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also inside04 HAPPENINGS14 ACADEMICS16 HOMECOMING 201123 GOWER TRIBUTE

Photo courtesy of the McKinneysDr. Larry McKinney and his wife, Debbie, enjoyed a 12-day Mediterranean cruise this summer that included a visit to the Roman Coliseum, pictured here.

10 GATEWAY Spring/Summer 2011

I have a confession to make—I have difficulty throwing things away! I like to keep just about anything from the past, thinking it will have significance at some point in the future. I have kept all of my notes from college and graduate school, some dating back more than 40 years. I have kept almost every textbook from my student days, knowing that many of these books are completely out of print. I have kept my old running shoes for more than 20 years. I have them neatly stacked on a bookshelf in the garage. I even have a problem getting rid of clothing items that have far outlived their usefulness.

Yes, I have a problem. I prefer to think of it as holding onto precious, one-of-a-kind items that have significant meaning and perhaps future usefulness. Debbie sees it differently. She thinks I collect junk. She would even go so far as to say I am a hoarder. Fortunately, she usually wins, so I do manage to keep the garage, my closet, and my filing cabinets in reasonably good shape. However, it is a constant struggle.

While I have a problem getting rid of junk, there are special items within our household that we would not want to discard—wedding pictures, baby books, family photographs, and other keepsakes. We particularly enjoy getting out the old photo albums when our children, and now our grandchildren, come to visit. You can’t even put a price tag on some of these collectibles because of the precious memories that are associated with them. They help define who we are as individuals and as a family. They help to tell our story.

Similarly, I have kept old sermons, Bible studies, and devotional journals. They reveal a great deal about my own spiritual journey. They help to tell my story. They remind me that I have not arrived. I am still in the process of becoming more conformable to the image of His Son.

In II Corinthians 3:2-3, the Apostle Paul makes the remarkable statement about the Christians in the early

President Larry and Debbie McKinney at the Sweetheart’s Banquet held during Homecoming Weekend in February.

New Testament church in Corinth: You yourselves are our letter, written on our hearts, known and read by everyone. You show that you are a letter from Christ, the result of our ministry, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts. Think about this for a minute— each of us is a living letter that is known and read by others. We tell our story through our lives. What is the condition of your living letter? To whom have you given editorial control? Who is reading your mail? What themes emerge in your living letter?

TELLING OUR STORY


on the coverSimpson University celebrates its 90th year during 2011. This special issue of the Gateway includes an eight-page spread remembering our past and looking forward to our future. Join us in ‘Celebrating 90 Years of World Service.’

features04 - Student symposium honors scholarship05 - Professor earns national distinction14 - University launches four-year nursing program16 - Homecoming Weekend 201121 - Alumni Spotlight23 - Tribute to the Gowers

departments04 – Happenings14 – Academic Activities16 – Alumni News22 – Giving Focus

For a complete listing of Simpson University’s memberships, visit simpsonu.edu/memberships.

simpson university vol. 23 no. 1 | spring/summer ‘11

GATEWAY EDITOR: Candace Brown Dyar / [email protected] WRITERS: Wendy Matthews / Elise Wilson PHOTOGRAPHY: Ryan Belong / Michael Burke / Wendy Hecker / Emily Hogg / Melinda HunterCREATIVE DESIGN: Jimi BonogofskyDIRECTOR OF MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS: Mark WoodDIRECTOR OF ALUMNI & PARENT RELATIONS: Tonya Moore / [email protected] OF ADVANCEMENT: Beth Spencer / [email protected]

The Gateway is a nonprofit magazine published twice annually for alumni and friends of Simpson University, a university of The Christian and Missionary Alliance.

SIMPSON UNIVERSITY: 2211 College View Drive / Redding, CA 96003(530) 224-5600 / www.simpsonu.edu / www.facebook.com/simpsonu

If you do not wish to receive the Gateway or have an address change, please call 1-800-598-2239 or e-mail [email protected].

SIMPSON UNIVERSITY EXECUTIVE ADMINISTRATIONPRESIDENT: Larry J. McKinney, Ed.D.PROVOST: Stanley A. Clark, Ph.D.EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT: Bradley E. Williams, M.B.A.VICE PRESIDENT FOR ENROLLMENT MANAGEMENT: Herb Tolbert, Ed.D.VICE PRESIDENT FOR ADVANCEMENT: Gordon B. Flinn, M.B.A.VICE PRESIDENT FOR STUDENT DEVELOPMENT: Richard W. Brown, D.Min.CHANCELLOR: James M. Grant, Ph.D.

www.simpsonu.edu / 1-888-9-SIMPSON 11

Simpson University is celebrating its 90th anniversary as a Christ-centered learning community. Because we are a community of faculty, staff, students, alumni, and special friends, Simpson University is also a living letter that is known and read by everyone who chooses to move in closely and take a look. We constantly tell our story. This particular issue of the Gateway attempts to tell the story of the university’s 90-year history through written history, photos, and stories of men and women who have influenced their world through leadership, scholarship, and service. It is a letter we want you to read. It is a story that we enjoy telling.

God bless you and thank you for your prayers for and faithful support of Simpson University.

Read the president’s monthly blog at blogs.simpsonu.edu/president.

President Larry and Debbie McKinney at the Sweetheart’s Banquet held during Homecoming Weekend in February.

TABLE OFcontents


1921: Simpson Bible Institute, Seattle

Student symposium highlights academic scholarship

More than 30 undergraduate and graduate students presented talks and posters at Simpson University’s first academic symposium, held on campus April 9. The daylong event, attended

by an estimated 75 people, was designed to showcase student achievement and give presenters a taste of the professional events their professors frequently attend. “We wanted to celebrate scholarship and promote the good academic work our students do by providing a public forum for them to share that,” said history professor John Ayabe, who organized the symposium with professors Isaiah Lankham (math), Susan Monteleone (biology) and Michelle Engblom-Deglmann (psychology). Jill Kendrick, program coordinator for the Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology program, also helped. At the start of the school year, Dr. Ayabe broached the idea of a forum for history and other Humanities students to share their work—much of it original research—outside the classroom. Professors from other divisions expressed interest, and planning began for a spring symposium. In early March, students were invited to apply by submitting a short abstract of their work. Organizers were very pleased with the level of student interest, especially given the short timeframe, and look forward to expanding the event in 2012, Dr. Ayabe said. The symposium was divided into six morning and two afternoon sessions (some of them overlapped), as well as a poster session. A professor facilitated each session, which included up to four student presentations (10 to 30 minutes each) and question-and-answer/discussion time for the audience. In the poster session, students stood by posters outlining their research projects and answered questions as viewers came by. “We wanted to create the experience of what it’s like to be at a professional symposium,” Dr. Ayabe said. When possible, organizers sought to combine topics that had common threads. For example, one session included business major Daniel Clarke discussing why the U.S. does not need to be bailed out economically, history major Cassandra Heath talking about the relationship between the U.S. and former Soviet Union in the ‘80s, and history major Caleb Sanders talking about “Death Behind the Bamboo Curtain” in communist China. Students from Tozer Seminary and the Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology program also presented. Topics throughout the day included such titles as “Religious Shame: The Fruits of Toxic Faith,” “Christian Zionism, the Cross, and Violence,” and “A Performance and Discussion on Composing Original Music,” among many others.

