cornerstone university alumni journal spring 2012

cornerstone university alumni journal • spring/summer 2012

raving fans

CORNERSTONE UNIVERSITY ALUMNI JOURNAL STAFF

Director of Alumni Relations: Darci Irwin (M.S. ’09)

Alumni Communications Specialist:Amanda (Kusneske) Lawrence (B.A. ’12)

Alumni Events & Programs Specialist: Josh Thayer (B.A. ‘11)

2011-2012 Alumni Relations Student Staff: Karissa Ryan (B.A. ’12)

Executive Director of Marketing & Communications: Bob Sack

Assistant Marketing Director: Katherine Felber

Art Director: Caroline Cahoon (B.A. ’03)

University Writer/Editor: Kelli Cottrell

Contributing Writer: Alyssa Helm

Contributing Photographers:Leah (Bailey) Furness (attended ’06-’10), Coastline Studios, Ryan Prins Photography, Lyzenga Photography

Alumni Board Leadership Team: Chairman: Rick Koole (B.R.E. ’70)Secretary: Terri (Burns) Fowler (B.A. ’81)

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION MISSION

The CU Alumni Association exists to serve alumni in their roles as influencers for Christ by developing connections, facilitating celebrations and encouraging contributions.

Founded in 1941, Cornerstone University is a Christ-centered institution of higher learning located in Grand Rapids, Mich. More than 2,700 students attend

Cornerstone’s undergraduate and graduate programs.

www.cornerstone.edu/alumni

The Cornerstone University Alumni Journal is produced three times annually through a partnership between the Alumni Relations and Marketing & Communications offices at Cornerstone University.

Permission to quote short portions of this publication is granted as long as content is preserved and proper credit is given to the Alumni Journal.

CONTACT US:When you e-mail us with updated contact information for the database, we will mail you a CU or GRTS Alumni window decal as a thank you gift. Visit www.cornerstone.edu/alumni; click on “Alumni Office” and then “Update Your Information.” Or simply e-mail us at [email protected].

If no internet access is available to you, please mail us at:Cornerstone UniversityOffice of Alumni Relations1001 E Beltline Ave NEGrand Rapids, MI 49525-5897Call us at 616.222.1669.

Cornerstone University does not discriminate on the basis of race, national origin, sex, age or disability in its policies and programs.

© 2012 Cornerstone University. All rights reserved.

WhAT’S iNSiDE 3 Letter from your Director of Alumni Relations

4 President’s Corner Dr. Joseph Stowell, president of Cornerstone University

5 News & Events • University News: Update on financial gifts to CU, the new baseball stadium and commencement.

• Academic News: New academic initiative with Kuyper College and the latest info from our faculty and staff.

• Alumni Events: Upcoming opportunities, including a CU alum Whitecaps game for you and your family this summer.

• homecoming 2012 – Celebrating 70 years of Loyalty Remember the best of fall and winter combined into one celebratory week!

10 Raving Fans Cornerstone Alumni Association celebrated Kate DeGraaf (B.A. ’08) and Penny Patterson (attended ’66-’68) and their contributions to the university as raving fans.

12 Feature Stories The Alumni Association honored alumni from each entity of the university during the first Winter Homecoming Gala in February. Read about these outstanding individuals and what they are doing today.

15 Alumni News See what your former classmates are doing.

17 Alumni Involvement Ways for you to participate in what’s happening at your alma mater!

oN thE CovER: Cornerstone University raving fans can be found at several events throughout the year. Check out upcoming events in this issue where you can show your pride.

Raving Fans • Spring/Summer 20123

as an alumni association, we love celebrating our alma mater with raving fans of Cornerstone University. Plus, we enjoy providing opportunities to connect with each other and show pride in our school.

Our vision is to continue to seek more raving fans of Cornerstone and, through events and communication, provide ways for those fans to express their loyalty.

We have watched how our raving fans produce a ripple effect of motivation and passion that positively affects the forward movement of CU/GRTS. In this issue of the Alumni Journal, we highlight some of those fans that were honored during Winter Homecoming and showcase some of the events our fans attended.

So what exactly is a raving fan?

