

some new faces to its traditional

undergraduate faculty this year.

Kristie Stephens (bottom left)

and Becky Swartzman (bottom

right) joined the School of

Nursing as assistant professors.

‘Christianity and the Art of Politics’: On Oct. 18, Drs. Paul Stonehouse and Mardy Philippian cohosted a campus panel discussion on “Christianity and the Art of Politics.” Political science professor Cherry McCabe spoke about how a Christian worldview intersects with the political realm. Students from the American Elections class researched and presented party platforms and areas where a Christian worldview might align or be in tension with political issues. “The goal was not to tell students how to vote or who to vote for but to help them develop a framework with which to evaluate their own participation in politics and election issues,” McCabe said.



STUDENT

MEXICOTeam Mexico spent a week in May working with the people of Mexicali, giving them health examinations. The team witnessed the transformation of many lives and was able to serve the missionaries already working there. The team shared their stories with the patients they worked with and many came to know Christ be-cause of their servant hearts and attitudes.

EL SALVADOR Team El Salvador spent two weeks in a small village where they got to go into the homes of the locals through prearranged and door-to-door meetings and share the Gospel. They also put on Vacation Bible School for the children of the village and helped with construction work. A few of the team members shared their testimonies at the church services and some were able to lead worship for the community.

FRANCE Team France went to Paris for a basketball camp where they were able to play with the youth. During the middle of the trip, things were not falling in place like planned, but the men made the most of it and spent their time in prayer instead of worrying about the things that could have been different. One team member said, “This made a huge positive difference in our trip.” They were reminded that God was working through them for His glory and not by their own attempts.

1

www.simpsonu.edu / 1-888-9-SIMPSON 05www.simpsonu.edu / 1-888-9-SIMPSON 11

PROPOSED TRIPS 2013

GABONTeam Gabon had a rough start to their trip as their visas were delayed twice. However, through God’s provision, they were only delayed one day. After making it to Gabon, the team worked with the local missionaries to clean up a medicine warehouse at Bongolo Hospital. They also helped the maintenance team at the hospital by running errands and clearing out a house for a missionary couple to move in. They then spent many days serving at an orphanage in Libreville. Despite the difficulties at first, the team went with hearts to serve and ministered to the Gabonese people.

During summer 2012, Simpson University students traveled to nine countries on mission trips. More than 90 students, staff and faculty served worldwide this year.

SPAINTeam Spain ran a soccer camp for the youth in their city as an outreach to Muslim families. Team members used their sports skills to teach character and model Christ-like behavior to the kids. The team helped create relationship opportunities for the long-term missionaries to build upon, and many parents expressed great appreciation to them. They also spent a few days in Fez, Morocco, where they learned about the plight of refugees and Islamic culture.

GERMANYTeam Germany worked with Steiger International Ministries and helped fix up a building that will be used as part of their missionary training school. They also spent time in discipleship classes with students from around the world and deepened their understanding and appreciation for other cultures. Team members focused on growing in their personal relationships with Christ and spreading the good news to others as well.

THAILANDTeam Thailand focused on ministering to youth and university students in Bangkok. The team hosted an “English Weekend” where they held classes and had conversations with Thai students who wanted to learn English. They also helped do some work on a counseling center, participated in several church services where the team members preached and shared testimonies, and visited a Hmong village.

ROMANIA Team Romania spent six weeks serving in a transitional home for young women, called Beauty from Ashes. The team helped the women in their business of making greeting cards and hair accessories. Every day at lunch, they would lead them in a Bible study and discuss God’s work in their lives, which was very encouraging to the young women in the home. They were also able to spend quality time with the long-term family there, finding ways to serve them and further their ministry.

ASIATeam Asia spent eight weeks working alongside local believers to run weekly youth camps on making wise choices. The team taught them that they have character and worth and gave them tools for succeeding in the intense academic setting. The team also enjoyed times of fellowship with their local co-workers, learning more about Christ and about the cost of following him in China.

INDIA // EL SALVADOR // MOLDOVA // LAOS // SOUTHEAST ASIA // SPAIN UKRAINE // THAILAND // MONGOLIA // RUSSIA // MIDDLE EAST // CENTRAL ASIA

SOUTH KOREA // SPRING BREAK TEAMS: CHICAGO // MINNEAPOLIS // WASHINGTON Learn more at simpsonu.edu/missions

1


Origins of Nursing at SimpsonThe idea for a nursing degree program can be traced back 11 years to 2001, when the first proposal was developed as a faculty initiative. Its focus was on missions and global outreach, as well as the development of liberal arts skills. Given how small the science curriculum was at the time, the lack of a coordinated curriculum plan, and resource limitations, it turned out to be a premature effort.