SIMPSONhappenings

2010-2011 ENROLLMENTFrom summer 2010 through spring 2011, Simpson served 1,504 students (1,417 during fall and spring). Enrollment for spring semester was up 9 percent over spring 2010. Fall/spring totals, listed by program: 742 (traditional undergraduate), 361 (ASPIRE), 200 (School of Education), 90 (Tozer Seminary), and 24 (M.A. in Counseling Psychology).

GR ADUATION NUMBERSWinter Commencement (Jan. 22, 2011): 133 students (103 from the School of Continuing Studies/ASPIRE).

Spring Commencement (April 30, 2011): 206 graduates (126 traditional undergraduates, 50 from the ASPIRE program, eight from Tozer Seminary, 13 from the School of Education, and nine from the School of Education’s Korea campus)


STUDENT MISSIONS

Check out some of the latest additions to our website, www.simpsonu.edu:

ANNUAL REPORTThe 2009-10 university annual report is available at simpsonu.edu.annualreport.

INSTITUTIONAL DATASimpson’s institutional data, including its common data set, is available at simpsonu.edu/academics (click on “Institutional Data”).

NOW ONLINE

During spring break (last week of March),

student teams traveled to the Dominican

Republic, Guatemala, Haiti and Mexico on

mission trips. More teams will head out this

summer, traveling to Romania, Honduras,

Hong Kong and Asia. Follow their adventures

at blogs.simpsonu.edu. To learn more

about the student missions program, visit

simpsonu.edu/missions.

ATHLE TIC HIGHLIGHTS

Women’s Softball: Second place, Cal-Pac

Conference, 12-4 record. Won the NAIA

West Regional Qualifier/Cal-Pac Conference

Championship Tournament, earning a bid to

the NAIA National Tournament. For second

consecutive year, competed in the NCCAA

National Tournament.

Men’s Baseball: Finished Cascade Conference

season with a 12-12 record. Earned the No.

3 seed in the NAIA West Regional Qualifying

Tournament.

Men’s Golf: Second place in the Cal-Pac Con-

ference, their highest finish in school history.

Placed seventh in the NAIA West Regional

Qualifier Golf Tournament in San Diego.

Women’s Basketball: Fourth place, Cal-Pac

Conference, 5-7 record. Lost in second round

of Cal-Pac Championship Tournament.

Visit simpsonu.edu/athletics

Professor earns national distinction in field

ALUM RECOGNIZED FOR COMMUNITY LEADERSHIPSimpson alumnus Scott Putnam ‘98 was honored in January as one of 20 leaders under the age of 40 in the Redding area during a nomination process sponsored by the Record Searchlight newspaper. In addition, Putnam was chosen by the selection committee as this year’s scholarship ambassador. He will choose — and then mentor — a local high school senior who will be offered a $5,000 Emerging Leader Scholarship to Simpson University. Putnam is president of Apex Technology Management, a

technology service provider in Redding that was named Best Company to Work For in Shasta County in 2007. Putnam and his wife, Natalie (Allen ‘98), have two children. (Photo of Scott and Natalie Putnam courtesy Scott Putnam)

Dr. Michelle Engblom-Deglmann, clinical training director for Simpson University’s Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology (MACP) program, has won the prestigious Dissertation Award from the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy.

“This is a huge honor and ranks her among the best researchers in the field of family therapy,” said MACP Program Director Addie Jackson.

Each year, the association, which is the national organization for marriage and family therapists, selects one or two recipients from across the nation

to be honored for doctoral thesis work completed the year before. Dr. Engblom-Deglmann submitted a condensed version of her 180-page dissertation, titling it “Impact of Divorce Adjustment and Trust in Remarriage.” Her work examines how the decision to divorce impacts adjustment, how that adjustment influences trust in a remarriage, and how the trust level relates to remarital satisfaction. Award committee members were impressed by the rigor of Dr. Engblom-Deglmann’s methodology, the clarity of her writing, and the significance of her topic, said Kaye Nelson, chair of the AAMFT’s awards committee and a professor at Texas A&M University. “We believe her topic has relevance to clients as well as marriage and family therapists,” she said. A licensed marriage and family therapist, Dr. Engblom-Deglmann received her M.S. in community counseling from St. Cloud State University in Minnesota and her Ph.D. in counseling and family therapy, with a minor in research methodology, from Saint Louis University. Simpson University launched its MACP program in spring 2010. The two-year program is designed to prepare students for California licensure as marriage and family therapists. In addition to teaching courses, Dr. Engblom-Deglmann oversees the placement of students in clinical field work. Dr. Engblom-Deglmann will be honored with a plaque at the AAMFT’s annual conference in September in Ft. Worth, Texas. She also will have her conference fee waived and receive up to $500 for travel expenses. For more information about Simpson University’s MACP program, visit simpsonu.edu/macp.


A legacy of bold faithAt two critical times in Simpson University’s nine-decade history, its presidents turned to Old Testament imagery to convey the need for great faith, boldness and trust in God’s provision.

In November 1954, the board of Simpson Bible Institute was meeting to vote on whether to move the school across state lines, from Seattle to San Francisco. Then-President Paul Allen compared the situation to that of the wilderness-bound Israelites faced with the fearful adventure of moving into a new land.

“To the Israelites at Kadesh-barnea, the wilderness appeared comparatively safe to the hazards of the conquest of Canaan,” he wrote in a report to the board.

“But their safety was their graveyard. They refused to extend their faith to the point where they could enter Canaan. They were shut up to years of wandering in the wilderness from which few of them escaped…When the pillar of cloud moves, it does not necessarily sweep aside all the hindrances, but it is fatal not to move with it.”

The resulting relocation in 1955 to an old Salvation Army training camp on Silver Avenue in San Francisco gave Simpson Bible College (its name changed with the move and again in 1971

to Simpson College) 34 years of exploration and service in a provocative urban environment.

But in the late ‘80s, the college found itself in danger of closing, a result of declining enrollment in a location no longer viewed as favorably by students and their parents.

When Francis Grubbs became Simpson’s leader in 1987, he knew the situation was dire. “In my report to district conferences I have likened us to old Israel fronted by the Red Sea with the resounding hoofbeats of Pharaoh’s armies fast closing on the rear,” he wrote to the board in 1988. “Unless God opens a ‘highway through the waters,’ Simpson College will likewise perish.”

During summer and fall 1989, some 200 employees and students braved the move from San Francisco to the Northern California “outpost” of Redding, to a new 60-acre campus (now 85 acres). That first school year, students ate meals in the Learning Center, had chapel in a classroom and played ball on dirt fields. There was no dining hall, no gymnasium, no landscaping or grass.

But the faith and persistence of those who believed in God’s plan for Simpson College took root in the Northern California soil, and the institution began to grow. In its first seven years in Redding, enrollment soared from 200 to more than 1,150 students. This past

If Simpson University were a 90-year-old woman, she would narrate a colorful history – a childhood spent struggling through the Depression, coming of age in San Francisco during the ‘60s and ‘70s, several near-death experiences, and a daring rural move that strengthened the pursuit of her life mission.

She would talk proudly of her numerous children and grandchildren, who live all over the world and serve in multiple professions and ministries.