Amanda (Kusneske) Lawrence, alumni communications specialist, can pick out a raving fan by their passion, zeal and how completely sold-out they are to Cornerstone. At Cornerstone, she recognizes our raving fans when they graduate and grasp Cornerstone’s central mission: to influence others for Christ. When an alum is committed to this and thrilled to share this with others, our vision becomes a reality. As a raving fan, Amanda hopes to play a vital role in helping to further not only the mission of Cornerstone, but the gospel of Christ as well.

Josh Thayer, alumni events and programs specialist, spots a raving fan by their commitment and how invested they are in something.

As a sports fan he follows current news and headlines, provides insights and gets involved in the endeavors that a specific team has set to accomplish – cheering them on the whole way! This is how he envisions a raving fan of Cornerstone University - one who is fired up about the mission of the institution; who seeks to carry out the mission; and is willing to assist with their talents, time and resources. Ultimately cheering on the university – the whole way!

We invite you to cheer loudly for CU and GRTS, and get involved in the life of your alma mater!

Celebrating our Raving Fans,

Darci Irwin (M.S. ’09)Director of Alumni Relations

DEAR ALUMNi FAMiLy,

Cornerstone University Alumni Journal 4

the alumni of cornerstone university know how to celebrate! As we said goodbye to the year 2011, the CU Alumni Association was finalizing plans for Homecoming Week 2012. February 12-18 was a week of reunions, memories, new friends, basketball, worship, and more.

One of my favorite events of the week was our first Winter Homecoming Gala at Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park. The Alumni team did a marvelous job planning this elegant event, and it was a full house! We were able to share the continuing story of God’s grace and blessings at Cornerstone, and together look forward to the exciting possibilities that lie ahead.

We are incredibly encouraged by the support and enthusiasm shown by our alumni and friends. What a blessing it is to have raving fans by our side! At Cornerstone University, we desire to always be deserving of your partnership, which is why we continue to work diligently toward our goals of discipling and equipping the next generation of Christ’s followers. We could not do this without you, so thank you!

Joe Stowell, president

DEAR ALUMNi FAMiLy,


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Beyond Baseball Updatebulldozers will begin construction on the new stadium in may as coaches wrap up their recruiting phase. a junior varsity team has been added due to the overwhelming interest from athletes wanting to play at cornerstone.

“We’ve had athletes apply from every state and canada,” said head coach dave mitroff.

teams will be ready for the stadium grand opening in august. for more details, visit www.cugoldeneagles.com.

Spring Phonathonthank you for participating in the Spring Student Phonathon and supporting our students through the Cornerstone Student Fund and Seminary Fund! Your gifts help offset tuition for 100 percent of our students and allow them to invest in a thriving community and build a life that matters

If you did not have a chance to give, or the student phonathon team missed you on the phone, please share your contribution at www.cornerstone.edu/give.

Professional & Graduate Studiescornerstone’s professional & graduate studies division hosted the ACG Cup Round 2 Competition on Feb. 25 on campus.

The Association for Corporate Growth (ACG) strives to empower and connect business students and members in the local community. The ACG Cup is a regional competition that encourages graduate business students to gain not only an understanding of acquisitions and mergers but also allows students to gain valuable experience in the field while networking with local business leaders.

Cornerstone’s M.B.A. students Stephanie Brooks, Ben Lampen and David VanDyke combined their efforts to represent CU in the competition. We are proud of their accomplishments and hope you join us in congratulating them.

For more information about the M.B.A. program, visit pgs.cornerstone.edu.

Grand Rapids Theological Seminarygrts says fareWell to two Old Testament professors retiring this spring. Dr. David Kennedy, associate professor of Old Testament, and Dr. John Lawlor, professor of Old Testament, have impacted the lives of countless students. Dr. Kennedy, a former Army chaplain, has taught classes in O.T. exegesis and interpretation at GRTS since 1980. Dr. Lawlor has significant experience in middle eastern archaeological excavation and taught Hebrew and O.T. exegesis classes at GRTS since 1999. The GRTS community wishes them both a wonderful retirement after many years of faithful and fruitful service to the seminary.


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Help Create Scholarshipsat cornerstone, we aspire to create a thriving community of fully devoted followers of Jesus in a spiritually contagious, academically excellent, richly resourced and culturally diverse learning environment that attracts outstanding students, faculty and staff who influence our world for Christ, His Church and His Kingdom.

