Andrews University Agenda

Andrews University Agenda http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/ News and Events at Andrews University en-us Copyright 2026, Andrews University Wed, 11 Mar 2026 17:19:00 +0000 Wed, 11 Mar 2026 17:19:00 +0000 webmaster@andrews.edu webmaster@andrews.edu Andrews Facilitates Global Leadership Development http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/68968 In December 2025, faculty from Andrews University facilitated two executive leadership programs for international cohorts. Sung Kwon, associate professor of leadership and director of the MA Leadership in Social Innovation Program, served as coordinator for both initiatives. He shares, “The distinctive program offered by Andrews University … integrates leadership development with a strong emphasis on social innovation. This approach not only equips leaders with the skills to navigate complex organizational landscapes but also inspires them to become architects of meaningful change in their communities and beyond.” From Dec. 1–3, the School of Business Administration and School of Leadership at Andrews University collaboratively hosted the Nigerian Executive Leadership Program. The participants were cosponsored by HumanRe Consultancy Services Limited, a Nigeria-based human resources and management consulting firm. The two organizations coordinated travel for select participants from Nigeria to Andrews University for the leadership program. During the training, a variety of topics, including emotional intelligence in leadership and innovative growth strategies for the workplace, were presented by Jay Brand, professor of leadership and organizational studies; Dustin Young, assistant professor of social work; Alayne Thorpe, dean of the College of Education & International Services and dean of graduate education; Kimberly Pichot, dean of the College of Professions, Gustavo Gregorutti, professor of leadership and higher education; and Kwon. John Omoyele Fagbemi, managing partner of HumanRe Consultancy Services Limited, notes the impact of the program. “We were overwhelmed by the mammoth of advanced transformative knowledge imparted, [the] resourceful professors’ presentations, [and the] ambience [of the] environment,” he shares. Shortly after this initiative took place, faculty from Andrews University traveled to Maputo, Mozambique, to assist with a secondary leadership program for Electricidade de Moçambique (EDM). EDM is Mozambique’s state-owned national electric utility, responsible for power generation and transmission. From Dec. 8–10, the program was held at both the EDM training center and headquarters of EDM. The event featured presentations from Pardon Mwansa, adjunct professor in the School of Leadership, Gregorutti and Kwon on team building, organizational development and servant leadership. Assa Fumo, director of EDM Academy, shares how the program impacted the organization, noting, “The collaboration provided our board members and directors with valuable insights into servant and transformational leadership, strategic decision-making and business model, adapted to our organizational context.” Fumo is confident that the partnership between EDM and Andrews University will continue in the future, recognizing that collaboration and imparted knowledge leads to growth. Kwon served as coordinator and presenter for both programs. He reflects, “Both entities … independently approached the School of Leadership seeking a collaborative partnership to enhance the leadership development of their constituents. Notably, although they are non-Adventist institutions, they expressed a clear desire for a leadership development program rooted in Christian values.” He adds, “Although the two organizations are not connected in any structural way, their simultaneous interest reflects what we believe to be the guidance of the Holy Spirit,” noting that the experience “affirms that leadership development can serve as a means of participating in God’s mission.” Andrews University’s School of Leadership is distinct in both its qualifications and the opportunities it offers. For more information, visit the school’s <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/ceis/leadership_school/index.html">web page</a>. Wed, 11 Mar 2026 14:35:43 +0000 Stephen Zork Endowed Chair of Choral Music http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/68961 Andrews University has created the Stephen Zork Endowed Chair of Choral Music with the goal of securing transformative music education for future generations. $1.52 million of the $2 million dollar goal has been raised toward establishing a permanent position for a choral conductor and faculty member in the Department of Music. The endowment honors Stephen Zork, director of choral studies, as he prepares to retire after nearly 35 years of dedicated service. “As a Seventh-day Adventist institution, choral music education, pedagogy and vocal performance are some of the most profound, biblically-based functions within the schools of the prophets,” Zork shares. “Music education is interdisciplinary and cross-generational … it brings contrasting cultures, social groups and emotional temperaments together in an environment where they can be secure while experiencing the art of vulnerability through disciplined expression.” The Department of Music at Andrews provides a vibrant musical and learning environment in which students excel artistically and academically, grow in character and spirituality, and engage in acts of service. The department offers several undergraduate programs in composition, education and performance, as well as multiple graduate programs. It also supports numerous ensembles, including the Symphony Orchestra, University Singers & Chorale, Wind Symphony and more. “For any college campus, music is always a cultural touchstone,” says Max Keller, chair of the Department of Music. “Because of the music degrees offered at Andrews, we are also a touchstone for the broader Adventist community.” The department has had a widespread impact on the Adventist music community, with graduates going on to teach and work around the globe. For 34 years, Zork has been a mentor, educator and role model for thousands of these students. Together, he