The regional demand for nurses, however,

has continued to grow steadily with each passing year, and the shortages are severe. According to information from the Center for California Health Workforce Studies (UCSF), by 2030 far Northern California is expected to have the greatest share of unfilled RN positions, with nearly 40 percent of jobs vacant. Most of those positions will require a bachelor’s degree or higher. The region also has the second-lowest graduation rate from RN programs, the lowest number of out-of-state RNs relocating to the area, and the greatest

proportion of older nurses. The north state is the only region in California expected to see a decline in the supply of RNs by 2030.

On the basis of these forecasts, and since our sciences were developing and resources were improving, we decided to reconsider nursing as part of a larger curriculum initiative that was approved by the faculty in 2006. We hosted a series of luncheon meetings with local community and business leaders in 2006-07, asking them to tell us what academic programs Redding and Northern California needed

A nyone who has ever spent a significant amount of time in a healthcare facility can attest to the critical and transformative role nurses play in patient care and wellbeing. They are significant in the healing process. Beyond that, for Christians in the

profession, they are the hands and feet of Christ. As Simpson grows its nursing programs, our graduates will be carrying out our mission to serve—in this case those with physical needs—literally every day. We expect that their Kingdom impact on regional healthcare (as well as healthcare needs around the world) will be profound, to the glory of God and His church.

HANDS AND FEETSimpson University Committed to Excellence in Nursing By Stanley A. Clark


most from Simpson University. Nursing and health sciences emerged as the strongest request, by far, from the leaders with whom we met. Recognizing the significant potential for enrollment growth, we selected nursing as our first area for concentrated effort. It was seen as highly mission-related, and with so few bachelor’s-level nursing programs in Northern California, it would definitely fill a need for our region.

We, of course, knew that this program would have an impact on Simpson’s culture and community. It would be our first fully professional degree (with external regulation by BRN, the California Board of Registered Nursing). It would attract a new type of student to campus—one with strongly pre-determined career goals, and proven capacity in the sciences and mathematics. We knew it would instantly become a high-demand program that would reshape the profile of our annual incoming class.

We also knew it would require a major commitment and investment for the university, in that we would need to hire several faculty and build adequate facilities to support both the nursing curriculum and the

prerequisite science courses as well. When we compared the investment required against the potential return in tuition revenue, and further fulfillment of our mission in an entirely new direction for Simpson, we were confident this would be a wise step to take.

Implementation The approval process for our first nursing degree began in fall 2006. It was an RN-to-BSN degree and was housed in our School of Continuing Studies (ASPIRE) degree-completion program. It was designed for students who already were registered nurses, with associate’s degrees, and who desired to complete a bachelor of science degree. This would require no special facilities, since the practical nursing courses would have already been completed elsewhere. The proposal was developed with the assistance of an external consultant and approved by the Board of Registered Nursing in 2007.

The RN-BSN Track curriculum is 16

months in length and focuses on theory, leadership, research, and professional issues, as well as completion of additional Simpson graduation requirements in Bible and religion. As part of their regular coursework, graduates also are eligible for the Public Health Nurse Certificate, which expands their employment options. Students are also encouraged to complete a three-course sequence of online courses in the area of Healthcare Management, and those that do so receive a specialized healthcare management certificate.

The full four-year degree program for traditional undergraduates, called the “generic BSN,” was developed in 2008-09 with the aid of a consultant and approved by the Board of Registered Nursing after

a lengthy self-study and site visit in May of 2010. The first class was admitted that fall and began studies in January of 2011. The generic BSN curriculum includes three semesters of general education and pre-nursing science courses. Admission is based on a rigorous and highly competitive system. (cont. on p.14)

“The Simpson nursing program has truly

been one of the best experiences of my life.”

– Laura Nasise (‘13)

DR. STANLEY A. CLARK recently retired as provost of Simpson University, after serving in that capacity since fall 2005. He had more than 30 years of experience in Christian college academic administration. An alumnus of Wheaton College, he did his graduate work in sociology at the University of Florida. His writings have appeared frequently in the Gateway.

(Cont. from p.13)

“I PURSUED NURSING BECAUSE I FELT IT WAS MY CALLING...THE LORD PUT IT ON MY HEART TO HELP OTHERS.” - OLEY MANIVONG ‘13

study and clinical rotations in area hospitals and other medical facilities, in a wide range of healthcare settings.

