Last May, the Celebrate Azusa Citizens Scholarship Program awarded its first scholarships to Lidia Badillo ’04 and Joseph Denny ’04. Badillo, an Azusa High School graduate, and Denny, a Gladstone High School graduate, were selected for their impressive academic records and community-minded involvement. Badillo earned a 3.8 grade-point average (GPA), participated in drama, and worked with children at her church. Denny maintained a 4.4 GPA while being active in a number of school activities, including the Science Club, the Concert and Marching Band, and the California Scholarship Federation.
Molly Sanchez ’98, admissions counselor and member of the scholarship selection committee, said Badillo and Denny were obvious choices. “These students are truly two of Azusa’s finest,” Sanchez said. “We are very happy they have chosen to pursue their education at Azusa Pacific. I think they will greatly contribute to APU during the next four years.” Both Badillo and Denny were drawn to Azusa Pacific for similar reasons. Badillo knew she belonged at APU after attending a Preview Weekend. “I was really impressed by chapel,” Badillo said. “It was amazing to see so many students gathered together worshipping God. This, more than anything, was the decisive factor in my decision to attend APU.”
Denny, whose older brother is also a Cougar, knew that attending the university would enable him to grow in spirit and character. While visiting the campus with his father, Denny was impressed by the faith evidenced by the students, faculty, and staff with whom he spoke. “I realized that APU is a genuine Christian university in practice as well as in name,” Denny said. “And I knew this would be a place where I could grow as a whole person.”
Both Badillo and Denny eagerly anticipate making the most of their college experience. Denny, who is already involved in an on-campus Bible study and intramural football, hopes to impact the spiritual climate of Azusa Pacific. “There are many areas in which I’d like to contribute to APU,” Denny said. “I want to be a leader on campus who brings others into a fuller understanding of Jesus Christ.”
Denny, whose older brother is also a Cougar, knew that attending the university would enable him to grow in spirit and character. While visiting the campus with his father, Denny was impressed by the faith evidenced by the students, faculty, and staff with whom he spoke.
“I realized that APU is a genuine Christian university in practice as well as in name,” Denny said. “And I knew this would be a place where I could grow as a whole person.”
Both Badillo and Denny eagerly anticipate making the most of their college experience. Denny, who is already involved in an on-campus Bible study and intramural football, hopes to impact the spiritual climate of Azusa Pacific. “There are many areas in which I’d like to contribute to APU,” Denny said. “I want to be a leader on campus who brings others into a fuller understanding of Jesus Christ.”
Badillo is taking this semester to acclimate to college life, but she plans to get involved in the future. “I’m very interested in working with Azusa children in a mentoring capacity,” she said. “Ultimately, I’d like to get involved in some type of a drama outreach to children in Mexico.”
For Badillo, Denny, and many more Azusa youth, this scholarship program opens the door to quality education at a local university. “For the students who have been awarded the scholarship this year, for those who have not yet graduated from high school, and for those still in grade school, this scholarship is a dream come true.”
“This program solidifies the relationship that APU and the city of Azusa have forged. I hope that our partnership continues to grow,” Roche said.
Ginny Dadaian, director of student financial services, also sees this positive connection. “This scholarship offers another way in which APU can reach out to the community of Azusa and let them know we are serious about partnership,” she said.
In order to retain the $5,000, renewable scholarship, Badillo and Denny must maintain a 2.7 GPA, take at least 12 units a semester, and devote 10 hours per week to community service. As part of their service, Badillo and Denny will work as peer counselors to Azusa’s high schools students, answering questions about college life and encouraging high school students to pursue a college education. Sanchez views this as an ideal situation. “Both Joseph and Lidia are passionate about giving back to and reinvesting in the city that had given so much to them during their high school years,” she said. “They want to urge others to aim high.”
Professors and administrators in APU’s College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS) recently designed a program that blends the study of classic art, music, literature, philosophy, religion, and history with the scenic environment of California’s High Sierra.
As participants in the Great Works Option (now High Sierra Semester, about 40 Azusa Pacific students and faculty members will spend a semester living in a Christian conference center at Bass Lake, just south of Yosemite National Park. Students will study the writings of Plato, the artwork of Cézanne, and the theology of Augustine, among other works. The option offers students an opportunity to earn up to 17 units of general studies requirements in either the fall or spring semester. Courses will differ each
semester, allowing students to participate in the program both semesters, earning a possible total of 34 units. Christopher Flannery, Ph.D., chair and professor of political science and history, along with other liberal arts faculty, designed the program curriculum. “The study and discussion of these great works provide a powerful introduction to liberal education for those students with high personal motivation to explore life’s great questions,” he said. >”Students will study the writings of Plato, the artwork of Cézanne, and the theology of Augustine, among other works.” Each term, students will engage in an integrated study of art, literature, history, philosophy, science, and theology, focusing on these issues in small groups with faculty teaching the material on site and via the Internet from the Azusa campus. Tuition, room, and board costs are expected to be equivalent to standard semester costs. Rae Newstad, Ph.D., assistant professor of history, said the Great Works Option will benefit students in several ways. “The small class sections will provide more time for discussing and exploring the class readings,” she said. “And the coordination of these courses will make each one more valuable than if they were taken separately.” “I’m excited about directing a cutting-edge educational program from its inception,” said Don Lawrence, Ed.D., director of the Great Works Option. “I wish every student could have the experience of studying in this environment.” If you are interested in being a part of the Great Works Option or would like more information, visit www.apu.edu/highsierra/.
