Student Spotlight: Tyler Jones ’24 Strives to Be a Light

This article was originally published on apu.edu.

Tyler Jones ’24 aims to be a light in the lives of others. A senior communication management major with a psychology minor, Jones felt called to Azusa Pacific University after learning about what the school stood for as a God First institution, which matched his values. He was thrilled to find out he had received a multi-ethnic leadership (MEL) scholarship on top of his academic award and financial aid. “The scholarships lined up perfectly,” Jones said. “They made it possible for me to come to APU and I’m grateful.”

As part of the MEL program, Jones serves as a leader who encourages diversity and inclusion on campus. Members of the program meet monthly to discuss the campus climate and how campus can be inclusive. “We have tough conversations that encourage us to get out of our comfort zones,” he said. “We have a very diverse student body at APU. The MEL meetings provide a special place where students of all backgrounds can talk about our lives and develop strong relationships with each other.”

Through the MEL program, Jones chose to serve in the Office of Campus Life’s Alpha program, serving as an Alpha leader as a sophomore and an Alpha coordinator as a junior. “I quickly fell in love with it. Nothing is more rewarding than serving as a mentor for new students and walking alongside them as they start their college journey,” he said. One of Jones’ favorite Alpha leader memories is when he and his roommate, Jesse Watson, invited both of their alpha groups to their campus apartment for an ice cream sundae party. “It sounds simple, but just getting to know the new students and sharing laughs over ice cream was special.” Jones highly recommends students apply for the Alpha program to build leadership skills and develop meaningful relationships.

“Most of my best friends at APU came from the Alpha program. It’s been a huge part of my journey at APU.”

In his work as a leader in the Alpha and MEL programs, Jones uses much of what he learns in his major courses. Two of his favorite classes, leadership communication and organizational and professional communication, have equipped him with the skills needed to communicate effectively and lead teams successfully. He is especially appreciative of his mentor, Courtney W. Davis, PhD, associate professor. “Dr. Davis’ classes require a lot of critical thinking. She pushes you to go beyond the surface level,” Jones said. “She has challenged me and helped me grow. Her mentorship has been an essential part of my education at APU.”

After graduation, Jones aspires to become a firefighter. He feels that the leadership and communication skills he’s developed at APU will benefit him tremendously as a firefighter when he leads teams on rescue missions. Jones was inspired by his uncle, who served as a battalion chief of a fire department. He described one of their conversations that helped him realize his calling.

“It really stuck with me, being able to help others and be there for them, protect them, be their light on their darkest day, that’s definitely something I wish to pursue,” he said.

Being the light for others stems from Jones’ faith. “My faith is what inspires me, what makes me who I am, and how I base my actions,” he said. Growing up, Jones was taught to always treat others with grace, respect, and love because you never know what they’ve experienced or what they're currently going through. “I believe that God has called me to be the light in others lives and I try to answer that call every day.”

Student Spotlight: J.J. Navarette Encourages Belonging

This article was originally published on apu.edu.

J.J. Navarette ’24 loves helping students find belonging at Azusa Pacific University. As a transfer student, Navarette struggled at first to find her place and her people at APU, but that all changed during her second semester on campus. “I knew college was supposed to be about creating meaningful experiences and forming lasting friendships. I wanted that,” she said. “When I joined the Alpha program last fall, I found what I was looking for. I found my purpose.”

Navarette served as an Alpha leader, mentoring a group of transfer students as they started their APU journeys. Some days this would look like doing homework together on Cougar Walk or in the Duke Commons, while other days included going to basketball games and transfer events together. “The people in my Alpha group are my really good friends now,” she said. “Being a part of the Alpha program has truly made APU feel like home.” Navarette now serves as an Alpha coordinator, helping train Alpha leaders as they mentor their groups as she did.

One of Navarette’s favorite parts about being an Alpha leader is getting opportunities to serve. Prior to the start of the school year, she went with dozens of other students in the program to serve in downtown Los Angeles for a week. Each day, they would serve homeless individuals at The Dream Center and Union Rescue Mission. “Helping people at homeless shelters really touched my heart,” she said. “It made me realize how much I take for granted everyday, from having meals to eat to having a roof over my head.” Navarette enjoyed interacting with those she served, connecting with them and learning their stories. She aimed to bring a smile to their faces each day.

“That experience helped me understand how we all come from the same God and we need to treat everyone with kindness, to love our neighbors as the Bible instructs. It made me want to find more opportunities to give back and serve.”

