Ann Graber Hershberger, an emeritus professor of nursing at 91短视频, has been named executive director of Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) U.S. She begins her new role in October 2020.

Current executive director J. Ron Byler will retire. The shift reflects a leadership plan determined in 2019 and was affirmed by the organization鈥檚 board of directors in their June 20 meeting, according to an MCC US release.

Hershberger began as associate executive director following an open hire process in 2019. This interim staff position was established to respond to heightened activity and long-range planning surrounding MCC鈥檚 centennial year in 2020.

 She had served on MCC boards since 1996, including chairing the MCC East Coast board and later the MCC U.S. board.

Hershberger is anticipated to lead MCC U.S. as executive director through 2022.

Byler has served as executive director since July 2010. Byler and Hershberger now oversee all MCC U.S. programs and operations and, with Canadian counterparts, all MCC international work. They also lead the network of MCC regional office executive directors and work closely with the supporting denominations of MCC U.S. and with associations of nonprofit organizations.

MCC U.S. Board chair Gwen White of Philadelphia expressed the board鈥檚 appreciation to Byler: 鈥淎s we prepare to say farewell to Ron later this year, we know we are sending him off into new adventures with deep gratitude for his innovative leadership based in his vigorous spirituality.

鈥淎t an earlier time of transition, Ron in his executive director role moved MCC forward and refocused our connections with the Anabaptist church worldwide. Through building warm relationships with denominational leaders, staff, partners and supporters, Ron has set MCC on a course for increasing the work of God鈥檚 kingdom.鈥�

Byler lives in Goshen, Indiana, and is a member of Eighth Street Mennonite Church.

White expressed the board鈥檚 鈥渄elight鈥� with Hershberger鈥檚 two-year appointment, noting, 鈥淎nn has served MCC in multiple roles with grace, intelligence and a deep and compassionate Christian faith.鈥� Hershberger lives in Harrisonburg, Virginia, and is a member of Mount Clinton Mennonite Church, where her husband Jim is pastor.

MCC works in partnership with local churches and organizations in about 50 countries in the areas of relief, development and peacebuilding. Commemoration of its centennial in 2020 has unfolded in the context of the profound impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and the pain and promise of turmoil arising from racial injustice in the U.S.

Within the nursing department, Hershberger chaired both the undergraduate (interim) and graduate programs, developed and updated the foundational 鈥淪acred Covenant鈥� model of nursing, led an enrollment expansion in 2004, and proposed two new degree programs 鈥� the accelerated second degree and the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree 鈥� that would position 91短视频 as a top regional provider of nursing education.

Hershberger鈥檚 nursing department colleagues, nursing department chair Melody Cash and MSN program director Don Tyson, recognize her as both a mentor and a consummate professional, devoted to advocating for the most vulnerable, to seeking challenging and transformative experiences for 91短视频 nursing students, and for elevating the departmental discourse around public health issues and challenges, among many other contributions.

Tyson鈥檚 office was located just across the hall from Hershberger鈥檚 for the last 20 years: 鈥淚t has been a blessing and treat as we have laughed, cried, disagreed, affirmed each other, consoled, and problem solved in so many ways.鈥�

Cash has appreciated her 鈥渨ise discernment and support 鈥 listening ear when I needed it …advice that came from years of experience and a place of compassion and caring.鈥�

Hershberger鈥檚 impact on the entire university has been no less substantial. She moved through the academic ranks to full professor in 2002 and in addition to teaching and leadership responsibilities within the nursing department, was tapped for leadership roles as core curriculum coordinator, director of the Humanitarian Action Leadership program, and finally, her current role as director of the cross-cultural program.

Additionally, Hershberger contributed to several innovative initiatives, each of which have shaped the university鈥檚 core niche as a unique, Anabaptist-rooted liberal arts institution. She helped to launch the cross-cultural program, a core curricular requirement for all undergraduates; chaired the faculty committee to launch the graduate Conflict Transformation Program, now the Center for Justice and Peacebuilding; and provided leadership to several undergraduate general education revisions.

鈥�Ann has made a lasting impact and we are deeply grateful for her deep commitment to 91短视频 over nearly four decades,鈥� said Undergraduate Dean Deirdre Longacher Smeltzer. 鈥淪he has been a beloved professor and mentor to numerous students, both in the classroom and as leader of nine cross-cultural study semesters, and also to her many colleagues. Her wise leadership and her ability to gracefully balance completion of tasks with nurturing of relationships have afforded her numerous opportunities to serve off-campus as well, most notably including prominent roles with Mennonite Central Committee.鈥�

To Mennonite Central Committee

It is to MCC that Hershberger will devote the next few years. She recently accepted the newly created position of interim associate director, and will help Executive Director J. Ron Byler lead the organization during MCC鈥檚 centennial activities 听over the next 2-3 years.

Hershberger has served on MCC boards since 1996, including 10 years from 2009-19 as board chair of MCC US. 听She served with her husband Jim as MCC representative in Nicaragua from 1985-90 and again in 1999-2000. Her first service with the organization was in 1983 in El Salvador.

The interim leadership role with MCC was 鈥渁n unexpected, but clear calling,鈥� 听Hershberger said. 鈥淭he interdenominational relationships I鈥檝e built over the years through working with MCC will help me work within the organization as it adapts to important challenges. I am grateful that 91短视频 has been my occupational home and the focus of my service to God and the church for many years, and I hope to continue the relationship after the interim position concludes.鈥�

Appreciations

As a colleague, Hershberger contributed to 91短视频鈥檚 intellectual community with 鈥減erceptive comments and questions during meetings as well as over meals,鈥� said Professor Marti Eads, of the 91短视频 Language and Literature Department. 鈥淚 treasure the challenging example she provides of living with integrity, and how she demonstrates measures of kindness, humility and cheerfulness when devoting herself to difficult tasks, such as a campus-wide curriculum revision process. I never had Ann as a teacher, but I imagine her to function as a teacher in the same way that she functions as a friend: encouraging others to do our very best because she believes we can and is waiting in excitement to watch us bloom.鈥�

Sue Cockley, dean of the graduate school and seminary, shared similar sentiments about Hershberger鈥檚 versatile capabilities. 鈥淎nn is one of those very rare people who can care intensely about individual students in her class and, at the same time, think structurally about the well-being of the entire university. She is at once an inspirational idealist and a very practical realist.鈥� 听

Current and former students appreciated Hershberger鈥檚 role modeling and mentorship, pointing out that her words and actions has always shown genuine care, authenticity and intentionality. 听

Maria Yoder, a senior biology major, travelled to Guatemala and Colombia with Hershberger as a sophomore. Yoder and Hershberger were co-investigators on a diabetes research project in Guatemala and travelled together to present at the fall 2018 American Public Health Association national conference.

鈥淲ithout the experience, motivation, and guidance from Ann, I never would have thought I was capable of carrying out the research with Concern America. And that’s the beautiful thing about Ann 鈥� she is a natural teacher because she cares about the end product, not her own personal glory. She has hopes for this world that extend well beyond her lifetime and knows that teaching a younger generation is the best way to create a lasting impact.

鈥淪he has given me great counsel not only in regards to academics, but life in general,鈥� said nursing student Asenie Daniel, who was also on the spring 2017 cross-cultural. 鈥淚 am so thankful to have such an incredibly intuitive and receptive person in my life.鈥�

Nursing student Esther Ghale recalls how Hershberger helped her through a challenging situation on that same cross-cultural, and continued her support back to campus. 鈥淎nn came and gave me a big bear hug, exactly what I needed at that time. She didn鈥檛 say anything, she didn鈥檛 ask questions, she just embraced us.鈥�

Tessa Gerberich Hershberger 鈥�13 [no relation], 听a nurse care coordinator for the women’s health and prenatal care program at Harrisonburg Community Health Center, still speaks with her former undergraduate advisor frequently. She says Hershberger has had a lasting influence on her own practice of nursing, from nursing clinicals at 91短视频 to her postgraduate Serving And Learning Together (SALT) term in an HIV/AIDS clinic in Nigeria and her transition back into the U.S. health care system.

One of Ann Hershberger鈥檚 strengths, Tessa Hershberger said, is her strong commitment to interacting with grace and respect for all, whether patients, students, friends and colleagues. 鈥淢ore than doing for someone, nurses walk with and share information for people to cultivate their own strengths and independence, rather than creating dependency, and Ann exemplifies this, not just in her nursing, but in her teaching and mentoring roles as well. She holds our questions, thoughts and experiences with grace; asks good, thoughtful questions; and encourages us and reminds us of the strength within ourselves.鈥�

Ann Hershberger will be recognized at a reception on campus in late April. Any appreciations offered in the comment box below will be passed along to her.

