Andrews University Agenda

Andrews University Agenda http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/ News and Events at Andrews University en-us Copyright 2026, Andrews University Sat, 31 Jan 2026 06:35:00 +0000 Sat, 31 Jan 2026 06:35:00 +0000 webmaster@andrews.edu webmaster@andrews.edu New Student Missions & Service Program Director http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/68787 <p> Andrews University welcomes Rebecca Fanai as the new student missions and service program director in the Center for Faith Engagement. In this role, Fanai mentors and connects students with meaningful service and mission opportunities, both locally and internationally. She also collaborates with campus partners—including churches, community organizations and global mission agencies—to build sustainable service pathways and develop programs, trainings and outreach initiatives for the Andrews community.</p> <p> “I guide students through the entire journey—from exploring their calling, to preparing for cross-cultural service, to supporting them during and after their mission experience,” Fanai says. “Overall, my role is about creating spaces where students can grow, serve and discover how God is calling them to make a difference.”</p> <p> Fanai was born and raised in Myanmar/Burma, with family roots in Northeast India. She also spent time living in the Philippines, which she notes, “deeply shaped my worldview and my love for service in multicultural settings.” Most recently, she lived in Maryland and affirms, “Each place I’ve lived has shaped my heart for ministry, service and building community across cultures.”</p> <p> She attended Andrews University for her undergraduate degree, sharing, “My strongest connection to Andrews began during my time as a student. Being here shaped me in so many ways—spiritually, academically and personally. I was involved in ministry and service opportunities on campus, and those experiences planted the seeds of purpose and calling that I’m now able to pour into my work with students.”</p> <p> In 2020, Fanai graduated from Andrews with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, later becoming a licensed registered nurse. She also started a nonprofit organization called Project Chin Hills, which serves the Chin diaspora and provides humanitarian aid to communities in need. Her work in these roles developed important skills in communication, outreach, service and support.</p> <p> “Both my nursing background and nonprofit leadership have prepared me to serve students in missions by giving me a strong foundation in compassion, cultural sensitivity, mentorship and practical problem-solving,” she explains. “These experiences allow me to walk alongside students in meaningful ways as they prepare to step into unfamiliar environments and explore God’s calling for their lives.”</p> <p> Earlier in 2025, Fanai learned about the opening for student missions and service program director at Andrews. She reflects that the position immediately resonated with a passion God had placed on her heart: to empower young adults to serve with purpose. “It felt like God opening a door back to a community that shaped me, and I sensed a calling to return and invest in students the same way mentors once invested in me.”</p> <p> Fanai most looks forward to journeying with the students on campus—hearing their stories, encouraging their sense of mission and witnessing the growth that happens through service. She hopes to bring a spirit of compassion, openness and intentional mentorship to her new role, noting, “I want to help cultivate a campus culture where service and mission are woven into everyday life and where students feel empowered to live out their faith through meaningful action. I hope that each individual/student I encounter would come to know the love of Jesus or live out their love for Jesus and serve like He did.”</p> <p> She shares, “I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve Andrews again, and I’m humbled by the ways God has led me back here. I’m excited to walk alongside our students as they step into mission, grow in their faith and discover how they can serve the world with courage, compassion and purpose.”</p> Thu, 29 Jan 2026 11:04:12 +0000 Knott Named Interim Assistant to the President http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/68748 <p> Andrews University is pleased to introduce Esther R. Knott as interim assistant to the president for Mission & Culture and diversity officer. Later this year, there will be a search process to fill the position on a regular basis.</p> <p> Knott is an alumna of Andrews University and brings to this role a remarkable breadth of experience in ministry, leadership and community engagement that will serve the University community well.</p> <p> Knott’s career in Adventist ministry spans more than four decades. She began her pastoral ministry as chaplain at Broadview Academy and later as assistant chaplain at Andrews. Her pastoral leadership at Sligo Church in Maryland and her 16 years at Pioneer Memorial Church have demonstrated her effectiveness in nurturing faith communities.</p> <p> Most recently, Knott served for 13 years as associate director of the North American Division (NAD) Ministerial Association, where she trained and inspired pastors in the NAD and around the world. She has also directed the Master of Arts in Pastoral Ministry Program (English) at the Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary.</p> <p> Beyond her denominational service, Knott has demonstrated a sustained commitment to her local community. She has been a member of the Berrien Springs Rotary Club since 1997, serving as club president and organizing service initiatives including Christmas Behind Bars, Christmas Care (serving over 300 local families) and Neighbor to Neighbor. Her volunteer work extends to Big Brothers Big Sisters, the Berrien County Youth Fair and the annual CROP Hunger Walk.</p> <p> Her service has also taken her abroad on mission trips to Bolivia, Belize, Ecuador, India, Mexico and Peru, as well as health volunteer work with Pathway to Health and AMEN clinics.</p> <p> Knott brings a global perspective, having lived in Trinidad, the United Kingdom, Canada and the United States. She has a rich history of working effectively in broadly multicultural settings, experiences that will serve her and Andrews well as she steps into this role.</p> <p> Knott shares, “It is a great honor to assist the president in enhancing the ways in which our culturally rich community will experience the specific God-given mission of Andrews University.” She adds, “It is my prayer that all who spend time on our campus will experience God’s love as contagious and compelling, and that, because of our shared global cultural connections, will find creative ways to communicate God’s love to a world that so desperately needs it.”</p> <div> <u font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); box-sizing: border-box;">                    </u></div> <div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> To learn more about studying at Andrews University, please visit <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/admissions/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">Enrollment</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> If you’re interested in joining the Andrews University team, please see the list of available <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/services/hr/job_seekers/index.html" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">positions</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> We invite you to support the Andrews University mission by making a <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/services/development/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">donation</a>.</div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> Please read more about great things happening at Andrews University <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/agenda/feed/Agenda:+Campus+News/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">here</a>.<span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);"> </span></div> </div> Mon, 26 Jan 2026 14:26:41 +0000 Cancelled: Wind Symphony Winter Concert http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/68724 <p> <strong>Update</strong>: <i>Due to winter weather and unsafe road conditions, the Andrews University Wind Symphony has been unable to hold sufficient rehearsals to be fully prepared for the upcoming concert. As a result, the winter concert is officially canceled. </i></p> <p> To begin the new year, the Andrews University Wind Symphony will host its annual winter concert in collaboration with the Southwestern Michigan College Brass Band. The two ensembles will present “A British Winter’s Night” on Saturday, Jan. 31, at the Howard Performing Arts Center. The concert, scheduled to begin at 7:30 p.m., will showcase a collection of traditional English pieces.</p> <p> Both ensembles will feature music composed by Ralph Vaughan Williams. Beginning the concert, the Southwestern Michigan Brass Band will play under the direction of Mark Hollandsworth. Their set includes Williams’ “Sea Songs” as well as several other pieces by composers Jan de Haan, Philip Sparke and George Frideric Handel.</p> <p> After a short intermission, the Andrews University Wind Symphony, conducted by Denisse Santos-Gooden, will conclude the concert. They will continue the lively British theme, performing Williams’ “English Folk Song Suite” as well as other additional pieces composed by Greg Sanders, Leroy Anderson, Jan Van der Roost and Percy Grainger.</p> <p> Tickets to “A British Winter’s Night” can be purchased at <a href="https://howard.andrews.edu">howard.andrews.edu</a>. General admission tickets are priced individually at $8.50. Students and seniors can purchase discounted tickets for $6.50 (with a limit of two tickets per student ID). For more information, contact the Howard Box Office at 269-471-3560.</p> Thu, 15 Jan 2026 11:40:01 +0000 Andrews to Host Standout Spiritual Retreat http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/68701 <p> Andrews University is excited to once again host Standout, a spiritual retreat for high school-aged students from public or homeschool backgrounds, from Feb. 20–22, 2026. Free of cost for all registered students and sponsors, Standout offers complimentary lodging and meals throughout the weekend. The featured speaker will be Jermaine Gayle, senior pastor of the Kalamazoo Seventh-day Adventist Church.</p> <p> The event will feature several interactive elements. Worship sessions will be held to uplift spirits and deepen faith, showcasing student musicians and inspiring speakers. In addition, workshops will enable attendees to explore purpose and leadership. Each training session has been designed to engage students in thought-provoking conversations and activities, helping them discover their path and potential.