Dave Milbrandt is a writer in the Office of University Marketing and Creative Media.
A small, informal barbecue in 1986 featuring 50 Azusa Pacific students has evolved into the powerhouse event known as Night of Champions, an evening buzzing with activities and inspirational messages from world-class actors and athletes. Once again APU will host the outreach event March 16 welcoming thousands of students for the first time to the brand new Felix Event Center.
Local high school students are invited to enjoy food and activities culminating in a series of speakers intent on sharing the Gospel. There are two segments to the event: An outdoor program, and an indoor program on West Campus, which includes music, drama presentations, and speakers. On East Campus, participants enjoy festivities including playing games and competing in contests.
This year’s edition of speakers will feature ex-Seaver family member Kirk Cameron, fresh off the release of the highly anticipated film Left Behind. Detroit Lions cornerback Bryant Westbrook and surfing champion Joey Buran are also scheduled to give talks.
“It’s an event of inspiration and perspiration,” said Night of Champion founder and current APU Vice President for Student Life/Dean of Students Terry Franson, Ph.D. “Every year we have an opportunity to effect eternity through the testimonies of athletes, musicians, and others.”
Azusa Pacific head women’s track coach Mike Barnett took the mantle of NOC director from Franson last year and will once again head up the event. “I first got involved with Night of Champions as a speaker in the early ’90s,” said Barnett, a former Olympian who threw the javelin in the 1992 Games in Barcelona, Spain. “I enjoyed working with the kids so much that when the opportunity came to direct a program that would tell people about Jesus Christ, I was glad to do it.”
The outreach to local high school students has brought thousands to APU from across several states. In order to keep up with the large number of kids attending the event, Azusa Pacific students are encouraged to get involved. “We want the (APU) students to know that we just want them to show up and love those kids by interacting with them,” Barnett said.
The most important element of participation Azusa Pacific students can provide, however, is the power of prayer. “I want to remind everyone to continue praying for this event,” said Barnett. “We want to see all the kids who show up to the event come to know Jesus Christ as their personal Lord and Savior.”
Arjune [dancing] is blind and has trouble with the muscles in his legs,” said Karyn Fied ’03. “He loves to dance, sing, talk, and share with us. He is very smart and can recite the months of the year, ABCs, numbers, and days of the week. Sudip [at the piano] is very musical and enjoys playing the drums and small piano. He has a beautiful voice and a great memory for songs. He also has a great smile and loves to laugh.” Karyn has fallen in love with the children at Daya Dan, and is incredibly gifted at working with their unique needs, seeing and developing the strengths of each child.
John Skoby ’03 and Muna sat together on the front steps to Daya Dan. Muna is very mature, and plays the role of “Father of Daya Dan.” He knows all the children and their needs and is a big help. He speaks Hindi, Bengali, and English, and often translates for us. John has had a difficult time deciding where to devote his time, as he sees incredible needs everywhere. Here at Daya Dan the children flock to him as one of the few male volunteers. John doesn’t seem to mind the heat as much as the rest of us, and can continue playing with the children long after all others have taken a break.
Stephanie Cook ’04 spent time with Mongal. He requires constant individual attention due to his severe condition. Mongal is a precocious eight-year-old who lacks mobility of his entire body, with the exception of slight movement in his right arm. He cannot even hold his head up without assistance. However, he speaks English well and has an active imagination. One of his favorite things to do is sit in the car with Stephanie and pretend they are going on an adventure together. Stephanie’s huge heart is evident in everything she does.
“Working with the children at Daya Dan has taught me so much,” said Jenny Hobbs ’01. “Although they are each limited by their handicaps, it is amazing to see the joy they find through their perspective on life. Each day brings new adventures, even if it is something as simple as taking them on a walk down the street. Hearing the stories of the children has made me more determined to show them that they are loved. Talking to another volunteer, I learned that parents intentionally blinded some of these children in an attempt to bring in more money on the streets. Now they live at Daya Dan, they go to school, play, and are simply allowed to be children. Their smiles are beautiful and it is a privilege to care for them.”
Part Two: A glimpse at Kalighat, a home for the dying
Karyn Feid ’02 comforted one of the women of Kalighat. As is common with many of the patients there, she has no family outside of the home and is desperately in need of love and acceptance. We have found that most of the patients respond very well to the kind of special attention that we are able to offer. “I don’t know this woman’s name,” said Feid. “We only know that she is blinded by cataracts and is bedridden. But, I know she has a beautiful smile and a soft touch, as we sit an hold each other and rock on her bed. When I sing softly in her ear, I know I am singing to Jesus. Kalighat has a peaceful feeling and it’s a very fulfilling time when I spend a morning there!”
