Andrews University Agenda

Andrews University Agenda http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/ News and Events at Andrews University en-us Copyright 2026, Andrews University Mon, 12 Oct 2026 19:19:00 +0000 Mon, 12 Oct 2026 19:19:00 +0000 webmaster@andrews.edu webmaster@andrews.edu Second Annual Mental Health Symposium at Andrews http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/70393 <p> From Sept. 10–13, the second annual Thrive: Andrews University Mental Health & Lifestyle Medicine Symposium took place. Coordinated by the University’s Counseling & Testing Center (CTC) in partnership with the College of Health & Human Services and the Lifestyle Medicine Clinic & Training Center, the symposium brought together students, faculty and professionals for presentations, discussions and hands-on activities focused on mental health, lifestyle medicine and whole-person well-being.</p> <p> Following the inaugural 2025 symposium, themed “Building a Mental Health Friendly Campus,” this year’s theme of “AI, Social Media and Implications for Mental Health & Lifestyle Medicine” examined the growing influence of artificial intelligence (AI), smartphones and social media hyperconnectivity on mental health. Sessions also explored sleep, nutrition, nature, lifestyle medicine and faith.</p> <p> During the opening session, Stacey Nicely, director of the CTC, and Sherri Isaak, associate professor in the School of Population Health, Nutrition & Wellness, introduced the symposium’s themes and connection to the broader goal of helping individuals thrive. Nicely highlighted the symposium’s focus on artificial intelligence, mental health and lifestyle medicine, saying, “We are here to talk about AI, to talk about mental health, to talk about lifestyle medicine and making healthy lifestyle choices.” She also described the event as an opportunity to examine how people can make wise choices and thrive as technology continues to develop rapidly, potentially outpacing “our minds, our institutions and perhaps even our wisdom.”</p> <p> The opening program included a student debate, “Can AI chatbots replace human therapists?” Graduate and undergraduate students examined the potential and limitations of AI in mental health care, including ethics, confidentiality, crisis recognition and human relationships. Camille Graham, graduate counseling psychology student and predoctoral intern at the CTC, emphasized, “We’re not arguing that AI can become a human therapist. We’re arguing that AI can perform some therapeutic functions.” The debate highlighted that although there is some advancement of AI in mental health care, human-to-human contact remains primary and crucial.</p> <p> Additional sessions explored the responsible use of AI, digital protection and social media hyperconnectivity. Speakers included Sam Kann, chief information officer; Harvey Burnett, chair of the School of Social & Behavioral Sciences; Michael Hess, pastor and physician; Janine Lim, dean of the Global Campus; and Karl Bailey, professor in the School of Social & Behavioral Sciences and learning officer. A live AI demonstration led by Trudean Scott-Elliott, staff therapist at the CTC, allowed participants to examine how an AI chatbot responds to emotional distress and potential crisis. Panelists asked audience members to carefully consider issues pertaining to safety, confidentiality, culture and potential pitfalls of AI use for mental health care and particularly in moments of crisis.</p> <p> The symposium also addressed lifestyle and whole-person health. Ron Stout, president and chief executive officer of the Ardmore Institute of Health, and Steven Mauro, director of operations at the Ardmore Institute of Health, discussed behavioral therapy and lifestyle medicine, while Roger Seheult, associate clinical professor at the University of California, Riverside, School of Medicine, explored sleep and student well-being. Padma Tadi Uppala, professor in the School of Population Health, Nutrition & Wellness at Andrews, shared a presentation titled “Nature as Medicine,” introducing the concept of a “nature prescription” and discussing how time outdoors can support health.</p> <p> On Saturday, Eric Walsh, assistant professor at UNT Health Fort Worth’s Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine, and Seheult were interviewed by Shane Anderson, lead pastor of Pioneer Memorial Church. In the discussion, they connected mental health and lifestyle medicine with faith. Walsh discussed increasing anxiety and depression among young people and changes in technology and family life. Seheult advised “get outside,” encouraging participants to spend time outdoors.</p> <p> The symposium concluded with hands-on sessions addressing nutrition, technology and nature. Throughout the event, presenters encouraged participants to view mental health through physical, cognitive, social and spiritual dimensions. Nicely expressed hope that attendees would leave “a lot more aware” and with “more tools to help you live responsibly, choose wisely and make healthy lifestyle choices.”</p> <p> The Thrive: Andrews University Mental Health & Lifestyle Medicine Symposium will return in 2027, focusing on college anxiety, strategies and interventions to cope well.