Contents

President’s Perspective...... 4 Lion Pride...... 5 I Blew It!...... 6 Campus Connection...... 8 Bridging London...... 14 To the One...... 16 Athletic News...... 18 World Communication Center and Mabee Grant...... 20 SAGU Lions to become first US The Making of 14 AG missionaries to London “To Every Nation”...... 24 Class Notes...... 28

AVAILABLE ONLINE ON l Special Content iTUNES AMAZON As you read, watch for the following icons. They indicate special content available only online.

About Today Magazine spring 2012 • Vol 15 Issue 3

SAGU Today is a publication of Southwestern Assemblies of God Graphic Design & Layout: Clint James Perez, Ryan McElhany DIGITAL EDITION: Ricky Ramirez, Ryan McElhany University, a non-profit institution of higher learning. Contributing Writers: Christina Freeze, Ryan McElhany, Statement of Purpose: The purpose of Southwestern Assemblies of MANAGING Editor: Shannon Hicks, Chantal Jules, Morgan Shaeffer God University is to prepare undergraduate and graduate students Ryan McElhany, Director of Marketing and Public Relations Ryan McElhany, Rachel Sanderlin, spiritually, academically, professionally and cross-culturally so as Photography: to successfully fill evangelistic, missionary and church ministry ASSOCIATE Editor: Christina Freeze, Landon Perry, Elizabeth Monsivais, Digital Christina Freeze, Public Relations Coordinator Media Embedded Journalists roles and to provide quality ­educational and professional Christian service wherever needed throughout the world.

Leave Your Mark - 3 President’s perspective

hen SAGU purchased the college, to college, to university. Waxahachie campus in 1943, the To borrow from the imagery on the cover of total cost was $50,000. Adjusted this magazine–here we stand only twelve years forW inflation, that would be $800,000 into a new century, a new millennium–and we today (Bureau of Labor Statistics). When I are still scaling taller mountains. Each time we was selected as president in 1999, the total reach the top, we survey our progress, only to operating budget was $11.9 million and look toward taller mountains in the distance. the total valuation of the campus was $13.7 If you have ever watched a travel documentary million. Today, the total operating budget or movie about mountain climbing, you know is $34.1 million and the valuation after the that it takes determination and teamwork to construction of the World Communication reach the summit. I am proud to be scaling Center (WCC) will be $62 million. these mountains with dedicated faculty and Even with those numbers in mind, I stand in staff and generous and caring alumni and awe at how miraculously the Lord has provided friends, who share my belief that our greatest Kermit S. Bridges, D.Min. over the last 12 months. As reported in the days lie ahead. President last issue, within a span of a few short months in 2011 SAGU received $7.8 million in gifts, MABEE FOUNDATION $5.1 million of which was designated toward The next step in this journey is the the WCC. Since that issue, SAGU has received acquisition of a challenge grant approved by an additional $4.3 million toward the WCC the Mabee Foundation (read more on page thanks to two phenomenal gifts. 23). The Mabee Foundation blessed SAGU with a $650,000 grant toward the Sheaffer Charitable GIFTS FROM FRIENDS LIKE DR. JOHN Full Life Center in 1997 and a $900,000 AND DIANA HAGEE grant toward Teeter Hall in 2006. This past Gift Annuities First, Dr. John and Diana Hagee have made March we submitted a new grant proposal to an incredible $2.5 million commitment to the Mabee Foundation and on April 10 their In trying to create new avenues for the university. What a blessing for this dear board issued a $1 million challenge grant to friend and alumnus to step up and help make SAGU for the WCC. We now have until April our donors, SAGU offers a Charitable the vision of the WCC a reality! Second, the of 2013 to raise a remaining $3 million. Join amazing family who contributed $2 million to with me in praying that God will speak to men Gift Annuity program. With this new a scholarship fund and $5 million to the WCC and women during this next year to help push program, you can give and receive! last September, have contributed an additional SAGU over the top. $1.8 million for the WCC. We believe the Charitable Gift Annuities have become timing of these gifts is providential in view of SPREAD THE MESSAGE the recent news from the Mabee Foundation. Our story is a blessed one. And our efforts the most popular gifting vehicles in Suddenly, the remaining funds needed to toward “The whole Gospel for the whole complete this project and lay claim to Mabee’s world” continue through efforts such as today’s volatile market. The Charitable $1 million challenge grant are within reach. Mission TEN (To Every Nation) and the “To Twelve months ago, I had no idea how the Every Nation” documentary. Gift Annuity with SAGU Foundation WCC project could be funded, given the fact Our job as advocates and alumni of SAGU it would be the most expensive construction is to tell that story boldly. You can do that is fixed for life. Your lifetime payment project in school history (details on page 20). in a number of ways. Take a few moments I am convinced that our Board’s enthusiastic to view just one segment of the enclosed amount is dependable and unaffected support of this project and their faith in DVD. You will be so impressed by the authorizing up to $8 million in financing one ministry and passion of our students, as well by economic downturns. Establish a year ago set the stage for these miraculous gifts as their technical skills in the creation of this and financial commitments. God’s favor and documentary. Perhaps you will find a segment CGA for yourself, or anyone you choose, provision have been so evident. beneficial for use in your local church. I with a charitable donation of $10,000 encourage you to share a segment in a Sunday MOVING FORWARD School class, small group or church missions or more. You may choose either a Alumni from ten years ago recall a campus service. Pass it along to someone else to view–a without Teeter and Bridges Halls. Alumni from prospective student, a parent, or someone who Single Life or a Joint and Survivor twenty years ago recall a campus without the would be encouraged by the vision of Mission Sheaffer Full Life Center. And alumni from TEN. Perhaps you can sow into the lives of Annuity. You may also choose to defer the 1950s remember a campus with just a few students who would benefit from the education buildings adjacent to cotton fields. Similarly, that SAGU provides. You can certainly pray payment for a ­higher annuity rate. alumni from various generations can recall and be an advocate for SAGU. Enjoy this very SAGU’s journey from high school, to junior special issue! n

4 - Today Magazine These are exciting days to and young entrepreneurs. I also think of those whose years be a part of the SAGU family. of service outnumber many of our youngest alumni’s years of As you can tell from the cover life. They continue to contribute to the Kingdom and have story of the magazine in your some wonderful stories to share, to boot. hand, remarkable things that Our alma mater is not just bricks and mortar, or even are happening around the ideals alone, but a community. A group of people dedicated world are beginning right here to the same ambition of service in their communities. And in Waxahachie. The Mission in all of those areas – buildings, institutions and people–we Devin Ferguson TEN documentary is really have something to be very proud of. As you read this issue of Alumni Director only the tip of the iceberg. As SAGU Today, I hope you, too, feel some of that Purple and you read this issue, you will Gold Pride. notice that current and former We know that we haven’t even begun to hear all of the SAGU Lions are standing head and shoulders above the rest remarkable things our alumni are doing around the world, in their respective places of service. and we can only know when you tell us. That’s why we want The idea that “every believer is a minister” has been a part you to stay in touch with us. Let us know about the big of SAGU’s mission since it was first founded by P.C. Nelson changes and exciting events that are shaping your life after 85 years ago. It continues to be a value that our students SAGU. We want to share them with your friends, and brag and alumni champion as they serve Christ’s Kingdom. on you too! You can update us at www.sagu.edu/update. In This is evidenced by our alumni who have left Enid and addition to spreading the news, completing this form will Amarillo, Goose Creek, Houston and Fort Worth, and also ensure that you receive the monthly edition of “The now Waxahachie, to pursue Kingdom service wherever the Lion’s Pride,” our official alumni newsletter, and stay up to opportunity presented itself. Their pulpits are not only found date on information about the campus, your friends, as well in churches but also in classrooms, law firms, accounting as Homecoming and special events in your area. offices, nonprofit organizations and coffee shops. And, the list goes on. JOIN US FOR HOMECOMING 2012 I consider the great opportunity that I have been given to Mark your calendars now and make plans to attend take a front row seat and observe Lions in action, in their Homecoming 2012, October 11-13, as we celebrate 50 element, changing the world. In reality, the number of stories years of Homecoming. We will give special recognition to we could share with you far exceeds the available print space! the class of 1962, the 50th Celebration of the Gold Jackets Organization, a Davis Hall reunion, and much more. You SHARE YOUR STORIES will not want to miss it! I can’t help but smile when I hear stories of our fellow As we gear up for our annual tour of our District Councils Lions positively influencing their communities for Christ. I in the region, I look forward to seeing many of you face-to- think of church planters, missionaries, law school graduates face and hearing your stories! n

