GCU student Ali Kissane landed a teaching job months before her expected graduation.
By Mike Kilen
GCU News Bureau
Ali Kissane is standing before her high school English class this week teaching the classic novel “The Great Gatsby.” It was one of her favorites as a high school student, which wasn’t that long ago.
She attributes her good fortune — finding a job well before her expected April graduation — to expert guidance of GCU faculty and a high demand for teachers in Arizona, a longtime shortage worsened by the COVID-19 crisis.
“I put everything into teaching, so I’m confident in my ability, but it shows how desperate this state is for teachers,” Kissane said. “There is a huge need for teachers in Arizona.”
The Arizona School Personnel Administrators Association’s annual survey, released in September, showed a teacher shortage in Arizona for the sixth consecutive year with 28% of teacher vacancies remaining unfilled. The association also noted that COVID-19 is impacting staffing as more teachers and staff are quitting or taking unpaid leaves of absence.
GCU is one of the top suppliers of teachers to Arizona schools and is seeing graduates get jobs even before a diploma.
“We are so proud of our students for taking a successful early leap into their teaching careers to help with the teacher shortage,” said Dr. Kimberly LaPrade, Dean of the College of Education. “This is a testament to their preparation, especially the role our faculty has played in ensuring our teacher candidates are ready to fly.”
Kissane was ready to take off full time in the classroom even before she did student teaching, thanks in part to faculty who encouraged her to fully engage in her practicum at Sunrise Mountain High School in Peoria.
They told her to go beyond the essential observation in practicums and also attend meetings, even if it’s not expected, engage and network and take advantage of opportunities to practice classroom skills.
So when she heard of an opening at the school last spring and got an interview, Kissane could show that she already had significant experience there.
She is taking evening classes online at GCU to finish her degree in English in Secondary Education.
“I have the best professors in the world, and I wouldn’t be able to do this without them,” she said, specifically giving a nod to Dr. Jim Mostofo.
Kissane always knew she wanted to be a teacher, often playing the role as a young girl with friends, and now years later students seek her out because they’re comfortable in her room, she said.
“This is why I became a teacher. I want to help them learn but I also want to be there for them, which is really needed in high school,” Kissane said. “A lot of times people forget that.”
Other GCU students have proved classroom ready while still in college.
Erika McCormick
Erika McCormick was offered a job at Sunset Heights Elementary School in Peoria while still student teaching last fall.
“Literally, the day I got my teaching certificate (last December), I started the next day,” she said.
The fourth grade teacher was so adept at online instruction that when many teachers recently returned to in-person classes, she filled the needed role for students who don’t feel safe to return to classrooms.
Her GCU education prepared her for a curriculum rich with use of technology.
“I took it as an opportunity to try something new. It has been cool to see how we can incorporate technology into education,” she said. “There are some kids that struggle and some who thrive online, even in ways they never expected to.”
She also found her purpose, which she never considered before – supporting students online in a very difficult time.
“It’s not just how you support them academically but socially,” she said. “There is a huge social barrier without seeing their friends.”
McCormick adds “hang-out” time for the children to log online as a group and socialize outside of class instruction. She decorates her classroom and gives virtual tours. She showcases children’s words and pictures to share with the class, helping form a more unified community.
The skills that derive from a nationally accredited teacher preparation program at GCU support schools nationwide but also closer to home, in the Peoria Unified School District where Kissane and McCormick are teaching.
Dr. Carter Davidson, the district’s Chief Personnel Officer, said GCU’s well-trained student teachers serve as classroom teachers, which “helps the district fill essential instruction roles during a global pandemic and build a pipeline of quality educators.”
Emily Oestmann
Emily Oestmann met her first grade class for the first time last week after student teaching online and said she has been offered a job at Mirage Elementary School in Glendale before her expected December GCU graduation.
“The demand is so high in every school district for special education; I know a lot of teachers who have quit because it is so different than how school typically is with virtual learning. It’s hard for people who have taught a certain way for so many years to adapt,” she said.
“At GCU, Dr. Rebekah Dyer and Dr. Stephanie Nilsen helped me understand new technology for teaching kids in special education.”
Oestmann said her older brother is special needs and her parents are teachers, so it was a natural interest. But she also worked hard on a dual degree – Early Childhood Education and Early Childhood Special Education with a minor in psychology — that put in her in demand.
As her students filed into class, she had assumed double duty here, too: “Sanitize, sanitize, sanitize.”
“Especially with 6-year-olds who are messy — one student even used his mask as a tissue. It’s hard to keep them clean,” she said.
But like other GCU students soon to graduate, Oestmann is thrilled to be early to the front lines, filling a vital role in a time of great need for children.
“It’s different seeing them with their masks and at a distance,” she said, “but just to see them is such a blessing.”
Grand Canyon University senior writer Mike Kilen can be reached at mike.kilen@gcu.edu or at 602-639-6764.
By Kristan Farley GCU Office of Student Care #Askingforafriend
We often use “good” and “bad” to define a person. We want to be “good.” It creates high distress when someone believes we are “bad.”
Some define a “good person” as a person without flaws or limitations. If this is the case, each time we notice a flaw or limitation it can induce an agonizing feeling. That feeling and the root of most distress is shame, which says you are uniquely and permanently flawed – bad.
Shame can feel like a burning feeling in our body, maybe in the chest or gut. It is miserable. We want to avoid that miserable feeling at all cost. Once we find something that mitigates the feeling, we cling to it.
Sometimes the things we do to manage our shame are to blame others to show we are good and they are bad. We can get angry, controlling or withdrawn. We can binge on alcohol, drugs, sex, eating, shopping, social media, even exercise to distract us from the pain.
Often we feel bad about what we did to avoid feeling shame, which only increases shame. So we do something destructive again, which is a relentless cycle.
Love and grace help break the cycle. All humans make mistakes. Instead of using terms like “good” or “bad” or “perfect” or “failure,” we instead can view humans as valuable with a unique design, worthy of love and compassion. We make mistakes as we grow and mature through life. We are valuable in the process.
If we know we even have value in our limitations, then we are much more willing to allow others to be authentically themselves, too. If we can forgive ourselves and do the next right thing, we are less judgmental of ourselves and as a result less judgmental of others.
You are not “good” or “bad.” You are a unique design, a person of great value who is growing and maturing into the best version of yourself.
Ultimately, we can learn to let love and acceptance overcome shame. Over time, the feeling of shame decreases and our ability to give grace to others and ourselves increases. We can break the destructive cycle and continue to mature and grow in healthy ways.
Here are some steps to reduce shame and move toward acceptance and love:
Notice the physical feeling shame is for you (pain in chest/gut, etc).
Recognize what you do to numb that feeling (get angry, eat, binge watch, etc.).
Remind yourself that you have great value, worthy of love and compassion. (Take deep breaths as you say this.)
If you made a mistake, as all humans do, you can have the courage to make amends.
If you get stuck, you might need help navigating this process. You can contact the GCU Office of Student Care at studentcare@gcu.edu to make an appointment with a therapist who can help you.
Of course you made a mistake. You are human. Just do the next thing right!
By Connie Colbert Director, Canyon Health and Wellness Clinic
Gum disease, otherwise known as gingivitis, is often a silent disease that can cause permanent damage. Symptoms may not appear until an advanced stage of the disease.
Warning signs of gum disease include the following:
Red, swollen or tender gums or other pain in your mouth
Bleeding while brushing, flossing or eating hard food
Gums that are receding or pulling away from the teeth, causing the teeth to look longer than before
Loose or separating teeth
Pus between your gums and teeth
Sores in your mouth
Persistent bad breath
A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
A change in the fit of partial dentures
Millions of people do not know they have this serious infection, which can lead to tooth loss if not treated.
Why do we get gum disease?
The problem begins with bacteria. Our mouths are packed with these tiny microbes. They combine with mucus and other particles to form a sticky, colorless film, called plaque, on our teeth.
Brushing and flossing can get rid of some plaque. But any that remains can harden and form tartar, a yellowish deposit that can become attached to your teeth. Plaque and tartar buildup can then lead to gum disease.
You usually can reverse gum disease with daily brushing and flossing and regular cleanings by a dentist or dental hygienist. Untreated gingivitis can lead to periodontitis.
If you have periodontitis, the gums pull away from the teeth and form pockets that become infected. If untreated, the bones, gums and connective tissue that support the teeth are destroyed.
Smoking also greatly increases your risk for gum disease, so there is another reason not to smoke.
Although many aspects of gum disease are still being investigated, one thing is clear: Controlling gum disease can save your teeth. That alone is an excellent reason to take good care of your teeth and gums every day.
Years at GCU: Three months full-time faculty; adjunct faculty, in person and online, since 2013.
Academic degrees: B.S. in Elementary Education, 2004, and Master’s in Reading, 2007, both from Slippery Rock University.
What has it been like to start a position at home?
It has been extremely successful, in part because of the immense support my manager and team provide me. I have a few mentor faculty members who have taught me everything I need to know about my courses and the GCU community. The faculty is caring, collaborative and creative, often sharing innovative strategies to engage our students around the country. As adjunct faculty for so many years, I even am meeting current faculty whom I had in the reading courses I taught. It is very exciting to see that even in such a big world, the education community is small and comes full circle.
