糖心Vlog (WPU) is expanding its Master of Business Administration (MBA) program with five new concentrations in Artificial Intelligence, Business Analytics, Cybersecurity, Finance, and Healthcare Administration through a new partnership with , a leader in innovative, career-ready degree programs.

Designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in today’s evolving business landscape, each concentration focuses on areas of expertise in demand across a wide range of industries. The new offerings complement Warner Pacific’s core MBA program, which is available in flexible online and hybrid/HyFlex formats tailored to working professionals.

As part of the partnership, Rize Education is providing WPU with $65,000 in grant funding supported by Google.org, including $55,000 for the 2026鈥�27 academic year and an additional $10,000 for 2027鈥�28. The funding will help offset initial partnership start-up costs and support Warner Pacific’s student population, which includes nearly 50% first-generation college students in any given year.

鈥淲arner Pacific has always believed that education should open doors and create pathways to meaningful purpose and opportunity,鈥� said Dr. Christina M. Schnyders, President of 糖心Vlog.

Through the partnership, Warner Pacific is expanding opportunities for students to pursue advanced education in high-demand fields while preparing them for leadership in a changing workforce.

鈥淭hrough our partnership with Rize Education and the support of the $65,000 Google.org grant, we are able to offer innovative MBA concentrations in some of the most in-demand fields. This investment reflects our commitment to preparing students not only for career success, but also for lives of leadership, service, and impact,鈥� Schnyders added.

The initiative marks the first year of a multiyear partnership with Rize Education, which has partnered with more than 145 small and midsized universities across the United States. Through Rize’s innovative program-sharing model, institutions can launch and grow high-demand academic programs more quickly and affordably than they could independently.

The five new MBA concentrations offer specialized areas of study designed to address emerging business and workforce needs:

• Artificial Intelligence: Focuses on the application of AI technologies in business decision-making.
• Business Analytics: Emphasizes data-driven strategies for improving organizational performance.
• Cybersecurity: Addresses the growing need for professionals who can protect sensitive information and manage risks in an increasingly digital environment.
• Finance: Provides students with a comprehensive understanding of financial markets and investment strategies.
• Healthcare Administration: Prepares students to lead healthcare organizations, manage complex systems, and drive innovation and operational excellence.

These concentrations were developed by Rize Education in partnership with Harvard Business School, the University of Texas at Austin, Cornell University, and Dartmouth.

鈥淏y launching these five highly specialized MBA concentrations, 糖心Vlog is ensuring our graduates don’t just enter the workforce鈥攖hey lead it,鈥� said Dr. Latrissa Lee Neiworth, Vice President of Academic Affairs at 糖心Vlog. 鈥淭his partnership allows us to deliver cutting-edge, industry-aligned education in the most high-demand fields shaping the future of industry.鈥�

Enrollment for the new MBA concentrations for the Spring 2027 academic term will begin in January. Applications are being accepted now. Prospective students interested in learning more are encouraged to request information or explore 糖心Vlog’s graduate admission requirements to begin the application process.

About Rize Education

Rize Education partners with more than 145 colleges and universities to develop career-focused academic programs aligned with current workforce demands. The company specializes in creating specialized tracks that enhance student employability in high-growth industries.

糖心Vlog will celebrate a new chapter in its history during Presidential Inauguration Week, October 5鈥�9, culminating in the formal inauguration of Dr. Christina M. Schnyders as the University’s ninth president on Friday, October 9.

Under the theme 鈥淩ooted in Promise. Rising with Purpose,鈥� the week will bring together students, faculty, staff, alumni, church leaders, and community partners to celebrate Warner Pacific’s history, Christ-centered mission, and future.

The celebrations carry additional significance as the University commemorates the 50th anniversary of McGuire Auditorium, recognizes its founding through Founder’s Day, and invites the community to participate in Give Week.

Honoring Our Legacy. Investing in Our Future.

