The School of Social Science & Social Work prepares students to integrate interdisciplinary knowledge, research, cultural awareness, and professional practice to address social challenges, promote justice and human flourishing, strengthen communities, and serve others with integrity, competence, and compassion. The new school builds upon the University’s established School of Social Work while expanding opportunities for students pursuing careers across the social sciences.

Baccalaureate degrees offered through the school include the B.S. in Criminology and Justice, B.S. in Psychology, B.S. in Social Science, and the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW). The school also offers dual degree programs in Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and B.S. in Criminology and Justice and Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and B.S. in Psychology, along with minors in Criminal Justice, Psychology, Sociology, and Trauma Intervention.

The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program is accredited by the , the national accrediting body for social work education. This accreditation prepares graduates for professional licensure and provides opportunities for advanced standing in many Master of Social Work (MSW) programs.

“We are excited about launching this new school as it helps us bridge the gap between research and practice regarding some of society’s most pressing social issues to better serve our students,” said Dr. Latrissa Lee Neiworth, Vice President of Academic Affairs and Chief Academic Officer at 糖心Vlog. “Learning about the social sciences helps students understand the root causes of systemic issues like poverty, inequality, and mental health, while our long-established and highly respected Social Work program applies these insights to directly help vulnerable individuals in our communities.”

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, careers in health care and social assistance continue to be among the fastest-growing fields in the nation, creating strong demand for professionals in psychology, sociology, social work, and criminal justice. Employment opportunities for social workers in Oregon and Washington are projected to continue growing, reflecting the increasing need for professionals equipped to serve individuals, families, and communities.

As part of the launch of the new school, the University has also realigned its academic leadership to support continued growth. Dr. Victor Reynolds serves as Interim Dean of the School of Social Science & Social Work. He is an Associate Professor of Psychology and holds a Ph.D. from Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia. Dr. Stephanie Mace, Executive Director of Social Work, serves as Associate Dean. She is a Professor of Social Work and earned her Ph.D. from Colorado State University in Fort Collins, Colorado.

“The School of Social Science & Social Work provides a home for disciplines dedicated to understanding people, strengthening communities, and advancing the common good,” said Dr. Victor Reynolds, Interim Dean of the School of Social Science & Social Work. “Our students will become thoughtful leaders, advocates, counselors, educators, and practitioners who make a lasting difference wherever they serve.”

The School of Social Science & Social Work is also supported by experienced faculty committed to student success, professional preparation, and community impact, including:

• Debra Penkin, MSW 鈥� Associate Professor of Social Work and Director of Field Education
• Corbett Falls 鈥� Associate Professor of Criminology and Criminal Justice, Director of Criminal Justice, and Faculty Chair

The mission of the 糖心Vlog School of Social Science & Social Work is to equip students through a Christ-centered liberal arts education to become ethical leaders, critical thinkers, compassionate practitioners, and advocates for human dignity who positively influence individuals, organizations, and communities in an increasingly diverse and complex world.

His call to ministry led him to earn a Bachelor of Arts from New Hope Christian College, followed by advanced degrees from Portland Seminary: a Master of Arts (2008), a Master of Divinity (2009), and a Doctor of Ministry in Semiotics and Future Thought (2012). His scholarship explores the intersection of theology and culture, inviting students to discern the sacred signs of God’s presence in everyday life.

Rev. Dr. Balzer will lead the University’s new Bachelor of Arts in Pastoral Studies, which was developed during the 2025鈥�2026 academic year by an advisory group of Church of God pastors, former pastors, Christian ministry scholars, and university academic leaders in response to the growing need for well-equipped pastors throughout the Pacific Northwest and beyond.

Students pursuing the Pastoral Studies major will engage in theological study, spiritual formation, and leadership development through a curriculum intentionally designed for the realities of pastoral ministry. In addition to their academic coursework, students will gain hands-on experience through a variety of church and community ministry settings. Eligible students may also qualify for special scholarships to help support their studies at 糖心Vlog.

