Colorado Christian Connection Fall 2013
Content
Fall 2013
CCU students congratulate each other in the quad after mid-terms.
We envision graduates who think critically and creatively, lead with high ethical and professional standards, embody the character and compassion of Jesus Christ, and who thereby are prepared to impact the world.
Dear Friends, As a partner of CCU, please don’t read these pages simply as highlights from the University. Read them as shared highlights. You’ve come alongside us in the journey—supporting us, praying for us, celebrating with us. Thank you! These highlights are made possible by your partnership. They are also a result of God’s continued providence and grace, and we glorify God for His gifts. Our undergraduate enrollment has reached over 1,100 students—the largest in the nearly 100 year history of CCU. Add to that our adult and graduate enrollment of over 4,000, and we’re educating well over 5,000 students right now. Currently, over 200 student-athletes are representing CCU on the court, field, or track. Our new Employment Management Services has placed over 330 students in paying jobs.And, CCU will award $11 million in scholarships this year. Our Western Conservative Summit saw nearly 2,000 attendees listen to dynamic speakers like Ted Cruz, Scott Walker, and Allen West. Elsewhere, 120 students and staff traveled the globe witnessing in the name of Jesus. And, perhaps most momentous of all, we’ve broken ground on the first academic building in our Lakewood Campus redevelopment. It will be ready for use next fall. Our Faith|Family|Freedom Campaign continues to stress the core values we hold dear. Thank you for your partnership. This next year will see the completion of Phase One of our Faith|Family|Freedom Campaign. We’ll award additional full-tuition World Changers Scholarships to some of the brightest high school students in the nation. And, our sports teams, our musical concerts and plays, our ministries will continue to always preach the good news of Christ, and use words when necessary. Sincerely,
Bill Armstrong
NOVEMBER November 13-16 Fall Play: Voices from Beyond the Veil Evening performances each day at 7:30 p.m., and a matinee on Saturday, Nov. 16, at 2:30 p.m. CCU Music Center 303-963-3333 to RSVP November 18 Centennial Institute Issue Monday: Green and Free: Can It Be? 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. CCU Beckman Center 303-963-3424 to RSVP
DECEMBER December 6 & 7 School of Music Presents: Wonder, a CCU Christmas Celebration 7:30 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. West Bowles Community Church 303-963-3333 to RSVP FEBRUARY February 6-8 Alumni and Family Weekend: Prayer Breakfast, Chapel, Campus Tour, Family Game Night, BBQ, and Basketball…and much more Lakewood Campus www.ccu.edu/ alumnifamilyweekend
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MARCH March 6-9 Spring Play: Meet Me in St. Louis Evening performances each day at 7:30 p.m., and a matinee on March 8 & 9 at 2:30 p.m. Lakewood Cultural Center 303-963-3333 to RSVP APRIL April 24 Values-Aligned Leadership Summit For more information call the Office of Development at 303-963-3330
Visit www.ccu.edu/events for more upcoming events.
FALL
Volume 5, Number 6
To add your name to the mail list and to receive other announcements about CCU alumni events or to update your contact information please go to www.ccu.edu/Alumni Colorado Christian Connection is a regular publication produced by Colorado Christian University to connect CCU alumni and friends to each other and to CCU. As we build each issue, we strive for complete accuracy, however, we occasionally miss the mark. Please inform us of our errors, and we will address them in the following issue. THIS PUBLICATION IS SPONSORED BY THE OFFICE OF DEVELOPMENT AND ALUMNI RELATIONS: Paul J. Eldridge, J.D. Vice President, Development and Alumni Relations David Nye Director of Development Dan Westermann Director of Development Missy Smith Director of Alumni & Parent Relations Emma Alsdorf Annual Giving, Foundation & Donor Relations Coordinator Kathleen LeCrone Database Specialist Jan Otteman Event Planner and Administrative Assistant THIS PUBLICATION IS PRODUCED BY UNIVERSITY COMMUNICATIONS: Lisa Zeller Director of University Communications Gabe Knipp Copywriter Bethany Applegate Graphic Designer Tim Roesch Graphic Designer Justin Jones Contributing Graphic Designer
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FAITH | FAMILY | FREEDOM
Academic Excellence - Leaders for the 21st Century
2013 SYMPOSIUM | REDEEMING THE TIME: Following Christ in a
Secular Era
WRITE DIRECTION:
The Story of Howard Propst
PRESIDENT’S CIRCLE 2013
PRODUCING GRACE
ALUMNI NEWS
A LETTER FROM ANNE KLASSEN
To view the webcam and get construction updates, visit ccu.edu/campaign/update |4|
“The steel,” explained Shannon Dreyfuss, “will go up in a matter of weeks. And even if you’re off campus, you’ll be able to watch. Our new construction camera takes an image every 30 seconds. We’ll have a nice time lapse video at the end to see every step of the construction.” At most CCU events, the audience is receptive. But at the last Strategic Objective Workshop, bringing all staff and faculty together for important talks and updates, there was a palpable sense of anticipation in the air. Everyone had seen the torrential rains in September that displaced thousands. They surely delayed construction. Already on a tight schedule, what would that mean for the construction timeline? Dreyfuss, both hands on the podium and leaning over it, knew the troubles better than anyone. The vice president has headed the construction project at CCU since the beginning—he had been looking at renderings and options for months before even submitting a zoning request to the city. The zoning was approved by the city council unanimously. Even after, however, permits had to be pulled, contractors scheduled; he had to move all the displaced staff and faculty to a temporary location while the new building rose—like a giant game of three-dimensional Tetris. And, it all had to happen over the summer, before students came back. Rain was just one more issue to overcome. Dreyfuss smiled at the staff and faculty, his colleagues. “I’m happy to say that we’ll still be on time with this project, and we’ll be into the building next May. Once the steel goes up,” he explained,“we put the roof on and get the electricians and plumbers and everyone else in there. We’ll be in the new academic building not in years, but in months.”
|5| Construction progress of the new academic building for the Faith | Family | Freedom Campaign
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So, Phase One of the Faith|Family|Freedom Campaign will be over in months—literally paving the way for subsequent phases of the Lakewood campus redevelopment. And, with only $3.3 million remaining to raise out of a total $18.775 for Phase One, the Campaign is on target. In fact, an anonymous donor also pledged a $1 million gift match for any gifts before January 1, 2014, which is simply another sign of God’s faithfulness to CCU. While the initial excitement of the construction wanes, it’s important to celebrate progress with each milestone and each new building in this multi-year, $120 million campaign. And we thank you, reader, for your support. Your gift will make a difference in the lives of thousands of students over the years. The next milestone, and the first academic building, will be done in less than a year. And in the meantime, there’s a webcam to keep an eye on things. - G. Knipp
2013 Symposium | Redeeming the Time:
Following Christ in a Secular Era
Overview of CCU’s annual symposium
This year’s symposium at CCU focused on how to follow Christ in the midst of a confusing and turbulent era. Over 1,000 students listened to speakers for two days, reflecting on what’s happening in the world and their place in it. The news is not overly positive, especially for people of faith. As a generation that’s often written about, statistics on millennials are profuse. Nearly one out of two thinks marriage is obsolete. Nearly 22 million of them have moved back in with their parents.
Sixty-five percent rarely or never attend worship services; around the same number don’t read the Bible. Even among those who consider Jesus as their savior, 70% don’t list faith as “really important in their lives.” The symposium at CCU is about reversing those trends. It’s about providing students an honest place to explore, to talk, to see who God is and where He is leading them—especially while so many are choosing not to listen.
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Esther Fleece, named by Christianity Today as one of the top 50 women shaping church and culture, exhorted students to seek after that which is good. She told of her own journey in following God, listening to his voice, and going after good things. The word, “good,” she said, is profoundly prevalent in the Bible and rarely discussed. And Roberta Ahmanson reminded everyone that Christians must be people who look to heaven, who are obsessed with what will be and how everything will be right, because it has profound implications for how we live our lives here and now. Students left the 2013 Symposium with fresh answers and new tools. They were encouraged to live out their faith in an increasingly secular world, using their gifts to further God’s kingdom. They
Associate Vice President of Academic Affairs, Dr. Chris Leland
were reminded to fix their eyes on Jesus, because doing so will change their lives both now and forever. - G. Knipp
Speakers such as David Perkins, who serves on staff at New Life Church in Colorado Springs, called students not just to know about Jesus, but to know Jesus. His winsome and humorous delivery inspired students to look at the Bible with fresh eyes. Or, Jim Weidmann, a popular author and speaker, talked about following God with your gifts. Part of his presentation included a survey to determine a student’s gifts in order to give him greater clarity and direction of where God might be calling. The question and answer session after Jim’s talk included students who wanted to know more about how their gifts fit with God’s kingdom work— and they took the next step in answering those questions.