Inauguration Week begins Monday, October 5, with Founder’s Day, an opportunity to reflect on Warner Pacific’s history and the generations of students, faculty, staff, alumni, and supporters who have shaped the University.

The celebrations also coincide with Give Week, bringing the Warner Pacific community together in support of the University’s mission and the students whose lives are transformed through education.

Throughout the week, the University will host gatherings reflecting its commitment to faith, academic excellence, student engagement, and community.

On Tuesday, October 6, church and community leaders will gather for the Pastor’s Prayer Breakfast, followed by Chapel and a student celebration. On Thursday, October 8, a Faculty Symposium will highlight the University’s academic community and its commitment to teaching, scholarship, and student success.

Together, these events offer opportunities to honor Warner Pacific’s legacy, celebrate its community, and look toward the future.

McGuire Auditorium: Celebrating 50 Years

As Warner Pacific prepares to inaugurate its ninth president, the University will also celebrate the 50th anniversary of McGuire Auditorium, a beloved gathering place at the heart of campus life.

Dedicated in 1976 through the generosity of the Williamson family and many others, McGuire Auditorium has brought generations together in worship, celebration, learning, and community.

From convocations and commencements to musical performances, inspirational speakers, fellowship, and prayer, its walls hold five decades of moments that have shaped the Warner Pacific story.

The University will recognize this milestone during the presidential inauguration, honoring the memories made within McGuire’s walls and the generations still to come.

The anniversary provides a meaningful connection between the University’s history and this new chapter in presidential leadership.

A New Chapter in Presidential Leadership

The week’s celebrations will culminate on Friday, October 9, with the formal inauguration of Dr. Christina M. Schnyders as the ninth president of 糖心Vlog.

Dr. Schnyders assumed office on August 1, 2026, bringing more than two decades of leadership experience in Christian higher education. She previously served as provost and tenured professor at Malone University. A licensed professional clinical counselor, she earned her Ph.D. from Kent State University.

Her inauguration marks an important moment as Warner Pacific continues its commitment to Christ-centered academic excellence, holistic student development, and preparing graduates to serve their communities with purpose.

The investiture ceremony will take place at 3 pm on Friday, October 9, in McGuire Auditorium, followed by a community reception on A.F. Gray Lawn.

As Warner Pacific celebrates its history and welcomes a new chapter in presidential leadership, Inauguration Week offers an opportunity for the University community to come together in gratitude for the generations who have shaped its story and in anticipation of the possibilities ahead.

Join Us for Presidential Inauguration Week

Explore the complete schedule of events, learn more about the celebrations, and RSVP for the presidential inauguration.

Explore Inauguration Week

During her time in Zimbabwe in July and August, Siwela-Jadagu engaged with university leaders, educators, policymakers, and academic collaborators while continuing her own scholarly work. Her experiences included conversations about emerging technologies and the future of education, work on a forthcoming publication examining artificial intelligence in African higher education, and collaboration on a Global Business Management textbook.

Connecting Research, Innovation and Education

Dr. Gladys Siwela-Jadagu with leaders from Zimbabwe Open University, including Professor Chikowore, Vice Chancellor Professor Paul Gundani, and Pro Vice Chancellor for Research, Innovation and Enterprise Development Professor Tavonga Njaya.

On July 30, Siwela-Jadagu attended the Zimbabwe Open University Research and Innovation Conference at the university鈥檚 Hatcliffe Campus. Held under the theme From Ideas to Impact: Advancing Research and Innovation for National Transformation, the conference brought together members of the university community to explore research, innovation, and Zimbabwe鈥檚 Education 5.0 model.

While at the conference, Siwela-Jadagu engaged with university leadership, including the Vice Chancellor and Pro-Vice Chancellor, as well as academics and students. She also attended a Business Plan Presentation Contest, providing another opportunity to observe conversations around innovation and entrepreneurship within the university environment.

The conversations continued beyond higher education.

