Andrews University Agenda

Andrews University Agenda http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/ News and Events at Andrews University en-us Copyright 2026, Andrews University Sat, 14 Mar 2026 06:11:00 +0000 Sat, 14 Mar 2026 06:11:00 +0000 webmaster@andrews.edu webmaster@andrews.edu J.N. Andrews Service: Ana Flores http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/68928 <div> We celebrate Ana Flores as the recipient of the J.N. Andrews Service Award and recognize her 10 years of dedicated service to Andrews University. This tribute reflects the voices and experiences of both former and current coworkers who have had the privilege of working alongside her.</div> <div>  </div> <div> Ana genuinely loves people, especially her students, and that care is evident in the way they respond to her. Students feel welcomed, respected and valued in her presence. Her ability to connect with others and foster a sense of belonging is remarkable.</div> <div>  </div> <div> Colleagues have observed that while perspectives on work may differ—some rooted in service and others in structure—Ana’s collaborative spirit consistently creates balance and strengthens the team. She listens thoughtfully and works toward solutions that benefit the greater good.</div> <div>  </div> <div> Her resilience and faith are deeply inspiring. Ana reminds those around her that their work extends beyond operations and reflects a ministry of serving God’s children.</div> <div>  </div> <div> Ana’s professionalism, kindness and initiative have strengthened the campus community. She leads with warmth, supports her team wholeheartedly and enhances environments like the Terrace Café through creativity and care.</div> <div>  </div> <div> Congratulations to Ana Flores on this well-deserved recognition and lasting impact.</div> Mon, 02 Mar 2026 15:55:55 +0000 Horn Excellence in Research: Denis Kaiser http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/68927 <p> Denis Kaiser accepted an invitation to join the seminary faculty in 2017 and is currently an associate professor of church history. In addition to his teaching schedule, his responsibilities include being codirector of the Ellen G. White and Adventist Studies Graduate Certificate Program; editor for Research and Publications at the Center for Adventist Research; and annotation project editor for the E.G. White unpublished letters and manuscripts.</p> <p> Denis has been exceptional in research, writing and publishing. He published “Trust and Doubt: Perceptions of Divine Inspiration in Seventh-day Adventist History,” 32 book chapters, 18 refereed journal articles, and 16 dictionary or encyclopedia articles. He has presented 43 scholarly or professional papers, and he has served as an editorial referee and copy editor. Various entities have benefited from his expertise in translating and interpreting theological publications; as a visiting and guest lecturer, he has presented at local and international denominational and non-Seventh-day Adventist venues.</p> <p> He is currently working on “Ellen G. White and the Godhead: Personal Journey,” “Theological Legacy,” and a historical introduction for “The Hiram Edson Manuscript Fragment.”</p> <p> Congratulations, Denis, on receiving this prestigious award which validates your outstanding research and writing.</p> Mon, 02 Mar 2026 15:54:08 +0000 Horn Excellence in Research: Ingrid Weiss Slikkers http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/68926 <p> Ingrid Slikkers is an associate professor of social work at Andrews University and the executive director of the International Center for Trauma Education & Care. Since joining the School of Social Work in 2016, she has helped strengthen a trauma-informed approach across the curriculum and has supported students and interns in practicum settings with skill, care and consistency.</p> <p> Students and colleagues describe Ingrid as an exceptional teacher and mentor who brings real-world clinical insight into the classroom and writing, modeling trauma-informed practice. One former student shared: “Ingrid has been an excellent professor, a phenomenal mentor, an exemplary social worker, a wonderful supervisor, a joy to work with. … She has always kept her students’ best interests foremost and has modeled a trauma-informed approach to all her interactions.”</p> <p> Grounded in deep commitment to culturally responsive care, her leadership and service continue to shape students, strengthen colleagues and advance trauma-informed education at the University and beyond. Thank you, Ingrid, for sharing your talents, your research excellence and your collaborative spirit with Andrews University and the College of Arts & Sciences.</p> Mon, 02 Mar 2026 15:50:08 +0000 Excellence in Service: Janine Carlos http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/68925 <p> For the last several years, Janine has served as administrative assistant for two seminary departments: Church History and Theology & Christian Philosophy. Her dedication, professionalism and excellence in service have been exemplary. She consistently performs her responsibilities with care and efficiency, ensuring that daily operations run smoothly.</p> <p> Beyond her administrative duties, Janine has made significant contributions to seminary life through her coordination of departmental events, receptions and tours. These are occasions that strengthen community and leave lasting impressions on visitors and colleagues alike. Her reliability, positive attitude and willingness to go above and beyond have made a genuine difference.</p> <p> All are blessed by her cheerful outlook, infectious laugh, and faith and trust in God’s leading. Her colleagues have deeply appreciated her willingness to assist wherever a last-minute need arises. Also, her artistic talents are admired by all.</p> <p> In addition to serving in the seminary, Janine has been a dedicated member of the Adventist Connect team for many years, serving faithfully in a wide range of roles. Janine has consistently brought warmth, compassion, empathy and genuine care to those she serves, giving her full attention and heart to each interaction.</p> <p> Janine, this recognition is richly deserved, and we are grateful for your outstanding contribution and faithful service.