What is your most notable accomplishment in your field, and why was it important?
I have been a reading specialist and literacy leader for some time now. In the past few years, I have been an advocate for more intensive professional development for teachers to provide reading interventions that specifically support students who struggle with reading and writing. After years of grant writing and proposals at my previous district, several intervention staff, myself included, were trained in a systematic, multisensory reading intervention program. This had a huge effect on our intervention program, special education department and the students we served.
What are you most passionate about in your field and why?
If it’s good for kids, first, then good for teachers, why not go for it? I am very passionate about quality teacher professional development across the curriculum, including strong literacy instruction and social-emotional learning. I am and will always be a cheerleader for educators and believe that a teacher can make a difference in the lives of children.
I have become so passionate about education because of the research I did during my master’s program on teacher efficacy, the mentorship I received during my years of teaching and the spirit to never stop learning. If something wasn’t working for a child or teacher, I read, I researched, I watched teaching videos and found another way. One size does not fit all in the world of education.
What is a memorable moment you had in class, and what does that reveal about your teaching style?
In 2019-20, I served as principal at my charter school and found a third grade classroom in need of a teacher. With the support of my team, I stepped back into the classroom for nine weeks until we could find a suitable replacement. Yes, while I was still principal. I knew so many of the families and students since they were in kindergarten, and I couldn’t bear to let them down.
After being in administration for several years, standing at the front of that room brought this sense of peace during a chaotic time. The students and families were so grateful for the time I spent in that classroom, and we were blessed to find a wonderful teacher for the remainder of their year. Later that year we found out that third grade had tremendous academic gains on our district and state assessments.
My teaching style and leadership style align with what I am most passionate about: Whatever is good for kids must be priority No. 1.
What do you like to do for fun in your spare time?
I am the designated chef of my family and have become quite skilled. My new favorite kitchen necessity is the Instant Pot. Our family also enjoys freshly made juice and smoothies while we have family game nights or watch a movie. I love to dabble in essential oils and when I say dabble, I have more than I can count. I enjoy reading, spending time with my sister and nieces, and thrifting with my teenage daughter. Finally, I just joined the PTO at my daughter’s high school and serve as the historian.
What is something interesting about you that most people don’t know?
I was born in Athens and lived there for four years while my father served in the Air Force. I’ve lived in Maryland, California, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Kansas before settling in Arizona.
My move to Arizona, ironically, resulted from the hundreds of teaching applications I submitted on the East Coast. I had the most difficult time finding my first teaching job even after receiving my master’s degree. My parents had retired in Arizona years earlier, and my mother knew of a position for a sixth grade reading teacher. After a phone interview with the administration, I was hired! My husband, 1-year-old daughter and two cats took the long trek from Pennsylvania to Arizona.
Still to this day, I am amazed and feel incredibly blessed at the journey that has brought me from sixth grade teacher, then elementary teacher, to reading specialist, adjunct faculty, school administrator and now full-time faculty at GCU. It was arduous along the way, but I would never change any of my experiences because they taught me to never give up on my dreams.
By Kayla Hartson Student Fitness Program Coordinator
Get your heart rate up with this challenging cardio workout! This workout is perfect to fit in right when you wake up, during your work break or before you go to bed.
Don’t forget to include a quick warmup to safely increase your heart rate and warm up your muscles. After you complete the workout, take a couple of minutes to cool down and do some static stretches. Click here to read a previous article about how to stretch during a warmup and cooldown.
The more rounds you complete, the more intense your workout will be! Also, you can add dumbbells to make the exercises more challenging.
Don’t have dumbbells? Use water bottles, laundry detergent, soup cans or a heavy backpack. Be creative at home and add resistance to your workout!
Visit Myrec.gcu.edu to sign up for a fitness facility reservation on campus. Follow the Student Fitness Centers on Instagram at @gcu.sfc for more workout tips and ideas on how to live an active lifestyle!
GCU biology instructor Rachel Pikstein, pictured at Cambridge University, and her Research and Design Project students created a plant guidebook to help Indonesian oil palm farmers farm more sustainably.
By Lana Sweeten-Shults
GCU News Bureau
Kelly Gaines and Laura Eichenmuller were two of the student researchers who worked on the three-year project.
Some 9,294 miles from the Phoenix Sonoran Desert, the red-and-white-blister-spotted corpse flower – spanning 40 inches wide and weighing in at a hefty 22 pounds — holds stubbornly to the floor of the Sumatran rainforest, a sprawling, verdant, rich, soupy ecosystem of mangroves and durian, teak and woody rattan, ironwood and towering 35-foot palm trees.
It was on one of those palm trees that a bird’s nest fern the size of a Volkswagen Beetle settled, collecting water from its host.
Oddly, that a fern could grow to the size of a small car wasn’t what amazed scientists.
“A single bird’s nest fern the size of a car can alter climate in a 3-mile radius by more than 2 degrees,” said Rachel Pikstein, instructor in the Grand Canyon University Biology Department.
That discovery created such an “Oh-my-goodness-Martha!” moment that it started the wheels turning for scientists with the BEFTA Program (that’s the Biodiversity and Ecosystem Function in Tropical Agriculture Program). Its aim is to understand how oil palm ecosystems work and to help the oil palm industry – an industry under scrutiny for its destruction of the rainforest — become more sustainable.
A truck unloads freshly harvested oil palm fruit bunches at a collection point.
Scientists started to think, what can we do to make sure those car-sized ferns don’t disappear so they can continue to have a say in the world? What can we do to preserve the ecological wonder that is the rainforest? And, at the same time, how can we realistically help Indonesian farmers?
It’s a program Pikstein became involved with in the summer of 2016 as a visiting scientist at Cambridge University after completing her master’s degree. It is through her connection with BEFTA that GCU’s science students have been able to contribute to that organization’s research.
A GCU Research and Design Program team in the Pikstein Lab has spent the last three years researching more than 120 Indonesian rainforest understory plants, which for oil palm farms are all the plants on that plot of land except for the crop being grown. The research is detailed in a plant guidebook, which is in the editing stage, designed to help oil palm farmers farm in a more rainforest-friendly way.
It started with a dream
Pikstein dreamed about studying at Cambridge. Although that wasn’t to be, she tried another route: “I sent a bunch of emails and asked if they’d be willing to let me come work with them because it had been my dream.”
Dr. Edgar Turner invited Pikstein to Cambridge as a visiting scientist.
One of her emails reached Dr. Edgar Turner, insect curator at the University of Cambridge’s Museum of Zoology. He invited her to the university to help process the data that researchers collected in two trips to Indonesia over the summer. Under the mentorship of Turner and Dr. Jason Head, co-discoverer of monster snake the Titanoboa, not only did she catalogue spiders, but she worked on an understory vegetation project (a paper on which she is listed as an author was published in 2019).
Just before she returned to America, she was tapped to help out with one more project.
“They said, ‘We want you to understand this. They gave me this huge list of plants and basically said, would you and your students like to make a guidebook that we can publish that will be used as a reference not only for the researchers but for the farmers in the industry?’”
Pikstein and her students at GCU – alumni Laura Eichenmuller, Kelly Gaines, Jordyn Cobb, Gian Luigi Jequinto, Hannah David and junior Briana Munoz — jumped at the chance even though Indonesia and the oil palm industry seem like far-away concerns that have nothing to do with life here.
But that couldn’t be further from the truth.
A contributor of deforestation
Palm oil, which comes from the fruit of the oil palm, can be found in everything from lipstick to shampoo and biofuel.
Palm oil, an edible vegetable oil that comes from the fruit of oil palm trees, is ubiquitous.
“It’s in lipstick, shampoo, soap. It can be found in packaged bread, chocolate, detergent, pizza. It’s in so many of these products,” said Hannah David, team lead in 2019-20 of the GCU student researchers on the project and now a master’s student in forensic science at the University of California-Davis. It’s also in animal feed and is used as a biofuel.
According to the World Wildlife Fund, palm oil is in nearly 50% of the packaged products found in supermarkets, likely because the world’s most popular food oil — often listed on packaging as vegetable oil – is so versatile. It’s odorless and colorless and doesn’t alter the taste or look of food. It gives products a longer shelf life and is semi-solid at room temperature, so it helps food retain a certain spreadability. It also is less saturated than butter and has no trans fats.
For farmers, the crop requires less land to grow, and there’s the economic impact of the crop.
But here’s the problem: Palm oil is a major contributor of deforestation.
Hannah David was team lead in 2019-20 of the GCU student researchers on the project.
“They’re seeing the profit but not realizing they’re taking away the very diverse (rainforest) plants,” David said.
Rainforests in Indonesia, the largest palm oil producer in the world (it supplied 56% of the world’s palm oil in 2018), are burned to make way for oil palm plantations, causing not only deforestation but carbon dioxide-fueled pollution that irritates the eyes and skin. Officials say 80% of the fires in Indonesia are set to clear land for oil palm plantations.