Leave Your Mark - 5 Atomic fireballs in a pre-school Easter egg hunt, a daily in my ministry and my walk with “10 Plagues of Egypt” reenactment tour, living on a Christ.” billboard and living blind. The mastermind? None In 1998, Dollar founded High Voltage other than SAGU alumnus Brian Dollar. Kids Ministry Resources, which provides Dollar came to SAGU in 1991 in hopes of becoming kids church curriculum, music, games and a senior pastor. He immediately became involved with videos for churches, without replacing Oak Cliff Assembly of God (now The Oaks Fellowship) the pastor or teacher. The materials are and started directing a youth intern group. Soon after, affordable, low-prep and low-hassle. he was asked to serve as the children’s pastor interim At a critical point in his ministry, until the church could hire a new pastor. Dollar learned to stop seeing children as future leaders and He volunteered as a children’s pastor for three years before decided to equip them for leadership at a young age. The next he decided to approach the senior pastor about a youth leader year he created a summer ministry leadership program for position. Like so many, Dollar had his future planned – he children called C.I.A., “Christians In Action.” Eventually he would climb the ministry ladder from youth leader to senior created F.B.I., “Fabulous Bible Investigators,” a six-week course pastor. Little did he know the plans God had in store for him. that teaches kids how to be servant leaders, read their Bibles, Before his meeting with the pastor, he stopped to pray. In pray, share their faith and make disciples. that moment, God clearly spoke to him, “I want you to remain Education alone would never prepare him for his experience in children’s ministry.” He has been a in ministry. In 2012, Brian released children’s pastor ever since. “I Blew It!” through AG’s Influence On February 26, 1989, a rebellious Resources. Dollar recounts the 15-year-old Dollar knelt at his biggest mistakes he made in his 20 parents’ beside and surrendered his years of kids ministry and shares how life to Christ. Later, he felt the Lord to avoid them. calling him to ministry. “I have read many books relating “SAGU prepared me to value the to kids ministry, and so many come Word of God and to develop strong from the angle of ‘learning from the spiritual disciplines,” Dollar said. expert,”’ writes Dollar. “That’s not “What I learned at SAGU the book I wanted to write.” helps me “Although I have been a kids pastor for nearly 20 years now, I in no way consider myself an ‘expert.’ I have failed more times than I can count, but ‘Failure is never final.’” He shares his philosophy about ministry, strategy and communication, but more importantly, he talks about the deeper qualities of fear and hope, pride and humility. He discusses team building and recruitment, parental involvement, keeping your strengths in check, and

6 - Today Magazine “What do atomic fireballs in a kindergarten Easter egg hunt, a 10 Plagues of Egypt reenactment tour, living on a billboard and living blind have in common?”

radical dependence on God. been a featured speaker at many ministry Pastoral Ministries from SAGU in 1995. He “I hope my experiences encourage readers conferences, seminars, camps and retreats. His has been a children’s pastor since 1992. He to be honest about their mistakes, but even curriculum and media resources have been and his wife, Cherith, have been married for more, I hope to inspire them to cling to God used in more than 5,000 churches worldwide. 14 years and have two children, Ashton and more tightly than ever,” he continued. “I think one of the biggest benefits of being Jordan. Dollar said that his biggest struggle in a ‘lifer’ is that I am able to speak from years of Dollar has served at The Oaks Fellowship ministry is making a daily decision to stop experience in the same ministry area,” Dollar in Dallas, Texas (1992 – 1999) and First being self-reliant and become God-reliant. shared. Assembly of God in North Little Rock He shared, “It’s too easy to rely on ministry He continued, “I have watched kidmin (NLR), Arkansas (1999 – present). Under skill, technique or tools to carry me through. (kid’s ministry) evolve and become the hotbed his leadership, First NLR’s children’s ministry It’s difficult to crucify my pride, connect daily of ministry that it is today. I am able to speak has grown from an average weekly attendance with my Heavenly Father, and remember that directly into the lives of today’s kidmin leaders of 200 to over 600 children with a volunteer He is the vine and I am a mere branch.” as ‘one of them’ and not as someone who did staff of over 150. In addition to his book, Dollar blogs children’s ministry once upon a time. I have a View his blog at www.briandollar.com. n weekly to answer questions and coach kid’s credibility that only comes with longevity.” ministry leaders around the world. He has Dollar received his bachelor’s degree in

Buy your copy online at www.highvoltage-kids.com or on iBooks, Kindle or Nook.

Leave Your Mark - 7 Campus Connection

Alumnus leads opening prayer for U.S. Congress Alumnus Bryan Thiessen was selected by in office. He contacted Thiessen shortly southern Missouri who was a ‘C’ average Pennsylvania Congressman Tim Murphy after the event. student, who was barely accepted into (18th district) to give the invocation for the “After reading other prayers on the SAGU, could lead the U.S. Congress in U.S. Congress on Monday, December 5, congressional chaplains website, I noticed prayer.” 2011. that previous prayers seldom, if ever, quoted Thiessen is the lead pastor at Journey Thiessen says, “This was an incredible Scripture, mentioned anything in regards Assembly of God in Bridgeville, honor! It will go down as one of the greatest to Romans or Hebrews 13, or prayed for Pennsylvania. He is earning a Master of days of my life.” our enemies. I wanted my prayer to include Divinity at Gordon-Conwell Theological Thiessen met Congressman Murphy those things, and acknowledge that the only Seminary and earned his bachelor’s degree during a community day event last July that Name through whom man can be saved is in Pastoral Ministries from SAGU. His Journey Assembly of God participated in. Jesus Christ.” wife CaRanda also graduated from SAGU With more than 400 congressmen, Murphy “This was truly an opportunity of a with a bachelor’s in Psychology and plans was allowed to select a minister for the daily lifetime!” says Thiessen. “It was very to return to SAGU to earn a master’s invocation for the first time during his time humbling to think that a farm boy from degree. n Students raise more than $24,000 for giving project Students and sponsors raised $24,105 for add teachers as the school grows each year. halls. Student of each dorm placed the fall semester giving project, surpassing The school will operate as a community containers throughout the building to the $22,000 goal. All proceeds went toward center for the town as well as a meeting collect money during the week. Over the building of a school for the Tukulor place for the church plant.” $6,000 dollars was raised from the people in Matam, Senegal. The 5K Matam Run took place on competition. SAGU’s Student Missions Association October 29, 2011, on the SAGU campus. “This is more than SAGU has given (SMA) partnered with alumna Amy to The event raised a total of $5,000. in a single semester to any project,” says raise money for the Matam Project. SMA Student also donated money during Director of Missions Chad Germany. hosted several events to raise money for the chapel services. The SAGU family alone SMA treasurer Mary Duong notes that cause, including the 5K Matam Run, raised $17,105. For one particular chapel on the last pick-up many were worried Teeter Coffee House, t-shirt sales and the service, Dallas First Assembly of God, about reaching the goal. “After the Matam collection of donations. under the leadership of Pastor Tom Run we had raised $15,000, which left “Once I return to Africa in June 2012, I McMahan, made a pledge to match the another $7,000 to be raised in one week.” will be partnering with the national church amount that students gave. Students gave “God has brought us to the next level,” in Senegal to build a team of Senegalese $1,487, while the church surpassed their says Duong. “This shows how passionate believers for each church plant,” Amy commitment and raised $2,000. students are about what God is doing.” n shared. “Each team will consist of a pastor, SMA also encouraged a Buddy Barrel school director, and two teachers. We will competition between dorms and individual