Jonathan Oliva ’02 quickly formed a tight bond with this man, whom he endearingly refers to as “Captain.” He has a difficult time communicating, but over the course of several days we were able to figure out that he was a captain of a small ship at some time in his life. It is the highlight of Jonathan’s day to spend time with Captain. Jonathan is particularly gifted with patience and gentleness as he moves from bed to bed providing physical therapy to each patient. He is sure to save Captain for last so that he can spend some quality time with him.
“At first I was afraid of Kalighat, but now I can’t think of being anywhere else,” said Carissa Raisbeck ’02. “Although the women there are fragile and slowly dying, they are the most beautiful women I’ve ever seen! In the midst of their pain they always manage to return my smiles. It’s hard to look at them and know they are in their finals stages of death. I am slowly beginning to understand Jesus’ deep and profound love. He loves them all so much, yet at the same time it must break his heart to watch them suffer. The women at Kalighat are just like you and I. We are all desperately in need of love and hope. God is definitely at work in Kalighat, and also in my heart.”
Jay Haddix ’02 has enjoyed working day after day with this particular patient, Mahesh Crondro. He had suffered from a rather severe stroke. Jay has spent significant time each day working his left side, and already he has seen incredible improvement! Through this relationship Jay has learned a lot about determination and perseverance.
“I met ‘Rose’ my first day at Kalighat,” said Lori Dunning ’02. “While walking past her cot I noticed her head buried in a damp pillow. I knelt down beside her, caressed her shaved head, and prayed over her. Rose turned her head toward me, grabbed my hand and began to talk about the miserable pain that she was in. I would respond in English as she spoke in Bengali. Despite the language barrier, there was a genuine understanding. Everyday after her lunch I massage Rose with oil as I sing her to sleep. It’s truly amazing to see the peace of God comforting and bringing joy to those in pain.”
“I’ve spent all of my time working at Kalighat,” said Zak Davis. “Everyday is hard and always holds new challenges. However, the work is extremely rewarding and fulfilling. My favorite tasks are doing laundry, working with the long term volunteers, and helping out the patients. In this picture I am feeding a boy who is probably about 12 years old. He does not speak any languages, and often refuses to be helped. He has large gashes on the back of his head and suffers from seizures as well. We don’t know his name. This boy’s condition is unusual due to his severe mental impairment, and it has been exciting to watch him get better. This trip is amazing. Calcutta is challenging, but I love it. This experience is teaching me how to love on a whole new level.”
“I would like to introduce you to Sabudi,” said Daren Bachman ’89, director of the Office of Chapel Programs. “I was so excited to see him again, for you see, Sabudi was one of the patients that I grew closest to last year. He was discharged for a short time, but within four months he was brought back with a severe case of Tuberculosis. Sabudi has no family. He cried when I walked in my first day, because he was so happy to see a familiar face. Out of the many visitors that come to see patients at Kalighat, Sabudi had never had anyone come to see him. For me, Sabudi represents the hope of survival and joy amidst so much hardship. Sabudi loves Jesus with all his heart, and because he speaks English so well we have enjoyed many a theological discussion. Pray that Sabudi would recover from TB and be able to go on with his life as a witness for Christ.”
“It is really profound to see how broken this man is physically, and also how broken I am spiritually,” said Oliva. “We are just two broken people meeting together. We are trying to understand each other and trying to get to know one another in spite of the emotional and worldwide gap that seems to exist between us. ‘It is all in our Father’s grace.’ (Eph. 1:4, 6)”
Part Three: Titagarh by Carissa Raisbeck ’02
On Wednesday we had the opportunity to go to Titagarh, a leper colony started by Mother Teresa. We took a train to get there because it is 30 to 40 minutes outside of Calcutta. The leprosarium was opened in 1958 and has grown immensely since then. The center is run entirely by the Brothers of Charity and by the lepers themselves.
In the clinic, the Brothers see approximately 1,000 patients per week, all of whom are suffering from leprosy. In the same facility, there is an operating room where amputations are performed. Most of the people at the clinic are from surrounding communities and live outside the center. However, there are approximately 100 patients living in the wards at the center.
The leper colony itself is an amazing place, full of joy and life! The incredible thing about Titagarh is that it is completely self-sufficient. All of the employees are former patients who now live at the center with their families. This gives them an opportunity to provide for their families. Their only other option is to beg on the streets, because jobs are simply not available for lepers.
Within the colony there are 10 main areas:
1. Artificial Limb Center: here the lepers make prosthetic limbs for those who have had amputations.
2. Footwear Center: here a cobbler makes special shoes to protect the lepers’ feet.
3. Carpentry Section: all the crutches and furniture come from this area.
4. Handloom Unit: this unit is lined with men and women spinning spools of thread and running handlooms. The lepers make all the sheets, diapers, clothes, etc. for all the homes for the Missionaries of Charity throughout the world.