The peopleSeveral individuals have played key roles in the development of nursing at Simpson University, and they deserve special recognition. The 2001 faculty initiative for a nursing major was conducted under the leadership of professor Pam Van der Werff, chair of the Division of Science and Math. Our external consultant for both nursing degrees was Jan Dinkel, who now serves as dean of the School of Nursing. The visionary behind the RN-BSN Track, and its chief advocate since its inception, is Patty Taylor, former dean of the School of Continuing Studies. The RN-BSN Track curriculum is currently led by Perry Gee, a long-time adjunct professor and acting dean for the School of Continuing Studies. The President’s Cabinet has been fully supportive of nursing and enthusiastically approved the necessary investment capital and ongoing costs for both degree programs. Finally, special thanks is due to the Fletcher Jones Foundation, whose major grant in 2010 enabled us to purchase lab equipment.

As of the early fall semester, 82 traditional undergraduate students had declared themselves to be “pre-nursing,” and these students will be competing for the limited available slots. Those who are accepted into the program begin in the spring of their sophomore year and spend the next five semesters engaged in intensive classroom

The program today: A snapshotThe RN-BSN Track in ASPIRE is strong and highly successful, taught by adjunct faculty. As for the four-year generic BSN, we now have a full contingent of faculty and staff as required by our licensing agency. This includes a dean; five full-time faculty, each with a different nursing specialty and each with a

master’s degree and significant experience; and a program coordinator. The program is housed in two of our remaining modular buildings on the west side of campus; these are clearly temporary facilities, but they are serving us well while we await the new Science and Nursing Building. We are also very proud of the high-tech “family” of four state-of-the-art computerized manikins in our lab; simulation is important to our curriculum, and our students (as well as area nurses) receive first-rate training on these life-like devices.

To date we have graduated almost 100 students in the RN-BSN Track program and

have earned a strong reputation in the north state for the quality of our program and our students. Thirty-two students are currently enrolled in the RN-BSN Track. There are a total of 80 students enrolled in the generic BSN program. This is

a special year for nursing at Simpson: our first generic BSN graduating class, composed of 20 students, will receive their diplomas in April of 2013.

We expect that demand will continue to grow, since Simpson and Chico State are now the only four-year nursing-degree programs in California north of Sacramento.

Vision for the futureThe most critical element in the development of our nursing program (and future growth beyond that) is the funding and completion of the new Science and Nursing Building. Without the building we would be limited to one cohort start per year, with 30 students each; when the building is completed we can triple that enrollment. The new facility will provide classrooms, offices and laboratories for our faculty in both nursing and the sciences.

When the building is operational, we can then consider next steps as we grow our curriculum in the area of health sciences. The most natural expansion would be the development of a master’s degree in nursing (MSN); there is, again, strong demand for such a program. Beyond that, there are a number of special professional health-related degrees and certificates we could consider. But given the shortages in nursing, we expect our two existing bachelor-level nursing degrees to be the foundation of our offerings for the foreseeable future.

The construction of the building will also allow us to complete the final phase of program development for undergraduate nursing: obtaining accreditation with CCNE, the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. This is a national-level professional organization that will recognize and attest to the quality of our degrees.

“The nursing faculty and staff truly want us to

understand and succeed, and they go above and beyond to help us do so.

Simpson cares!” – Laura Kobzeff (‘13)

SERVING THROUGH THE SCIENCESsimpsonu.edu/biologysimpsonu.edu/nursingsimpsonu.edu/aspire


B.S.N CLASS OF 2013

REBEKAH GROEN Ripon, CaliforniaAfter graduation, I plan to work in the States for a couple of years. Someday I plan on doing overseas missions.

HANNAH E. HOFFMANLodi, CaliforniaI would like to work as a pediatric, IMCU, or ER nurse. Later, I would like to use my degree in the mission field.

STACY WOOLEYRedding, CaliforniaI hope to make a positive impact on the lives of the patients and families I come in contact with during my career.

TYLOR CILIONEButte Valley, CaliforniaI would love to become a pediatric nurse, flight nurse, traveling nurse, and Navy nurse—but for sure, at some point, a NICU nurse.

LAURA KOBZEFFFairfield, CaliforniaI want to serve the Lord, whether in a hospital, or home care, or going overseas; I want to be useful and maintain a Kingdom focus in whatever I do.

TESSA SMITHLynchburg, VirginiaI hope to travel and reach people all over the world who might not otherwise receive medical care or experience the compassion and love of Christ.

ROBERTA IYAMUSacramento, CaliforniaI believe with God on my side, I can do anything.

LAURA NASISERed Bluff, CaliforniaI plan on working within my community as a registered nurse.

