Photos by Brandon Sullivan
GCU News Bureau
Grand Canyon University freshmen gathered Tuesday night for a worship service in GCU Arena and then the traditional Ignite ceremony on the Quad. Earlier, freshmen from faraway places got a chance to connect at the Out of State Student Social.
The post Welcome Week activities, Day 2 appeared first on GCU Today.
Juniper roommates (from left) Vince Clapper, Joey Lopez Jr. and Tabor Morse liked the First 72 activities.
Story and photos by Laurie Merrill
GCU News Bureau
Hundreds of freshmen had just moved into Juniper Hall on Tuesday when their first organized activities kicked in — a LopeLife 101 session followed by a massive, hall-wide pizza party.
After attending the residence hall’s life meeting, the new students streamed into Juniper’s lobby for hot slices. And while some carried loaded paper plates to their rooms, many more stayed to enjoy their bounty in the company of strangers who could become friends.
“It definitely makes it easier to meet new people and create a foundation of friendship,” said Joey Lopez Jr. from Buckeye, who was with his new roommates, Vince Clapper of Sioux Falls, S.D., and Tabor Morse from Colorado Springs, Colo.
Both events were part of a new Grand Canyon University program, the First 72 Experience, an initiative that adds an additional roster of activities to Welcome Week to help freshmen feel grounded while the goodbyes to their families still might be fresh.
Conceived by Residence Life and Spiritual Life, First 72 was designed to bolster unity and encourage friendships among freshmen, not only on their floors but also in their residence halls as a whole, said Charity Norman, new student and family programs manager.
“After students move onto campus they will be constantly engaged,” Norman said. “For the first three days, freshmen will have consistent programming in their specific living areas.”
Isaac Suffern (left) of Hawaii and Nathan Fischbach of Denver enjoy pizza at Juniper Hall.
The idea was welcomed by Kei’ Ana Nabor of Chandler, who was waiting in line for pizza with her Juniper roommates. Typically, she is not comfortable with so much social time.
“I’ve never been a school-spirit type of person, and the fact that there’s so much of it — I hope it’s going to rub off on me,” Nabor said.
Nathan Fischbach of Denver was sitting in the courtyard with Isaac Suffern of Hawaii.
“I’m not much of a social person, so this is new,” he said, munching his meal while gazing onto the shady grass where dozens of Juniper Hall residents also were looking around and eating.
Suffern was more comfortable with the idea.
“I think it’s a smart way to get people out of their rooms and into an activity,” he said.
Ashlyn Vandyken of Montana was chatting with a group of students.
“I think it’s an opportunity to meet other people and chill out,” she said.
Juniper Resident Assistants Michael Chavez and Courtney Stewart, who manned the front desk, were excited about the new programming.
“It’s building community, but in a unique way,” Chavez said.
“It’s important to reach out to freshmen in the first 72 hours, and there are so many fun activities for them,” Stewart said.
Each freshman residence hall — Acacia, Willow, Canyon, Juniper, Ironwood and Chaparral — has the same First 72 events.
At 10 p.m. each of the first three days, Residence Life leaders are offering low-key hangout times during what is called “After Dark Options.” These could include board games, movie nights and “get to know you” activities, Norman said.
“The leaders will take this time each night to be really intentional with their students,” Norman said.
First 72 events begin in earnest on Day 2 with community gatherings and pool parties.
On Day 3, leaders from each hall floor take students on a Find Your Classroom Tour followed by a Campus Dining Tour. Hall Meetings are scheduled for the afternoon.
It’s all designed to give the students more.
“We have done additional programming for the freshman halls in previous years, though never anything to this extent,” Norman said.
Contact Laurie Merrill at 602-639-6511 or laurie.merrill@gcu.edu.
The post ‘First 72’ provides fun plus fodder for new friendships appeared first on GCU Today.
Story by Laurie Merrill
Photos by Brandon Sullivan
GCU News Bureau
It’s a moment both solemn and joyous, a symbolic unifying of a new class of students and a pledge for each to do one’s best in the world.
Grand Canyon University’s Ignite ceremony, now in its fourth year, brings together thousands of freshmen who each light a candle from a single flame and, as a group, raise that fire into the sky.
GCU students gathered to hold their candles to the heavens and unite in single purpose during the Ignite event.
It’s a commissioning of the incoming class amid a message to students to let their light shine brightly. It signifies that each individual can be brighter in community, said Pastor Tim Griffin, GCU’s dean of students.
“There’s a chance to a make a commitment to be a difference-maker in the world,” Griffin told the assembled Class of 2020 as candles were lit, each to each, in the ceremony on the Quad. “In order to make a difference you will need each other … the ceremony signifies reliance on each other.”
He quoted from Matthew 5:14: “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”
And he made reference to the fire of the Olympic torch, considered by ancient Greeks to be a divine element and in modern Olympic Games seen as a representation of man’s positive values. It is the lighting of the torch that officially kicks off the Games.
The Chapel Worship Band played songs so moving that everyone in the Arena was on their feet.
It’s a fitting reference for freshmen who are starting their college careers. And it’s a fitting message to those who hope to find their purpose and to grow closer to God.
When Griffin asked thousands of individuals to raise their candles to the heavens — their faces illuminated in a soft flickering glow — they united into a single group.
The ceremony, and the one-hour New Student Worship that preceded it, touched those in attendance.
“I loved it,” Jaci Fernandez said. “I’m really excited for the school year now.”
“It’s a really cool thing to do,” said Colton Daley. “It makes me really proud to be part of the community.”
Before the Ignite ceremony, students were treated to an hour of songs performed by the Chapel Worship Band.
Many students swayed, sang and danced to songs of worship.
Music filled the Arena and the songs of praise were so rousing that nearly everyone was on their feet, some swaying with emotion, others dancing and many singing along to words that appeared on the video screen.
They perhaps sang loudest to the song “Wake,” the pre-chorus of which goes: “You will never fade away, Your love is here to stay, by my side, in my life, shining through me every day.”
Griffin said the event was more worship-driven than message-driven, similar to The Gathering, which takes place at 8 p.m. Tuesdays in Antelope Gym during the academic year. “It’s a unique experience for the students,” he said.
Chapel, at 11:15 a.m. Mondays, is geared for a general University crowd.
Contact Laurie Merrill at (602) 639-6511 or Laurie.Merrill@GCU.edu
The post ‘Ignite’ inspires unified vision in Class of 2020 appeared first on GCU Today.