Navarette’s journey to APU was a bit circuitous. After graduating from South Hills High School in West Covina, she wasn’t sure what career she wanted to pursue. She decided to start her collegiate journey at Citrus College, but transferred after one year. “I wasn’t as on top of my studies as I should have been. It was hard to feel motivated because I hadn’t found what I wanted to study yet,” she said. Navarette transferred to Mt. San Antonio College and discovered her desire to pursue a career in healthcare. She completed nearly all of her general education requirements at Mt. SAC before deciding to apply to APU. “I was a bit nervous. I didn’t know if I would get accepted, but I had a transfer admin who walked me step by step through the process and waived my application fee,” she said. “He even called me before the acceptance letter and email arrived because he wanted to congratulate me personally. I loved that intentionality.”

Navarette continued to experience intentional support from APU faculty and staff. In her Christian Life, Faith, Faith, and Ministry course, professor Paul Shrier, PhD, shared his testimony with the class at the beginning of the semester and said he is a big believer in second chances. For the first time in her collegiate experience, Navarette felt comfortable having one-on-one conversations with a professor. “Professor Shrier set the pace for me in my biblical studies classes,” Navarette said. “I learned a lot from him and applied it to my life.” In her kinesiology major, Navarette said professor Sue Hebel, EdD, ATC, made an impact. Navarette had been going through a tough time and Hebel noticed she looked a bit down in class.

“She took the time to check in with me, asking how she could pray for me and help me. That was significant. It meant a lot to see how she cared about me.”

Navarette has one more year left in her kinesiology program. She hopes to continue her education at APU by completing a graduate program in nursing. “I want to help others and I feel like God has called me to be a nurse,” she said. “My dream is to become a nurse practitioner and open my own faith-based practice.”

Navarette’s faith is key to her identity. She grew up in a Christian household and went to church every week with her grandparents. At APU, she has continued to grow in her faith. “Going to chapel three times a week was an adjustment at first, but I’ve really enjoyed it. It helps me keep my faith a priority and I feel closer to God,” Navarette said. “And my theology and biblical studies classes have helped me understand the Bible better. My relationship with God continues to grow every day.”

Global Engagement Series: Emily Durbin’s Experience in Turkey

This article was originally published on APU’s website.

After Emily Durbin ’23 graduated in May with a bachelor’s in business management, she embarked on one more opportunity to serve alongside her Azusa Pacific University friends on a three-week Global Engagement trip to Turkey.

Why did you choose Turkey?

We originally planned to go to Spain and Morocco, but something happened with the host there, so we were redirected. Turkey was an amazing experience, and I believe that change in location was from God.

Where did you travel to in Turkey?

We started in the capitol, Ankara. Then we went south to Antakya. In the Bible, it was called Antioch. We also went to Cappadocia, then to Istanbul and back to Ankara before we flew home.

How did you serve on the trip?

We visited the site of the big earthquake that happened a few months ago. The devastation there was really bad. We worked at a kitchen on an assembly line, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

What were the biggest highlights of the trip?

The people we served were so kind and a few of them invited us to their homes and gave us tea and Turkish delight. We’d talk for a long time through our translator because most of the people didn’t speak English.

We worked with an organization that serves refugees. Many were Iranian. At the end of our time, we hosted a testimony night and they shared their stories of coming to Turkey, how they met Jesus, and what they dream of doing when they leave Turkey. It was so powerful to hear their stories. We also taught them English, which was a cool experience.

I really enjoyed seeing some of the beautiful areas of Turkey. We visited mosques, including the famous Blue Mosque in Istanbul.

In Cappadocia, we stayed in a cave hotel. We’d wake up at 5:30 a.m., look out of the cave, and watch the sunrise with hundreds of hot air balloons flying up into the sky. It was one of the coolest things I’ve ever seen.

What was the dynamic like on your team?

We all grew a lot closer over the course of the trip. Every night we’d get ice cream and do a debrief about our day. It was interesting hearing each person’s perceptions of Turkey. I’m from Colorado and it reminded me of home. Another girl said it reminded her of Korea and someone else thought it was like Ecuador. It was special that the Lord made this place remind us all of the places we loved. I loved serving as a leader of the team alongside my friend Deborah. The Lord blessed us with an amazing team.

What was a big takeaway from the trip?

Building relationships with people was a big one. The Turkish people were so kind. They would give so much, whether it was tea or food or rides wherever we needed. I learned how to love people more selflessly from their example.

How did you grow personally and spiritually?

Personally, I grew in my understanding of people. It was a very relational ministry. I also grew in my understanding of missions and how God can use you in the little things.

Spiritually, I learned to trust God more. There were a lot of days on the trip where we didn’t have much planned and we had to figure things out as we went. Looking back on the trip, trusting God was really transformational for me.

Would you recommend global engagement trips to other students? What advice would you give them?

I would 100 percent recommend the experience. This was my second global engagement trip. My first one was to Thailand last year. These trips inspired me to want to do missionary work long term. They’re literally life changing.