</p> <p> The weekend is not only an opportunity to praise God in community and explore one’s calling but also to experience on-campus life. The retreat will give students an idea of the mission that Andrews University strives to carry out, displaying how the convergence of faith and purpose within a learning environment leads to world-changing graduates. Guests will be able to interact with Andrews students and learn more about attending the University.</p> <p> Standout is offered to the home and public school community nationwide, creating a unique environment where students can interact with individuals from across the country. Many social activities and events will be held, allowing for attendees to meet new people and create meaningful connections. Standout is an opportunity to engage, foster relationships and strengthen spiritual life. It offers a brief look into the faith-filled community that is Andrews University.</p> <p> Alanna Rodriguez Merlos, program director of the Discipleship Center, affirms the impact of the event. She emphasizes how Standout can positively affect the relationships that students create, noting, “The friends young people choose [have] a direct influence on their long-term choices. For this reason, the Standout weekend is designed to grow students’ love for Christ in community with each other.”</p> <p> Rodriguez Merlos adds, “The core value of the weekend is to provide Christ-centered community that contrasts the secular environment that often pulls them away from Christ and [to provide] an environment to make friends that will draw them closer to God.”</p> <p> Standout is a special, immersive opportunity for public high school and homeschool students to develop relationships founded on faith and community. Packed with the interactive sessions, worship services and campus explorations, this weekend will impact all who attend.</p> <p> To register, visit <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/splash/standout/">www.andrews.edu/go/standout</a>.</p> Thu, 08 Jan 2026 12:31:04 +0000 2026 Newmyer Classic to Welcome Over 40 Teams http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/68699 <p> The annual Newmyer Classic, a high school basketball tournament hosted by Andrews University, will return to campus from Jan. 22–24, welcoming more than 40 teams from across the United States and Canada.</p> <p> Formerly known as the Cardinal Classic, the tournament was renamed the Newmyer Classic in 2016 to honor the Newmyer family for their long-standing support of Christian and Seventh-day Adventist education. Now in its 10th year under the Newmyer name, the tournament has become a signature event from the Andrews University Office of Athletics. It emphasizes competitive excellence, sportsmanship and faith-centered fellowship.</p> <p> “This tournament is all about providing a distinctly Christ-centered environment for students, coaches and fans,” says Kevin Wooldridge, Andrews University athletic director and Newmyer Classic director. “The Newmyer Classic has a rich history of great sportsmanship and conduct that continues to make this one of the best tournaments available for participating schools.”</p> <p> Teams will arrive on campus the evening of Wednesday, Jan. 21, with games beginning early Thursday morning. Each team will play five games total, including two games on Thursday, two on Friday, and one championship or placement game on Saturday evening.</p> <p> Games will be hosted primarily in the Andreasen Center for Wellness, with additional games held in the Johnson Gym and the Andrews Academy gymnasium. All championship games and closing ceremonies will take place on Saturday night in the Andreasen Center for Wellness.</p> <p> The tournament features four divisions: two boys’ divisions and two girls’ divisions, with placement determined by school size, season records and level of play. Approximately 600 students, coaches and staff members are expected to participate throughout the weekend.</p> <p> In addition to athletic competition, the Newmyer Classic experience includes shared meals, worship opportunities and community-building events. Participants will attend organized worship programs and enjoy all-you-can-eat meals provided by Andrews University’s Bon Appétit Dining Services.</p> <p> “Beyond the games, the most important part of the Newmyer Classic is the fellowship and relationships that are formed,” Wooldridge adds. “The game is never as important as the people you play it with.”</p> <p> Most of the tournament games, including championship matchups, will be live streamed on YouTube, and a dynamic online tournament bracket will provide real-time updates. Seating for in-person attendance will be available but limited.</p> <div> <u font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); box-sizing: border-box;">                    </u></div> <div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> To learn more about studying at Andrews University, please visit <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/admissions/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">Enrollment</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> If you’re interested in joining the Andrews University team, please see the list of available <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/services/hr/job_seekers/index.html" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">positions</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> We invite you to support the Andrews University mission by making a <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/services/development/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">donation</a>.