Symposium speaker Roberta Ahmanson
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The story of Howard Propst
We’ve all experienced the “What Would Jesus Do” wave that coursed through Christian circles and caused believers to evaluate if their behaviors really were consistent with the actions and teachings of Christ. WWJD is an important reminder to live consistent lives that give witness to a true faith in Christ, but perhaps an even more fundamental question is,“Who is Jesus Christ and why has he had such a lasting impact on the world?” This is the question CCU supporter and dear friend of President Bill Armstrong, Howard Propst, and his daughter Lorre Propst McKeone, asked in their recently self-published book, The Impact of Jesus on the World. Together, they have attempted to explore how the remarkably unique life and teachings of Jesus Christ have impacted the lives of individuals and nations—zeroing in on a few of the teachings of Jesus and his impact on his followers, both historic and present day. Howard’s contributions to the work focus on personal stories of real people whose lives and beliefs embodied the core values of Christianity, while Lorre’s writings integrate a study of actual Biblical accounts of what Jesus said and how he behaved. Giving does not come naturally or easily to most BOOK EXCERPT: “For where your treasure is, there will your heart by also.” Matthew 6:21 Jesus did not begin his ministry as a respected rabbi or revered priest…Yet in his three short years of ministry he spoke to individuals, to crowds of more than 5,000 and carried on theological discussions with some of the most learned scholars of the day. The lessons he taught were in many ways contrary to worldly wisdom…getting to the heart of what was important.
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Write Direction:
In the story of the man with great wealth, Jesus confronted the man in his personal area of greatest need—his need to trust in God’s provision rather than earthly security. Jesus’ words seem to make no sense from the standpoint of being responsible or self-sufficient. But they were meant to test this man’s faith. God had freely given him life and prosperity, and Jesus was asking him to also be a giver—and not in a small way—but in a way that proved he understood the source of his wealth. As Howard relates, this lesson of freely giving and freely receiving was handed down to him through his mother’s example of selflessness. In a poem she shared with Howard on his wedding day, she reflected, “‘Give to the needy shelter and bread, For giving is living,’ the Angel said, ‘And must I be giving again and again?’ My selfish, peevish question rang. ‘No,’ said the Angel piercing through, ‘Just give until the Master stops giving to you.’ – Anonymous
human beings, and yet as Christ’s followers learn deeper and deeper levels of trust, they find themselves giving of their own talents, time, and treasures, even as Christ gave of Himself that others would have life and have it to the full (John 10:10). Howard Propst grew up as a rancher on the Bar Three Ranch. He was raised by his parents, Lewis and Grace Propst, who taught him the most important lessons of life—lessons of love, truth, hardwork, and faith in God. Lewis and Grace taught Howard and his siblings by example that integrity was not just a goal, but the essence of their lives.
revolutionary trends: the growth of knowledge, increase of communications, and rapid rates of change. The focus of this research project was to show that these increases which allow the opening and freeing of the mind correlate precisely with the spread of liberty. He named the program Success America and traveled around the country presenting the program on the speaking circuit. At this time, Bill Armstrong, who had achieved the political office of U.S. Senator, invited Howard to present the Success America program to Colorado’s
U.S. Senator Bill Armstrong and Howard Propst
Congressional Delegation in the U.S. Capitol. Following that presentation, Bill offered Howard a senior staff position in his Washington office. Howard served on staff with Bill for ten years from 1979-1989. Howard still recalls the close bonds and dedicated friendships that were formed among Bill’s staff and attributes those life-long relationships largely to Bill’s genuine care and concern for all of his staff. His appreciation of Bill Armstrong was due to the fact that Bill always conducted himself and his political office with “absolute integrity.” When looking back on the memories that the two shared, Howard remembered them as some of the best years of his life. - C. Kirchner
From this foundation, Howard realized the importance of spreading these values through the American political system. Howard entered politics in the Colorado General Assembly and also served three terms as a state representative from Logan County. At the same time that Howard was working in Colorado politics, Bill Armstrong was beginning to make a name for himself in the Colorado political sphere. The two first met when Howard was a Colorado State GOP Chairman and Bill was a new state legislator with, as Howard recalls, a “bright political future.” Shortly thereafter, Howard and his family began a research project that focused on the growth of three
promote colorado christian university to the next generation
- Share your own CCU experience with potential students. - Direct students to the CCU website. - Encourage them to attend an Information Session (adult students) or CCU Preview Days (traditional undergraduate students).
Visit ccu.edu/refer
Scan this QR code with your smart phone and go directly to the referral form online.
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Dr. James Dobson addresses the crowd
An air of excitement and decorum surrounded CCU on September 16, as supporters and friends of the university gathered for the annual President’s Circle Dinner. This year’s President’s Circle Dinner was
impact a rich and God-honoring community has on learning. Following the student speakers, President Armstrong gave an impassioned and exciting update on the university and the
highlighted by student testimonies, a university update from President Armstrong, and a powerful keynote speech by Dr. James Dobson, founder of Focus on the Family and FamilyTalk. Students from both the College of Undergraduate Studies and the College of Adult and Graduate Studies shared how ‘CCU Changes Lives’: emphasizing the importance of faith integrated into the classroom, how faculty and staff pour into the lives of students, and the
| 10 | Attendees sign a steel I-beam to be used in the first building of the Faith | Family | Freedom Campaign
Faith|Family|Freedom Campaign, including the announcement of a million dollar match challenge gift. The night ended with Dr. James Dobson speaking on the sanctity and value of life; something that concurs strongly with one of CCU’s strategic objectives, which stresses the importance of impacting our culture in support of “traditional family values, sanctity of life, compassion for the poor, Biblical view of human nature, limited government, personal freedom, free markets, natural law, original intent of the Constitution and Western civilization.” Each year, at the President’s Circle Dinner, we come together to celebrate friends and supporters of CCU, to hear from pioneering Christians in our culture, and to honor God for His faithfulness to CCU. - E. Alsdorf
CCU President Bill Armstrong presents Dr. Dobson with a gift CCU student Haley Littleton Vice President of Development Paul Eldridge
FREE, REAL-WORLD SEMINARS AND NETWORK-BUILDING FOR LEADERS IN BUSINESS, NON-PROFITS, AND CHURCHES
Join the Dean of the School of Business and Leadership, Dr. Gary Ewen, and Executive in Residence, Kevin Miller on the second Friday of each month.
Visit crossovernetwork.org for more information.
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Challenging, thought-provoking seminars begin at 6:45 am, followed by Q & A and networking opportunities.