She’d smile gratefully as she recalled those who had stood by her in tough times, offering earnest prayers, sacrificing to help her pay bills, bestowing gifts of property or money, and volunteering their time.

Most of all, she’d point to the One who had guided her adventure and kept his promise never to leave her, even on the darkest days.

Simpson University celebrates its 90th anniversary this year – a milestone marked by gratitude and rich with reflection on the journey thus far.

Celebrating90 Years of World Service

06 GATEWAY Spring/Summer 201106 GATEWAY Spring/Summer 201106 GATEWAY Spring/Summer 2011

academic year, Simpson University (the college became a university in 2004) served more than 1,500 students in its undergraduate and graduate programs.

In the beginningSimpson is one of four colleges nation-

wide affiliated with The Christian and Missionary Alliance, a fellowship founded by Albert Benjamin Simpson (born in 1843) and described as a “society devoted to experiencing the ‘deeper life’ in Christ and completing the Great Commission.”

In the first two decades of the 20th century, the Alliance sought to grow its missionary base by

launching Bible schools. Students interested in be-coming missionar-ies were then re-quired to attend the Alliance’s so-called “finishing school,” the Missionary

Training Institute in Nyack, NY.Simpson Bible Institute (SBI), named

after the Alliance founder, opened in Seattle in 1921 with 20 students and three teachers. As a port city, Seattle was an ideal location for the comings and goings of missionaries across the Pacific.

“The contact which each student has with the outside world, the missions, the churches and the street meetings, frees him from the danger of becoming merely indoctrinated with Bible truths and theories about salvation,” wrote SBI’s first leader, William Wisdom Newberry, in a 1926 Alliance report. “Thus he is enabled to put

into operation that which he learns from the Word and in the classroom.”

By the end of its fourth year, 16 SBI students had been accepted for foreign missionary service. Though the institution’s long-standing “Gateway to World Service” motto was not official until the early 1950s,

its heart for global outreach was central from the beginning.

Two major out-side forces signifi-cantly impacted SBI in its early years. One was the Great Depression, which prompted the closure of the institute from fall 1929 to fall 1933. The other was the end of World War II, which

1946: Simpson Bible Institute students—and faculty and staff—eat at assigned tables in the dining room of the Seattle campus.

www.simpsonu.edu / 1-888-9-SIMPSON 07www.simpsonu.edu / 1-888-9-SIMPSON 07www.simpsonu.edu / 1-888-9-SIMPSON 07

William Wisdom (W.W.) NewberryPresident, 1921-1926 The Rev. Newberry was a friend of A.B. Simpson, founder of the Christian and Missionary Alliance and for whom Simpson Bible Insti-tute was named. According to a 1923 newspaper clip-ping, his daughter, Mary Lora Newberry Holton, was the first Simpson student to go to Asia as a missionary.

W.C. StevensPresident, 1926-1927

T.J. McCrossanPresident, 1928-1929The Rev. McCrossan was an Alli-ance pastor, Greek professor and author. His daughter, Gwendolyn, enrolled at SBI in 1923, and, until her death in 2007 at age 102, was Simpson’s oldest living alumna. Her husband, Fred Landis, taught and was dean of men at Simp-son and served as a trustee. The Landises’ four children all gradu-ated from Simpson.


prompted an influx of veterans coming to college under the GI Bill. (In 1947, the peak year, veterans accounted for 49 percent of college admissions, according to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. SBI had record enrollment – 254 students – in 1946.)

The war’s impact (as well as the danger of overseas missions work) was also demonstrated by the 1944 graduating class’s motto, “Christ Magnified – By Life or By Death,” and by the class gift of an American flag and 60-foot flagpole, installed with the help of soldiers from a nearby camp.

Maxine (Cederblom) Collord started at SBI in 1945, as war veterans were returning. In fact, Maxine’s future husband, Tom Collord, re-turned to SBI after being drafted into the U.S. Air Force and serving for three years.

When Max-ine and her sister, Yvonne, chose to go to Simpson, they had both been working profes-sionally and were part of a women’s trio that sang throughout eastern Washington.

Like so many Simpson students who came after them, their arrival at Simpson “had to have been all of God’s doing,” Maxine said. Raymond Cramer, who became Simpson’s sixth president in 1945, was the speaker at an Alliance camp Maxine attended during the summer of ’45. He suggested that she enroll at the institute. “I had no idea of it,” Maxine said. But the seed had been planted, and she and her sister decided to go that fall.

“We pooled our few resources,” she said. “We went on a shoestring. It was the Lord’s

doing, or we would never have gone.”

College life in the ‘40sMaxine paints a colorful picture of what life was like for early Simpson students.

Only one dorm meant men lived on the upper floor, women on the lower level. Chapel took place each weekday in the basement and had a choir. Sometimes students were assigned to speak in chapel on a particular Scripture passage. Maxine remembers Cliff Barrows, evangelist Billy Graham’s longtime music and program director, speaking in chapel.

Music was an integral part of campus life. President Cramer asked Herbert Tovey and his wife, Eva Margaret (daughter of Biola University’s then-president) to head up the music department, Maxine said. The first year, about 100 students and faculty members performed Handel’s “Messiah.” Eva Margaret directed the Renanah Choir (also suggesting its name, which means “praise”), which went on tour. Russ Marshall, who graduated from SBI in 1950, returned as a professor and directed the Renanah Choir for 20 years. (Russ passed away recently; see p. 19).

The Biltmore Coffee Shop was started by business manager Floyd Thatcher in the mid-‘40s in the basement of the main ad-ministration building. Coffee cost 4 cents a cup; stamps were 3 cents apiece.

The dress code for women was strict: no pants, ankle socks, makeup or earrings; stockings had to be worn, and skirts had to fall below the knee.

Sundays were honored as the Sabbath. Students traveled by bus to church and dressed up for Sunday meals. They were assigned to dif-ferent tables each month; faculty and staff ate with them.

All students had a work assignment,

whether landscaping, housekeeping, kitchen or office duty.

Missions was a vital part of community life – there were mission bands every Friday night and numerous mission groups, Maxine said. Many of the instructors were former missionaries, whose real-life experiences often greatly impacted their students.

One of Maxine’s teachers was Darlene Deibler Rose, who went to Indonesia at age 19 (Billy Graham’s daughter Ruth has written of hearing Darlene speak and the impact her story had). Her first husband was martyred during World War II, and Darlene imprisoned for four years in a

J.D. WilliamsPresident, 1934-1945Williams was a professor and head of the English Department at New York Missionary Training College and taught at the Mis-sionary Training Institute (Ny-ack). He was also founder and superintendent of St. Paul Bible College (now Crown College).


Raymond Leroy CramerPresident, 1945-1948Cramer was an Alliance pastor in California before going to SBI, where he served as director of Christian Education, depart-ment instructor of pastoral theology, and president-dean.

W.I. McGarveyPresident, 1933-1934 McGarvey reopened SBI after it closed for several years during the Great Depression.

Campus life in SeattleStudent Bud Bylsma ‘48 organized the first Simpson basketball team in 1945 (pictured). In its third season, the team beat well-established Seattle Pacific College. Other intercollegiate sports were added in the ‘50s. In addi-tion to organized sports, students at Simpson Bible Institute also enjoyed outings, such as this sailing excursion.