You can be part of this vision by establishing or supporting scholarships that help to advance knowledge and transform the lives of our students... our heritage!

We would love to help you create a scholarship. For more information, please call Robin Halsted at 616.254.1668.New

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New Academic Initiative with Kuyper

GRTS established a consortium agreement with Kuyper College, allowing Kuyper’s pre-seminary students to complete a course of study at both institutions. The successful student will achieve two degrees, a bachelor of science from Kuyper and a master of divinity from GRTS. For more information on the program, visit grts.cornerstone.edu.

Dr. Matt Bonzo, professor of philosophy, presented a paper on culture and identity at an annual academic conference at Lithuania Christian College, March 22-24.

Dr. Kerisa Myers wrote an article entitled “Child Care on Higher Education Campuses: Director Perceptions of Internal and External Roles and Director of Leadership.” This article,

based on Dr. Myers dissertation, was published in the NCCC (National Coalition for Campus Children’s Centers) Journal: The Voice for Children on Campus in July 2011.

Dr. Rick Ostrander, provost, presented a paper entitled “Educating Students for Service and Ministry,” at the “Educating for Vocation: From the Academy to the Church” conference

in Georgetown College, Georgetown.

Dr. Ostrander also visited the Asia Biblical Theological Seminary (ABTS) in Chiang Mai, Thailand in January. ABTS is a subsidiary of Cornerstone University that extends our educational mission to prepare graduates to influence the cultures of the world for Christ. Dr. Ostrander met with the faculty and staff of ABTS, attended classes with students, and engaged in strategic planning with the ABTS dean, Mr. Jim Blumenstock, concerning the future expansion of the seminary.

Dr. Michael Pasquale, associate professor of linguistics, gave the plenary address at a Christian TESOL Conference in Philadelphia in March.

Dr. Brad Stamm, division chair of business, appeared on WOOD TV 8 and FOX TV Feb. 6, 7 regarding the university’s new non-profit administration major. He has also conducted

many interviews on WOOD radio and WOOD TV relating to gas prices and the economy. Dr. Stamm is scheduled to release a book, “Faithonomics,” in April 2012.

Peter van Dessel, associate professor of music, will perform the first movement of Stravinsky’s Concerto for Piano and Wind

Instruments on April 18 at St. Cecilia Music Society, with the Cornerstone University Symphonic Winds under the direction of Dr. Joan van Dessel, assistant professor of music.

Faculty & Staff News


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Commencementthe alumni association is pleased to welcome new alumni into the graduating class of 2012 during this year’s commencement ceremonies, May 4-6! Alumni are invited to attend the ceremonies in the Hansen Athletic Center: Friday, May 4 at 7 p.m. (GRTS Commencement); Saturday, May 5 at 10 a.m. (Traditional Undergraduate Commencement); and Saturday, May 5 at 3 p.m. (PGS Commencement). For more information, please visit www.cornerstone.edu/commencement.

PRC LifeWalkcornerstone university Will host the Pregnancy Resource Center (PRC) annual LifeWalk this year on June 16. In recognition of the incredible ministry of PRC, as well as the number of alumni who have given time and resources through the years, the Alumni Relations Office invites you to participate in the walk and attend a free brunch following the event. Celebrate the work God is doing through this organization and enjoy a time of fellowship together. Register and find more information about the LifeWalk at www.cornerstone.edu/lifewalk.

Big Ticket Festivaljoin us at this year’s Big Ticket Festival, June 14-16 in Allegan, Mich! Cornerstone University and your Alumni Association has once again partnered with the Big Ticket Festival to provide alumni and friends with a special VIP experience. Alumni receive a discounted ticket price, reunion opportunities and daily drawings for some awesome prizes. Please visit, www.cornerstone.edu/btf for more information.

Whitecaps GamehoW Would you like to enjoy some West Michigan baseball – some popcorn, a soda, ball park food – all on a warm summer evening? We would like to take you, and your family, out to the ballgame. Join your Alumni Association in July at Fifth Third Ball Park for an evening full of family fun as we cheer on the West Michigan Whitecaps. Keep watch for information to come on the website as well as the eNewsletter. Play ball!