GRACE
Hollywood is not a place known for its faith. It’s not a place to produce movies that tell stories with morals and redemption. It’s certainly not a place to produce movies where characters question if they’re really living for Jesus. was a Christian, and 10 months later she became my wife.” Unless, of course, you’re Russ Rice.Then, you make a deal with Lionsgate to distribute Grace, Unplugged, one of the biggest movie industry coups in years. Carina Bruning, daughter of Stan Bruning of KWBI radio, and granddaughter of Archie Yetter (of Yetter Hall on CCU’s campus), married Russ and they went, not into basketball, but into business. He owned a shoe repair store in Cherry Creek, and he and Carina began thinking about a family. She got pregnant; he became more married to his work than to his wife. “It was literally the night we had our first child when I told my wife I couldn’t do this anymore,” Russ says.“I was going to lose my marriage, lose everything. So, I called my competitor told him he could have the business. It was kind of stupid.” That ‘stupid’ thing to do ended up saving his family, though. Russ, Carina, and their new son moved to Michigan, where he landed a job with a candy fundraising company. It was an easy job to land— the owner of the company still talked about a kid
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PRODUCING
He wasn’t always into movies, though. In 1980, Russ Rice was a freshman at CCU’s legacy institution, Rockmont College, and he was interested in one thing: basketball. He spent his time training with Ralph Simpson of the Denver Nuggets, hoping to play abroad in Europe one day. And, although he was attending a Christian university, he admits he was playing a game there, too. “I wasn’t a Christian,” he recounts. “I knew what to say and what to do, and even believed I was. But I really wasn’t at all. I told the woman I was dating I
who set candy fundraising records years ago—a garrulous kid who could sell sawdust to a lumber mill. They remembered him from high school.So,Russ Rice started work and was quickly making six figures in the mid-1980s. In his off time, he kept playing basketball, and running some camps with former college star Greg Kelser. “It was all going great until I saw a group of guys doing a Bible study at a restaurant. They met every day from six to eight in the morning—it was serious— and they asked me to join. I knew I couldn’t just go for a week or a month; if I was going to do this, I would have to stick with it.” And it changed his life. “God radically transformed me,” Russ says. “He took a dead man and made me alive.” Russ left his six-figure job and moved back to southern California—where he grew up—with the intent of going to seminary. He also started his own fundraising company to support his family; when he realized he wasn’t called to be a pastor, he simply kept building his business. Only, he wanted to give kids more than candy to sell, so he began to produce short educational films—about people like Thomas Edison or the events like the gold rush. Over time, Warner Brothers wanted to advertise on their videos. “They thought our $30,000 videos were made for $200,000,” he says.“They were really impressed with the production value.” It was a matter of time—and God’s urging—before Russ, approached his friend Brad with a new idea. Brad Silverman had started out as an actor before he came to faith, and had been producing the videos with him. Russ said to his friend one day, “Brad, I think we should start a film company. I think we can do this.” Their first full-length movie was No Greater Love, the story of a broken marriage—and its restoration. Lionsgate agreed to distribute it, but the movie was slated for release in 2009. In the height of the recession, Lionsgate balked at putting the faithbased film in theaters. The straight-to-video movie became the number one grossing Christian film ever for Lionsgate. Following up on that success, Rice—and Silverman—went about producing the next unabashedly faith-based film. The result was
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Grace, Unplugged, about a young woman who leaves her church and her family to make it big in Los Angeles. Featuring AJ Michalka (Secretariat, Super 8), James Denton (Desperate Housewives), and Kevin Pollak (A Few Good Men), the movie has been praised for its superb acting and production value. It’s virtually assured of becoming Lionsgate’s number one grossing Christian film. Yet, the story around the movie is as captivating as the movie itself. They had to battle to keep the name Jesus Christ in the film—since it was used in a positive, rather than negative—light. Russ stresses that the film is not aimed at teens hoping to fulfill their dreams, despite some of the marketing. It’s aimed at people hoping to discover, or rediscover, their faith. Even the story itself is patterned after events in Rice’s life. His daughter ran away to pursue her dreams when she was 18, and really doesn’t have anything to do with the family. “It really is a family movie,” Rice says. “If you think about it, we’re all that prodigal. We’ve all rebelled. The tagline is ‘Nothing can stop a Father’s love,’ with an intentional double meaning.” “Every time I’m at a screening, I meet people who realized they are like Grace in the movie, running away, and have made the decision to come back. It’s a story with a purpose.” It’s a story only someone like Russ Rice could produce. And, it’s the only time you’ll hear the question, “Are you living for Jesus Christ?” in a Hollywood film. Until his next one, of course. - G. Knipp
GRACE unplugged
In theaters now. Watch the trailer here.
Dear Alumni and Parents,
What an exciting time at Colorado Christian University! Record number enrollment, our first new building is on the rise, a Parent Association is being developed and lots of fun and engaging Alumni events are in the works. I hope you will join
The Colorado Christian University Alumni Relations Office will be hitting the road this year and traveling to share news about the campus redevelopment plans and general CCU updates in the following cities:
us for Alumni and Family Weekend in February and at other events throughout the coming year. CCU is truly experiencing the blessings of the Lord!
I’m beginning my fifth year at CCU and I am more impressed each year with the faith, academic excellence, and desire to serve of those at CCU. The faculty and staff are so gifted, and striving all the more to fulfill the strategic objectives for our students. President Armstrong inspires us all to live lives of
Dallas Grand Junction San Diego St. Louis
...and maybe your city too
integrity and courage.
It is my goal to build continuing community for our alumni and parents; resources and support that enhance the student experience through a parents perspective, and to give our alumni a way to stay connected with the unique community that is created on our campuses. It is truly a blessing to serve
Alumni in these areas should keep their eye out for special e-mail and print communications about these regional alumni events.
you and CCU and to be a part of our university’s growth and development.
Warmest regards,
Missy Smith, M.A. Director of Alumni and Parent Relations
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ALUMNI & FAMILY WEEKEND
Make it a plan for the whole clan.
FEBRUARY 6-8, 2014
Bring the whole family for a weekend of fun. For more, visit ccu.edu/alumnifamilyweekend
Follow in the Footsteps of the Apostles
...explore the land, culture, and context of the Bible
CCU Professor Dr. Johann Kim will be hosting a tour of biblical Greece
May 20 - June 3, 2014
In partnership with the Zodhiates International New Testament Study Center Cost is $2,230 plus airfare. Registration must be completed by December 1.
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Don’t miss this chance of a lifetime! Contact David Bosworth, School of Theology, for details Phone: 303-325-3055 • Email: [email protected]
Alumni News
Scott LaPoint (’01) – Scott has recently accepted an internship position with Lakeview NeuroRehabilitation Center in Effingham, New Hampshire. The year-long position fulfills the internship requirement for the doctoral degree in clinical psychology at Regent University in Virginia Beach, VA, that Scott is currently pursuing. In this position he is the rehabilitation psychology intern, facilitating individual and group therapy and conducting neuropsychological evaluations. Congratulations and best of luck! Chuck Lawson (’72) – Chuck graduated from Western Bible College in 1972 and has recently accepted the positions of administrator of Plaza Heights Christian Academy and pastoral staff of Plaza Heights Baptist Church in Blue Springs, Missouri. May God bless you and your ministry, Chuck! Dr. James Howard (’86) – James graduated from Colorado Christian College in 1986. He has recently been hired as the new senior pastor at Dillon Community Church. Blessing to your family and Dillon Community Church!
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Deborah (Schug) Palmer (’03) and Eric Palmer (’04) – In July of 2012, Eric joined Centennial Middle School in Montrose as a sixth grade math teacher. Just shy of a year later, in May of 2013, Eric, Deborah, and their son Jeremiah (2) welcomed Jasper Timothy into their family. Congratulations! Leslie (Lazzeri) Evans (’07) and Gary Evans (’04) – After graduating, Gary and Leslie married and moved to Florida where Gary pursued his law degree at Florida International University. He is currently practicing as a public defender for the state of Florida. Leslie is currently working as a human resources and payroll manager at TEKsystems and will be sitting for her Professional Human Resources certification later this year. Daniel Seatvet (’06) – After graduating from CCU with a degree in business administration, Daniel completed his Master of Arts in Leadership from Denver Seminary in 2008. He then worked in nonprofit and for-profit scenarios, including being a partner for a start-up financial services recruiting firm. Daniel is continuing to work out his natural gifting as a business leader doing marketplace ministry as an account executive for New Horizons, the world’s largest IT training provider. Most recently, in April of 2013, Daniel married his wife Jana who is originally from Slovakia. Congratulations, Daniel and Jana! Jennifer (Smeltzer) Chase (‘95) – Jennifer and her husband Dan live happily in Colorado with their five sons Benjamin (16), Joshua (13), Jacob (8), Jettson (6), and Jonah (6). Jennifer has recently written a book entitled Adoption Reinvention which is now available online at Amazon. com. Jennifer would like to encourage anyone that is struggling in their adoption to check it out. Larissa Denton (’11) – Starting this fall, Larissa will be a graduate assistant for the Center for Information and Communication Sciences at Ball State University. During this time, she also plans to pursue her master’s degree. Best of luck, Larissa! Libby Bergstrom (’83) – Libby graduated from Rockmont College in 1983 with a degree in elementary education. She is now starting a new project with IDEAS (ideasworld.org) – Global Reach Library Services. In this project she is using her professional skills to help transformational education and community development projects around the world. Congratulations on such an exciting opportunity! Louellen (Hurst) Lowe (’07) and Timothy Lowe (’08) – Since graduating from CCU in 2007 and 2008, Tim and Louellen have had many exciting changes. They are currently living in Tyler, Texas, where Tim is completing a master’s degree in kinesiology and working as a research assistant in the Kinesiology Department. Tim is also working as a sports trainer at APEC Sports.This fall,Tim will begin teaching as an adjunct professor in the biomechanics lab at The University of Texas, and plans to apply to physical therapy school in 2014. Since graduation, Louellen has completed her master’s in international affairs at Texas A&M and is now the east Texas regional director for a senator. To add to the excitement, Tim and Louellen recently celebrated the arrival of their first child, Laurayne “Isabelle” Lowe on December 4, 2012! Congratulations, Tim and Louellen, and best of luck on the many new adventures awaiting you!