HOSSANA TERRADOHonolulu, HawaiiMy plan after graduation is to get my license to work as an RN. Going into the military is an option.

OLEY MANIVONGRedding, CaliforniaI plan on continuing my education and hopefully one day be able to give back to Simpson as an instructor.

KATIE JENSENRedding, CaliforniaI would love to be an ER nurse and also be able to go help in underprivileged communities and countries.

KENDRA SCHUBERTCottonwood, CaliforniaI hope to be able to make a difference in peoples’ lives by caring for them when they need it most. I also hope to someday open a detox and rehabilitation center.

HANNAH HINRICHSENRedding, CaliforniaI’m most interested so far in oncology and hospice because I feel you can connect with the patients on a more personal level, long-term.

DANAE HICKSLincoln, CaliforniaI would love to work in the neuro- intensive care unit where I currently work as a CNA. My future goal is to complete my master’s or doctorate.

PAIGE GOMEZOrange County, CaliforniaSimpson has a dedicated staff that values each student. I had amazing professors.

NICOLLE LARKINRedding, CaliforniaI am grateful to have had such amazing people involved in my education.

AMOL NIJJARSacramento, CaliforniaI appreciate that Simpson’s nursing program is focused on caring.

SUPPORT THE SCIENCE & NURSING BUILDING

“As Simpson University nursing students, being a good nurse is just the fundamentals of what you will be learning. More importantly, you will be learning character, devotion, love and faith.” - Cassidy Iverson, class of 2013

Giving to the Science and Nursing Building is a tangible way to support students like Cassidy and her B.S.N. classmates, who seek to make a difference in the lives of future patients.

GIVE ONLINE

simpsonu.edu/snbuilding

GIVE BY PHONE

(530) 226-4119

GIVE BY CHECK

Advancement OfficeSimpson University2211 College View Drive Redding, CA 96003

CASSIDY IVERSONSquaw Valley, Lake TahoeMy hope is to make a change for the better in the lives of others. I can’t imagine a more rewarding and fulfilling way to pursue the rest of my life.

NATHAN BOYDMurrieta, CaliforniaI plan to work in an emergency department, trauma room, or in surgery as an RN, and then possibly go on to be a nurse anesthetist.

SHEILA SHOEMAKERRedding, CaliforniaSimpson’s nursing program has changed my life. The professors are phenomenal; they encourage and support during every step.

SERVING THROUGH THE SCIENCESsimpsonu.edu/biologysimpsonu.edu/nursingsimpsonu.edu/aspire



SIMPSON UNIVERSITY ALUMNA and Redding resident Michelle Morris is the recipient of a prestigious scholarship to the Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing at UC Davis.

Morris, 43, who earned her bachelor of science in nursing in 2011 through the School of Continuing Studies (ASPIRE program), was inducted in September into the school and honored during the ceremony.

The induction ceremony was standing-room-only and featured a keynote address from Dr. Susan Hassmiller, one of the top nurses in the country, said Perry Gee, director of Simpson’s RN-BSN Track. Hassmiller is the nursing leader at the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.

Morris received the Pat and Charles Fullerton Pain Management Nursing Scholarship, a competitive scholarship awarded to students who prepare an exceptional essay and demonstrate excellent interview skills related to their plans to study pain management, Gee said.

“Michelle was a very dedicated and participatory student, a great writer and always supportive of her classmates,” Gee said. “We are so proud to have her represent the nursing graduates of Simpson University.”

Morris, who also earned a Certificate in Healthcare Management from Simpson, attends classes at the Sacramento campus and also works in Redding as an acute dialysis RN.

“Earning my bachelor’s degree from the Simpson ASPIRE program has truly benefited my life in unimaginable ways,” she said. “I am now working in the career of my dreams, I’m attending graduate school at UC Davis, and I have made lifelong personal and professional relationships with my colleague classmates from Simpson. I’m excited to see what happens next.”

NURSING NEWS FROM THE SCHOOL OF CONTINUING STUDIES: RN-BSN TRACKNursing Alumna Receives Prestigious Scholarship

Michelle Morris

RESEARCH BY SIMPSON UNIVERSITY nursing students was displayed during October in the Shasta County Board of Supervisors chambers. The display case, which is used by Shasta County Public Health to create educational displays, featured a poster by students Ramona Stewart and Kristy O’Sullivan titled “DEET and West Nile Prevention” and one by students Cheri Miller and Allison Weil titled “AMP Up Your Life.”

The students are part of Simpson’s School of Continuing Studies’ RN-BSN Track. In 16 months, registered nurses are able to earn their bachelor of science in nursing degree. Public Health partners with students in the RN-BSN Track, providing educational opportunities for them. In turn, the students provide Public Health with extra support, such as helping with flu vaccine clinics.