</p> Thu, 08 Oct 2026 12:04:17 +0000 Change Day Returns to Andrews University http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/70392 <p> On Thursday, Sept. 10, Andrews University brought back its annual Change Day, continuing its tradition of serving the surrounding community. The event brought together 730 students, faculty and staff, who volunteered at 48 sites throughout the area.</p> <p> The first Change Day was held in 2017 and was a creation of Christon Arthur, former University provost. The event continued annually through 2023. After it was temporarily discontinued, Angelisse Villamizar, Change Day project manager, says she noticed how much students and members of the Andrews community missed the opportunity to serve together. In response, the Campus Ministries team worked hard to make the event a reality again this year.</p> <p> Change Day began at the Andrews University Flag Mall, where participants received T-shirts and snacks, met their project leaders and gathered for a short program before traveling to their service sites. Volunteers served from approximately 10 a.m.–2 p.m., with an after-party hosted by the Andrews University Student Association.</p> <p> This year’s projects included landscaping, painting fire hydrants, cleaning, organizing, stocking shelves, assisting at libraries and spending time with residents at assisted living communities. Participants served with organizations such as Neighbor to Neighbor, United Way of Southwest Michigan, Backpacks for Berrien, Woodland Terrace, Eau Claire District Library, Fernwood Botanical Garden and Love Creek Nature Center.</p> <p> Lissette Lozano, senior pre-physical therapy student, volunteered at Woodland Terrace, a senior living community. Her group sang hymns and worship songs with residents and spent time talking and playing games with them. “I think something that I really resonated with was, here at Andrews the motto is World Changers Made Here, and you can really see that through the activities that Andrews provides and giving back to the community,” Lozano says.</p> <p> Liz Nyamweya, senior nursing student, also volunteered at Woodland Terrace, where she conversed with residents, sang worship songs and joined their exercise program. “Change Day is a fulfilling experience and a gentle reminder of God’s love all around us,” Nyamweya shares.</p> <p> Another participant, Thelma Tinomudaishe Rateiwa, junior speech-language pathology and audiology student, prepared care packages for mothers and families who had experienced miscarriage, stillbirth or the loss of a baby during the first year of life. Rateiwa initially chose the project because her friends were participating, but the experience gave her a new perspective on supporting families experiencing loss. “I felt as though I made a more heartfelt impact here,” she notes. She describes Change Day as “life-changing, heartfelt, healing.</p> <p> University Chaplain Jonathan Fetrick says the event provides an opportunity for the Andrews community to put faith into action and connect with organizations outside the University. “It serves as a reminder and a consistent day when students, faculty and staff can say, ‘We’re really about serving people and serving the world.’” Fetrick says. Several participating organizations followed up with messages thanking Andrews volunteers and expressing appreciation for the work completed.</p> <p> For Villamizar, seeing Change Day return after its three-year hiatus was one of the most meaningful parts of the experience. “It was very special to me to be able to be part of bringing something important back to this community, because it was important to them, and they loved this event,” she says. She hopes the event will continue annually and encourage students to make service a part of their lives throughout the school year.</p> <p> Fetrick similarly hopes that Change Day will become part of a larger culture of service at Andrews, allowing students, clubs and departments to invest in relationships with community organizations throughout the year. His vision is for Change Day to become a “practical, tangible ministry that people are doing,” emphasizing that “it’s about people, interactions and what they accomplish.”</p> <div> <u font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); box-sizing: border-box;">                    </u></div> <div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> To learn more about studying at Andrews University, please visit <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/admissions/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">Enrollment</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> If you’re interested in joining the Andrews University team, please see the list of available <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/services/hr/job_seekers/index.html" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">positions</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> We invite you to support the Andrews University mission by making a <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/services/development/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">donation</a>.</div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> <br /> Please read more about great things happening at Andrews University <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/agenda/feed/Agenda:+Campus+News/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">here</a>.