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Maggie Leitch (’06) – Maggie has recently relocated to the Boston suburbs and is celebrating the start to a new job with EverFi! Congratulations Maggie and best of luck in your new position!
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Western Bible Institute Established
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Denver Bible College Becomes Rockmont College
Ralph and Marianne Henning (’87) – This year has held many successes for Ralph and Marianne as Ralph has been promoted to colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve. Effective December 2013, Ralph has been selected to command the 411th Engineer Brigade in New Windsor, NY, and will assume command in March 2014. Thank you for your dedicated service to our country, Ralph! Norma (Kuhlers) Keaton (’73) – On July 7th, Norma’s husband David Keaton went to be with the Lord. After over a year of suffering with autoimmune liver disease, David was ushered home in the presence of his children and Norma who was able to remain by his side throughout his entire hospital stay. Norma and David’s oldest son, Lynn, has now taken over David’s ministry at Clear Lakes Christian Academy. Norma has been quick to notice that God has been with their family every step of the way and has blessed them abundantly. Our deepest condolences go out to you and your family, Norma, and we pray that you will continue to feel God’s presence with you through this time. Tammy (Vlahos) Dreiske (’00) and Mike Dreiske (’00) – Since graduating from CCU in 2000 with degrees in liberal arts and youth ministry, respectively, Tammy and Mike are now working at a one year Bible school and summer camp in Montana. To learn more about what Tammy and Mike are doing at Beartooth Mountain Christian Ranch, visit their website at www.bmcrministries.org! Michael Hopkins (’85) and Loretta Hopkins (’85) – Michael and Loretta, both alumni of Rockmont, are now serving as Assemblies of God missionaries in Rome, Italy, as lead pastors of International Christian Fellowship, where they have been serving since 1999. Before arriving in Rome, the Hopkins served as pastors for 25 years in the U.S. and are both ordained ministers in the Assemblies of God USA. Greg Freeman (’11) – Greg has accomplished a great feat by climbing his first 14er on August 17th! Greg successfully hiked Mt. Sherman with a group of nine friends from his Sunday School class. Congrats on a true Coloradan accomplishment! Rev. Thomas Bradley (’99) – Thomas received his MA in biblical counseling from CCU in 1999 and served as the director of pastor care at Cheyenne Regional Medical Center. In December of 2012, Thomas retired from this position and has moved to Spokane, WA, with his wife in order to be closer to their grandchildren. Thomas now serves as a volunteer chaplain with the Spokane County Sheriff’s Department, through which he ministers to the sheriff’s deputies and accompanies them for death notifications when someone passes away in an accident, shooting, or other cause. He also provides support to all first responders when they are in a critical incident. It’s such a blessing to hear how you’ve used your education and passions to serve the Lord! Keep up the good work, Thomas! Robert Rial (’80) – Robert and his wife Maria are still living and working in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. They are blessed to have found good Christian fellowship in Malaysia, and have witnessed how God manifests himself in different cultures and countries. Robert and Maria like to try to split their time between Malaysia, Colorado, and the Philippines. Although they miss Colorado and plan on making it back here some day, God is keeping them in Malaysia for now. Our prays are with you both and your ministry in Malaysia! What a wonderful example of following the Lord’s calling! Amy Justice (’10) – Amy received her BA in psychology from CCU in 2010 and is currently enrolled at Dallas Theological Seminary where she is pursuing her master’s of theology. In this time, Amy has noted how much she has drawn on what she learned at CCU through the professors and lessons. She would like to give a shout out to all of her professors from CCU and let them know that the love that they demonstrated is still sustaining her in seminary and has been a tremendous blessing. Thank you, Amy, for your kind words! Brian Yiech (‘96) – Brian graduated from the CISM program at CCU and is currently the director of recruitment at Resources Global Professionals, San Antonio office. Brian joined Resources Global Professionals in June of 2012, and his primary responsibility is maintaining and developing a diversified team of professional consultants available for client engagements. Prior to assuming this role, Brian served as Sr. Human Resources Administrator of Recruitment at the city of San Antonio. Brian is a 21 year US Air Force veteran, where he rounded out his military service assisting with the development and implementation of an online employee self service portal servicing US Air Force personnel.
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This section of the Colorado Christian Connection is designed to encourage alumni to stay connected. If you’ve had a recent change in your life (i.e., engagement, wedding, birth, new job, promotion, or something else exciting), we’d like to hear about it. Submit your news and photos to www.ccu.edu/alumni/share.asp
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1975
Western Bible Institute Becomes Western Bible College
1983
Colorado Baptist University Established
1985
Western Bible College and Rockmont College merge to form Colorado Christian College
1989 - Present
Colorado Christian College and Colorado Baptist University merge to form Colorado Christian University
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a letter from
Dear Friends, Helpers & Family,
The other day I fell asleep for the last time and my soul was escorted to Paradise by angels. Yes, there really are angels, and we were guided there by a bright light. It was a most fantastic trip and we were met at the Eastern Gate, at that beautiful entrance of the Promised Land. There was my husband Dan, my mom and dad, and Frieda, Rudy, my brother Pete and my sister Mary, my dear grandson Clayton, and all my friends and relatives that have gone on before. Dan had a brand new body. He picked me up and held me for the longest time and he told me that he missed me, and that he loved me. He said look at yourself, and I realized I had a new body. I was not blind anymore, I could hear everyone clearly. My skin was smooth; my arms and legs were strong; my back had no pain. Dan and I walked into Paradise hand in hand. Oh, what a day that was! We walked in and he introduced me to all the new friends he had.The angels gave me a robe and crown and they said Jesus was waiting for me. We went over to the Great White Throne; it was magnificent. And there was my Savior, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. At His feet was this huge pile of crowns and I took mine off and I put it on top of the pile. I didn’t know what I was going to do at that moment, whether I was going to dance for joy or be still and lay down in front of His feet. Then He said my name “Anne, I see your name here in the Lamb’s Book of Life. Well done, good and faithful servant.” He took my hand and then I saw the holes in His palms from the nails. We just walked for a while and He said, “I love you and I have been waiting for you. How do you like your new home?” My Savior said to me that I will never again feel pain, and I will never again have a bad day. Just imagine, I walked around
anne klassen
God’s Heaven with my Lord, sheltered safe in the hand of my Jesus. I looked down and I saw that the roads were actually paved with gold.
He told me there would be no more storms in my life, no more sorrow, no more sadness, no parting, no trouble, just peace in the valley for me and everyone here. Everything He has promised has come true. Everything He said He will do, He has done. I know you are at—well, what you call my funeral, but I would rather call it my graduation. Thank you to my three daughters for taking such great care of me when I was with you. I am so proud of you, Verna, Margaret, and Janet, and all my family. I am looking forward to seeing you again here in the Promised Land. Until we meet again. You are all always in my thoughts and prayers. It is well, it is well with my soul. God be with you ‘til we meet again. Mom, grandma & great grandma, sister & friend, Anne Klassen
Anne Klassen was the beloved mother of Verna Pauls, wife of CCU board of trustees member, Bill Pauls. Anne passed into the arms of Jesus in June of 2013. Verna Pauls’ brother, Gerry, penned this letter just after she passed away.