My biggest advice would be to have an open mind and heart. Don’t set expectations based on what you hear from friends' experiences. Each trip is unique, so be open to how God is purposeful with your journey.

Where God places you and what He has you do on those trips will be transformational. If you’re open to what God has for you, it could change your life like it did mine.

One of our four cornerstones is service. What does service mean to you?

Service is not about you. Some of the work we were doing wasn’t the most exciting, like keeping watch over earthquake relief supplies, but it was what the people there asked us to do. Service is being aware of what others need and doing what you can to fulfill those needs.

All APU undergraduate students serve 120 hours over the course of four years. There are many opportunities during the school year and the summer to serve both locally and globally. Learn more about global engagement trips here or by emailing globalengagement@apu.edu.

Global Engagement Series: Emily Guerrero’s Experience in Romania'

This article was originally published on APU’s website.

Emily Guerrero ’24, a senior journalism major, served on a Global Engagement trip this summer in Romania. She and her team of four Azusa Pacific University students traveled to the capitol of Bucharest for nine days in May.

Why did you choose Romania for your global engagement trip?

I really wanted to work with refugees. My mom, my grandma, and my aunt are all refugees from Egypt. Because of the war in Ukraine, thousands of refugees have fled to Romania. I went there to provide support in any way I could.

What did you enjoy most about Romania?

Romanian culture really emphasizes community, helping one another and doing things together. The church we served at in Bucharest was very big on giving your time to others.

How did you serve on the trip?

For a couple of days, we worked at a church, serving and cooking meals. Next, we went to a warehouse where they kept supplies for convoys and helped organize materials. Finally, we went to a camp to clean and set things up for incoming refugees.

What were the biggest highlights of the trip?

Some of the refugees were housed at the church where we served. We spent time with them, sharing a meal and listening to their stories of how they ended up in Romania. You hear about it on the news, but meeting those affected by the war holds much more weight.

I learned a lot on the trip, including how to serve selflessly. For some things, like cleaning bathrooms, I focused not on what I wanted to do, but what the church needed help with most. I enjoyed getting to know the staff at the church. They were so welcoming and kind to us.

What was your team dynamic like?

We didn’t really know each other prior to the trip. We had met a few times, but we really bonded with each other once we got to Bucharest. Because it was a small group, we grew close. There were a lot of funny moments. We also built relationships with our hosts from the Greater Europe Mission.

How did you see God moving on the trip?

Going out of the country definitely broadened my view of God. I saw how God doesn’t stop seeking after people. The refugees had been displaced and had almost no material possessions, but they had God’s love in the church. They grasped onto the hope He provided.

How did you grow personally and spiritually on the trip?

Personally, I learned to be more grateful for what I have. In the U.S., I grew up in a bit of a bubble. We sometimes complain about things that don’t matter. I learned not to complain as much, to be content with what I have, and be grateful for the opportunities I’ve been given. Spiritually, I learned to put aside my own desires, serving with God’s love to help others with their needs.

What was your biggest takeaway from the trip?

I want to take what I learned in Romania and continue to apply it in the U.S. Serving globally was an awesome opportunity, so I’m finding ways to serve locally in my own community. I have neighbors all around me with needs and I want to focus on helping them.

Would you recommend Global Engagement trips to other students? What advice would you give them?

Yes! Going to another country to see their lifestyle really broadened my worldview. It was a great opportunity to see what it’s like to serve in a different culture.

Whatever trip you go on, choose it based on the mission, not the location of the trip. A destination like Greece or France might have been fun, but those missions didn’t align with what I felt called to do. Each trip has a specific purpose. Pray about what mission is right for you.

One of our four cornerstones is service. What does service mean to you?

To me, service is investing your time and energy into others. This doesn’t only mean physically working to help them, but also building relationships with them. Serving is about putting yourself second, focusing on how you can help someone else.

All APU undergraduate students serve 120 hours over the course of four years. There are many opportunities during the school year and the summer to serve both locally and globally. Learn more about global engagement trips here or by emailing globalengagement@apu.edu.

Global Engagement Series: Kekai Kaaumoana-Cummings' Experience in Italy

This article was originally published on APU’s website.

Kekai Kaʻaumoana-Cummings ’25 is a junior kinesiology major from Hawaii. Like hundreds of Azusa Pacific University students, Kaʻaumoana-Cummings chose to spend part of his summer serving on a Global Engagement trip. He and five teammates traveled to Rome for two weeks to share the Gospel.

Out of all the Global Engagement trips, why did you choose Italy?

I wanted to serve in Rome because it’s very important in Jesus’ story and the history of the church. There are many non-believers there and I wanted to share God’s love with them.

What were your favorite parts of visiting Italy?