As part of Simpson’s public/community health nursing course taught by Julie Gee, students were asked to choose a problem or potential problem relating to community health concerns. They conducted research and identified possible interventions to address the issue and presented their topics in an open forum.

“The students are wonderful,” said Kate Pasley, director of nursing for Shasta County Public Health. “They are eager to learn, and we love providing good learning opportunities for new nurses.”

Simpson Nursing Student Research Displayed in County Building

For more information about the ASPIRE RN-BSN Track program, visit simpsonu.edu/aspire.

For information about Simpson University’s School of Nursing, visit simpsonu.edu/nursing.

Illustration by Jimi Bonogofsky


SIMPSON ALUMNA Ruth Kroon ‘51 (pictured right) served as a missionary nurse in the former Belgian Congo for more than 20 years. She attended Simpson Bible Institute in Seattle, then trained at Seattle’s Swedish Medical Center before embarking on a lifelong overseas ministry with the Christian and Missionary Alliance.

Curtis Sharpe, a 1960 alumnus, and his wife, Mary Beth, got to know Ruth years ago while Curtis was working for Simpson University as an advancement representative in the Pacific Northwest. He had only met her briefly before, as she is a “shirt-tail relative,” he said, the sister of an uncle by marriage.

“We fell in love with her,” he said. “We loved her enthusiasm for Simpson and for Jesus.”

Curtis and Mary Beth decided to start a scholarship in Ruth’s name to support students who wanted to go into missions work, particularly those going into nursing. Ruth, who attends North Seattle Alliance Church, has always been a faithful supporter of Simpson, even in her older years, Curtis said.

Part of the Sharpes’ desire in starting the Ruth Kroon Missionary Scholarship is to challenge other churches to honor their retired missionaries by setting up Simpson scholarships in their names.

“As I visit and get to know the hearts of many of our returned and retired missionaries, I have heard and felt their hearts for seeing God’s Kingdom be made complete,” Curtis said. “They see Simpson University as a place that impacts souls for the Kingdom of God. Ruth Kroon is one of the many shining examples of this love for Jesus and the lost.”

Curtis said his heart is challenged to be part of God’s work through giving. “Every church could consider honoring those who have given it ‘all for Jesus’ with their life’s commitment to missionary service,” he said. “It is such an honor to honor those servants.”

Update:MCKENZIE ROSE NURSING SCHOLARSHIP

IN THE SPRING/SUMMER 2010 issue of Gateway (available online at simpsonu.edu/gateway), we introduced readers to the McKenzie Rose Spencer Nursing Scholarship. Jeff ‘93 and Beth Spencer started the scholarship in honor of what would have been the 15th birthday of their daughter, McKenzie Rose, who was born with Down syndrome.

“We know what it’s like to have nurses make a tremendous difference in the most difficult of circumstances,” the Spencers said in 2010. “Because of this, we want to help make it possible for aspiring nurses to attend Simpson University.”

Nearly 100 people have contributed to the scholarship thus far, and it continues to grow. Nursing student Hossana Terrado was chosen as the first recipient for fall 2010 and has received it each year since.

“It has been such an amazing experience to be part of creating McKenzie’s scholarship,” said Beth Spencer, who has worked at Simpson more than 20 years, currently as director of advancement services. “With its continued growth, we hope to be able to award two nursing students each year after Hossana graduates in April.”

To contribute to the McKenzie Rose Nursing Scholarship, go to simpsonu.edu/mckenziesgift; email [email protected]; or call (530) 226-4119.

To donate to the Ruth Kroom Missionary Scholarship, or to learn about setting up a memorial scholarship, contact Vonnie Dodson at [email protected] or (530) 226-4119.

Introducing: RUTH KROON MISSIONARY SCHOLARSHIP

giving FOCUS

WAYS YOU CANSUPPORT NURSINGAT SIMPSON

18 GATEWAY Fall/Winter 201218 GATEWAY Fall/Winter 2012

new arrivals

Laney McKenzie McMahon was born Aug. 6, 2011, to

Justin and Rebecca (James ’09, TC ‘11) McMahon.

(2) Jessica Grace D’Amico was born Oct. 6, 2011, to Loren ‘07 and Charity D’Amico.

(3) Isabella Hope Cox was born Feb. 13, 2012, to Caleb ’05 and Becky (Swinburne ‘04) Cox. She joins big sister

Jenna Faith.