And as the rainforests burn, animals who live in them, such as the Orangutan, pygmy elephant and Sumatran rhino, are losing their habitats.
Honors College student Briana Munoz, a junior biology major and researcher on the project, learned about the oil palm industry and its effects on the environment when she was just a freshman in high school.
So when she heard at the end of her college freshman year about this particular RDP Project to create a plant guidebook, she was in.
“I think it’s a really cool way to have my voice be heard about something that I just really care about,” said Munoz, who wants to go to veterinary school and has volunteered at the Phoenix Zoo and interned at the Wildlife World Zoo, among others.
The Orangutan is one of the animals whose habitat has been threatened by oil palm farming.
Munoz is well versed in what has happened to the Indonesian rainforest’s wildlife. Sumatran rhinos have become regionally extinct in Malaysia, in part because of palm oil harvesting, she said, and “with Orangutans, their habitat has decreased between 60% and 80% since 1990, when the palm oil industry started to take off.”
But Munoz also knows the reality: Palm oil is an important product to farmers and their families and to the economic growth of Indonesia, which until recently was classified as a developing country.
“Palm oil in itself is not inherently a bad thing. It’s just the way people have been producing it recently.”
The guidebook
More than 120 plants that can be found on oil palm plantations, such as the one pictured, are included in the guidebook.
In the guidebook, the team details 120-plus plants, from the Axonopus compressus, or blanket grass, to a climbing shrub called the Cissus hastata.
Photos accompany a description of the plant, its Latin name, if it’s a weed, if it’s used for medicinal purposes, where it’s natively found, its toxicity, its benefits and whether it’s considered invasive.
David said one of the plants that stuck with her is the Polygala paniculate, or the root beer plant. “The roots actually smell like root beer because of the compound methyl salicylate, which is commonly found in root beer.”
Putting together the guide was a lot of work, the student researchers said, since a lot of the plants are not common to the U.S. and some were previously undescribed.
“But in the end, we were able to pull together very well,” Munoz added.
Once revisions are complete, the plant guide will be sent to Cambridge for feedback and approval before it is published.
Student researcher Briana Munoz, a biology major, said she likes that her voice is being heard about something she cares about — animals and the environment.
“The guide is giving people an extra option,” Munoz said, of how to farm in more sustainable ways – a reason co-researcher David said she wanted to be a part of the project. She, too, likes to research ways to be sustainable and “be nice to Mother Earth.”
“What my students will tell you, what they’ve always told me, is why they love this project. It’s because it’s not just research on plants,” Pikstein said. It focuses on a bigger problem that everyone thinks no one can do anything about. “ … They said, the thing was, with this project, we got to be a part of that. We’re helping to contribute to saving a 250-million-year-old rainforest across the world.”
She added, “It’s the Christian worldview of helping another culture, helping the animals, preserving God’s place. … As they told me, what they saw was that they were contributing to a greater good.”
Ashlee Larrison has experienced the GCU culture as both an employee and a student.
Editor’s note: My LopeLife is a feature in which GCU students, staff and alumni share enlightening experiences. This time it’s tied to Fall Commencement, scheduled for 10 a.m. Saturday and viewable here. It annually produces inspiring stories of online students, and for GCU Today it hits close to home this year because one of the graduates comes from our department. Here is her story — and, yes, it’s inspiring.
By Ashlee Larrison GCU News Bureau
It’s funny the role choice can play in one’s overall perspective.
If you would have asked me 10 years ago where higher education would take me, to be honest, I probably would have responded with a snarky remark about not even wanting to go to college.
At the time, I had no desire to pursue a bachelor’s degree, let alone a master’s, by the age of 25.
But here I am.
This week, I find myself celebrating my Master of English with an Emphasis in Education degree from Grand Canyon University, which I have grown to respect and appreciate as both a student and an employee.
Sure, I had a plan for my undergraduate degree after finishing high school, but it was one that, at the time, seemed completely dependent on the fact that I would have had to grow up and move out of my parents’ house faster than I would have liked if I wasn’t enrolled in college.
For that reason, the decision to finish my undergraduate degree didn’t really feel like my choice. But I wouldn’t change it for the world because it then led me to GCU, a university that would change my mind.
After graduating with a degree in journalism, I struggled to find a job that fit my degree qualifications and had to begin paying back the student loans I had accrued. Often, I found myself wondering if the effort I had put into getting my degree was even worth it.
Then I was hired as Staff Writer in GCU’s Office of Communications and Public Relations, and that all changed. It began a new phase in my life, one that allowed me to gain a new perspective on my ability. In addition, I got to experience a campus culture that makes me wish I could have been part of it as an undergrad.
I figured that if there ever was a time to see what I was capable of academically, it was now. What started as a trial run grew into an appreciation of the knowledge I was gaining. One A in a class would turn into two and then three, with each class that followed being an opportunity to see how long I could keep straight A’s.
When the pandemic hit, my program was the only thing keeping me sane with all the chaos happening in the world around me.
Yet with the start of every new class came the anxiety of the unknown, and with it ensued more than a fair share of mental breakdowns.
In the middle of my program, I would find myself crying hysterically to my mother over the phone about an assignment that seemed too complicated for my mind to even fathom completing. It was the beginning of the pandemic, I hadn’t left the house in a month, and the routine of completing homework and assignments was beginning to be accompanied by a recurring question: “Why did I decide to do this?”
Now that I have reached the end of my program, I have received the answer:
I am capable of so much more than I give myself credit for.
I made the choice to enroll in graduate school.
I made the choice to push myself.
And I made the choice to graduate.
It’s been a journey that I never in a million years would have thought myself capable of, but God must have known the growth I would find at GCU when He placed me on campus for that interview in the chill of the night after Christmas.
GCU gave me so much more than just a job that night. It gave me a community that allowed me to grow to heights that I never deemed possible. And for that I will always be grateful.
“A Year with Frog and Toad” won seven of the eight ariZoni Awards GCU’s Theatre Department earned this year.
By Ashlee Larrison GCU News Bureau
Ethington Theatre has become a force in the annual ariZoni Awards. This year, Grand Canyon University students secured eight wins.
The reason, says College of Fine Arts and Production Assistant Dean William Symington, is the students and the education they receive in the college.
“I feel like I can believe that it’s just going to get better and better in terms of what we do and our reputation across the country,” he said. “I also think it represents the environment of the University in general. The arts are supported and valued here so that the quality of the productions can remain at a level where we’re competitive.
“The care, the intention and the money that the University puts into a program shows in how well they perform, and that’s really showing as well.”
With last year’s performance of “A Year with Frog and Toad” leading the way, the victories highlight Ethington’s strength in musical theatre. GCU’s winners:
Overall Musical: “A Year with Frog and Toad”
Actor in a Major Role (Musical): Alexander Cavanaugh, “A Year with Frog and Toad”
Actor in a Major Role (Musical): Brandon Brown, “A Year with Frog and Toad”
Actor in a Supporting Role (Musical): Chris Bradford, “A Year with Frog and Toad”
Director (Musical): Debra K. Stevens, “A Year with Frog and Toad”
Musical Direction: Mark Fearey, “A Year with Frog and Toad”
Costume Design: Jay Nguyen, “Arms and the Man”
Hair and Makeup Design: Jay Nguyen, “A Year with Frog and Toad”
This year’s ariZonis were held online because of COVID-19 and featured performances by a number of nominated theatres. Multiple GCU students participated in the performance of “No One Is Alone” from “Into the Woods.” The host was live to announce the winner of each category.
Brandon Brown, who both participated in the final performance and won for his portrayal of Frog in “A Year with Frog and Toad,” described the unique set up of this year’s event and the experience of viewing it with his peers within the theatre department.
“We all got to sort of experience the ceremony together,” Brown said. “It started with our friend Chris Bradford winning the supporting role for Snail, which was extraordinarily exciting … then we just continued on and kept getting the wins for ‘Frog and Toad,’ which was exciting.
“I was with Alex (Cavanaugh) as we both won best lead in a musical, and it couldn’t have worked any better.”
For Cavanaugh, winning the award with his co-lead was both surprising and made total sense to him.
“I did not expect to win at all,” he said. “I think, honestly, it was more than just my particular role and it was the way Brandon and I worked together. I think we had a very solid chemistry and a very solid relationship on stage. I think that’s why we both won together.
“I think when it comes to choosing, they’re like. ‘All right, we want to nominate somebody from Frog and Toad,’ it almost becomes hard to separate Brandon’s performance from mine because we spend the entire time together and it’s all about our relationship.”
Both performers said the awards are an honor they share with the rest of the students who worked on the production. It works to further solidify the love and care that goes into every Ethington production.
“Out of 150 productions that were judged, to win eight in just our company, we represented very well,” Symington said. “We’re incredibly proud of all of our winners from ‘A Year with Frog and Toad.’”
Master’s in Sports Management from Saint Mary’s College of California
Master’s in Human Psychology from Liberty University
What is your most notable accomplishment in your field, and why was it important? One of my accomplishments that comes to mind is working with a number of my former athletes to create their own 501(c)(3) foundations. It allowed us to create a vessel for giving back.