8 - Today Magazine Psychology department hosts HopeLine Crisis Call Center The Psychology department “It’s a big responsibility knowing that participated in SAGU’s HopeLine we may be talking someone out of a Crisis Call Center. TheHopeLine is a life-threatening situation. However, it’s a 24-hour crisis hotline featured through great opportunity to practice outside of Dawson McAllister’s live radio show. the classroom.” The program is syndicated on both One of SAGU’s computer labs has Christian and non-Christian stations. been devoted to answering HopeLine This year, TheHopeLine will receive more calls in the Sheaffer Full Life Center. than 75,000 calls and chats from teens The department receives calls from 9 and young adults who desperately seek p.m. Sunday evenings to 3 a.m. Monday SAGU Worship song answers to their problems. Approximately morning. featured on Worship half of calls are on Sunday during the live SAGU senior Amanda Harvey has had radio program. life changing experiences while working Leader Song DISCovery In September 2011, Manager of the with TheHopeLine. Thus far, she has had Dallas HopeLine Greg Wilson asked three conversations with suicidal young SAGU original worship song “Shine” from SAGU’s Psychology Department Head adults. In one conversation, she spoke the “In All The Earth” album was featured on Robert Mapes to consider developing with a young woman for three hours who Worship Leader Media’s Song DISCovery. a national call center on the SAGU had been sexually abused by her father for Every two months, Worship Leader campus. “It’s a ministry opportunity we years. It took the young woman an hour Magazine produces a special publication had been searching for,” says Mapes. “It’s to share why she was suicidal. that includes a CD comprised of a special perfect for our department.” Harvey spoke with another young lady selection of songs chosen from thousands of Participating students are trained who had never heard about Jesus. After submissions. SAGU’s chapel worship director through Professor Jeff Logue’s Crisis being prayed for, she asked Harvey why Meredith Jones submitted the recently Intervention course, as well as through no one had ever told her about Christ released “In All The Earth” album, a live DMLive. Logue believes that the until now. recording of Late Night Worship in March experience will be a key factor in future “Counseling is all about touching lives 2011. All the tracks on the album are original employment for students. and changing people. SAGU students songs written by students. “The training received through have an opportunity to be like Jesus “Shine” was written and performed by DMLive is consistent with some of the through internet chat or a phone call,” SAGU student Binil Chacko. “Shine” will training received to become a licensed says Logue. “I’m so proud of the courage, be included on the compilation album with counselor,” says Logue. “Students are integrity and compassion our students 12-14 other tracks, which will be available taught how to listen and what to listen have shown.” to subscribers of Worship Leader Magazine for. They are also taught how to file For more information on The throughout the nation. The Song DISCovery reports with Child Protective Services.” HopeLine and DMLive radio show, visit album will provide artist information, the original album covers and song chord sheets. SAGU student Robert Cenzano stated, www.thehopeline.com. n “The album is on a new platform,” says Binil Chacko. “It will travel beyond word of mouth and be accessible on a greater level.” The “In All The Earth” CD was the first live recording in ten years. “It is my dream that SAGU would put out a worship recording every year, and I think this is the first step,” says Jones. “It is exciting that our first project is receiving this kind of recognition.” n

Leave Your Mark - 9 Campus Connection

Carrie Abbott addresses students about biblical perspectives of gender Carrie Abbott, a leading communicator and educator on human sexuality and relationships, spoke during chapel on January 25-26, 2012. Twenty-three years ago, Abbott began her ministry as a volunteer in the abstinence program at a crisis pregnancy center. She said, “I love watching people’s lives change because they are learning the truth and able to apply it to their lives.” Her message is about living with sexual integrity. “Sexual integrity is living out your nature in line with God’s design in all five areas of your life: physically, intellectually, emotionally, socially and spiritually,” said Student wins $23,000 Abbott. The Wednesday evening session included a Dr. Pepper scholarship Q&A where students submitted anonymous questions. Abbott addressed topics including On January 6, 2012, SAGU junior pastor Joel Sosa, a SAGU alumnus, who the Five Levels of Intimacy, homosexuality, Glorie Ndongala won the runner-up brought his youth group for a campus sexual abuse, differences between males and $23,000 tuition prize after competing visit. Ndongola said, “I knew I was females and the Stages of Bonding. The chapel for the grand prize of $100,000 at the supposed to be here as soon as I set foot sessions are archived at www.sagu.tv. 2011 Dr. Pepper Million Dollar Tuition on the campus.” With only $3,000 in Abbott is the President of the Legacy Giveaway Promotion and Contest. The his pocket, he asked Sosa for a one-way Institute, an organization that promotes a pass competition aired during the 76th ticket to Texas. message of sexual integrity according to God’s AT&T Cotton Bowl’s half-time show at College has been financially difficult intentional design. Abbott speaks across the Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas. for Ndongala. But he shares how God nation in state legislatures, churches, schools, Dr. Pepper asked college students has miraculously provided for him each medical associations and other venues. She is (ages 18-24) to post college football and year. “Since I arrived at SAGU, I have the author of “The Sexual Integrity Program” Dr. Pepper-themed videos that were experienced one financial blessing after and “The Biblical Blueprint for Sexuality” no more than one minute in length, another,” says Ndongala. “To God be video series as well as an author and developer an original creation, and suitable for the glory. Prayer moves the heart of of “Relationships With Integrity,” a K-12 publication. Videos were judged on the God, and through prayer, God does the curriculum. n impact of tuition prize on contestant’s impossible.” life and overall presentation quality. Ndongala will graduate with a Finalists tossed footballs into a 2-foot bachelor’s degree in Church Ministries hole in an oversized soda can replica and associate degrees in Psychology and from five yards away. The fan who Bible in the fall of 2012. He attends successfully completed the most throws University Church in Waxahachie. He in 30 seconds won the grand prize and his fiancee Katie Winkowitsch will scholarship. marry May 12, 2012. They will move to Originally from Zaire, now the New York to work with street ministries Democratic Republic of the Congo, while preparing a team to return to the Ndongala’s family was forced to Democratic Republic of the Congo, flee when he was still an infant due where they will partner with local to political unrest. Ndongola was churches to build an orphanage. n introduced to SAGU by his youth

10 - Today Magazine Alumnus leaves mark as hospital chaplain Alumnus James Austin serves as a pastors at Raytown First Assembly of God chaplain resident for Barnes-Jewish in Kansas City, Missouri, for nine years. Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri. As In 2004, Austin became senior pastor a hospital chaplain, Austin provides at Bourbon First Assembly of God in spiritual care to patients, family and staff. Bourbon, Missouri. Austin said, "Chaplaincy is a After four years of pastoring, Austin challenging and fulfilling ministry. I try sensed that God wanted him to further to be Jesus in skin to everyone I meet and his education in preparation of a in the process witness spiritual, emotional particular ministry. He enrolled in the and physical healing. I have seen people SAGU graduate program and graduated come to Christ and people who are with a Master of Divinity in 2011. comatose open their eyes and begin Austin deals with the challenges of talking. Every day when I clock out, I feel diversity on a daily basis as he encounters that I have served God well.” a wide variety of cultures and belief. He Austin is enrolled in the Clinical Pastor encounters folk religions, superstitions, Education (CPE) program through animistic influences, Buddhism, the Assemblies of God Chaplaincy Hinduism, Islam, Wicca, atheism SAGU hosts 2011 Department. The CPE program is and various denominations within designed around a learning method of Christianity. Among approximately 20 Credentialing Day action and reflection. Through hands- chaplains, chaplains residents and contract SAGU held its fourth annual on experience, students practice what chaplains at Barnes-Jewish, a variety Credentialing Day on October 27, 2011. they learn and discuss with peers their of these belief systems are represented. Credentialing Day allows students to meet experiences and how to improve. Austin said, “Professor Harden’s teachings with district representatives regarding In 1992, Austin graduated with prepared me to serve in such a diverse ministerial credits with the Assemblies of bachelor’s degrees in Missions and environment. I have learned it helps to God. Bible from Central Bible College. After capitalize on similarities.” There were more than 15 graduation, Austin and his wife Karma Austin relies on the Holy Spirit to give representatives present at the event and served a two-year missionary assignment him wisdom and insight. Austin said, a total of 212 students that participated. in Guam and neighboring Rota Island, "I have no idea of a patient’s spiritual Students who did not have their district where they worked with Yigo Assembly of background when I walk into a room. representative present visited with other God and its accompanying Bible school. In only 30-40 seconds, I must ascertain district personnel. Also, students were able They later served as the children’s the person’s beliefs from their responses. to begin their application process. Often God reveals to me The represented districts included knowledge about a person Arizona, Arkansas, Louisiana, New that I could not know, or Mexico, North Texas, Oklahoma, Rocky He directs me what to say Mountain, South Texas and West Texas. and do or not say and do.” Students who participated in the event With a medical staff of were from the following districts and 1,800 members, Barnes- countries: Alabama, California, Florida, Jewish is the largest hospital Gulf Latin District, Hawaii, Idaho, in Missouri and the largest Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, New private employer in the St. Jersey, North Dakota, Pen-Del, Southern Louis region. Barnes-Jewish Missouri, Tennessee, Texas-Louisiana is an affiliated teaching Latin District, Washington, Wisconsin hospital of the Washington and Argentina. n University School of Medicine. n