AthleticsWant to keep up-to-date on all things athletics here

at CU? Subscribe to The Talon, a monthly eNewsletter

sent out by our athletics department. You can also view

recent issues online! cugoldeneagles.com/f/Talon.php Twitter: @CUathletics Facebook: Cornerstone University Athletics


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ALUMNA iNvOLvEMENT: PENNy PATTERSON (attended ’66-’68)penny patterson is best known at Cornerstone University as “Campus Mom.” She attended CU from 1966-1968, but left to get married in December 1968 to allow her husband to continue his education.

She has been a constant presence around Cornerstone since 2005 when she joined a student trip as a mentor. Since that trip she has participated in four trips to Greece, three trips to India, has been a CU facilitator for Terra Firma, mentors students one-on-one, and has developed a ministry to the resident assistants and directors on campus.

She received the first Alumna involvement Award this year at the Winter Homecoming Gala.

She believes God has blessed her by giving her the opportunity to be on campus, travel with students, and build lasting, meaningful relationships.

“I just obeyed His call knowing He wanted me here,” she said. “He has given me a love and passion for college students.”


yOUNg ALUMNA: KATE DEgRAAF (B.A. ’08)kate degraaf received the young Alumna of the year Award from Cornerstone University at the Homecoming Gala Feb. 17.

The 2008 graduate holds a degree in elementary education with an emphasis in language arts and reading.

She currently works at Grand Valley State University as the graduate assistant of leadership and service. Through workshops, statewide leadership conferences and other leadership events, she has had the opportunity to minister to students of various backgrounds and reflect the love of Christ.

“Cornerstone helped me grow not only intellectually, but spiritually,” DeGraaf said of her time at CU. “I made life-long friends and connected with mentors who have continued to support, encourage, challenge and pray for me.”


cornerstone hosted our annual Winter homecoming the second week of February. it was a blessing to see god at work and exemplified in all those involved – from our alumni volunteers and attendees, to our faculty, staff and students. Building upon homecoming history, traditions were strengthened while new ones were established.

Alumni, current students, staff and faculty presented many opportunities for involvement in this year’s homecoming week. Events included a homecoming Kick-off party, our first annual From Class to Calling (an event connecting students and alumni), chapels, lunches, Battle of the Bands, basketball games and the first Winter homecoming gala at Frederik Meijer gardens & Sculpture Park.

From Class to Calling

< Paul Doane (B.R.E. ’74), in front, and Katie Rose (B.A. ’06), in center, take time to listen and mentor current students.

< Sarah Keith (B.A. ’06) greets students at her mentoring table during the event.

From Class to CallingOur first From Class to Calling, hosted by Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE), Spiritual Formation and Alumni Relations, was a hit. Students had the opportunity to interact and network with alumni who have gone before them in their respective fields of study and glean insights and advice as they pursue their preferred vocations.

Battle of the BandsThe 3rd Annual Battle of the Bands drew a crowd. Four bands including CU alumna Kelsey (Rottiers) Pray (B.Mus. ‘08) showcased their skills.


Winter Homecoming GalaFellowship, great conversation, worship and recognition of some outstanding alumni were a few highlights of the first Winter Homecoming Gala.

Athletics Hall of HonorCornerstone University honored some of its outstanding athletes at the Hall of Honor Inductee Banquet at Thousand Oaks Country Club. The following Golden Eagles were inducted Feb. 16: Erin (Courtright) Clason (B.S. ’01) – Cross Country/Track & Field; Melissa (Strohmaier) Hyder (B.A. ’05) – Women’s Soccer; Charlie Selmon (B.R.E. ’74) – Men’s Basketball; and Wayne (M.Div. ’78) and Diane Dalman – Golden Eagle Club Members.

CU BasketballStudents, staff, faculty and alumni had the opportunity to cheer on the Golden Eagles during homecoming basketball games. The men’s team walked away with a win against No. 3 ranked Davenport University. It was a great day to be a Golden Eagle!

Pictured above (bottom left to top right): Athletics Hall of Honor inductees Wayne and Diane Dalman, Erin Clason, Melissa Hyder, and Charlie Selmon.


gRTS SPOTLighT: DANiEL TREiR (Th.M. ’98)dr. daniel treir, received the grand Rapids Theological Seminary Alumnus of the year Award at the Winter Homecoming Gala Feb. 17 at Frederik Meijer Gardens.