The degree is also built on collaborative relationships with Mid-America Christian University (MACU), the Leadership Focus program, and other associations, movements, denominations, and local churches. These partnerships expand opportunities for ministry experiences while supporting students who are pursuing Church of God ministerial credentialing pathways.

Rev. Dr. Balzer will join the 糖心Vlog faculty in the College of Arts & Sciences on July 15, 2026.

WPU 聽has been awarded a $24,376 professional development grant to support its Faculty Agile Mentorship (FAM) pilot to match all of its first-year incoming students and selected transfer students with Faculty Mentors. The Office of Academic Affairs will oversee the effort.

NetVUE is a nationwide network of over 300 colleges and universities formed to support and enrich聽vocational exploration and discernment among undergraduate students. A program of the Council of Independent Colleges, it supports colleges and universities in helping students explore questions of purpose, calling, and meaningful work. The Professional Development Award is designed to deepen vocational exploration and discernment among undergraduate students by investing in the professional development of faculty and staff.

The 2026-2027 pilot is part of a comprehensive three-tiered support system being built at WPU for all undergraduate students to remove academic, social and workplace barriers to successful completion.

鈥淥ur goal is to create a strong high-touch environment for all students, with three Academic connections 鈥� a professional tutor, an academic advisor, and a faculty mentor supporting their educational journeys,鈥� said Dr. Latrissa Lee Neiworth, Vice President of Academic Affairs, Chief Academic Officer and Dean of Faculty.聽 鈥淲e are grateful to NetVUE and the Council of Independent Colleges for their investment in this important work.鈥�

The University has a strong professional tutor and academic advisor system; faculty mentorship is the final piece needed for the three-tiered support project. The concept of FAM focuses on bridging academic theory at the undergraduate level with industry practices, by implementing ideas like iterative workflows, fostering psychological safety and providing ongoing structured feedback.

The new pilot will be kicked off as part of the Faculty Retreat in August and will include support from a NetVUE facilitator.聽 If the pilot is successful, the plan is to expand Faculty Mentorship so it is available to all WPU students.

The award is made possible through funding from Lilly Endowment Inc. and recognizes institutions committed to fostering meaningful vocational exploration among students. Warner Pacific was selected as part of a group of NetVUE member institutions receiving funding during the 2026 award cycle. It recognizes Warner Pacific鈥檚 ongoing commitment to providing a Christ-centered education that prepares students to engage actively in a constantly changing world.

Dr. Christina M. Schnyders

The 糖心Vlog (WPU) Board of Trustees announces the appointment of its ninth President, Dr. Christina M. Schnyders, effective August 1, 2026. Dr. Schnyders currently serves as Provost at Malone University, in Canton, Ohio, where she has spent the past 19 years advancing Christ-centered higher education through servant leadership, academic innovation, and deep investment in student success.

A Professor of Counseling and Human Development and a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with Supervisory Designation (LPCC-S), Dr. Schnyders brings a distinctive combination of relational insight, strategic leadership, and mission-driven vision to her work.

Throughout her career at Malone, Dr. Schnyders has served in a variety of leadership roles, including Resident Director, Program Director, Faculty Chair, and Provost. Across each of these positions, she has remained committed to fostering academic excellence, cultivating a vibrant campus community, and supporting the holistic development of students as they discern their calling and vocation.

Dr. Schnyders is an active scholar whose work focuses on emerging adult counseling, counseling termination, and clinical supervision. In 2020, she received the Counselor Educator of the Year award from the Ohio Association for Counselor Education and Supervision. She currently serves as Vice Chair of the Chief Academic Officers group for the Christian College Consortium.

When describing her sense of calling to lead and serve at 糖心Vlog, Dr. Schnyders shared, 鈥淭hroughout this process, I was drawn to Warner Pacific鈥檚 authentic commitment to Christ-centered education, its emphasis on belonging and student transformation, and its unique ability to bring together faith, diversity, and community.鈥�

She explained that she was especially inspired by the Church of God (Anderson) heritage, 鈥渨hich 聽shapes the university鈥檚 commitment to unity, service, and seeing Christ as the center of all we do. I am honored by the opportunity to join a university whose mission aligns so deeply with my own conviction that higher education should help students discover their calling and prepare them to serve others with wisdom, humility, and purpose.鈥�

Dr. Schnyders earned a Ph.D. in Counseling and Human Development Services from Kent State University in 2012. She earned a MA in Clinical and Pastoral Counseling from Ashland Theological Seminary in 2005 and a BA in Psychology from Simpson College (now Simpson University) in 2000.