Japanese prison camp. She told her students about praying desperately for food while in solitary confinement and how much she was craving a banana. One day a guard brought a large bunch of bananas to her cell.

Over its nine-decade history, Simpson has educated hundreds of missionaries, who have served all over the globe, touching thousands of lives. Some of the earliest ones included Dora Bowman, Helen Gilkerson,

Doris Brougham, and Archie Mitchell. Bowman, credited with being the first student to arrive at SBI in 1921, spent 42 years in West Africa, reportedly becoming the first white woman to wed in Timbuktu. She and her

husband raised four sons who also became missionaries. Gilkerson, a ‘36 grad, was a missionary in Taiwan for more than 52 years. The Taiwanese government awarded her honorary citizenship in 2002. Brougham ‘47 founded Overseas Radio and TV in Taiwan, which broadcasts daily to hundreds of thousands. She has been highly feted by the Taiwanese government. Archie Mitchell ‘43 was one of three missionaries kidnapped

by the Viet Cong in 1962 from a medical facility in Vietnam. His wife and four children were not harmed, but he remains missing.

The Collords, who married in 1947, graduated in ’48 and went to Seattle Pa-cific College. Tom earned a degree in Greek and became youth director for the

Alliance until he was asked to return to his alma mater in 1952 as the registrar. Over the years, many Simpson alums have returned to

work at the college, often offering expertise from graduate studies and other professional experience. Tom Collord worked at Simpson for the next 40 years, wearing many hats – including academic dean and Greek profes-sor. Maxine’s sister, Yvonne, also worked for many years at her alma mater, retiring as then-President Mark Lee’s assistant in 1987.

Seattle to San FranciscoIn 1945, The Christian and Missionary Alliance designated Simpson as its western regional school, encompassing not only the Pacific Northwest District (Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and the cities of Vancouver, Victoria, and New Westminster in British

Columbia, Canada) but also the South Pacific District (California, Utah, Nevada, Arizona and New Mexico). “It really changed the dynamic,” noted current Associate Provost (and ‘76 Simpson grad) Robin Dummer, who is conducting doctoral research on the university’s history.

Board minutes from 1952 show a recommendation from the South Pacific District that the school consider moving to a location more central for both districts. It also recommended that a liberal arts college and theological seminary be established “within the framework” of SBI.

Academic rigor increased as SBI worked to meet and maintain accrediting standards

San FranSimpson alumni from the Silver Avenue campus have many memo-ries of beach trips, practical jokes and dorm fun.


E.R. DunbarPresident, 1948-1951Dunbar also served as a pastor and superintendent and vice president of Missionary Train-ing Institute in Nyack, N.Y.

Paul S. AllenPresident, 1951-1963Allen, who led Simpson from Seattle to San Francisco, also served as an Alliance pastor, a missionary in Palestine and Iran, an instructor in Arabic at a linguistics school in Jerusa-lem, chairman of Palestine Mission, and a district super-intendent.

Class time

Tom Collord teaches

Greek to students in

San Fran-cisco. Tom, a Simpson

alum, worked

at the college for

40 years in three

cities.


set by the Accrediting Association of Bible Institutes and Bible Colleges. In the late ‘40s, the school expanded its three-year certificate programs to include four-year bachelor’s

degrees. School officials

knew the 3-acre Seattle property had limited growth potential. Studies determined that it would cost as much to renovate as to move. In spring 1954, the board was asked to investigate a property in San Francisco “with ex-cellent potential.”

Simpson bought the Silver Avenue property in 1954 for $250,000. It had a

two-story main building with five wings, a gymnasium and two other smaller buildings. “There has been a chain of providential circumstances which have indicated unmistakably to the board that God was challenging us to secure this property for our regional school on the west coast,” then-President Allen wrote in a press release.

The board also voted to change SBI’s name to Simpson Bible College as it sought to comply with California’s tax-exemption laws. Associate Provost Dummer noted that the school had to jump through many hoops to make the move to a new city and state. “There was a pioneering spirit,” he said.

The Collords were among the staff and faculty who relocated along with the college. “It had to be the Lord’s doing,” Maxine said. “It was not an easy move. It was amazing how many people decided to come.”

Among them was Miles Stuart Compton, who graduated from SBI during its final year in Seattle. Hired as Simpson Bible College’s librarian in 1955, he served the institution for more than 50 years, following the college to Redding in 1989. (He passed away in 2009.)

Len Wallmark, a longtime Bible professor,

enrolled at Simpson during its first year in San Francisco. Fresh out of the Navy, he took advantage of the GI Bill to attend Simpson. Other longtime Simpson employees who joined the college in San Francisco include English professor Alan Rose, retired professors Glenn Schaefer (Bible) and Don Claspill (history), and database manager Lisa (Cooper ‘86) Wood.

In 1969, Simpson received accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), a milestone that marked its growth in liberal arts. How to incorporate Simpson’s expansion into the humanities and sciences while remaining true to its deeply rooted Christian-service mission is an ongoing discussion chronicled in board minutes throughout the decades.

Another significant shift took place when Mark Lee Sr. became president in 1970 (at 17 years, his is the longest presidential tenure

of Simpson’s leaders to date). The col-lege was struggling with enrollment and financial difficul-ties. He pushed for a name change to Simpson College, in acknowledgement of the non-Bible degrees offered. He also recommended that Simpson stay in the Bay Area but

look to acquire other property, and that the college establish satellite campuses.

Despite the challenges (the college was on the verge of bankruptcy more than once), a very dedicated faculty and staff poured themselves into the lives of students, many of whom have rich memories of their years on Silver Avenue. Several hundred alums returned to that campus in 2009 for a 20-year reunion of the college’s last year there.

San Francisco to ReddingFrancis Grubbs, director of education for the Alliance, succeeded Lee as president in 1987. By that time, the college had examined

a number of relocation options, but “inadequate


Joseph C. WenningerPresident, 1963-1969Wenninger was vice president of St. Paul Bible College (now Crown) before coming to Simpson. He served the Alli-ance for more than 60 years in roles that included national director for Higher Education, assistant to the president, and director of the archives. His friendship with A.W. Tozer was very meaningful to him. Current Simpson President Larry McKinney got to meet “Dr. Joe” in 2009, not long before his death at age 91.

Francis W. GrubbsPresident, 1987-1992Grubbs was the vice president/executive director of Alliance Theological Seminary in Ny-ack, N.Y., before coming to Simpson. He led the college through its move from San Francisco to Redding.

Mark W. Lee Sr.President, 1970-1987Lee’s tenure as president was the longest thus far in Simp-son’s history. He came to the college from Whitworth Col-lege, where he was acting dean of the faculty.

Three of the professors who moved with Simpson College from San Fran-sisco to Redding in 1989: Len Wallmark, Don Claspill and Glenn Schaefer.

a number of re-location options, but “inadequate re-sources prevent us from proceeding,” Lee had noted in 1986.

The situation had become increasingly desperate, however. The board consid-ered several options. Developers in both Redding and Chico

sought to lure the college north. With much prayer, trustees went with the Redding option.