He currently serves as associate professor of theology at Wheaton College in Illinois, where he has taught since 2001. He received both his master of divinity and master of theology from Grand Rapids Theological Seminary.

He has authored two books: “Introducing Theological Interpretation of Scripture: Rediscovering a Christian Practice” and “Virtue and the Voice of God: Toward Theology as Wisdom.” He has also authored numerous articles and served as associate editor and co-editor on several other projects.

“I’m grateful for encouragement and respect from my alma mater, for which I care deeply,” he said. “I’m committed afresh to finishing a lifetime of faithful ministry rather than starting well and ending poorly.”

Treier currently resides in the Wheaton area with his wife, Amy, and daughter, Anna Rene.

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PgS SPOTLighT: LESLiE MOShER (A.S. ’00, B.S. ’02, M.S. ’04)dr. leslie mosher, founder of a nonprofit organization called Surprised by Hope, received the Professional and graduate Studies Program Alumnus of the year Award in February during the Winter Homecoming Gala.

The organization she founded provides biblically-based business training and education, organizational development and spiritual ministry to East Africans and the ministries that serve them. She spends half the year in Uganda and half the year in Grand Rapids.

This accomplishment was made possible by her late husband, she said. After almost 20 years of marriage, Mosher’s husband died unexpectedly, which forced her to re-imagine her future and passionately pursue God’s plan for her new life. The result was a series of short-term mission trips that led to a full-time commitment to missions.

“The truth is that without him, or without his death, I would not be doing what I’m doing today,” she said. “Even in death he continues to leave this legacy in my life, which is bittersweet.”

Mosher earned an associates degree, a bachelors degree and a masters degrees from Cornerstone University.

For more about her ministry, visit www.surpisedbyhope.org.


UNDERgRAD SPOTLighT: RyAN DAviS (B.A. ’04)ryan davis graduated from Cornerstone University in 2004 and served on staff as director of community life before he died unexpectedly in May 2011.

He was known around campus as a man of God, filled with passion, humor and a genuine concern for everyone around him.

He loved history, philosophy, good movies, video games, motorcycles, his hundreds of friends, and family, especially his wife Emilie. The influence he had on Cornerstone University students is extraordinary, and his impact continues to echo across CU’s campus.

This year, on his behalf, his wife accepted the Traditional Undergraduate Alumnus of the year Award for him.

“I’m so pleased that the Alumni Committee picked my Ryan to honor this year,” she said. “He loved students and was hungry to learn and share with them. He had a passion to reach people.”

Ryan Davis (B.A. ’04) is pictured in the center.

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1990sPete (B.A. ’95) and Jill (Moes) Wilson (attended ’93-’95) welcomed their ninth child, Louisa Renae Wilson, into their family on Nov. 24, 2011.

Keith (B.A. ’95) and Bethany Kirkman welcomed their first child, Keith Connor into their family on Jan. 13, 2011.

Jason (B.A. ’98) and Terra (Knoop) Wesseldyk (B.A. ’98) welcomed their third child, McKenna Leigh, into their family on April 20, 2011.

2000sAndrew and Bridgette (Zerfas) Bassford (B.A. ’03) welcomed their first child, Violet Patricia, into their family on Jan. 20, 2012.

Joe (B.A. ’04) and Jessica (Waskiewicz) Bigley (B.A. ’04) welcomed their first child, Jordan Thomas, into their family on Sept. 9, 2011.

Aaron and Danae (Nelson; B.Mus. ’04) Bouwman welcomed their first child, Grace Lorraine, into their family on April 27, 2011. Lorraine was chosen in memory of Aaron’s grandma who passed away two weeks before Grace was born.

Frank and Monika (Berger) Owsley (B.A. ’04) welcomed their fourth child, Paul Logan, into their family on April 5, 2011.

Noah (B.S. ’04; M.A. ’09) and Jennifer (good; B.Mus. ’05) Filipiak welcomed their first child, Lexi Hope, into their family on Nov. 21, 2011.

Ryan (B.A. ’06) and Katie (Casault; B.A. ’07) Bibb welcomed their third child, Gabriella Kate, into their family on Dec. 15, 2011.

Luke (B.S. ’06) and Paige Miller welcomed their first child, Eason Charles, into their family on Dec. 15, 2011.