On top of entertaining fans and intimidating opponents, the Havocs are looking to amplify the excitement around soccer at Friday’s opening game. (Photo by Darryl Webb)
By Jeannette Cruz
GCU News Bureau
The face of soccer in the Valley will change dramatically Friday night when Grand Canyon University officially opens its gleaming new facility, GCU Stadium, for its men’s soccer season opener against Central Florida.
“It’s going to be full of energy, it’s going to be fun and it’s going to be crazy,” said Helen Bleach, director of university relations and events. “There’s already so much excitement around the stadium, but with students, families and the Havocs on campus this will be a culmination of Welcome Week and University soccer. This is a big deal.”
The grand-opening game is scheduled for 7 p.m. at the intimate new facility on the west side of campus, which seats 3,000 fans and has 10-foot berms on three sides that will bring the capacity to 6,000.
The Havocs will kick off the first men’s soccer game of the year with a March to the Match. (Photo by Darryl Webb)
But a lot will be happening before the match.
Burgers, tacos, cotton candy and push-pops will be sold along Lopes Way, and the Havocs, GCU’s student cheering section, will lead the pregame March to the Match, which starts at 6:30 on Lopes Way. Students will march through campus to the stadium, and the Havocs will storm the field to amp up the celebration. They will have their own platform in the stadium to get wild, crazy and loud during the match.
“People will have a chance to get their faces painted, the band will be playing music and the Havocs will be screaming our own soccer chants,” said Karsten Kem, vice president of the Havocs. “Every student on campus is a Havoc, and this is our chance to maximize our intensity.”
At halftime, teams of children will have an opportunity to play a scrimmage. Everyone in attendance will get a GCU soccer T-shirt, which will give them food discounts at future games, and there will be a giant fireworks display at the end of the night.
Schellas Hyndman, GCU men’s soccer coach, knows the significance of hosting the first of many soccer games at the new stadium. To put it in perspective, he uses the word “relevant” to describe the impact of soccer in the surrounding GCU community.
The men’s soccer team returns after preparing in Sedona for the new season.
“Soccer is going to matter here. We’re going to build a tradition and a strong soccer program so that it becomes one of the things that people mention when they talk about GCU,” he said. “Anyone can host a soccer game, but we’re trying to create an event where even little kids who don’t understand soccer are just enjoying the fireworks. This is an opportunity for history … an opportunity to make Phoenix a home for soccer.”
Hyndman, who was introduced as GCU’s coach last year, has an unquenchable passion for the sport.
“We train very hard and when we’re out on the field we know there are expectations, so we know to be out there at our best,” he said. “When I talk about what’s special about this team … immediately, the experience these players have. They are players everyone in the country wanted. Secondly, these players understand the concept of teamwork, and that’s what has made this preseason amazing.”
Here are three key GCU players to watch at the game:
Men’s soccer coach Schellas Hyndman is excited about what GCU Stadium means to his program. “Soccer is going to matter here,” he said.
Niki Jackson: Appeared in 16 games last year, started 12 and ranked second on the team in goals (nine) and fifth in the Western Athletic Conference in shots per game.
Damian German: In 2015, Damian was one of only four GCU players to start in all 17 games. The Phoenix native recorded six points, tied for third on the team, with two goals and two assists. Hyndman said the forward has “rich soccer experience essential to play at higher level.”
Alexandros “Alex” Halis: The senior midfielder has played in 13 games in 2015 and tied for first on the team with four assists and tied for third with six points. He also ranked fifth in the WAC in assists per game.
This will be the first of nine men’s home matches at GCU Stadium this season. The second match is scheduled for 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 15, against IUPUI.
The GCU’s women’s team will play its home opener against UTEP at 1 p.m. Sunday.
Contact Jeannette Cruz at jeannette.cruz@gcu.edu or (602) 639-6631.
The post A night to shout about: GCU Stadium set to open appeared first on GCU Today.
Story and photos by Laurie Merrill
GCU News Bureau
Leesa Kolter, of Redwood City, Calif., grew up thinking college wasn’t in her future.
Drake Johnson of Surprise applied because he was inspired by his digital animation teacher — and his mother.
Leesa Kolter, from California, is the oldest of three sisters and the first in her family to go to college.
When Chris Diaz of San Diego completed forms and borrowed money, he did so without help from his parents.
Today, all three Grand Canyon University freshmen are the first in their families to continue education after high school — a significant experience they have in common. And they got to meet and share their experiences during GCU’s first official First in the Family socials.
First in the Family is one of four new networks GCU created this year to add social events, support and information to smaller groups of students, according to Michael Schissel, who works in GCU’s new student and family programs.
The other three were created for transfer, out-of-state and multicultural students.
“We created a few networks for people on campus that may have had less traditional experiences,” said Charity Norman, new student and family programs manager and the coordinator for all Welcome Week activities. “The biggest thing is that students who are first in their families don’t have the same expectations, and they wind up doing a lot of things alone.”
Drake Johnson of Surprise got inspiration from his mother and a favorite teacher.
Things like applying for financial aid, signing up for PSATs and SATs, filling out college applications, lining up recommendations and choosing courses.
Norman should know. She was the first in her family to go to college when she entered Cedarville University in Ohio.
“I didn’t know I could pick my own dorm, I didn’t know I could pick a roommate and I didn’t know I could choose my own schedule,” said Norman, who is pursuing a master’s in Business from GCU.
It’s also a demographic that tends to be more excited about school and to have “the potential to experience more wonder,” she said.
“I ended up loving school more than all of my friends,” Norman said. “It was a very, very formative experience.”
There seemed to be wonder among the freshmen who attended the social, the first of monthly First in the Family networking events.
Chris Diaz (left) of San Diego and Rosaura Carrillo of Tempe met each other and about a dozen other GCU freshmen with similar experiences.
Rosaura Carrillo, a Tempe High School graduate, said she feels a certain pressure to excel from her mother, a stay-at-home mom, and her father, a carpenter who works for a remodeling company, because she is the first to attend college.
“I’m very excited and a little nervous,” she said. “My parents are striving for something better for me. I’ve been asked to set an example and was put on a pedestal. It’s such a big role to play, but I’m ready to take it on as best I can.”
Diaz plans to study marketing. His dad is a union plumber, and his mother owns a catering company.
“The benefit for me is I want to invest in myself, make connections and get a master’s right away after graduation,” Diaz said.
Diaz already is working as a marketing director for M33 Labs, a startup that is raising Kickstarter funds to produce a smart desk combining cable, a desk, speakers, a touchscreen and a computer tower.