A political science major and revised minor and a global studies major and minor will be offered beginning this fall.

鈥淭hese new majors reflect an expanding awareness that community, which 91短视频 has long emphasized, also happens at national and global levels,鈥� said Provost Fred Kniss. 鈥淲ith these new majors, students will develop knowledge and skills that will help them effect positive change in diverse settings.鈥� 听

Political science

The political science major will train students to apply their research and analytical skills to current political affairs and offer students real-world learning through internships. It will prepare students to pursue further studies and careers in fields such as law and public policy.

鈥淭his major will closely align with 91短视频鈥檚 core mission,鈥� said Professor Mark Metzler Sawin. 鈥淲hile many universities offer political studies, our program will be distinctive in its embodiment of our university鈥檚 values.鈥�

Students will learn to think critically and analytically about power, authority and legitimacy, examining 鈥渢he traditional role of relevant political actors, institutions, and mechanisms through a critical lens,鈥� said Professor Ji Eun Kim. In addition to developing theoretical and moral ways of understanding political events, they will gain critical oral and writing skills for 鈥渟peaking and understanding the language of these key actors鈥� based on rigorous reasoning and dignity and respect for others.

Its interdisciplinary approach and diverse curriculum includes course topics such as human rights and dignity, political reconciliation, international relations, American politics, and peace and security in East Asia.

The major also requires a term at the Washington Community Scholars鈥� Center in Washington DC, where internships offer real-world extensions to classroom learning and vocational experience in policy, politics, advocacy and law. WCSC internship sites in these fields include working on Capitol Hill with the Catholic social justice lobby NETWORK or Mennonite Central Committee鈥檚 Washington Office;听and working to increase civic exchange political dialogue with the Faith and Politics Institute. [Learn more about internship sites in these fields.]

Global studies

The global studies major is fitting for a university that for 35 years has required students to have cross-cultural experience. In the program, students will identify a regional and language focus to prepare them for cross-cultural engagement, in addition to further study and careers in fields such as international development, human resources, intelligence and research analysis, and education in public and private sectors.

鈥�91短视频鈥檚 identity and history positions us to create and offer a global studies program to undergraduate students in a unique way,鈥� said Professor Tim Seidel, who helped develop the major with vice president and undergraduate academic dean Deirdre L. Smeltzer, cross-cultural program director Ann Hershberger, and professors Adriana Rojas, Jim Leaman and Ji Eun Kim. 鈥淕raduates will be equipped with solid knowledge and relevant skills 鈥� and be equipped for postgraduate study and for professional opportunities including working in governments, nongovernmental organizations, and the private sector.鈥�

With three areas of concentration 鈥� sustainability, justice and peacebuilding, and societies and cultures 鈥� the major will focus on intercultural communication and the role of faith in global studies while exploring global political and economic actors beyond the state.

The curriculum will include course topics such as globalization and justice, biblical theologies of peace and justice, and cultural anthropology. Region-focused studies may include, for example, history and culture of Africa, Latin America, the Middle East and Asia.

The major was developed with funding from a United States Department of Education Undergraduate International Studies and Foreign Languages grant.

John Lowe, a 1981 nursing alumnus of 91短视频 and Florida State University professor, opened each of his six talks on campus in mid-February with a traditional and extensive Cherokee greeting that honored his ancestors and called his listeners into awareness of hundreds of years of his people鈥檚 history.

The language was one Lowe didn鈥檛 use when he arrived from the Delmarva region to study nursing on campus from 1978-81, for the fear of calling attention to cultural and traditional ceremonial practices that had only recently been legalized by the U.S government.

鈥淭hat was our loss then, but we are grateful for your work and your time and your willingness to share your culture and history with us for these three days,鈥� said Professor Ann Hershberger, who joined the faculty during Lowe鈥檚 senior year.

She and graduate nursing program director Don Tyson were instrumental in extending the invitation to Lowe, the nursing program鈥檚 sole alumnus selected for the prestigious professional honor of Fellow in the American Academy of Nursing. In 2016, Lowe established and became the director of FSU鈥檚 .

At 91短视频, Lowe gave a Suter Science Seminar and a chapel talk, as well as addressing pre-professional health sciences and nursing majors; graduate students in the biomedicine, programs; and the Peace Fellowship. Lowe spoke of his own life and professional experiences, as well as providing a historic and cultural context for the educational, health and socioeconomic disparities of Native Americans.

‘The past is present’

In acknowledging his ancestors of Cherokee, Creek, and Lenape descent, Lowe calls on influences very much alive and present in his work today.

鈥淚n order to understand who we are today and why we are today and what is happening today, you must understand our history,鈥� Lowe said, outlining the precipitous decline in the Native American population and the intensive culture-denying efforts through the centuries by the U.S. Government. 鈥淚 am a genocide survivor. If you look at the United Nations鈥� definition of genocide, you鈥檒l see that is exactly what has been created for my people鈥� denying the practice and affirmation of one鈥檚 culture, that is our history.鈥�

When he was 10 years old, a 32-year-old cousin, recently returned from the Vietnam War, died of causes related to alcoholism. Even at that young age, Lowe recognized powerful forces were at work.

鈥淢y grandmother said, 鈥業t got another one of us,鈥� and that stuck with me. Because of that grief and watching what happened, I saw devastation and abuse and what the 鈥榠t鈥� did. 鈥業t鈥� became part of my purpose. The 鈥榠t鈥� never left me,鈥� Lowe told an audience of nursing students.

Working globally for health equity

In the years since that childhood loss, Lowe has become a globally renowned expert on substance abuse among indigenous peoples while earning a master鈥檚 degree in nursing at Oral Roberts University and a PhD from the University of Miami. Among his many honors are the 2016 Luther Christman Award from the American Nurses Association, for exceptional male nurses, and several top awards for research and teaching from the Florida Nurses Association, American Health Council, American Academy of Nursing, the Association for Medical Education and Research in Substance Abuse, and the U.S. Department of Justice, among others.

Lowe is the first director of FSU鈥檚 Center for Indigenous Nursing Research for Health Equity,the only one of its kind worldwide. At a 2017 inaugural summit, he welcomed more than 100 indigenous nursing researchers and community leaders from Australia, Canada, Panama and Peru, as well as Native Americans, Alaskan Natives and Native Hawaiians.

After many years of development, monitoring and evaluation, Lowe earned the US Department of Justice endorsement of his intervention programs for the well-being of Native American youth. The programs utilize traditional talking circle formats and culturally-based models to reduce substance abuse and other high-risk behaviors and have received funding support from agencies such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Substance Abuse Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA).

鈥淲e work with youth to pass on some of the values that have sustained us through sacred talking circles, which is our traditional way of coming together,鈥� he said. 鈥淲hen you talk to a 10-year-old, a little one, and you ask them, 鈥楧id you know you are a sacred being?鈥� You begin to see lightness begin to overcome darkness because of this new way of thinking about themselves. 听I know that, because in my existence, I was always being told you are not. So we tell the children that you have many gifts and your people had many gifts and you come from a line of people who have a connection with Creator and everything you do and everything you touch is sacred because it was created by a sacred Spirit. Being able to impart that to our youth is so important.鈥�

Lowe continues to develop intervention models that integrate traditional practices with technology so that indigenous youth in different areas of the United States and even in other countries can engage in cross-cultural sharing sessions. 听

Students moved by history, life experiences

Hershberger observed that many of the nursing students 鈥� approximately 90 from all program levels were invited to a morning seminar with Lowe 鈥� were shocked to learn more about the 鈥渃urrent realities of health disparities for Native Americans.鈥� This was especially noteworthy information coming from Lowe, who shared that his high school guidance counselor told him 鈥減eople from where you are from don鈥檛 go to college.鈥� He is, she added, one of 23 Native American nurses in the United States to have earned a doctorate degree.

Educational, economic and health disparities go 鈥渉and-in-hand鈥� with dispossession of lives, land and culture, Lowe said.

The Native American population has the highest rate of diabetes, chronic liver disease and cirrhosis (due to alcoholism), and twice the rate of HIV infection compared to white population groups in the United States. There are tribes with a life expectancy of 52 years of age. Obesity rates among adolescents and adults are also high, with adolescents 30 percent more likely to be obese than white adolescents and adults 50 percent more likely to be obese than white adults. (To learn more, .)