Jim (B.S. ’06) and Melissa (Wahl; B.A. ’06) van Stensel welcomed their first child, Liam James, into their family on Jan. 7, 2012.

Dan and Melissa Finkbeiner (M.S. ’08) welcomed their second child, Adelyn Hope, into their family on Jan. 11, 2012.

Jared (B.S. ’10) and Calista (Sherwood; B.A. ’10) Doty welcomed their first child, Nora Joy, into their family on Feb. 25, 2012.

Stephen (B.A. ’10) and Nancy Winkelman welcomed their first child, Esme Sophia, into their family on Feb. 26, 2012.

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ogether as alumni, you are influencing the lives of people for jesus christ all over the globe. thank you for sharing the ways in which you are doing this and for keeping us up to date on the happenings in your life.

When you share new arrivals to your family, we will send you a “Future CU Alum” baby bib.

New Events & Programs SpecialistWe’re pleased to introduce our new Alumni Events & Programs Specialist, alumnus Josh Thayer (B.S. ’11)! In this role, Josh will provide leadership to all aspects of alumni events and programs that attract, serve, reunite and motivate alumni to become involved in their alma mater. Josh is an avid sports fan and loves spending time with his wife, Alyssa (Morrow, B.A. ’11).

2000sZachary and Jodi (Borden; attended ’07-’08) Mayne were married Nov. 19, 2011.

Philip and Terri (Miedema; B.A. ’10) Miller were married Dec. 22, 2010.

When you share your union, we will send you two metal alumni association luggage tags to celebrate your future travels together.


1970sRobert Davies (B.R.E. ’73; M.Div. ’77) completed 30 years of ministry as pastor of Immanuel Baptist Church in Greencastle, Indiana. He and his wife, Diane (Ecklesdafer) Davies (attended ’72-’74), plan to serve as pulpit supply and interim pastoring in retirement along with enjoying two grandchildren and some fishing.

Ron Sheveland (B.A. ’76) authored “The Potluck People.” Full of humor and inspiration, it is a novel about quirky church life in the small town of Meanwhile, Mich. You can learn more at www.potluckpeople.com.

1980sAndy grenier (B.R.E. ’81) is currently pursuing a doctor of ministry degree from Corban University School of Ministry in Tacoma, Wash. He currently serves as pastor of First Baptist Church of Moses Lake, Wash.

1990sSteven DeWitt (B.R.E. ’90; M.T.S. ’92) recently authored a book titled “Eyes Wide Open: Enjoying God in Everything.” In this book, DeWitt guides the reader on a personal journey to understanding God’s purposes for our joy and wonder. You can learn more at www.thejourney.fm/products.

2000sJessica (Waskiewicz) Bigley (B.A. ’04) earned a master’s degree in educational leadership with an emphasis in higher education. She is employed as an advisor in the Lee Honors College at Western Michigan University.

Ryan Bibb (B.A. ’06) earned a master of arts in pastoral counseling from Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary in May 2011.

Jessica Kast-Keat (B.S. ’06) was ordained on Jan. 29, 2012 to the office of Minister of Word and Sacrament in the Reformed Church in America.

Crystal (Richards) Kitten (B.A. ’07) recently was hired as director of Collins Residence Hall at Baylor University.

Kory Chesser (B.S. ’11) serves as the youth director at Highland Hope UMC in Illinois.

When you share a milestone, we will send you a CU alumni association cell phone holder.

ShARE yOUR NEWS

We are eager to hear from the rest of you! share events in your life, including answers

to prayer; professional accomplishments – none are too small; books authored; albums released; graduate degrees or awards; honors received; additions to your

family; alumni to honor.

www.cornerstone.edu/shareyournews

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R 1950sDr. J. Edward hakes, former president of Cornerstone University from 1954-1958, went to be with the Lord on Feb. 23, 2012. Dr. Hakes was a champion for high academic standards for Christian colleges and universities before it was a popular notion. He believed that academic rigor and inquiry should be applied to matters of faith and social responsibility for Christians. He influenced many notable faculty members and students during his career.

1960sglen Ozinga (B.R.E. ’66) went to be with the Lord on Jan. 21, 2012. Glen served as a missionary in Liberia from 1957-1965; while there he organized a Liberian church, spearheaded agricultural programs to help Liberians become self-sufficient, and taught and served as superintendent of the day school in Suakoko.