Johnson, a Vista High School graduate, said one of his inspirations for college was his mother, a data worker, and another was a favorite teacher, Melinda Holder, who nudged him to stretch beyond his academic comfort zone.
“She challenged me,” Johnson said of Holder. For example, she encouraged him to make a video with the dance club and create a short movie with the drama club.
“She figured out what I should do with my future,” he said, which is to study digital animation and digital design.
His father, an electronic engineer, and mother are “super proud of me,” Johnson said. “I really don’t want to let my parents down.”
Kolter is the oldest of three sisters. Her father is president of operations at a garden materials business, and her mother stays at home because of health issues.
Kolter never thought she would go to college, but after she received a few scholarships there was enough money for it. She said she applied to one place: GCU.
“I visited it and fell in love,” she said.
Like the other First in the Family students, her parents could offer little help in the application process.
“My parents are sad to see me leave, but they’re proud, too,” she said.
The students said the network event was an excellent idea because it helped them make new connections with others in the same situation.
“If you come here and don’t know anybody, it’s cool to meet people who are kind of like you and have similar experiences,” Carrillo said.
Said Kolter, “It’s a really, really good idea. It’s a nice, small group, which is easier.”
Contact Laurie Merrill at (602) 639-6511 or Laurie.Merirll@Gcu.edu.
The post Common bond: Special socials unite freshman groups appeared first on GCU Today.
Story by Mark Heller
Photos by Darryl Webb
GCU News Bureau
After Anthony Acosta spent the better part of two hours introducing himself to several Grand Canyon University freshmen Wednesday night, asking questions about them, answering questions from them, running around and recruiting other freshmen to join his Kickstart group’s ice-breaker game of “My ship is sinking,” he insisted he’s an introvert.
Plenty of evidence to the contrary was on display during GCU’s Kickstart session with the Class of 2020, but the juxtaposition between his everyday self and seemingly the opposite during the night’s leadership situations was intentional.
Students were given random numbers from 1 to 200 to form Kickstart groups.
The junior Health Care Administration major from California spent his middle school and high school years doing public-speaking exercises, volunteer work, multiple sports and anything else that was needed from his high school class of 86 peers.
Not knowing anyone at GCU, Acosta came to the University wide-eyed and sometimes anxious.
“I’m naturally quiet, but public speaking or class presentations is where I thrive,” Acosta said after spending more than 90 minutes helping mentor a collection of randomly selected freshmen. “I wish they had this when I was a freshman.
“I’ll be signing up to do it again next year.”
After soft launching last spring, the Kickstart program was in full swing Wednesday night. It’s a concept Charity Norman, GCU’s new student and family program manager, saw when she was a college freshman in Ohio.
The hope is for Kickstart to increase in size from Wednesday’s estimated 1,500 incoming freshmen participation and become a permanent piece of Welcome Week. Norman said freshmen, and especially incoming commuter students, can greatly benefit from the event — the commuters “might otherwise not enjoy the same connection to GCU, fellow students and our campus.”
Each of the exactly 200 “kickers” or mentors (sophomores, juniors or seniors) also volunteered during Welcome Week. Each wore orange hats and GCU T-shirts, and each mentor was free to come up with team-building and ice-breaker exercises in the five days between their training and Wednesday night.
The Kickstart goal is to make freshmen comfortable at GCU as quickly as possible.
Incoming freshmen were randomly given a number (1-200) that corresponded with their “kicker,” and their activities, discussions, campus tours (or all of the above) began.
“The most important thing is to meet each other and make them feel more prepared for life at GCU than before they came,” Norman told her 200 volunteers.
The activities included games of red rover (for example, asking anyone from California to join a group), classroom tours, Q&A sessions on the Quad with their “kicker” and their new classmates, learning some of the Havocs’ routines and cheers at GCU athletics events, or what Acosta joked as his “friendship-breaker” — the sinking ship game, in which students were asked to form smaller groups and think fast on their feet.
The ultimate goal is for the mentors to check in or meet with some (or all) of their freshman students in the next week or two. Perhaps yearlong or lifelong friendships eventually will emerge from a night of random meet-and-greet interactions.
Whatever happens from here, a lot of “ice” already has melted.
“It was cool to ask other students anything we wanted to know,” said Jocelyn Smith, a freshman business student from nearby Glendale, Ariz. “There’s been a lot to learn and process, but the first few days of being here have been amazing.”
Contact Mark Heller at (602) 639-7516 or mark.heller@gcu.edu.
The post Kickstart does a number on freshman angst appeared first on GCU Today.
Story by Karen Fernau
Photos by Brandon Sullivan
GCU News Bureau
Menna Elmindany rattles off the many reasons she’s looking forward to living in Roadrunner, one of three new apartment complexes opening this week at Grand Canyon University.
The living room in the new Roadrunner Apartments allows plenty of space to relax.
The apartment is roomy and brand new. Her roommates are friends — they’re like her family away from home. She’s eager to learn to cook in the kitchen.
But the sophomore from Alexandria, Egypt, is most excited about having her own bedroom.
“I’ve always shared a bedroom, with my sister and last year with my roommate. I can’t wait to have my very own room,” said Elmindany, a diver on GCU’s swimming and diving team.
On Wednesday, Elmindany joined about 650 students moving into Roadrunner, one of three new apartment complexes opening this week at GCU.
Returning full-time students had first dibs on Roadrunner’s three- and four-bedroom apartments, and several were relieved to make the cut.
Students say they look forward to having their own bedroom for the first time.
“I was on a waiting list and am so thankful I got in. I’ll love having my own bedroom,” said Travis Zumwalt, a sophomore finance major from Hawaii.
Every apartment includes single-person bedrooms, two bathrooms plus shared living rooms and kitchens equipped with refrigerators, freezers, ovens, electric range tops and microwaves.
Like many Roadrunner residents, Aaron Widger plans to fire up the stove in the apartment’s compact but well-equipped kitchen.
“I love to cook, so am so excited I’ll be able to,” said Widger, a senior pre-med major from Tempe.
Along with clothing and bedding, student volunteers were unloading sofas, tables, chairs, pots, pans and dishes Wednesday.
It was a busy scene as students moved in to the new Roadrunner Apartments.
Elmidany and one of her roommates, Elizabeth Fogel of Santa Cruz, Calif., decided to move in with the bare basics and shop for furniture later.
“We are excited to furnish our first apartment,” she said. “We’ll make it feel like home.”
All three new apartment buildings are six stories and built in the same style as Papago I and II, which opened in 2014. Roadrunner is located in the middle of campus where the Tell Science building once stood. Agave is on 30th Drive north of GCU’s offices on Colter Avenue, and Encanto is just south of Papago II.