Student Grace Burkhart, in the audience at the Peace Fellowship event, was moved by Lowe鈥檚 analysis of how 鈥済enerational trauma correlates with the health issues prevalent in many Native American communities today,鈥� she said. 鈥淒r. Lowe’s work is an attempt to interrupt those cycles of trauma in a way that can prevent the physical manifestations in young Native American people. Using culturally relevant practices, like talking circles, helps to keep young people connected to their ancestors and to each other.鈥�

Many students were moved by Lowe鈥檚 sharing, both of historic injustices and those he has personally experienced. 鈥淥ne student was awestruck by how Native Americans have been treated historically, but also how John exudes grace in telling the story and being able to move forward,鈥� Tyson said.

鈥淛ohn has a way of sharing personal and community experiences of racism and injustice that are straightforward and shared not to shame but to inform and ignite action,鈥� said Hershberger. 鈥淗is presence here is a true gift, and we鈥檙e grateful he has made the time among other requests for involvement in NIH review boards, as a project consultant and his many research endeavors.鈥�

What has been your post-91短视频 studies and/or career path?

After finishing my English degree at 91短视频, I entered an English PhD program at Temple University and studied early modern English literature while teaching both literature and writing courses. During my graduate program, I was a member of the first cohort of the Lilly Graduate Fellows Program, a selective three-year program that provides mentorship, support and colloquia for graduate students interested in the intersection of faith and scholarship. After completing my PhD, I began teaching at Hesston College. 听

How did your academic studies and professors at 91短视频 prepare and inspire you for your graduate studies and/or current work?

Being able to have a faculty member as my advisor at 91短视频 helped me to select coursework that interested me and which has contributed to my scholarship in unusual ways. I might not have taken as much interest in religion鈥檚 role in the early modern world without my introduction to theology course. I also had the flexibility to take senior English seminars in both French postmodern literature and transatlantic modernism, and these courses helped to prepare me for graduate school and to develop my voice as a literary scholar.

The mentorship that I received as a student, both formally through the honors program and informally within the language arts department, was crucial to my decision to pursue graduate study. I developed important intellectual virtues of critical thinking and reflection with my honors cohort, and I was honored to share an informal weekly lunch with Jay B. Landis in my last years at 91短视频. I鈥檓 immensely grateful for the way that my professors invested in me as a person and future teacher-scholar.

How did your extra-curricular activities at 91短视频 prepare and inspire you for your graduate studies and/or current work?

One of the ways that 91短视频 helped to make my education affordable was through a campus job. My work in the library and at the reference desk in particular fostered the skills I needed to be a better researcher and gave me a clearer understanding of what an academic library can do for students and the campus community.

What about your experience at 91短视频 has made you distinctive when applying to graduate school or jobs?

Over the years, the positive experiences I had as an 91短视频 student have been an excellent resource for my own teaching practice. When I began teaching as a graduate student, I often found myself returning to the kinds of discussion-focused and student-centered teaching techniques that I saw modeled during my time as an 91短视频 undergraduate. This repository of ideas helped me to be more comfortable and successful in my transition from college student to graduate instructor and finally to college professor.

Similarly, the kind of critical thinking and interdisciplinary openness that my professors modeled helped to prepare me for the kind of inquiry and research that I would go on to do in graduate school. Because 91短视频 is a member of the Lilly Fellows Program Network, my advisor 鈥� Professor Marti Eads 鈥� helped me to apply for a fellowship program that provided financial support and mentorship that helped me to navigate graduate school more effectively.

What attracted you to attend 91短视频 as an undergraduate?

When I was looking for colleges, I was interested in a place where I could work closely with my professors in small classes and where I could explore a variety of different academic areas as an undergraduate. The 91短视频 honors program was particularly exciting to me because of the way it challenged me to grow as a student and as a person.

What are some favorite memories of your time at 91短视频?

One of my highlights was studying in Guatemala and Nicaragua as my cross-cultural semester. This kind of learning was completely different from the setting and classes that I had taken before, and I know that what I gained through language and cultural study has continued to shape my perspective as a teacher/scholar. Our leaders, Ann and Jim Hershberger, were outstanding academic, personal and spiritual guides for our whole group. 听

Since 1994, the ethics model has guided and inspired faculty, students and alumni of 91短视频鈥檚 nursing program. In coming months, Professor Ann Hershberger, who developed the model with the input of other faculty, will lead research with the goal of updating the signature document.

91短视频’s Sacred Covenant Model outlines nursing approaches to caring through empowerment, partnership, presence, justice, service, agape love, advocacy, reconciliation and grace. It also articulates that nurses, in their work with persons, families, communities and systems, fill roles including collaborator, leader, manager, researcher practitioner and teacher.

鈥淚t is clear that rooting students in this unique, values-based approach has impacted the lives of our students and those they serve,鈥� Hershberger said. 鈥淯pdating these concepts to reflect our current social and cultural context will boost its continued integral relevance.鈥�

To gain insight into modernizing the document鈥檚 language, Hershberger will survey and interview program graduates and conduct a literature review to assess the use of similar concepts across the field of nursing.

Hershberger will also expand the covenant鈥檚 theological grounding in collaboration with Eastern Mennonite Seminary dean Nancy Heisey, whose writings on Micah 6:8 heavily influenced the original.

In the 1990s, Hershberger and other nursing faculty members began writing essays exploring the unique approaches that Anabaptists bring to nursing. Later, then professor and department chair Arlene Wiens led the gathering of the approaches under the 鈥淪acred Covenant鈥� concept based on writings by Catholic University Professor Mary Elizabeth O鈥橞rien, including her book A Sacred Covenant: The Spiritual Ministry of Nursing (Jones & Bartlett Learning, 2008).

鈥淏ecause of our faith tradition, we view an individual鈥檚 story as holy ground and, as nurses, we intersect with them in sacred space,鈥� Hershberger said. 鈥淲e are privileged to be allowed into the most intimate points of people鈥檚 lives when they are at their most vulnerable. We view the nurse-patient relationship as sacred because of the intimacy and spirituality of that connection.鈥�

Students in the undergraduate and master鈥檚 nursing programs explore the covenant and reflect on their clinical experiences through its lens. While undergraduate students who later return to 91短视频 for master鈥檚 level studies already resonate with the covenant, masters- and doctoral-level students exposed to it for the first time often find it significant and meaningful, Hershberger said.

鈥溾�楾his is why I went into nursing. I thought this didn鈥檛 exist anymore,鈥欌�� she has heard them say. 鈥淭he articulation of nursing as both faithful vocation and profession is something that they longed for.鈥�

The nursing program offers traditional, transfer and accelerated undergraduate and second-degree programs as well as MS in nursing and DNP programs. All programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

A straight talker with an evangelical flair that betrays his Southern Baptist roots, Posey shared some eye-opening strengths and weaknesses related to his own experience as a student at 91短视频, and urged the gathered community to answer the call to 鈥渕eet students where they are.鈥�

He ended with four practical questions related to faith formation 鈥� picture Posey saying 鈥淕o get 鈥榚m,鈥� as we all trot to the mound 鈥� that participants carried with them throughout the day鈥檚 panel sessions, presentations and worship.

Recognize and build on your strengths as related to faith formation. Evaluate and understand your weaknesses. Ask how you can more effectively merge your calling with your work. And finally, how can you better mentor young people to lives of faith?

91短视频鈥檚 faculty-staff conferences are community gatherings at the beginning and end of the academic year. This spring鈥檚 event focused on 鈥渇ostering faith among students but also among ourselves,鈥� said Professor Marti Eads, who chaired the planning committee with Campus Pastor Brian Martin Burkholder. 鈥淚 hope you leave the day fed and hungry for more.鈥�

Titled 鈥淛ourney Companions: Fostering Faith Formation at 91短视频,鈥� the theme enabled discussions and development of an objective in 91短视频鈥檚 strategic plan: to nurture spiritual growth and enhance formational engagement among faculty, staff and students.

鈥淯ndergraduate students in our faith mentoring survey a few years ago expressed eagerness to hear more from faculty and staff about their personal faith journeys and how they navigated doubt, challenge and opportunity,鈥� said Burkholder. 鈥淭his conference gives us a chance to hear from each other about how we鈥檙e doing that in our work on campus and how we might expand opportunities for fellowship and relationship-building into new places and spaces.鈥�

More from Coach Posey

At a time when 91短视频鈥檚 student population is more diverse than ever 鈥� and that diversity includes culture, religion, race, ethnicity and political beliefs 鈥� Posey pointed out that being open and hospitable to different perspectives is very much a part of faith formation. It was deep relationships with a small number of influential faculty and staff that aided his own spiritual and intellectual development, he said.

