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.”
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