Dr. Schnyders is married to Scott Schnyders, CEO at Refuge of Hope Ministries, a Christian non-profit organization committed to providing food and shelter to individuals in Stark County, Ohio. Together, they are the parents of two children, Caiden and Madison.

Dr. Schnyders succeeds Interim President Douglas S. Wade, who serves as the university鈥檚 Chief Financial Officer.

View Dr. Schnyders’ Curriculum Vitae (PDF)

Dr. Stephanie Mace received the Excellence in Teaching Award for her outstanding work in supporting students in the social sciences, particularly in social work. Known for her engaging teaching style and commitment to student success, Dr. Mace continues to make a meaningful impact in the classroom and beyond. In keeping with faculty tradition, the award was presented by the previous year鈥檚 recipient, Dr. Steve Waters.

Dr. Kevin Spooner received the Excellence in Scholarship Award in recognition of his significant scholarly contributions, particularly in the areas of educational research and grant writing. His work has advanced institutional goals while contributing to broader academic initiatives. The award was presented by a previous recipient, Prof. Heidi Owsley.

The faculty also celebrated Prof. Heidi Owsley鈥檚 35 years of extraordinary service by recognizing her emerita status as a valued member of the academic community. Over three and a half decades, first as Associate Professor of Humanities and later as Associate Professor of English, Prof. Owsley embodied the mission and values of Warner Pacific and was a beloved mentor and educator to generations of students. Her contributions have left a lasting impact on the University and the lives of those she taught.

Five faculty members were also recognized for achieving new academic ranks this year:

• Dr. Ulf Spears, Associate Professor
• Dr. Stephanie Mace, Professor
• Dr. Bertram Coltman, Professor
• Dr. Jeannie Ray-Timoney, Assistant Professor
• Dr. Kevin Spooner, Associate Professor

鈥淥ur faculty are at the heart of the Warner Pacific experience,鈥� said Dr. Latrissa Neiworth, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of Faculty. 鈥淭hese recognitions celebrate the dedication, scholarship, and care our faculty bring to their work every day.鈥�

糖心Vlog congratulates these distinguished faculty members and celebrates their lasting contributions to students, scholarship, and the University community. Through their dedication and leadership, they continue to advance the University鈥檚 mission and commitment to academic excellence.

It marked the culmination of stories shaped by perseverance, faith, sacrifice, growth, and purpose.

On May 9, graduates crossed the stage at Sunset Church surrounded by faculty, family members, mentors, classmates, and supporters who had walked alongside them throughout their journey. But behind every cap and gown was a story uniquely their own鈥攕tories of late nights, uncertainty, resilience, discovery, and calling.

This year鈥檚 graduating class represented 34 cities across Oregon, 13 states, and four countries. Forty-three percent of graduates were first-generation college students, and graduates ranged in age from 19 to 65.

Together, they reflected the heart of 糖心Vlog: a Christ-centered community where students are challenged academically, supported personally, and encouraged to pursue lives of meaning and service.

A Class Defined by Resilience

For many graduates, the path to commencement required balancing coursework with jobs, athletics, ministry, leadership responsibilities, caregiving, and personal challenges. Some arrived at Warner Pacific uncertain of what the future would hold. Others came carrying responsibilities far beyond the classroom.

Along the way, they discovered confidence, purpose, community, and a deeper understanding of who they were becoming.

鈥淚鈥檝e seen uncertain new students become confident leaders and trained professionals ready to make an immediate difference in their fields,鈥� said Benjamin Leavitt, Director of Academic Services. 鈥淚t鈥檚 been a real privilege to watch the Class of 2026 grow and mature during their time at WPU.鈥�

For Miriam Barajas Carmona, who graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, one word best described her experience at Warner Pacific: 鈥淐ommunity.鈥�

She reflected on the relationships built through long hours in nursing labs, studying alongside classmates, and serving others throughout her time on campus.