Posey talked about the challenges of coming to 91短视频 from Poquoson, a mostly white, upper middle-class community among the many military bases in the Hampton Roads area. A communications major, he said the first person he met outside of the baseball coaching staff was Professor Jerry Holsopple, an experience 鈥渨hich really should have counted as my cross-cultural,鈥� he joked.

鈥淓ven among the baseball team, I heard in those first few months perspectives that differed from mine, and that was a culture shock for me, away from home for the first time, away from my girlfriend, trying to figure out some of the things that come with being at 91短视频,鈥� he said.

What helped him become more comfortable and get through 鈥渁 rocky first couple of years鈥� was a tight relationship with head coach Jason Stuhlmiller (then a high school special education teacher and now area director for Fellowship of Christian Athletes) and connections with faculty members Holsopple and Deanna Durham 鈥� all mentors who got to know him 鈥渙n my level, on my playing field, in my arena.鈥�

Though he came primarily with an identity and purpose tied to his athletic experience, Posey said that changed over the years, and now he鈥檚 grateful that he chose to stay and 鈥渘ot miss out on experiences that have been really important to who I am today.鈥� There are plenty of students today, ones he coaches and others he knows, who have had a similar difficulty adjusting to the 91短视频 community.

鈥淲hether you agree with why that student is here at 91短视频 or not, you have four years to build a relationship with that person and talk to them about things you鈥檙e passionate about, whether it鈥檚 peacebuilding or social justice,鈥� he said.

One beauty of these opportunities is how they remind us of what matters: in the midst of a losing streak, Posey said a player reached out to him to talk about how God was calling him but he felt unworthy. 鈥淚 want to give my life over to Christ, but how do I reconcile that?鈥澨� he asked.

鈥淚t鈥檚 easy to get lost in our jobs and lost in what we鈥檙e doing and not remember why we鈥檙e here,鈥� Posey said. 鈥淏ut we have to keep that in perspective. I would venture to say that we鈥檙e all here at 91短视频 because we hope to impact young people in a way that contributes to the rest of their life.鈥�

Bringing imagination to course design

In his keynote address via Zoom, , professor of education and director of the Kuyers Institute for Christian Teaching and Learning at Calvin College, challenged faculty to have imagination about their course designs. He told the story of different workers on a construction site, one of whom said he was cutting a stone block and the other which said he was building a cathedral: 鈥淲hat do my students think is happening when they sit in my classroom? What is it they think they are doing?鈥� he asked, and, 鈥淲hat do we think we are teaching in our subject area? What does it contribute to the world? To the Kingdom of God?鈥�

He recounted a call from a former student excited at having lent a willing ear to a German-speaking train rider after remembering what Smith had taught in German class, that the purpose of learning a language is less to speak it than it is to listen.

Pedagogical norms, he said, are simply how things are done in any given era, according to prevailing social norms. These norms often separate course content matter from reality鈥檚 ambiguities that merit curiosity and practicable empathy.

鈥楨xamining assumptions鈥�

After the annual recognition luncheon, five break-out sessions were offered on a variety of topics, including workshops on spiritual practices for mentors, exploring spirituality types in mentoring.

Panel discussions offered insights into faith formation in various programs, including the Center for Justice and Peacebuilding and athletics.

Professor Ann Hershberger and interim director Don Clymer invited shared insights into making faith connections for and with students on travelling on 91短视频’s required cross-cultural trips.

鈥淲hen we are forced out of our routines, we have to rethink many things and examine our assumptions,鈥� Clymer said. That makes for many opportunities to plant seeds, Hershberger added.

Their own and session participants鈥� stories bore that out: the student whose host mother prayed for her hemoglobin deficiency, which then was resolved to a degree that without a blood transfusion is medically impossible; the group that found cohesion in protectively encircling a sick classmate who had become ill on a crowded street; the homesick and tired group that, by recounting how they had experienced the presence of God in the last three days, turned their 鈥渕umbling and grumbling to singing.鈥�

The group also gathered ideas for trip leaders to further prepare for and build on faith building experiences, cultivating groups in which students have starkly different faith understandings, and establishing shared resources and activities that have proven effective.

A final 45-minute gathering, hosted by Burkholder and Professor Johonna Turner, invited reflection and sharing.

Christopher Clymer Kurtz contributed to this article.

What follows is a tangible story of 91短视频鈥檚 global perspective: A current student connected through a faculty member to an alumna for a meaningful research experience.

Last year, as a sophomore on a semester cross-cultural to Guatemala, Yoder jumped at an invitation from leader and nursing professor Ann Hershberger to learn about an 91短视频 alumna鈥檚 ongoing work there with , an international organization that in part trains villagers to become their own health-care providers.

That invitation was 鈥渢he seed,鈥� Hershberger said, for the biology and psychology double major鈥檚 biology independent research project this year.

The alumna, Jeanette Nisly, had also traveled on cross-cultural to Guatemala 鈥� two decades ago. After graduating in 1996, she returned there to stay. She is married to an architect restaurant owner, homeschools their children, teaches online nursing classes for 91短视频, and volunteers with Concern America. Nisly lives and works in Pet茅n, the department of Guatemala that makes up one-third of the country鈥檚 area but less than five percent of its population. Read more about her work in this 2013 article.

As part of her graduate nursing studies through 91短视频, Nisly had already assessed the effectiveness, safety and affordability health promoter services in area clinics. But she wanted to take another look, this time specifically focusing on diabetes control, to establish baseline data for continued evaluation when she hopes to enter 91短视频鈥檚 new doctor of nursing practice program next year.

Yoder could aid in the design, collection and evaluation of that research.

Diabetes in Pet茅n

In what Nisly described as 鈥渁n amazing learning activity,鈥� she and Yoder visited clinics to explore variables impacting the treatment of diabetes at clinics and evaluate patient access to care and knowledge about their disease, information that will prove useful to Nisly in her future studies.

The duo was particularly interested in diabetes, a disease on the rapid rise in Pet茅n. One theory is that its spread is a direct result of infrastructure development outpacing of health education, Yoder said.

Improved transportation 鈥渉as its goods and evils,鈥� Yoder said. 鈥淚f someone鈥檚 having a health emergency and they need to get to somewhere quickly, it鈥檚 really helpful that transport is so much easier. But then in a weird way, it鈥檚 causing this chronic disease.鈥�

Better roads and transportation options mean increased access to the city 鈥� and increased consumption by rural residents of nontraditional foods such as sodas, chips and cookies. Knowledge about diabetes and its management is slower to arrive, leaving people vulnerable to the ill effects of processed, unhealthy foods.

鈥淗ealth education is just so crucial,鈥� Yoder said, 鈥渂ecause if people aren鈥檛 learning about what is diabetes and how to care for it at a young age, then it just doesn鈥檛 make quite as much sense when you鈥檙e older and trying to learn about it, when you already have the disease.鈥�

Takeaways

The spring break trip gave Yoder a taste of research methodology, and Nisly said that she performed 鈥渋n a very sensitive manner, continuously evaluating how her work could best support our work.鈥� It also provided Yoder a chance to observe 鈥渢he challenges that affect marginalized populations in a developing country,鈥� Nisly said 鈥� and gave her a glimpse of Concern America鈥檚 model of healthcare.

It鈥檚 鈥渁 functioning, effective health program built with community volunteers who have little formal education,鈥� Nisly said, one that is so different from the U.S. medical model that 鈥渋t is difficult to understand and appreciate without really seeing it first hand.鈥�

Yoder called it 鈥渞eally sustainable in practice,鈥� since as Guatemalan health promoters learn more 鈥� and teach others more 鈥� broader health know-how expands and spreads. More difficult care still relies on licensed physicians and hospitals, but the number of international health workers in Pet茅n has decreased, Yoder said, as local health promoters gain efficacy.

For example, Yoder learned of an international study exploring the effectiveness of different ways of administering a medicine in alleviating a common insect-caused skin irritation. The study started losing patients, though, because to access the test treatment, study subjects had to travel much more than was convenient.

And besides, health promoters already had a cure that worked for most patients: a hot-water bath.

The connector

Nursing professor Ann Hershberger 鈥� the group leader who introduced Yoder and Nisly 鈥� said that the student-alumna collaboration was an impactful opportunity for Yoder.