5. Tailoring Unit: the children of the leprosy patients are taught the art of tailoring so they can earn a living.
6. Agriculture: here they grow all their own fruits and vegetables.
7. Animal Husbandry: they raise pigs to sell and maintain fishponds that provide fish for the patients.
8. School: the children of employees and residential patients are able to complete their primary education on-site, free of charge until 10 years of age. After this they go on to a boarding school.
9. Living Quarters: more than 200 families live at the center, in simple two room huts.
10. Men’s and Women’s Wards: the more severe patients live in special wards where they receive ongoing care.
As you can imagine, Titagarh is a large facility! All of the land was donated to Mother Teresa by the Indian government. It is amazing to see what they have done with this incredible resource.
As a team, we were able to sit with some of the patients while visiting the wards. I could not help but think about how each one of those men and women must long for human touch and affection. When I looked into their eyes I could see the fear of rejection. They lived in a society where their disease alienated them and they were considered “untouchable.” To them, we represented the outside society, and our unconditional acceptance of them made a huge impact.
One man told me that they were going to amputate his arm and leg. As he was talking, his voice quivered with fear and his eyes filled with tears. I think about how frightened he must have been, but it is good to know that he is in a place where he is well cared for, accepted, and loved. I was grateful for the opportunity to sit with him and restore some of the dignity that he felt he was losing.
In the women’s ward, we sang “Shout to the Lord” to the patients as we sat with them. It was incredible to experience the presence of the Lord in that place. I could see the tears well up in the eyes of the women, just to feel loved through a simple song and touch. Immediately I would see the fear of rejection disappear from their faces. I was filled with compassion as I held what were the hands of one woman and saw her reaction. I can not help but think of the story of Jesus touching the lepers, and now I better understand the significance of His touch and how He showed His love through His actions. I pray that God would use me as His hands and feet to touch those around me and communicate His love.
What struck me most about Titagarh is the joy and hope found in that place. I love that these lepers who were once outcasts and invisible in the eyes of others, now live in a thriving community where they are loved and accepted.
Peter Bond’s ’08 loves the sound of a basketball being bounced, dribbled, and shot into a hoop, almost as much as the sound of his three children running up to hug him. As a caring husband, loving father, skilled coach, and attentive mentor, Bond’s life is marked by selflessness. Bond puts his best foot forward in everything he does, exemplifying what it means to pursue God’s calling by doing what you love as Azusa Pacific University’s men’s basketball head coach.
As a Southern California native, Bond grew up well acquainted with APU. His church partnered with APU for a short term mission trip to Mexicali, Mexico, which Bond thoroughly enjoyed throughout his childhood. When deciding where to attend college, he knew he wanted to deepen his faith at a Christian university. “APU felt like home when I walked on campus, much more so than the other schools I visited,” he said.
Bond’s undergraduate years were incredibly fruitful. Basketball has always played a major role in his life, and getting to play on APU’s team throughout his four years offered Bond the opportunity to not only enhance his athletic skills, but shape his personal development. “Being part of a team cultivates values that are often counter-cultural. From learning how to manage time well, communicate with those you might disagree with, and look out for others, experiencing something bigger than myself was life changing,” he said. Bond made lasting friendships as a student, surrounded himself with mentors who made a difference in his commitment to Christ, and met his wife Erin ’10, who he has been married to for 13 years.
For Bond, his vocation has always been centered around selflessness. “Basketball for me has always been bigger than its personal impact. I like to be part of a winning culture, where we strive to win games, make a lasting legacy, and are focused on helping each other,” he said. He fondly remembers his former coaches, Bill Odell and Justin Leslie. “They made me the coach I am today.” Bond became a difference maker through his transformative experience learning from his coaches and teammates. “I aim to surround myself with people who hold themselves to a high standard. Being part of the APU basketball program has always taught me that you can make morally correct decisions and still win.” After graduating, Leslie offered Bond a volunteer assistant coaching job upon graduation, which launched Bond’s coaching career.
Bond continued working his way up positions as a coach, working part time from 2009-2012, full time as an assistant coach from 2012-2019, then becoming the head coach in 2019. When asked what he loves most about coaching APU’s men’s basketball team, Bond paused, sharing that the list is long. “The thing I love most comes down to how much I love this place, this basketball program, and getting to allow the men on the team to experience what I did as a student,” he said. Bond’s excitement is evident in the way he enthusiastically welcomes recruits to the team, creating an environment focused on making the most of these formative years in a college athlete’s life.
Coaching basketball at APU has allowed Bond to fulfill his calling. “First and foremost, I’m called to help lead people to Christ,” he said. “Second, APU’s done so much for me, and I hope to give back by being a small part of the players’ lives.” To Bond, his role entails more than leading the team to play their best. He makes a positive impact by mentoring the players as they think of their future.
“Someday the ball’s going to stop bouncing, but I want the players to know that there is so much to look forward to in life, like being a husband and father.”