What are you most passionate about in your field and why? There is no doubt my passion is empowering others. When I was working with professional athletes, I took pride in the behind-the-scenes work and setting up my athletes for success. It’s important to connect as people first. When I’m in the classroom, I feel the same way with my students. I want them to bring their stories to life and learn to connect with others in an authentic way.
What is a memorable moment you had in class, and what does that reveal about your teaching style? One moment that stands out to me is when I was teaching athlete management and we had a discussion on social impact. The discussion was around former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick kneeling during the National Anthem. The conversation got extremely heated, and I stepped in because I was close to the situation and knew a lot about it. The students didn’t know where I stood on my opinion of the situation, and that wasn’t important. What was important was that they become respectful of others’ point of view and were willing to listen with an open heart and mind. The next day I received multiple notes thanking me for allowing the conversations to happen. It was a learning moment — I wasn’t going to back away from the tough conversations.
What do you like to do for fun in your spare time? My spare time is spent with my family and working out. Sports are a part of our family’s DNA, so naturally I love watching my kids’ games and being a parent fan. I enjoy running — it’s my me time.
What is something interesting about you that most people don’t know? I was 7 1/2 months pregnant with my son, who is my second child. I was with the Golden State Warriors at the time, and we had a trip to China planned to play two games. There was no backing out, so I made the trip even more interesting — I hiked the Great Wall with our entire team. I didn’t want to say I can’t because I’m pregnant.
GCU President Brian Mueller speaks at the virtual ceremony for Fall Commencement. (Photo by David Kadlubowski)
GCU News Bureau
It began like any other Commencement ceremony at Grand Canyon University: Dr. Tim Griffin reading from Philippians 2:1-4 on the fully decorated stage in GCU Arena.
GCU Provost Dr. Hank Radda shows the new graduates how to do a Lopes Up. (Photo by David Kadlubowski)
So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection in sympathy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind.
Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests but also to the interests of others.
But Fall Commencement this year was anything but normal. The pandemic forced it online, and the Vice President of Student Affairs, Dean of Students and University Pastor was speaking to a camera, not a packed in-person audience.
That didn’t make this Commencement less special than any others, though. Hardly. GCU President Brian Mueller emphasized its importance.
Dr. Lisa Smith, Dean of the College of Nursing and Health Care Professions, records her talk for the ceremony. (Photo by David Kadlubowski)
“I couldn’t be more proud of what our graduates have accomplished during these unprecedented times,” he said. “While COVID-19 conditions still prevent us from having large in-person gatherings such as Commencement, we very much wanted to celebrate our graduates’ accomplishments. They have persevered and responded with grace and determination in order to get to this moment.
“The world needs the intellectual talents, ingenuity, leadership and compassion of GCU’s graduates, and I have no doubt they will go on to accomplish extraordinary things in the future. They will always be part of our Lopes family!”
And these online students still feel part of the Lopes family despite having to celebrate at home. Graduates were asked to share their stories of how they persevered through the pandemic, and their responses show why they will accomplish extraordinary things down the road – because they already have, in many cases with some important help from the University.
I had an awesome counselor, Patrick Hairston, who I can honestly say I would not have been able to do this without. I had contacted so many schools for so many years, but it was Patrick who God persuaded me to call one lazy Saturday afternoon. He was the angel God used to fast-track me to my diploma. Patrick spent more than two hours on the phone with me, getting every last piece dialed in. At the end of that conversation, I was set to begin classes the following Monday.
When COVID hit, I lost all of my childcare. My husband is an essential worker, so he was working harder than ever. I was left with just me and a toddler at home, with no help, during the one time in my entire GCU career that I took three classes at once. It was excruciating! Every night I would stay up until 3 or 4 a.m. I was exhausted, mentally drained and on top of it I had my own fears about the pandemic. It was so overwhelming.
But God always comes through. My teachers provided me grace and mercy while God calmed my heart and kept me going. I managed those three classes with two A’s and a B. I am so grateful for God, for my counselor and for my family (especially my husband). It’s been a long and rough ride, but we’ve finally arrived! Thank you, Jesus! Thank you, GCU!
–Suheer Blundell
****
The pandemic had been a huge blessing for educational change, and I am so glad to be part of this. God has completely and perfectly orchestrated my experience, and I couldn’t feel more thankful for GCU, my counselors, mentors and site supervisor.
Even with everything being virtual, I have been able to teach in the classroom with a mask. Navigating social distancing during student teaching has been a real challenge; however, it will make me an even better teacher to have this experience under my belt.
I am graduating with my master’s degree in Educational Leadership. The biggest obstacle during the pandemic for me was completing clinical hours during times of school closures. The ability to use virtual meeting platforms and video lessons helped me overcome these challenges and become successful in my coursework. This experience enabled me to connect with administrators and teachers across my district and state and develop a new sense of collaboration. I am thankful for God and GCU to allow me to finish my degree in the face of uncertainty.
–Stephen Roberts
****
I used the extra time at home to double up my classes and finish my degree earlier so I can be one step closer to achieving my dreams of obtaining a Doctor of Psychology in Child Psychology. GCU has given me the ability to chase my dreams at my own pace even with all the hectic things that go on in my life without feeling as if I was sacrificing time with my friends and family. As Vivian Greene said, “Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass, it’s about learning to dance in the rain.”
–MiKayla Hayes
****
My mother had 10 children. I am number 10. I have worked extremely hard to make my family, my community and my church proud. My last semester I lost my father, in the middle of a course! I screamed, I cried, I prayed. My mom pushed me to continue, and I overcame it through the grace of God. Now I understand the meaning of “Invictus.”
When the pandemic started, like for many others, my world changed in the midst of so much uncertainty. My work life changed. My husband is a nonessential worker and had to provide full-time distance learning to our four boys (ages 6, 9, 11 and 14) while I fulfilled my role as a registered nurse. Also, we had to have some tough conversations with our inquisitive children about racial inequalities (what it means and what to do from here).
It has been a challenge, but by the grace of God, we have found so many beautiful things to be grateful for despite the ugliness of the pandemic. We have come to embrace time with each other, listen more and really appreciate life.
–Charlisse Bennett
****
I have earned my Master of Science degree in Health Care Administration not only in the face of a worldwide pandemic, but also as my husband and I planned for and welcomed our first child into the world – my graduation day also was my daughter’s first birthday. I am a woman who is now stronger than ever, smarter than ever and a resilient remodel for my family. Thank you, Grand Canyon University!
I earned my master’s in Special Education even though I am learning disabled myself and have been teaching in-person classes since Aug. 17. It has been a challenge with special needs children to get them to use hand sanitizer, keep their face masks on and social distance while also learning Zoom and Google Classrooms. GCU has helped me with my archaic academic skills from my college experience 30 years ago.
I tell my students, “If I can learn with my old brain, then you can do it with your young brain!” I couldn’t have done this without the love, prayers and encouragement from my family, friends and GCU’s amazing staff supporting me, and God’s great plan for me!
–Carri Stolteben
****
I have wanted to obtain my Bachelor of Science in Nursing for many years but couldn’t do it because of family dynamics. I finally made up my mind to go through it in 2019. Even when the world was hit by the pandemic, it did not stop me. I am excited to be among the graduating students. To God be all the glory!
–Elizabeth Ajuronu-Okafor
****
After a 12-year hiatus from college (it was only supposed to be a year), I am grateful to be graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. I am able to show my girls, ages 13 and 7, that my perseverance is only rewarded as a result of the work that was invested into my courses.
Before the pandemic, I home-schooled my youngest child while my oldest attended a local private Christian school. As the pandemic has flipped our educational world upside down, we are now a fully home-schooling household. Education has been the prevalent theme and climate of our home this year. It has been hard at times but immeasurably worthwhile.
–Maria Delgado
****
I gave birth to a beautiful baby girl in February, and she is surviving through a pandemic. That is a blessing within itself, but God didn’t stop there. On Saturday, I graduated with my master’s in Elementary Education. All of the sacrifices and the life changes that I’ve experienced during this journey have paid off. This year I was tested like never before and I came out on top.
This has been a very tough road, but with Christ at the center, failure was not an option. The daily scriptures that my professors posted really helped me to stay focused and continue to strive, even in the midst of a global pandemic. GCU has been an amazing school, and I would recommend it to anyone. I started this journey back in 2017, and God has brought me to the end. All the glory to God!
–Jessica Miller
****
While I faced many challenges this past year, such as having a demanding job and being a sports mom, none compared to July 15, when I tested positive for COVID. I was very ill but managed to keep pushing through, completing my assignments to make it through the class at the time. I wanted to make sure that COVID would not keep me from achieving my goal.
I am still not 100% and have faced some health issues and struggles since then. But the good Lord carried me through, which is why this degree means so much to me. It is proof that I didn’t let anything hold me back and that I continued to fight through the challenges to prove to my two sons that with the good Lord, all things are possible!