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Benefits of a CCU Charitable Gift Annuity.
1. ATTRACTIVE RATES. When you compare our gift annuity rates with what you might receive from a certificate of deposit you will be pleasantly surprised. (Rates average between 4%-9%)* 2. REGULAR PAYMENTS. When you establish your gift annuity, you decide how often you want to receive your payments (with certain restrictions) 3. FIXED INCOME. Your payment rate will be locked in at the time you obtain your gift annuity. 4. LIFETIME BENEFIT. Gift annuities are for life. And if you have a two-life gift annuity, when one person dies, the other can continue to receive the same amount for the rest of his/her life. 5. DEPENDABLE SOURCE, CCU reinsures all gift annuities, so your assets are protected with the backing of a top-rated insurance company. 6. RELIEF FROM TAXES. Since part of your contribution for a gift annuity is considered a charitable gift by the IRS, you will receive an income tax charitable deduction to apply on an itemized tax return. 7. SIMPLE PROCESS. We can provide you with a tailor-made illustration so you can see how it all works with your age and contribution amount included. Interested in enjoying these benefits? Are you at or near retirement age? Let us give you more information. Contact: Dan Westermann, Director of Development and Planned Giving Colorado Christian University 303-963-3330 *Rates will vary depending upon age and number of beneficiaries.
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Colorado Christian University
8787 W. Alameda Ave. Lakewood, CO 80226
ALUMNI SUCCESS
Degree: B.S. in Business Administration Class Year: 2008
Scan this QR code with your smart phone to go to: ccu.edu/successstories
Kari Osborne | Senior Treasury Advisor and Vice President for UMB Bank
Kari Osborne very clearly desires to serve the Lord, wherever she is placed. This desire is demonstrated in her academic and professional endeavors. In her role as senior treasury advisor and vice president for UMB, she seeks to provide banking solutions and supportive, authentic business relationships for non-profit and government sectors. “I strongly believe that this is where God has placed me, and I really want to steward that well—and steward the role and talents God has given me,” says Kari. After studying vocal performance at Southwest Baptist University and transferring to one of CCU’s heritage schools, Colorado Baptist University, life happened, and Kari never finished her undergraduate degree at that time. Later, she honed her communication and finance skills while studying in the College of Adult and Graduate Studies program at Colorado Christian University. “Part of going back to school and finishing my education was really about taking seriously the stewardship of my role at UMB.” In 2008, Kari graduated with her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with honors, and continues to bring integrity and competency to the finance world.
CCU students congratulate each other in the quad after mid-terms.
We envision graduates who think critically and creatively, lead with high ethical and professional standards, embody the character and compassion of Jesus Christ, and who thereby are prepared to impact the world.
Dear Friends, As a partner of CCU, please don’t read these pages simply as highlights from the University. Read them as shared highlights. You’ve come alongside us in the journey—supporting us, praying for us, celebrating with us. Thank you! These highlights are made possible by your partnership. They are also a result of God’s continued providence and grace, and we glorify God for His gifts. Our undergraduate enrollment has reached over 1,100 students—the largest in the nearly 100 year history of CCU. Add to that our adult and graduate enrollment of over 4,000, and we’re educating well over 5,000 students right now. Currently, over 200 student-athletes are representing CCU on the court, field, or track. Our new Employment Management Services has placed over 330 students in paying jobs.And, CCU will award $11 million in scholarships this year. Our Western Conservative Summit saw nearly 2,000 attendees listen to dynamic speakers like Ted Cruz, Scott Walker, and Allen West. Elsewhere, 120 students and staff traveled the globe witnessing in the name of Jesus. And, perhaps most momentous of all, we’ve broken ground on the first academic building in our Lakewood Campus redevelopment. It will be ready for use next fall. Our Faith|Family|Freedom Campaign continues to stress the core values we hold dear. Thank you for your partnership. This next year will see the completion of Phase One of our Faith|Family|Freedom Campaign. We’ll award additional full-tuition World Changers Scholarships to some of the brightest high school students in the nation. And, our sports teams, our musical concerts and plays, our ministries will continue to always preach the good news of Christ, and use words when necessary. Sincerely,
Bill Armstrong
NOVEMBER November 13-16 Fall Play: Voices from Beyond the Veil Evening performances each day at 7:30 p.m., and a matinee on Saturday, Nov. 16, at 2:30 p.m. CCU Music Center 303-963-3333 to RSVP November 18 Centennial Institute Issue Monday: Green and Free: Can It Be? 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. CCU Beckman Center 303-963-3424 to RSVP
DECEMBER December 6 & 7 School of Music Presents: Wonder, a CCU Christmas Celebration 7:30 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. West Bowles Community Church 303-963-3333 to RSVP FEBRUARY February 6-8 Alumni and Family Weekend: Prayer Breakfast, Chapel, Campus Tour, Family Game Night, BBQ, and Basketball…and much more Lakewood Campus www.ccu.edu/ alumnifamilyweekend
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MARCH March 6-9 Spring Play: Meet Me in St. Louis Evening performances each day at 7:30 p.m., and a matinee on March 8 & 9 at 2:30 p.m. Lakewood Cultural Center 303-963-3333 to RSVP APRIL April 24 Values-Aligned Leadership Summit For more information call the Office of Development at 303-963-3330
Visit www.ccu.edu/events for more upcoming events.
FALL
Volume 5, Number 6
To add your name to the mail list and to receive other announcements about CCU alumni events or to update your contact information please go to www.ccu.edu/Alumni Colorado Christian Connection is a regular publication produced by Colorado Christian University to connect CCU alumni and friends to each other and to CCU. As we build each issue, we strive for complete accuracy, however, we occasionally miss the mark. Please inform us of our errors, and we will address them in the following issue. THIS PUBLICATION IS SPONSORED BY THE OFFICE OF DEVELOPMENT AND ALUMNI RELATIONS: Paul J. Eldridge, J.D. Vice President, Development and Alumni Relations David Nye Director of Development Dan Westermann Director of Development Missy Smith Director of Alumni & Parent Relations Emma Alsdorf Annual Giving, Foundation & Donor Relations Coordinator Kathleen LeCrone Database Specialist Jan Otteman Event Planner and Administrative Assistant THIS PUBLICATION IS PRODUCED BY UNIVERSITY COMMUNICATIONS: Lisa Zeller Director of University Communications Gabe Knipp Copywriter Bethany Applegate Graphic Designer Tim Roesch Graphic Designer Justin Jones Contributing Graphic Designer
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4 6 8 10 12 16 18
FAITH | FAMILY | FREEDOM
Academic Excellence - Leaders for the 21st Century
2013 SYMPOSIUM | REDEEMING THE TIME: Following Christ in a
Secular Era
WRITE DIRECTION:
The Story of Howard Propst
PRESIDENT’S CIRCLE 2013
PRODUCING GRACE
ALUMNI NEWS
A LETTER FROM ANNE KLASSEN
To view the webcam and get construction updates, visit ccu.edu/campaign/update |4|
“The steel,” explained Shannon Dreyfuss, “will go up in a matter of weeks. And even if you’re off campus, you’ll be able to watch. Our new construction camera takes an image every 30 seconds. We’ll have a nice time lapse video at the end to see every step of the construction.” At most CCU events, the audience is receptive. But at the last Strategic Objective Workshop, bringing all staff and faculty together for important talks and updates, there was a palpable sense of anticipation in the air. Everyone had seen the torrential rains in September that displaced thousands. They surely delayed construction. Already on a tight schedule, what would that mean for the construction timeline? Dreyfuss, both hands on the podium and leaning over it, knew the troubles better than anyone. The vice president has headed the construction project at CCU since the beginning—he had been looking at renderings and options for months before even submitting a zoning request to the city. The zoning was approved by the city council unanimously. Even after, however, permits had to be pulled, contractors scheduled; he had to move all the displaced staff and faculty to a temporary location while the new building rose—like a giant game of three-dimensional Tetris. And, it all had to happen over the summer, before students came back. Rain was just one more issue to overcome. Dreyfuss smiled at the staff and faculty, his colleagues. “I’m happy to say that we’ll still be on time with this project, and we’ll be into the building next May. Once the steel goes up,” he explained,“we put the roof on and get the electricians and plumbers and everyone else in there. We’ll be in the new academic building not in years, but in months.”