鈥淥ne of my best experiences was spending time with my classmates during lab skills class, where we could grow every day,鈥� she shared. 鈥淚 also enjoyed the time that I spent in the library helping students.鈥�

Miriam said Warner Pacific shaped her not only academically, but personally and spiritually.

鈥淚 really like how teachers encourage students to never give up, and the message they shared鈥攖hat God has a plan and purpose for our lives.鈥�

After graduation, Miriam plans to begin her career as a registered nurse in a hospital surgical unit while continuing to pursue future specialization opportunities in critical care nursing.

鈥淔ind your purpose in life by serving others,鈥� she said. 鈥淪tay positive and joyful.鈥�

For Skylar Groesbeck, graduating from Warner Pacific鈥檚 nursing program meant balancing academics, athletics, and clinical preparation while remaining focused on a long-term calling to serve others.

A dual-sport student-athlete and nursing student, Skylar completed her final semester while finishing her capstone experience in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).

鈥淭he university and the nursing program have provided me with the opportunity to continue competing in two collegiate sports while pursuing my education and working toward earning my Bachelor of Science in Nursing,鈥� she shared.

She reflected on how the experience shaped her both personally and professionally.

鈥淭his experience has helped me develop strong time management, teamwork, and resilience skills that will continue to guide me as I begin my career in nursing.鈥�

Skylar鈥檚 story reflects the determination demonstrated by many graduates in the Class of 2026鈥攕tudents who learned to navigate challenge with perseverance and purpose.

For Alex Nisbet, Warner Pacific became a place where athletics, academics, and mentorship came together to shape both his confidence and future direction.

Graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and a minor in Sports Management, Alex described his experience at WPU in one word: 鈥淪uperb.鈥�

Among his favorite memories was hitting his first collegiate home run鈥攁n experience that reflected both perseverance and growth throughout his time as a student-athlete.

But beyond athletics, Alex said the people around him made the greatest impact.

鈥淚 had professors and coaches that not only taught me what they were supposed to teach, but also opened my eyes to how to thrive in the real world.鈥�

After graduation, Alex plans to return to Warner Pacific to pursue his Master of Business Administration (MBA).

His advice to future students reflects a phrase deeply connected to the University itself:聽鈥淒o everything With Purpose.鈥�

Discovering Calling Through Opportunity

For Gianna Paulucci, Warner Pacific became a place where curiosity evolved into calling.

Originally exploring science as a pathway toward medical school, Gianna discovered a deeper passion for research through the mentorship of faculty and opportunities provided through Warner Pacific鈥檚 academic community. As a Murdock Scholar, she conducted pancreatic cancer research at Oregon Health & Science University alongside medical doctors and Ph.D. researchers.

鈥淲arner has provided me with a lot of opportunities through great professors here that have allowed me to pursue my interests,鈥� she said. 鈥淎nd spiritually, the community is extremely Christian-oriented and that has allowed me to deepen my connection to my own faith and explore my connection to God.鈥�

Her experience reflects the kind of transformational opportunities Warner Pacific students continue to pursue across disciplines鈥攆rom nursing and education to business, ministry, social work, athletics, and the sciences.

A Community That Walked Alongside Them

Behind every graduate stood a community of faculty, staff, coaches, mentors, classmates, friends, and family members who invested deeply in their journey.

Dr. Amber Gribbins, Associate Dean of Online and Degree Completion, encouraged graduates to remain courageous and intentional as they move into the next chapter of life.

鈥淏e bold in your asks,鈥� she shared. 鈥淎sk questions, ask for access, ask for guidance, and ask for the opportunity.鈥�

Associate Dean of Education Dr. Kevin Spooner reflected on the importance of community and human connection in an increasingly divided world.

鈥淢y hope and prayer is that as graduates you will all 鈥榯urn toward one another鈥� in this increasingly divided society,鈥� he shared, referencing leadership writer Margaret Wheatley. 鈥淭here is no power greater than a community discovering what it cares about.鈥�

Dr. Gladys Jadagu reminded graduates that their worth extends far beyond accomplishments alone.