I loved learning more about Roman history. There were these huge old churches that were jaw dropping. Pictures don’t do justice to the buildings with their stunning designs and art. I really enjoyed the Italian food too, the best pasta and gelato I’ve ever had.

I loved seeing the cultural differences. The biggest one is pacing. Italian time and American time aren’t the same. In America, we’re so busy and everything is so fast paced. When you’re that busy, how do you stop and feel God? In Italy, I learned the importance of being patient and quiet to spend time with God.

What were some big highlights from the trip?

We would split up and go out in teams of three and talk to the people the Lord directed us to, following His lead. My team and I were out on a prayer walk one day when we came upon a man from the Middle East. We talked to him, but my interpreter was struggling to understand his English, so we switched to texting. We were able to do Christ’s work and he was led to God as a result of that conversation. That was amazing.

On one prayer walk, an Italian woman came up to us and introduced us to another deaf person. I was fortunate that I could communicate with him because I knew International Sign Language. It was just me, him, and God. I thought there would be many obstacles for me on the trip, but God kept breaking down all these barriers. I’m so grateful that I was able to share my story and by talking about my faith, to start planting a seed.

What was the dynamic like on your team?

Our team was special. Our leaders were amazing and I have so many fond memories with all of them. We would joke around a lot. They were very supportive of me. We’d eat together and spend a lot of time together during the day. It truly felt like a family. How did you grow personally and spiritually?

Before the trip, I was nervous about how people would look at me, a deaf American traveling around with an interpreter. I feel braver and bolder after the trip, stronger in my faith. I’m prepared to share my testimony with confidence. I feel more in tune with the Holy Spirit.

Would you recommend Global Engagement trips to other students? What advice would you give them?

I’ve already decided to go on another Global Engagement trip next year. I would highly recommend them–take advantage of the time with God and bond with your team. You don’t know what’s outside of your world until you experience it. I experienced the power of God, working on me and developing my confidence. If you go, ask Him to be with you, to show you what you need to see.

At APU, our cornerstones are Christ, Scholarship, Community, and Service. What does service mean to you?

Service is represented by Christ in you. Many people in the world don’t know Christ, but if they see you serving, that builds a bridge for them to want to get to know Him. Service is a clear representation of your heart. This trip made me want to seek more opportunities to serve.

Is there anything else you would like to share about your experience?

My team treated me with so much love. If a person has a disability, let them on your team. They may be mentally or physically challenged, but they can help you the same way you help them. The self esteem that builds in a disabled person is amazing.

All APU undergraduate students serve 120 hours over the course of four years. There are many opportunities during the school year and during the summer to serve both locally and globally. Learn more about global engagement trips here or by emailing globalengagement@apu.edu.

Note: Kaʻaumoana-Cummings is a deaf/hard-of-hearing student. An interpreter was provided for this interview by the Office of Accessibility and Disability Resources.

Global Engagement Series: Anthony Chow’s Experience in Guatemala

This article was originally published on APU’s website.

Anthony Chow ’24, a junior nursing major with a minor in philosophical apologetics, served on a Global Engagement trip this summer in Guatemala. He and his team of 11 Azusa Pacific University students visited Guatemala in May and served in a variety of ways. Read on to learn about Chow’s experience:

Why did you choose Guatemala for your global engagement trip?

Guatemala spoke to me in part because of the trip’s two-week length. I went on a week-long global engagement trip to Mexico last year, and I wanted to experience a longer stay. The trip was split into a week in the capitol, Guatemala City, and a week in the rural area of Pacaya, getting a good mix of the culture there.

How did you serve on the trip?

We did a lot of different things. The first week in Guatemala City, we spent most of the time preparing a mission house for the summer. We organized a lot of their storage and painted rooms. The nonprofit, called Clubhouse, planned to host a Vacation Bible School for kids there later in the summer. In Guatemala, many children are victims of the drug and human trafficking trades. Boys and girls in school are in a safe environment. Clubhouse sought to provide a place where kids were secure and could get an education.

In Pacaya, we prepared two more houses, getting them ready for missionaries who were going to come later in the summer. We had a nice balance of ministry and spending time with the moms and kids in Pacaya. I loved playing soccer with the kids and teaching them to make friendship bracelets.

Since several of us were nursing students, we did some health assessments and check ups for the kids. Then we organized their pharmacy to help them prepare for the summer.

What were a few highlights of the trip?

A big one was spending time with our host, Pablo. He was an orphan who was adopted by Mike, the founder of Clubhouse. Pablo was really involved with us in our work. I remember when we were cleaning out one of the storage rooms in Guatemala City, I found a comic book in Spanish and said it would be cool to read it. Then we went to Pacaya for a week, and when we returned to the city to fly home, Pablo said he had something for me, and handed me the book. I’m not much of a crier, but that made me cry.