</div> </div> Thu, 08 Oct 2026 11:03:26 +0000 Andrews Participates in Brazil Mission Study Tour http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/70376 <p> From June 7–21, a group of 35 students, faculty and staff from Andrews University participated in the 2026 Amazon Brazil Mission Study Tour. Sponsored by the Master of Divinity program, the study tour provided students with opportunities to apply their theological education through immersive cross-cultural ministry. Each participant witnessed God’s work through evangelism, service and partnerships with local churches.</p> <p> The group of 29 students and six employees traveled to Manaus, Brazil, before beginning their journey to remote communities along the Amazon River. Living and traveling aboard a riverboat, the participants worked alongside indigenous church leaders and local communities through children’s ministries, school outreach, home visitation, health expos, music ministry, community service and construction projects. Students also preached a full series of evangelistic meetings in three different communities, sharing the Word of God passionately and powerfully. The experience allowed each individual to serve in practical ways while learning from the faith and resilience of the communities they visited.</p> <p> One of the team’s major projects took place in the village of Puru Puru, where participants helped complete the floor of a new church building. Working alongside local church members, students mixed concrete by hand to provide additional space for the growing Adventist congregation. They also visited local homes, prayed with families, shared Bible messages and supported ministries already established in the community.</p> <p> Master of Divinity student Seongsoo Kim served as a group leader and preached during evangelistic meetings in Puru Puru. “I understand that ministry is not accomplished through my own efforts, but rather through God,” he says. “No matter where I go to carry out my ministry, I know that God’s presence is already there ahead of me.” Kim affirms that the experience strengthened his faith and encouraged him to remain focused on mission in his future ministry.</p> <p> Uarlisson Machado, logistics coordinator for the tour, helped oversee the spiritual and logistical aspects of the program. “The goal was to ensure that the study tour provided not only a well-organized international experience but also a meaningful educational, spiritual and cross-cultural learning opportunity for every participant,” he says.</p> <p> Although the participants faced challenges, including intense heat, adapting to life aboard a riverboat and serving in unfamiliar environments, they returned with a deeper appreciation for global mission. Through their partnership with local churches and communities, students saw how God was working with the people they served.</p> <p> “The greatest lessons in ministry are often learned not in the classroom, but in the mission field, where students discover that God transforms both those who are served and those who serve,” shares Fernando Ortiz, director of the Master of Divinity Program and general coordinator of the tour.</p> <p> The Amazon Brazil Mission Study Tour reflects Andrews University’s commitment to preparing students for Christ-centered service. By combining classroom learning with hands-on ministry experiences, the program equips future leaders to serve with compassion, cultural awareness and a dedication to sharing the gospel around the world.</p> <div> <u font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); box-sizing: border-box;">                    </u></div> <div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> To learn more about studying at Andrews University, please visit <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/admissions/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">Enrollment</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> If you’re interested in joining the Andrews University team, please see the list of available <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/services/hr/job_seekers/index.html" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">positions</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> We invite you to support the Andrews University mission by making a <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/services/development/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">donation</a>.</div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> <br /> Please read more about great things happening at Andrews University <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/agenda/feed/Agenda:+Campus+News/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">here</a>.</div> </div> Thu, 01 Oct 2026 16:44:20 +0000 Building for Hope: Architecture Meets Mission http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/70350 <p> Niki Djordjevic did not arrive at Andrews University planning to use his studies for mission work. When he began the five-year Architecture Program, his motivations were considerably more practical. “I was doing architecture more for the money at first,” Djordjevic admits.