Darin Lenz publishes article on ‘Citizens of the World’

Wayne.Steffen — Tue, 19 May 2015 23:50:07 +0000

Darin Lenz, Ph.D., associate professor of history, had an article published in "Social Sciences and Missions" 28, no. 1-2 (2015): 32-56. The title is: “’Citizens of the World’: Nationalism, Ecumenical Missions, and the Idea of World Unity before the First World War.” More at booksandjournals.brillonline.com/content/journals/18748945/28/1-2

Top of the class

Wayne.Steffen — Tue, 19 May 2015 00:04:59 +0000

As the end of the 2014-2015 traditional school year drew near, students were honored for academic success at Fresno Pacific University.

Harold Haak Award

Alfredo Ramirez, a history/mathematics major from Waterford, CA, was given the Harold Haak Award. Named for the former FPU president, winners are selected by the faculty. “It means you are widely known and highly respected,” said Karen Cianci, Ph.D., traditional undergraduate dean, who recalled during the May 7 presentation that as a freshman Ramirez was so quiet he would neither speak in class nor see professors during office hours. “Everyone here is just great at bringing people out,” said Ramirez, who is applying for graduate programs in mathematics.

Academic Awards

Also presented May 7 in the Administration Offices were the awards for highest grade point average. In a first, six students awards scored perfect GPAs.

Vanessa Andrade-Cantu, a psychology major from Fresno, plans to go to Spain after graduation. Ariel Cormack, a psychology major from Sanger, plans to volunteer in a mission abroad program. Sarah Jalomo, a liberal studies major from Fresno, plans to get her teaching credential. Derek Kliewer, a biblical studies major from Reedley, plans to attend Geneva College for a master’s in higher education. Mattie Parker, a pre-law major from Visalia, plans to intern at Amor, a human rights organization, then attend law school. Ashken Chamasanyan, a psychology major from Fresno, was not present.

Photo (back row, from left): Kliewer, Cormack and Jalomo. Front row, from left: Andrade-Cantu and Parker.

Seminary Awards

Among the awards presented at the annual Fresno Pacific Biblical Seminary Gala May 7 were:

· Nathan Varvis, Fresno, Best Advanced Family Studies Paper, “Elite Athletics and the Female Athlete: A Socio-Cultural Examination.” Varvis graduated with a Master’s Degree in Family Therapy and will be working at Link Care Counseling Center, Fresno.

· Andrew Lynch, Fresno, Best Senior Paper for Ministry Students, “Be Here Now: Rejecting Distraction in a Hyper-Connected World.” Lynch graduated with an M.A. Degree in New Testament and is pastor of family ministry at Northwest Church, Fresno.

Honors Banquet

Undergraduate students across the university were recognized for their achievements at the annual Honors Banquet April 24.

SCHOOL OF BUSINESS

Business Administration Senior Highest Honors—Elizabeth Funk Senior Honors—William DePledge, Jessi Wallace Junior Highest Honors—Alexander Hussain Junior Honors—Alisha Gold, David Vartanian

SCHOOL OF HUMANITIES, RELIGION AND SOCIAL SCIENCES

Art Senior Highest Honors—Breann Stevens Junior Highest Honors—Amber Cielo Junior Honors—Wesley Coles, Myranda Smith

Biblical & Religious Studies Senior Highest Honors—Derek Kliewer Senior Honors—James Burkdoll, Allison Ens Junior Honors—Jessica Cruz

Communication Senior Highest Honors—Makenzi Dunckel Senior Honors—Candace Cortez, Thomas Swan Junior Highest Honors—Celeste Camacho Junior Honors—Samantha Ceballos, Ryan Dildine

Contemporary Christian Ministries Senior Highest Honors—Ashley Jourgensen Senior Honors—Ryan Ruhl Junior Highest Honors—Sara Martin Junior Honors—Alexander Hussain, Joshua Lund

Criminal Justice Senior Highest Honors—Mongnchi Xiong Junior Highest Honors—Nicholas Pate Junior Honors—Gisell Pantaleon, Elizabeth Villanueva

English Senior Highest Honors—Katherine Janzen Senior Honors—Leann Lo, Emily Nikkel Junior Highest Honors—Ashley Spinelli Junior Honors—Rebecca Houser

Intercultural Studies Senior Highest Honors—Dallas Nord Senior Honors—Emily Broomfield Junior Highest Honors—Jesica Uriostegui Junior Honors—Thomas Swan

History University Scholars Award—Payton Miller Senior Highest Honors/Classics and Ancient History Award—Charlie Castanon Senior Honors—Katherine Janzen, Alfredo Ramirez Junior Highest Honors—Anthony Sakayan Junior Honors—Aaron Panttaja, Maxton Vieira

