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 Feb 2026 07:11:00 +0000 Wed, 11 Feb 2026 07:11:00 +0000 webmaster@andrews.edu webmaster@andrews.edu Scholarship for Theology and Education Students http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/68818 <p> The Lake Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists is once again offering its annual Scholarship for Theology and Education, providing critical financial support to students pursuing undergraduate degrees in theology or teacher education at Andrews University. Applications for the 2026–2027 academic year are open until May 20, 2026. They must be submitted through the official Lake Union <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe4Za3tBCnGw8N1p6DwdNJTJKDLWJdE1s9Ulg31Xp4Xt392tg/viewform">application form</a>.</p> <p> Rodney Palmer, chair of the Department of Religion & Biblical Languages and associate professor of religion, shares, “It’s important because there is a growing need for more pastors and educators. … The Lake Union scholarship lowers barriers so students called to the ministry of teaching and pastoring can complete their training without being derailed by finances.”</p> <p> Established to invest in the next generation of pastors, educators and faith-based leaders, the scholarship aims to strengthen churches and schools throughout the Lake Union territory. At Andrews University, its impact is felt both academically and spiritually.</p> <p> “Financial support through the Lake Union Scholarship enables future pastors and teachers to engage more fully in their coursework, mentoring relationships and hands-on practicum experiences, as well as local church and school involvement across the Union,” Palmer says. Through these relationships with Lake Union congregations and schools, students gain a clearer understanding of local needs and develop the skills and experience necessary for effective service.</p> <p> This scholarship is open to members of congregations within the Lake Union Conference who demonstrate financial need and meet Andrews University’s admission requirements. Applicants must be formally accepted into either a theology or teacher education program at Andrews University; students who change majors after acceptance become ineligible. In addition, applicants are required to submit one letter of recommendation from a high school, homeschool or academy teacher. Theology recommendations should be emailed to <a href="mailto:religion@andrews.edu">religion@andrews.edu</a>, and education recommendations should be sent to <a href="mailto:sedinfo@andrews.edu">sedinfo@andrews.edu</a> by June 15, 2026. Students must also be able to pass required background checks for field experience placements.</p> <p> Recipients are eligible to receive up to $7,500 per semester, totaling up to $15,000 annually, for a maximum of four years. Continued eligibility requires maintaining a minimum GPA of 3.0, demonstrating satisfactory professional conduct and remaining in good academic standing. A limited number of scholarships are awarded each year. Applicants are first reviewed by Andrews University, and eligible candidates are then ranked by their local conferences, with final selections made by the Lake Union Scholarship Committee.</p> <p> A key component of the scholarship is its service commitment. “While there is not a formal requirement, graduates must be willing to work for at least four years after graduation within the Lake Union territory,” Palmer explains. “This commitment makes the scholarship a true partnership, in which the church invests in students and graduates then invest their gifts back into the church’s mission. It also strengthens staffing, continuity and the long-term health of Lake Union congregations and schools.”</p> <p> Over time, this investment will build up the Lake Union region as a whole. “It creates a steady pipeline of trained pastors and teachers who know the territory and are committed to its mission,” Palmer said. “This strengthens stability, especially in areas that sometimes struggle to recruit and retain qualified and effective pastors and educators.”</p> <p> The scholarship also closely aligns with Andrews University’s mission to seek knowledge, affirm faith and change the world. Palmer notes, “By making rigorous preparation in theology and education more accessible, it equips students to translate classroom learning into faithful, effective ministry and teaching across the Lake Union.”</p> <p> For students who feel moved to study at Andrews but remain undecided, Palmer offers encouragement: “If you sense God’s call to pastoral ministry or teaching, don’t let uncertainty or finances be a barrier. The scholarship exists because the church believes your call matters and wants to help you prepare well and to serve Jesus and His people, across the Lake Union territory and beyond.” Ultimately, the Lake Union Scholarship fosters a cycle of education, service and community development that benefits both present and future generations.</p> Thu, 05 Feb 2026 15:02:54 +0000 2026 Young Artist Competition Concert http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/68796 <p> On Saturday, Feb. 7, from 7:30–9 p.m., the Andrews University Symphony Orchestra will present its annual Young Artist Competition Concert. The performance will feature the four winners of the Department of Music’s Young Artist Competition, whose performances have been evaluated on technical command, musical understanding and artistic maturity.</p> <p> The concert will begin with a performance of Ludwig van Beethoven’s “Meine Seele ist erschüttert” from “Christ on the Mount of Olives” by tenor Jonathan Clough, senior music performance and mathematical studies major. Later in the program, Clough will also perform Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s “Ich baue ganz auf deine Stärbe” from “The Abduction from the Seraglio” and Gaetano Donizetti’s “Una furtiva lagrima” from “The Elixir of Love.”</p> <p> Violinist Nikolaz Feliciano, senior music major, will present Felix Mendelssohn’s "Mvt. 1 Allegro molto appassionato" from “Violin Concerto in E minor, Op. 64.”</p> <p> Following the intermission, pianist Aiko Ayala, senior music performance major, will play “Mvt. 3 Finale: Allegro non troppo” from Clara Schumann’s “Piano Concerto in A minor, Op. 7.”</p> <p> Violinist Claire Yang, senior music and speech-language pathology and audiology major, will close the program with a performance of Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s “Mvt. 1 Allegro moderato—Moderato assai” from “Violin Concerto in D Major, Op. 35.”</p> <p> The Young Artist Competition Concert is offered to the community free of charge. Patrons will have the opportunity to support the students of the Symphony Orchestra as they raise funds for their music tour in the spring. For more information, contact the Howard Box Office at 269-471-3560.</p> Mon, 02 Feb 2026 10:04:30 +0000 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> <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, 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