鈥淢aria is unique in that she is interested in a wide variety of issues,鈥� Hershberger said. 鈥淪he catches on quickly and is willing to work very hard.鈥�

But in the bigger picture, Hershberger said, 鈥渂eing in Guatemala expanded her language and her understanding of the broader social, cultural and historical issues that impact a situation like diabetes, and living with a host family in the city, then several days in a rural indigenous village, along with language and context study, opened her to really understanding more than what a lab test tells her.鈥�

Connections? You bet.

鈥淒o you know what an 91短视频 graduate should do and be when you are no longer on campus? Think of these things, of the people who invested in you because they believed in you. 鈥� Be a very good ambassador,鈥� he urged.

Though many of students present perhaps thought beyond impending finals to consider their future plans, the ceremony was the first time to put on their caps and gowns and the first inkling of the celebration to come. During the May 6 Commencement ceremony, each of the 33 will wear a special stole, some made of kente cloth but others of satin fabric symbolizing heritage, roots within one or various communities, or citizenship.

The formal presentation of these stoles was the reason for coming together with family, friends and 91短视频 community members Wednesday evening. The ceremony celebrates the accomplishments of graduating students of color as well as the history of black students’ and students of color achievements at the university, according to Multicultural Student Services Director Celeste Thomas, who started the first event three years ago.

See this event and more in 91短视频’s Centennial timeline chronicling diversity on campus.听

鈥淲e gather here to honor these students, some of whom are the first of their family to graduate from college, and to wish them well on their way forward,鈥� she said in her welcome. 鈥淔or those of you who our graduates have selected to place the kente cloth over their shoulders, it is a great honor.鈥�

Micah Shristi, co-director of international student services and advisor to the International Student Organization, and M. Esther Showalter, advisor to the Latino Student Alliance, also co-hosted the event.

Read 2017 and 2016 coverage of the event.听

Donning of the Kente participants

Eyman Alasbali is graduating with an MA in education. Her father Ghorm Alasbali and mother Abdiah Alshebri presented the stole. She plans to take additional classes for a second concentration and then return to help her community.

Genesis Arzu 听is earning a degree in digital media and听plans to work in a production studio as an audio engineer after graduation. Celeste Thomas presented her stole.

Natasha Bridge is earning a degree in kinesiology and exercise science. Carolyn Stauffer, professor of sociology, presented her with the stole. Natasha plans to move home and work and further her education within the next two years.

Jazmine Carter is earning a degree in business administration, and plans to attend graduate school in the spring. Andrew Miller, instructor of business, awarded her stole.

Kevin A. Clark is earning a degree in Spanish with a minor in digital communications. Ann Hershberger, professor of nursing, presented his stole.

Phoebe Coffie is earning a degree in biology. After graduation, she plans to take the MCAT and continue shadowing and volunteering, working towards medical school entrance. Micah Shristi presented her stole.

Kimberly Daley is graduating with a degree in nursing. Marcia Pusey, instructor of nursing, presented her stole. Her goal is to be debt-free within three years.

Drew Diaz is earning a degree in biology and hopes to go to medical school His mother Pam Diaz awarded the stole.

Fabiana Espinal has earned a degree in liberal arts with a concentration in psychology. Amanda Styer and Alex Bowdey presented the stole. She plans to continue to be involved in the community following an internship related to Title IX and restorative justice. She鈥檒l begin graduate school in fall 2019.

Denait Gebretsadik is graduating with a degree in history and a minor in Spanish. She was gifted her stole by Asmait Asgedom, and it was presented by Mark Sawin, professor of history.

Jerome Jones will graduate with a degree in psychology and plans to pursue a master鈥檚 degree in clinical psychology. Melody Pannell, professor of sociology, presented his stole.

Maleke Jones is graduating with a degree in psychology and a minor in pre-law. He will work for a local police department. Melody Pannell presented his stole.

Emmanuel Kampanga earned a degree in biology. He plans to take the MCAT and apply for medical schools in Europe. Micah Shristi presented his stole.

Keyri Lopez-Godoy is graduating with a degree in liberal arts and a PK-6 elementary education endorsement. She will teach in Harrisonburg City Schools. Mentor Louise Gallagher presented the stole.

Luisa Angel Mallard is earning a degree in communication. She hopes to eventually earn a master鈥檚 degree in restorative justice. Micah Shristi presented her stole.

Lania McKoy will graduate with a nursing degree and a psychology minor. Lamarr Wharwood presented her with the stole. She plans to celebrate this accomplishment, study for the nursing boards and then be the best nurse she can be.

Mandy Miller is earning a degree in social work. She wants to work for two years and then return for a master鈥檚 degree. Celeste Thomas awarded her stole.

Kennedy Okerere is earning a degree in business administration. He will return to his home state of Maryland to begin a new job.听Celeste Thomas awarded his stole.

Louisa Quaynor will graduate with a degree in nursing. She plans to work in a Richmond area hospital after graduation. Marcia Pusey, instructor of nursing, awarded her stole.

Alejandra Tejada Rivera is earning a degree in nursing. She plans to work at Sentara RMH in the orthopedic unit. David Diaz presented her stole.

Da鈥橨ahnea Robinson is earning a degree in psychology. Charisse Robinson presented her with the stole. Da鈥橨ahnea will continue her studies in the MA in Counseling program at 91短视频.

Chang Tan will graduate with an MA in biomedicine. He will work as a research coordinator while preparing medical school applications. Fellow graduate student听Thi Do Lovo presented his stole.

Delight Tigoe has earned a degree in accounting. Her stole was presented by Lana Miller, undergraduate campus pastor, and Andrew Miller, instructor of business.

Myneshia Walker is graduating with a degree in sociology and a minor in coaching. She plans to return to her hometown and begin working. Sandy Brownscombe, professor of physical education, presented her stole.

Adila Wahdat graduates with a degree in digital media. She will work in marketing for a jewelry company. Friend Asmait Asgedom gifted her stole and was also the presenter.

Aminata Wallet-Mohamed will graduate with a degree in sociology. Friend Asmait Asgedom gifted her stole and was also the presenter.

Alexa Weeks is earning a degree in liberal arts with licensure in elementary education. Lana Miller, undergraduate campus pastor, presented her stole. Alexa hopes to find a teaching job in the Harrisonburg area after graduation.

Brittany Williams is earning a degree in recreation, leadership and sport studies. She plans to stay in Harrisonburg and work. Celeste Thomas presented her stole.

Isaiah Harris-Winn is earning a degree in business administration. Carolyn Stauffer, professor of sociology, presented his stole. He hopes to continue his basketball career overseas.

Elizabeth Witmer is earning a degree in social work with minors in sociology and Spanish. Ann Hershberger, professor of nursing, presented her stole. She will complete her social work practicum this summer in Guatemala and then continue working as office coordinator in the Intensive English Program.

Ryan Yates is earning an MA in interdisciplinary studies and a graduate certificate in transformative leadership. He plans to move to Los Angeles, California, and 鈥渃reate opportunities that will live on well beyond my years.鈥� Deanna Durham, professor of social work, and Celeste Thomas presented him with his stole.

Brianna Zook is earning a degree in kinesiology and exercise science with minors in business and coaching. Kevin Griffin, head women鈥檚 basketball coach, presented her with the stole. She plans to attend graduate school.

]]> /now/news/2018/dianne-swann-wright-known-historical-research-monticello-remembered-contributions-emu/ /now/news/2018/dianne-swann-wright-known-historical-research-monticello-remembered-contributions-emu/#comments Fri, 26 Jan 2018 19:39:20 +0000 /now/news/?p=36659 Dianne Swann-Wright, former director of multicultural programs at 91短视频 and a leading historian of African American history, died Jan. 23, 2018.

At the time of her death, she was director of the Frederick Douglass-Isaac Myers Maritime Park in Baltimore, Maryland.

A wake will take place at Vaughn Greene Funeral Home, 4905 York Rd., Baltimore, Maryland, on听Monday, Jan. 29, from 4-8 p.m.

The funeral is at Bright Morning Star Church, RR 617, Dillwyn, Virginia, on Tuesday, Jan. 30 at noon.

A pioneer and champion

Swann-Wright joined the 91短视频 community as an assistant in the learning center in August 1990. [She was then known as Dianne Wright.] She served as director of multicultural programs from 1993-97. During this time, she taught African American history courses and led cross-cultural groups to Kenya, encouraging African American students to learn more about their heritage.

From 1997-98, she became the first African American to hold a senior administrative role on campus when she served as interim vice president for student life.