Bond’s three children can often be found dribbling with APU’s basketball team and cheering at games. Caleb, age 9, Nolan, age 6, and Jake, age 3, look up to each player, inspired by their talents and kindness. Bond acknowledges how busy being a coach is, and often spends time away at games, so he incorporates his family any way he can, setting an example for the players of what it means to pursue your calling in all areas of life.
Through the challenges that naturally arise in a competitive space, Bond guides the team to remain focused on their goals, work hard toward increasing their athletic skills, and collaborate. Bond shared that the 2023-2024 season was a testament to the team’s commitment to persevering through difficult times. While the season started with more losses than they’d expected, the team finished the year as one of the best teams in the nation, winning the conference tournament championship, and landing a spot in the NCAA DII Sweet 16.
Watching the players graduate is always a bittersweet moment for Bond. While he is sad to no longer have the students on the team anymore, Bond is proud of the players for the maturity they’ve experienced throughout their four years. “Success to me looks like the players being prepared to move on to the next step in life,” he said. “The world needs what they have to offer.”
Bond inspires everyone he meets to do their best because of the way he fully dedicates himself to his job and family. By caring about each individual players’ spiritual, personal, and professional growth, he illustrates what it means to be a disciple of Christ. Bond is a testament to how one’s calling encapsulates more than your career, but the people who God has led you to continuously love as well.
Kelsey (Maher) Cruz ’17 steps into the shoes of various characters through her job as a voice actor. She’s worked on prominent anime shows such as One Piece, SpyxFamily, and Attack on Titan. “The best part is getting to portray different types of characters and exploring my own personality in each one,” she said. As a graduate of Azusa Pacific University’s acting for the stage and screen program (BFA), she implements her passion and faith in all she does.
Originally from Seattle, Cruz was always interested in acting, but she was not sure if it was truly her calling. After high school, Cruz went to community college, then transferred to a leadership college to pursue a career as a children’s pastor. “While working in children’s ministry I got to act out skits and I realized that acting is truly my vocation.”
Cruz heard about APU years before applying. “I saw a clip of a musical in the BFA program and my mind was blown. I love that it’s a Christian university which gives students a space to create spectacular performances,” she said. In 2014, Cruz hopped on a plane to Los Angeles to audition for the program. She was accepted and began her studies at APU that fall.
Cruz fondly recalls being a part of the ensemble in Spitfire Grill, her first show in APU’s Warehouse Theater. “Because of the more intimate setting, the audience’s participation made everyone feel enveloped inside the story being told.” Singing and acting in such a well produced show offered Cruz an experience she will never forget, especially since growing up she had always yearned to be a part of such vibrant performances.
Another experience that shaped Cruz was building a show with her cohort called #AllOfUsInWonderland. She and her classmates performed the show at Edinburgh’s Fringe Festival in Scotland. Cruz is grateful she got to fulfill the lighting designer role, teaching her core skills she now uses as a voice actor when using advanced equipment.
After graduating in 2017, Cruz remained in LA for three years. When doors kept closing in the film industry, she sought a new avenue. She began recording audiobooks, which was a tedious but enriching practice that led her where she is today. Taking classes at Real Voice LA, a sound studio, helped Cruz hone in her voice acting abilities.
During the pandemic, Cruz moved to Arizona to be with her family. At the time, she met her husband, Jordan, through an online voiceover community, and he encouraged her to audition for Crunchyroll, where he was working as a voice actor as well. The Dallas based studio specializes in recording English dubbing for Japanese animated shows.
In November 2023, Cruz got married, and moved to Texas, where the couple both live their dreams as voice actors at Crunchyroll and other animated games and films. Cruz has done English dubbing for more than 100 anime shows, stepping into the shoes of heroes, villains, and humorous sidekicks. Additionally, she has assumed the role of animated characters through freelance work at multiple studios. From talking elephants, to scientists, and magical creatures Cruz loves getting to discover new parts of her personality by portraying different characters.
When they’re not working, the couple spends time with their three cats (Nana, Sokka, and Momo). They also love traveling for anime conventions, where they get to meet fans and do signings, as well as discovering new restaurants to try.
While reflecting on her journey, Cruz hopes readers know how vital it is to share God’s gifts with the world by expressing your individuality. “Growing up I was extremely shy and quiet. I dreaded the thought of embarrassing myself, but I now realize that God wonderfully made me the unique person I am.” She has also learned that it’s okay to be quiet when you don’t have anything to say, adding that many are in need of a listening ear.
Cruz ultimately cultivates a love for God, others, and herself by pursuing her passion. “You’re doing the world a disservice when you hide God’s gift to you. He gave you this life, so live it expansively and as beautifully as you can.”
Samuel Girguis, PsyD, can easily get lost in a conversation while grabbing coffee in the breakroom. Whether he’s running into students in the halls or colleagues on their lunch break, Girguis’ warm smile and interest in others make his presence a positive force at Azusa Pacific University, where he teaches clinical psychology.