</p> <p> A mission trip to Honduras during his third year began to change that perspective.</p> <p> Invited by a friend only two weeks before the trip, Djordjevic traveled with a group that served at an orphanage and in nearby communities. There, he met children with few material possessions whose joy challenged his understanding of fulfillment. “These kids have more joy than me,” he remembers thinking. “What am I doing wrong in life?”</p> <p> Djordjevic returned to Honduras twice and also participated in mission trips to Lebanon. During his third trip to Honduras, he was asked to help replace a deteriorating garage for the woman who operated the orphanage. With only a few days to complete the project, he adapted the design and construction in the face of unexpected challenges. “That was my first time seeing, ‘Maybe I can use architecture for missions,’” he says.</p> <p> That connection was strengthened during his final year at Andrews. As part of the Urban Design Studio class, Djordjevic traveled to Rwanda with his classmates to work with Impact Hope on plans for a School of Excellence and Vocational Training Center for refugee youth. Meeting the students who would eventually use the campus shifted his attention from simply planning buildings to designing for the people who would inhabit them.</p> <p> His experiences ultimately shaped his final architecture studio project. After seeing a previous Andrews project that transformed a shipping container into a medical clinic, Djordjevic contacted Carey Carscallen, professor emeritus of architecture. Carscallen suggested a different need: housing for missionaries serving in Eswatini.</p> <p> Djordjevic and several classmates began transforming a 20-by-8-foot shipping container into a compact dwelling. With limited space, the design incorporates multifunctional areas, including a bed that shares space with a couch and desk.</p> <p> The project quickly expanded beyond the classroom. Djordjevic’s father helped him learn electrical work, plumbing, painting and other construction skills, while his mother provided interior design guidance and helped source materials. Local businesses donated lumber and paint, and individual donors supported construction through <a href="https://www.buildforhope.org">Build for Hope</a>, an initiative Djordjevic created during the project.</p> <p> When the mission organization in Eswatini requested additional housing, other students began constructing a second container using the plans and material lists developed for the first.</p> <p> The first completed unit faced one final obstacle: approximately $8,000 in shipping costs. Djordjevic says he prayed about how the project would reach Africa. Then, an anonymous donor covered the full amount. “I almost started crying,” he says. “At one point, you just can’t deny that God is leading.”</p> <p> The container has been shipped to Eswatini, packed not only with its furnishings but also with hundreds of boxes of clothing, books and donated tools. Djordjevic has traveled with Carscallen to complete the installation and spend several weeks with the community.</p> <p> Looking back, Djordjevic says Andrews taught him that professional training and mission do not have to exist separately. “You can’t teach mission without doing mission,” he says. “Andrews definitely showed me that I can take my gifts and talents and my profession and use it for God.”</p> Thu, 24 Sep 2026 17:04:25 +0000 Andrews Professors Contribute to New Textbook http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/69508 <p> Andrews University professors recently contributed a number of chapters to a new textbook, “Rethinking the Composition of the Pentateuch,” which was published in April 2026 by Hendrickson Publishers.</p> <p> The editors of the textbook include Kenneth Bergland, assistant professor of Old Testament studies at the Adventist International Institute of Advanced Studies, Roy E. Gane, professor of Old Testament at Andrews University, Gary A. Rendsburg, professor of biblical studies, Hebrew language and ancient Judaism at Rutgers University, and A. Rahel Wells, professor of Old Testament at Andrews University. The volume was collaboratively created by the Exploring the Composition of the Pentateuch (ECP) research team, which includes 38 scholars from a variety of faith traditions. The book contains over forty essays, written in a concise, comprehensive and accessible manner.</p> <p> Exploring the Composition of the Pentateuch is an international and inter-religious research project on the origin and writing of the Pentateuch (otherwise known as the Torah, the five books of Moses, or Genesis through Deuteronomy) and the foundational scriptures of Judeo-Christian religion.</p> <p> “It is widely recognized that current scholarship on the origin of the Pentateuch has been undergoing a breakdown of constructive dialogue between scholarly communities due to fundamental differences of presuppositions and methodologies between them,” observe the leaders of the ECP group. “Against this background, the ECP research team aims to engage the most up-to-date evidence in order to develop a positive model of the composition of the Pentateuch.”