Contact Karen Fernau at (602) 639-8344 or karen.fernau@gcu.edu.
The post New apartments add roomy to room and board appeared first on GCU Today.
Photos by Brandon Sullivan
GCU News Bureau
Move-In continued Wednesday at Camelback and Chaparral halls and then at the new Roadrunner Apartments. There’s never any shortage of smiles during Move-In, especially when Thunder is around.
The post Move-In, Day 3: Hump day is fun day appeared first on GCU Today.
By Aysha Bell
GCU Career Services
As a Grand Canyon University alumni, you have a unique perspective that serves as an asset to you as you navigate and pursue your desired career path. Your values-based education allows you to strategically align your faith with the pursuit of ideal employment opportunities.
The scriptures state, “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” (Jeremiah 29:11 New International Version). What an amazing biblical reference that speaks to so many aspects of our lives, especially our careers! How many times have we heard this scripture quoted from pulpits and in Christian reading material and then sat back waiting for this scriptural promise to ‘materialize’? Unfortunately, results are not achieved by hope alone. It is vital that we become intentional about our future. Faith without works is dead (James 2:14-26)!
So how do we, as educated Christians, align our faith in developing our strategic career plan? There are clear steps to take to ensure we are pursuing a career field that is the best fit and those steps are clearly supported by scripture.
Step One: Have a clear understanding what career is the best fit for you.
A gift opens the way and ushers the giver into the presence of the great (Proverbs 18:16).
When you do what you love, the money will follow. There is actually some truth to this old adage. Therefore, it is important to spend an ample amount of time examining your interests, strengths, abilities and values to determine which careers correlate best. There are numerous personality and aptitude measurements designed to help you gain a stronger perspective at no charge (click the link at the end of this article for the free GCU Career Compass). Take time to prayerfully consider and thoroughly review the results of every assessment you take. You might learn information about yourself you did not know before.
Step Two: Gain industry expertise through research.
The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding. (Proverbs 4:7).
Once you have a clear idea of what career fields are the most ideal fit for you, it is necessary to learn everything you possibly can about that field:
Step Three: Developing a strategic marketing plan for YOU.
Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows (Luke 12:7).
For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do (Ephesians 2:10).
There is no timeline for how long it will take to successfully navigate through your strategic career path. The challenge is to remain steadfast in the pursuit of your career goals, which can be accomplished through prayer, partnership with supportive family and friends, and commitment to your career.
Remember, GCU Career Services is here for you. Visit our website at gcu.edu/careerservices to utilize any of our online tools to identify your career path, build your resume, research career options or apply to current job postings!
The post How to apply your faith to your career appeared first on GCU Today.
Photos by Darryl Webb
GCU News Bureau
Students transferring to Grand Canyon University got their own social Thursday afternoon to get to know each other better and continue their acclimation to the campus. Several new socials for various groups were introduced this year.
The post Transfer Student Social appeared first on GCU Today.
Photos by Darryl Webb
GCU News Bureau
It was time to get a little crazy Thursday night in GCU Arena, site of the first Lope-A-Palooza. The idea was pretty straightforward: GCU has become well-known for its spirit at sports events, and this was a chance to give new students a glimpse of what it’s all about.
The post Lope-A-Palooza appeared first on GCU Today.
Antelope Intros is a recurring GCU Today feature that introduces some of our new employees to the people around them in a way that is fun and informative. Employees are eligible to be featured in the month following their orientation.
Chad Glendenning
Job title: Financial aid specialist
Job location: 27th Avenue
What attracted you to GCU? I wanted to work for a company whose values and ethics more closely emulate my own.
What do you do for fun and where do you find that outlet? I read a lot — mostly sci-fi books from the 1950s and ’60s (Robert Heinlein, Frank Herbert, etc.). I fulfill that outlet mostly at secondhand book stores; I have always preferred the feel and smell of an actual book in my hands over a PDF of a book or reading on a Kindle. It’s just not the same to me. Also, the look and feel of a well-maintained but used book is like wearing a pair of worn in jeans; it’s just more comfortable to me.
What are you passionate about? Learning. I’ve always been someone who enjoys to read about and learn new things constantly. It allows me to grow as a person when I’m always tackling new topics and interests and seeking to “grok” them (if you know what this means, I’m glad to know we have the same taste in literature).
What are your favorite places or events in the Valley that you like to visit? I enjoy taking my daughter to the park. Watching her play with the sheer joy of innocence on a playground has never failed to bring a smile to my face no matter how daunting life’s challenges might seem.
Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know: I once got into an argument with Mark Hamill (the actor who played Luke Skywalker in the “Star Wars” films) at the San Diego Comicon back in 1996. I was 16 at the time and was attending the Comicon with my cousin, who works in the comic industry. While waiting for him to show his portfolio, I started talking to an older gentleman to kill the time. Mark Hamill approached the gentleman and started talking to him as if he knew him, and I just happened to join the conversation. One thing led to another, and after security arrived and separated us, my cousin approached me and asked me if I “got his autograph.” I said I was pretty sure Mark Hamill wasn’t going to give me an autograph. My cousin then pointed to the older gentleman and said, “No, Frank Miller! Did you get his autograph?” (Frank Miller is the writer behind the “Sin City,” “Watchmen” and “Dark Knight Returns” graphic novels that all were huge hits and ended up being interpreted into movies.)
What are you most proud of? My family. My better half, Esther (who reminds me not to take things so seriously all the time); my stepdaughter, Lily (who has taught me how quickly people can learn); and my daughter, Ivy (who has shown me that as a father, I really am a superhero, at least in her eyes).
*****
Kathy Richard and Mickey Mouse.
Job title: University counselor
Job location: Tempe
What attracted you to GCU? I love purple! And I just graduated from GCU online in the College of Education! Plus I have several friends who work for GCU, and they all seem very happy to be here — not to mention all the swag they are constantly sporting.
What do you do for fun and where do you find that outlet? Fun? Do I have time for that? Now that I have finished my degree, I have found time to binge watch Netflix and read books of my choosing — for pleasure! I like to road trip to Disneyland or jump in the van with my youth group and go anywhere, usually somewhere in California.
What are you passionate about? I love God and the opportunities He has given me to serve as a youth leader and camp counselor. He has made my heart heavy with the desire to focus on ministry related to youth in crisis, and I am hoping to further my impact through continued education at GCU.