|5| Construction progress of the new academic building for the Faith | Family | Freedom Campaign
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So, Phase One of the Faith|Family|Freedom Campaign will be over in months—literally paving the way for subsequent phases of the Lakewood campus redevelopment. And, with only $3.3 million remaining to raise out of a total $18.775 for Phase One, the Campaign is on target. In fact, an anonymous donor also pledged a $1 million gift match for any gifts before January 1, 2014, which is simply another sign of God’s faithfulness to CCU. While the initial excitement of the construction wanes, it’s important to celebrate progress with each milestone and each new building in this multi-year, $120 million campaign. And we thank you, reader, for your support. Your gift will make a difference in the lives of thousands of students over the years. The next milestone, and the first academic building, will be done in less than a year. And in the meantime, there’s a webcam to keep an eye on things. - G. Knipp
2013 Symposium | Redeeming the Time:
Following Christ in a Secular Era
Overview of CCU’s annual symposium
This year’s symposium at CCU focused on how to follow Christ in the midst of a confusing and turbulent era. Over 1,000 students listened to speakers for two days, reflecting on what’s happening in the world and their place in it. The news is not overly positive, especially for people of faith. As a generation that’s often written about, statistics on millennials are profuse. Nearly one out of two thinks marriage is obsolete. Nearly 22 million of them have moved back in with their parents.
Sixty-five percent rarely or never attend worship services; around the same number don’t read the Bible. Even among those who consider Jesus as their savior, 70% don’t list faith as “really important in their lives.” The symposium at CCU is about reversing those trends. It’s about providing students an honest place to explore, to talk, to see who God is and where He is leading them—especially while so many are choosing not to listen.
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Esther Fleece, named by Christianity Today as one of the top 50 women shaping church and culture, exhorted students to seek after that which is good. She told of her own journey in following God, listening to his voice, and going after good things. The word, “good,” she said, is profoundly prevalent in the Bible and rarely discussed. And Roberta Ahmanson reminded everyone that Christians must be people who look to heaven, who are obsessed with what will be and how everything will be right, because it has profound implications for how we live our lives here and now. Students left the 2013 Symposium with fresh answers and new tools. They were encouraged to live out their faith in an increasingly secular world, using their gifts to further God’s kingdom. They
Associate Vice President of Academic Affairs, Dr. Chris Leland
were reminded to fix their eyes on Jesus, because doing so will change their lives both now and forever. - G. Knipp
Speakers such as David Perkins, who serves on staff at New Life Church in Colorado Springs, called students not just to know about Jesus, but to know Jesus. His winsome and humorous delivery inspired students to look at the Bible with fresh eyes. Or, Jim Weidmann, a popular author and speaker, talked about following God with your gifts. Part of his presentation included a survey to determine a student’s gifts in order to give him greater clarity and direction of where God might be calling. The question and answer session after Jim’s talk included students who wanted to know more about how their gifts fit with God’s kingdom work— and they took the next step in answering those questions.
Symposium speaker Roberta Ahmanson
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The story of Howard Propst
We’ve all experienced the “What Would Jesus Do” wave that coursed through Christian circles and caused believers to evaluate if their behaviors really were consistent with the actions and teachings of Christ. WWJD is an important reminder to live consistent lives that give witness to a true faith in Christ, but perhaps an even more fundamental question is,“Who is Jesus Christ and why has he had such a lasting impact on the world?” This is the question CCU supporter and dear friend of President Bill Armstrong, Howard Propst, and his daughter Lorre Propst McKeone, asked in their recently self-published book, The Impact of Jesus on the World. Together, they have attempted to explore how the remarkably unique life and teachings of Jesus Christ have impacted the lives of individuals and nations—zeroing in on a few of the teachings of Jesus and his impact on his followers, both historic and present day. Howard’s contributions to the work focus on personal stories of real people whose lives and beliefs embodied the core values of Christianity, while Lorre’s writings integrate a study of actual Biblical accounts of what Jesus said and how he behaved. Giving does not come naturally or easily to most BOOK EXCERPT: “For where your treasure is, there will your heart by also.” Matthew 6:21 Jesus did not begin his ministry as a respected rabbi or revered priest…Yet in his three short years of ministry he spoke to individuals, to crowds of more than 5,000 and carried on theological discussions with some of the most learned scholars of the day. The lessons he taught were in many ways contrary to worldly wisdom…getting to the heart of what was important.
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Write Direction:
In the story of the man with great wealth, Jesus confronted the man in his personal area of greatest need—his need to trust in God’s provision rather than earthly security. Jesus’ words seem to make no sense from the standpoint of being responsible or self-sufficient. But they were meant to test this man’s faith. God had freely given him life and prosperity, and Jesus was asking him to also be a giver—and not in a small way—but in a way that proved he understood the source of his wealth. As Howard relates, this lesson of freely giving and freely receiving was handed down to him through his mother’s example of selflessness. In a poem she shared with Howard on his wedding day, she reflected, “‘Give to the needy shelter and bread, For giving is living,’ the Angel said, ‘And must I be giving again and again?’ My selfish, peevish question rang. ‘No,’ said the Angel piercing through, ‘Just give until the Master stops giving to you.’ – Anonymous
human beings, and yet as Christ’s followers learn deeper and deeper levels of trust, they find themselves giving of their own talents, time, and treasures, even as Christ gave of Himself that others would have life and have it to the full (John 10:10). Howard Propst grew up as a rancher on the Bar Three Ranch. He was raised by his parents, Lewis and Grace Propst, who taught him the most important lessons of life—lessons of love, truth, hardwork, and faith in God. Lewis and Grace taught Howard and his siblings by example that integrity was not just a goal, but the essence of their lives.
revolutionary trends: the growth of knowledge, increase of communications, and rapid rates of change. The focus of this research project was to show that these increases which allow the opening and freeing of the mind correlate precisely with the spread of liberty. He named the program Success America and traveled around the country presenting the program on the speaking circuit. At this time, Bill Armstrong, who had achieved the political office of U.S. Senator, invited Howard to present the Success America program to Colorado’s
U.S. Senator Bill Armstrong and Howard Propst
Congressional Delegation in the U.S. Capitol. Following that presentation, Bill offered Howard a senior staff position in his Washington office. Howard served on staff with Bill for ten years from 1979-1989. Howard still recalls the close bonds and dedicated friendships that were formed among Bill’s staff and attributes those life-long relationships largely to Bill’s genuine care and concern for all of his staff. His appreciation of Bill Armstrong was due to the fact that Bill always conducted himself and his political office with “absolute integrity.” When looking back on the memories that the two shared, Howard remembered them as some of the best years of his life. - C. Kirchner
From this foundation, Howard realized the importance of spreading these values through the American political system. Howard entered politics in the Colorado General Assembly and also served three terms as a state representative from Logan County. At the same time that Howard was working in Colorado politics, Bill Armstrong was beginning to make a name for himself in the Colorado political sphere. The two first met when Howard was a Colorado State GOP Chairman and Bill was a new state legislator with, as Howard recalls, a “bright political future.” Shortly thereafter, Howard and his family began a research project that focused on the growth of three
promote colorado christian university to the next generation
- Share your own CCU experience with potential students. - Direct students to the CCU website. - Encourage them to attend an Information Session (adult students) or CCU Preview Days (traditional undergraduate students).
Visit ccu.edu/refer
Scan this QR code with your smart phone and go directly to the referral form online.