He came from nothing and didn’t have much to give, but that book was such a heartfelt gift. Through the gift, he taught me to give more than you take.

Another highlight was going on home visits. We’d step into someone’s home, get to know them, and give them some food. That was a pivotal experience for me because it showed me how much of a contrast there was between the rich and the poor. So many of these families have so little, and yet they’re still so happy.

What was the dynamic like on your team?

My group had a lot of fun. There was always banter. We’d listen to music as we worked during the day. At night, we’d write encouraging notes to each other. I found myself getting to know the group through meals and one-on-one conversations. I love learning other people’s stories. We all came from different walks of life, but we experienced Guatemala together, which was really meaningful.

How did you see God move on the trip?

Every night, I journaled and reflected on my day about how I saw God move. In Pacaya, the girls and boys would just run up to you and give you a hug. They didn’t even know you, but they were excited to meet new people. I saw God taking care of these kids and their families in so many different ways. I knew some of them struggled to put food on the table, but they weren’t worried because God always provided. That was so inspiring.

How did you grow personally and spiritually?

I learned the importance of taking time for myself. I realized there’s a time to be with other people—community is important—but there’s also a time to be by yourself, to sit in stillness with God. God is in both of those places, in the people around you and the conversations you have with the team, and he’s just as much there for you when you’re alone praying in your room.

Would you recommend Global Engagement trips to other students? What advice would you give them?

Definitely! When people say mission trips are a life changing experience, it’s true. There are eye opening things you would never see in the U.S., things that will stick with you long after you come back. I would recommend these trips as a way to see the world, to learn how life is outside of the U.S. It’s important to see what God is doing in other places. I would advise anyone considering one of these trips to be clear about knowing your why. Is it just to have fun? Or is it to see God more clearly?

The intention is so important. God looks at your heart. He cares about your why. If you get that calling, if it’s something God’s telling you to step into, then you should do it with resounding yes and put everything you have into it. Don’t come in with expectations. Come in with an open heart and let God show you his plan.

Service is one of APU’s four cornerstones. What does service mean to you?

Most people think of mission trips as spreading the Gospel, but it’s really about sharing God’s love. It doesn’t always mean bold evangelism and sharing the Gospel verbally. Sometimes actions speak louder than words. For us, playing soccer with the kids in Guatemala, painting walls, organizing storage spaces—these were all simple actions with the intention of showing God’s love. That’s service. We reflect Christ through our actions.

All APU undergraduate students serve 120 hours over the course of four years. There are many opportunities during the school year and during the summer to serve both locally and globally. Learn more about global engagement trips here or by emailing globalengagement@apu.edu.

Student Spotlight: Sarah Potts Shares God’s Love Through Community

This article was originally published on APU’s website.

Sarah Potts ’24 loves cultivating community as a resident advisor (RA) in Azusa Pacific’s University Village. While being away from home can be challenging for students, Potts strives to provide a welcoming environment for her residents so they feel seen and known. She gets to know each resident, learning their names and birthdays at the beginning of the semester and she sends them encouraging texts throughout the year. Potts also hosts monthly breakfasts where students can drop in and enjoy a free meal while catching up on life. “Pancakes with Potts is always a lot of fun. That’s how I became friends with many of my residents,” she said.

“Serving with hospitality and cultivating community in my court is a really fun way to do ministry.”

As a Christian ministries major, Potts is passionate about sharing her faith. She served as a children’s ministry intern at her church, Hillside Community Church in Rancho Cucamonga, for the past three years. “I got to preach these little sermonettes sharing Biblical stories. When I first started, I was nervous because I felt like I was learning alongside the kids. It really resonated with my childlike faith and helped me grow.” Potts means this literally.

Potts didn’t grow up in a Christian household. Until she graduated from high school, she had never considered going to church. “I didn’t think church was where I belonged. I hadn’t seen God in my life,” Potts said. After declining several invitations from her friend Jayden Zwerner ’20 to go to young adults ministry at Hillside, Potts finally decided to give it a try. Although she was nervous at first, she quickly became interested in the pastor’s sermons and decided to continue attending services. “I was a history major at Chaffey at the time and I loved hearing the Bible stories and drawing the bridge between academia and biblical history,” she said. “After a month of going to young adult ministry and asking the pastor questions, I realized I was starting to believe.” One night, the pastor delivered a sermon about Saul turning to Paul and the redemption God offers. “I felt like he was talking directly to me. He did an altar call and I stood up and accepted God. After that, I dove head first into ministry. The joy of the Lord has changed me. I would not be who I am without my faith and the opportunity to worship God.”