What are your favorite places or events in the Valley that you like to visit? My favorite places in the Valley are not actually in the Valley! I prefer the high country, where it is cooler and there are fewer cacti. My favorite event that I participate in locally is the Pat Tillman Run. It is for a great cause, in remembrance of one man’s sacrifice for his country. My favorite part is that it is a family affair that includes my kids, sisters and multiple extended family.
Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know: This one is hard because I am usually an open book! When I was a kid, I spent a lot of time at Manzanita Speedway and wanted to become a race car driver, but I could never decide if my car would be purple or pink.
What are you most proud of? I am most proud of my children! I am a single mom and far from June Cleaver, yet somehow I managed to raise amazing kids who love Jesus!
Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know: I spent almost 22 years in the U.S. Army and retired in October 2015. I do miss some things about being in uniform but really enjoy the freedoms that I have as a civilian.
What are you most proud of? My family, my sons and my military service.
The post Antelope Intros: Chad Glendenning and Kathy Richard appeared first on GCU Today.
By Jeannette Cruz
GCU News Bureau
Grand Canyon University President Brian Mueller couldn’t have set the tone any better Thursday when he directed his attention to the new 600 freshmen seated inside GCU Arena for the Honors College Kickoff.
“There’s probably no other place in the world that has this much brainpower in one place,” he said.
President Brian Mueller addresses the new Honors College freshman class.
The occasion was an event that recognized the largest incoming freshman class with a 4.0 GPA and higher, introduced them to new opportunities in the Honors College and encouraged success for the future.
Mueller lectured on the need for innovation in higher education. He said for decades, higher education has been a lot about producing graduates who got plugged into working in Fortune 500 or Fortune 1000 companies. With new and interesting ideas, he said, comes prosperity to a greater number of society.
He urged, “Use this time to stretch that creative capacity to become the germination of some company that will create thousands of jobs or to become the next President of the United States — because it could be you.”
Dr. Antoinette Farmer
Next up was Dr. Antoinette Farmer, vice president of institutional effectiveness, who read a poem by Edgar Albert Guest titled “It Couldn’t Be Done,” to put forward the idea that anything is possible.
Breanna Naegeli, Honors College assistant dean, served as the keynote speaker for the program. With an emphasis on becoming influential agents of change, Naegeli challenged students pursue honors-exclusive events, social activities, guest speakers, clubs, internships and international travel opportunities scheduled throughout the year.
“What I learned through my personal experience and what many students learn every single year is that there are thousands of college graduates competing for the same jobs — we’re here to figure out what’s going to make you different,” she said.
Naegeli also told the students that their presence at GCU is well-deserved. According to Naegeli, 1,200 students are entering the Honors College, double its size from when the program first started in 2013.
Campus representatives provided honors students with resources available for academic success at the Honors Kickoff.
“As the Honors College we make up the top 7 to 8 percent of the entire University, so when we say students are in a great program, that means they are a select group and there is so much greatness coming out of the Honors program,” she said.
The event wrapped up with pizza and an information fair in which students could ask questions about the unique opportunities presented to them.
Business major Jerome Jeffcoat was standing with biomedical engineering major Hunter Chambers inside the Arena.
“I feel so honored to be here,” he said. “Even though GCU as a whole is about making a difference, the Honors College takes it to a whole different level. I’m excited to sharpen my ideas to become the best I can be and manage a multiple number of businesses someday.”
Chambers shared his passion for science and his dream to run his own research-and-development firm for prosthetics.
Hunter Chambers (left) and Jerome Jeffcoat liked the introduction they got to the Honors College.
“It feels very special to be here to make that possible,” he said. “Everybody is so enthusiastic, involved and driven — it’s not like any other college I’ve visited or heard of.”
Zachary Merhavy, a sophomore at GCU, has experienced the value of being a part of the Honors program firsthand.
He was one of 22 participants last year who took part in a six-week boot camp launched by the Honors College and hosted by Career Services and business professionals. As a first-year biology pre-med student, Merhavy struggled with branding himself.
“The Honors College showed me that I can be better than I am,” he said. “It gave me a lot of the confidence and ambition that I needed, and I hope that it can serve these students in such big ways.”
Farmer said, “These are very bright students with a bright future, and they know to come here for that fruition. The Honors College is going to do everything we can to pull out creativity and to make sure that they reach their destiny because we are who we say we are. Sitting there, I saw that their eyes were huge and fixated on what was being said, and you could tell that they were motivated.”
Contact Jeannette Cruz at jeannette.cruz@gcu.edu or (602) 639-6631.
The post Honors College has more brainpower than ever appeared first on GCU Today.
Story by Jeannette Cruz
Photos by Darryl Webb
GCU News Bureau
It didn’t take long for spectators such as U.S. soccer team legend Cobi Jones to find out what the hype around GCU Stadium was all about.
From the moment he flew into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, people asked the purpose for his visit. And when he said he was going to be a television analyst for the first soccer match at Grand Canyon University’s new stadium, natives raved about the University’s vast expansion. His visit left him raving, too.
Fans rushed the field to celebrate with players after the game.
“I had seen many commercials about GCU — the private Christian University — and that is really all I had known about it,” Jones said. “But when I heard about the addition of a new soccer stadium, I immediately knew I had to witness it. When we’re talking about the stadium and the atmosphere, this is truly one of a kind. To see soccer taken to heart by faculty, administrators, students and management — that’s something special.”
A sellout crowd of 6,402, the largest to ever see a college soccer game in Arizona, embraced a steamy summer night filled with a 4-2 GCU victory over Central Florida, dance music, food, entertainment and fireworks. It couldn’t have been more spectacular.
The celebration started early at Lopes Way when the Havocs, GCU’s nationally recognized student cheer section, led the March to the Match. It was a loud, blood-pumping experience that surprised 3-year-old Tristan Partee when he had his moment as an honorary Lope mascot. Seeing that the toddler was sitting on his father’s shoulders, the Havocs began shouting his name. Tristan threw up his tiny fingers and shouted, “Go, Lopes!”
The teams line up on the new field before the game.
The purple seats in the stadium filled up quickly, and five minutes before the game purple smoke signaled the entrance of thousands of students who ran around the field, waved their flags and lined up on the east side to welcome the team. Pastor Tim Griffin, GCU’s dean of students, led the opening prayer, and the Thundering Heard Pep Band performed the national anthem.
The crowd was loud right from the start of the game, and it went wild when, less than four minutes into the first half, GCU’s Damian German scored the first goal. Trumpets blared, towels were waved in the air, fans got on their feet and Thunder danced in the stands with a group of children giggling around him.