Connor Eagleton was born May 7, 2012, to David and Jenny (Charter ’03) Eagleton. Connor joins siblings Cody,

Kiley and Caedon. The Eagletons live in Canada.

Margot Emia Wise was born June 7, 2012, to Jacob and

Hannah (Klose ’12) Wise. Margot’s grandparents are Ed

and Grethe Klose, who worked at Simpson for 12 years.

Rowan Gurczynski was born June 11, 2012, to Ben ’07

and Stephani Gurczynski. He joins big brother Jude.

Abigail Ciasiab “Hope” Chang was born June 13, 2012, to

Phillip ’12 and Ku Chang.

(4) Sean Isaac Henneberque was born Aug. 24, 2011, to

Eric and Sarah (Hoffman) Henneberque, both ’07.

(5) Josiah Gideon Brown was adopted on June 26, 2012,

by Paul and Sarah (Anderson ’98, TC ‘99) Brown. Josiah

joins big brother Jeremiah.

Hannah Lynn Giles was born July 11, 2012, to Matt and Leah (Reginato) Giles, both ‘09.

Reagan Louise Wright was born Aug.1, 2012, to Steven ’01 and Aimee (Roy ‘02) Wright.

2

1

Want to share your news? The next Gateway magazine will come out in early summer. Email your updates to [email protected] (while you’re at it, ask to receive the free monthly alumni enewsletter). Stay connected with former classmates through facebook.com/simpsonualumni or at hawksnest.simpsonu.edu.

2000s

(1) Jennifer Johnson ’06 married Yusheng Yang, a Stanford alumnus,

on June 2, 2012, in San Ramon, Calif. The couple lives in Newark, Calif.

Travis Derochowski ’12 has signed a professional basketball contract

to play with Atleticos University Central de Venezuela in the Latin

Basketball League. Travis was selected First-Team All-Cal-Pac (California-

Pacific Conference) during Simpson University’s 2011-12 basketball

season and led the Red Hawks in rebounding.

alumni UPDATES


5www.simpsonu.edu / 1-888-9-SIMPSON 19

4

3

5

Alexis Renae Hansen was born Sept. 4, 2012, to Brian and Sandy (Stuart) Hansen, both ’04. Alexis is Brian and

Sandy’s third child.

Sabina Kakhadze was born Sept. 22, 2012, to Levan (’05) and Erin (Hrimnak ’03) Kakhadze.

Eden Joy Gossard was born Sept. 23, 2012, to Daniel and

Becky (Levy ‘04) Gossard.

Elyse Danbi Park was born Sept. 29, 2012, to Steve and

Kimberly JoiAnne (Ryan ’04) Park.

in memoriam

Robert E. Kaminsky ‘51 passed away Jan. 8, 2012. A World War II Army veteran, Robert also served as a missionary with New Tribes Mission in Sanford.

Beatrice Irene (Lewis ‘53) Besette passed away Aug. 15, 2012.

Jhan Moskowitz, who attended Simpson in the ‘70s, passed away Sept. 5, 2012. Jhan was one of the founders of Jews for Jesus. For more information about his life, visit http://conti-nentalnews.net/2012/09/06/jhan-moskowitz-64-dies-after-subway-fall-11625.html.

C. Richard Staub Sr. ‘46 passed away Sept. 6, 2012. His son, Dick Staub Jr. ’71, author and founder of The Kindlings movement, wrote about his father in a blog entry at http://dick-staub.com/staublog/first-thoughts-on-the-day-of-my-fathers-death/.

Lana Jane Rylee ’93 (TC ’94) passed away Sept. 24, 2012, in Redding. Lana worked as an instructional aide for many years before returning to college to become a teacher. After earning her bachelor’s degree and teaching credential from Simpson, she earned master’s and doctoral degree. She worked as a teacher, vice principal and principal for the Redding School District. She is survived by her husband, two daughters and several grandchildren.

Barbara (Ledbetter) Olsen, who attended Simpson in San Francisco in ‘65-‘67, passed away Sept. 30, 2012. She is survived by her husband, the Rev. David Olsen ‘70, whom she met during her time at Simpson. She minis-tered as a pastor’s wife in the Christian and Mis-sionary Alliance for 26 years. She also served as a music teacher and worked for the Salvation Army. (Olsens pictured below.)

Let us know about your new arrival, and we’ll send you a Simpson University onesie. Then be sure to send us a photo of your future Simpson graduate sporting his or her first Red Hawks T-shirt. Email [email protected].

my first simpson tee

(1) Triplets Mason Howard, Kyle Joseph, and Alyssa Hope Kleier were born Sept. 3, 2010, to John ’09 and Ashley (Ganim ‘08) Kleier. The Kleier family lives in Chico.