Leave Your Mark - 11 Campus Connection

Students receive Making THE Difference Scholarships Nine Southwestern Assemblies of God University (SAGU) students were awarded Making THE Difference (MTD) Scholarships. A total of $120,000 in MTD Scholarships were awarded to 116 students representing the 18 Assemblies of God colleges and universities located across the United States. MTD Scholarships are made available by the Assemblies of God Trust and the AG Alliance for Higher Students witness spiritual Education. Making THE Difference scholarships awakening at “Revival Prayer” are awarded annually to students selected by the 18 individual Assemblies of God SAGU Revival Prayer is a weekly prayer baptized in the Holy Spirit and later began schools as AGTrust funds are available. meeting hosted by Southwestern Missions operating in the gift of healing. He shares, Listed below are the 2011 Making Association (SMA). Students meet in the “That night, I was simply worshipping and THE Difference scholarship recipients Jeter Prayer Room in the Sheaffer Full Life praising God. No one was praying for me from Southwestern Assemblies of God Center (FLC) from 8 - 10 p.m. to pray for or laying hands on me. I began to sense University. n revival in schools, families, churches and God’s presence more strongly than I ever communities throughout the world. had before. I began speaking in a language Kyndra Ables Temple, TX Revival Prayer leader Stacy Jones says, I did not recognize and shaking in the Steffanie Gerbereux Skiatook, OK “We focus on revival here on campus, but presence of God.“ Kathryn Heth Johnston, IA our desire is for revival to spread. We want The use of spiritual gifts is encouraged to witness God moving in our community and is overseen by the leadership team Amanda Reich Fort Worth, TX and all over the world. Prayer is effective during the prayer meetings. Revival Stephen York El Dorado, AR and allows us to change the world around Prayer leader Cade Leuschner says, “We William Carther Waxahachie, TX us.” encourage spiritual gifts for the purpose Valarie Goff Big Spring, TX Healing, deliverance, prophecy of edification. Revival Prayer is an Mason Musick Dallas, TX and baptisms in the Holy Spirit are environment in which people can find out Kenneth Wallace Liberty, MO characteristic of the prayer meetings. their spiritual giftings and learn to operate When freshman Salvador “Chava” in them.” n Avila attended for the first time, he was

SAGU NEWS ONLINE Follow SAGU news weekly on www.sagu.edu/news, SAGU’s Facebook page or Twitter @sagu.

12 - Today Magazine Student produces Remembering worship album Christmas at SAGU Sophomore Joseph Monday, November 28, 2011, SAGU held its third annual Drinkard recorded his “Christmas at SAGU,” presented by Southwestern Women’s first album titled “I Serve Auxiliary, SAGU Alumni Association and Aramark. There were A King” that released Christmas treats, live Christmas music presented by SAGU’s February 7, 2012. Jazz Band, a visit from Santa Claus, and the campus lighting. After a series of personal SAGU’s Career Services offered free ornament decorating for crises, one of Joseph’s the second year in a row. mentors encouraged him 2011 marked the to put what he was going largest lighting of the through into his music. campus including “I can remember walking the Sheaffer Full Life into my church not Center, three campus knowing what to write,” entrances, the Farmer said Drinkard. “I sat down Administration at the keyboard and began to Building, the Nelson worship. I decided that I wanted Lord to continue to write from Library, the Davis to be honest with the Lord his experiences. The album is Building, and more about what I was going through comprised of seven original trees than ever on the and what I was feeling.” tracks. front lawn. Drinkard completed the title “This album was birthed out Make plans to attend track of the album “I Serve of brokenness, but is all about the next “Christmas at A King” soon after. Drinkard hope. It’s a testimony of God’s SAGU” on November says that writing the first song faithfulness in uncertain times,” 26, 2012. n was confirmation from the says Drinkard. n New Program: Management Information Systems SAGU’s Business Department covers basic management now offers a Management systems, theories and practices Information Systems (MIS), and will delve into emerging a specialization intended to technology and IT security teach business students how and privacy issues. SAGU is to manage and use technology providing academic scholarships to position themselves as the for MIS enrollees in Fall 2012. expert in data-driven decision SAGU Program Manager for making. Marketing and Management Careers in Management Information Systems John Information Systems are Jemison explains, “The MIS expected to grow 16% in the Program will provide the next five years. The degree is not business student an awareness, about programming or server understanding, and confidence management, but rather about in information systems as how to use information systems applied in the management of to aid management, or how to businesses.” manage information technology SAGU is accepting departments. The specialization applications for Fall 2012. n

Leave Your Mark - 13 On August 4, 2011, London police threatened violence at the Religion of Peace need in this land,” Meredith Jones says. shot and killed Mark Duggan, a young Demonstration where signs read “Europe, SAGU faculty members Nathan and man suspected of a premeditated revenge you will pay. Your 9/11 is on its way.” Meredith Jones will become the first attack following the fatal stabbing of his “Not only is it the fastest growing Assemblies of God world missionaries to cousin. That evening, riots broke out religion, but they have a strong voice,” London, England, later this year. Nathan across the city as alleged gang members set says SAGU faculty member Nathan Jones. and Meredith met as students at SAGU. cars and buildings afire, beat down public “Radical Islam causes a general sense of fear Meredith had a desire to be involved in commuters and police with batons, and among the people.” The Joneses note that missions from an early age. Nathan had ransacked local businesses. been raised in a missionary Onlookers identified the family and shared a similar criminals as wearing “blues, “Radical Islam causes a general desire to be involved in yellows and reds” – the missions. colors of local gangs. Some sense of fear among the people.” Meredith had an said the riots were motivated The Jones’s note that many of the unexplainable interest in by religious prejudice. London since she was a According to BBC News, empty churches of London are being young girl. “I used to look at least 450 people were through encyclopedias, arrested over four days in sold to Islamic groups for mosques. searching for anything I connection to the riots, and could find on England and more than 6,000 officers the culture,” she says. “God were deployed in London to stop robberies, many of the empty churches of London are put that love in my heart for a reason.” looting and arson. being sold to Islamic groups for mosques. Although they both felt called to In addition to civil unrest, London has The Joneses noticed the spiritual and missions, London was not Nathan’s first one of the highest unemployment rates in moral depravity and the post-Christian choice. “Even though I never had a desire the UK (9.1%) and an increasing trend attitude amongst the people. “Many go to England, God began to grow a toward radical Islam. Recently, Al-Qaeda- consider themselves intellectually above or love for the culture in my heart,” Nathan inspired Muslim terrorists admitted to beyond Christianity,” says Nathan. says. Soon Nathan developed the same plotting to bomb the London Stock “The people have a desperate need for passion for London through dreams and Exchange in 2010. In 2006, Muslims God. It’s hard for Americans to see the constant reminders of London in the