GCU alumnus Nick Halonen was with his wife, Keslie, their four children and neighbors. Together, they were a group of 16 in one of the front rows at the stadium’s west end.
“This place is crazy!” Halonen said, yelling over the noise of the crowd. “I love how many students are here, and this stadium — it’s beautiful!”
The Havocs led the students’ charge into the stadium.
His son, Joshua, 6, said he wants to become a Lope someday, and it’s easy to see why. “A Lope for life!” his dad said.
GCU President Brian Mueller said the evening felt surreal, adding, “This is a big day — Grand Canyon University’s brand is getting to be about bringing people together as a community, and soccer is going to be one of those components that does exactly that.”
Dawn Rogers, who helped to bring the first NCAA Final Four to metro Phoenix, was in the VIP tailgate along with Mueller and other notable public figures. Staring at the open field below, Rogers said, “It’s so wonderful for soccer players to have a Division I institution in the state of Arizona because there is so much talent. It’s really impressive to see how GCU continues to evolve and change. It has really made a commitment to students and student athletes.”
The Lopes took a 3-1 lead into halftime and turned the field over to 22 youngsters of the Sereno Soccer Club, who had been anxiously warming up and stretching before going out to showcase their skills.
The roar of the Havocs enveloped the stadium throughout the game.
When they were asked to describe the moment in a few words, they shouted, “Awesome!”, “Amazing!” and “Epically epic!”
“I think every little kid should have this opportunity,” Soreno coach Derek Gayen said. “They love the environment and they love the atmosphere. These are their role models out here, and they feel like they’re being treated like celebrities. This is going to create a long-lasting memory.”
Sophomore Titus Converse, a member of the Havocs, played goalie as dozens of children lined up for the opportunity to kick a soccer ball into the net. For the special occasion, Converse sported a large diaper and painted his chest with a purple antelope.
“I’ve been asked a few times if I ever use the diaper — the answer is no,” Converse said. “I just wanted to see the smiles on all the kid’s faces and give students an atmosphere that they can take with them for the rest of their lives. Nothing makes me happier.”
Coach Schellas Hyndman said, “I’ve coached many games in my career, but tonight was special.”
Rain Hernandez and Evan Stormer of Arizonans for Children were delighted to be part of the celebration. Earlier this month, men’s soccer coach Schellas Hyndman awarded four children in foster care with scholarships and gave three group homes 50 tickets to attend the soccer game.
“This was such a huge act of generosity,” Hernandez said.
Stormer said giving a disadvantaged foster child and their mentors the opportunity to participate in a huge community-based sporting event was “awe-inspiring.”
At the end of the night, the GCU players said unity, discipline and effort were the key to their victory.
“Our play was great,” German said. “We got what we wanted, we got the results and the crowd helped us the whole game. At any game, it’s one of the greatest feelings to have fans as motivation when we feel like giving up. They are the extra breath we need to keep working hard.”
In the midst of the fireworks and cheering crowd on the field, Hyndman couldn’t have been prouder.
“I’ve coached many games in my career, but tonight was special,” he said.
Fan support and community effort can do amazing things, he said, and he hopes that the Stadium becomes “a hidden gem in the Valley.”
“It was a huge night for GCU soccer and Grand Canyon University because there was so much expectation and so much hype. I’m so happy, and we’re ready to find ways to get better,” he said.
At GCU, that feeling of continued progress is never-ending.
● For a slideshow from the game, click here.
Contact Jeannette Cruz at (602) 639-6631 or jeannette.cruz@gcu.edu.
The post Historic opening of GCU Stadium is community rally appeared first on GCU Today.
Photos by Darryl Webb
GCU News Bureau
The spectacular opening night for GCU Stadium was a celebration like no other at Grand Canyon University. Fans got much more than a soccer game — the amazing atmosphere drew raves. The Lopes thrilled the record crowd with a 4-2 victory.
The post GCU Stadium opener more than just a game appeared first on GCU Today.
Doing an Army crawl for 50 yards across the intramural field was worth three points in GCU’s first LopeVenture.
Story by Mark Heller
Photos by Darryl Webb
GCU News Bureau
Long before noon during this 12-hour adventure, participants were already tired.
The inaugural LopeVenture pushed more than 100 Grand Canyon University students within 22 teams to attempt bizarre challenges, bonding and teamwork. The groups (3-5 students of their choosing per team) covered GCU’s campus, the Valley and the rest of Arizona on Saturday as they attempted to check off a wild and random “to do” list of more than 220 challenges in an effort to earn points for prizes.
Compared to some of the challenging items on the LopeVenture list, doing a Lopes Up in front of GCU Arena was pretty tame — which is why it was worth only one point.
“Team Illyria” T-shirts were made by one group of five members, the name a tribute to the school portrayed in the “She’s the Man” movie. By mid-morning, they’d hugged a stranger, dropped a grape in one member’s mouth from two stories above and chugged a six-shot espresso coffee, which was “quite disgusting,” according to one participant. The group planned to limit their long-distance traversing to the east Valley and central Phoenix.
A few minutes later, “Team Washington” — native state to a group of four students — headed south through campus in an attempt to find a car to use for some of the non-campus challenges. They’d already given a random flower to a stranger, danced with some GCU employees, picked up recycling and managed to fit three of them onto a bicycle long enough for the photo opp. Jumping into a pool with all of their clothes on was on the “to do” list along with swimming with a goldfish (possibly the cracker).
Not to be outdone in the early stages of LopeVenture, “Basic Lopes,” a group of four roommates, already had checked off 15 of the 220+ challenges by 11 a.m., including arm-wrestling a Panda Express employee and asking strangers for food.
Up next: Figure out how to pet a tiger.
“It’s been fun, but I don’t know who came up with this list or one of this size,” said one team member.
The “who” behind this epic event was GCU outdoor recreation coordinator Chad Schlundt, as a quest to offer students “more than just GCU but Phoenix and even Arizona.” This hybrid was inspired by the “Amazing Race” and “Questival,” but athleticism was hardly a prerequisite to compete.
“We’re trying to cater to everyone, so if you don’t have a car, if you’re not a Phoenix or Arizona native, or you have zero athletic ability, you still have the opportunity to participate and do very well,” Schlundt said.
To wit, the 220 challenges spanned 10 categories:
That meant 20-25 challenges per category to choose from, and teams performed whichever they chose. Each challenge was worth between 1-10 points based on degree of difficulty and ease of accessibility (or lack thereof).
