Andrews University Agenda

Andrews University Agenda http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/ News and Events at Andrews University en-us Copyright 2026, Andrews University Sat, 17 Oct 2026 08:21:00 +0000 Sat, 17 Oct 2026 08:21:00 +0000 webmaster@andrews.edu webmaster@andrews.edu A Focus on Health and Connection http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/69595 Throughout her career, Deborah “Deby” Andvik has been guided by two core biblical messages: “And whatever your task, do it heartily, as serving the Lord and not men” (Colossians 3:23) and “Therefore, whatever you do, do all to the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31). Deby first came to Andrews in the fall of 1975 as a student, transferring from Kalamazoo College for her junior year after adopting the Seventh-day Adventist faith. During her senior year she met Alf Andvik, a student from Norway studying in the School of Technology. Deby and Alf were married in 1978—one week after Deby graduated with a Bachelor of Science in elementary education—and moved to Norway, where they lived for 22 years. During that time, Deby worked as an office assistant for her parents-in-law’s physical therapy clinics and later as an elementary school teacher at two Adventist schools. Additionally, both Deby and Alf worked with The Heartgood Foundation, a self-supporting lifestyle center and medical ministry organization. In 2000, when it was time for their children, Marlena and Jeffrey, to attend college, the Andviks decided to move back to Berrien Springs, reflecting that they both “had been so blessed and impacted by studying at Andrews.” With a heart for education, Deby applied to work at Andrews and was hired as the administrative assistant for the nursing department. After nine months, she became assistant to the dean in the College of Arts & Sciences. Eventually, when the School of Health Professions—later the College of Health & Human Services (CHHS)—became its own entity, she moved with it. The experience expanded her professional skills while further strengthening her belief in Adventism and its health message. “I became an Adventist because I was looking for a denomination that emphasized the importance of letting Christ be Lord of every area of our life—including health,” Deby says. “Since becoming an Adventist, our health message has been an integral part of my life, so this transition to support the health professions was a natural fit for me.” In her roles, Deby fostered meaningful connections across the University. She enjoyed working on campus-wide planning committees and engaged in an expanding network of responsibilities over the years. In particular, she enjoyed helping create the PULSE magazine, which showcased the projects, achievements and testimonies of CHHS students, faculty and alumni. She was also honored to serve on the Caring Connection Committee, helping employees in need during challenging times. Some highlights of her time at Andrews included involvement in international study tours, office and staff worships, and the European and Nordic student clubs. She appreciated the worldwide nature of the church represented at Andrews and the opportunities to provide support to students on their academic journeys, relating especially to international students adjusting to life in a new nation. “Over the years, I was able to help assist students needing extra resources,” she shares. “Often, they would be so appreciative and bring cards or gifts to express how much it meant to them. This really warmed my heart knowing that I’d made a difference.” In retirement, Deby plans to continue living in Berrien Springs, dedicating more of her time to gardening and connecting with friends. She will also serve as volunteer coordinator at FARM STEW, an international Christian ministry that trains and equips families with the skills they need to overcome hunger, disease and poverty so they can experience hope and abundant life offered by Jesus (John 10:10). Deby has always been motivated to “be a positive witness for the Lord; work to improve processes and efficiency; and lead by example—servant leadership,” and affirms, “I’m just changing from one mission field to another.” Fri, 14 Aug 2026 11:08:08 +0000 Building Lifetime Relationships http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/69594 When Elynda Bedney arrived at Andrews University in July 1987, she expected to support students through their financial journeys. What she did not anticipate was the profound impact those students—and the Andrews community—would have on her own life. Elynda began her Andrews career as an account supervisor in Student Finance after moving to Michigan with her husband, Donald, who had enrolled at the Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary. Just over two years later, Elynda was promoted to associate director of Student Finance, a position she held from 1989 to 2005. During that time, she earned a Master of Science in Administration from the Andrews School of Business. Taking one class per quarter over five years, she completed her degree in 1998. That same year, Elynda helped lead the merger of Student Finance and Financial Aid into Student Financial Services (SFS). She later played an important role in guiding the department through the University’s move from the quarter system to the semester system and the shift from paper registration to electronic financial clearance. In 2005, Elynda was named director of SFS, serving for 12 years. In 2017, she was appointed assistant vice president of SFS, a position she held until her retirement. Looking back, Elynda says one of the most rewarding aspects of her career was the Christian environment at Andrews. “Andrews was what you made it to be,” she reflects. “Whatever you were looking for here, you could find it—God, education, multicultural experiences, friends, lots of churches to choose from, and more.” Over the decades, her focus remained constant: helping students. “What I appreciated the most was working with students and being able to help find solutions for their problems regarding