</div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> Please read more about great things happening at Andrews University <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/agenda/feed/Agenda:+Campus+News/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">here</a>.<span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);"> </span></div> </div> Thu, 08 Jan 2026 10:45:47 +0000 Unique New Scholarship for School of Social Work http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/68624 <div> A new scholarship, titled Lira’s Legacy Scholarship, was recently established to aid students with disabilities within the Andrews University School of Social Work. Valued at $1,500, the scholarship will be offered annually. In order to apply, students must be studying social work and identify as living with autism spectrum disorder or a documented disability that significantly impacts day-to-day life. This scholarship enhances both the University and its surrounding community, as it emphasizes the importance of individuality and recognizes the need to create a more equitable path for people with disabilities.</div> <div>  </div> <div> The recipient of the 2025–2026 scholarship is Caundee Cauvin, master of divinity and master of social work student. Reflecting on her feelings and experiences, Cauvin shares, “Applying required me to reflect honestly on what it means to live with ADHD—both the challenges and the strengths it brings. It pushed me to acknowledge parts of my story that I usually keep private.” She adds, “When I found out I had been selected … it was a moment of validation—a reminder that when we are honest about invisible disabilities, we open the door to understanding, support and encouragement rather than stigma."</div> <div>  </div> <div> The scholarship was created by Mariella Pechero. She shares that one of her many reasons for creating the scholarship was her experience as the mother of a non-neurotypical son. Pechero says, “My hope is that this scholarship will offer comfort to parents, in a small but meaningful reminder that they are seen, understood, and not alone. I hope it serves as a symbol of our shared belief that our children can thrive.”</div> <div>  </div> <div> Pechero named the scholarship in remembrance of her late aunt, Lira Weiss. She describes Weiss’ “passionate love and tenacity” as well as her lifelong commitment to people. Pechero also affirms that Weiss, inspired by the many social workers in her family, saw the inherent value of every individual, regardless of ability. Weiss had deep roots within the Andrews community, as the mother of Ingrid Slikkers, associate professor of social work and executive director of the International Center for Trauma Education & Care, as well as the grandmother and aunt to several other students in the School of Social Work.</div> <div>  </div> <div> Slikkers reflects, “This scholarship feels deeply personal because it represents my mother’s legacy of compassion and service. It reminds me that the values she lived—care, advocacy and community—continue to shape others through this award.”</div> <div>  </div> <div> Shannon Trecartin, professor and chair of the School of Social Work, says, “The scholarship is not an abstract fund. Instead, it is an expression of love, legacy, and family.” Weiss’ close connection to the Andrews University community has given the scholarship a touching and lasting impact. The values behind the initiative, of support and care, align with those at the core of both the Social Work Program and the University as a whole.</div> <div>  </div> <div> Lira’s Legacy Scholarship has not only had a meaningful effect on campus but also on the surrounding community. Trecartin explains that social work students frequent “the broader community through internships, employment, volunteering, and ministry.” She notes that when students feel “financially, emotionally, and academically” supported, they engage in these activities with more purpose and passion.</div> <div>  </div> <div> Trecartin adds that focusing on the support of individuals with disabilities ensures that new social workers entering the field will be diverse; this allows for advocacy and empathy within both workplaces and client relationships. She shares that this representation in the social work field “enhances the quality of services and promotes a more inclusive understanding of disability and neurodiversity throughout the community.” </div> <div> <div> <u font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); box-sizing: border-box;">                    </u></div> <div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> To learn more about studying at Andrews University, please visit <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/admissions/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">Enrollment</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> If you’re interested in joining the Andrews University team, please see the list of available <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/services/hr/job_seekers/index.html" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">positions</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> We invite you to support the Andrews University mission by making a <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/services/development/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">donation</a>.