Dr. Gladys Siwela-Jadagu with Zimbabwe鈥檚 Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Hon. Torerayi Moyo.

On August 6, Siwela-Jadagu met with Zimbabwe鈥檚 Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Hon. Torerayi Moyo. Their discussion focused on developments within Zimbabwe鈥檚 education system, including the Heritage-Based Curriculum and Education 5.0 framework, as well as the role of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies in education.

Their conversation also explored the opportunities and challenges associated with emerging technologies, the importance of education keeping pace with technological change, and how artificial intelligence can support rather than replace critical thinking and human capability.

For Siwela-Jadagu, those conversations also have relevance for her work with students at Warner Pacific.

鈥淭hese experiences gave me an opportunity to engage directly with educators, policymakers, and colleagues around many of the same issues shaping our classrooms today, particularly artificial intelligence, innovation, and the future of education,鈥� said Siwela-Jadagu. 鈥淏ringing those perspectives back to Warner Pacific enriches my teaching and helps our students think more globally about the opportunities and challenges they will encounter in their own careers.鈥�

Scholarship at the Intersection of AI and Education

The conversations Siwela-Jadagu encountered in Zimbabwe were particularly relevant to her current scholarly work.

Together with Meredith Killgore Villa, Instructional Designer at Warner Pacific, she is contributing a chapter to a forthcoming book to be published by Africa University. Their chapter, Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Teaching in Africa: Pedagogy, Technology Exclusion, and Epistemic Justice, examines the implications of AI for teaching and learning in African higher education.

The work considers issues including pedagogy, critical thinking, technology exclusion, and responsible AI integration. During her time in Zimbabwe, Siwela-Jadagu and Killgore Villa responded to reviewer feedback and continued revising and editing the chapter.

Working on the scholarship while in Zimbabwe created a timely connection between her research and broader conversations taking place around Education 5.0, innovation, technology access, and the future of education.

Building Global Professional Connections

Siwela-Jadagu also used her time in Zimbabwe to reconnect with the Macroeconomic and Financial Management Institute of Eastern and Southern Africa (MEFMI), where she previously worked.

During the visit, she met informally with the director responsible for MEFMI鈥檚 Debt Management Program. The organization provides capacity-building programs for officials from its member countries, particularly those working in central banks and ministries of finance. Its Debt Management Program is exploring opportunities for university-based academic certification for participants who complete its professional training program.

Her summer engagements also included meeting with colleagues contributing to a Global Business Management textbook currently in development. Their conversations focused on the direction of the book, individual chapter contributions, and next steps as the collaborators begin identifying and engaging reviewers.

鈥淒r. Siwela-Jadagu鈥檚 international engagement reflects the kind of scholarship and professional experience that strengthens our School of Business,鈥� said Dr. Ulf Spears, Dean of the School of Business. 鈥淭hese connections bring global perspectives into the learning environment and help prepare our students to lead and serve in an increasingly interconnected world.鈥�

Siwela-Jadagu鈥檚 summer engagements reflect the connection between faculty scholarship, professional experience, and student learning at Warner Pacific. By remaining engaged in global conversations shaping business, technology, and education, WPU faculty can bring current perspectives and real-world experience into the classroom鈥攈elping students understand their fields within an increasingly interconnected world.

The five-year project, 鈥淧athways to STEM Teaching: Strengthening 糖心Vlog,鈥� is being awarded through the U.S. Department of Labor, with the Office of Postsecondary Education serving as the program office. The award supports Warner Pacific鈥檚 efforts to strengthen institutional capacity while expanding career pathways and workforce readiness.