Becoming a Christian led Potts to decide she wanted to transfer from Chaffey College to a faith based institution. Since she had many friends from church who went to APU, it seemed like a natural fit and when she visited campus, she knew God was leading her here. At APU, Potts changed majors and fell in love with learning more about the Bible in an intimate class setting. “I really liked my classes at Chaffey at the time I was in them, but now I see how big those classes were. A couple courses had more than 100 students,” she said. “At APU, the classes are much smaller and I’ve built great relationships with my professors. I feel really cared for by all of them because of their intentionality.” Potts said professors like Justin Marc Smith, PhD, and Frederico A. Roth, PhD, have challenged her to grow her critical thinking skills while teaching her how to understand Scripture. Potts enjoys sharing coffee with them while having deep conversations about faith and life. “They’re both phenomenal. They really take the time to get to know you and help you achieve your full potential.”

As Potts heads into her senior year, she’s still figuring out what she wants to do after graduation. She had planned on becoming a youth pastor for a time, and even served at a Hume Lake camp where she was told by multiple pastors that they would love to have her join their church’s youth ministry. Potts is also considering working in young adult ministry.

“It’s such an important area that’s often forgotten," she said. "Without young adults' ministry, I wouldn’t have become a believer. A lot of churches don’t have young adults’ ministry even though that’s a time people tend to lose their faith. I see a deep need for that and I’ve felt the Lord putting it on my heart strongly.”

For now, Potts is focused on enjoying her senior year. Balancing being an RA with working in the Student Services Center while being a full-time student isn’t easy, but Potts loves both her jobs and her classes. As a first generation college student, she doesn’t take anything for granted. “When I started college, I thought everyone does this and it’s not a big deal. But I remembered how college wasn’t in the cards for my parents and how some people would give anything to get an education like this,” she said. “I constantly remind myself what a privilege it is to get a college education.”

The Sword Project: Blessing Athletes with Personalized Bibles

This article was originally published on APU’s website.

Carrie Webber, Azusa Pacific University’s head softball coach, was on a mission. She walked onto the field with a stack of thick leatherbound books in her arms, knowing that this moment meant more than any win ever would. These were no ordinary books; in fact, they were copies of the bestselling, most read book of all time. Titled the Sword Project, APU’s Athletics Department gives personalized study Bibles to all incoming athletes.

For Webber, the inspiration for the Sword Project came from former player Becca Jewett ’21. While Jewett was an upper-division student at APU, she went into her own pocket to buy Bibles for the freshmen on the team. “Becca would have dinner with them and present them with a Bible with their name on it,” Webber said. “It was awesome watching the impact that had. It definitely meant a lot to them.” Webber began to notice that many incoming athletes didn’t have Bibles. “I think that one of the best things that we can possibly do for our athletes is to put a Bible in their hands,” she said.

As Webber began to look for the right study Bibles, she encountered a problem—the Bibles weren’t cheap, and the cost added up quickly with the large number of athletes. This problem was solved thanks to a generous donation through a foundation by Jamen Wurm, CPA, MS ’98, a member of APU’s 1998 NAIA national-championship-winning football team. Wurm, a partner at Goehner Accountancy, is a big believer in giving back to the program that helped shape him into who he is today. When APU announced the closure of the football program in 2020, he asked former football coach Bo Beatty ’94 if he had any ideas about where the funds he had donated could go. Beatty told him about the work Webber does and got them in contact. After talking with Webber, Wurm knew he wanted to be a part of the Sword Project. “I’m very excited to know that this is going toward such a great cause,” Wurm said. “It is a blessing to be a part of possibly providing a student-athlete with their first Bible ever.”

The Sword Project’s name comes from a hand-engraved sword on the cover of each Bible, referring to the armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18). Inside the sword, Webber can inscribe up to 12 characters, which athletes choose. Many ask for their names or the Scriptural location of their favorite Bible verse. Webber has received lots of encouraging feedback from the athletes. “One girl had wanted a Bible for years, but cost was always an issue. She was so excited to receive one,” Webber said. “Another girl had an old hand-me-down Bible. She said it was hard for her to open it, for many reasons, but this Bible is her own and has given her the newfound motivation to open it and experience God’s Word.”

APU athletes have a unique opportunity to grow in their faith, according to athletic director Gary Pine ’84, who conducted a survey on their spiritual growth. “While Bible classes and chapel are an integral part of APU’s Christian education, the resounding response from athletes was that they saw the most spiritual growth from meaningful conversations with their teammates and coaches,” Pine said. “The beauty of athletics is that when you’re on a team, you develop a bond that allows for vulnerability. People feel comfortable asking deep questions that they might not feel comfortable asking elsewhere.”