Liberal Studies Senior Highest Honors—Sarah Jalomo Senior Honors—Nicole Beckman, Sara Martin, Christiane Miller Junior Highest Honors—Natalie Van Groningen Junior Honors—Evelyn Smith, Michelle Steitz

Music Senior Highest Honors—Maxton Vieira Senior Honors—Tim Fletcher, Kelsey Loehner Junior Highest Honors—Jesse Micu Junior Honors—Kylie Ehlert

Philosophy Senior Highest Honors—Shiniece Owens

Political Science Senior Highest Honors—Caroline Stevenson Senior Honors—Taylor Long, Alberto Sanchez, Patricia Vazquez Topete Junior Highest Honors—Karla Garcia Junior Honors—Nicholas Valla

Pre-Law Senior Highest Honors—Mattie Parker Senior Honors—Lauren Pieretti, Vasmer Vang Junior Highest Honors—Taylor Buller Junior Honors—Michelle Glover

Psychology Senior Highest Honors—Kelsey Conklin Senior Honors—Amanda Arriola, Ariel Cormack Junior Highest Honors—Kahlei Benevedes Junior Honors—Madison Pena, David Woods

Social Science Secondary Teaching Senior Highest Honors—Paige Ainley Senior Honors—Tyler Hodges, Audra Shipley

Social Work Senior Highest Honors—Scarlett Ceja Senior Honors—Amy Gonzalez, Amy Siemens Junior Honors—Dallhana Garcia, Jesica Uriostegui

Sociology Senior Highest Honors—Amanda Arriola Senior Honors—Araceli Arrambide, Victoria Schaefer Junior Highest Honors—Dallhana Garcia Junior Honors—Sarah Cuevas

Spanish Language & Culture Senior Highest Honors—Jhosselyn Vargas Senior Honors—Destiny Guerrero, Cynthia Gonzalez Junior Highest Honors—Filiberto Ramos Junior Honors—Jennifer Arellano, Zuleika Ornelas

SCHOOL OF NATURAL SCIENCES

Applied Mathematics Senior Highest Honors—Trent Hinkle Senior Honors—Alexander Ours, Colton Wilson Junior Highest Honors—Joshua Ewert

Biology Senior Highest Honors—Samantha Clark Senior Honors—Allison Frye, Jerome Trembley Junior Highest Honors—Sarah Sperling

Chemistry Senior Highest Honors—Elijah Roth Senior Honors—Nicole Zalewski Junior Highest Honors—Jonathan Passmore

Mathematics Senior Highest Honors—Chase Conklin Senior Honors—David Maes, Alfredo Ramirez Junior Honors—Garrison Bennet

Pre-Health Sciences Senior Honors—Emma Heinrichs, Cody Kinsman

Kinesiology Senior Highest Honors—Kyle Mauriello Senior Honors—Alyse Arentz, Corie Hamilton Junior Highest Honors—Vanessa Montes Junior Honors—Leslie Nelson-Burk, Aaron Schwartz

FPU Class of 2015 urged to dream God’s dream

Wayne.Steffen — Mon, 18 May 2015 18:18:07 +0000

God gives each of his followers a dream—Fresno Pacific University graduates were urged to find theirs and find happiness during commencement May 8, 2015.

“What dreams has God put on your life as you graduate?” asked featured speaker Juan Martínez, whose speech, “Dreaming God’s Dream, was based on the biblical passage Revelation 7:9-10. “What is your vocation, your unique contribution to our world, our society?”

Martínez, Ph.D., vice provost, academic director of the Hispanic Center and professor of Hispanic studies and pastoral leadership at Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, spoke to about 519 graduates—and in front of some 7,500 family members and friends—in an evening ceremony at Selland Arena at the Fresno Convention and Entertainment Center in downtown Fresno. Among the graduates were approximately 227 from the traditional program, 194 from bachelor’s degree completion and 98 master’s candidates, including 23 from Fresno Pacific Biblical Seminary.

Growing up in Kettleman City as the son of migrant workers who became ministers to the people they once worked alongside showed Martínez God’s dream for him. “He invited me into a life of ministry and service. That call, that vision has guided my life,” he said.

Now an ordained pastor in the Mennonite Brethren Church, the denomination with which FPU is affiliated, Martínez is also a member of the FPU Board of Trustees. He has a doctorate from Fuller and an M.Div. from Mennonite Brethren Biblical Seminary (now Fresno Pacific Biblical Seminary).

Like Martínez, most of the graduates grew up in the Central Valley, and Martínez dared hope that many of them would find God’s dream here. “You folks represent the diversity of this Valley. Can you believe it was God’s will that you be here? That God wants to use you here? That God’s dreams can become reality here?” he asked. “What might God’s dream be for you, in this place, as you envision the tomorrow that God wants you to help build?”