鈥淎s you graduate, I hope you carry with you the deep truth that you are more than enough, beautifully and wonderfully made in the image of God,鈥� she shared. 鈥淕o out and conquer, because the world is your oyster.鈥�

Director of Athletic Communications Jaymin Bernhardt reflected honestly on the transition many graduates are about to experience.

鈥淪ometimes the first couple of years out of college can be difficult,鈥� he shared. 鈥淚 would encourage all graduates to find community, enjoy the little things in life as much as the big things, and surround yourselves with the right support system.鈥�

Dean of Academic Operations Dr. Marlo Waters reminded graduates that they leave Warner Pacific supported not only by education, but by the care and prayers of an entire community.

鈥淲e are celebrating their success and praying for each of them to experience God鈥檚 guidance and blessings as they move forward with purpose.鈥�

Director of Counseling Ki Gaines reflected on the character and humanity she witnessed in students throughout the year.

鈥淢y hope for the Class of 2026 is that you leave WPU knowing your worth is not defined solely by your achievements but by the compassion, resilience, and humanity you each bring into the world.鈥�

Together, these reflections captured something deeply true about the Warner Pacific experience: students are not only educated here鈥攖hey are known, encouraged, challenged, and supported by a community that believes in who they are becoming.

Becoming Who They Are Called to Be

Throughout commencement, a common thread emerged鈥攏ot simply what graduates accomplished, but who they became in the process.

In his commencement remarks, Interim President Doug Wade reminded graduates that each person carried a unique story into the ceremony.

鈥淎 story of perseverance. A story of faith. A story of calling,鈥� he shared. 鈥淎nd today, those stories come together in this moment.鈥�

He encouraged graduates to see commencement not simply as the end of a chapter, but as the beginning of what comes next.

鈥淵ou go forward equipped not only with knowledge,鈥� Wade said, 鈥渂ut with character, with purpose, and with faith.鈥�

For the graduates of 糖心Vlog, the lessons carried forward extend beyond classrooms and coursework. They carry with them relationships formed through community, confidence gained through challenge, and a deeper understanding of their calling in the world.

Stepping Forward With Purpose

As the Class of 2026 steps into hospitals, classrooms, businesses, churches, nonprofits, graduate programs, and communities across the country and around the world, their impact is already beginning to take shape.

Some will care for patients.
Some will teach and mentor future generations.
Some will serve churches and communities.
Some will conduct research, advocate for others, lead organizations, or create new opportunities for those around them.

All leave Warner Pacific carrying something greater than a degree alone.

They leave prepared to serve.
Prepared to lead.
Prepared to make a difference.

And perhaps most importantly, prepared to move forward with purpose.

More than a meal, the luncheon created space to reflect on the impact of scholarship support and the ways it continues to shape students鈥� lives鈥攁cademically, spiritually, and personally.

Stories of Calling and Transformation

A central moment of the luncheon was a student panel conversation facilitated by First Lady Danielle Wade, featuring Dominica Griffith Kosloskie, Gianna Paulucci, and Luda Shotropa.

Each student shared their journey鈥攈ighlighting perseverance, growth, and the ways Warner Pacific has helped shape their sense of calling.

Their stories offered a powerful reminder that behind every scholarship is a student navigating real challenges, pursuing meaningful goals, and stepping into who they are called to become.

The Power of Opportunity

Throughout the program, faculty and campus leaders reflected on the importance of scholarships in creating access and removing barriers for students.

Dr. Ulf Spears, Dean of Business, shared a clear and compelling perspective: 鈥淪cholarships give students the opportunity to receive an education without debt鈥攁llowing them to focus, grow, and step fully into their future.鈥�

He emphasized that when financial pressure is reduced, students are able to engage more deeply in their learning, grow with confidence, and build a foundation for long-term success.

A Vision Rooted in Purpose

Interim President Doug Wade invited those gathered to see the moment through a broader lens鈥攐ne grounded in faith, purpose, and lasting impact.