finances, life issues and spiritual challenges,” she says. Elynda particularly valued learning about students’ diverse cultures and made it a point to correctly learn their names—a gesture reflecting her belief that every student deserves to be seen, known and respected. Relationships were equally important among colleagues. “I was able to develop a relationship with each faculty and staff member in my circle of influence and discuss diplomatically many issues that impacted our work here at Andrews,” she explains. “I am still connected with a lot of these colleagues.” A commitment to excellence has guided Elynda throughout her life. “My parents always taught me that there was nothing I could not do,” she says. “I took that literally and applied it to my daily work.” This mindset was strengthened by her faith and a favorite Bible verse, Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Elynda says, “Working at Andrews taught me to pray more and ask God for what I wanted, big or small. I also learned there are more ways to accomplish what needs to be done than the traditional way. There is room for creativity.” Her contributions earned significant recognition over the years, including the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Michigan Student Financial Aid Association annual conference. She also received a commendation from former Andrews President Andrea Luxton recognizing the accomplishments of SFS under Elynda’s leadership. Elynda continues to serve Andrews University on a part-time basis in Financial Administration while looking forward to spending winters in Florida and a more flexible schedule. Reflecting on nearly four decades of service, Elynda says, “It has been a pleasure working here for the majority of my career, and I have no regrets. I would like to thank all the administrators that I worked with over the years, and I have appreciated being able to build lifetime relationships here at Andrews University.” Fri, 14 Aug 2026 10:55:57 +0000 Transforming Adventist Education http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/69593 In 2011, a merger between Griggs University/Griggs International Academy and Andrews University brought Alayne Thorpe to Berrien Springs, Michigan. It was the beginning of an impactful career at Andrews that allowed her to touch lives around the world. Alayne first served at Andrews University as founding dean of the School of Distance Education & International Partnerships. Later, she also took on the role of dean of the School of Graduate Studies. Then, when the School of Distance Education & International Partnerships and the School of Education were merged into the College of Education & International Services (CEIS), she was named dean of CEIS and served as associate provost of the School of Graduate Studies. Prior to her time at Andrews, Alayne worked as the academic head/chief academic officer of Griggs University and Griggs International Academy. She enjoyed the work, though she had never previously envisioned herself as a proponent of distance education. She says, “I began life as a classroom teacher in a public school and thought that the classroom was the only place where education could occur.” However, when she began work in Seventh-day Adventist education, her perspective started to change. “I realized two things,” Alayne shares. “The first was that the most spiritually transformative experiences that people could have were happening in Adventist classrooms throughout the world. The second was that there were many people not able to benefit from an Adventist classroom.” She recognized that because many students lack access to a local Adventist school, the only way to provide them with a transformative Adventist education was to make it portable—and her roles at Andrews allowed numerous opportunities to further that work. Alayne has found it rewarding to watch Andrews—with its supportive faculty, staff and administrators—expand its reach to students in Berrien Springs and beyond. She looks forward to even more growth with the recent launch of the Global Campus and is confident that its leaders will continue their important work. She has also treasured her time with graduate programs. “We have truly dedicated graduate students who have made great sacrifices to attend Andrews University. I am humbled by their enthusiasm, by their commitment to helping build a better Church, a better school, a better health care system,” she notes. Alayne’s favorite passage of Scripture is John 21:15–17, in which Jesus shows Peter not only that He forgives him but that He trusts Peter with the highest responsibility a follower of Jesus can have: to feed His sheep. She says, “That is what we do every day at Andrews University. We feed Jesus’ flock—the precious people He has brought to our campus, whether physical or virtual.” In retirement, Alayne will be working part-time for the North American Division of Seventh-day Adventists, advocating for higher education, and aims to continue finding ways to support Andrews University. She affirms, “I have spent my career trying to make transformative experiences available to as many people as possible. It has been a pleasure to work collaboratively across the Andrews University campus to expand the University’s reach around the world.” Fri, 14 Aug 2026 10:53:46 +0000 A Life of Service http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/69592 Anna Piskozub began her journey at Andrews University on May 30, 1995, in the School of Education. She came to Andrews from Chicago, Illinois, where she spent many years working at two large law firms. Her first role at Andrews was as executive secretary for graduate programs under the leadership of Jerome Thayer. With his guidance, Anna was introduced to the complex and meaningful world of graduate education. “I quickly learned about how strong systems, careful processes and thoughtful support are essential in helping students succeed,” she shares. “It was also during this time that I realized I wanted to continue growing personally and professionally, so I became a student myself.” Over the years, Anna pursued