Awards

Awards to students, faculty and community partners were announced during graduation:

· The Harold Haak Award went to Alfredo Ramirez, a history/mathematics major from Waterford, CA. Winners of the award, named for the former president of FPU and California State University, Fresno, are selected by the faculty.

· Academic Awards went to Vanessa Andrade-Cantu, a psychology major from Fresno; Ariel Cormack, a psychology major from Sanger; Sarah Jalomo, a liberal studies major from Fresno; Derek Kliewer, a biblical studies major from Reedley; Mattie Parker, a pre-law major from Visalia; and Ashken Chamasanyan, a psychology major from Fresno.

· Greg Camp, Ph.D., professor of biblical and religious studies and Greek, was honored with the NETA (Nickel Excellence in Teaching Award).

· Lisa Casarez, founder and CEO of Angles of Grace Family Foster Agency, Fresno, was given the Seminary Service Award.

Two members of the Class of 1965, Tim Fast and Paula (Payne) Klassen, were honored as Golden Graduates. This class was the first to graduate with bachelor's degrees.

Summit looks beyond charity

Wayne.Steffen — Thu, 14 May 2015 21:44:25 +0000

A record-breaking 175 people attended the latest entry in FPU’s The Work of Our Hands Summit Series.

“Business as an Agent of Change” took place Thursday, April 30, at Northwest Church, 5415 N. West Ave., Fresno, and was sponsored by the FPU Center for Community Transformation and School of Business.

The event was for business and professional people and students who want to go beyond charity to create a flourishing community. Participants:

· Connected with others who care about business solutions to poverty

· Heard innovative ideas for social entrepreneurship

· Were part of practical workshops that equip people of faith to bring their unique resources to the table

· Learned how local churches and community-based organizations use business to solve social problems

Ivan Gonzalez was the keynote speaker and Fresno Mayor Ashley Swearengin presented as well. “The buzz in the room was palpable,” said Randy White, D. Min., CCT executive director. “Ivan Gonzalez is a skilled and gifted speaker. I felt the workshops reached a new level of quality, and the mayor, as always, was very adept at building vision.”

Business coordinator of the Christian Community Development Association, Gonzalez is an experienced social entrepreneur who has spent more than 25 years preparing leaders who make a difference in their communities. He has worked with start-ups and mid-size businesses that have a social impact and focus on multiple bottom lines. He also directs strategic partnerships for the Steward’s Market in Chicago.

Students honor Saroyan

Wayne.Steffen — Tue, 12 May 2015 00:19:17 +0000

FPU students were winners in the 2015 William Saroyan Story Writing Contest.

Maria Jimenez and Jorge Gutierrez took first and second place, respectively, in the college division of the 31st annual competition honoring the Pulitzer Prize- and Academy Award- winning author and Fresno native known for writing about his home community and its people. In all, 26 students from throughout California submitted stories written in the Saroyan style.

The William Saroyan Society gave cash prizes to first-, second- and third- place winners in grades one through college. This year’s theme was “Tolerance.”

Jimenez’s essay “No More Pigeonholing People” encourages people to consider another person’s overall circumstances before making judgments. A senior next fall majoring in business administration with an emphasis in accounting and finance, Jimenez was born in Mexico and raised in Fresno. “I like participating in writing contests because it makes me more well-rounded,” she said, adding it also challenges the perception that people interested in accounting care only about numbers.

Gutierrez wrote a short story, “A Dark Age & A Firebird’s Flight,” about a complicated relationship between a young man and his parents, particularly his father. Gutierrez is from Reedley and will be a junior next fall majoring in multimedia production. “I’ve never won anything,” he said. “It was a surprise, a motivation to keep writing.”

Harris, Dermon judge business contest

Wayne.Steffen — Mon, 11 May 2015 20:34:39 +0000

Justin Dermon, Ph.D., assistant professor of business, and Breck Harris, Ed.D., professor of business, acted as judges for the Second Annual 157 Entrepreneurship Expo at the California State University, Fresno, Business Center on May 5, 2015. They were part of a team of business professionals who judged approximately 30 Fresno State students on their entrepreneurial business ideas. Judges evaluated students on a variety of criteria, including the feasibility of their idea, their ability to answer questions asked by judges and quality of marketing materials. More at fresnostatenews.com/2015/05/fresno-state-students-to-present-startup-businesses-at-annual-expo/

FPU explores work with Hawaiian foundation

Wayne.Steffen — Thu, 07 May 2015 23:55:43 +0000

A visit by a leader in community service in Hawaii could lead to partnerships with Fresno Pacific University.