The challenges ranged geographically from the GCU campus all the way south to Mt. Lemmon in Tucson, north to the Mogollon Rim, and any part(s) of the Valley in between:
Each group was given a multi-page list of the available challenges when they checked in around sunrise on Saturday morning. For the next 12 hours, all group members had to be present when each challenge was completed. A photo or video with an Arizona state flag replica (given to every team at check-in) had to be sent to Schlundt’s team via Groupmeet app for authentication purposes (so no “divide and conquer” strategy allowed).
The contest ended at 7 p.m. Saturday, and the winners by a narrow margin were Aaron Canepa, Drew Schwab, Kailey Arnone and Taylor White. Winners received prizes such as a GoPro, Fitbit, “Beats” headphones and gift cards, all donated by a local Walmart.
“The goal is for local and non-local students to learn about campus, Phoenix, Arizona and each other,” Schlundt said. “See the beauty of Arizona, build community and start the school year on a high note.”
● Here’s a list of the top finishers:
| Teams | Challenges | Total Points |
| Aaron Canepa, Drew Schwab, Kailey Arnone, Taylor White team extraordinaire | 93 | 324 |
| #ulvCreme | 102 | 317 |
| Unreal Madrid | 80 | 284 |
| #ULVMomI’mHavingFun | 77 | 262 |
| #ULVTeamIllyria | 56 | 165 |
| #ULVDreamTeam | 48 | 154 |
| #ULVWinners | 41 | 124 |
| @ basiclopes | 33 | 119 |
| #ULVWe’reLost | 36 | 116 |
| #ULVSLEJ | 32 | 113 |
| WeepingWillows | 38 | 111 |
| The Elite Eight | 22 | 80 |
| Out of State Lopes | 29 | 79 |
| #ulvwashington | 26 | 74 |
| #ULVNorCalUnited | 9 | 59 |
| #ULVmonsoon | 19 | 43 |
| Change Name 2. | 8 | 40 |
| #ULVSQUAD | 13 | 27 |
Contact Mark Heller at (602) 639-7516 or mark.heller@gcu.edu
The post ‘LopeVenture’ gives students the ultimate to-do list appeared first on GCU Today.
Story and photos by Laurie Merrill
GCU News Bureau
It’s a question as old as the quandary it represents: How do you put a new spin on a time-worn tale?
William Symington, College of Fine Arts and Production assistant dean and faculty scenic designer, grappled with that very challenge in creating the set for the “The Mousetrap,” the longest running play in history.
William Symington, College of Fine Arts and Production assistant dean and faculty scenic designer, created a new twist on an old theme.
Audience members can see Symington’s solution when COFAP’s production of the play, written by Agatha Christie and first performed on stage in 1952, opens Friday at Ethington Theatre.
Tickets to the show, which runs two consecutive weekends, can be purchased here. GCU students get in free with identification.
“Artists interpret,” Symington said. “We decide what the story is about and what the key moments are, and this is something we call ‘concept.’ It’s not plot — plot is what happens — it’s what the story is trying to tell us. It’s a point of view, a moral and ethos, a communication of human experience.”
Whether designing the set, lighting, costumes, props and so forth, each artist has something to say about the concept, and each uses the medium that is his or her specialty to say it, Symington said.
A writer creates a picture in your mind. A painter begins where words leave off.
In theater, designers “reach into peoples’ psyches and pull out the parts that help tell the story,” he said.
Senior Amber Warner adding paint to the murderous tale of “The Mousetrap.”
As set designer, Symington uses such tools as paint, scenery, furniture and decorations to create eras, periods and locales.
“The important thing is the story and the concept and to create a space to tell it in,” he said.
If portraying a grand setting, he might make things tall and big, while he might do the opposite to depict an oppressive setting.
He might choose a concrete surface to reflect a cold, abrasive setting, or if designing a 1970s set, he might use colors such as harvest gold and burnt sienna. A hot apple pie might appear in a scene at grandmother’s house.
For “The Mousetrap,” the concept is “hidden,” as befits a whodunit murder mystery.
Antiques create a dated touch.
The story takes place in a former abbey that has been turned into a bed and breakfast. It’s meant to be a drab place of faded glory. Symington used darker wood, velvet cloth, dusty curtains and antique furniture to show this.
The set has certain have-to-have things because the script refers to them: a huge window, big fireplace and snow outside. On Ethington’s smaller stage, these were somewhat difficult to create.
But the rest of the set’s secrets can’t be revealed here. The set contains unknown things that the audience can’t see or doesn’t know about. There will be copious use of shadow and dimness and things that are hiding.
“Viewers expect to be surprised by a whodunit,” he said.
Contact Laurie Merrill at (602)639-6511 or laurie.merrill@gcu.edu.
The post GCU set sheds new light on ‘The Mousetrap’ appeared first on GCU Today.
Photos by Darryl Webb
GCU News Bureau
Christian rapper Lecrae always draws a big crowd at Grand Canyon University Arena, and Saturday night was no exception.
The post Lecrae performs in GCU Arena appeared first on GCU Today.
By Karen Fernau
GCU News Bureau
Late night pizzas in the dorm. A grab-and-go donut and coffee before early morning class. Burger and fries on Friday night with friends.
For many students, college plays havoc on their waistline and health.
Students are urged to make vegetables a key item on their daily food menu.
“They might not gain the ‘freshman 15,’ but too many college students do put on weight and do not eat healthy,” said Connie Colbert, director of the Canyon Health and Wellness Clinic at Grand Canyon University.
Weight gain is not the only consequence, she said. A diet high in sugar, salt, fat and calories can zap students of energy and the ability to concentrate. College students with bad eating habits also are more vulnerable to physical illnesses and depression.
The first step toward a healthy diet is knowledge, said Colbert, who encourages students to attend campus wellness seminars to learn guidelines for healthy eating. A seminar is scheduled for 4-5:30 p.m. on Sept. 12-15 in The Grove residence halls.
The wellness center also offers the following 10 tips:
Make Smart Choices: Choose baked over fried. Order brown instead of white rice. Swap the crunch of croutons for sunflower seeds. Choose a side of broccoli over french fries. Opt for a diet of fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins.
Portion Size Matters: Experts blame growing waistlines on super-sized portions. Follow these guidelines to avoid overeating: A portion of chicken, fish, beef or other protein is the size and width of your palm. Starchy carbohydrates such as pasta, potatoes and rice are the size of your fist. A serving of fat, including peanut butter, olive oil or butter, is half a thumb. A fruit serving fits in the palm of one hand, vegetables in the palm of two hands.