Alumni Award Nominations & Faculty Hall of Honor“Outdo one another in showing honor.” (Romans 12:10b)

We are thrilled to celebrate each of the alumni award recipients featured in this Alumni Journal. As we look ahead to Homecoming 2013, we invite you to nominate alumni who fit the criteria of the seven alumni awards and your most admired faculty for the Hall of Honor. View the criteria for our awards on our nomination form at www.cornerstone.edu/alumniawards.

coming in june, a NEW giving program is

being launched specifically for alumni!

We are encouraging all alumni to financially invest in

the institution that empowered them to be influencers

in our world for Christ by contributing the dollars

and cents that represent their graduation year. For

example, if you graduated in 2001, we invite you

to give $20.01, or move the decimal point and give

$200.10 or $2,001. You can give a one-time, monthly or

annual gift.

Cornerstone University and Grand Rapids Theological

Seminary has a rich heritage of equipping students

with biblical truths to influence the world for Christ.

As alumni, no one knows this better than you! Your

financial gift shapes the future of your institution,

helps us enroll top students and supports the highest

quality of faculty and staff. Look for more information

about this program in the next Alumni Journal!

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ENT one of the Ways we love to celebrate our

alumni is by sharing their stories with other alum! Do you have a favorite memory, a major theme, or a specific experience you remember from your college days? Take a minute to share your story with us. We’ll send you a special-edition “Your Story” bookmark in response! Visit www.cornerstone.edu/sharestory today!

Share your story to receive one of these bookmarks from the Alumni Association!

GIvE yoUR

Early EnrollmentknoW a student looking for a college to attend? Let him or her know Cornerstone is the place to get a JUMP START on college. Juniors and seniors in high school can take early enroll classes before they graduate. Courses are offered in the fall and spring.

By getting a couple of college courses completed early, students will get a feel for life at CU – and be better prepared to enter the college world.

Contact:[email protected]

Refer a student online and receive a free CU pennant!


Evangelical Choral Societyattention singers! Have you ever wanted to sing great choral masterworks accompanied by a professional orchestra? Do you miss the old college days when September meant the start of another run of Choral Society rehearsals? The Evangelical Choral Society is looking for singers to join them for a Fall Concert scheduled for Nov. 18, 2012. Rehearsals run every Tuesday evening from 7 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. beginning Sept. 4.

Founded over 30 years ago by Dr. Richard Stewart, the Evangelical Choral Society presents outstanding choral concerts as a free gift to the Grand Rapids community. If you are interested in joining the Choral Society family, please contact the director at [email protected] to arrange an audition. For more details about the ensemble, and for opportunities to contribute financially to this music ministry, please visit www.ecs-gr.org.

Attention GRTS Alumni!no one knoWs the value of a great seminary education better than you. Do you know anyone who might be interested in attending GRTS? Submit their names and contact info at www.cornerstone.edu/refer-GRTS-student and we’ll send you an exclusive GRTS alumni gift as a thank you!

CU onlinecornerstone university offers more than just an onsite, classroom learning environment. You can earn a variety of degrees online. Find out how, at www.online.cornerstone.edu.

Get Involved Formour alumni have made our campus what it is today. We’d love to invite you back to get involved here at CU – fill out our online “Get Involved” form and your name will be entered in a monthly drawing to receive a free CU or GRTS sweatshirt!

www.cornerstone.edu/alumni/contribute/get_involved_form/get_involved

www.CUBooksOnline.com

visit us at www.CUBooksOnline.com

SPECiAL NEWS FOR ThE UNDERgRADUATE CLASSES OF 2011, 2007 & 2002!A key to any quality Alumni Association is listening. So in an effort to listen and evaluate Cornerstone’s effectiveness in preparing you for the marketplace and ministry, three surveys are being administered next month for alumni who graduated one, five and 10 years ago. The survey will seek to determine if your education adequately prepared you for your chosen field, prepared you for service in local church community and prepared you for a path of life-long learning. It also invites you to suggest modifications for the curriculum or co-curriculum and asks how we can better serve you during your current involvement with CU. This survey will be administered annually in May to allow all alumni an opportunity to respond.

cornerstone university alumni journal spring 2012

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