</p> <p> Scholarship on the origin of the Pentateuch has seen significant discoveries during recent decades, accompanied by many differing scholarly theories. “The ECP group is convinced by the biblical data that the best evidence supports the reliability and coherence of the Pentateuch as it presents itself,” say ECP leaders. “Simultaneously, there is a need to reject simplistic readings of the Pentateuch and acknowledge that it is a highly sophisticated and artistic text written in a way that is often foreign to modern culture.”</p> <p> The scholars participating in the ECP project represent Evangelical, Seventh-day Adventist, Catholic and Jewish faith traditions. While the majority are from the United States, there are also members working in Brazil, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Israel, Lebanon and the Philippines. The ECP project initially began as a small, student-led project at Andrews University, started by Bergland and Felipe Masotti. An inaugural conference was held in 2016, and the project has greatly expanded over several years. Seventh-day Adventist scholars—including Bergland, Masotti, Wells and Gane—have led in organizing the conferences and work of the group.</p> <p> Most recently, the fourth Exploring the Composition of the Pentateuch Conference took place from Sept. 14–16, 2025. An international team of scholars gathered at Andrews University to present papers and discuss the composition of the Pentateuch. The group focused on revisiting key passages in the scholarly debate to show how source and redaction critical theories are inadequate explanations. They also found convincing explanations of textual phenomena that align better with the self-testimony of the pentateuchal books themselves.</p> <p> Based on conference findings, the ECP research team has published two volumes of a four-volume research series. The initial book, published after the first conference, was printed by Eisenbrauns/Penn State University Press in the “Bulletin for Biblical Research Supplement” series with the title “Exploring the Composition of the Pentateuch.” The second volume was published in the same series at the end of 2025, the third will be released in the fall of 2026 and the fourth will come out at the beginning of 2027.</p> <p> Work on the upcoming 2026 volume, based on recent conference papers, has already begun. The ECP group will meet for a fifth Exploring the Composition of the Pentateuch conference in September 2027.</p> <div> <u font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); box-sizing: border-box;">                    </u></div> <div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> To learn more about studying at Andrews University, please visit <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/admissions/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">Enrollment</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> If you’re interested in joining the Andrews University team, please see the list of available <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/services/hr/job_seekers/index.html" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">positions</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> We invite you to support the Andrews University mission by making a <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/services/development/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">donation</a>.</div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> <br /> Please read more about great things happening at Andrews University <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/agenda/feed/Agenda:+Campus+News/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">here</a>.<span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">  </span></div> </div> Wed, 05 Aug 2026 11:17:08 +0000 Andrews University Hosts Founding of NESTX http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/69506 <p> On March 29, 2026, the Adventist Innovation Network (NESTX) was officially launched as an international organization bringing together Adventist institutions of higher education to promote innovation rooted in mission. The network functions as a global platform for collaboration focused on applied research, technology transfer, industry collaboration and entrepreneurship within the Adventist education system.</p> <p> “I believe NESTX comes at a crucial moment. Higher education is experiencing significant change, and no institution can face these challenges alone. … NESTX seeks to unite Adventist universities through innovation, research and entrepreneurship, fostering an ecosystem where faculty, students, and leaders can work together more efficiently, achieve greater impact, and carry out our educational mission with relevance and purpose,” shares George Perez, associate professor of management and marketing at Walla Walla University.</p> <p> The inaugural NESTX General Assembly was held over three days, from March 27–29, at Andrews University. The event combined in person and virtual participation, allowing academic leaders and innovation directors from different countries to participate.</p> <p> The assembly brought together representatives from Seventh-day Adventist institutions of higher education in the United States, Mexico, Chile, Peru, Argentina, Bolivia, Colombia, the Dominican Republic and Brazil, among other countries. In total, representatives from 13 universities belonging to the North American, Inter American and South American Divisions participated, reflecting the global and interdivisional character of the initiative.