鈥淭his grant reflects what is possible when a community comes together around a shared mission,鈥� said Dr. Christina Schnyders, President of 糖心Vlog. 鈥淎s a Christ-centered university committed to serving our city and region, we have an incredible opportunity to expand access to STEM education, develop future educators, and create lasting impact for students, schools, and communities across Oregon.鈥�

Through the grant, Warner Pacific will have the opportunity to develop a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education with STEM teaching endorsements, pending required Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) and Oregon Teacher Standards and Practices Commission (TSPC) approvals. Planned endorsement pathways include Health Science, Integrated Science, Chemistry, Physics, Foundational Mathematics, and Advanced Mathematics. The University will also have the opportunity to embed STEM teaching endorsements into existing high-enrollment academic programs and develop accelerated, hybrid, and flexible course-delivery formats to better serve working learners and future educators.

鈥淭his federal grant is a tremendous affirmation of our mission and our commitment to providing accessible, high-quality educational opportunities that equip students to serve and lead in our local community,鈥� said Dr. Latrissa Lee Neiworth, Vice President of Academic Affairs and Chief Academic Officer at 糖心Vlog. 鈥淭he five-year grant will enable WPU to strengthen our STEM and teacher education offerings while helping address critical workforce needs across Oregon.鈥�

The grant will also provide opportunities for significant investments in Warner Pacific鈥檚 STEM learning environments, including the renovation and modernization of five STEM teaching and research laboratories. Investments will include instructional technology, scientific equipment, reagents, sensors, and field science materials, along with the establishment of a dedicated STEM teaching and secondary education methods laboratory.

Student-success initiatives supported through the project will include enhanced advising, guided academic pathways, early alert systems, and faculty development. Warner Pacific will also work to strengthen the region鈥檚 K鈥�12-to-college STEM pipeline through a Summer STEM Academy, dual-credit opportunities, transfer partnerships, and an Urban STEM Studies Hub.

By the fifth year of the project, Warner Pacific expects the initiative to contribute to increased enrollment, improved student retention and graduation outcomes, expanded STEM pathways, and a new generation of qualified STEM educators prepared to serve Oregon schools. The initiative is also intended to help reduce school districts鈥� reliance on emergency-licensed STEM teachers while strengthening the University鈥檚 long-term institutional sustainability.

The project brings together Warner Pacific with educational and community partners across the region, including Portland Public Schools, David Douglas School District, Reynolds School District, Portland Community College, Mt. Hood Community College, Clackamas Community College, Oregon Health & Science University, Oregon State University, and the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge. Together, the partners will work to create new opportunities for students while addressing educational and workforce needs throughout the region.

The recognition reflects Warner Pacific鈥檚 continued commitment to expanding access to higher education and supporting students as they pursue their educational, professional, and personal goals.

In addition to retaining its No. 1 Social Mobility ranking, Warner Pacific received recognition across several categories in the 2027 rankings:

• #1 鈥� Top Performers on Social Mobility, Regional Colleges (West)
• #6 鈥� Top Private Schools, Regional Colleges (West)
• #7 鈥� Regional Colleges (West)
• #9 鈥� Best Value Schools, Regional Colleges (West)

The Top Private Schools ranking is a new U.S. News category for 2027, placing Warner Pacific at No. 6 among private Regional Colleges in the West. WPU also continues to rank among the top Regional Colleges in the West overall and among the region鈥檚 Best Value Schools.

Continuing a Commitment to Social Mobility

Warner Pacific鈥檚 continued No. 1 ranking for Social Mobility is particularly significant to the University鈥檚 mission. U.S. News evaluates social mobility based on how well institutions enroll and graduate students who receive federal Pell Grants, which are generally awarded to undergraduate students with significant financial need.

For Warner Pacific, the recognition reflects a longstanding commitment to making a transformative college education accessible to students from a wide range of backgrounds.

As Oregon鈥檚 first four-year Hispanic Serving Institution, Warner Pacific serves one of the most diverse student populations in the region. With a 14:1 student-to-faculty ratio, students experience a highly personalized education grounded in academic excellence, faith, service and meaningful relationships.