University leaders welcomed Partners in Development at a morning reception April 13 in BC Lounge on the main campus. Among the approximately 20 guests were Jan Dill, founder and president of Partners in Development Foundation in Hawaii; his wife, Judy; Richard Kriegbaum, Ph.D., FPU president; and Stephen Varvis, Ph.D., provost/senior vice president.

PIDF (pidf.org) was founded in 1997 and serves native Hawaiian children and families through 11 initiatives focusing on early childhood education, foster children, homeless families, education, a safe house, natural farming, caregiver mentoring and voter education. Another of the foundation’s priorities is to preserve the Hawaiian language and culture.

Growing up in the 1950-60s Hawaiians were marginalized and stereotyped on their own islands and suffered high rates of poverty and crime. “I grew up not wanting to be Hawaiian,” Jan Dill said. Today PIDF has 3,000 employees and is among the largest corporate social work organizations in the state. The foundation is coming to the mainland with a program in New Orleans and has been invited to New York City.

Jan Dill presented a translation of the Bible (Baibala) for the university and seminary libraries. “We hope the visit will be a catalyst for an ongoing relationship that could include research projects, internships and recruitment of students from Hawaii,” said Andrea McAleenan, associate professor of business and director of regional campus business programs, who organized the visit.

From left: Varvis; Jan Dill; Kriegbaum; Valerie Rempel, Ph.D., associate dean, Fresno Pacific Biblical Seminary; Kevin Enns-Rempel, M.A., director, Hiebert Library

Earth Day at FPU

Wayne.Steffen — Tue, 28 Apr 2015 20:07:03 +0000

Alternatives was the theme of a celebration of Earth Day April 22.

Several faculty and staff members brought their electric cars to the main FPU campus, discussing their features and in some cases offering test drives. Other participants included Valley Edible Landscapes, a community benefit organization sponsored by On Ramps Covenant Church, which offers a variety of sustainable, regenerative and low-water options; and CaliforniaFIRST, a partnership between county government and a private financing company to provide upfront funding for energy efficiency, renewable energy and water efficiency improvements for homes and businesses.

Student scientists study a range of issues

Wayne.Steffen — Wed, 22 Apr 2015 22:15:58 +0000

About 130 FPU students displayed projects during Undergraduate Research Day April 16.

The annual event took place in the AIMS Hall of Mathematics & Science on the main Fresno campus and was hosted by the School of Natural Resources. Individuals and teams performed experiments in biology, chemistry, kinesiology, psychology, mathematics and other disciplines and presented their findings through posters. Among the winners were: Understanding Botrytis (a plant fungus)—From Pathogenicity to Genomes, Determining Recovery Time in Athletes and The Ugly Truth of Self-Perception.

Breck Harris article included in book

Wayne.Steffen — Wed, 22 Apr 2015 21:09:51 +0000

Breck A. Harris, Ed.D., professor of business, published the article "Effective Integration of Course Syllabus and Online Video Technology to Explain Student Role in Flipped Classroom Design for Blended Course" as part of the 2015 book "It Works For Me, Flipping the Classroom: Shared Tips for Effective Teaching" by Hal Blythe, Charlie Sweet and Russell Carpenter, Stillwater, OK: New Forums Press Inc.

Students speak out for Cal Grant

Wayne.Steffen — Mon, 20 Apr 2015 23:07:30 +0000

Government, student and university leaders called on California Governor Jerry Brown to preserve higher education access during a Student Call to Action in support of the Cal Grant April 17 at Fresno Pacific University.

“Cal Grants are not just a line item in the budget—they are futures,” Assemblyman Henry T. Perea (D-District 31), told those gathered in the Atrium of the AIMS Hall of Mathematics and Science on the main FPU campus, 1717 S. Chestnut Ave., Fresno. “Cal Grant students are the ones that need help,” he added.

For the 2015-2016 state budget, Brown is proposing an 11.3 percent reduction to the Cal Grant maximum award for students who will attend private, nonprofit universities. The Cal Grant is especially important for students who are the first in their families to attend a college or university—and some of those students spoke. “Every Cal Grant student is going to make an impact on California in the future,” said Janet Salcedo, a Cal Grant recipient and co-president (with Karina Reyes) of the FPU Chapter of Friday Night Live, the student advocacy group that organized the call to action.

The Cal Grant is the most effective way to help California students help their bachelor’s degree, and 45 percent of FPU students get a Cal Grant. “Most wouldn’t be here without it,” said FPU President Richard Kriegbaum, Ph.D.

State aid to private, nonprofit colleges and universities is a bargain for taxpayers since a high percent of FPU Cal Grant students graduate in four years, then go on to serve the region as educators, business people and professionals. “We are not private and elite, we are private serving the public good,” said Stephen Varvis, Ph.D., FPU provost/senior vice president.