</p> <p> “The Founding General Assembly marked the moment when a shared dream became an institutional reality,” affirms Andrés Díaz, director of the research and development center at Universidad de Montemorelos. “As a result, NESTX begins its journey not merely as a partnership of institutions, but as a unified international community committed to advancing innovation, research, entrepreneurship and technology transfer in support of the Seventh-day Adventist educational mission.”</p> <p> Participating institutions included Andrews University, Universidad de Montemorelos, Universidad de Navojoa, Universidad Adventista de Chile, Universidad Linda Vista, Universidad Peruana Unión, Universidad Adventista del Plata, Universidad Adventista de Bolivia, Faculdade Adventista do Paraná, Centro Universitário Adventista de São Paulo, Corporación Universitaria Adventista Colombia, Universidad Adventista Dominicana, Southwestern Adventist University and Walla Walla University.</p> <p> Activities began on Friday with an Innovation Forum, where key topics related to educational innovation, applied research and interinstitutional collaboration were addressed. The forum highlighted the importance of working collaboratively through networks to respond to the current challenges facing Adventist higher education.</p> <p> On Saturday, a networking dinner took place, hosted by Anneris Coria Navia and Sócrates Quispe, associate directors of the Department of Education of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. The event fostered relationship building, the exchange of experiences, and the development of new opportunities for collaboration among presidents, vice presidents, innovation directors, researchers and institutional representatives.</p> <p> “Our Adventist heritage reminds us that our pioneers were disruptive thinkers, courageous innovators, and visionary leaders. … By working together through initiatives like NestX, we can honor that legacy, amplify our collective strengths, and create solutions that make a lasting impact on our campuses, our communities and the world,” shares Licci Zemleduch, assistant professor of business administration at Southwestern Adventist University.</p> <p> The central moment of the General Assembly occurred on Sunday, March 29, with the Founding Charter of NESTX, under the leadership of Coria-Navia and Quispe. During this session, the NESTX bylaws were presented and approved, the Executive Committee was elected, and the Founding Charter was formally signed. As part of this process, Matías Soto, director of the Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship at Andrews University, was elected president of the network, assuming leadership of NESTX. Soto’s appointment underscores the network’s commitment to a strategic vision of innovation, international collaboration and the development of mission focused academic ecosystems.</p> <p> As part of NESTX’s official establishment, the appointment of divisional representatives was also formalized. Alcides Flores, faculty at Universidad Peruana Unión, was appointed vice president and representative of the South American Division; Zemleduch and Perez were appointed representatives of the North American Division; Díaz was designated representative of the Inter American Division; and Márcio Araújo, faculty at Faculdade Adventista do Paraná, and Nicolás Quaranta, manager of Human Resources at Universidad Adventista del Plata, were named representatives of the South American Division. The additional appointments of Jhon Niño, faculty member at Corporación Universitaria Adventista Colombia, and Ana Quirós, vice president for academic affairs at Universidad Adventista de Centro América, as representatives of the Inter-American Division were also completed at a later date. These designations strengthen NESTX’s governance structure and reinforce its interdivisional collaboration from its foundational stage.</p> <p> The gathering concluded with the presentation of the elected Executive Committee, the conferral of recognitions and the official closing of the General Assembly. Through the creation of NESTX, Adventist education reaffirms its commitment to an innovative, collaborative and mission faithful future. Flores notes, “NESTX aspires to amplify the collective impact of Adventist higher education, enabling its institutions to transform lives, advance knowledge, and extend Christ-centered service to their communities and to the world.”</p> <p> For more information or to inquire about joining NESTX, visit their <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/nestx-adventist-innovation/">LinkedIn page</a> or email <a href="mailto:director@nest-x.org">director@nest-x.org</a>.