鈥淲hat you鈥檝e seen and heard is more than a moment鈥攊t is a glimpse of what God is doing in the lives of our students.鈥�

He continued by emphasizing the far-reaching impact of investing in students:聽鈥淲hen a student鈥檚 life is changed, it doesn鈥檛 stop there. It reaches families. It strengthens communities. It touches lives we may never see.鈥�

These reflections underscored the shared role of the Warner Pacific community in supporting students as they pursue their education and respond to their calling.

A Community Gathered in Gratitude

From the opening welcome to the closing remarks, the luncheon remained centered on gratitude.

Guests experienced a thoughtful program that included faculty reflections, an academic update, and time for fellowship and connection. Live music from the Warner Pacific worship team created a space that was both celebratory and reflective.

Together, the gathering reflected a community united not only by shared values, but by a shared investment in students and their future.

Continuing the Work Together

As the luncheon concluded, the invitation was clear鈥攃ontinue partnering in the work of supporting students and expanding opportunity.

鈥淓very time you give鈥� every time you invest鈥� you are stepping into their story.鈥�

The President鈥檚 Scholarship Luncheon served as both a moment of reflection and a call to continued engagement鈥攔eminding all in attendance that the impact of generosity extends far beyond a single day.

Through scholarship support, lives are shaped, callings are fulfilled, and communities are strengthened.

糖心Vlog will celebrate its Spring 2026 Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, May 9, at 10:00 AM at Sunset Church in Portland, Oregon.

Family, friends, faculty, and the broader community are invited to gather in celebration of this significant milestone as graduates are recognized for their academic achievements and perseverance.

Honoring the Class of 2026

The ceremony will recognize graduates across a wide range of programs, including undergraduate, graduate, and professional studies, reflecting the diverse paths and accomplishments of Warner Pacific students.

Throughout the ceremony, graduates will be honored not only for their academic success, but for their resilience, leadership, and commitment to growth during their time at the University.

Student Voices and Distinguished Speakers

This year鈥檚 ceremony will feature student speakers representing both traditional and Professional and Graduate Studies programs.

James Francis Boland, Jr., representing Professional and Graduate Studies, and Jo茅l A. Gonzalez, representing traditional undergraduate students, will share reflections on their experiences and the journeys that have shaped their time at Warner Pacific.

The University is also honored to welcome Pastor Mont茅 Dillard, Sr., Interim Director of Church of God Ministries, as the Commencement Speaker.

A Celebration Rooted in Faith and Purpose

The ceremony will include moments of reflection, prayer, and celebration, highlighting the Christ-centered mission of 糖心Vlog.

From the opening invocation to the conferral of degrees and the traditional turning of tassels, commencement serves as both a culmination of students鈥� academic journeys and a sending forward into lives of purpose, service, and impact.

Join the Celebration

The Spring 2026 Commencement Ceremony will take place at:

Sunset Church
14986 NW Cornell Road
Portland, Oregon
Saturday, May 9, 2026
10:00 AM

For those unable to attend in person, additional details and livestream information will be available on the 糖心Vlog Commencement webpage.

The recognition reflected a defining aspect of the Warner Pacific experience: leadership is not simply a role, but a commitment to showing up for others and strengthening the campus community.

Student Organizations Shape Campus Life

Student organizations play a vital role in creating spaces where students connect, grow, and belong. Through events, programming, and peer leadership, these groups help shape the student experience in meaningful and lasting ways.

The following student organizations were recognized for their leadership and contributions this year:

• Nursing Student Club
• Chess Club
• Music Club
• Black Student Union
• Knights of Psychology Club
• SOMOS Knights

Each organization reflects the diverse interests, identities, and passions that make up the Warner Pacific community.

Recognizing Leadership and Impact

This year鈥檚 individual awards highlighted students whose leadership has made a lasting impact across campus鈥攖hrough residence life, student government, and spiritual leadership.

Angel Perez-Nino, a Resident Assistant and graduating senior, was recognized with the Community Impact Award for creating spaces of connection and belonging within the campus community. Through daily interactions and intentional presence, Angel has helped foster a culture of care and support among students.