Other speakers included Nathan Alonzo, district representative for Senator Andy Vidak; and Gonzolo Villegas (a 2012 FPU graduate), representative for Senator Tom Berryhill. Friday Night Live has also organized a video and banner-signing campaign. Students will deliver the banner—reading “#wearecalgrant”—to the Governor’s Office Tuesday, April 21. There will also be a video will be distributed via YouTube and social media.

PHOTO: From left Reyes and Salcedo address the audience.

Record graduating class for May

Wayne.Steffen — Mon, 20 Apr 2015 17:32:50 +0000

A record number of graduates and a new venue set Fresno Pacific University’s spring 2015 commencement apart.

Approximately 570 will graduate in a ceremony starting at 7:00 p.m. Friday, May 8. Graduates—estimates are about 245 from the traditional program, 215 from bachelor’s degree completion and 113 master’s candidates, including 24 from Fresno Pacific Biblical Seminary—will gather with their families and friends in Selland Arena at the Fresno Convention and Entertainment Center, near the corner of M and Ventura streets in downtown Fresno.

“Commencement is always a great day, and this year is especially thrilling because we have more graduates than ever ready to step into positions in the Valley and beyond,” said Stephen Varvis, Ph.D., provost/senior vice president. “Our goal and hope is that they will be recognized for effective ethical leadership, generous and compassionate service and professional excellence in business, education, management, ministry and a range of other occupations. In all they do they embody the kingdom of Christ on earth.”

The featured speaker will be Juan Martínez, Ph.D., vice provost, academic director of the Hispanic Center and professor of Hispanic studies and pastoral leadership at Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, CA. The name if his speech will be “Dreaming God’s Dream,” based on the biblical passage Revelation 7:9-10.

An ordained pastor in the Mennonite Brethren Church, the denomination with which FPU is affiliated, Martínez is also a member of the FPU Board of Trustees. He has a doctorate from Fuller and an M.Div. from Mennonite Brethren Biblical Seminary (now Fresno Pacific Biblical Seminary).

Martínez has international experience and Central Valley connections. He has been rector of the Latin American Anabaptist Seminary, Guatemala City, Guatemala; director of Hispanic ministries for the Pacific District Conference of the Mennonite Brethren Church, Fresno; director of Instituto Bíblico del Pacífico, Fresno; pastor of Iglesia Hermanos Menonitas, Parlier, CA; and assistant pastor at Iglesia Evangélica, Avenal, CA.

In his research and academic work, Martínez focuses on Latino Protestantism in the United States, especially issues of intercultural church life. His public ministry is centered on immigration reform. In that role he serves as coordinator of La Red de Pastores y Líderes del Sur de California, a network of hundreds of Latino churches in Southern California. He has two adult children, Xaris and Josué, and a daughter-in-law, Jackie.

Summit explores human as well as financial profits

Wayne.Steffen — Mon, 20 Apr 2015 17:21:49 +0000

What businesses can do for people as well as profit margins is the subject of a session hosted by Fresno Pacific University.

“Business as an Agent of Change” will be from 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Thursday, April 30. The event is part of The Work of Our Hands Summit Series. The location is Northwest Church, 5415 N. West Ave., Fresno.

Admission is $35 for individuals, $25 each for two or more from the same organization and $10 for students. Lunch is included. Register online at the-work-of-our-hands-summit-series-2015.eventbrite.com. For more information, contact Jeanette Jaurena at Jeanette.jaurena@fresno.edu or 559-453-2367. The event is sponsored by the FPU Center for Community Transformation and School of Business.

Ivan Gonzalez will be the keynote speaker. Business coordinator of the Christian Community Development Association, Gonzalez is an experienced social entrepreneur who has spent more than 25 years preparing leaders who make a difference in their communities. He has worked with start-ups and mid-size businesses that have a social impact and focus on multiple bottom lines. He also directs strategic partnerships for the Steward’s Market in Chicago.

The event is for business and professional people and students who want to go beyond charity to create a flourishing community. Participants will:

· Connect with others who care about business solutions to poverty

· Hear innovative ideas for social entrepreneurship

· Be part of practical workshops that equip people of faith to bring their unique resources to the table

· Learn how local churches and community-based organizations use business to solve social problems

Check out a short video youtube.com/watch?v=yp-qGgXCubY&feature=player_detailpage

MCC Sale raises $175,000 at FPU

Wayne.Steffen — Tue, 14 Apr 2015 23:18:32 +0000

The 48th West Coast Mennonite Relief Sale and Auction raised at least $175,000 during its run at Fresno Pacific University.

Among the highlights April 10-11 were the sale of more than 500 quilts—including at least one that was auctioned for $5,000. In addition, 17 food booths representing six cultures served the appetites of thousands of visitors. Traditionalists enjoyed 4,000 verenika, dumplings with meat gravy, and 350 dozen zwieback, “twice baked” bread.