</p> <div> <u font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); box-sizing: border-box;">                    </u></div> <div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> To learn more about studying at Andrews University, please visit <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/admissions/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">Enrollment</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> If you’re interested in joining the Andrews University team, please see the list of available <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/services/hr/job_seekers/index.html" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">positions</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> We invite you to support the Andrews University mission by making a <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/services/development/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">donation</a>.</div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> <br /> Please read more about great things happening at Andrews University <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/agenda/feed/Agenda:+Campus+News/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">here</a>.<span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">  </span></div> </div> Tue, 04 Aug 2026 09:46:00 +0000 Summer Graduation 2026 at Andrews University http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/69475 <p> Andrews University’s Summer Graduation will take place during the weekend of July 31–Aug. 2, 2026. Events will begin on Friday with a Vespers service, followed by a Baccalaureate service on Sabbath and two Commencement services on Sunday morning.</p> <p> Both Commencement services will take place at the Andreasen Center for Wellness, and the Friday Vespers and Baccalaureate service will be held at Pioneer Memorial Church. Please note that in order to provide adequate seating for the families of graduates, there are two Commencement services with reserved seating only.</p> <p> Additional academic and cultural programs are planned throughout the graduation weekend. For a complete list, please consult the online schedule at <a href="http://andrews.edu/graduation/schedule/">andrews.edu/graduation/schedule/</a>.</p> <p> The Baccalaureate on Sabbath, Aug. 1, at 11:45 a.m., will be delivered by Erton Köhler, president of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. Köhler completed a bachelor’s degree in theology and a master’s degree in pastoral theology from the Adventist Teaching Institute (now Brazilian Adventist University) and is graduating with a Doctor of Ministry from Andrews University. He has served the South American Division (SAD) of Seventh-day Adventists as a pastor, Youth Ministries director and executive secretary. In 2007, he became president of SAD, and in 2025, he was elected to his current role.</p> <p> Monica Reed, regional president and CEO for AdventHealth Great Lakes Region and president and CEO of UChicago Medicine AdventHealth, will offer the 8:30 a.m. Commencement address on Sunday, Aug. 2, for students of the College of Arts and Sciences, College of Health & Human Services and College of Professions. She earned a Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Medicine from Loma Linda University, as well as a Master of Science from the University of Oxford. A nationally recognized health care executive and physician leader with more than three decades of experience, Reed drives mission-centered growth and leadership excellence across complex organizational systems.</p> <p> Honorary degree candidate H. Melvin Ming will be recognized at this service. Ming graduated from Temple University and went on to attain the rank of staff sergeant in the U.S. Army. He began his career in the field of finance before transitioning to multiple executive leadership roles across public media. In 1999, he joined Sesame Workshop and went on to become president and chief executive officer of the organization. He retired in 2014, leaving a legacy of stewardship, excellence and team building. Ming has also served on various church, nonprofit and corporate boards, investing deeply in mentoring organizations and future leaders.</p> <p> The 11:30 a.m. Commencement service on Sunday will honor graduates from the College of Education & International Services and Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary. Audrey Andersson, general vice president for the Seventh-day Adventist World Church, will be the speaker. Andersson will also be recognized with an honorary degree during the service. She holds a bachelor’s degree in theology and a master’s degree in pastoral ministry. In 2003, Andersson began serving as executive secretary of the Swedish Union of Churches Conference and, in 2010, became executive secretary of the Trans-European Division of Seventh-day Adventists, before moving to her current role in 2022.</p> <p> Select graduation services will be livestreamed. For more details, visit <a href="http://andrews.edu/graduation/">andrews.edu/graduation/</a>.</p> <div> <u font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); box-sizing: border-box;">                    </u></div> <div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> To learn more about studying at Andrews University, please visit <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/admissions/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">Enrollment</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> If you’re interested in joining the Andrews University team, please see the list of available <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/services/hr/job_seekers/index.html" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">positions</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> We invite you to support the Andrews University mission by making a <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/services/development/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">donation</a>.