–Desiree Ontiveros Sanchez
****
While struggling to complete my B.A. in Christian Studies, I had severely immobilizing back issues. But with the help of the Lord, I was able to finish my degree four days before I had back surgery and am now 100% pain-free, able to walk again and ready to celebrate! I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me (Philippians 4:13). I am truly blessed!
–Maria E. López
****
I am a single mother living in Brooklyn, New York, which at one time was the heart of the pandemic. Everything was ordered to close at once. I had to move my preschool classroom online, my 10-year-old fifth grader and my grad class already were online, managing everything was a struggle, and we were working with only one laptop.
The most difficult time was listening to the news each day and talking with family and friends who were working on the front line. I tried to be a listening ear when they got home from work and needed to talk because I could not give them a shoulder to cry on. I thank God I did not lose any family members or close friends. I did have a few close family friends that had COVID-19 and had to be in the hospital on a ventilator for months.
There were many times I wanted to give up on completing my degree because there was too much going on all around me, and I could not focus on schoolwork. I found the time to just keep working at it, taking it one day at a time. And here I am, graduating with the Class of 2020 with my master’s in Special Education. I give all thanks to God!
–Carmeal Gumbs
****
I am a hospital nurse at one of the worst hit COVID-19 hotspots, the Rio Grande Valley. It was exhausting working in shifts of 12-14 hours in full PPE gear, coming home to my husband and three kids, staying up to do homework, and repeating it all over the next day. However, I managed to keep my 4.0 GPA throughout my BSN program and was on the President’s List twice. I could not be where I am today without God and without the full support of my husband and my family. After 16 years of being an RN, I am proud to say I am now an RN-BSN.
–Diana Ortiz
****
I was able to continue my studies during the pandemic because of the online platform provided by GCU. My classes were not disrupted, which meant that pressure was not an issue. I am proud to come to the end of this program, for continuing to study and for being determined to finish strong. Thanks to the GCU faculty and staff as well as my cohort for this wonderful experience.
I always heard, “There goes Monique with that backpack. She always carries that backpack to every party or event.” To all my kids, there’s one word I would like to give you: dedication. Do not let any roadblock stop you from your dreams.
–Monique Keeles
****
After 31 years, I retired from the school district and decided to return to school to complete what I started in 1982. Not only did I do it for myself, I did it for my deceased mother. I wanted to make her proud and I wanted to be an example for others, showing them that you are never too old to return to school. I love learning and I love GCU.
–Deloise Trotter
****
I am one of those old-school nurses and was scared to go back to school. But when I talked to Jeff at GCU, I was in and the rest is history. I would like to thank the GCU staff, professors and my classmates who were with me during this journey. It was not possible without all the help and support provided by each and every one of you. If I can do it, you can, too, and I am sure GCU will make it possible for you.
–Ravinder Kaur
****
If the graduation ceremony had been in person, I still wouldn’t have been walking down the aisle after earning my Special Education degree with honors. Because of the pandemic, it wasn’t possible for me. I feel as if I have worked so hard to get this degree but am not able to get recognized for it. But I’m very fortunate that GCU was there with me every step of the way. Thank you, Grand Canyon University, for all that you have done. You made my dreams come true.
–Heather Phelps
****
My decision to change careers at this stage of my life was quite interesting but has taken quite a turn this year. After the realization hit of how the “new normal” will be, it was an adjustment for me and my family — particularly when I was laid off because of the pandemic. I reorganized my educational approach, asked for help from my family and friends and, with a clear focus, was able to conquer this obstacle. The journey seemed so long, but now I am starting a new one.
–Sarah Pierre
****
During the pandemic, I lost my youngest sister and, within weeks, my younger brother. But with the help of family and friends and the understanding and empathy of my instructors, I was able to see it through. Rather than mourn death, I celebrated the life of my siblings and the future life for me. Moving forward can be hard, but it also can be therapeutic. I am moving forward, thinking how proud my brother and sister would be of me right now.
–Rebecca Robinson
****
I come from a Spanish-speaking family with few English language skills and am the mother of five children. I decided to pursue a master’s in Special Education because I want members of my community to know that I have been in their place – two of my children have special learning accommodations. I want people to know that everything is possible.
–Brenda Verdugo
****
Being a single mother of five small children, working a full-time job and earning my degree was definitely a challenge. God has granted me strength, courage and faith to keep moving forward and provides me with supportive family and friends. This has been a tragedy for many families experiencing losses in many forms. I pray and mourn for all Americans who have suffered any loss because of this pandemic.
–Christy Pope
****
I was a little skeptical about doing online classes because I am more of an in-person learner. I had just gotten married a few months before I started school and moved to a new city. I work full time and got pregnant early last year – now we have a 9-month-old baby girl. I have been in school the whole time, and let me tell you that it was quite a journey. But at the end of it I am so proud of myself. I am the first in my family to have a degree and am so thankful for my husband’s support. I was very sad that I couldn’t walk for my graduation, but I am glad GCU made it happen virtually.
–Sheena Medley
****
GCU came to my school’s beginning-of-the-year pep rally and offered me a master’s program completely online. I said, “Let’s do it!” That very same week, my husband got a job offer nine hours away from home and took it. “Now what do I do?” I thought. I kept going! Then spring break rolled around and the pandemic shut down schools. But the pandemic was a blessing in disguise. I was home with my kids, teaching/working from home and taking classes from home. Here we are 11 classes later – we made it!
–Valtie McKnight
****
I went through a year of debilitating back and leg nerve pain before having a double spinal fusion. Five months later, my car was rear-ended and I had post-concussion syndrome. Three weeks ago, my father passed away and I broke my hand. Through it all, my wife has been my rock and greatest supporter. I would not have made it through the program otherwise.
–Bill Rainey
****
What got me through this journey was not only strict determination, proper time management and prayer, but unprecedented perseverance and absolute dedication. I went through so many tribulations to achieve this dream and this goal. I gave up a lot. What I am gaining in return is so much grander. I did it!
I am so grateful that my GCU education continued without interruption during the pandemic. Some of my peers at my practicum site are attending different universities, and their courses were paused because of COVID-19 restrictions.
I appreciate the diligence, flexibility and coordination of the administration and faculty at GCU in transitioning throughout COVID-19. I had no idea that my practicum would be spent conducting telehealth while also working full time remotely, yet it has prepared me in more ways than I anticipated and is reflected in my refined counseling skills. Lopes alumnus 2020!
–Shae Williams
****
I live in Louisiana and faced getting laid off because of COVID, then had to survive three hurricanes. I pushed through doing my schooling online and still persevered and made A’s and B’s. The Lord has helped me push through.
–Krystal Rich
****
The pandemic challenged families in ways we would have never imagined, but it quickly brought into full focus my vision for how I could help others by earning my master’s in Professional Counseling and becoming a therapist. I became instantly recognized in my community as a vital worker although I was only a student working to gain hours of supervised experience. GCU supported my efforts, the amazing people in my life encouraged me through the difficulties and long days, and God’s grace carried me across the finish line as I approached a different kind of exhaustion. I pushed through and I DID IT!
–Rachelle Kitchen
****
Even though Commencement is virtual, it is still an awesome accomplishment, especially for me. Over the past year, I have had major health issues and still do, but when the pandemic occurred it made me push even harder through it all. The pandemic is something we cannot get around, so I made the best out of it and on my way to becoming a future educator, and that is all what matters at this point!
–Ellisha DeShazer
****
My degree is Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education. When I imagined my student teaching, I thought I was going to be in a brick-and-mortar school, but I am doing it virtually. Yet I’m extremely thankful for the opportunity to learn from and teach among some of the most supportive and helpful online teachers. I am also thankful for the counselors who helped us all find placement during these hard times. So thank you from the bottom of my heart.
–Kimberly Walton
****
I earned by Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from GCU in 1996, so when I finally decided to come back to GCU to earn my master’s degree in Communication with an Emphasis in Education, there was no question where I would attend. I have always been a Lope! I have worked hard as an online student this past year while also teaching my seventh and eighth grade science students online and in person during the pandemic. My motto the last 18 months has been, “Actually, I can.” And I did.
–Stephanie L. Smith-Goodson
****
I live in Canada and enjoyed the spiritual and academic support in my well-organized program. The support team I had was awesome. I got a call weekly to see how I was faring, and if I needed extra help, my permission was obtained for every transaction. My wonderful instructors took time via phone calls, Zoom, etc. to ensure all my questions were answered. Best of all, I had people to pray with — and for — my success. That was really important to me. I am grateful for GCU and its staff and surely would recommend this university.
–Olubukunola Akinwuntan
****
Obtaining my master’s in Elementary Education wouldn’t have been possible without the support of my family and my friends. I was working full time when the pandemic hit and had to home school a first grader and a preschooler and stay home with my toddler.
With child care centers closed and not wanting to risk our children’s health, my family stepped up to help watch them. They have stepped up even more now since I’m student teaching in another city three hours from home and I’m able to come home on weekends only. My friends provided me with someone to vent to when I’m feeling stressed and helped me to study for the teaching licensing state test.
I’m a first-generation college graduate, and none of this would have been possible without the support of my husband, Kile, my Aunt Jennifer and my friend Jordyn. Thank you all so much.