Fran Owen, a longtime supporter and trustee of the college (and, at 90, the same age as Simpson) remembers shoveling dirt as the college broke ground in its new locale. “The city of Redding welcomed us with open arms and did so many things to encourage us to be here,” she said.

The Collords decided, once again, to follow Simpson. It was not easy to leave San Francisco – they had raised four children there, two of whom graduated from Simpson. Nevertheless, “I don’t think we ever questioned the fact that it was God’s time to move Simpson,” Maxine said.

Other faculty members also faced the difficult decision of whether or not to move. Dr. Glenn Schaefer, who started working at Simpson in 1974, was on a plane preparing to take off for Indiana—and a final interview for a job there—when he felt very strongly


that God was telling him not to go. He got off the plane and returned to Simpson, where he continues to serve after retirement (most

recently starting Simpson University for Seniors).

The college began to sink its roots into Redding soil and soon flourished. In addition to its undergraduate pro-gram (which had less than 200 students the first year), a degree-completion for working adults was launched at

the same time (nearly 3,000 students have graduated from that program, known as ASPIRE).

In 1993, James Grant succeeded Grubbs as president (Len Wallmark served as interim president for a year; he was the second man to serve in that capacity in Simpson’s history—Herman Hazlett, a 30-year Simpson employee, filled in for a year in 1969-1970). During President Grant’s 13 years, Simpson saw explosive growth in its overall student population (from 680 to over 1,200) and campus growth (from four to 11 buildings). In 2004, the college changed its name to Simpson University, an acknowledgement of its expanding academic offerings at the undergraduate and master’s levels.

Fran Owen, who, along with her husband, E.C., gave generous-ly to the three-story student services cen-ter on campus that bears their name, rejoices with Simp-son’s blessings and acknowledges some tough times in Red-ding. “We went through a lot of hard places,” she said. “There were times when we didn’t

know if the school would last another month or two. There were many times of prayer and fasting for a lot of us on the board.”

In 2006, the university welcomed Larry McKinney as its 13th president. Since then, the university has continued to expand its programs, most recently adding nursing, biology and outdoor leadership. A.W. Tozer Theological Seminary, named after the well-known Alliance pastor and author, was dedicated in 2007.

God’s mighty handMaxine Collord still stays in touch with many people she’s met at Simpson through the decades. Her husband, Tom, retired

in 1992 and passed away in 1997. Like so many others who have studied or served at Simpson, her life and legacy are deeply entwined with the unique institution that has always held Christ-centered education and service at its heart. In 2014, Maxine’s third grandchild will graduate from Simpson. As she looks back at her life – and the life of the college – she sees the Lord’s hand mightily at work. “At the time you don’t see it,” she said. “Risk-taking is part of the Christian life.”

• Special thanks to Robin Dummer for his invaluable notes and research and to Maxine Collord for sharing her remembrances.


Larry J. McKinneyPresident, 2006-presentPrior to coming to Simpson, McKinney served as executive director of the Association for Biblical Higher Education and president of Providence Col-lege and Seminary in Mani-toba, Canada.

Mission statement: As a Christ-

centered learning community,

Simpson University develops

students in mind, faith, and

character to influence the

world through leadership,

scholarship, and service.

Simpson University celebrated 20 years in Redding in 2009.

James M. GrantPresident, 1993-2006Grant was a pastor, professor and administrator at Toccoa Falls College before coming to Simpson. He led the college during its largest period of growth and oversaw the name change to Simpson University in 2004.

DAN BERGER, professor of communication, presented a paper titled “Metaphysics of Diversity: Being-with-Being-as-Being” at the Society of Christian Philosophers in March and a

paper titled “Virtue Metaphysics” at a Virtue conference in Texas in April.

A paper by DR. DAN PINKSTON, associate professor of theory and composition, will be published in an upcoming

activities

ACADEMIC

faculty scholarly activities

University launches four-year nursing program

S impson University announced the start of its new four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree at

a press conference in January 2011. Among those in attendance were the first 26 students enrolled in the program, new nursing faculty, and program Director Jan Dinkel, who was honored in March with a Women of Achievement for Community Service award by the Redding chapter of the American Association of University Women.

“Years from now, I’m sure we’ll look back at the launch of the B.S.N. program as a landmark for this university,” President Larry McKinney said.

The university needs to raise about $1 million more to build a Science and Nursing Building. In the meantime, students meet in a modular building converted to a classroom and lab, where they are able to work with a state-of-the-art programmable mannequin. Students also work with real patients through the numerous partnerships the university has with regional hospitals and nursing homes.

For the second consecutive year, a handful of students spent their spring break participating in a medical clinic mission in Mexico. For more information about the nursing program, visit simpsonu.edu/nursing.

TOP: Twenty-six students are enrolled in the new nursing program. Students are considered pre-nursing student for three semesters while

they focus on general education and prerequisite courses. They enter the B.S.N. program during

their sophomore year.

ABOVE: Students and faculty examine “Stanley,” a programmable mannequin, while an observing professor controls Stanley’s symptoms and makes

him talk from a control room.

issue of the Christian Scholar’s Review. The paper is titled “U2 and Igor Stravinsky: Texture, Timbre, and the Devil.”

MICHELLE STINSON, assistant professor of Old Testament, presented a paper titled “A Triptych of the Table: Rebellion, Judgment and Restoration in the Book of

Isaiah,” at the Society of Biblical Literature Conference in Atlanta in November.

PAUL STONEHOUSE, assistant professor of Outdoor Leadership, co-authored a chapter titled “Aristotle, Plato, and Socrates:

Ancient Greek Perspectives on Experiential Learning” in the book Sourcebook of Experiential Education: Key Thinkers and Their Contributions. A presentation he made at the Association of Outdoor Recreation and Education Conference in 2010 (titled “The rough



First online program beginsORGANIZATIONAL LEADERSHIP, Simpson University’s first completely online degree, launched in January 2011 with 16 students through the School of Continuing Studies (ASPIRE program). Participants in the first cohort are from Ohio, Oregon and California. They are expected to graduate in April 2012. Courses are taken sequentially, one at a time, and completed in about five weeks. “Our program is intentionally designed to be flexible for working professionals, so they can participate in discussions and complete assignments when it works best for them,” said Patty Taylor, dean of Continuing Studies. The major, which is also offered in the ASPIRE classroom setting, will next be offered online in January 2012. For more information, visit cs.simpsonu.edu.

Honor Society inductions heldFOURTEEN SIMPSON STUDENTS were inducted into two national honor societies this spring: 11 into Alpha Chi, and three into the Kappa Mu Epsilon mathematics honor society. Alpha Chi operates at more than 300 college and university campuses in the U.S., promoting scholarly achievement and high

character. The newest Simpson inductees: Emily Christensen, Brandon Colbert, Scott Cushman, Melissa Franklin, Sanga Lee, Lisa Maki, Allison McClary, Laura Priddy, Elizabeth Sommerfeld, Jennifer Stevens, and Brândon Williams. The Kappa Mu inductees: Camille Crane, Ricky Hogan and Larissa Shirley.