(2) Michael ’86 and Carina Jung adopted siblings Jacob and Bridger.

(3) James Thomas Minami was born Aug. 7, 2012, to Tim (‘02) and Elaine (Luukkonen ’03) Minami. James joins big

sister Daphne. The Minamis live in Redding, where Tim teaches

junior high.

(4) Aviya Janelle Krum, daughter of Alex ’07 and Kat (Massa ’06) Krum, is 5 months old in this spring 2012 photo.

(5) Titus David Josifek was born April 13, 2011, to Isaac and Becky (Anderson ’02) Josifek.

1

2

4

5

3


alumni NEWS

• Alumni Chapel

• Past, Present & Future Prayer Walk

• Classroom Visits

• Alumni Banquet

• Tailgate Party • Extravaganza & BBQ

• Varsity Basketball Games

• Athletic Hall of Fame Induction

• NEW THIS YEAR—special activities geared for alumni grandparents and their grandchildren.

SAVETHE DATEHOMECOMING 2013February 8-9

Watch your email for all the

great events and activities

planned for Homecoming

2013. Send your email

address to:

[email protected]

look who dropped by

(1) Paul Hayes ’90(2) Matt Bridgen ’99 (pictured with Gordon Flinn,

vice president for Advancement)

(3) Judy ’99 and Harold Reynolds

(4) Devin ’02 and Laura (McCorkle ’05) Allison and daughter Eva

(5) Laura ’03 and Jordon Hollis(6) David Bhasme ’08 visited with his parents,

Gladstone and Usma, from Bangalore, India.

(7) Ashley Braxton ‘10(8) Katie Larkins ’11 (pictured with Matt Kluttz,

director of university relations) visited campus while

home from United Arab Emirates, where she teaches

English.

The Alumni Office loves visitors. If you’re ever in Redding or passing through, drop by and say hello. The office is on the third floor of the Owen Student Services Center.

Alumni Group Gatherings

A group of Redding-based alums and friends gathered in August to say goodbye to Bill ‘50 and Inez “Mickey” (Collings ‘47) Cooper as they prepared to move from Redding to Brentwood. Seated, from left, Cathy Urban ‘71 and Mickey Cooper. Middle row, from left: Kris (Ellisen ‘83) Flinn, Judy (Davis ‘61) Jung, Bill Cooper, Lisa (Cooper ‘86) Wood, Vonnie (Collord ‘81) Dodson, Jeff Dodson ‘81, Andi and Don Ellisen. Back row, from left: Gordon Flinn ‘83 and Bill Jung.

Three Simpson alumni couples who were married in the summer of 1955 gathered in Pleasanton in July to share a meal, reminisce, and catch up. From left, William “Bill” Maize, Iris (York) Maize, Dan Seng, Joyce (Friesen) Seng, Diane (Molitor) Foley, and Dave Foley. Dan Seng wrote, “I am sure I speak for the rest when I underscore the verse from scripture, Proverbs 3:7, ‘In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your paths.’ Fifty-seven years ago when we had either just finished Simpson or were about to do so, we began our married lives seeking to fulfill the Lord’s will; and He has led each of us through many years of His presence and blessing—albeit some challenging ones. And we have met together rather often through the years, frequently with yet other couples, also 1955ers.”

1 2 3 4

5 6 7 8


Standing, from left: Joe Slavens, Ann Miller, Tami Brown, Larry Siemens, Trenton Smith, Kandice Stallcop, Joe Griffin, Jan Dinkel. Seated, from left: Maria Wayman, Sarah Schuler, Angie Hurtado, Tim Warkentin, Derrick Pringle Jr., Debbie Cadaret, Michelle Stinson, Michael Lyons. Not pictured: Matt Garrett, Perry Gee, Ben Gurczynksi, Leron Heath, Connie Mendonca, Margaret Savage, Kerri Schuette, Wayne Stower.

From left: Jack Painter, Candace Brown Dyar, Lori Dodds, Diana Larkins, Kendell Kluttz, Melissa Hudson, Brian Larsen. Not pictured: Richard Harris, Brandy Liebscher, Dellene Ott, Dayton Phillips.

Robin Bankson, Wally Quirk. Not pictured: Michael Borgaard, Glenn Eaton.

Dr. Glee Brooks Dean of the School of Education and associate professor of education

Alan Rose Assistant professor of English and literature

EMERITI SOCIETY: Gerald Stayton, former vice president for business and finance and adjunct professor emeritus, was inducted into the Emeriti Society. Created in 1995, the Emeriti Society is a way of honoring retiring faculty and staff who have served Simpson faithfully for at least 10 years. The Gerald & Peg Stayton Scholarship was set up this year to honor his retirement. Those wishing to contribute can contact Vonnie Dodson at [email protected] or (530) 226-4119.