14 - Today Magazine news. Meredith’s fascination with the their Spring 2012 giving project. SMA ministries in an effort to raise money for architecture, music and art of British treasurer Mary Duong surprised the the Jones family. Performances included culture and Nathan’s passion for missions couple during a missions chapel service by musicians Binil Chacko, David Belt and fueled the couple’s decision to move to announcing that they would be financially Nathan and Meredith Jones. London as missionaries. supported by students and faculty of “This project is so personal to SAGU, “A minister currently living in England SAGU. and we are honored to send them off as told us of two things that the people SMA began a Buddy Barrel missionaries,” says Duong. The project respond to – the goal is $15,000, excluding supernatural and any faith promises to music,” says Nathan. support the family The couple plans on month-to-month. being involved with SAGU’s Gold Jackets, church planting and a Student Congress music ministry for service organization the two years they are comprised of female overseas. students, hosted a Finding a way to London-themed England was not an fundraiser on February easy journey. The 11, raising more than Joneses had not $1,300. originally planned Meredith Jones has to go to England as been SAGU’s chapel missionaries because worship director they had always heard since Fall 2008 and a that England was not professor since January open to receiving US 2006. Since 2008, AGWM missionaries. Nathan has been a “So we knocked on competition, which allowed students to guitar instructor in the every door to see which one God would collect loose change in containers and music department. The couple has three open.” The couple looked into getting compete with other dormitories and dorm children. job transfers, pursuing graduate study halls for the most raised funds. Spring Nathan and Meredith are both and personal connections, but every door semester’s winning hall wins tickets to a SAGU graduates. Nathan received his seemed to be closed. Texas Rangers game with President Kermit bachelor’s in Church Ministries with a The Joneses finally connected with the Bridges. focus in music, and Meredith received a AGWM Northern Europe Area Director, During another chapel service, students bachelor’s in Music Performance. Meredith Tim Southerland, who currently lives in and faculty were able to take a music note earned a master’s in Music from Texas Wales. Southerland became the Joneses’ from the chapel walls. Each note cost $25, A&M University at Commerce with a connection to England and told them that totaling to the project goal of $15,000. specialization in Music Education. the British Assemblies of God had just This semester’s giving project encourages The Joneses are documenting their recently opened the door to missionaries monthly faith commitments from students journey on their blog and website. For from the US. The conversation was yet and faculty to support the family during more information on the couple’s ministry another confirmation of their call to their two years in London as missionaries. in London or to support them financially, England, specifically London. A student-led benefit concert titled visit www.nathanmeredithjones.com. n SAGU’s Student Missions Association “Bridging London,” on February 26 (SMA) chose the couple as the focus of involved local churches and other

Leave Your Mark - 15 Online student Vandy Saenz benefits from SAGU’s Missionary Spouse grant to hone skills to reach Buddhists, prostitutes and outcasts in Thailand.

“Having a heart for something and being techniques on a daily basis. becomes your ‘sugar daddy’ and gives you called to do it is one thing. But, no matter “Because my classes address multi-cultural things that you want,” Vandy said. your calling, you have to continue to refine counseling, I am learning how to be more Many people believe that mistakes of their your skills,” said SAGU student Vandy Saenz. effective in the culture that I am living.” past result in their present life circumstances. Four years into her missionary tenure, She continued, “Not only am I learning Thai Buddhism focuses more on choices Vandy decided that she needed to pursue a more techniques to minister to people in and outcomes than moral standards. People higher education. She knew that she couldn’t a more holistic, therapeutic way, but I am cannot easily comprehend that man is have the traditional college experience as a learning how to better understand the people’s innately sinful. full-time missionary in Thailand Vandy shared, “They also strongly with a family to take care of. believe that choice is the determining “At first, I made all types of factor for a person’s current condition excuses. I thought it was too without taking into account a person’s late for me to go back to school. background, socio-economic factors, Then, I was embarrassed because I their mental health or if they have a thought that I would be older than history of being abused. my classmates.” Recently, Vandy began helping The only way that Vandy would another missionary build a school in be able to pursue her education Northern Thailand for a small village while working on the mission field of Burmese refugees. In Burma, just was to find a degree that worked north of Thailand, the government around her demanding schedule. has oppressed ethnic national tribes She began to research and for years, forcing the tribes to flee for discovered that the average SAGU safety. The refugee children are not undergraduate SDE student is a allowed to attend Thai schools because 31-year-old working professional. real need, instead of responding to what I they are stateless. Although there is a long “My family and I lived in Waxahachie perceive the need to be.” history of prejudice between the Thai and for a few years, so I was already familiar “Ministering to these women and children Burmese, the Thai government has agreed to with SAGU,” Vandy said. “I was interested is about more than just saying they are living install electricity and a water system in the in counseling, and I knew that SAGU’s a sinful life or teaching them a trade for stable village once the school is built. Psychology department was reputable.” income. They need a strong support network The Thai government does not allow open She continued, “After researching several for them to successfully leave prostitution.” evangelism but does allow people to share AG schools, SAGU was the most robust According to Vandy, Buddhism is the their faith when asked. Saenz plans to start online program that I found. Plus, it is one prevailing religion of the country, but it is a a coffee house ministry with conversational of the only AG universities that offers tuition different Buddhist faith than what is found English rooms that allow the opportunity to discounts to spouses of missionaries. It was in other eastern countries. Many Thai are share the Gospel. exactly what I was looking for.” pluralistic to ensure they are eternally secure. Saenz served four years of active duty and Two years into her program, Vandy sees Many say they believe in Jesus Christ, but four years in the Navy Reserves. n how much her education helps her ministry. they only believe that he existed. “Because Between working with Burmese ethnic tribes of the prevalence of prostitution, their in refugee villages to Thai prostitutes in red understanding of Jesus is skewed. They believe light districts, she incorporates counseling that because He is good and loves you, he

16 - Today Magazine Athletic Athletic News Awards Football SAGU receives Champions of NAIA Academic All-Star n Nate Kallala (1) Character Five Star Award CSFL All-Academic Team n SAGU is a recipient of Joshua Aldrich (2) n Kendal Evers (3) The National Association of n Reid Golson (4) Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) n Joshua Harris (5) Champions of Character Five Star n Brad Heathcock (6) Award for the 2010-11 school year. n Michael Hendon (7) SAGU received the award based n Nate Kallal (1) on a demonstrated commitment n Cade Leuschner (8) to character and earned points in n Jason Rice (9) each of the following categories: n Ramsey Sanchez (10) character training, conduct in All-CSFL 1st Team competition, academic focus, n Richard Donte Embry (11) character recognition and character n David Howard (12) promotion. The Lions also earned All-CSFL 2nd Team points based on exceptional student- Director. “This award means that our n James Gish (13) athlete grade point averages. athletes and coaches are carrying out the n Brad Heathcock (6) “We are pleased to be recognized as a mission of not only the institution but n Jonathan Hulett (14) Champions of Character Institution,” the athletic governing body it associates n Jason Rice (9) said Jesse Godding, SAGU’s Athletic with in the NAIA.” n n Paul Sielski (15) n Stephen Stewart (16) Men’s Soccer Danny Martinez (17) n NCCAA 2nd Team All-American n 2nd Team All-Conference

1 2 3 4 5 6 Volleyball Tina Brown (18) n NCCAA Academic All-American n NAIA Champion of Character Taylor Calverley (19) n RRAC All-Conference 2nd Team 7 8 9 10 11 12 n NCCAA All-Central Region 1st Team Krystal Cisneros (20) n NCCAA 2nd Team All-American n #7 in the Red River Athletic Conference n RRAC All-Conference 1st Team for the 13 14 15 16 17 18 second year in a row n NCCAA’s All-Central Region 1st Team Kassy Cox (21) n RRAC All-Conference 2nd Team Laura Espinoza (22) 19 20 21 22 23 24 n #23 in the NAIA, RRAC record of 687 digs Alissa Kirk (23) n NAIA Champion of Character Get other athletic feature content at sagu.edu/athletics Jessica Sodich (24) n RRAC All-Conference 2nd Team Weekly scores Streaming and n and statistics video on demand Photos NCCAA All-Central Region 2nd Team Leave Your Mark - 17 Athletic News

