Dear Friends of Andrews University

Welcome to our second annual publication, Research and Creative Scholarship at Andrews University, Summer 2011. In the following pages, you will see highlights of a few of the ongoing research projects at Andrews University. These projects range from a quantitative analysis of the effectiveness of the Seventh-day Adventist primary and secondary education system to a search for gravitational ripples in the fabric of the universe. The multi-disciplinary nature of research is evidenced in the work of Jacques Doukhan to promote greater Jewish-Christian understanding, and in the work of Øystein LaBianca to develop an integrated approach to the “little traditions” illuminated by ancient Middle Eastern archaeology.

The University is composed of inquisitive spirits and investigative minds. Therefore, a distinguishing attribute of Andrews University isthe infusion of research and creative scholarship into its academic fabric. Research and creative scholarship permeate our academic life, inform our teaching and strengthen our emphasis on generous service. Research is always a collaborative endeavor. Faculty members participate in interdisciplinary collaborations, and students are
mentored by their teachers in the intricacies of conducting research.

Siegfried H. Horn (1908–1993), my teacher, colleague and friend, set a wonderful example of what it means to be an Andrews scholar. By pioneering an interdisciplinary approach to archaeology in the Middle East, Siegfried Horn transformed the field of biblical archaeology and influenced the careers of scores of his students who continue projects he started. In recognition of Siegfried Horn’s contribution to scholarship, we have established an Excellence in Research and Creative Scholarship Award in his name. More about Siegfried Horn’s career and the first recipients of the Excellence award are presented on pages 13–15.

A recent report indicated that universities need to prepare students for careers that do not yet exist and to use technologies that have not yet been invented in order to solve problems that we are not yet aware of. At Andrews University, we believe one way to prepare students to meet this challenge is to equip them with the skills to conduct research. Students who have learned to solve problems by means of well-designed research processes will be equipped to face new challenges for the rest of their lives. I hope you enjoy this second annual presentation of some of the ongoing research programs of our faculty and students.

Cordially,

Niels-Erik Andreasen
President