While at 91短视频, she earned a doctorate in American history from University of Virginia.

From 1998 to 2005, Swann-Wright was director of African-American and special programs at Monticello. Her hiring as the first African American senior staff member was 鈥�,鈥� wrote historian Kendra Hamilton in 1999. Before her hiring by then-Director of Research Lucia 鈥淐inder鈥� Stanton,鈥� Hamilton notes there was 鈥渁 gaping crater in the institution鈥檚 allegedly comprehensive knowledge of life on Jefferson鈥檚 mountaintop.鈥�

Swann-Wright and Stanton co-founded the , which has identified and collected oral histories from descendants of families enslaved at Monticello. The duo also co-authored the official Monticello report linking Jefferson to Sally Hemings. Much of their research helped to develop programming and interpretation around African American life, experiences and culture at Monticello.

Influencing, empowering

At 91短视频, Swann-Wright was no less influential.

“She was the reason why I was able to succeed as a student at 91短视频, and she was why I came back to be her successor at 91短视频 as director of multicultural services,鈥� says , now a professor of social work at 91短视频. 鈥淪he was the reason why I had the courage to return again and teach. She believed in me.”

Several other alumni share similarly strong admiration and affection for Swann-Wright. 鈥淥utstanding woman and supporter,鈥� wrote one alumna in a Facebook post.

Swann-Wright鈥檚 passion for sharing and celebrating African American history was remembered by Professor Emeritus , who served with her on an advisory council to support multicultural efforts, appreciation and programming.

Pannell also recalls this influence: 鈥淪he ensured that as a student of color, I was immersed, engaged and empowered by voices within the community-at-large that reflected my history and ancestry. She took me and other students to meet in person Cornell West, Maya Angelou, Sonya Sanchez and James Farmer, powerful voices that each spoke to the importance of raising my own voice, critically and with creatively, about issues of social justice.鈥�

Longtime friend Linda Alley first met and worked with Swann-Wright in what was then called the Student Life Division.

鈥淚 watched as Di went far beyond her job description in mentoring students, many of whom kept in touch with her for years,鈥� Alley said. 鈥淪he would report to me how proud she was or which ones needed extra prayer. She sent pictures of them and their children, because they were her spiritual family. My own son benefited from a tutoring session when she came to our house and spent some hours with him. Teaching was her gift, and she did it from a place of deep wisdom.鈥�

Swann-Wright had an insightful way of helping faculty and administrators to see the causes and potential effects of decisions, Alley said. 鈥�91短视频 would be a different place without the lingering effects of Dianne鈥檚 sojourn there.鈥�

鈥淪he told once told me that her life鈥檚 work was helping people to recognize and respond to society鈥檚 lies and views. She called this 鈥榯he Great Re-Education Project,鈥欌�� recalls nursing professor . 鈥淒ianne was deeply influential among 91短视频 faculty and staff due to her honesty, openness and ability to name truth.鈥�

Lee Snyder was academic dean when Swann-Wright was at 91短视频. 鈥淲e worked closely together. I learned much from Dianne, a generous colleague and dear friend,鈥� Snyder said. 鈥淪he taught me the power of story in furthering appreciation of diversity and she modeled a gracious spirit which has enriched all of us who knew her.鈥�

When Snyder was president at Bluffton College, she invited Swann-Wright to speak about her Monticello research.

鈥淎nd we all celebrated with her when her book, A Way Out of No Way: Claiming Family and Freedom in the New South, was published in 2002 by University of Virginia Press,鈥� Snyder said, recalling that much of that research was completed while Swann-Wright was balancing full-time work at 91短视频 with her doctoral work.

Remembrances of Dianne Swann-Wright are encouraged (use the comment box below) and will be shared with the family.听

Representing more than 50 years of leadership were Myron Augsburger and wife Esther, Joe Lapp and wife Hannah, Loren Swartzendruber and wife Pat, and former interim president and provost Beryl Brubaker and husband Mark.

Louise Hostetter, chair of the Centennial Committee, offered a prayer for the coming year, in part recalling the founders of the university and the many generations of educational leaders who have contributed to 91短视频鈥檚 legacy: 鈥淲e are thankful for all who have gone before us, and have for the past 100 years, helped build the foundations of academic excellence, made holy by years of faithful discipleship. We are grateful for those who have made it possible for us to be here today, through prayer, encouragement, and mentoring. May we also embody the values of the servants and leaders who have walked this campus before us and with us. May we never forget them.鈥�

Centennial history may have been foremost in many minds, but student body co-presidents Caleb Schrock-Hurst and听Adam Harnish gave a special nod to their fellow students.

鈥淔or 100 years, students have been coming here, but you are the first ones to arrive at this time in this place,鈥� Schrock-Hurst said. 鈥淏efore we鈥檙e swamped by homework, before practices become games, before we don鈥檛 have the time to think about why we鈥檙e here, let鈥檚 take a moment to reflect. We are here to embody Jesus鈥� spirit in the world, and that is a task that should not be forgotten no matter how fun any weekend may be. We have a difficult task, but it is one we can take on with joy, and we are excited to do that with you all.鈥�

In his welcome, Provost Fred Kniss acknowledged the recent events in Charlottesville and asserted the university鈥檚 imperative role as a place where even in debate and conflict, 鈥渆very person is treated with dignity and respect.鈥�

鈥�91短视频 is a place where each of us brings our own personal history and perspective to bear on the most confounding questions of the day,鈥� he said. 鈥淏ut as a university, we offer an alternative to the anger and violence that seem to mar so much of our society’s public conversation these days.”

As she鈥檚 been in office since January and was inaugurated in April, this was Huxman鈥檚 first opportunity to welcome a new class of first-year students to 91短视频 鈥� the first group of students who will spend all four of their years on campus in 91短视频鈥檚 second century.

She offered two parallel narratives, the first based on the popular children鈥檚 book The Carrot Seed by Ruth Krauss, about a little boy with great faith that his carrot seed would sprout.

A second narrative highlighted the 鈥渞adical roots鈥� of 91短视频鈥檚 founders, who believed in the institution and persevered, despite great odds, in its founding and eventual flourishing. From seven students, five faculty, and three subjects of study in 1917, the university has expanded to nearly 1,800 students in undergraduate and graduate programs,148 faculty, 40 majors, and two additional instructional sites in Lancaster and Washington D.C.

After the final hymn, students traveling on cross-cultural during the semester were invited to the front for a prayer and blessing, as happens during each fall and spring convocation. This time, it was the Middle East cross-cultural group, led by Bill Goldberg and Lisa Schirch, which leaves tomorrow 鈥� the 25th semester program to the region .

Interim cross-cultural program director Ann Hershberger said that these students were about 鈥渢o go on a physical journey, a spiritual journey, an intellectual journey, and an emotional journey. They go representing us.”

Each semester and summer, 91短视频 students spread out across the globe, usually accompanied by faculty and staff who have lived in the area and who, with the help of natives, introduce a perspective into the culture that is far more intimate than just visiting the usual tourist sites. The experience is much more unique than typical study-abroad programs in which students are housed in universities and take traditional academic coursework.

Several graduate programs also offer cross-culturals, including the and , MA in biomedicine [read more and ], and .

View a of 91短视频鈥檚 cross-cultural program.

The unforgettable experience of her semester travels in France and the Ivory Coast 鈥渟till permeates my life 20 years later,鈥� said Carrie Stambaugh Bert at a 2014 . More recently, student Sarah Regan shared that her Central Europe travels 鈥渞eally broadened my view.鈥�

鈥淚 learned so much more about things I never even thought about at home, things I never thought existed to know,鈥� she said.

A panel discussion, 鈥�Drinking in Knowledge at the Source: 91短视频鈥檚 Cross Cultural Program,鈥� at the 2017 faculty-staff conference discussed the origins, goals and changes over the years of one of 91短视频鈥檚 most unique programs, which started formally in 1982.

Panelists included:

• is a nursing professor, director of the Humanitarian Action Leadership program and interim cross-cultural program director. She and her husband Jim have led several cross-culturals, most recently to Guatemala and Cuba. The couple spent 10 years in church-sponsored service in Central America.
• , program assistant, has accompanied groups with her husband Brian Martin Burkholder, most recently to Bolivia.
• , emeritus professor of German, was one of the first cross-cultural leaders. His introduction to the cross-cultural experience came with an alternative service tour in Austria with Pax, a program of created in response to the reinstatement of the military draft in the United States after the start of the Korean War. Glick helped to launch Goshen鈥檚 Study-Service Term in 1968 and led a year of this program (1969-70) in Guadeloupe, FWI.
• 听has led the local context cross-cultural and groups to the U.S./Mexico border, Guatemala and Cuba, often with his wife, Professor Deanna Durham;
• , psychology professor, has led groups to India, where she spent many years as a teenager;
• 听is a professor of history and director of the Washington D.C.-based , housed in the Nelson Good House in the Brookland neighborhood. She has also led two groups to Europe.