–Traci Nazario-Davis
****
Although I tested positive for COVID-19, my God never left me. He provided me the strength and guidance that brought me to this point in my career and life today to be virus-free. I am graduating because of the love of my amazing savior, Jesus Christ, my family, my site supervisor and the GCU staff. I know I couldn’t have done it without all of you.
To donate: Go to AZFamily.com, text PCW20 to 26989 or purchase a Paul’s Wash at Any Super Star Car Wash, where 50% goes to Big Brothers Big Sisters.
Story by Lana Sweeten-Shults Photos by David Kadlubowski
GCU News Bureau
The mud-spackled Ford F-150s and lightly dusted Toyota Priuses might not have been there, but the Grand Canyon University machine of Spirit Teams was gathered nonetheless, revving up the excitement level for one of GCU’s favorite community events, Paul’s Pay It Forward Car Wash.
GCU women’s basketball coach Molly Miller and Thunder present a $7,500 donation to Big Brothers Big Sisters at a recent filming for Paul’s Car Wash, which went virtual this year.
Any other year, the University’s men’s and women’s basketball teams, coaches and staffers, GCU Cheer and Dance, the Thundering Heard Pep Band and, of course, Thunder, would load up a bus or two and head to Desert Ridge Marketplace in North Phoenix to lend a hand at the weeklong fundraiser. It’s where they would take over a car-washing shift and help CBS 5 chief meteorologist Paul Horton raise money for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona.
Last year, in three hours, countless sudsy bubbles and more than 150 cars were sent on their way, clean as a whistle.
But like most events these days, the organizers of Paul’s Car Wash had to gingerly navigate around the coronavirus pandemic.
Miller has a little fun with Thunder before the filming.
What would normally be a high-energy few hours of washing cars in an electrified atmosphere that only GCU could create, turned instead into a most welcome, masked, socially distant visit by Horton to the campus to accept a $7,500 donation for Big Brothers Big Sisters.
Horton hit the road with a camera crew and visited several Paul’s Car Wash supporters, including GCU, for pre-filmed segments being aired Tuesday through Friday.
GCU’s check presentation will air at 5:45 p.m. Tuesday on 3TV and CBS 5. Some Spirit Team members and the GCU-wrapped bus will be at the broadcast location — Super Star Car Wash, 2970 N. Arizona Ave., in Chandler. It’s where GCU employees are invited to stop by and get a “Paul’s Wash,” with 50% of proceeds going to Big Brothers Big Sisters.
“It’s a lot different, but we’ve done this for 13 years now, and just being able to go visit people and interview them at their location instead of at the car wash is great,” Horton said after accepting the donation from GCU recently.
Horton and crew planned to visit about 25 sites before this week’s virtual event.
The Cheer team was on hand, along with the Thundering Heard Pep Band, to re-create that Purple Pre-Game Party feel.
Not that Horton’s visit was a quiet one.
In true GCU fashion, the Spirit teams took over the GCU Arena patio. The raucous Thundering Heard Pep Band blasted Gary Glitter’s “Rock and Roll Part 2 (The Hey Song).” Cheer and Thunder hyped up the atmosphere, too, and new women’s basketball coach Molly Miller helped present the check along with Dr. Joe Veres, Vice President of Student Success.
“The spectacle of the event, we wanted to do what we could to re-create that here on campus in the midst of COVID. … We’re just trying to re-create that Purple Pre-Game Party,” said Community Relations Manager Debbie Accomazzo, who quickly pulled together the GCU family to make Horton’s visit a spectacular one.
Horton started the car wash 13 years ago. He was part of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona’s board of directors and knew the organization’s struggles.
“They just needed a little help,” Horton said.
CBS 5 Chief Meteorologist Paul Horton started Paul’s Car Wash in 2007.
That little bit of help was the simple idea of a car wash, which has gone from raising $6,000 in its first year to more than $250,000 last year.
GCU always has felt a kinship with Big Brothers Big Sisters, one of its community partners.
“Big Brothers Big Sisters — it absolutely celebrates the mission of mentorship. … It’s a strong voice for advocacy,” Accomazzo said of the organization, which pairs adult volunteers, called “Bigs,” with youth ages 6-18 who could use a mentor.
Beyond GCU’s financial support, “we are investing much more deeply in that relationship,” said Accomazzo.
“We’ve always invested into Big Brothers Big Sisters, and even during this time, where it’s become a little bit difficult with the coronavirus, we didn’t want to back away,” said Veres. “We wanted to extend further.”
Veres has been invaluable in developing the University’s Learning Lounge, where K-12 students in the neighborhood receive free academic support from campus scholars. GCU wants to share those academic resources with Big Brothers Big Sisters.
No GCU celebration is complete without Thunder, of course.
The University, which touts more than 85,000 online students who are studying remotely, has the infrastructure in place when it comes to virtual education, something its own students benefited from during the pandemic.
And then there’s the biggest resource of all, Veres said – GCU’s scholars, who are well-versed in helping K-12 students with their studies.
“We’re able to support Big Brothers Big Sisters in some of their programs to offer academic assistance virtually,” Veres said. “We know it’s difficult with students being online or remote all day in school. Now they need more support than ever, and GCU is stepping up to help that way, with academic support virtually.”
A simple car wash, a big mission, a shared vision, a love of community, plus, “We like to go out and make a ruckus,” Accomazzo said with a smile, cars or not.
“How many of you wish that you could pray for this pandemic to end immediately? Believe that you receive it and, bam, you got it,” he said.
“How many of you wish that racial and political tensions would cease right now and all you had to do was just believe that you receive and, bam, you got it?
“How many of you wish that everything would just go back to normal, and that you could just believe that you receive and, bam, you got it?
“If only every challenge that we face was that simple.”
Instead, he challenged listeners to ask God for the grace to get through the pandemic, however long it lasts, and to strive to be a better version of themselves when it’s over.
He ran through the various types of prayer: supplication, intercession, thanksgiving, consecration, petition, praise and worship, agreement, corporate and faith.
We must live our faith and not just claim to have faith, Moore said.
An example of the prayer of faith is in Mark 11:22-24:
“Have faith in God,” Jesus answered. “Truly I tell you, if anyone says to this mountain, ‘Go, throw yourself into the sea,’ and does not doubt in their heart but believes that what they say will happen, it will be done for them.Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.”
Earlier in that chapter, Jesus had declared that a blooming fig tree would never again bear fruit, and when they returned the next day, the apostles were shocked that it had come to pass.
“Jesus reminds the disciples after seeing the fig tree withered away how important it is for us to have faith in God,” Moore said. “And I’m going to tell you that the answer to a million and one challenges that you and I are going to face in this life is you just have got to trust God.”
This is underscored in Proverbs 3:5:
Trust in the Lord with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding
That means trusting God blindly, Moore emphasized.
“God shouldn’t have to read off His resume, shouldn’t have to go through all the things that He has done for people over the years for us to trust Him,” he said. “He is faithful to a thousand generations. Even when you don’t see God moving in your life, He is moving.”
God doesn’t change your weaponry in the middle of the battle, Moore added. Example: David refused to wear Saul’s armor when he battled Goliath because it was unproven.
“Don’t allow anybody to convince you that the spiritual principles that got you to where you are today are now antiquated, outdated and ineffective,” Moore said.
Moore urged students to pray for the grace to get through the pandemic and to be stronger because of it.
But it’s not enough to have faith. You must live your faith. Another example came in the movie “The Karate Kid” when Mr. Miyagi had Daniel do common, everyday chores – such as the famous “Wax on, wax off” scene – to prepare him for the battle ahead.
Go into battle in a spirit of worship, not violence, Moore said, even if you haven’t prayed in a long time – or have prayed over and over, as Paul did in 2 Corinthians 12:7-10. Note the conclusion he drew:
… In order to keep me from becoming conceited, I was given a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me. Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me.But He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
Another common prayer this year is for 2020 to end, but Moore warned that turning the page to 2021 isn’t going to change things unless we are in a state of grace.
He showed on the screen photos of actress Reese Witherspoon looking bubbly in January and then steadily more fearful until she seems weary and panic-stricken with the same expression in June through September. There’s our year in a nutshell, and nut is the operative word.
“What can change is the way that you see yourself and the way that you see what you are up against,” Moore said. “And that’s what happened here in second Corinthians, Chapter 12, with the apostle Paul.
“… It’s not so much that God was not moving in his life, and it’s not so much that Paul did not believe in the power of prayer. … The issue was that Paul was praying the wrong thing.”
Another example is in Jeremiah 29:11-14:
For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.Then you will call on Me and come and pray to Me, and I will listen to you.You will seek Me and find Me when you seek me with all your heart.I will be found by you,” declares the Lord, “and will bring you back from captivity. I will gather you from all the nations and places where I have banished you,” declares the Lord, “and will bring you back to the place from which I carried you into exile.”
The backstory: They were in exile in Babylon for 70 years, but God wanted them to live life as normally as possible, to pray for Babylon and to not listen to false prophets.
The same applies to us today.