Born and raised in Downey, Calif., Girguis’ family instilled in him a love for serving the Lord. “My parents were immigrants from Egypt, and experienced persecution for being Christians. That’s why they came to the U.S., for religious freedom,” he said. Girguis reflected on the ways his parents’ culture influenced his value system, along with deepening his faith in God. “It wasn’t until college that I really embraced what it means to be Egyptian-American, understanding that God gifted me with these two cultures.”
Girguis’ interest in psychology stemmed from his early work in ministry. While at UC San Diego for his undergraduate degree, Girguis was heavily involved with Intervarsity Christian Fellowship (IVCF), an organization that ministers to students on non-religious campuses. After graduating, he worked for IVCF on the campus of San Diego State University. This work included taking students to serve alongside churches and community development groups in underserved communities during the summer. “I realized how many communities have little access to mental health services, and that led me into the field.” The more Girguis pondered his direction in life, the more he felt called to become a clinical psychologist.
At the start of his career, Girguis worked in the outpatient trauma treatment program at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA), counseling children and families who had been impacted by child abuse, foster care, community violence, and homelessness. “I was always blown away by how some people have endured so much suffering yet were able to hold on to love and hope. That’s when I learned that resilience and trauma go hand in hand.” Girguis attributes his vocation to his faith in God, because without it he doesn’t know how he would provide care to those walking through dark seasons. “God is a God of justice. Because of Him I have hope that people can have a beautiful future despite the hurt and brokenness they’ve experienced.”
In 2011, Girguis heard about APU through an alumnus working at CHLA. Girguis always had a passion for clinical supervision, and wanted to train others seeking to make a difference in psychology. He teaches students earning their Doctorate of Psychology (PsyD).
One of the primary reasons Girguis was drawn to APU was because of the diversity of the student body. From different faith backgrounds, to ethnically mixed cultures, Girguis enjoys hearing students’ perspectives and sharing his own, engaging in deep discussions.
Girguis acknowledges the responsibility psychologists have when leading others toward wellbeing, and he strives to challenge students to think deeply about their calling. When asked what he hopes students take away from his classes, Girguis offered a paradox. “On the one hand, it’s always up to the client to make a change in their life. We can’t fix someone,” he said. “At the same time, however, the simplest things we say have the potential to create a profound impact.”
By teaching students about the impact and purpose they have in the field of psychology, Girguis embraces what God has called him to do. He looks forward to teaching more students and delving into great conversations, exemplifying how vital connection is to making a difference.
Azusa Pacific University students find that their positive experiences with faculty members is part of what sets their college experience apart from others. Faculty’s dedication to helping their students grow in their respective fields and genuine care for their wellbeing was what influenced Boaz Goss ’13 to become a teacher.
Goss began his freshman year of college at a school in his home state of Texas, but realized that he wanted to go to a school that took a Christ centered approach to education. APU was at the top of the list of colleges his high school counselor recommended. After visiting college fairs to learn more about the university and attending a transfer student event, Goss fell in love with the campus and community. He transferred to APU during his second semester of freshman year.
Originally intending to study physics, Goss graduated as a philosophy major with a double minor in theology and humanities. “I care a lot about the big questions of life,” he said. “Growing up I liked theoretical physics because it related to questioning reality and the purpose of everything. Then I realized that the big ‘why’ questions of life that I cared so much about fell into the domain of philosophy and theology, so I shifted my studies.”
Goss said that his professors were his greatest supporters while at APU. “Rico Vitz had just come to APU when I began enrolling in my major related classes my junior year,” he said. “I took a lot of his classes because he was a great role model that cared deeply about his subject, and he became my mentor.” Goss said that professor Michael Robbins’ passion for reading and truly understanding the Bible was influential for him as well.
During his time at APU, Goss completed a Study Away program: the High Sierra Semester. Forty students and three professors spent time at Bass Lake near Yosemite reading great works of Greek philosophy, medieval theology, and the Bible. “Professor David Williams and the work we did on that trip helped shape me into who I am today.”
His philosophy and theology classes helped Goss to grow in his faith. “APU is where I made my faith my own,” he said.
Goss also recognized the expansive curriculum of works he read in class as a reason for his strong beliefs. “I love that APU didn’t limit us to reading just the greats of our own traditions, but challenged us to think about what we believe and make it our own which is invaluable,” he said. “Learning about our faith requires understanding what the greater conversation says, how to respond, and how to live in a way that is authentic.”
After graduating in 2013, Goss took a gap year to prepare for the Graduate Records Examination (GRE) and apply to graduate schools. He attended St. Louis University where he enrolled in a healthcare ethics and theology dual doctorate program, and he also earned a masters degree along the way.