Audience members included faculty and staff alumni who had experienced cross-culturals themselves as students, faculty and staff trip leaders, prospective leaders, and one faculty member, speaking for many others, who said he was 鈥渏ealous 鈥� When do we get to go?鈥�

Challenging changes: technology and globalization

The first broad theme to be discussed was notable changes over the years. Technology came up several times. Instead of leaving behind their family friends, students have access to phones and computers, which leaders say can be a distraction and even a destabilizing presence.

鈥淚t鈥檚 difficult for the experience to be an immersive one,鈥� said Brenneman.

This accessibility also impacts parental demands and expectations: 鈥淪ome parents think that because their child can contact them every day, that they should be talking or Skyping every day, and when they don鈥檛, that becomes a challenge for the student,鈥� one panelist said.

Peachey also mentioned creeping globalization: for example, visiting an American-style mall in Guatemala 鈥渃an make you think you鈥檙e in Bethesda, Maryland.鈥�

At WCSC, Washington D.C.鈥檚 rapid gentrification has changed the demographics and diversity of the area. Schmidt, a longtime D.C. resident, points out that when she first started as director in 1999, the city had more than 70 percent African American residents; that number has fallen to just over 50 percent.

She pointed out, though, that the cross-cultural experience is very much shaped by the choices of the leader. For example, one could visit Germany with students, as she did this summer, and completely ignore the current refugee crisis. Her students did not; they interacted with Syrian refugees. 鈥淚t鈥檚 all in how you teach it and what you expose your students to,鈥� she said.

Defining and measuring 鈥榮uccess鈥�

Professor emeritus Ervie Glick posed a question about measurement of success to his fellow panelists. 鈥淭here is no test afterwards,鈥� he pointed out, adding that the extensive journaling required of student-travelers often provides a window into unwitnessed and subtle changes to student worldviews.

Burkholder said a 鈥済rowth in empathy鈥� was a quality she considered to be a favorable measurement. One group of students, when visiting a poor area of a South American city, showed increased awareness of how their presence might be perceived negatively by residents.

Brenneman shared an anecdote of two students who became lost in Kolkutta 鈥斺�渙ne of the safest cities in Asia鈥� 鈥� and eventually, using broken Hindi, found their way back, exhilarated by their new-found confidence.

Within a day of arriving at WCSC, Schmidt says students are sent on a scavenger hunt around the nation鈥檚 capital, using any combination of public transportation to visit known and not-so-known places. The tradition builds confidence in a very tangible way.

鈥淚n our culture, there鈥檚 not enough opportunities for proving themselves and taking risks and having an adventure,鈥� said Peachey, theorizing about what makes the cross-cultural program such a transformational experience for undergraduate students. 鈥淚 think that鈥檚 one of the big draws.鈥�

More on 91短视频鈥檚 cross-cultural program

• Visit a to see the program鈥檚 history of travel and immersion around the world.
• Learn more about 91短视频’s cross-cultural requirement and visit the cross-cultural blog.
• Read more about to Europe, Bolivia, Navajo Nation and Spain.
• The explored Anabaptist and Reformation history, with special attention to women鈥檚 history and to sites in Austria.
• The first in fall 2016, led by Professor and his wife Amanda, attended 35 plays, visited 38 theaters, and produced their own dramatic piece about the different stages of cultural integration.

The final blessing, offered by Undergraduate Campus Pastor , included a prayer for each attendee, the students from all faiths and backgrounds who would begin arriving on campus that day, and 鈥� in acknowledgement of 鈥� for courage to confront 鈥渟ystems of racism that destroy rather than build the Kingdom of God.鈥�

This year鈥檚 theme听鈥斕�淓xpanding the Legacy, Enlarging the Tent鈥� 鈥� emphasized integrating 91短视频鈥檚 history and traditions with a vision for its second century; the conference also officially launched 91短视频鈥檚 celebrations.

Strong vision

President donned three different types of eyewear during her keynote address to illustrate the 鈥渟pecial kind of seeing we do in Anabaptist Mennonite schools 鈥� more clearly, deeply and widely.鈥� [Listen to the .]

91短视频 is well-poised with 鈥渟trong vision and high purpose鈥� for the future, she said.

Merging perspectives of hindsight and foresight with Anabaptist-inspired insight, she noted 91短视频鈥檚 strong and vibrant historic legacy; a robust, holistic and distinctive education that includes cross-cultural study and faith formation; and a cohesive, faith-filled community of faculty and staff.

鈥淲e have just begun to promote a vibrant future of counter-cultural Mennonite education, one that prepares our students for relevant and in-demand careers and meaningful spiritual lives shaped by the reconciling love of Jesus,鈥� Huxman said.

While praising 91短视频鈥檚 entrepreneurial spirit, epitomized in pioneering professor emeritus and philanthropist Margaret 鈥淪peedy鈥� Martin Gehman and Alumnus of the Year , Huxman noted new academic offerings: the program, offered collaboratively with Goshen (Indiana) College, as well as the new four-year and a neuroscience minor.

Approximately 380 new and returning employees participated. The fall semester begins Monday, Aug. 28.

听Many voices

A panel of respondents to Huxman鈥檚 speech included , , and . The final session of storytelling, a much-loved tradition, included , , , and .

Special guest Donald B. Kraybill provided a one-hour preview of his forthcoming Centennial history, 91短视频: One Hundred Years of Counter-Cultural Education (Penn State Press, 2017) to be released at the Oct. 13-15 .

Four breakout sessions highlighted influential programs, themes and concepts:

• 鈥� Professors and traced the history of racial-ethnic diversity at 91短视频, with special attention to current diversity trends and shifting paradigms. They asked, 鈥淗ow could and should paradigms and power structures shift? How can and should our new diversity help us more fully understand and realize the radical nature of our Anabaptist values?鈥� Click here to .

• Drinking in Knowledge at the Source: 91短视频’s Cross Cultural Program 鈥� A panel of five experienced cross-cultural program leaders discussed one of 91短视频鈥檚 most unique academic programs and included , professor and interim cross-cultural program director; , program assistant; , emeritus professor; , cross-cultural leader and adjunct instructor; and professors and .
• Creating a Beloved Community at 91短视频: Organizational Culture as Blessing and Barrier 鈥� Professor discussed culture and sub-culture identities as both assets and liabilities. He invited the group to list both blessings and barriers to 91短视频鈥檚 culture (and multiple sub cultures), noting that you must first understand your own organizational culture before you can听interpret for听鈥斕齛nd thus fully integrate听鈥斕齨ewcomers.
• 鈥淭hy Word is Truth鈥�: Old Song, New Tune 鈥� Professor , associate dean of Eastern Mennonite Seminary, and Professor discussed 鈥渨ord鈥� and 鈥渢ruth鈥� as the biblical writer imagined these words, and engaged with ways that the motto speaks to听91短视频 at 100 years.

鈥淭he MAOL is a great blend of business and personal skill development,鈥� says Gabb, operations and business manager at in Timberville, Va. 鈥淭he program can build you up, but more importantly, it reveals to you and others who you really are.鈥�

Learning who he 鈥渞eally鈥� is as a leader has helped Gabb improve relationships and efficiencies in his unique role, a position which he describes as 鈥渁 mixture of human resources, production and administration.鈥�

Based in several hundred acres of Shenandoah Valley orchards, the business sells its apples throughout the United States and internationally through wholesalers, distributors and retail chains. They also grow peaches, nectarines and cherries for seasonal sales at two area farm stands, local farmers鈥� markets and local retailers.

Through MAOL coursework, Gabb says his leadership skills have expanded to better awareness of his strengths and weaknesses, stronger listening skills, the capability to view multiple perspectives, and a versatile and more flexible leadership style.

鈥淚 highly recommend the program to anyone who thinks they are a leader or need to become a leader,鈥� said Gabb, who also completed his bachelor’s degree in 2006 through 91短视频’s .