In academic classes, APU faculty find ways to integrate their faith with the subject material. On athletic teams, coaches model a Christian lifestyle and walk alongside their players. “We want to impact our athletes beyond the four years they’re here. Nothing can impact your life greater than the Word of God,” Pine said.

“When our student-athletes walk across that commencement stage, they’re no longer a student and no longer an athlete. We hope to pour into them enough so they know their identity is not in academics or athletics, rather it is in Christ. Now they’ll have their own Bibles, and it’s a book they’ll continue to use long after they graduate.”

Each coach has their own ways they pour into their players—some do Bible studies, others have team movie nights featuring Christian productions such as The Chosen, and others pray with their team before and after practices. All APU coaches are available to talk to their players when deep questions arise. “I had a player call me recently and say, ‘Coach, I know God’s real, and I don’t know much more, but I really want to know. Can you sit down with me and tell me more?’” said Webber. “I told her I absolutely could. I live for those moments. Wins are pretty cool, but the joy from those moments lasts way longer. I don’t always get to be there for that moment when they say yes to their faith and yes to God. But while I might not get to see that moment, I definitely notice how they’ve been transformed at APU. That’s very special.”

The Freshmen Honors Experience: Transforming Together

This article was originally published on APU’s website.

On a sweltering Tuesday in August, 12 strangers walked into a small classroom and sat across from each other in a circle. The room was quiet with uncertainty as the students nervously pulled out their copy of The Prince by Niccoló Machiavelli. The group of freshmen in Azusa Pacific University’s Honors College were about to participate in their first colloquy, a student driven discussion of great texts throughout history. As David Weeks, PhD, dean of the Honors College, led the conversation, the freshmen began sharing their thoughts on Machiavelli’s views of leadership. Although they didn’t know it at the time, they were cultivating the seeds that would later sprout into what one student called her “new family for this season of life.”

Over the course of their first semester, the students read an astonishing amount of great works from authors such as Aristotle, Mencius, Erasmus, Martin Luther King, Jr., Sun Zi, William Shakespeare, and several books of the Bible. After reflecting on all he read, Heath Koranda ’26 decided Erasmus’ The Education of a Christian Prince was the most influential for him. “I loved it because he established Christ as the ultimate standard that every leader should aspire to, but he also added supplementary wisdom from human thinkers,” he said. “The uniting of those two makes for an amazing leadership guide.” While Abigail Tam ’26 appreciated Erasmus, she contended that King’s Strength to Love was the most impactful. “MLK’s wisdom was so powerful,” Tam said. “It convicted me to truly follow Jesus’ example and live as a witness of Christ.” Nadia Ibarra ’26 expressed a similar sentiment, “God has shown Himself to me through what I learned in the Honors College. Being able to see His work was a life changing experience, and it affirmed my faith in Him.”

While academic growth is an integral part of honors, building a community outside the classroom is also a fundamental component of the students’ learning experience. Mia Guillen ’26 shared that “listening to others rather than relying solely on myself made it a lot easier to tackle difficult readings, such as Aristotle.” Tam affirmed the value of learning from her peers. “The relationships I built gave me the freedom to express and debate different ideas and beliefs,” she said. “It has been so refreshing to discuss polarizing subjects in a friendly manner.” Koranda compared the friends he made in honors to the friendships of virtue described in Aristotle’s Nicomachean Ethics. “Friends of virtue sharpen and want the best for each other. I've definitely felt that here,” he said. “I love deep and real conversations. Having these purposeful discussions with other like-minded people is such an amazing opportunity.”

Ultimately the Honors College prepares students to continue developing their intellect, character, and faith for the common good. “My dream, God willing, is to become a surgeon. I’d like to open up a hospital in a disadvantaged area—there are some places where the nearest hospital is more than 50 miles away,” Rami Ezzeddine ’26 shared. “Honors College has prepared me for that career path because in health care, you’re going to be helping a lot of people from different backgrounds.” Modern culture can tend to be self-orbiting, but the honors curriculum encourages students to consider a variety of perspectives in order to impact the lives of others. Koranda recalled Erasmus’ compelling notion of a “leader that takes up burdens to ensure the safety and wellbeing of others even at the expense of their own comfort. This idea is so powerful to me.”

Just four months after that first colloquy, the students gathered together for their last class of the semester. Though they sat in the same seats, they approached their final conversation in a much different way. As the freshmen devoured donuts and Crumbl Cookies, they recollected the formative parts of the semester. The students shed tears of joy and their bouts of laughter echoed down the hall as they shared the impact they had on each other. “Growing up, I was homeschooled. You were the friends I always wanted to have,” Tam said. “Thank you all for giving me the best school experience of my life.” Koranda seconded Tam’s sentiments, describing how much he enjoyed being with his classmates in the honors setting. “I never knew this kind of life was possible, an immersion in great people, great books, and great conversation,” he said. “It is my life now, and I truly cannot believe it. I am so happy that I am living that life at APU.” Koranda said he is sad that this semester in Weeks’ colloquy is over, but he is excited for the next seven semesters in honors. “This journey is one that I am absolutely sure will transform me.”