Men’s Basketball finishes 3rd in NCCAA SAGU (25-9) and Dallas Baptist University (17-13), schools separated by a 30-minute drive, met nearly 700 miles Fans witness the birth of a away in Lakewood, CO, for the NCCAA regional championship. SAGU was the #2 tradition, SAGU Snowstorm seed taking on the defending champions and #1 seed. During a SAGU Men’s Basketball Lions. “We believed the risk of suffering With a couple of minutes remaining game Saturday, November 12, 2012, fans a technical foul was worth the reward in the game, the Lions pulled within two launched more than 2,000 pingpong balls of pulling more fans to the game,” says points, only to see their efforts fall short onto the court to celebrate after senior Bostwick. in a narrow 87-80 loss. However, the Ronald Horne converted a shot inside the When asked about the timing of SAGU’s Lions’ season record earned an at-large lane. Horne’s shot marked the first home newly forged tradition, Bostwick explains, nomination to the NCCAA National basket in the first home game of the season “It needed to happen after the first point tournament at Grace College in Winona and began a new SAGU tradition – the or at the final buzzer if we won. But, Lake, Indiana. Six days and 1,120 miles SAGU Snowstorm. holding on to that many pingpong balls later, the #4 seed Lions defeated #5 Head Men’s Basketball Coach Donnie until the end of the game did not seem seed The Master’s College (CA) in the Bostwick organized the event and wise, and throwing them at the end did not quarterfinals in a 80-73 overtime victory. explained his view that traditions are some seem sportsmanlike.” He continued, “The In the semi-finals, the Lions faced #1 seed of the most enjoyable moments of college opposing coach thought it was a great idea Cedarville University. Trailing by two at athletics. Regarding the origination of the and, of course, welcomed the points from the half, the Lions hit the wall, falling to SAGU Snowstorm, he shares, “My wife the technical.” the eventual National Champions. had mentioned to my kids that it rarely Players and fans had a positive reaction In the third-place game, SAGU battled snows in Texas. That triggered the idea of to the event. SAGU Vice President of back from a double digit deficit with throwing pingpong balls. It is harmless, but Business and Finance Jay Trewern said, five minutes to play to defeat Hope still has a pretty cool effect. Plus, it’s a great “The anticipation in the stands was a lot International University 84-81. The third- marketing tool to get fans out to see our of fun. People were laughing and looking place finish completed a record setting first game.” forward to that first basket. It also put season for SAGU. The 27 wins marked the Cheerleaders, players and other extra pressure on the team to score at the most in SAGU history since joining the volunteers successfully cleared the start of the game.” Trewern’s sentiment was NAIA and the NCCAA and tied the most pingpong balls from the court in less than illustrated by the crowd’s audible sighs after wins in SAGU history matching Terry five minutes. The referees enforced an each of the first three SAGU shots missed. Bryan’s 1989-90 team. n administrative technical foul against the SAGU won the game 76-72. n

18 - Today Magazine FCA awards athletic trainer 2011 SAGU hosts Male Huddle Coach of the Year Coaches versus The Greater Dallas Fellowship of of Sports Medicine and continues to Cancer Christian Athletes awarded SAGU Athletic maintain his own ministry, Solid Rock Trainer Jaroy Carpenter the 2011 Male Resources. He is also the campus FCA SAGU hosted Coaches versus Cancer, Huddle Coach of the Year. Huddle Leader and coordinates SAGU’s Saturday, February 18, 2012, on SAGU’s The award was presented during the athlete outreach ministry. Carpenter lives campus in the Sheaffer Full Life Center annual FCA Coaches Appreciation and in Midlothian with his wife Kim and their gymnasium. SAGU women’s and men’s Leadership Dinner held at Prestonwood children Carli (15), Cade (12) and Corbin basketball teams played against LSU – Baptist Church in Plano, featuring special (10). n Shreveport. guest Jon Kitna, a former quarterback “Cancer is a terrible disease that effects for the Dallas Cowboys. all of us,” says SAGU Women’s Basketball “We have a dedicated group of Coach Arlon Beadles. “We want to do our student-athletes at SAGU who see the part as coaches and players to fight this value of how FCA can benefit schools, disease.” the community and the greater Dallas SAGU donated all proceeds made at area,” Carpenter added. the gate to the American Cancer Society He joined the FCA as a Huddle (ACS). Additionally, attendees donated Leader from 1983-1987 while at during the game as SAGU coaches shared Greenville High School before doing their personal battles with cancer. SAGU the same at J.J. Pierce High School from raised more than $1,000. 1987-1991. The National Athletic Intercollegiate While serving as a youth pastor at Association (NAIA) national office will Calvary Temple for more than ten years, present a check to the ACS at halftime he continued to be involved on the during the NAIA Men’s Division I campuses of the Irving Independent National Championship. All donations School District as well as encouraging will be dispersed to local ACS chapters his students to be involved with FCA. according to where the donations were He also served on the Irving FCA Adult collected. n Chapter. FCA staff member Danny Noah Carpenter serves as SAGU’s Director with Jaroy Carpenter.

SAGU debuts women’s fast-pitch softball SAGU began the first season of its newly created women’s fast-pitch softball against Hillsdale Baptist College on Saturday, February 4, 2012, in Moore, Oklahoma. After 17 games on the road, the Lady Lions finally returned March 29, 2012, to play their first home against Langston University. They will soon play at their new campus park. The new facility includes an expanded dugout for SAGU, a clay infield and a regulation outfield with 6-foot fences. The team had their first fall training camp in October. They worked on fundamentals, live batting, game situations and base-running. Additionally, SAGU Professor Sally Ford has been developing player quickness and agility as the team’s speed coach. n

Leave Your Mark - 19 20 - Today Magazine AMENITIES n Performance Arts Auditorium – seating capacity of 637; supporting areas: main stage, back stage, light and audio control room n Classrooms n Rehearsal Halls – instrumental, choir and drama n Film Screening/Preaching and Speech Lab n Black-Box Theater n TV and Film Studio n Audio Recording Studio n Digital Video Editing Lab n Digital Video Editing Suites n Music Theory Room n Piano Lab – equipped with music notation software, digital pianos and computers for the use of teaching and arranging choral and instrumental pieces n Music Library and Listening Lab n Music Practice Rooms n Departmental Office Complex n Concession booth – refreshments during events n Café – provides daily refreshments for purchase n Receiving and Loading Dock n Green Room n Storage Rooms n Workshops – Scene Shop, Paint, Electrical, Woodworking. Room located behind the main stage for building of props, storage and housing of technical equipment. n Wardrobe Storage n Dressing Rooms Leave Your Mark - 21 22 - Today Magazine SAGU receives $9 million in gifts, $1 million Mabee Challenge Grant In the last ten years SAGU administrative team knew the the $5 million, as well as a $2.5 enrollment has increased 16 project would be a challenge, million gift from Dr. John and percent. Meanwhile, the combined totaling an estimated $21 million. Diana Hagee. The gift was timely enrollment of Communication The initial plan was to build the in view of SAGU’s most recent Arts, Language Arts and Music WCC in two phases. Segmenting news concerning a challenge grant has doubled. The growth of these the project would allow SAGU to from the Mabee Foundation. programs created a need for construct the facility as resources The Mabee Foundation was additional space and learning tools. became available. An unexpected instrumental in the construction In 2009, representatives $5 million gift to the WCC of Sheaffer Full Life Center and from the administration and last September from a generous Teeter Hall. This March, the Communication Arts faculty family, combined with $8 million university submitted a grant traveled to another university to authorized by the Board of proposal for the WCC. On April tour that institution’s state-of-the- Regents for financing, compelled 10, their Board convened and art Communication Center. The the administration to consider authorized a $1 million challenge administration appointed faculty the feasibility of constructing the grant on the condition that member Rob Price to assimilate entire facility at once. SAGU raise the balance toward concepts and identify desired God has miraculously provided the project by April 2013. The components for a new facility on for SAGU throughout its 85-year aforementioned gifts have placed the SAGU campus. Thus began history and the last six months SAGU within striking distance of the process that would result in the is evidence of His continued funding this 79,000-square-foot university’s plan for its own World provision. Since September, facility, which will be the second Communication Center. the university has received an largest building on campus. n A monumental endeavor, additional $1.8 million from the President Bridges and his same generous family who gave

Dr. John and Diana Hagee commit $2.5 million

This year Dr. John and Diana Hagee committed $2.5 million toward the construction of the World Communication Center. Dr. John Hagee is the founder and Senior Pastor of Cornerstone Church in San Antonio, Texas, a non-denominational evangelical church with more than 20,000 active members. Pastor Hagee is President of John Hagee Ministries, which telecasts his national radio and television teachings throughout America and in 245 nations worldwide. numerous devotionals. In 2006, Hagee received a Bachelor of Science Dr. Hagee founded, and is the National from SAGU, Bachelor of Arts from Trinity Chairman of Christians United For Israel, a University in San Antonio, Texas, and master’s grass roots national association through which degree from the University of North Texas. every pro-Israel Christian ministry, para- He is the author of 32 major books, church organization, or individual in America including four on the New York Times can speak and act with one voice in support of Best Seller’s List. Among his works are Israel in matters related to biblical issues. n commentary study Bibles, novels and