Individuals, families and Mennonite Brethren and Mennonite Church congregations, along with FPU student, faculty and staff volunteers, came together to put on the sale, which took place on the main FPU campus, 1717 S. Chestnut Ave., Fresno. The 150 students organized by the FPU Office of Spiritual Formation contributed around 450 hours.

The sale and auction benefits the work of Mennonite Central Committee (MCC), an international organization that provides relief, development and peace in the name of Christ. The West Coast MCC is headquartered in Reedley and Fresno. For more information, call 559-638-6911 or email westcoast@mcc.org. The 2016 sale is set for April 1-2 at FPU.

Conference connects Mennonite writers east and west

Mon, 06 Apr 2015 18:23:05 +0000

The first U.S. West Coast edition of the Mennonite/s Writing Conference--"Mennonite/s Writing VII: Movement, Transformation, and Place" took place on the main FPU campus March 12-15.

By Kristian House

Organizers expressed happiness with the conference and the attendance of 215 people from across the U.S. and Canada. “Attendance was a concern because we are way out here on the West Coast and the conference is traditionally on the East Coast, so we were very happy with the numbers we got,” said Fran Martens Friesen, M.A., assistant professor of humanities.

An inter-Mennonite event, this conference was sponsored by the Marpeck Fund, California Mennonite Historical Society, Jean and Louis Janzen Visiting Writers Series, Fresno Pacific University, FPU Council of Senior Professionals and Hesston College.

The keynote presenters were poet Peter Everwine and author Mas Masumoto. Everwine’s most recent books are From the Meadow: Selected and New Poems and Listening Long and Late. Some of Masumoto’s works include “Letters to the Valley”and “Epitaph for a Peach.” “Peter Everwine did a superb job in drawing in the audience. And Mas Masumoto really engaged the audience and particularly memorable was his analysis of the selfie, where he discussed how we create story and put ourselves into the story,” Martens Friesen said.

One of the most prominent features of the conference were the writing workshops. Since the inaugural conference in 1990 this conference was the first to place significant emphasis on workshops. “They often don’t have much in line of the workshops, actually getting hands on teaching about writing. The workshops were a piece we added in and they were heavily attended,” said organizer Hope Nisly, M.L.S., acquisitions librarian for Hiebert Library. Each workshop focused on a particular topic. For example, the poetry workshop, led by Jean Janzen, whose most recent book is What the Body Knows, and Jesse Nathan, Ph.D., taught people how to better their work by studying the styles of other poets.

Another powerful component of this conference was the first Lesbian Gay Transgender Bisexual (LGTB) fiction panel. Same-sex and similar issues are controversial among U.S. and Canadian Mennonites. “The comments were that it felt like a historic moment and event, because they don’t always feel welcome in a Mennonite context. It is about coming together and understanding the lived experiences of others. People telling their real-life lived stories to help us better understand who we are,” Nisly said.

Other sessions included “Theology and Place,” “Feminist Interpretations” and “Writing as Healing.” Each session was run by a moderator and featured several presenters with experience in the topic.

The overarching significance of the conference was to connect the West Coast writers to the larger group of Mennonite writers: “We wanted to introduce ourselves more fully to the larger Mennonite body across the U.S. and Canada. And we wanted to introduce local people to the richness of Mennonite writing and literary critique. There is a rich of body of literature coming out of the Mennonite community,” Fran Martens Friesen explained.

“Part of how we wanted to show ourselves and who we are is we have Kevin Enns-Rempel do a presentation on California Mennonites, to show who we are, our diversity, what this particular kind of Mennonite looked like,” she added. Director of the Hiebert Library, Enns-Rempel, M.A., is a historian and former archivist.

Van Slyke edits book on religion and evolutionary adaptations

Wayne.Steffen — Thu, 02 Apr 2015 17:32:30 +0000

James Van Slyke, Ph.D., assistant professor of philosophy, contributed an essay and is an editor of "The Attraction of Religion," in which leading scholars in evolutionary psychology, anthropology, and religious studies explore how religion may be related to evolutionary adaptations. This first book-length study of its kind features international contributors. More at: bloomsbury.com/us/the-attraction-of-religion-9781472534620/#sthash.1LFM1pn4.dpuf

Speaker urges Christians to spread the Gospel, not religion

Wayne.Steffen — Wed, 25 Mar 2015 18:54:35 +0000

Today’s evangelicals can still learn from the original manual for spreading the Gospel, according to pastor and author Bruxy Cavey.

“Evangelism and the Missional Church: Examples from Acts” was the title of Cavey’s talk during a breakfast March 11, 2015, at Fresno Pacific Biblical Seminary, part of Fresno Pacific University. Author of the best-selling End of Religion, Cavey is the teaching pastor of The Meeting House—one of Canada’s largest congregations and “A Church for People who Aren’t into Church.”