</div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> <br /> Please read more about great things happening at Andrews University <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/agenda/feed/Agenda:+Campus+News/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">here</a>.</div> </div> Mon, 27 Jul 2026 12:21:46 +0000 A Mission Without Borders http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/69398 <p> This year, Andrews University celebrates 15 years since Griggs University and Griggs International Academy moved to Andrews. The collaboration has strengthened Adventist distance education while expanding opportunities for thousands of students from more than 50 countries.</p> <p> “For more than a century, Griggs has served students whose circumstances make traditional education difficult or impossible. Whether separated by geography, work, family responsibilities, political barriers or limited access to educational opportunities, students have found a pathway to learning through distance education,” says La Ronda Forsey, principal of Griggs International Academy.</p> <p> In 1909, Seventh-day Adventist education embraced an idea that was ahead of its time. Church leaders recognized that many members and workers around the world were unable to attend a traditional school due to factors including geography, work responsibilities, family obligations and distance.</p> <p> In an effort to remove these barriers, the Fireside Correspondence School was founded in Maryland by Adventist educational pioneer Frederick Griggs. Lessons were delivered by mail, allowing students to study wherever they lived. The early years were marked by steady growth and adaptation, and the institution became the Home Study Institute in 1931.</p> <p> A significant milestone came in 1990 when the Maryland Higher Education Commission granted permission for the institution to offer degree programs. This marked the beginning of Griggs University and expanded the school’s impact beyond K–12 education. While Griggs had served learners at multiple educational levels throughout its history, this decision opened a new chapter of higher education opportunities for Adventist students worldwide.</p> <p> As technology advanced, Griggs continued to evolve. The K–12 division became Griggs International Academy in 2003, reflecting its growing international reach and commitment to serving students beyond traditional geographic boundaries.</p> <p> Another transformative chapter began in 2010. After an extensive study by a General Conference commission on distance education, church leaders recommended that Griggs University become part of Andrews University. The recommendation reflected a growing recognition that distance education would play an important role in serving the worldwide church.</p> <p> After careful planning, Griggs officially relocated from Maryland to the Andrews University campus in Berrien Springs, Michigan, in 2011. Then in 2015, Griggs University became fully integrated into the Andrews University structure through the School of Distance Education, while Griggs International Academy continued to operate independently within the same school. This strategic partnership brought together the experience and heritage of Griggs with the academic resources and global influence of Andrews University.</p> <p> In March 2024, the Andrews University Board of Trustees voted to reorganize the School of Distance Education into the Andrews University Global Campus. The new name reflects a broader vision for online learning, international partnerships and innovative educational delivery for students from kindergarten through higher education.</p> <p> Today, students connect to the Global Campus from cities, local schools, villages, mission fields, military bases and homes around the world. Through direct enrollment, partnerships with Adventist schools and innovative online learning models, they receive a fully accredited, faith-based education regardless of where they live.</p> <p> “As Adventist education looks toward the future, new technologies will continue to reshape how education is delivered. Yet the most important elements remain unchanged: caring teachers, meaningful relationships, academic excellence and a commitment to helping students develop a deeper connection with Jesus Christ,” says Janine Lim, dean of the Global Campus.</p> <p> For 117 years, Griggs has served students with dedication and care. While the classroom may look different from what it was in 1909, the vision of the Andrews University Global Campus remains the same: preparing students around the world for lives of service today and for God’s kingdom tomorrow.</p> <p> If you or someone you know would like to be a part of our Global Campus, find out more <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/global/about/index.html" target="_blank">here</a>!</p> Wed, 01 Jul 2026 15:52:29 +0000