</div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> Please read more about great things happening at Andrews University <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/agenda/feed/Agenda:+Campus+News/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">here</a>.<span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);"> </span></div> </div> </div> Mon, 08 Dec 2025 13:58:28 +0000 GYC-PMC Partnership Calls Youth to Follow Christ http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/68623 <p> Pioneer Memorial Church (PMC) and Andrews University hosted a special weekend event organized by Generation Youth Christ (<a href="https://gycweb.org/about-us/">GYC</a>) on Oct. 24 and 25 under the theme “Follow Me.” The weekend’s programming allowed Andrews students and visiting youth to learn about the meaning of truly following Jesus and finding their identity in Him. The invitation for GYC to come to Berrien Springs originated with Shane Anderson, Pioneer Memorial Church lead pastor, who expressed profound interest in GYC’s meaningful programming.</p> <p> “I felt like they have an inspirational value, Bible-based value, that I certainly would want at Pioneer, and by extension for the campus as well,” said Anderson. GYC has worked as an affiliated organization with the Seventh-day Adventist Church since 2002, specifically appealing to youth and young adults through its annual end-of-year conferences and other spiritual events.</p> <p> The theme “Follow Me” was chosen by GYC organizers to explore “what it truly means to walk with Jesus through life’s highs and lows,” as explained in the event’s <a href="https://pmchurch.org/events/follow-me">promotional material</a>. Anderson emphasized the significance of this message, stating, “I think the theme of following Christ, of being focused on him as the center of gravity for your life, is something that is like the opposite of all human natures since the fall.” He added, “To have a special weekend that’s focused specifically on that theme, with seminars in the afternoon to match, I think it’s a positive thing. I think it’s a great opportunity for students to be able to come to learn more about that very important topic.”</p> <p> The weekend began with a Friday night vespers program, where North Carolina-based public speaker Sebastien Braxton spoke on the topic “I’m Not Following.” Braxton discussed the necessity of discipleship and adequately following God, as modeled by Jesus’ disciples in the Gospels. He spoke again on Sabbath for the second service at PMC, with a sermon titled “It’s for You.” During the sermon, he highlighted the story of Samuel, who, prior to being a prophet, actively worked for God during his youth. Braxton called for today’s youth to bear their weight in doing spiritual work for God within the church.</p> <p> The first service at PMC on Sabbath featured speaker Sikhululekile Daco, associate editor of the Adventist Review, with her sermon titled “Mind Your Own Business.” Daco spoke about Jesus’ rebuke of Martha in the Book of Luke, where He preferred her to, in Daco’s words, “mind her own business” when criticizing her sister. Daco explained how it is better to focus on one's personal relationship with God rather than seeking to critique others.</p> <p> On Sabbath afternoon, the event closed with breakout sessions led by David Buruchara, a clinical mental health counselor based in Virginia; Chad Kreuzer, director of Anchor Point Films; Daco; and Anderson.</p> <div> <u font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); box-sizing: border-box;">                    </u></div> <div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> To learn more about studying at Andrews University, please visit <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/admissions/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">Enrollment</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> If you’re interested in joining the Andrews University team, please see the list of available <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/services/hr/job_seekers/index.html" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">positions</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> We invite you to support the Andrews University mission by making a <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/services/development/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">donation</a>.</div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> Please read more about great things happening at Andrews University <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/agenda/feed/Agenda:+Campus+News/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">here</a>.