Some 65 Valley pastors, lay leaders and seminary students attended the breakfast, which began at 8:30 a.m. in BC Lounge on the main FPU campus. About 13 of the students involved were taking Cavey’s week-long seminary class: “Evangelism and Missional Church.” Terry Brensinger, Ph.D., university vice president and seminary dean, invited Cavey.

The Apostle Paul emphasized a gentle and respectful approach to evangelizing and the simple themes of Jesus, resurrection, grace and the kingdom, Cavey said. Christians should remove all obstacles and roadblocks that keep people from hearing the good news that “God has come to us through Christ to show his love, save from sin, share his life and shut down religion,” he added.

Hell is not the motivator in Acts, neither is conservatism or liberalism. “You do not get bonus points for being more conservative than God,” Cavey said. Instead, the focus is always on the truth of the message of Jesus. A gentle, self-controlled tone shows the character of Christ, and Christians are the body of Christ, manifesting Jesus to others as Jesus manifested God, he said.

A great time to go into teaching

Wayne.Steffen — Mon, 23 Mar 2015 20:33:09 +0000

Larry Metzler has a problem—and so does the state of California.

“I don’t have enough teacher candidates,” said Metzler at the Fresno Pacific University Teacher Education Job Fair March 19, 2015. Metzler was among the School of Education faculty and staff welcoming representatives from a record number of area school districts—more than 50, plus the state prison school system and an international school—cramming the Special Events Center for the annual event.

Colorful banners advertising districts throughout the Central Valley stood above rows of folding tables and chairs where school administrators and teachers interviewed 125 FPU candidates. And there was more than just talk. “They’re handing out contracts,” Metzler said.

One of those offers went to Erin Carlson, a Clovis resident who completed her B.A. and teacher’s credential at FPU. But with another interview scheduled, she wanted to keep her options open. “I’ll make a decision today,” said Carlson, who plans to teach in grades K-3. “The job fair has given me the opportunity to interview with districts I wouldn’t have known about otherwise.”

Population growth, regulations lowering class size and Baby Boom-generation retirements are fueling high demand for teachers, a trend that is not expected to end soon. “We’re going to have a shortage of teachers for a few more years for sure,” Metzler said. Educators in math, science, special education and language arts are most in demand, but some districts were filling vacancies in social studies, art and throughout the elementary grades.

Kevin Wagner, interim assistant superintendent of human resources for the Central Unified School District, was one of those administrators with contracts in hand. “It’s a very competitive job market right now,” he said.

Top candidates show a passion for teaching and a love kids. “Also, somebody who’s been well-trained, and Fresno Pacific does a great job of that,” Wagner said. “We have many teachers in Central Unified that are from Fresno Pacific and they are outstanding young people.”

Districts are going to great lengths just to get candidates’ attention. “I have a district that’s asking if they can provide transportation and monetary incentives in order to get student teachers,” said David Jones, another School of Education faculty. “They hope the student teachers will stay with the district after they graduate.”

Even before the job fair, school officials had been calling the School of Education for weeks, looking for leads on good candidates. Some districts even hosted their own job fairs. “That’s a whole new concept,” Metzler said.

Student organizes peacemaking program at Fresno Art Museum

Wayne.Steffen — Mon, 23 Mar 2015 18:06:29 +0000

The Israeli-Palestinian conflict and its impact on the world will be the subject of a program organized by a Fresno Pacific University student.

“Four Perspectives on Conflict, Forgiveness and Art” will feature presentations by FPU faculty and students beginning at 2:00 p.m. Sunday, March 29, 2015, in the Fresno Art Museum’s Bonner Auditorium, 2233 N. Fresno. St. The event was created by the museum and Donna Howard, FPU graduate student in peacemaking and conflict studies.

Speakers and topics include:

· Brett Kincaid, Ph.D., associate professor of political science, on recent politics in the Israeli/Palestinian conflict

· Larry Dunn, Ph.D., associate professor of peacemaking and conflict studies, onforgiveness and peacemaking from a justice perspective

· Alexa Fox and Caroline Stevenson, on a Millennial perspective on peace and forgiveness as observed through travels to Israel, Vietnam and India. Fox is an undergraduate studying history and international affairs. Stevenson is a political science major.

· Donna Howard, on using art to promote peacemaking between Israelis and Palestinians and the world. The paralegal and court clerk for the Picayune Rancheria of the Chukchansi Indians, Howard is completing her master’s degree in peacemaking and conflict studies. She has spent time in Israel.

Immediately following the talks, Dunn will be available to sign his book, Discovering Forgiveness: Pathways through Injury, Apology, and Healing.