Recognized for Value and Student Opportunity

Warner Pacific鈥檚 2027 U.S. News recognition also includes a No. 9 Best Value Schools ranking among Regional Colleges in the West. The Best Value ranking considers academic quality alongside the cost of attendance for students receiving need-based financial aid.

Together, the rankings highlight Warner Pacific鈥檚 distinctive role as a Christ-centered university committed to providing students with an accessible, high-quality education and preparing graduates to serve and lead with purpose.

The 2027 U.S. News Best Colleges rankings evaluate colleges and universities across a range of measures related to student outcomes, academic quality and institutional resources.

As part of the partnership, college-age Winterhawks players will attend courses at Warner Pacific, including Sociology in Sport and English Composition and Research. Players will travel to WPU’s Mt. Tabor campus weekly, where they will learn alongside other Warner Pacific undergraduate students and have access to campus resources and activities, including the University library, dining services, and WPU athletic events.

The partnership supports the Winterhawks’ commitment to the continued education and development of their players. The Western Hockey League requires players to remain actively enrolled in an education program until graduation, allowing athletes to continue their academic progress while balancing the demands of practices, competition, and travel.

“We are honored to welcome Winterhawks players into the Warner Pacific community and to partner in their development as students, athletes, and leaders,鈥� said Dr. Christina Schnyders, President of 糖心Vlog. 鈥淭his collaboration reflects our shared commitment to investing in people and equipping them to thrive in their education, their careers, and their lives.”

Through the partnership agreement, 糖心Vlog also becomes an official sponsor of the Portland Winterhawks. The two organizations will collaborate on educational opportunities, student achievements, and community engagement throughout the year. Members of the WPU community will also have opportunities to attend Winterhawks games and participate in Winterhawks events.

“We are excited to partner with Warner Pacific for next season,” said Mike Johnston, President and General Manager of the Portland Winterhawks. “It has always been a priority of ours to provide our athletes with the best educational options available. Warner Pacific allows us to accomplish that goal.”

The partnership brings together two Portland organizations with a shared commitment to developing people and strengthening community. The Winterhawks have been recognized by the Western Hockey League for community engagement, while Warner Pacific is known for providing accessible, high-quality education to students from diverse backgrounds and for its commitment to social mobility.

For Warner Pacific, the partnership also provides another opportunity to extend the University’s educational mission beyond traditional pathways and welcome new learners into its academic community.

Held at Glendoveer Golf Course and presented by Mercer Advisors, the 2026 tournament welcomed 22 foursomes and raised $26,145 for student-athlete scholarships.

鈥淥nce again, we had a great field of supporters at our second annual golf tournament,鈥� said Warner Pacific Athletic Director Matt Gregg. 鈥淚 certainly want to thank our major sponsor, Mercer Advisors, along with United Way and our many hole sponsors. From the feedback I received, people loved our venue at Glendoveer Golf Course, our raffle prizes, and hearing from our new University President, Dr. Christina Schnyders, about her vision moving forward.鈥�

The tournament also provided an opportunity for members of the Warner Pacific community to hear from President Schnyders and connect with supporters who share a commitment to the success of Knights student-athletes.

On the course, Kris Fay, Alden Fay, Jake Larson, and Kyle Gomez claimed the tournament title. Competing in the scramble format, the foursome finished an impressive 18-under par.

The event was made possible through collaboration between Warner Pacific Athletics and the University鈥檚 Advancement team, along with the support of sponsors, volunteers, staff, and participants.

Mercer Advisors served as the presenting sponsor, providing significant support for the tournament, fielding two foursomes, and hosting a tent at the Hole 9 tee box.