Exchange students discuss events in EgyptFOUR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS studying at nearby Shasta Community College visited Simpson in February at the invitation of the History Department. Three of the students, in Redding as part of the Fulbright Student Exchange Program, were from Egypt; the fourth was from Morocco. About 40 people attended the forum, which was moderated by Simpson students and took place shortly after Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak stepped down after weeks of revolt. The students shared their opinions about events in their home region. History professor Cherry McCabe said the event gave students a chance to hear different perspectives. “We sometimes forget that history is still unfolding, all around us,” she told The Slate, Simpson’s student newspaper.

These new books by Simpson faculty members can be purchased at Amazon.com.

The Gospel of John: A Thematic ApproachBy R. Jackson Painter

Part of the genius of the Gospel of John comes from how the author infuses the gospel message into every part of the Gospel. In The Gospel

of John: A Thematic Approach, Jackson Painter investigates John’s literary-theological strategy by identifying seven key themes and showing the reader how to detect them in any portion of the Gospel as well as how to see the themes interacting with one another to create John’s distinct theological message about Jesus Christ, the Son of God. The author gives numerous examples of the elements and motifs that comprise the themes and presents three studies that illustrate how the themes interact. (Wipf and Stock Publishers, 2010)Dr. Painter is an associate professor of New Testament.

Maria Mockingbird and Her GiftBy Glenn Schaefer

In this delightful children’s tale, Maria Mockingbird

learns early how to sing numerous songs. Then she discovers a special talent related to her singing; however, things are not quite what they seem. Dr. Schaefer, a natural storyteller, likes to take scenes from nature to illustrate life principles. The book is beautifully illustrated by Katie (Campbell) Nichols, a former Simpson student and employee. (CreateSpace, 2011)Dr. Schaefer is a Frances P. Owen Distinguished Professor Emeritus.

ground of character: A philosophical investigation into character development on a wilderness expedition through a virtue ethical lens”) will be published in the Journal of Outdoor Recreation, Education, and Leadership.

DAVID STRONG, Frances P. Owen Distinguished Professor of Missiology, had a book review published in Missiology on Local Religion in North China in the Twentieth Century: The

Structure and Organization of Community Rituals and Beliefs.

PHIL VAUGHN, assistant professor of youth ministries, presented two sessions at the Alliance Redwoods conference grounds for a youth leader retreat in October (topics: “The Art

of Subversion” and “Moving Beyond Folk Theology”). He presented a session titled “Avoiding Narcissistic Tendencies in Youth Ministry” at a November Shasta YouthNet conference in Redding, and conducted two training sessions for youth and adult leaders at Paradise Alliance Church in January.

visit simpsonu.edu/scholars

BOOKS BY FACULT Y


Barbara (Sands) Hawes, Judy (Davis) Jung, Don Claspill, and Keith Kayser.

classes of ‘85 & ‘86

Mark and Lisa (Cooper) Wood, Brian Sprock, Drake Travis, and Trina (Martinez) Jensen.

classes of ‘60 & ‘61

2010-11 HONORED ALUMS: Alumnus of the Year Jeanine (Kaufman ‘84) Masciola, left, and Distinguished Alumnus of the Year Levan Kakhadze ‘05, who spoke in chapel about God’s guidance through opportunities. Read their stories and hear Levan’s chapel message at simpsonu.edu/homecoming (click on “Chapel”).

ozens of alumni enjoyed the activities of a revised homecoming weekend, set to coincide with basketball season. Highlights included a Valentine’s-themed Sweetheart Banquet (held at Riverview Country Club) for couples who met at Simpson; a tailgate party and car-decorating contest; an Athletic Hall of Fame luncheon; and a special alumni chapel.

Another first this year was a Virtual Homecoming, still available online at simpsonu.edu/homecoming. Those who couldn’t come to campus were able to listen to a chapel podcast, watch a video message from President McKinney, and view event photos soon after they took place.

D

alumni NEWS


2001-02 WOMEN’S BASKETBALL TEAM

2010-11 HOMECOMING KING AND QUEEN: Logan Denney and

Hannah Schmidt were crowned during halftime of the men’s

basketball game.

GO, RED HAWKS: The women in Cooper-Heath dorm won a car-decorating contest at Saturday’s tailgate party.

BOOK SIGNING: The university bookstore hosted faculty authors, including Drs. Glenn Schaefer, far left, and Jack Painter.

S impson University’s Athletic Department inducted its 2001-02 women’s basketball team into its Hall of Fame on Feb. 12. The team was

honored for winning Simpson’s first women’s basketball national championship, taking home the national title in the 2002 NCCAA Division II championship in Oklahoma City. The team was led by 6-foot-2 center Katie (Soll) Banks, who was named MVP of the tournament. Other team members included Buffie Maze, Vannytha Keo, Rachel Slaton, Angela Ritter, Shandra Guthrie, Rachel Pippin, Kristen List, Heidi Brookshire, Angela Johnson, Hillary Lambert, and Sarah Davison. The team (pictured then, left, and now, below) was coached by Jim Hall and assistant coaches Derrick Fleck ‘00 and Talara (Butler ‘98) Burns.

Athletic Hall of Fame

ON THE COURT: Men’s and women’s basketball games were high points of the weekend.


alumni UPDATES

E-mail your news and photos to [email protected].

1980s Judy (Schaefer ’85) Flores, who also earned a master’s degree from Simpson in 1994, was named Curriculum & Instruction Administrator of the Year for Region 1 in May 2010 by the Association of California School Administrators. Region 1 covers eight counties in Northern California.

2000s (1) Aiko Yamada ’04 married Brian Mancini on March 19, 2011, at University Lutheran Church in Tempe, Ariz., where Aiko works as the music director and pianist/organist. They met while teaching at a summer arts camp for children at Arizona State University.

(2) Sayar (Aung ’05) Beaty has been promoted to group coordinator at Keystone Pacific Property Management, an Irvine, Calif.-based community association management group. Sayar earned her California Real Estate License in ‘07 and a Certified Community Association Manager designation in ‘09.

new arrivals

(3) Evan Robert Swinburne was born Aug. 4, 2010, to Steve ’05 and Renee (Visbeek ’06) Swinburne.

Olivia Violet Cosette Warkentin was born Oct. 26, 2010, to Tim and Erin (Reibsome) Warkentin, both ’04. Olivia was welcomed by brothers Elijah and Noah.

(4) Ace Mackenzie Peterson was born Dec. 17, 2010, to Aaron ’07 and Anneliese Peterson.

Silas Hinton was born Dec. 20, 2010, to John and Maribeth (Swanson) Hinton, both ’06.

Caleb Michael Heaton was born March 8, 2011, to Chad and Kenna (Stephens ’97) Heaton.

Oliver Peter Fodge was born March 8, 2011, to Jason ’03 and Belinda Fodge. Oliver joins siblings Solomon, Lana, Rebecca and Chloe.

Austin Nielsen ’04

proposed to Amy Mickelson

atop Half Dome in Yosemite

National Park on Aug. 28,

2010. They were planning

a May 28, 2011, wedding in

La Canada Flintridge, Calif.

Austin works in Los Angeles

as an independent contractor

doing real estate consulting

and management. He also

volunteers with Young Life,

doing ministry for young

adults with disabilities and

special needs. Amy is a

director with Young Life in

the Pasadena area.