Since then, Goss has had various teaching jobs, but after finishing his dissertation in January 2023, he was offered his current job as a teacher at Cassata Catholic High School, a private alternative Catholic school in Fort Worth, Texas. “I consider this job to be the start of my career,” he said. “This is the beginning of my life after academics. My professors at APU confirmed that teaching and scholarship were vocations that God calls you to do, and that it’s important to listen for that call. They worked hard for and alongside their students which showed me that you can do something important as an instructor.” While preparing for the current school year, a pastor came to his school and talked about Jesus being a teacher. “The pastor told us that we as teachers are some of the select few who can point to Christ and say He did our profession,” he said. “Teaching was an essential part of His ministry on earth, and I draw strength from the fact that in Scripture, even Jesus can seem taxed by the things demanded of him as a teacher. I also find solace and rest in that even Christ Himself continually embraced the calling to help people learn.”
Alternative schools specialize in serving populations that are at higher risk of not finishing high school. Over 75 percent of Goss’ students have a learning disability or a home life situation that would potentially keep them from getting their degree. “I keep APU’s ideals of Christ-centered service alive by not only working with students, but praying with them at the beginning and end of every class,” he said. “I’m teaching them what I know, and part of that is beginning with and seeing the classwork as prayer.”
Goss’ methods in the classroom have positively impacted his students which was made apparent when he was recently awarded Teacher of the Year in Fort Worth. Students and families nominate teachers for the award to then be voted on by community members, and Fort Worth Magazine talks to the principals of the highest voted candidates to narrow the list before compiling a new list of the top ten teachers who will receive the award. Goss was surprised to hear that he had won. “My first year teaching was both challenging and rewarding,” he said. “I’m humbled and honored by the award. I want to thank my students and community.”
Even after his students graduate, Goss hopes to be an influential part of their lives. “I would like to see my first class of high school graduates get their undergrad degrees,” he said. “As an alternative school, we serve a lot of populations that don’t go to college, but we’ve had a large number of recent graduates continue their education.” Goss’ school is also working on establishing an alumni network. He believes that school is not just a place to do homework, but somewhere that you grow as a person, and he would eventually love to see how much his students have grown. “APU is where I learned to study, but it’s also where I learned who I am, and I want my school to be like that,” Goss said. “I want my students to look back and say I did school work here, but I also learned about myself, I formed relationships, and school was a place where I saw God at work.”
Sarah Hernandez is a strong believer that God uses every experience as an opportunity to grow, learn, and lead you where you’re meant to be. Her life has been marked by the unexpected, and she has learned to persevere through challenges, helping others see the hope that is possible through Christ. As the student placement coordinator in Azusa Pacific University’s College of Education and Behavioral Sciences Hernandez creates a positive impact on students aiming to make a difference as educators.
Originally from Pico Rivera, Calif., Hernandez always wanted to become a teacher. She laughed, recollecting how as a child she assigned homework to her stuffed animals. After moving to a new city, Hernandez attended a public high school for the first time, having gone to private Christian schools prior. “That was when I knew I wanted to work in a faith based school,” she said.
Hernandez went to Orange Coast College, then transferred to Vanguard University, earning a bachelor’s degree in liberal arts along with her teaching credential. Her journey after graduating was not what she had envisioned, however, it was enriching nonetheless. After a one-year internship in children’s ministry at her church, Hernandez spent five years working for a nonprofit after school organization. “Nothing I learned in college felt like a waste, because I applied everything I was taught about making meaningful connections.”
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Hernandez wanted to explore different career options related to education in order to continue pursuing her calling. While she always thought her vocation was to be in the classroom, God led her to discovering fulfillment in guiding those on the path to becoming teachers. Hernandez heard about APU from a former supervisor who worked in the School of Education. She landed a part time role managing a grant, and in 2022, she became the student placement coordinator.
Hernandez’s position includes partnering with school districts surrounding multiple APU campuses to connect students with classrooms for their clinical practice requirement in order to earn teaching credentials. “I love what I do because I can resonate with how students feel throughout their process,” she said. While the pathway to becoming a teacher can feel challenging through such a rigorous process, Hernandez aims to share encouragement and hope. “Every obstacle they go through is one I overcame before, and I enjoy getting to assure them that there’s light at the end of the tunnel.”
The community at APU provides Hernandez with a deep sense of joy, as she lives out her calling in an environment that fosters spiritual growth. She greatly admires the diverse culture that APU has, and strives to uplift each student’s individual story and background. “My passion has always been centered around community. Getting to equip teachers to go into their classrooms to build togetherness creates change that I’m proud to be a part of,” she said. In addition to the students she feels blessed to work with, Hernandez appreciates her colleagues, who cultivate a supportive team.
In just one conversation with Hernandez, it is evident how authentic she is. When asked what she’d like readers to know about her story, she opened up about the mental health struggles she went through while in college. Hernandez faced many trials during her credential program, so she seeks to guide students by showing them that they are capable of pursuing their goals. She aims to connect students with the proper resources to get help when they’re undergoing challenges, especially by utilizing APU CARES. “Hardships are not ideal, but they’re okay. God has a plan for every hurdle, and He has a purpose for your life. ”
As a child, Tom Scott ’15, watched The Lord of the Rings trilogy through his mom’s fingers over his eyes. Mildly frightened, but more intrigued, Scott’s love for storytelling increased as the characters embarked on wild adventures and braved the unknown. Films like The Dark Knight and The Lion King further developed his interest in stories. Scott has now worked for companies like Netflix, Dreamworks, and Disney, and is currently working on a major animated film called David, inspired by the biblical story.