Warner Pacific also extends its appreciation to the organizations that supported this year鈥檚 tournament:

• Office Solutions
• EPI
• Adidas
• Dinsmore Auto Group
• Swoon Florist
• PNC Bank
• Chiro One
• Sanctuary Inn
• KadMark Print & Embroidery
• Minuteman Press
• Chick-fil-A
• Unisource MFG
• Sodexo Catering
• United Way of the Columbia-Willamette
• Peaceful & Recreational Athletics Inc.
• Enterprise Rentals
• Game One
• Viewpoint Coachlines

The tournament continues to create an opportunity for the Warner Pacific community and its partners to come together while investing directly in students. The $26,145 raised will directly support scholarships for Knights student-athletes as they pursue their academic and athletic goals at WPU.

The 2027 Knights Athletics Fundraiser Golf Tournament is scheduled for August 27, 2027, with Warner Pacific looking forward to welcoming supporters back to the course for another year of community and support for Knights Athletics.

PORTLAND, Ore. 鈥� 糖心Vlog recorded its largest incoming class since 2020 this fall, with 175 new students enrolling for Fall 2026 鈥� a 15% increase over Fall 2025.

The incoming class includes 59 first-time freshmen and 116 transfer and post-baccalaureate students. First-time freshman enrollment increased 47.5% from last fall, reaching its highest level since 2021.

The growth comes as Warner Pacific begins a new chapter under President Dr. Christina Schnyders, who became the University’s ninth president on August 1.

鈥淭his incoming class reflects the growing impact of Warner Pacific鈥檚 mission, and the value students and families place on an education that is both transformational and purpose-driven,鈥� Schnyders said. 鈥淎s a Christ-centered university rooted in Portland, we are committed to creating pathways to higher education and opportunities for students to thrive academically, intellectually, socially, and spiritually within a community where they are known, supported, and challenged to grow.鈥�

The Fall 2026 class also reflects Warner Pacific’s longstanding commitment to access and opportunity. Among new students, 40% are first-generation college students, 63% are students of color, and 46% are Pell-eligible.

Warner Pacific continues to draw heavily from Portland and the Pacific Northwest. Fifty-five percent of incoming students are from Oregon, including 42% from the greater Portland area, while 22% are from Washington. The class represents 15 states and five countries, with international students from Kenya, Ethiopia, Nepal, Nigeria and Vietnam.

Students are pursuing programs across the University, with particularly strong interest in health care. Approximately one-third of new students are pursuing Nursing or Pre-Nursing. Thirty-five percent are entering programs within the College of Arts & Sciences, and 18% are entering the School of Business. In addition, 58.3% of incoming students are student-athletes.

Scott Nelson, Associate Vice President for Undergraduate Admissions, said Warner Pacific’s combination of personal attention, affordability, location and Christian mission continues to resonate with prospective students and families.

“Warner Pacific offers students the close relationships and personal attention of a small University alongside the opportunities that come from living and learning in Portland,” Nelson said. “Students can build meaningful relationships with faculty and one another while having access to employers, health care organizations, schools, nonprofits and other opportunities throughout the region. Combined with our Christian foundation and commitment to affordability, that creates something truly distinctive.”

For Schnyders, the enrollment results are encouraging not simply because of the growth they represent, but because of the students behind them.

鈥淥ur enrollment growth is certainly encouraging, but what excites me most are the students behind these numbers.聽 Each student brings a unique story, and we have the privilege of walking alongside them as they gain career-readiness, discover their purpose, and prepare to make meaningful contributions in their communities and professions.聽 At Warner Pacific, we are committed to providing a transformational educational experience that develops the whole person and equips students to lead, serve, and make a difference in the world.鈥�

PORTLAND, Ore. 鈥�

Reed College earned the top spot in the new Oregon rankings, but Warner Pacific is ranked No. 9, ahead of institutions such as George Fox, Lewis & Clark and Pacific. Warner Pacific also fared better in the rankings than the majority of public universities in Oregon.

鈥淲e’re proud of the quality of education we provide and the personal attention our students receive here,鈥� said Eric Colon-Cortes, Chief of Staff & Dean of Students at WPU. 鈥淲e provide not only one of the best faith-based educational experiences in the region, but one of the best educational experiences overall.鈥�

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.