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Dr. James Dobson addresses the crowd
An air of excitement and decorum surrounded CCU on September 16, as supporters and friends of the university gathered for the annual President’s Circle Dinner. This year’s President’s Circle Dinner was
impact a rich and God-honoring community has on learning. Following the student speakers, President Armstrong gave an impassioned and exciting update on the university and the
highlighted by student testimonies, a university update from President Armstrong, and a powerful keynote speech by Dr. James Dobson, founder of Focus on the Family and FamilyTalk. Students from both the College of Undergraduate Studies and the College of Adult and Graduate Studies shared how ‘CCU Changes Lives’: emphasizing the importance of faith integrated into the classroom, how faculty and staff pour into the lives of students, and the
| 10 | Attendees sign a steel I-beam to be used in the first building of the Faith | Family | Freedom Campaign
Faith|Family|Freedom Campaign, including the announcement of a million dollar match challenge gift. The night ended with Dr. James Dobson speaking on the sanctity and value of life; something that concurs strongly with one of CCU’s strategic objectives, which stresses the importance of impacting our culture in support of “traditional family values, sanctity of life, compassion for the poor, Biblical view of human nature, limited government, personal freedom, free markets, natural law, original intent of the Constitution and Western civilization.” Each year, at the President’s Circle Dinner, we come together to celebrate friends and supporters of CCU, to hear from pioneering Christians in our culture, and to honor God for His faithfulness to CCU. - E. Alsdorf
CCU President Bill Armstrong presents Dr. Dobson with a gift CCU student Haley Littleton Vice President of Development Paul Eldridge
FREE, REAL-WORLD SEMINARS AND NETWORK-BUILDING FOR LEADERS IN BUSINESS, NON-PROFITS, AND CHURCHES
Join the Dean of the School of Business and Leadership, Dr. Gary Ewen, and Executive in Residence, Kevin Miller on the second Friday of each month.
Visit crossovernetwork.org for more information.
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Challenging, thought-provoking seminars begin at 6:45 am, followed by Q & A and networking opportunities.
GRACE
Hollywood is not a place known for its faith. It’s not a place to produce movies that tell stories with morals and redemption. It’s certainly not a place to produce movies where characters question if they’re really living for Jesus. was a Christian, and 10 months later she became my wife.” Unless, of course, you’re Russ Rice.Then, you make a deal with Lionsgate to distribute Grace, Unplugged, one of the biggest movie industry coups in years. Carina Bruning, daughter of Stan Bruning of KWBI radio, and granddaughter of Archie Yetter (of Yetter Hall on CCU’s campus), married Russ and they went, not into basketball, but into business. He owned a shoe repair store in Cherry Creek, and he and Carina began thinking about a family. She got pregnant; he became more married to his work than to his wife. “It was literally the night we had our first child when I told my wife I couldn’t do this anymore,” Russ says.“I was going to lose my marriage, lose everything. So, I called my competitor told him he could have the business. It was kind of stupid.” That ‘stupid’ thing to do ended up saving his family, though. Russ, Carina, and their new son moved to Michigan, where he landed a job with a candy fundraising company. It was an easy job to land— the owner of the company still talked about a kid
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PRODUCING
He wasn’t always into movies, though. In 1980, Russ Rice was a freshman at CCU’s legacy institution, Rockmont College, and he was interested in one thing: basketball. He spent his time training with Ralph Simpson of the Denver Nuggets, hoping to play abroad in Europe one day. And, although he was attending a Christian university, he admits he was playing a game there, too. “I wasn’t a Christian,” he recounts. “I knew what to say and what to do, and even believed I was. But I really wasn’t at all. I told the woman I was dating I
who set candy fundraising records years ago—a garrulous kid who could sell sawdust to a lumber mill. They remembered him from high school.So,Russ Rice started work and was quickly making six figures in the mid-1980s. In his off time, he kept playing basketball, and running some camps with former college star Greg Kelser. “It was all going great until I saw a group of guys doing a Bible study at a restaurant. They met every day from six to eight in the morning—it was serious— and they asked me to join. I knew I couldn’t just go for a week or a month; if I was going to do this, I would have to stick with it.” And it changed his life. “God radically transformed me,” Russ says. “He took a dead man and made me alive.” Russ left his six-figure job and moved back to southern California—where he grew up—with the intent of going to seminary. He also started his own fundraising company to support his family; when he realized he wasn’t called to be a pastor, he simply kept building his business. Only, he wanted to give kids more than candy to sell, so he began to produce short educational films—about people like Thomas Edison or the events like the gold rush. Over time, Warner Brothers wanted to advertise on their videos. “They thought our $30,000 videos were made for $200,000,” he says.“They were really impressed with the production value.” It was a matter of time—and God’s urging—before Russ, approached his friend Brad with a new idea. Brad Silverman had started out as an actor before he came to faith, and had been producing the videos with him. Russ said to his friend one day, “Brad, I think we should start a film company. I think we can do this.” Their first full-length movie was No Greater Love, the story of a broken marriage—and its restoration. Lionsgate agreed to distribute it, but the movie was slated for release in 2009. In the height of the recession, Lionsgate balked at putting the faithbased film in theaters. The straight-to-video movie became the number one grossing Christian film ever for Lionsgate. Following up on that success, Rice—and Silverman—went about producing the next unabashedly faith-based film. The result was
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Grace, Unplugged, about a young woman who leaves her church and her family to make it big in Los Angeles. Featuring AJ Michalka (Secretariat, Super 8), James Denton (Desperate Housewives), and Kevin Pollak (A Few Good Men), the movie has been praised for its superb acting and production value. It’s virtually assured of becoming Lionsgate’s number one grossing Christian film. Yet, the story around the movie is as captivating as the movie itself. They had to battle to keep the name Jesus Christ in the film—since it was used in a positive, rather than negative—light. Russ stresses that the film is not aimed at teens hoping to fulfill their dreams, despite some of the marketing. It’s aimed at people hoping to discover, or rediscover, their faith. Even the story itself is patterned after events in Rice’s life. His daughter ran away to pursue her dreams when she was 18, and really doesn’t have anything to do with the family. “It really is a family movie,” Rice says. “If you think about it, we’re all that prodigal. We’ve all rebelled. The tagline is ‘Nothing can stop a Father’s love,’ with an intentional double meaning.” “Every time I’m at a screening, I meet people who realized they are like Grace in the movie, running away, and have made the decision to come back. It’s a story with a purpose.” It’s a story only someone like Russ Rice could produce. And, it’s the only time you’ll hear the question, “Are you living for Jesus Christ?” in a Hollywood film. Until his next one, of course. - G. Knipp
GRACE unplugged
In theaters now. Watch the trailer here.
Dear Alumni and Parents,
What an exciting time at Colorado Christian University! Record number enrollment, our first new building is on the rise, a Parent Association is being developed and lots of fun and engaging Alumni events are in the works. I hope you will join
The Colorado Christian University Alumni Relations Office will be hitting the road this year and traveling to share news about the campus redevelopment plans and general CCU updates in the following cities:
us for Alumni and Family Weekend in February and at other events throughout the coming year. CCU is truly experiencing the blessings of the Lord!
I’m beginning my fifth year at CCU and I am more impressed each year with the faith, academic excellence, and desire to serve of those at CCU. The faculty and staff are so gifted, and striving all the more to fulfill the strategic objectives for our students. President Armstrong inspires us all to live lives of
Dallas Grand Junction San Diego St. Louis
...and maybe your city too
integrity and courage.
It is my goal to build continuing community for our alumni and parents; resources and support that enhance the student experience through a parents perspective, and to give our alumni a way to stay connected with the unique community that is created on our campuses. It is truly a blessing to serve
Alumni in these areas should keep their eye out for special e-mail and print communications about these regional alumni events.
you and CCU and to be a part of our university’s growth and development.
Warmest regards,
Missy Smith, M.A. Director of Alumni and Parent Relations
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ALUMNI & FAMILY WEEKEND
Make it a plan for the whole clan.
FEBRUARY 6-8, 2014
Bring the whole family for a weekend of fun. For more, visit ccu.edu/alumnifamilyweekend
Follow in the Footsteps of the Apostles
...explore the land, culture, and context of the Bible
CCU Professor Dr. Johann Kim will be hosting a tour of biblical Greece
May 20 - June 3, 2014
In partnership with the Zodhiates International New Testament Study Center Cost is $2,230 plus airfare. Registration must be completed by December 1.