Each fall before classes start, Simpson

University faculty and staff gather for a day of fellowship,

worship, food, announcements and

recognition. Those celebrating milestone

employment anniversaries are

publicly honored.

EMPLOYEE SERVICE RECOGNIZED

Employee Service Recognized

15 YR 20YR 35YR

10YR

5YR


RECENT SIMPSON UNIVERSITY GRADUATE RACHEL HARRISON (’12) flew halfway around the world from Burkina Faso, Africa, to be the first person in her family to attend Simpson University.

“At first I wasn’t going to apply to Simpson because it was all the way in Redding, California, and I had never heard of that place,” she said. “I ended up receiving the Pastoral Heritage Scholarship, so I started doing some research about Simpson. After a while, I really felt like Simpson offered the kind of atmosphere that I would want in a college.”

After graduating with a B.A. in cross-cultural studies with an emphasis in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) and a minor in Education in April, Rachel has once again flown halfway around the world to Cote D’Ivoire, Africa, to do part of her student teaching at the International Community School of Abidjan. Rachel is the first person from Simpson University’s School of Education to do her student teaching at this school and one of only three students to student teach in Africa.

“It has always been Rachel’s dream to teach abroad,” said Dr. Glee Brooks, dean of the School of Education. “We are pleased that Simpson has an option for doing half of student teaching internationally.”

Rachel learned about the possibility of doing her student teaching at the International Community School of Abidjan from her parents, who live less than a mile from the school. “They heard about a need for more teachers, and so my mom had the idea of me doing my student teaching there,” said Rachel. “By the grace of God, everything seemed to fall into place.”

Rachel did her first student-teaching assignment in a kindergarten class at Boulder Creek Elementary School in Redding. She notes some of the differences in teaching overseas. “There are less resources available to use in the classroom,” she said. “Also, there are many more ELL (English Language Learner) students which will be difficult for teaching.”

Despite the challenges, Rachel is eager to live in Africa again. “In a way Africa is home, and I am really excited to be back in that culture,” she said.

Rachel said she is excited to spend Christmas with her parents and teach in a culturally diverse classroom. She is also glad to be working at the school she attended for four months during her freshman year of high school.

Rachel is not alone in her desire to serve internationally. The School of Education has had more than 10 students do a portion of their student teaching in countries that include Ethiopia, India, France, Spain, Indonesia, and Taiwan.

“We have a unique opportunity for our teacher credentialing students for elementary grades to do half of their student teaching overseas,” said Dr. Brooks. “The students who choose this have a heart for missions and international teaching. Simpson University has an emphasis on serving peoples of the world, locally and globally. The School of Education embraces this mission.”

When Rachel was a sophomore, her parents, Randy and Deanna Harrison, served as Simpson’s International Workers in Residence. They are seminary

professors in Africa. “It was great for them to be able to see my school here and see my new world as an adult,” she said. “It was a great time for us to grow in our relationship beyond high school.”

After she receives her teaching credential in January 2013, Rachel is planning to do an internship at the Little Light House, a Christian developmental center in Oklahoma that provides tuition-free educational and therapeutic services to children with special needs from birth to age 6.

“I absolutely love children,” said Rachel. “I want to work with early childhood education for orphans and so many times you see disabilities in orphanages. I have seen what the devastation of not having a caring education can do for a child, especially one who is deprived of parents.”

“Rachel has always expressed noble aspirations for serving the youth of the world,” Dr. Brooks said.

“After a while, I really felt like Simpson offered the

kind of atmosphere that I would want in a college.”

– Rachel Harrison (‘12)

student focusstudent focusFaraway serviceSimpson offers overseas opportunities for student teachers By Elise (Gleason ‘08) Wilson

ADVENTURES ABROAD: Rachel Harrison is completing her student teaching in Cote D’Ivoire, Africa.


2211 College View DriveRedding, CA 96003

NON PROFIT ORGUS POSTAGE

PAIDCRAFTSMANPRINTERS INC

For more information or to give online visit simpsonu.edu/libraryendowmentor scan the QR code with your smart phone.

Friends of the Simpson University Library Endowment Fund

A LEGACY OF IMPACTYou can be a founding member of this unique endowment designed to challenge young minds.

gateway magazine fall/winter '12

Documents

nursing students

nursing building

school of nursing

nursing degree

new building

nursing skills

history of simpson university

new programs