“None of us really know how long these times we are living in (are) going to last,” Moore said. “But just because we are in something that’s lasting a little but longer than many of us have expected does not mean that God does not know the thoughts that He thinks about us, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give us a future and to give to us an expected end.
“I encourage you, come out of this pandemic better than you went into this pandemic so that the name of Jesus can be exalted.”
By Krista Hoffer GCU Office of Student Care #Askingforafriend
Many individuals in the college-age group have noticed a great increase in fear, worry and feeling out of control of their life or surroundings. In some cases, it has led to anxiety and depression.
If those feelings or thoughts relate to you or someone you know, what can we do?
One of the things needed most in this season is grace. We are all living amid a global pandemic where many things outside us are in transition, which impacts the feelings inside us.
We need to extend grace for ourselves, our feelings and our thoughts as well as to others.
This is a new season. These are new paths. We are all walking them out for the first time. Together. So, naturally we don’t have all the answers, and without answers or familiarity, it can bring worry, fear or anxiety. Through grace you can gently remember we’re all figuring this out one day at a time.
You may not have started the semester in the way you would have hoped. Maybe wearing a mask is the most difficult piece for you, or maybe the fear of COVID-19 is influencing how you connect with others.
Each day is a new day, a new start to learn from yesterday. We can learn from external (outside of our control) and internal (within our control) changes, see how they influence us and strive to grow each day.
Maybe you are isolating from others, feeling unmotivated to engage in Zoom lectures or homework assignments. Whatever it is, it’s OK! You are not alone here.
A simple thing we can offer is grace. But in order to offer it to others genuinely, we must first allow grace on ourselves.
You are doing your best. You are resilient. This too shall pass. Grace upon grace.
By Connie Colbert Director, Canyon Health and Wellness Clinic
Halloween might look a little different this year because of COVID, but here are some tips from Johns Hopkins Hospital to help make it just as memorable while being safe.
Virtual costume contests and other online fun are the safest ways for kids to get together with their friends. Avoid parties, haunted houses and other indoor group activities — especially when screaming is involved. (Screaming is a big part of Halloween, but it projects a lot of respiratory droplets.)
Plan ahead
Door-to-door trick-or-treating is riskier since it involves interacting with many people. But if you choose to go ahead with the tradition, ask around in advance and find out who in your neighborhood is planning to participate. Ensure you and your children are physically distancing, wearing masks and practicing hand hygiene.
Keep large groups of kids from crowding around the same door, especially if they’re shouting “trick or treat!” Coach your children: If they encounter candy givers or other neighbors who aren’t wearing masks, wish them “Happy Halloween” and move on.
Giving out candy? Wear your mask, plus gloves, and toss the candy or pre-filled goodie bags on a sanitized table for physically distanced pickup. Look for clever ideas, such as making candy chutes and zip lines, or other fun ways to get candy to trick-or-treaters while maintaining 6 feet distance.
Parents don’t need to wash or sterilize candy wrappers; hand hygiene is more important. Remind children that they can dive into their tasty treasures only after returning home and thoroughly washing their hands.
If your child’s costume includes a mask, save it for later since costume masks may not prevent spreading the coronavirus. Substitute a coronavirus-approved mask, decorated to match the theme of your child’s costume.
Alternatives to trick-or-treating still can be fun:
How about a spooky scavenger hunt in your yard? Tuck away treats for your children to find, give them flashlights and let the adventure begin. If you include others from outside your household, make sure everyone wears COVID-appropriate masks and stays at least 6 feet apart.
Carving pumpkins, decorating masks, watching movies and sharing funny, scary stories around the fireplace or outdoor firepit with family members can make memories to cherish.
Take plenty of pictures. This Halloween might be a little different as you take precautions such as mask-wearing, physical distancing, hand hygiene and avoiding crowds. But even while you are staying safe, you and your children still can have great times to look back on years from now.
By Kayla Hartson Student Fitness Program Coordinator
For this week’s workout, try this lower body circuit and burn out your quads, hamstrings, glutes and calves.
Want to increase the intensity? Add a pair of dumbbells or complete four rounds of the circuit instead of three.
Don’t forget to include a proper warmup and cooldown as part of your routine.
Warmup: Before you begin the circuit, take five minutes to get your heart rate elevated and muscles warm. This includes a light jog and dynamic stretches.
Cooldown: After you complete the workout, take five minutes to safely lower your heart rate. This can include a slow walk and stretching all of the muscles in your lower body.
Perform each move for 45 seconds, then rest for 15 seconds. Complete the circuit three times.
Follow the Student Fitness Centers Instagram page @gcu.sfc for more workout and wellness tips.
Bachelor of Arts in Ministry, The Baptist College of Florida (2007)
Master of Divinity in Christian Ministry, Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary (2011)
Doctor of Philosophy in American Religious History, Florida State University (2017)
What is your most notable accomplishment in your field, and why was it important? I do not know if I can pick out “the most” notable accomplishment in my field. However, one that I am really proud of is when I was still a doctoral student at Florida State University, and I led a team in developing a course from scratch that I taught twice in the 2016 academic year called “Religion and the U.S. Presidency.” A few colleagues and I thought that it would be a fascinating course to teach during a presidential election year. Being in another presidential election year reminded me of that great experience and makes me want to teach an updated version of that course for 2020!
What are you most passionate about in your field and why? As you may be able to tell from my previous response, I am passionate about the complex relationship between religion and politics in the United States. I even did my dissertation on religious liberty in the Founding Era. Ever since I was a child in my Baptist church growing up, I was always captivated by the seemingly God-approved voting guides that the church freely distributed to members that explained why we should always vote for candidates in one political party versus the other political party.
What is a memorable moment you had in class? I do not have just one specific memorable moment in my class that I can point to. However, at GCU I teach CWV 101: Christian Worldview online. As a result, I get to share the Christian Gospel with all of my students. It is extremely gratifying to me and a huge answered prayer when students understand the truths of the Gospel for the first time and want to know more. God uses CWV 101 to draw people into a relationship with Himself.
What do you like to do for fun in your spare time? As a full-time online professor and a full-time caregiver for a chronically ill family member, I do not really have much spare time. In the off chance that I get a little free time, I enjoy reading non-fiction books and watching sci-fi, particularly anything “Star Trek” related.
What is something interesting about you that most people don’t know? Though my family and some close friends know this, most people do not know that I am a chocoholic! Whereas pizza or a steak is the favorite food for many people, my absolute favorite food is chocolate. I’m particularly partial to dark chocolate, chocolate mousse and chocolate ganache. I probably eat some sort of chocolate at least a couple of times a day.
Kevin Walling encourages his pre-law students to prepare for the LSAT by reading novels and magazines, not legal briefs.
By Mike Kilen
GCU News Bureau
It’s not what you expect to hear at the semester’s first meeting of the Pre-Law Society Club.
The Grand Canyon University student club was launched last year to form a network of budding lawyers who can exchange information, network and help each other pass the vital law school entrance exams, called LSATs.
Kevin Walling
Kevin Walling didn’t tell 23 club members assembled virtually in a recent meeting to bury their noses in legal briefs. His advice instead: Read novels and magazines.
Reading is the most important tool before taking what Walling calls one of the most difficult admission tests to graduate school, one that relies on reading comprehension, quick thinking and logic.
“Many young people are so distracted with all the electronic devices and entertainment available that they are not picking up books like they used to,” said Walling, Chair of Justice Studies, Government and History in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences. “The exam comes from the old world of the 20th century when there was no internet, so the 20th-century perception is that you will be reading books and you will understand how to comprehend them.
“I tell the students it’s not an issue that you are any dumber or smarter than any other generation. You just come from a world that you live in right now that is not oriented toward book reading.
“You can’t sit on the couch and eat donuts when you are training for a marathon — you have to get out and exercise. Same thing here. You have to exercise your mind, so your reading comprehension skills improve.”
That kind of information is what drove Dylan Mahoney last year to propose the idea for a club in which students who want to attend law school can gather, share ideas and study.
“It’s also a great way to connect people to one another because not everyone who wants to go into law is in the pre-law undergraduate program,” said Mahoney, this year’s Student Body President. “Many business students want to as well but have no way to find community or support from the government professors who are lawyers.”
Not just Government with an Emphasis in Legal Studies majors go on to law school. In fact, Walling said, there has been an increase in interest among students from both the Honors College and Colangelo College of Business to attend law school.
The club gives them a chance to hear from people who are involved in the field, discuss specific legal subjects and network.
“Sometimes you feel isolated and in a silo, where you are on your own and have no one to discuss your progress or check to see if you are on target. So having other people to work with is beneficial,” Walling said.
Graham Parker is President of the Pre-Law Society Club at GCU.
The network can benefit them later when they are attorneys, utilizing those professional relationships.
Pre-Law Society Club President Graham Parker said students can really help each other with information on the law school application process. He took the LSAT this summer and can relate his experience taking a timed test that he said was like no other in its emphasis on logic and theory.
“Taking the LSAT was stressful up until I started taking the test,” he said. “Once I started taking the test the world seemed to fall away and it was me and the questions. Once the timer ran out, I felt a sense of peace.”