Leave Your Mark - 23 the making of TO EVERY NATION THE MISSION TEN DOCUMENTARY

“I remember getting out of our van in India in the middle of Team 1: Landon Perry & Brianna Woodson the night and seeing hundreds of people sleeping on the street,” said student Josh Freethy. “That image is something that I will Team 2: Jason Rutel & Richie Kotwica never forget.” In the Bahamas, SAGU students helped a local church and ministered to the elderly on the island of Xuma. “I could say Team 3: Krystle Sonmore & Richie Kotwica that it was the worst living conditions that I had ever seen, but that wouldn’t even prepare you for what we experienced – what Team 4: Shelby Valdez & Matt Deras we saw and smelled,” shared student missionary Christine Mercer. Team 5: Josh Freethy, Josiah Hartmann & Jason Rutel “In El Salvador, gang leaders say that if they can get a child by the age of nine to commit their first crime, which is usually

24 - Today Magazine 0 pt

armed robbery or murder, the child will introduced Mission TEN (To Every Nation), planted this vision on my heart,” Price said. never leave the gang lifestyle,” missionary a vision to send students to serve in 192 “I had to find a way to make this happen.” assistant Josh Sears shared. nations, 34 Chinese provinces and 35 Indian The documentary would be a powerful way For the first time in its history, SAGU’s states by the year 2020. Mission TEN is an to integrate SAGU’s core value of mission- Digital Media Arts program released opportunity for SAGU to actively express mindedness into one of SAGU’s liberal arts a groundbreaking, full-length feature its core value of mission-mindedness and programs. A veteran of more than a dozen documentary, “To Every Nation.” SAGU participate in evangelism throughout the mission trips over 20 years, Price sensed a embedded journalists (EJs) joined world. deeper and more personal implication. “I Southwestern Missions Association’s (SMA) SAGU Digital Media Arts faculty member prayed that God would use this project to 2011 missionary teams to record the stories Rob Price proposed the documentary idea wreck my students – to give them a heart for of missionaries worldwide. to SAGU Director of World Missions Chad missions service that would motivate them for In 2010, the SAGU Missions department Germany in August 2010. “The Holy Spirit the rest of their lives,” he shared.

Leave Your Mark - 25 SAGU’s Mission TEN has ministered to Embedded Journalist Krystle Sonmore out which countries were closest together 35 of the 261 locations it plans to reach. shared, “I didn’t realize how much traveling and would be the easiest to travel between In 2009-2010, 103 students engaged in there would be. We went from one flight to took hours.“ a total of 15 trips. In 2011, 114 students another to another, some of us having 18- “During their travels, the EJs were traveled to 20 countries. Nine Digital Media hour layovers. Plus, we had to be cautious struggling to figure out where they were Arts students divided into 2-person teams because we were carrying around a canvas supposed to be because of the language traveling to a different country every three to barriers,” Price said. “But, they had to make four days over a two-month period. decisions quickly because so many of them Before the EJs began their journey, they had little time between their connecting accompanied the Mission TEN teams flights.” for a week of leadership training The journalism teams filmed and in Arizona. While student reported 2-3 personal interviews missionaries trained or ministries while in each for their ministries, the country. Students filmed a total EJs filmed the camp as of 119 hours overseas. But, the preparation for the mission embedded journalists were not field. The EJs studied alone in the creation of “To other documentaries, Every Nation.” Four thousand brainstormed framework, hours of work from 44 people in talked through story three classes went into creating mapping, and practiced the 90-minute documentary. interviewing. For every hour of raw footage, Like other student only one minute was used in the missionaries, each final documentary. embedded journalist The EJs begin the raised between $1,200 documentary with an exposition and $2,200 for their trips. of the countries they visited and the SAGU alumni gave more people they encountered. The interviews than $50,000 during Homecoming in 2010 are of students, missionaries or locals in to cover the cost of the recording equipment each country. The EJs took particular care needed. Each team carried a backpack backpack to protect missionaries’ identities. containing a laptop, a high definition camera with $7,000 worth of new equipment.” Embedded Journalist Landon Perry that shoots video and still photos, a tripod, Price explained, “One of the most difficult shared, “In some countries it was difficult two external hard drives, a wireless audio kit, parts of our journey was scheduling when because we had to be incredibly mindful of and a light and reflector kit. and where our EJs would go. Trying to figure who we interviewed and what we asked. We

26 - Today Magazine didn’t want to put the missionary, our teams approval. received numerous awards. The team for or ourselves in danger.” Sonmore shares, “Being a part of ‘To “Murdoch” received three awards at the He continues, “But we still had Every Nation’ made me realize that we may WorldFest Film Festival in Houston, Texas. opportunities to capture some powerful be the only Christians that they interact The film won a Gold Award (2nd place) moments. One of the interviews that I with in their lifetime. We have to make a for all Short Film Cinematography and conducted was with a Muslim headmaster lasting impression, and we have to share their two Platinum Awards (1st place) for Short who expressed his appreciation to the team stories.” Film Editing and Short Film Screenwriting. and their Christian ministry. Earlier this year “Murdoch” This experience taught me For the first time in its history, SAGU’s Digital won 3rd place for Student how to interact with people Productions at the National from different cultures, Media Arts program released a groundbreaking, Religious Broadcasters backgrounds, and belief Convention in Nashville, systems.” full-length feature documentary “To Every Tennessee. It recently won After returning to the “Best Short Feature” at states, each Scriptwriting Nation.” SAGU embedded journalists (EJs) Minnesota’s On the Edge student was assigned one of Family Film Festival. the EJs’ stories to script. The joined SMA’s 2011 missionary teams to record SAGU Cinema’s first film Electronic Field Production the stories of missionaries worldwide. “Breaking News” received (EFP) class edited the raw Best Cinematography for footage according to the Short Film at the World script. The Studio Production class filmed the “This project taught me how to deal with Fest Film Festival in 2009. “Breaking News” EJs’ introduction of the countries, and then talent professionally and how to capture their broadcast nationally on NRB network, TCT recorded their scripted voice-overs. After the story,” Perry said. “The documentary style network, TBN network and the Australian project was completed, SAGU presented the filming taught me how to frame shots on the Christian Channel. n documentary to the missionaries and the go to get the best shot possible.” Assemblies of God World Missions for final Previous SAGU student films have