The MAOL program is just one of several graduate and certificate programs at 91短视频 with the common curricular goal of developing leadership for the common good. Additionally, the highly successful degree completion program, which started in 1995, has a similar emphasis; students with at least 60 credit hours of undergraduate work can work towards a bachelor鈥檚 degree in leadership and organizational management.

Students bring their skills, life and professional experiences into the classroom, where they explore leadership and organizational skills, as well as conflict management, strategic planning, decision-making processes and financial management.

“The School of Graduate and Professional Studies at 91短视频 is a remarkable place to be,鈥� says , director of admissions and marketing. 鈥淚n many ways, it is an incubator for new ideas and new approaches to higher education at 91短视频. These programs banding together is just one example of the synergy and collaborative spirit here. The school is also quite nimble, which allows us to quickly respond to听evolving challenges and opportunities in our community and beyond.” 听

MA in Organizational Leadership enrolling the fourth cohort

The graduated its second cohort in April and will enroll its fourth cohort this fall.

Professors and have been added to the faculty. Stauffer, who teaches in the undergraduate Applied Social Sciences Department and with the MA in Biomedicine program, will teach an introductory course in leadership studies. Kioko, who is completing her doctorate at James Madison University, will teach project development.

A cross-cultural component has also been added. 鈥�91短视频 has long led the way in promoting the benefits of a cross-cultural learning experience and we want our graduate students to have this opportunity as well,鈥� says Professor , the new director of the MAOL program.

MAOL students beginning this fall will have two options at the end of their coursework: an organizational sustainability course that includes travel to Costa Rica (a for several years), or a domestic cross-cultural course designed with 2-3 weekend excursions to areas of cultural diversity in the Mid-Atlantic region.

Brubaker has added oversight of the MAOL program to a portfolio that also includes administration of the MBA program. He has taught in the MAOL and MBA programs, and for many years, taught in the .

He takes over from Dr. , who will become interim graduate dean.

鈥淒ave brings significant real-world experience to his teaching and administration, gleaned from many years as an organizational change consultant,鈥� Cockley says.

Humanitarian Action Leadership program offers practical skills

This summer and fall, local and international students alike will benefit from a series of online courses offered by 91短视频’s Humanitarian Action Leadership (HAL) program.

鈥淭he HAL program is a response to the growing challenges and complexities of our global society, offering a range of courses delivered by experienced practitioners to NGOs, aid agencies, government organizations, businesses, and individuals working to address natural and human-made disasters,鈥� says Dr. , who came to teaching from a multifaceted career in family and community health, including many years in Central America.

Coursework draws on 91短视频鈥檚 niche programs: sustainable and compassionate leadership, peacemaking and peacebuilding, and trauma awareness and resilience.

The program explores topics related to disaster response and humanitarian action through the lenses of climate change, peacebuilding, justice, sustainable development, capacity building, resiliency and personal formation from a values and faith base. These courses are available in multiple formats. Students can choose to pursue a graduate certificate (18 credits), a MA in Interdisciplinary Studies (36 credits), or an undergraduate minor.

HAL will also work with individual organizations to develop and deliver custom training sessions or workshops to address specific needs.

MS in Nursing Program enters eighth year

The听听(MSN) program started its eighth year of operation with an orientation session in May 2017 for the Leadership and School Nursing concentration and with the upcoming orientation in July for the Leadership and Management concentration.

鈥淪tudents and faculty continue to explore new ways to integrate the 91短视频 nursing philosophy of sacred covenant with servant leadership in the diverse practice roles and settings of nursing,鈥� says program director Dr. .

With students from Nepal to southern Africa, the MSN has increased in geographic, professional and organizational diversity.

鈥淲ith the fall 2017 entering class, we hope to welcome several students from South America and the Middle East,鈥� Tyson said. 鈥淭his diversity of students, partnered with faculty from the U.S. to Central America within an online environment while still maintaining a high level of relationship, illustrates the 91短视频 values of community across cultures and practices.鈥�

The program added adjunct faculty members Carli Youndt, MSN 鈥�15, in the school nurse concentration, and Doug Alderfer, an assistant superintendent of schools with Rockingham County Public Schools, in the leadership and management track.

Ten students will complete their capstone projects in August, implementing evidence-based quality improvement initiatives in the following projects:

• improving the health of diabetic students in schools,
• preventing oxygenation loss events in patients transported within hospitals,
• creating a mental health screening of foster children in developing countries,
• implementing an innovative “grab and go” breakfast program for school children, and
• enhancing nursing education through learning how to capture patient narratives.

Adult degree program increases flexibility with hybrid classes

The newly revised features the BS in Leadership and Organizational Management. The progam will begin offering hybrid classes for fall 2017, according to , program director.

鈥淭his program is designed specifically for working adults who want to complete their bachelor’s degree while still maintaining work and family commitments,鈥� she says.

Students complete a 16-month program as a cohort, forming a learning community that provides academic and social support. 听A hybrid (or blended) format was chosen to address the need for flexibility without sacrificing a strong sense of community.

Courses are offered in a five-week format with asynchronous (on your own time) online sessions during the second and fourth weeks of the course. During the first, third and fifth weeks, students attend a single traditional class session on campus from 6-10 p.m.

Follow the activities and learning of our cross-cultural programs this semester on the and on听.

The Symbolic Universe of Guatemala, by Robert Propst

Some of the most important things are invisible and impalpable. Love has no color. Freedom has no taste. Hope has no smell. Peace has no texture. Respect has no sound. For this reason, we have developed symbols. Hearts represent love, for example. But the symbols we use are by no means the objectively correct symbols, so they are therefore free to vary by culture. In the United States, our flag represents freedom, and the eagle carrying an olive branch represents peace.

When we visited the cemetery in our first week of study, our guide, Joel van Dike, explained that to truly engage with a culture, one must enter the 鈥渟ymbolic universe鈥� of a place. To understand Guatemala, one must understand Guatemala鈥檚 symbols. In the United States, the number 1776 signifies independence. Here, that number is 1812.

The image attached to this post is of a painting I saw in the Cloud Forest Conservation Center. I will use this to provide an introduction to Guatemala鈥檚 symbolic Universe.

The entire image looks roughly like a quetzal in flight. Indeed, the feathers are those of a quetzal. The quetzal is the national bird and also the name of the currency. (Why don鈥檛 we do that? As in, gasoline costs 2.50 eagles per gallon; I have ten eagles in my wallet; minimum wage is 7.25 eagles.) The quetzal is mostly green, but it bears many colors. It has elegant tail feathers and is extremely rare. It cannot live in captivity. It follows, then, that the quetzal symbolizes freedom and beauty.

There is also another kind of quetzal in this image, specifically the 1 quetzal coin. It鈥檚 worth a little less than one seventh of an eagle, I mean US dollar. On one side is the signature on the peace treaty that officially ended the armed conflict. Some violence is ongoing, but the signature nevertheless signifies peace.

Speaking of currency, the large yellow objects are the cocoa nuts. These were used by the Mayans as currency. Moreover, they were used to calculate transactions in the base 20 system used by the Mayan people. Plus, they make chocolate. Close to 50% of the population is indigenous, and most of the rest still have a little Mayan blood. The cocoa nut symbolizes, at least in this painting, Mayan heritage.

The leaves are of Monstera Deliciosa, commonly known as 鈥渟wiss cheese plant鈥� or 鈥渞ib of Adam.鈥� It is a plant native to Central America and probably has some cultural value that I am unaware of.

The flower in the painting is an orchid. I don鈥檛 know which species this is but there are a lot of species here. Orchids are highly complex flowers and often are adapted to attract a specific type of pollinator. Here, I think it symbolizes beauty and diversity.

This brings us to the head, a silhouette of a rooster. It is the logo of Gallo brand beer. It is a company based in Guatemala and owned by the very wealthy Castillo family. On one hand, the logo is a popular icon. On the other hand, it is a mark of inequality.

Let鈥檚 make a full circle back to the cemetery. Poor people are put into a common wall-like structure above ground and are removed when the family can鈥檛 pay. Wealthy families bury their dead in grand mausoleums. One mausoleum was huge, the color of sandstone, and decorated with Egyptian symbols like the sphinx. It reminds one of a pyramid, the tombs of great pharaohs constructed by slaves. It is the Castillo family tomb. To me this says: 鈥淲e are the ruling class and you are the peasants.鈥� So the Gallo logo represents the challenges that Guatemala faces. It also says that very few families are the head of the nation.

These are the masks the invisible qualities wear in Guatemala. Thank you for dipping your toes into my host-culture鈥檚 symbolic universe.