Joel Gonzalez, President of the Student Government and also a graduating senior, received the Student Leadership Award in recognition of his leadership, initiative, and commitment to representing and serving the student body. His work has strengthened student voice, advocacy, and engagement across campus.

Ja鈥檚hawn Young, Student Chaplain, was honored with the Kingdom Leadership Award for demonstrating Christ-centered leadership through service, purpose, and conviction. His leadership has helped shape the spiritual life of the campus, guiding and encouraging others in their faith.

Continuing a Legacy of Ministry and Leadership

In addition to this year鈥檚 award recipients, several graduating students from the Ministry Team were also recognized for their faithful leadership and service throughout their time at Warner Pacific.

Denise Rendon, Genevieve Worthington, and Natalie Siquina Garcia have each contributed to the spiritual life of the campus, helping lead, serve, and support their peers in meaningful ways.

As these students graduate, new leadership is already stepping forward. Hannah Whitman has been named Assistant Student Chaplain, continuing the work of fostering spiritual growth and community among students.

A Community Built Through Leadership

鈥淭hese recognitions are not just about roles or titles,鈥� said Eric Colon-Cortes, Chief of Staff and Dean of Students. 鈥淭hey reflect the ways our students show up for one another, build community, and help create a place where people are known and valued.鈥�

As graduating seniors prepare for what comes next and new leaders step into their roles, their impact remains evident in the strength and spirit of the Warner Pacific community.

Through leadership, service, and everyday interactions, these students help shape a campus environment where individuals are supported, connected, and encouraged to grow.

Led by Dr. Therese Albert, Assistant Professor of Chemistry, this initiative provides students with direct access to advanced research laboratories and instrumentation鈥攁n experience rarely available at small undergraduate institutions.

Beginning May 18, 2026, students will participate in approximately one month of volunteer research, contributing to ongoing scientific investigations in metalloprotein chemistry.

A Real Research Experience鈥擭ot a Simulation

Unlike many undergraduate lab experiences, students in this program will not be completing pre-designed exercises. Instead, they will contribute to real, ongoing research alongside active scientists.

鈥淭his opportunity gives our students direct access to world-class research facilities and instrumentation,鈥� said Dr. Albert. 鈥淭hey are not completing simulated exercises鈥攖hey are contributing to meaningful scientific investigations.鈥�

Through this experience, students will engage with complex research questions while developing practical skills using advanced techniques, including spectroscopy.

Learning in a Professional Research Environment

Working in a professional research setting allows students to see how science operates beyond the classroom.

鈥淭hey learn how experiments are designed, executed, analyzed, and discussed in a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment,鈥� Dr. Albert shared. 鈥淭his exposure helps students better understand expectations in graduate school, medical research, and industry, while building confidence in their ability to belong in these spaces.鈥�

For many students, this kind of experience is transformational鈥攂ridging the gap between academic learning and real-world application.

Building Confidence and Career Readiness

A key outcome of the experience is student growth and confidence.

鈥淲hat excites me most is watching students realize that they are capable of tackling complex scientific questions,鈥� said Dr. Albert. 鈥淪tudents move from following instructions to thinking like scientists鈥攁sking questions, interpreting data, and making informed decisions.鈥�

Students will leave the experience with:

• Strong foundational research skills
• Confidence in their scientific abilities
• Clearer direction for graduate school or career pathways
• A deeper understanding of how chemistry connects to biology, medicine, and human health

In addition, students gain valuable preparation for future opportunities through:

• Hands-on research experience
• Faculty mentorship and professional references
• Exposure to advanced instrumentation
• Opportunities for presentations, posters, and potentially co-authorship

These experiences are highly valued by graduate programs, medical schools, and research-focused employers.

Connecting Science to Health and Human Impact

In simple terms, students will work in a real research lab to study how metals in proteins help living systems function.

They will use advanced tools to observe how proteins behave and change, contributing to scientific questions that help researchers better understand disease and human health.

Expanding Opportunities for Students

This experience connects Warner Pacific students with advanced research environments while maintaining the close mentorship and support that define the University.