undergraduate coursework at Andrews University and completed her remaining studies at Atlantic Union College, earning a bachelor’s degree in business administration in 2008. Later, following a change in direction that reflected her growing interest in health and well-being, she completed a master’s degree in nutrition and wellness from Andrews in 2013. Much of Anna’s professional life was devoted to supporting graduate students. She worked behind the scenes to track academic progress, build systems to help students stay on course, and collaborate closely with faculty and administrators. Her attention to detail, organizational skill and genuine care for students allowed her to grow into roles of increasing responsibility, including graduate programs service coordinator in the School of Education and, later, accreditation, assessment and graduate record officer in the College of Education & International Services. Some of the highlights of Anna’s career were her involvement in major institutional initiatives, including the Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation process. She took great pride in contributing to work that strengthened programs and ensured excellence in graduate education. “Equally meaningful to me were the relationships I built along the way—with colleagues who shared my dedication and with students whose success made every challenge worthwhile,” she says. Anna also shared her commitment to healthy living with the campus. She served as a fitness instructor and mat Pilates instructor in the Lamson Health Club from 2000–2018. In 2017, she began work as an adjunct professor to teach Pilates for the School of Population Health, Nutrition & Wellness, a role she continues presently in addition to teaching the 6 a.m. classes for the Andreasen Center for Wellness. In May 2024, Anna transitioned to the Global Leadership Institute, serving as operations program coordinator. Although the role came with a steep learning curve, it proved to be a joyful and meaningful final chapter in her career. Working in a mission-centered environment focused on developing church leaders allowed her to combine her professional skills with her deep faith. “I am especially grateful for the mentorship, encouragement and support I received during that time,” she reflects. Throughout her career, Anna has been guided by her faith as a committed Seventh-day Adventist Christian. She shares, “I firmly believe that God placed me in each role not only to challenge me but also to keep Him at the center of my work and encourage me to serve others with compassion, humility and integrity.” As Anna retires, she does so with a full and grateful heart. She reflects with deep appreciation on the love, respect and support she received from faculty, students, graduate assistants and colleagues over the years. “Andrews University has been far more than a workplace—it has been a community, a ministry and a home,” she says. “The friendships formed here and the lives touched will remain with me always.” Fri, 14 Aug 2026 10:51:52 +0000 Employees Recognized for Mentorship http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/69591 The annual Recognition & Awards Ceremony took place on Thursday, April 23. The event recognized student scholarship and honors as well as exemplary leadership in student employment and extracurricular activities. The program also included two awards that celebrate faculty and staff for their mentorship and impact on student learning. The Teacher of the Year Award, selected through a poll of the undergraduate student body by the Andrews University Student Association (AUSA), recognizes an individual who goes beyond the classroom, serving as a mentor and leaving a lasting impact on students’ lives. This year’s recipient, Patricia Fitting, was honored for her service within the Division of Campus & Student Life as AUSA Senate mentor, Title IX deputy coordinator and assistant dean for cocurricular education. Alyssa Caruthers, outgoing AUSA president, noted Fitting’s “great joy and efficiency” in her work and said, “I personally am grateful to have served in AUSA positions under her mentorship. Though she will be moving away from Andrews to new opportunities, the impact she has had on Student Life will last long after she is gone.” The Undergraduate Research Mentor Award was given to Jay Johnson, professor of physics and engineering. Established by the College of Arts & Sciences and the Office of Research & Creative Scholarship, the award recognizes faculty mentors for their excellence in mentoring undergraduate research students. Johnson works with multiple students each year on space weather research projects funded by the National Science Foundation and National Aeronautics and Space Administration. Over the past five years, his student research team has produced five co-authored journal articles and 70 scientific presentations. Students described his high standards and patience, noting his ability to make complex concepts understandable while encouraging independent research and critical thinking. One student shared that Johnson’s guidance led them to present research at the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory, an opportunity they “never would have dreamed of reaching” on their own. Fri, 14 Aug 2026 10:48:35 +0000 President’s Medallion Recipient http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/69590 During the spring 2026 graduation weekend, Alayne Thorpe was honored with the President’s Medallion at the Commencement service for the College of Education & International Services and Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary. Thorpe completed her BA in English in 1977 and MA in English in 1980 at the University of Maryland. She went on to complete a fellowship on Anglo-Irish poetry at the University of Cambridge before receiving her PhD in modern British literature from the University of Maryland in 1987. She began her career as a teacher at Montgomery Blair High School, then went on to work for Home Study International. Beginning in 1986, she became an advisory teacher and curriculum committee