Leave Your Mark - 27 Class Notes

Jeretta (Clark) (1956), live in Bentonville, serves as the youth pastor at First Assembly 1940s Arkansas. They have three children and of God, and Jennifer is a director of an eight grandchildren. education-based afterschool program Paul Spinden (1946) has two sons: Paul Sherry (Briot) Williams (1959) lived and through the Boys and Girls Club. M. and Frank. Paul M. is a retired Judge worked in Israel from 1980 to 1982. She and is currently a professor at Liberty also worked for 10 years at a large health University. Frank is an ordained minister. maintenance organization. Her son Greg In Memoriam Williams also attended SAGU and earned his master’s degree in Human Services Eulma Lee (Cunningham) Montgomery 1950s Counseling in 2009. (1946) at age 87 went to be with the Lord Margaret (Margo) (Elliott) Cook (1959) on September 20, 2011, at Rockport, Betty Latham Grant (1954) was named had two years at SAGU that were life Texas. She was born October 3, 1923, “Who’s Who Among American Teachers.” changing for her as she came straight from at Crush, Texas, to Reverend Will and The “Who’s Who” award honors America’s India. Margo graduated from high school Lula Mae (Moseley) Cunningham, Sr. most respected teachers and acknowledges her first semester and went on to complete In 1941, she enrolled at Southwestern in their excellence as distinguished educators. one and a half years of Junior College. Waxahachie, Texas, graduating in the spring Betty played violin and traveled with the The chapel services, revivals and driving to of 1946. She later became the Dean of orchestra during her first year at SAGU. attend Harvester Choir tours are favorite Women at Southwestern. For several years During her second year she sang with the memories. during the mid-40s, Eulma Lee and her Harvester Choir. Following a morning younger sister and brother, Melbajo and chapel featuring the Missionaries Quartet Billy, traveled in ministry as a trio, holding for Speed the Light, she met one of its revivals and vacation Bible schools. She was members and later married Warren Grant 2000s an ordained Assembly of God minister for in Memphis, Tennessee. Betty moved to many years, pastoring churches throughout California and received her bachelor’s Bethany (Ball) Arie (2002) was appointed Texas. Eulma married Merlon Montgomery degree in Education with honors from Fannin County Extension Agent of Family on February 6, 1960. Sacramento State University. For 40 years and Consumer Sciences. It was announced Reverend William Carl Smith (1950) Betty taught elementary students in Idaho, jointly by County Judge Creta Carter was born on February 14, 1924 and passed Tennessee, Missouri and California as a and Hurley Miller, the District Extension away on Saturday, October 15, 2011. Rev. reading specialist. She later graduated (with Administrator. Bethany will be in charge Smith was a resident of Athens, Texas. honors) with a master’s degree from Drury of planning, implementing, evaluating University. and interpreting extension education Reverend Alva Ralph Sill (1950) passed programs in 4-H and Youth Development, away on October 5, 2011 at age 85 in Horace Hardwick (1957) was recently and in Family and Consumer Science Springfield, Missouri. He was born October appointed to the Arkansas Higher departments. 20, 1925 in Purdin, Missouri, the son of Education Board by the governor after Thomas and Bertha (Black) Sill. On March Celia (Crane) Ersch (2011) serving six years in the Arkansas State graduated 25, 1948, Sill married Mary Lois carter in Legislature. He and his wife of 55 years, from SAGU and one month later married Ovilla, Texas. In 1953, he was ordained the love of her life, Camerand Ersch. He as an Assemblies of God Minister. He was graduated from University of Texas at preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Arlington and was commissioned into the Ruth Miller; four brothers; three sisters; Air Force in May 2011. The couple is now two nephews; and one niece. stationed in Great Falls, Montana. SUBMIT YOUR Reverend Russell Reed Gipson Jr. (1951) passed away Monday, September 26, 2011, CLASS NOTE in Odessa, Texas. He was born June 30, Celebrations 1928 in Osage County, Oklahoma, the Help keep friends and classmates 5th of 6 children. In 1950 he married updated with your recent news. Bearett Wolverton (December 2009) Wilma Jean Bascom. Wilma went to be Submit your class note, celebration or and Jennifer Webb (December 2008) with the Lord in 1976. In October 1978 memoriam year-round online at were engaged October 2010 at Niagara Reed married Gwendolyn Davis. Reed is www.sagu.edu/alumni. Falls while she was working on her master’s survived by his wife, 6 children, and 13 degree in upstate New York. The couple grandchildren. married June 4, 2011, at First Assembly of God in Waxahachie, TX. They currently Dr. William (Bill) Lauren Shell (1953) reside in Brazoria, TX, where Bearett went to be with the Lord on Saturday,

28 - Today Magazine November 19, 2011. He was born April 22, Reverend L.V. Price (1962), a minister of Advanced School of Theology as well as 1930 in Excel, Alabama where he grew up. Jesus since age 17, went to be with the Lord a church planter in the Ivory Coast. He Shell earned a Bachelor’s of Theology from on September 14, 2011. Rev. Price was married Gayle Elaine Brooks (1963) on Southwestern, a Bachelor’s of Education born January 16, 1943 in Wichita, Kansas. June 8, 1963. Derrell is survived by his from Florida Southern University and a He met his wife Linda at Southwestern wife, son, brother and two sisters. Masters and DED in Education from the and they were married in 1962 and began James Rose University of Oklahoma. He was ordained to pastor in 1965. Rev. Price was ordained was born on August 1, 1934 as a minister in the Assemblies of God in in 1968. He pastored churches in Texas, and passed away on Thursday, June 16, 1951. Bill was preceded in death by his Oklahoma, and Louisiana. 2011. James was a resident of North Little parents; wife of 56 years, Retha (Stratton) Rock, Arkansas at the time of his passing. Judith Mattes (1999) who attended Southwestern from 1949- of Yuma, Arizona, He is survived by his wife Doris. passed away on December 15, 2011 at 52; great-granddaughter, brother, and J.O. Belin age 63. She was born April 22, 1948 in was born on May 11, 1931 and sister. He is survived by his two sons, five passed away on Friday, August 12, 2011. grandchildren, and 5 great-grandchildren. Indianapolis, Indiana to Slavko and Arline Mattes. Judith obtained her Doctorate Belin was a resident of Camden, Arkansas. Travis Wallace (1953) went to be with the in Education in 1982 and later became Reverend Arthur Curtis Parker Sr. of Lord on August 22, 2011. an ordained minister. She served as a Story, Arkansas, passed away July 20, 2011. missionary at the American Indian College. Reverend Wayne R. Smith (1958) age 79 He was born on January 3, 1944, in Hot of Rowlett, Texas, passed away December Reverend Derrell Lewis Miles, resident Springs, Arkansas. He was an ordained 14, 2011. He was born June 13, 1932 of Grove, Oklahoma, passed away Sept. minister of the Assemblies of God. Rev. in Sullivan, Indiana, to William & Ethel 30, 2011 at age 69. Rev. Miles had been a Blevins pastored churches in Arizona, (Johnson) Smith. Rev. Smith served in the minister for 48 years, serving in the General New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas before United States Air Force for eight years. He Council of the Assemblies of God as well retiring after 55 years. was an ordained minister in the Assemblies as pastoring in Georgia, Missouri, Kansas, Reverend Robert F. Pruett was born on of God for 50 years and pastored churches Indiana, Arkansas, Florida, and Oklahoma. July 18, 1927 and passed away on Monday, in Indiana, Oklahoma and Arizona, as well He had also served as a missionary in the August 22, 2011. He was a resident of as several in the Dallas area since 1965. Ivory Coast, and West Africa. He had Temecula, California. served as a professor at the West African

Leave Your Mark - 29 Quick Facts

Enrollment...... 2,023 Student/Teacher Ratio...... 19:1 Academic Programs Master’s Middle & Secondary 1 Cost Per Year...... $19,320 Counseling Psychology english Language Arts/Reading 1 Based on full-time tuition with room and Counseling Psychology (Clinical) 2 social Studies/History 1 2 2 board for 2012-2013. Human Services Counseling (Non-Clinical) Music Education (Instrumental, Piano, Vocal) Education 1 physical Education 2 Curriculum Development English 1 Cost Per Hour (SDE, HSGS) 1 Undergraduate...... $525 Christian School Administration History Early Childhood/Elementary Education Human Services 1 Graduate...... $540 Early Education Administration Management 1 Middle & Secondary Education Management Information Systems Principalship Marketing 1 Financial Aid...... 92% receive financial aid. School Counseling Media Ministries 2 History 3 Music Ministries 2 Phone...... 1-888-YES-SAGU education Track Music Performance (Instrumental, Piano, Vocal) 2 Thesis Track Occupational Leadership 1 Web Page...... www.sagu.edu non-thesis Track Pastoral Ministries 1 Master of Divinity 1 Professional Development 1 E-Mail...... [email protected] Organizational Leadership 2 Psychology 1 Theological Studies 1 Social Work 2 Facebook...... www.facebook.com/sagufans Bible & Theology Sports Management 2 Children & Family Ministries 3 Theological Studies 1 Twitter...... @sagu Missions World Ministries 1 practical Theology Youth & Student Ministries 1 YouTube...... www.youtube.com/sagu Bachelor’s Associates 1 1 SAGUtv...... www.sagu.tv Accounting Bible Ancient Studies 1 Business Administration 1 Biblical Studies 1 early Childhood Education 1 Business Administration 1 education 1 About the School of Children & Family Ministries 1 english 1 Church Ministries 1 Foreign Language 2 Distance Education Church Planting & Revitalization 1 general Business 1 Most SAGU programs are also available completely online. Communication 2 general Studies 1 1 2 Graduate students have the additional option to attend Counseling Media Counseling Ministries 1 Music 2 night or weekend classes. Criminal Justice 1 psychology 1 Digital Media Arts 2 social Studies 1 Drama 2 Accreditation Education 1 1 Fully offered online. 2 Southwestern Assemblies of God University is accred- Bilingual Education 2 Partially offered online. Some on-campus 1 ited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern elementary Education coursework required. Association of Colleges and Schools to award the Master, 3 Exclusively offered online. Bachelor and Associate degrees. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of Southwestern Assemblies of God University. Athletics Men’s Women’s Baseball Basketball Basketball Cheerleading Football Soccer Soccer Softball Volleyball

3030 - Today - Today Magazine Magazine Leave Your Mark - 31 sagu 1200 Sycamore Waxahachie, TX 75165