<span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);"> </span></div> </div> Mon, 08 Dec 2025 13:03:28 +0000 Reimagining Global Leadership at Andrews http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/68614 <p> In October 2025, the Andrews University Centers for Organizational Resilience and Excellence (AUCORE) and the School of Business Administration hosted two major leadership programs for Vietnam’s top business delegations. Together, the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI) Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Innovation Executive Seminar and the Petrolimex (PLX) Global Board Leadership Forum showcased how Andrews is shaping executives, organizations and industries. The programs embodied the University’s mission to extend leadership development from the classroom into the boardroom and across global economies.</p> <p> Armand Poblete, executive director of AUCORE and instructor of information systems, led the planning process. “We are building leaders who understand that technology and ethics must move together,” he shared, adding, “Innovation means nothing without integrity”—a philosophy that shaped both programs.</p> <p> The first delegation, hosted from Oct. 5–10, brought CEOs and senior leaders from across Vietnam’s private sector, including energy, banking, telecommunications, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing and finance, to Andrews University for the VCCI AI & Innovation Executive Seminar. Leaders from organizations including the Vietnam National Industry–Energy Group (PVN), Bank for Investment and Development of Vietnam (BIDV), Vietnam Posts and Telecommunications Group (VNPT), AGIMEXPHARM, Bonfiglioli Vietnam, and United Overseas Bank Vietnam spent a week discussing the future of AI-driven decision-making, digital transformation and innovation governance.</p> <p> Andrews faculty led hands-on design labs, interactive simulations and strategic dialogues, allowing executives to experience AI strategy modeling, financial resilience forecasting, immersive VR learning systems, and data-driven Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) innovation. Beyond technical skill-building, many participants described the experience as uniquely transformative because it united faith, ethics and data-driven leadership.</p> <p> Two weeks later, from Oct. 20–23, AUCORE welcomed a second delegation for the PLX Global Board Leadership Forum. Petrolimex, an energy group based in Vietnam, sent its board of directors and subsidiary chairpersons for a four-day retreat on the future of corporate governance. The forum tackled a series of difficult questions facing modern enterprises, including how boards can use AI as a tool of governance rather than a source of risk and how accountability should evolve within intelligent enterprises.</p> <p> The operations team at AUCORE ensured that both experiences were executed with professionalism and excellence. Derill Legoh, logistics lead, and Dina Kelly-Rodriguez, hospitality lead, managed travel coordination, hospitality experiences and on-site support. Participating faculty members and University Hospitality staff also demonstrated a spirit of service to the visiting international leaders.</p> <p> Andrews University has created an ecosystem that supports leadership development across a lifespan. Programs like <a href="https://thinkerbox.org">ThinkerBox</a> and the STEAM X framework prepare K–12 students to explore robotics, AI and entrepreneurship. Undergraduate and graduate programs in the School of Business Administration train future leaders to understand systems, people and service. At the highest level, AUCORE equips executives, board members and global influencers to lead with courage, clarity and ethical foresight. This continuum from early education to senior executive development has positioned Andrews as a global hub for shaping resilient, ethical and innovative leaders.</p> <p> As industries worldwide navigate the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence and digital transformation, Andrews University offers a unique vision of leadership. Through AUCORE and the School of Business Administration, the University demonstrates that ethics and analytics can share the same space, that technology can enhance empathy rather than diminish it, and that global partnerships thrive when trust and service lead the way.</p> <div> <u font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); box-sizing: border-box;">                    </u></div> <div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> To learn more about studying at Andrews University, please visit <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/admissions/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">Enrollment</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> If you’re interested in joining the Andrews University team, please see the list of available <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/services/hr/job_seekers/index.html" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">positions</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> We invite you to support the Andrews University mission by making a <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/services/development/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">donation</a>.</div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> Please read more about great things happening at Andrews University <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/agenda/feed/Agenda:+Campus+News/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">here</a>.<span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);"> </span></div> </div> Thu, 04 Dec 2025 13:28:34 +0000