member at Takoma Academy, and from 1988–2010, she simultaneously taught as an adjunct professor for Columbia Union College (now Washington Adventist University) and the University of Maryland. Thorpe joined Griggs University/Griggs International Academy in 1989, where she served as senior vice president for education for 22 years. In 2011, she became president of Griggs International Academy and dean of the School of Distance Education & International Partnerships at Andrews University. In 2017, Thorpe took on the additional role of dean, and later associate provost, of the School of Graduate Studies. After a reorganization within the University’s schools and colleges, she also became dean of the newly formed College of Education & International Services in 2019. Thorpe has committed her career to improving the educational experiences of students around the world. Her legacy of innovation, mentorship and wisdom exemplifies a deep commitment to education that transcends borders. Fri, 14 Aug 2026 10:46:42 +0000 Professor Publishes New Book http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/69589 Kevin Burton, director of the Center for Adventist Research and assistant professor of church history, has published a new book through New York University Press. “Apocalyptic Abolitionism: How Millennialists Helped Abolish Slavery and Reform America” examines the relationship between apocalyptic faith and social reform in nineteenth-century America. The book challenges a long-standing assumption among historians that people who strongly emphasized the soon return of Christ tended to withdraw from social and political engagement. “Apocalypticism can actually fuel social reform,” Burton says. “It can make people more active for social justice causes rather than make them withdraw.” Burton spent nearly a decade researching thousands of historical figures and sources across more than 90 archives and numerous digital collections. His work reveals previously overlooked connections between Adventist pioneers and key abolitionist efforts, including campaigns that helped shape national conversations about slavery before the American Civil War. “This is the first detailed history of Adventism in the anti-slavery movement,” Burton shares. “The Millerites were not simply involved in the anti-slavery movement in America, but they shaped the entire thing.” Burton adds that the project also offers an opportunity for reflection. “If we just have great beliefs in theology, that really doesn’t matter that much,” he says. “If it doesn’t change our actions and make us better people in the here and now, then we’re not really preparing to meet God.” Burton hopes the book will inspire readers to see how deeply faith and action were connected in early Adventism—and how that legacy continues to challenge believers today. Fri, 14 Aug 2026 10:41:29 +0000 Lim Receives Hall of Fame Award http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/69394 This year, Janine Lim, dean of the Global Campus at Andrews University, received the 2026 Hall of Fame Higher Education award from the United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA). USDLA awards are given out annually to acknowledge organizations and individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary achievements using online learning techniques, innovation and video technologies. The Hall of Fame award, specifically, requires participation in USDLA and significant contributions to global distance learning. Throughout her career, Lim has been deeply engaged in developing and promoting distance education. In 2008, she won the USDLA Outstanding Leadership Award and soon after began to serve on the USDLA board. “I loved doing it, because I learned so much from other institutions and what they’re doing. [USDLA] is a really interesting group because they have K–12, higher education, corporate, government and health care distance education.” Before joining the Andrews community, Lim worked as an instructional technology consultant at the Berrien Regional Education Service Agency for 14 years, where she focused on online asynchronous instructional technology and distance education. During this time, she taught courses for the Adventist Virtual Learning Network and oversaw a video conferencing system with around 35 units across local public school districts. She was also able to coordinate video conference projects, such as open-heart surgeries from the Center of Science and Industry in Columbus, Ohio, and an annual international reading event across multiple states and four countries. Lim shares that this work created a strong foundation for her time at Andrews University. Lim earned her BA in communication, MAT and PhD in leadership from Andrews University. In 2011, she began serving at Andrews as associate dean for online higher education. During this time, she was responsible for improving the quality and design of technological and online tools that aided the University. She was also responsible for faculty and course development, and she promoted collaboration across multiple Adventist institutions of higher learning. Lim began serving as interim dean of the Global Campus in March 2026, before becoming dean on July 1, 2026. As dean of the Global Campus, Lim oversees the Adult Degree Completion Center, the School of Leadership, the Center for Continuing Education, the Center for Digital Learning & Instructional Technology, the Office of International Student Services and Griggs International Academy. She hopes to continue her work of “deep collaboration, where each person understands the intent and design of what others bring,” noting that “to fully integrate and learn from each other’s ideas creates really great interactions.” Lim shares, “I feel that working at Andrews in distance education is something that God created and knit me together to do. He gave me the experience, and I am committed to Andrews because I know God wants me here. … For me, this award is a confirmation that God is leading, and He needs me to do something more besides what I’ve done so far.”  Wed, 01 Jul 2026 09:50:45 +0000