Prospective Students Find Belonging at APU

This article was originally published on APU’s website.

On a rainy Saturday in October, more than 180 students from Kern High School District (KHSD) filed onto six school buses and headed down the I-5. After a two-hour journey, they arrived on Azusa Pacific University’s campus and were welcomed into the Upper Turner Campus Center (UTCC) by a team of students, faculty, and staff. Led by Bryan Bowens, EdD ’14, the students made the trip as part of Project BEST (Black Excellence in Scholarship and Teaching). “I am a product of Project BEST and the Black Student Union from KHSD,” Bowens said. “I wanted these students to experience APU in the same way I experienced APU, to consider it as a viable option for college because it could change their lives in the same way it changed mine.”

As the high schoolers enjoyed breakfast, Keith Hall, EdD, vice president of student belonging and chief diversity officer, took the stage to deliver a keynote address. “I wanted to give students a vision of our hope as Christian higher education leaders and professionals for prospective and current students to thrive academically, socially, and spiritually—to consider ways they can acquire clarity on their calling and steward the knowledge, personal agency, influence, and faith to carry out a God-given purpose,” Hall said. Hall also spoke about the value of education and the choice students have to prioritize the educational experience in high school and college to open pathways to personal development, critical thought, social engagement, and an invaluable avenue to offer a meaningful contribution and make a difference in the world.

Following Hall’s keynote address was a panel discussion themed “Black Excellence in Higher Education,” featuring Michelle R. Cox, PhD, director of the School Counseling Program; LaShan Epperson, DBA, assistant professor in the School of Business and Management; Ta’Tyana Leonard, MA, campus pastor and associate director of the Office of Corporate Worship; Candice R. Williams, PhD, chair of the Department of Criminal Justice; Xavier Whitaker, EdD, dean of students; and Paul Dennis, executive director of Campus Safety. “They each shared their story of how they obtained their education and the obstacles they overcame in doing so. It was really powerful and their stories definitely resonated with the Kern students,” said Tina Sprague, enrollment partnerships manager, who helped put the event together.

The students then split into groups. One group heard from a panel of student club leaders, while the other group heard advice from the Gen1 Scholars Program. The students enjoyed a catered lunch from Chick-fil-a and talked with current APU students about their experiences. After lunch, the students headed to West Campus where many went on tours and participated in a workshop led by Bowens, while others worked with admissions representatives in an “on the spot” event. A total of 25 students filled out applications and were admitted to APU that same day.

These students benefit from APU’s Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with KHSD, a partnership that helps students fulfill their A-G requirements to be ready for college. With the MOU, Kern students are guaranteed to receive an academic scholarship from APU as well as an additional $1,000 scholarship to support their education if they maintain a GPA of 2.5 or higher. “We’ve created a pathway for students to be able to afford a degree in higher education through our MOU with KHSD,” Sprague said. “When you go through higher education, more doors open for you. I have a passion for all students to have that opportunity, to be able to obtain a degree that will open a world of possibilities.”

The day concluded with a keynote speech from Antoine Hawkins, PhD, superintendent of the Evergreen Elementary School District in San Jose. Hawkins and Bowens are both members of Alpha Phi Alpha, the oldest African American fraternity in the U.S. which develops leaders, promotes brotherhood, and academic excellence. Hawkins emphasized the importance of focusing in high school to the students, that college is within reach if they buckle down. Bowens seconded this message, encouraging his students in Project BEST to do everything they could now to prepare for college. “Higher education enhances one’s life, providing different perspectives of cultures and lifestyles and equipping students with the tools to think critically for themselves,” he said. “I want my students to know that they can do all things, including getting a degree, through Christ who strengthens them.”

Bowens recollected his time at APU fondly, talking about how he felt welcomed at APU and was inspired by seeing other leaders of color in the Educational Leadership Department. “I was around people that looked like me and shared the same lived life experiences as me. We motivated and pushed each other,” he said. “I had a strong sense of belonging and knew I was supposed to be here. I am who I am today because of how I was transformed as a leader at APU.” Bowens advises all of his students in Project BEST to apply to two colleges: Cal State Bakersfield (their local university) and APU. He said that his students were treated so well that he has already started planning another trip for at least 120 more Project BEST students to visit APU in the spring. “My students felt that same strong sense of belonging on APU’s campus. They loved being welcomed so warmly and I truly hope some of them matriculate to APU after graduation.”