Stock Healthy Snacks: Make your dorm room a junk-food free zone. Instead, stock up on fresh fruits, low-fat popcorn, whole-grain cereals and low-fat milk, peanut and other nut butters, whole grain crackers or low-fat cheeses.
Limit Sugary Drinks: College students too often reach for soda, energy drinks and other high sugar beverages. Along with sugar and calories, they cause blood sugar to spike and then crash, zapping energy, increasing hunger and leading to weight gain. New research shows that diet soda is equally harmful.
Read Labels: Many labels, including “all natural,” are unregulated guidelines and can be misleading. That “all natural” granola bar might have more sugar than a candy bar. Fat-free salad dressings and snacks often are loaded with sugar.
Don’t Skip Breakfast: The first meal of the day breaks the nightlong fast and jumpstarts the body and mind. Studies show that breakfast eaters are more alert, more creative and energetic. They also are less inclined to overeat the remainder of the day.
Beware of Stress Eating: College is a time of change, and the stress of acclimating to school can trigger overeating. People sometimes eat in response to anxiety, homesickness, sadness or stress, and all of these can be part of adapting to being away at school. Be aware of your connection between mood and food. Employ stress-management techniques such as meditation, yoga or exercise instead of turning to food for comfort.
Stay Hydrated: Every system in your body depends on water, and drinking enough is essential for health and energy. Not drinking enough leads to dehydration, a dangerous condition that causes fatigue and, in extreme cases, death. Health experts suggest drinking at least eight 8-ounce glasses a day, and more if you’re spending time outside in the heat or exercising. Get in the habit of drinking water all day long.
Move and a Good Night’s Sleep: Make exercising a daily priority. Physical activity helps control weight, improves mood and controls stress. So does getting enough sleep. Research now suggests that too little sleep leads to making poor food choices, overeating, depression and difficulty concentrating. Most college students require somewhere between 6-10 hours of sleep a night. If you’re tired or irritable, chances are you are not getting enough sleep.
Cheat Occasionally: Going out to eat or grabbing an ice cream cone with friends is a time-honored ritual. Go ahead and indulge, just not every day. Make that brownie topped with caramel and whipped cream a special treat.
Contact Karen Fernau at (602) 639-8344 or karen.fernau@gcu.edu.
The post Campus wellness seminars to offer healthy-eating tips appeared first on GCU Today.
Story by Rick Vacek
Photos by Darryl Webb
GCU News Bureau
If you’ve lived a little, you probably have lost touch with more than a few people. They moved on. You moved on. Life changed. It just happens.
But keeping in touch with people who need your help is central to Christianity, and Grand Canyon University President Brian Mueller passionately addressed that subject Monday morning at the first Chapel of the new academic year, which drew to GCU Arena the largest Chapel crowd in its history — more than 7,000 students and staff.
GCU President Brian Mueller addresses Chapel on Monday.
Mueller talked about how the University has made it its mission to do everything it can to give a neighborhood that time seemingly forgot a new era with a positive destiny. He emphasized that it doesn’t happen unless students are just as devoted to the cause.
“What has happened here in the last couple years has been transformative on this campus,” Mueller told them, “but you have made an unbelievable impact because of your willingness to embrace this forgotten neighborhood. … People are watching that and they’re wondering, ‘What is it about those people? What is it about those Grand Canyon students?’ And it’s having an impact.”
They see those students going into west Phoenix and other Valley areas in need and providing all manner of community service, from Habitat for Humanity to inner-city schools to homeless shelters to rescue missions to ministering to children in local parks. They see happy faces, eager to serve. They see Christianity at work — and it can be hard work.
Mueller said he read several books this summer about the early years of Christianity. He noted that right from the scene in Matthew 28:1-6, at a time when Jesus’ disciples were wondering if they had given up everything for nothing, it was made clear that they indeed would continue to give and often would get little in return in this life — in return for a much greater next life.
The Chapel band performs at the start of Chapel.
That message carried through, Mueller said, to Romans 6:3-5, when Paul’s letter says we are united with Christ in death, to 1 Peter 1:3-7, which reminds us just how much adversity there will be for Christians.
In those days, the adversity often was in the form of extreme diseases that would kill wide swaths of the population. Mueller told the story of how two plagues in the Roman Empire in the first 250 years after Christ’s time on Earth resulted in many people, even family members, often being sent away to die.
“They were forgotten,” Mueller said.
But not by Christians, who would take care of them even if it meant a death sentence for them, too. It’s no different, he pointed out, from what needs to happen today. It probably won’t mean giving up your life, but it means donating at least part of it.
He told the story of how his 86-year-old mother practiced her faith for years by going to a nursing home — while raising eight children — and seeking out the residents who were most abandoned.
The first Chapel of the new academic year drew an overflow crowd to GCU Arena.
He book-ended his talk with the story of Kayla Mueller, the aid worker from Prescott who was kidnapped by ISIS in 2013 and has been abused and tortured ever since. When her capturers showed a video of her, he said, her mother noted that her eyes told the story of her determination to stick with her beliefs.
“There was a clearness in her eyes and a clarity in what she was doing that was unbelievably impactful,” he said.
There is a direct correlation to what GCU is doing in its neighborhood. Mueller closed with an eloquent summation of the University’s mission and students’ role in it:
“This side of town is not forgotten anymore. It’s not forgotten because you brought Jesus here, not in what you say, not in the preaching that you do, not in the sermons that you give. You brought Him here in the way that you have embraced forgotten people. That’s Christianity. That’s Christianity! And whether people agree with us or not, they can’t resist that.
Chapel gives students and staff a chance to gather and worship as a group.
“You’ve made an incredible impact, and my prayer is that this year we double down on that with the Habitat program and with the public school program and with the programs in the park. Sometimes individually you don’t get a chance to understand the major impact you’re making in doing those things, but you are.
“We’ve come here to study hard and to learn and to make friends and to give it our best effort and to have a great time, but my prayer is that you will get from this, in your participation in this, an understanding that Jesus makes an unbelievable difference. Not only can He transform your life, He can transform an entire community. And He’s doing it.
“Thank you very much for doing that. I have to believe that as God looks down here, He said, ‘I’m impressed with the new buildings and the new classrooms and the new laboratories and the new athletic facilities and the residence halls, but that’s not what GCU is all about.’ GCU is all about remembering forgotten people. Christianity is all about remembering forgotten people.”
● For a replay of Mueller’s talk, click here.
● Next Monday: No Chapel (Labor Day holiday)
Contact Rick Vacek at 602-639-8203 or rick.vacek@gcu.edu.
The post A Chapel message that’s not to be forgotten appeared first on GCU Today.