Born in Santa Cruz, Scott developed a love for film at eight-years-old, when his parents gave him a mini panasonic camera for Christmas. “My brother and I made a ton of short films together and I always loved capturing moments,” he said. Scott began working professionally as a videographer when he was 14-years-old, making videos at the summer camp his parents ran. He interacted with the kids, filmed their activities, and edited a video at the end of each week to show the campers. Later in life, when pondering his purpose for pursuing film, Scott thought back to the four summers he spent using film as a means to connect with others. “My parents instilled in me a desire to help others through whatever I do.”
After graduating from high school, Scott attended a bible college in Canada for a year. While he enjoyed delving into God’s word, Scott felt called to pursue his passion. When searching for schools, Scott was drawn to Azusa Pacific University’s Christian viewpoint and excellent cinematic arts program.
Scott was already certain about God’s calling for his life, and his experience at APU reinforced that. “I learned so much by having the ability to connect with classmates and professors who became close friends and mentors,” he said.
Looking back at his time at APU, Scott recalls building fruitful relationships, as well as walking through times that were challenging, but increased his faith. From working as a videographer in chapel, to meeting friends who Scott would build a film company with later, he fondly remembers deepening connections with God and others. His heart for service and using his talents to make a difference expanded.
A key moment for Scott was meeting Bob Goff, bestselling author of Love Does, at a friend’s film shoot. They discussed their interests in world issues, and when Scott heard about Goff’s connection with a nonprofit in Iraq, he immediately wanted to learn more. In 2017, Scott found himself working with a refugee initiative building homes, providing food, and helping with trauma care. He’s been back to Iraq two times since then, and has traveled to other war-torn countries, partnering with nonprofits to create videos to raise funds, as well as a documentary about refugee experiences.
After graduating from APU, Scott did freelance editing for a few years, working on music videos, weddings, promotional videos, and more. It was a beneficial time for Scott to refine his craft. Knowing few people in the film industry, Scott was determined to build connections and learn people’s stories. “I went on IMDb, found my top 100 films, searched for the films’ editors, and reached out to them on LinkedIn,” he said. Scott heard back from around 20 people, and met the editors of prominent films such as La La Land and Star Wars. “I got coffee with a lot of people I looked up to, simply asking them to share their story and any advice.”
Scott landed his first job in the industry when hearing about an opening at Netflix through a colorist he’d met. He edited trailers for major shows such as Stranger Things and The Crown. “Some of the other films I edited didn’t connect with me morally and ethically, so I quit,” he said. From there, Scott worked at Trailer Park, editing trailers for Incredibles 2 and Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse.
Still hoping to edit full-length films, Scott continued interviewing at large studios. After his seventh time being at DreamWorks Animation, he got a position as second assistant editor, where he helped edit TheBad Guys, Boss Baby 2, and Puss in Boots 2. “Then I got a call from Disney, and they said they were working on a spin-off show of Monsters Inc.,” he said. Scott felt like it was a full circle moment, as he recalled watching Monsters Inc. for his 10th birthday and loving it.
As his contract with Disney came to an end, Scott found himself at a crossroads. He heard about Sunrise Animation Studios’ crowdfunded film David. Intrigued, Scott emailed the director, asking if they were in need of an editor. The director emailed back in 3 hours and said that day they were just chatting about how they needed to find their editor. The company flew Scott out to South Africa to visit the studio, and he fell in love with the mission and message of the film.
Scott was faced with big decisions. He had job offers from Netflix, Warner Brothers, and Disney. Working on David was by far the riskiest choice. “I prayed about it. I had always asked to hear God’s voice. I audibly heard my name, and immediately knew what to do,” he said. Scott accepted the role as lead editor at Sunrise. Three weeks after saying yes, the film was fully funded.
Fulfilling his dream, Scott loves collaborating with filmmakers to tell a story they’re all passionate about. He is especially excited for viewers to see David. “For me, film is a medium where I can help others through stories,” he said. Working on a biblical film feels like the culmination of what Scott has worked toward. “Storytellers have an important ability to lift people’s spirits, and I hope the people who watch David are connected to something bigger than themselves.”
When asked what advice he’d give to those hoping to enter the film industry, Scott suggested reaching out to people on LinkedIn who are doing what you’d like to do. Additionally, he shared to be open minded to the ways creative ideas change over time. “Something I really learned after college was how to take constructive criticism well. It can be hard to pour so much of yourself into something that feels like it’s getting destroyed, but in the film industry, the first idea is just a starting point.”
By keeping God First, Scott continues to live out his passion for stories and editing films. He knows that whatever the future holds, God will be right there with him, leading him where he’s meant to be.
Oregonstate News Blog 