and his wife, Susan, assistant professor emerita of religion, have ministered to generations of college students. “Stephen Zork has fostered numerous leaders that serve throughout the world in Adventist academies and congregations,” Charles Reid, associate professor of music, affirms. “Choral music is a meeting point, but the welcoming hospitality and the trusting ear of the Zorks has been a cherished cornerstone for the Andrews student body.” One such student, Jahaziel Gutierrez Escobar, was inspired to pursue graduate studies in conducting when he saw Zork as a guest conductor at the University of Montemorelos’ Alumni Weekend. “I got quickly captivated by the way he taught and conducted the ensemble. That was when I learned more about the choir conducting program at Andrews University, directed by Professor Zork, and began dreaming of pursuing my master’s degree.” Violetta Matsiuk, sophomore music education student, shares that Zork was instrumental in bringing her to Andrews on a full tuition scholarship. “I came here to study in the choral program because of how good it is and because of what Professor Zork provides for the students and what he is able to teach,” she notes. “I feel like the endowed chair gives me the assurance that the program can be secure, as well as my major.” The Stephen Zork Endowed Chair of Choral Music will be the first permanent chair in the music department. “It will guarantee that there is always someone that is the choral conductor here. It solidifies the program,” Keller shares. “It is a huge statement for the University to put that kind of effort into the choral program. For it to be named after Stephen Zork—it’s a huge legacy honor for him. His impact is going to be felt for as long as this institution is here.” A search to fill the new position will occur as soon as the chair has been fully funded. Gutierrez Escobar reflects, “When an influential leader retires, students and the community expect to see someone with the same or greater professionalism, artistry, enthusiasm and love for teaching as the retiring leader.” Echoing this, Matsiuk adds, “We’re hoping that the next person who comes is definitely led by God into it. We’re looking for someone who would be able to continue what Professor Zork was doing here for so many years, but to find their own interpretation—to bring some other great new things into the program.” As the department prepares for the endowment to be completed, it continues to expand its reach. In the past year, a new community music school has been established, through which Andrews students have the opportunity to teach local children. Andrews also recently partnered with other Adventist universities to create the Adventist Youth Music Association, which conducts solo performance adjudication and ensemble music-making experiences. The department is also running several festival experiences for high school students, including an upcoming event for wind symphony and piano. Internally, the department continues to see positive change. “We’ve actually been growing in terms of the number of majors and in terms of the size of our ensembles. It’s really exciting,” Keller says. “Our students, when they graduate, are competing with the top state and private institutions out there. I feel very confident in the level of instruction that they are given.” Affirming this sentiment, Reid shares, “Our students really are our first consideration as our mission remains: to live and grow together in community with Christ, to join our Creator in creating magnificent art, and to engage and cultivate our God-given talent and intellect for His purposes.” This emphasis on community and ministry can be felt throughout the University. “Andrews University is the only Seventh-day Adventist higher education institution in the world to offer a master’s degree in choir conducting. Getting my family and me into a Christian environment and having an excellent academic experience were imperative needs,” Gutierrez Escobar says. “That is something that only Andrews University could offer us, and that’s why we decided to come here.” Those interested in contributing to the Stephen Zork Endowed Chair of Choral Music can find more information on the Andrews <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/give/zork/?solc=SZECCMMUS&fbclid=IwY2xjawQKkxJleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBicmlkETJPNkpSNlpHUjYxTnlrVmJvc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHikbCeXVfRWOkHIYJ4SVipMXz5L642T_SeJ5lGqxBn1zudqgYUHuhC23rsU__aem_MzvC94m2-qdaSSihP_Qm3Q">website</a>. A special <a href="https://xpc.andrews.edu/agenda/68727">Celebration Reunion Choir Concert</a> in honor of Zork will be held from April 24–25 in the Howard Performing Arts Center. As he looks to the future of the department, Zork hopes that his colleagues will continue to be supported, recognized and upheld as they carry out the mission of Christ at Andrews. He says, “Regardless of their instrument, my colleagues train each of their students to the highest artistic and refined level. But moreover, they give each of their students a voice to change the world for the better.”  Mon, 09 Mar 2026 13:53:44 +0000 Passion Play to Be Held at Andrews University http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/68960 After nearly a decade, Andrews University will once again host the Passion Play, an engaging walk-through experience that portrays the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The event, which is being organized by Pioneer Memorial Church, will take place on April 4, 2026, across indoor and outdoor campus locations. Originally launched in 2003 under the leadership of Pastor Ronald Whitehead, the Passion Play quickly became a cherished campus tradition, engaging students, local churches and community volunteers. The production ran annually until 2016 and was known for its immersive approach, walking audiences through live scenes such as the marketplace, Triumphal Entry, Last Supper, Gethsemane, the trial before Pilate, the Crucifixion and the Resurrection. This year, the Passion Play returns under the direction of alumnus Leo Aguilera, who attended the 2016 production as a teenager. “Bringing the Passion Play back after nearly a decade