The score ranges between 120 and 180 and is one of the factors that determine what law school a student can qualify for, such as elite Harvard, or if the student can land a scholarship from a “moderate” institution, Parker said.
“With this club, I get to help new students try to sharpen their skills,” he said.
Parker, a senior in Government with an Emphasis in Legal Studies, decided to become a lawyer in high school when he realized that he could use the law to help people.
At GCU, he said, he has learned to approach legal discussions with logic and not use the words, “I think” or “I feel.”
“You need to know the facts.”
Pre-law courses are designed to give students a sampler of what is taught in law school, not to specifically train for the LSAT.
“That’s why it’s important to have this student club,” Walling said. “I can talk to them all day about law school, but my experiences are not as fresh as hearing from other youth. Students are more interested in hearing from other young people.”
Future guests at the weekly meetings will include GCU graduates who went on to law school, law school professors and legal association representatives. For more information on joining the club, find it on Instagram or email gculawsociety@gmail.com
Grand Canyon University senior writer Mike Kilen can be reached at mike.kilen@gcu.edu or at 602-639-6764.
Dr. Connie Mariano attended a Zoom session with students and talked about her career.
By Ashlee Larrison GCU News Bureau
Honors College students at Grand Canyon University had a visit with a doctor Tuesday, but it was a healthy exchange. They were on a Zoom conference with Dr. Connie Mariano, who used to work in the White House.
“Given COVID-19 and the situation we’re in, it’s probably the best time to hear from a doctor who has been in that position before,” said Dr. Breanna Naegeli, Associate Dean of the Honors College.
During the call, which was put together by the Honors College but made public for anyone who was interested, Mariano shared her extensive experience in the medical field as well as the military. She also advised aspiring medical professionals of the importance of good grades and a passion for the field before entering it. The theme of her presentation: “Turn standing out to outstanding.”
Mariano, who started her career in the Navy assisting the ill and wounded, later became the first military woman to be physician to the President, the first woman director of the White House Medical Unit and the first Filipino American in U.S. history to become a Navy rear admiral.
After caring for three sitting presidents in nine years, Mariano became a consultant in the Executive Health Program at the Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale for four years. She then worked at the Center for Executive Medicine, a practice that offers presidential-quality medical services to CEOs and their families.
“Dr. Mariano was absolutely sensational,” said Dennis Williams, Honors College Program Manager and the event’s host. “She has an incredible story, unmatched passion to serve, but most importantly, she is a good, humble person and professional. Our students were hugely impacted by her story and life experiences, and we were so grateful to have learned from her.
“We had over 50 students joining via Zoom and from all different disciplines. Her stories and advice on work ethic, determination and grit was applicable and advantageous for all.”
Sometimes you have to get creative. It’s a saying the Multicultural, Diversity and Inclusion Office is taking to heart for Un1ty One Week, which will get the cultural gears turning with everything from an art walk to a parade of nations.
Multicultural, Diversity and Inclusion Office Director Donald Glenn addresses students at the One Love Awareness Walk during Welcome Week.
“The theme is diversity through creativity,” said Multicultural, Diversity and Inclusion Office Director Donald Glenn.
The creativity starts by spelling unity with a “1” instead of an “i.” There will be an activity every day — see schedule below.
It starts Monday with student discussions via Zoom. The art walk, which Glenn calls “a highlight,” is set for Tuesday.
Glenn said the political debate Wednesday is designed to be an “an expression of how students at GCU can feel more comfortable expressing their thoughts and opinions when it comes to diversity.” The week wraps up with the “Cooking and Culture Show” on Thursday and a worship service Friday similar to a parade of nations.
The Multicultural, Diversity and Inclusion Office expanded over the summer to a 12-member team that includes Glenn, a Multicultural Office Specialist and 10 student coordinators.
The department kicked off the semester with the One Love Awareness Walk in September, which culminated Welcome Week activities.
Earlier this month, the Multicultural Office held a Hispanic Heritage Month celebration that included a talk about DACA, what that has meant for immigrants and how it is affecting them.
“It’s been really interesting to have these conversations,” Glenn said.
Here is what’s coming up for Un1ty One Week.
Monday: “The State of Mind” on Zoom from 5-6 p.m. (a 7-8 p.m. session will be geared toward student-athletes; here’s the Zoom link). During the virtual event, student-athletes will speak about their experiences as student-athletes of color. Access the Zoom link from the Multicultural, Diversity and Inclusion Office’s Instagram (gcu_multicultural) the day of the event.
Tuesday: The “Unity Through Creativity Art Walk” from 5:30-6:30 p.m. at the Student Advising Services Building turf (Building 18). This event is modeled after the city of Phoenix’s First Friday events. Students will sell their artwork, one student will create a mural, and COFAP will perform its Fall Student Spotlight Dance Concert at 8 p.m. near the Quad.
Wednesday: Debate, 2-3 p.m., Ethington Theatre. The Multicultural, Diversity and Inclusion Office will partner with GCU’s Speech and Debate teams for this first-come, first-served event, which themed after Trump vs. Biden. Seating is limited.
Thursday: Cooking and Culture show, 6-7 p.m., Canyon Field. Students will share their cultural attire through video, and they will show how to make an international dish with a finished product onsite to try.
Friday: This worship night will feature a parade of nations from 5-6:30 p.m. on the Quad.
Ashley Teshima has built a reputation as a muralist in Hawaii.
Story by Ashlee Larrison
Photos by Brandon Reis
GCU News Bureau
Teshima graduated from GCU in 2016.
Before Ashley Teshima traveled from the beautiful beaches of Hawaii to the Arizona desert to attend Grand Canyon University and eventually graduate in 2016 with a degree in Digital Art with an Emphasis in Web Design, she wanted to be a nurse.
So when a GCU representative came to her high school and told her about the University’s nursing program, her dream became a reality with the assistance with several scholarships. But, one semester in, after seeing the drive and dedication her nursing peers had for the field, Teshima found herself questioning her degree decision.
“I looked around at my fellow classmates and just realized that they were really passionate about just wanting to be a nurse,” she said. “Seeing that made me realize that I just wasn’t on the same path as them.”
That’s when Teshima’s other interest, art, would lead her to the College of Fine Arts and Production for what was supposed to be a trial semester in the Digital Arts program to see if it worked out. After all, she had always had a passion for art but never thought of it as a field she could pursue because of one important obstacle:
Teshima works with 808 Urban when commissioning murals.
“I cannot see certain colors,” Teshima said.
Specifically, she has difficulty differentiating different colors within the same shade, such as dark blues, purples and browns.
When Teshima enrolled at GCU, she was under the impression that the primary school color was dark blue, only to find out it was purple after her mother bought her some purple clothing before she headed to campus.
She voiced her concerns to Digital Design Program Lead Sheila Schumacher about how she could work in the field with such an obstacle, and it was there that she learned that nothing was impossible.
“She sat with me and we went over color numbers and figured out how to basically paint by numbers,” Teshima said. “It’s given me confidence.”
Having that guidance and support changed her life.
Now, Teshima can be found in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, working as a Program Manager for a custom-building company. In her down time, she is a photographer and muralist for 808 Urban, a Hawaiian nonprofit arts organization.
Teshima uses color numbers to help her differentiate colors.
“Often, students forget they can do artistic things outside of their 9-to-5 job,” Schumacher said. “She had not done street art while she was here but was a prolific student creating hundreds of pieces of work, and her move to her family home in Hawaii has offered more and unexpected ways to be creative.”
Through her work with 808 Urban, Teshima uses her artistic ability to cover negative, hurtful graffiti around the island and replace it with more positive art and murals.
“They taught me their process of healing the area and trying to bring the community to heal with them,” Teshima said. “They see hateful words and are passing by it every day, so to have something put up there that’s actually really positive for them and that they have put their hands on … it’s just way more of an uplifting area.”
Teshima working on a mural.
Though the organization is commissioned to produce murals, its work restores a sense of community and love to walls that previously were defaced. Teshima has a color checker who numbers her cans of spray paint, allowing her to identify the correct hue.
After attending a high school that had about 400 students, Teshima felt right at home with the small class sizes and connections with professors and peers at GCU. She has kept in touch with several instructors.
“I never thought I’d be able to paint murals, as I have now, with people writing on all of my cans and all of my paint stuff,” she said. “My teachers made a huge difference.”
Get your heart rate up with this challenging cardio workout! This workout is perfect to fit in right when you wake up, during your work break or before you go to bed.
Joy Simi 
Such a *weird* but special way to graduate from @gcu Officially (after these last two classes 
) I will be a college graduate! #lopesout #graduation2020 #gcugrad #quarantinegraduation2020
#gcu2020
But Pastor 
Want to increase the intensity? Add a pair of dumbbells or complete four rounds of the circuit instead of three.
The Multicultural, Diversity and Inclusion Office expanded over the summer to a 12-member team that includes Glenn, a Multicultural Office Specialist and 10 student coordinators.
Here is what’s coming up for Un1ty One Week.