1

2

3

4


RUSS MARSHALL ‘50Alumnus, professor and choir director

B eloved former music professor Russ Marshall passed away Feb. 23, 2011. He was 86. Russ graduated from Simpson Bible Institute in Seattle in 1950 and returned to his alma mater as a professor and director of the Renanah Choir for 20 years. He is fondly remembered for his excellence in fine arts, his strong commitment to serve the Lord, and the impact his faith made on the lives of hundreds of Simpson students, both in Seattle and San Francisco. Russ is survived by his wife, Ruth, four sons, one daughter, 14 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his son Keith. A service was held March 5 at El Camino Baptist Church in Tucson, Ariz. A former Simpson student who signed Russ’s online obituary guestbook expressed the sentiments of many with these words: “To know him was to love him. Words cannot describe what he has meant to me and countless others who had the privilege of singing in his choirs and witnessing a true man of God. He could have gone anywhere with his talent and musical abilities but chose to follow God’s leading and teach in a small Christian college. As a result, thousands of lives were changed, including mine. What a legacy!” The Alumni Office has converted a choir album made by Russ Marshall into CDs. Request a copy at (530) 226-4774 or by e-mailing [email protected].

with the LordDorothy L. (Bearman ‘44) Nelson • May 15, 2010

Gertrude Gessford ’49 • Feb. 5, 2010

Norma Jean (Weimer ‘49) Browning • April 27, 2010

Phyllis J. Carlton ’52 • April 13, 2010

Donald Gordon Peterson ’52 • July 27, 2010

Francis William Hoover ‘52 • Nov. 13, 2009

Eloise J. (Umphenour ‘55) Robinson • Jan. 10, 2010

William West Patterson ‘55 • Jan. 27, 2011

Conrad Heidel Jr. ’55 • Sept. 29, 2010

Adrian Paul Travis ’56 • Oct. 6, 2010

Robert Reed ‘ 56 • Oct. 20, 2010

Henry Roderic Ketchum ’58 • September 2010

Helen (Coggins ‘61) Owen • Oct. 30, 2010

Stephen George Baba ’78 • Sept. 21, 2009

J. Denton Collins ’79 • September 2008

Rosemarie Kinyon, a ’94 ASPIRE alum • May 24, 2010

Debra Luanne Clayburn ‘95 • March 1, 2010

Cordova Neighborhood Church, Rancho Cordova, Calif. (Nov 2010)Larry and Debbie McKinney, Jeph Mitchum, Jessica Keaney Davies, Lisa Lloyd, Jeff Davies, Rebecca Cooke, Mark Cooke, Pam Finney, Mark Lloyd, Kathy West Magoffin, Rima Haidary.

Mark West Church, Santa Rosa, Calif. (Feb 2011)Larry and Debbie McKinney, Josh Mello, Darla Geiger, David Williams, Sarah (Hoffman) and Eric Henneberque, Josh and Julie Ratiani, Nick Ratiani, Ruth Carlson, Gene Box, Renee Ratiani, Valerie Box, Laurabelle and Bill Winner.

Town and Country Manor, Santa Ana, Calif. (Oct 2010)Standing, from left: Bob and Virginia Witchey, Carmen and Norman Nelson, Debbie and Larry McKinney. Seated, from left: Enid Miller, Janet Van Schooten, Annetta Powell, Ellen Lloyd.

president meets with alumni and friends


HAVE YOU VISITED THE HAWKS’ NEST LATELY?Your alumni online community website has a fresh new look. Visit hawksnest.simpsonu.edu to catch up on news, share your own, and connect with classmates.

JOIN US ON FACEBOOK: facebook.com/simpsonualumni

LET US KNOW ABOUT YOUR ‘NEW ARRIVAL’

and we’ll send you a Simpson University onesie. (Then be sure

to send us a photo of your future Simpson student sporting his or

her first Red Hawks T-shirt.) E-mail [email protected].

Provost Stanley Clark’s granddaughter, Adelaide Clark, sports a Simpson tee.

Look Who DROPPED BY...

Not getting the monthly alumni e-newsletter?E-mail [email protected] or

call (530) 226-4935. The e-newsletter

arrives in your inbox with campus

events, news, updates and class

notes, athletic updates, and faculty

and alumni spotlights.

Tim ’00 and Kerri (Brown ’98) Loomis stopped by in January, with their three children, from left, Micah, Karis and Jacob.

Laura (Marshall ‘99) Komarek visited campus in February with three of her four children, from left, Lydia, Audria and Sophia.

alumni NEWS

Larisa (Henry ‘95) Hernandez returned to campus for a visit on Feb. 4, 2011, with her husband, William, and their six children: Isaiah, 10, Zephaniah (8), Ezraiah (6), Azaliah (4), Zayaniah (2), and Zimraiah (2 months). The Hernandezes, who posed for a photo with Dr. Glenn Schaefer, have a ministry in the States and overseas.


Healing Power, Voice ActivatedBy Drake Travis ‘85 While exploring from Genesis to James, Healing Power, Voice Activated reveals the 13 Hebrew words for

healing, the multifaceted nature of Jesus’ healing miracles, and over 100 pages of modern-day healing testimonies. View Drake’s work online at www.draketravis.com.

A Most Dangerous Profession: Why the Pastoral Ministry is Hazardous to Your SoulBy Eric Sorenson ‘84

Hot off the presses, A Most Dangerous Profession builds on the premise that while every Christian is assailed by temptation, those in professional ministry face fiercer storms than the rest. This perspective was held in common by the early church, leading some church fathers to actually flee the call to ministry over this very concern. This book surfaces the unified voice of the church about the spiritual risks inherent to ministry and then ends with practical advice on how to overcome.

Re-Examining Religious Persecution: Constructing a Theological Framework for Understanding Persecution

By Charles Tieszen ‘00This book examines the shortcomings evinced by many modern studies of religious persecution. Noting the gaps in current theological reflection, Tieszen offers a theological framework in which the religious persecution of Christians can be properly and theologically understood and responded to. Readers will find their present understanding of persecution challenged, their awareness of the event heightened, and their ability to respond to persecution invigorated.

ARE YOU A PUBLISHED AUTHOR?For a full list of Simpson alumni authors, visit simpsonu.edu/alumniauthors. If you have a published work, let us know. E-mail a description of your work, a photo of the cover and a head shot to [email protected].

ALUMNI authors Young alum shares law school tips

H unter Starr ‘09 returned to campus in March to address students who are inter-

ested in law school. Starr, who graduated with a B.A. in History and a minor in Bible and theology, is finishing his first year at Pacific McGeorge Law School in Sacramento. In addition to discussing the benefits of law school and answering questions about the application process, he shared his personal story with the students.

A resident of Bakersfield, Starr chose Simpson for its location, small class sizes and because he wanted to attend a private university. In 2004 he enrolled as a freshman, but by the end of his sophomore year, with his grades barely maintaining a C average, Starr dropped out of college.

In January 2007, Starr was riding with a friend from Bakersfield to Redding around midnight. Starr was already sleeping when the driver fell asleep and their car hit the back of a semi-truck and flipped several times. Starr was flown to Enloe Medical Center in Chico, where he endured a four-hour surgery. He suffered a collapsed lung and diaphragm, a nearly crushed heart, and several shattered bones in his hands.