</p> Mon, 02 Mar 2026 15:46:40 +0000 Excellence in Service: Raquel Mendoza-Illingworth http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/68924 <div> Raquel has served as employment manager for the past four years. In her role, she has the unique opportunity to interact with our employees from their first to their last days with the organization.</div> <div>  </div> <div> Raquel has done her best to serve all those that come through her area—both in Employment and when she previously worked in Benefits. Sometimes, this has meant spending long hours with other team members to ensure each employee’s information is in the system and that they have access to what they need.</div> <div>  </div> <div> A colleague shares, “Raquel has a Christ-like character [and a] caring attitude. … She has exceptional expertise in her field. I have known Raquel for the past eight years, and she reflects the love of Jesus Christ in all her ways.”</div> <div>  </div> <div> “Raquel is very diligent and follows through on everything she says she will do. She is kind and always smiling,” a team member says.</div> <div>  </div> <div> Another colleague notes, “Raquel takes the pressure and stress of her job with grace. She has never become irritable or complained. She always has a cheerful word for everyone and is a bright spot in our department.”</div> <div>  </div> <div> Raquel, thank you for your dedication to living Andrews University’s mission and values in all that you do.</div> Mon, 02 Mar 2026 15:25:43 +0000 Excellence in Service: Rachel Keele http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/68923 <p> Rachel Keele’s passion for wellness, coupled with her expertise in fitness coaching, is truly contagious. She began her service in 2011 at the Andrews University Press, before serving in Guest and Convention Services and as associate dean in Lamson Hall. Her impact as an inspirational witness to our larger community as well as our own campus has been spectacular.</p> <p> A team member shares, “Rachel is one of the most caring and empowering supervisors that I have ever worked for. … I can truly say that I love my job and look forward to coming to work because of her leadership.”</p> <p> Another notes, “Rachel has been of extraordinary support to me, especially during difficult moments following an accident. She prayed and helped me, almost like family, even before I arrived at Andrews.”</p> <p> “She is a true Christian leader who deeply cares about the well-being and spiritual growth of her employees and students,” says another colleague.</p> <p> Yet another affirms, “Rachel sees strength so clearly in others and her passion shines through everything she does, creating spaces where people feel safe, valued and genuinely happy to show up.”</p> <p> Rachel, we are deeply grateful to God and to you for the tremendous blessing you are to Andrews University.</p> Mon, 02 Mar 2026 15:20:01 +0000 Augsburger Excellence in Teaching: Nadia Nosworthy http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/68922 <div> Nadia Nosworthy embodies the very spirit of the Daniel Augsburger Excellence in Teaching Award through her unwavering commitment to students, scholarship and the science of human development. She has served as a University professor since 2013 and has made significant contributions to research on student learning and early numeracy in K–3 education.</div> <div>  </div> <div> Her teaching is firmly grounded in both theory and lived experience. Prior to entering academia, Nadia was an elementary school teacher—an experience that continues to shape her student-centered approach. Across courses in human development, cognitive psychology and special education, her teaching is described as intellectually challenging yet exceptionally supportive. Student evaluations praise her detailed explanations, clear organization and ability to help classes master complex material while feeling encouraged and respected.</div> <div>  </div> <div> Nadia’s research reflects the same commitment to meaningful impact. As cocreator of the Numerary Screener, she has advanced the global understanding of foundational numerical skills. Her scholarship bridges cognitive theory and educational practice, enriching classrooms across cultures.</div> <div>  </div> <div> Above all, Nadia teaches in a way that makes students think about thinking—and enjoy it. One might say of this beloved Canadian developmental psychologist: “Her theories are well-tested, her data is reliable and—true to Canada—even her research is politely impactful.” Congratulations to a most deserving recipient.</div> Mon, 02 Mar 2026 15:16:20 +0000 Excellence in Teaching (Adjunct): Elizabeth Helm http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/68921 <p> Elizabeth Helm exemplifies the heart of the Excellence in Teaching Award through her enduring dedication to students, learning and the profession of school psychology. Her career reflects a sustained commitment to serving children, families and future practitioners. As an early childhood school psychologist, she brings a wealth of practical expertise into the classroom. Her work as a summer camp director for youth with developmental disabilities further enriches her teaching.</p> <p> In addition to serving as a practicum and internship field supervisor, Elizabeth frequently presents to professional groups in her areas of specialization. As a long-standing adjunct faculty member, she teaches courses in early childhood issues and assessment, educational assessment, and crisis intervention. Her continued practice in the field allows her to seamlessly bridge theory and practice.</p> <p> Students consistently praise her clarity, generosity and mentorship, sharing how her detailed explanations, hands-on practice and unwavering support have built their confidence and shaped their professional growth. Consistently described as a kind and supportive professor, Elizabeth creates learning environments rooted in empathy, respect and encouragement. As the saying goes, the school psychologist’s superpower includes the art of not simply solving problems but quietly helping people believe they can solve them too. She is truly deserving of this award.</p> Mon, 02 Mar 2026 15:12:57 +0000