has been deeply emotional for many of us,” says Esteban Grajales, marketing director for the 2026 production. “That full-circle moment carries deep meaning. Many local churches have expressed genuine excitement, partnering with us and mentoring our team. There is a strong sense that this is not just a production, but a community-wide effort.” Attendees can look forward to enhanced production elements, including refreshed sets and costumes; refined staging, sound and lighting; and a new opening scene developed in collaboration with One Mustard Seed, a ministry specializing in immersive biblical storytelling. “The new opening scene places the Passion story within the broader biblical timeline in a powerful way,” Grajales says. “It adds depth and context that audiences have not experienced before.” Volunteers remain central to the production’s success. More than 400 individuals are contributing in roles ranging from acting and special effects to media, hospitality and logistics. The nonprofit production is made possible through strong community support, with volunteers contributing their time, creativity and effort. Student involvement also plays a major role. Graduate and undergraduate students are participating as actors, extras and behind-the-scenes contributors. “Watching students step into roles and take ownership has been inspiring,” Grajales says. Accessibility is a priority, and the experience will accommodate most individuals using wheelchairs or other assistive devices, with a vehicle pick-up location near the Hospitality Tent close to the final scene. Flash photography and recreational wheeled transportation are not permitted during the production. Parents are encouraged to prepare children for the Crucifixion scenes, and viewer discretion is advised for the bright lights and sudden sounds in the Resurrection scene. “The Passion Play is more than a performance,” Grajales says. “This brings the story of Jesus to life in an immersive way, creating an enjoyable experience for individuals and families alike. We hope attendees leave spiritually inspired and renewed, feeling that they were part of something meaningful. Ultimately, we hope they leave glad they came.” Rotations of the Passion Play will begin every 30 minutes from 10 a.m.–3:30 p.m. Each rotation will last approximately two hours, and guests are asked to arrive 30 minutes before their scheduled start time. Attendance is free; however, reservations are required to help manage group sizes. Please <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/passion-play-tickets-1983462081479">reserve spots</a> for immediate family members only. Mon, 09 Mar 2026 11:49:15 +0000 Wind Symphony Presents Vespers Concert http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/68952 On Friday, March 6, at 7:30 p.m. in the Howard Performing Arts Center, the Andrews University Wind Symphony will present its annual vespers concert, titled “Sing Praise!” This year, the Wind Symphony, conducted by Denisse Santos-Gooden, will be joined by the Andrews University Singers, directed by Stephen Zork, and the Berrien Springs Spanish Seventh-day Adventist Church praise team, coordinated by Myrna Araujo-Constantine, creating a powerful shared music experience. <<< Read the full story at the South Bend Tribune <a href="https://www.southbendtribune.com/things-to-do/events/?_evDiscoveryPath=/event/3508928-andrews-university-wind-symphony-presents-vespers-concert">site</a> and Herald-Palladium <a href="https://www.heraldpalladium.com/features/andrews-university-wind-symphony-to-perform-annual-vespers-concert/article_b8fda51e-46e7-509b-956c-16319788b906.html">site</a> >>> Thu, 05 Mar 2026 14:41:27 +0000 French Cafe http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/68939 French café is happening again this semester. It is a time where we can eat and share in French at the cafeteria (close to the piano). This event is open to students, faculty, staff and community members. The dates we have chosen are March 11 & 24 and April 1, 7, 15 & 21. Meal tickets are provided, if needed. Please RSVP to find out if you are eligible.   Thu, 05 Mar 2026 14:30:28 +0000 Celebrate National Poetry Month http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/68930 In celebration of National Poetry Month this April, the James White Library will host a poetry reading event on April 16, 2026, from 4:30–6 p.m., and we warmly invite you to join us. Poetry lovers and composers are encouraged to submit and share their original work with the campus community. If you simply want to read a poem that appeals to you, you're welcome! "Poetry is when an emotion has found its thought and the thought has found words." Robert Frost Join us for an afternoon filled with captivating poetry readings, perfect for all who appreciate the art of poetry. Thu, 05 Mar 2026 14:27:35 +0000 Employee Benefits Fair and Town Hall http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/68884 Don’t miss your final opportunity to earn a wellness credit at this year’s Benefits Fair and Town Hall! This is your last chance to check that box if you still need it. Even if you don’t, attend to learn valuable insights about your benefits, new resources and ways to make the most of your coverage. Stop by, get informed, ask questions, and take charge of your health and savings—all in one place. We can’t wait to see you there! Thu, 05 Mar 2026 14:25:02 +0000 Adulting 101 Series: Opportunities Through MCA http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/68652 Did you know that Andrews University students have VIP access to local and regional job and internship opportunities? This is made possible through a partnership with the Michigan Colleges Alliance (MCA). Attend this session to learn more about MCA and how you can access these opportunities. This session will be presented on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, from 11:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m. in Chan Shun Hall, Room 108. It is open to all majors, including graduate students. Cocurricular credit will be provided. A hybrid option is available for distance learning students only by contacting <a href="mailto:career@andrews.edu">career@andrews.edu</a>. Thu, 05 Mar 2026 14:24:32 +0000