Admission is free to Fresno Art Museum members, $10 for non-members.For more information, contact education@fresnoartmuseum.orgor call 559-441-4221, ext. 101.

Report on successful reaccreditation visit highlights FPU board meeting

Wayne.Steffen — Fri, 20 Mar 2015 21:21:29 +0000

Ensuring the academic and financial security of Fresno Pacific University was high on the agenda during meeting of the board of trustees February 27-28, 2015.

Reaccreditation report

The last week of February was an eventful one at FPU, as board meetings began the afternoon following the departure of the visiting team of the Senior College and University Commission of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). The team was in Fresno February 24-27 as part of the university’s continuing reaccreditation process. FPU has been accredited since 1965.

Made up of faculty and administrators from other WASC-member colleges and universities, the visiting team met with administrators, faculty, staff and students to produce an educational effectiveness report. The report was sent to the WASC Commission, which will notify the FPU of the final results in July.

The report was good, said Stephen Varvis, Ph.D., provost and senior vice president, who led the campus committee that prepared for the visit. Team members commended the university for progress toward establishing a “culture of assessment” (reviewing data on student learning and using that data to improve teaching); efforts to stabilize the budget; the work of the Information Technology Office and Center for Online Learning to both connect students and faculty at all university sites and develop online teaching; and the awareness by faculty, staff and administration of the needs FPU has going forward.

The team made recommendations regarding the developing a comprehensive diversity plan, completing the strategic plan now in progress, improving financial processes and fundraising, increasing the role of faculty and staff in decision making and developing communication and feedback processes.

“There were no surprises, again a good sign that we know what we have to do,” Varvis said. Accreditation is the method by which FPU gets stronger, and the goal is always student learning. “We were commended for our work in this foundational and most important effort of any university,” he added.

Regular business

In regular business, the board approved the budget for the financial year 2015-2016, which begins May 1, 2015. The budgeted revenue of $55,648,000 is almost $2 million higher than the $53,733,000 set for 2014-2015. The increase will be used to develop a surplus to enhance financial stability and improve operations.

Deborah Palmer and Juan Martínez were added to the board. Palmer began her term in February 2015 and Martinez will join the board in June 2015.

Martínez, Th.M., Ph.D., is vice provost and professor of Hispanic studies and pastoral leadership in the School of Theology at Fuller Theological Seminary. His degrees include an M.Div. from Mennonite Brethren Biblical Seminary, now Fresno Pacific Biblical Seminary.

Since joining Fuller in 2001, Martínez has also served as associate provost for diversity and international programs and as director of the Center for the Study of Hispanic Church and Community. Current research includes the history of Latino Protestantism, Latino Protestant identity, ministry in Latino Protestant churches and Latino and Latin American Anabaptists. A Mennonite Brethren pastor, Martínez has served as rector at the Latin American Anabaptist Seminary in Guatemala City, and as director of Hispanic Ministries for the Pacific District Conference of the Mennonite Brethren Churches.

Recent books include Churches, Cultures and Leadership (with Mark Lau Branson), Los Protestantes: Latino Protestantism in the United States, Los Evangélicos: Portraits of Latino Protestantism in the United States (coedited with Lindy Scott), Walk with the People: Latino Ministry in the United States/Caminando entre el pueblo: Ministerio latino en los Estados Unidos and Vivir y servir en el exilio: Lecturas teológicas de la experiencia latina en los Estados Unidos (coedited with Jorge Maldonado).

Palmer is customer experience leader and senior vice president for southwest community banking at Wells Fargo & Company. Taking on her current role in 2013, she is based in Houston, TX, where she advocates for service excellence, influencing leaders and coaching team members in delivering world class service to customers.

With 17 years’ experience in the financial services industry, Palmer began her career with Wells Fargo in 1988 as a personal banker, returning in 2001 as a commercial loan officer, relationship manager and project manager for business banking. In 2008 she joined community banking as a project manager, supporting the Northern and Central California region with various strategic initiatives such as volunteerism, the customer experience, household acquisition and retention and small business.

Palmer earned her bachelor’s degree in social work and her master’s degree in leadership and organizational studies from FPU. She enjoys serving on various boards and foundations, including an earlier stint on the FPU board from 2009-2013.

In other action, the board approved:

· Promoting Donna Callahan, M.S.W., to associate professor of social work; Karen Crozier, Ph.D., to associate professor of assistant professor of practical theology and director of faculty development—diversity (peace and justice); Robin Perry, M.A., to assistant professor of education; and Laura Schmidt Roberts, Ph.D., to professor of biblical and religious studies.

· Sabbaticals for Hope Nisly, M.L.S., acquisitions librarian, and Quentin Kinnison, Ph.D., associate professor of Christian ministry.