鈥淚t allows students to gain experiences usually associated with much larger institutions while maintaining the personalized support that defines WPU,鈥� Dr. Albert explained.

As the program develops, it will continue to create opportunities for students to engage in meaningful research and explore pathways in science, medicine, and health-related fields.

How to Get Involved

Students interested in participating are encouraged to express interest by early May 2026. Because this is the first year of the program, applications will be accepted on a rolling basis from interested and committed students.

Interested in research, chemistry, or health sciences?

Explore Warner Pacific鈥檚 degrees and find the path that prepares you for careers in science, medicine, and health.

Explore Degrees & Programs

Kinesiology Students: Bryten Gumke, Fernanda Nunez and Naomi Johnson

糖心Vlog kinesiology students recently represented the University at the Northwest Chapter of the American College of Sports Medicine (NWACSM) Annual Meeting, held April 1鈥�3 at the University of Idaho.

Accompanied by instructor Dr. Ken Ecker, students Bryten Gumke, Naomi Johnson, and Fernanda Nunez joined peers and professionals from across the region for a conference centered on this year鈥檚 theme, 鈥淚nnovation Meets Application: Building the Future of Exercise Science.鈥�

The event brought together emerging and established leaders in sports medicine and kinesiology, offering students exposure to cutting-edge research, interactive sessions, and meaningful networking opportunities within the field.

As part of the conference, WPU students competed in the NWACSM Student Knowledge Bowl 鈥� a fast-paced, Jeopardy-style competition covering key topics in exercise science and sports medicine. Competing against 20 universities, the WPU team placed 10th in their first-ever appearance in the event.

鈥淭his experience gave our students the opportunity to apply what they鈥檝e learned in the classroom while engaging directly with professionals and peers in their field,鈥� said Dr. Ecker.

For the students, the experience extended beyond competition. It was an opportunity to grow academically and professionally, build connections, and gain a deeper understanding of their calling in kinesiology and sports medicine.

On February 20, more than 100 members of the Warner Pacific community gathered in McGuire Auditorium to celebrate athletics and invest in the future of our student-athletes. Marking the return of the Gala for the first time since 2020, the evening reflected a community aligned around purpose.

From the beginning, the room carried a sense of energy and connection. Students engaged with guests, conversations filled the space, and supporters participated in raffles and silent auction bidding鈥攁ll contributing to a shared investment in student success. In a nod to the evening鈥檚 鈥渄ress your best with your best sneakers鈥� theme, guests brought both style and personality, adding a unique and memorable touch to the celebration.

The program also honored President Emeritus Dr. Jay Barber with a Legacy Award, recognizing his role in restoring athletics at Warner Pacific and shaping a program that continues to develop leaders of character, discipline, and faith.

The defining moment of the evening came during the paddle raise. What began as an ambitious goal resulted in $100,000 raised for student-athlete scholarships鈥攁n outcome made possible through the collective generosity of alumni, partners, and friends, and strengthened through the leadership and partnership of United Way of the Columbia-Willamette.

鈥淎s we planned this Gala, I carried a goal in mind,鈥� said Matt Gregg, Athletic Director. 鈥淭o see our community exceed it in such a meaningful way was incredible. I鈥檓 especially grateful for our partnership with United Way and Kelly O鈥橪ague. Their care for our student-athletes was evident throughout the entire evening. This is just the beginning of what鈥檚 possible.鈥�

This moment was not defined by a single night, but by what it now makes possible. Every dollar raised directly supports students鈥攅xpanding access, reducing financial barriers, and creating opportunity for student-athletes to pursue their academic and athletic goals with confidence. This is where impact becomes real: in the lives of students who are being equipped, supported, and prepared to lead with purpose.

鈥淲e give thanks to God,鈥� said Douglas Wade, Interim President of 糖心Vlog. 鈥淣ot only for the provision that made this possible, but for the people He brought together in support of our students. What took place was a powerful reminder that when a community moves in unity with purpose, the impact extends far beyond a single moment.鈥�

The Night of Knights Gala was not simply a return. It was a statement about who we are, what we value, and what we are building together.