Starr said his accident was an eye-opener, and it helped repair his relationship with his dad. “My dad and I had an agreement – if I earned a college education, he would pay for my expenses. He always wanted me to earn my degree and he was really disappointed when I dropped out. After my accident, I wasn’t the same person. The accident lit a fire within me,” he said.

In September 2007, Starr returned to Simpson. Professors who had questioned why he had returned saw a difference in him.

“I went from being a C student to an A student,” said Starr. “I had a change of heart—and diaphragm,” he joked.

Starr became involved with several clubs on campus, including Simpson’s student newspaper, The Slate.

History professor Ann Miller said, “Hunter has such an inquiring mind. In his classes at Simpson, he would probe and analyze the difficult problems. He always grappled with the hard questions and brought other students along in the process. It was such a pleasure to observe his intellectual and spiritual growth.”

Starr, who married Joyce Nestor the summer after graduation, is in his second semester of his first-year in law school. He is in the top 50 percent of his class and was recently awarded a scholarship for placing in the top three of a mock trial competition in which nearly 130 first-year students competed.

In 2013 Starr hopes to graduate with his juris doctorate. After the bar exam he plans to work in criminal or civil litigation. Starr attributes a lot of his success to the education he received at Simpson. “Simpson alumni are going to have an advantage,” he said. “Smaller class sizes give them the constant ability to engage with professors, which is a staple for law school courses.”

Simpson University’s history department recently added a pre-law concentration to its major.

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: Hunter Starr ‘09


If you are interested in participating locally or regionally as a Friend of Simpson University, please contact Beth Spencer at [email protected] or (530) 226-4602.

science and nursing building($3.5 million)Raised & pledged to date: $2.07 million

student scholarship fund ($4.5 million)Raised & pledged to date: $4.3 million

faculty developmentfund ($1 million)Raised & pledged to date: $862,168

curriculumdevelopment fund($500,000)Raised & pledged to date: $185,891

fine arts center($3.5 million)Raised & pledged to date: $556,644

CAMPAIGN GOAL:$10 million

CHALLENGE GOAL:$13 million

AMOUNT REC’D OR PLEDGED:(as of 3/31/11): $8 million

ONE WAY TO HONOR SIMPSON’S 90TH ANNIVERSARY is to partner with the Gateway to the Future Campaign, launched in 2008 to raise funds for critical buildings and funds that directly benefit our students and faculty. The campaign has been extended to the end of 2011. A recent challenge grant for the Science and Nursing Building was met (and exceeded) by Simpson faculty and staff. We are so thankful and encouraged by the generosity of those who support our mission to provide a Christ-centered education. Learn other ways to help the campaign at simpsonu.edu/giving.

GATEWAY TO THE FUTURE CAMPAIGNSIMPSONU.EDU/GIVING

GATEWAY TO THE FUTURE CAMPAIGNSIMPSONU.EDU/GIVING

giving FOCUS

September 22-25 , 201 1

The Friends of Simpson University is a volunteer group designed to support the students of Simpson University. A restart of the former Simpson Women’s Auxiliary, this group seeks to build relationships, create awareness and raise resources for the university. Volunteers have opportunities to help with numerous events. They serve students as prayer partners, by adopting a dorm floor, hosting dinners, baking Christmas cookies, and welcoming new students. Other activities in need of “friends” include the following:

Introducing | ‘Friends of Simpson University’

PRESIDENT’S WEEKEND | SAVE THE DATE

• Senior luncheons with Dr. Glenn Schaefer

• Simpson University for Senior classes

• Music Department concert receptions

• Christmas tree lighting

• Beth Moore simulcast

• Craft and Fair Trade Bazaar

• Spring Scholarship Banquet

• Green Thumbs group

If you are interested in participating locally or regionally as a Friend of Simpson University, contact Beth Spencer at [email protected] or (530) 226-4602.22 GATEWAY Spring/Summer 2011

Below are excerpts from a speech shared at Mike Gower’s memorial service on Jan. 22, 2011, by Amy (Humbert ‘95) Bailey (pictured, right, with her husband, Jim ‘95, who also shared of Mike’s impact on his life).

“W hen Jim and I were young college students not yet married and on a journey of self-discovery, healing and

wholeness, Mike and Caroline opened up their home and hearts to share with us their own life stories of challenge and overcoming, grief and healing, to point us to the heart of Jesus. I remember how in the course of an evening Mike and Caroline would share so openly areas of grief and pain, then laugh with delight and praise as they would point out the truths of Scripture and consequently the truths of Jesus.

Mike fought for life in others regardless of how the odds might have stacked up against that person, because he didn’t believe in odds. Mike believed in grace. He taught so many of us to fight for life in

A Tribute to the Gowers

ourselves by embracing the grace given to us in Jesus Christ.

Jim and I began our time of service at our current church as youth pastors. Several years ago one of the mothers of a wonderful young lady who was graduating from high school said to me, “You know, Amy, as a parent, one of the things I am thankful for are the people the Lord sends along to fill in the gaps in my children’s lives that we were not able to fill,” and she thanked me for being one of those persons. I am “one of those persons” because Mike was one of those for me.

Just a year or two into our marriage, Jim and I found ourselves sitting in Mike and Caroline’s apartment wrestling with some things related to life in ministry. It is a conversation I remember most clearly out of so many with Mike. His admonition to me was to keep it about Jesus. He looked me in the eyes and said, “Life in ministry cannot be about anything but Jesus.” It sounds simple and seems obvious, but it was a word that lodged deep in my heart.

Mike exemplified a life lived for Jesus. Mike’s words, his actions, his love for me and his devotion to Caroline constantly pointed to a Jesus who would treat me the same way. He was motivated to live, serve and love because of the life of Jesus within him. I remember Mike talking about Jesus and taking in grace as if he had just met Jesus and discovered grace the day before. Life, no matter whose it was, or what challenge somebody was facing, was full of possibility and hope because Mike knew with such confidence what Jesus could do in a life.”

REMEMBERINGMICHAEL S. GOWER 1935-2010

Introducing | ‘Friends of Simpson University’

Mike Gower (pictured above with his wife, Caroline) passed

away on Dec. 29, 2010, at age 75. Mike served Simpson University for several years as

senior resident director and associate of student life. He

also coached baseball, traveled with the men’s basketball

team, and coordinated Simpson’s first orientation class and ministry fair. The

Gowers mentored, counseled and discipled many students

and served as advisors to Simpson’s Asian population.

Parents of four sons, they also served together in church and pastoral ministries for 46 years.

Mike’s family requested that memorial contributions be

designated to the Michael S. and Caroline S. Gower Scholarship

Fund, established in 2003. Visit simpsonu.edu/giving.


2211 College View DriveRedding, CA 96003

Do you know someone who would benefit from a Simpson University education?Call us at 1-888-9-SIMPSON (1-888-974-6776) or visit online at www.simpsonu.edu.

ASimpson University’s annual scholarship banquet,

held at the Riverview Golf & Country Club in Redding on April 2, was an evening of 1920s decor and vintage attire, honoring the institution’s founding in 1921. The gala included a silent auction, dinner and guest speakers. Proceeds from the event benefit the Student Scholarship Fund. Learn about more ways to support students at simpsonu.edu/giving.

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Gateway Magazine Summer '11

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Transcript of Gateway Magazine Summer '11