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Don’t miss this chance of a lifetime! Contact David Bosworth, School of Theology, for details Phone: 303-325-3055 • Email: [email protected]
Alumni News
Scott LaPoint (’01) – Scott has recently accepted an internship position with Lakeview NeuroRehabilitation Center in Effingham, New Hampshire. The year-long position fulfills the internship requirement for the doctoral degree in clinical psychology at Regent University in Virginia Beach, VA, that Scott is currently pursuing. In this position he is the rehabilitation psychology intern, facilitating individual and group therapy and conducting neuropsychological evaluations. Congratulations and best of luck! Chuck Lawson (’72) – Chuck graduated from Western Bible College in 1972 and has recently accepted the positions of administrator of Plaza Heights Christian Academy and pastoral staff of Plaza Heights Baptist Church in Blue Springs, Missouri. May God bless you and your ministry, Chuck! Dr. James Howard (’86) – James graduated from Colorado Christian College in 1986. He has recently been hired as the new senior pastor at Dillon Community Church. Blessing to your family and Dillon Community Church!
Evans
Deborah (Schug) Palmer (’03) and Eric Palmer (’04) – In July of 2012, Eric joined Centennial Middle School in Montrose as a sixth grade math teacher. Just shy of a year later, in May of 2013, Eric, Deborah, and their son Jeremiah (2) welcomed Jasper Timothy into their family. Congratulations! Leslie (Lazzeri) Evans (’07) and Gary Evans (’04) – After graduating, Gary and Leslie married and moved to Florida where Gary pursued his law degree at Florida International University. He is currently practicing as a public defender for the state of Florida. Leslie is currently working as a human resources and payroll manager at TEKsystems and will be sitting for her Professional Human Resources certification later this year. Daniel Seatvet (’06) – After graduating from CCU with a degree in business administration, Daniel completed his Master of Arts in Leadership from Denver Seminary in 2008. He then worked in nonprofit and for-profit scenarios, including being a partner for a start-up financial services recruiting firm. Daniel is continuing to work out his natural gifting as a business leader doing marketplace ministry as an account executive for New Horizons, the world’s largest IT training provider. Most recently, in April of 2013, Daniel married his wife Jana who is originally from Slovakia. Congratulations, Daniel and Jana! Jennifer (Smeltzer) Chase (‘95) – Jennifer and her husband Dan live happily in Colorado with their five sons Benjamin (16), Joshua (13), Jacob (8), Jettson (6), and Jonah (6). Jennifer has recently written a book entitled Adoption Reinvention which is now available online at Amazon. com. Jennifer would like to encourage anyone that is struggling in their adoption to check it out. Larissa Denton (’11) – Starting this fall, Larissa will be a graduate assistant for the Center for Information and Communication Sciences at Ball State University. During this time, she also plans to pursue her master’s degree. Best of luck, Larissa! Libby Bergstrom (’83) – Libby graduated from Rockmont College in 1983 with a degree in elementary education. She is now starting a new project with IDEAS (ideasworld.org) – Global Reach Library Services. In this project she is using her professional skills to help transformational education and community development projects around the world. Congratulations on such an exciting opportunity! Louellen (Hurst) Lowe (’07) and Timothy Lowe (’08) – Since graduating from CCU in 2007 and 2008, Tim and Louellen have had many exciting changes. They are currently living in Tyler, Texas, where Tim is completing a master’s degree in kinesiology and working as a research assistant in the Kinesiology Department. Tim is also working as a sports trainer at APEC Sports.This fall,Tim will begin teaching as an adjunct professor in the biomechanics lab at The University of Texas, and plans to apply to physical therapy school in 2014. Since graduation, Louellen has completed her master’s in international affairs at Texas A&M and is now the east Texas regional director for a senator. To add to the excitement, Tim and Louellen recently celebrated the arrival of their first child, Laurayne “Isabelle” Lowe on December 4, 2012! Congratulations, Tim and Louellen, and best of luck on the many new adventures awaiting you!
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Maggie Leitch (’06) – Maggie has recently relocated to the Boston suburbs and is celebrating the start to a new job with EverFi! Congratulations Maggie and best of luck in your new position!
1914
Denver Bible Institute Established
1945
Denver Bible Institute Becomes Denver Bible College | 16 |
1948
Western Bible Institute Established
1949
Denver Bible College Becomes Rockmont College
Ralph and Marianne Henning (’87) – This year has held many successes for Ralph and Marianne as Ralph has been promoted to colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve. Effective December 2013, Ralph has been selected to command the 411th Engineer Brigade in New Windsor, NY, and will assume command in March 2014. Thank you for your dedicated service to our country, Ralph! Norma (Kuhlers) Keaton (’73) – On July 7th, Norma’s husband David Keaton went to be with the Lord. After over a year of suffering with autoimmune liver disease, David was ushered home in the presence of his children and Norma who was able to remain by his side throughout his entire hospital stay. Norma and David’s oldest son, Lynn, has now taken over David’s ministry at Clear Lakes Christian Academy. Norma has been quick to notice that God has been with their family every step of the way and has blessed them abundantly. Our deepest condolences go out to you and your family, Norma, and we pray that you will continue to feel God’s presence with you through this time. Tammy (Vlahos) Dreiske (’00) and Mike Dreiske (’00) – Since graduating from CCU in 2000 with degrees in liberal arts and youth ministry, respectively, Tammy and Mike are now working at a one year Bible school and summer camp in Montana. To learn more about what Tammy and Mike are doing at Beartooth Mountain Christian Ranch, visit their website at www.bmcrministries.org! Michael Hopkins (’85) and Loretta Hopkins (’85) – Michael and Loretta, both alumni of Rockmont, are now serving as Assemblies of God missionaries in Rome, Italy, as lead pastors of International Christian Fellowship, where they have been serving since 1999. Before arriving in Rome, the Hopkins served as pastors for 25 years in the U.S. and are both ordained ministers in the Assemblies of God USA. Greg Freeman (’11) – Greg has accomplished a great feat by climbing his first 14er on August 17th! Greg successfully hiked Mt. Sherman with a group of nine friends from his Sunday School class. Congrats on a true Coloradan accomplishment! Rev. Thomas Bradley (’99) – Thomas received his MA in biblical counseling from CCU in 1999 and served as the director of pastor care at Cheyenne Regional Medical Center. In December of 2012, Thomas retired from this position and has moved to Spokane, WA, with his wife in order to be closer to their grandchildren. Thomas now serves as a volunteer chaplain with the Spokane County Sheriff’s Department, through which he ministers to the sheriff’s deputies and accompanies them for death notifications when someone passes away in an accident, shooting, or other cause. He also provides support to all first responders when they are in a critical incident. It’s such a blessing to hear how you’ve used your education and passions to serve the Lord! Keep up the good work, Thomas! Robert Rial (’80) – Robert and his wife Maria are still living and working in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. They are blessed to have found good Christian fellowship in Malaysia, and have witnessed how God manifests himself in different cultures and countries. Robert and Maria like to try to split their time between Malaysia, Colorado, and the Philippines. Although they miss Colorado and plan on making it back here some day, God is keeping them in Malaysia for now. Our prays are with you both and your ministry in Malaysia! What a wonderful example of following the Lord’s calling! Amy Justice (’10) – Amy received her BA in psychology from CCU in 2010 and is currently enrolled at Dallas Theological Seminary where she is pursuing her master’s of theology. In this time, Amy has noted how much she has drawn on what she learned at CCU through the professors and lessons. She would like to give a shout out to all of her professors from CCU and let them know that the love that they demonstrated is still sustaining her in seminary and has been a tremendous blessing. Thank you, Amy, for your kind words! Brian Yiech (‘96) – Brian graduated from the CISM program at CCU and is currently the director of recruitment at Resources Global Professionals, San Antonio office. Brian joined Resources Global Professionals in June of 2012, and his primary responsibility is maintaining and developing a diversified team of professional consultants available for client engagements. Prior to assuming this role, Brian served as Sr. Human Resources Administrator of Recruitment at the city of San Antonio. Brian is a 21 year US Air Force veteran, where he rounded out his military service assisting with the development and implementation of an online employee self service portal servicing US Air Force personnel.
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This section of the Colorado Christian Connection is designed to encourage alumni to stay connected. If you’ve had a recent change in your life (i.e., engagement, wedding, birth, new job, promotion, or something else exciting), we’d like to hear about it. Submit your news and photos to www.ccu.edu/alumni/share.asp
Smart phone users: download a “QR Reader App” for free at www.ccu.edu/QR then take a picture of the QR code to view this web page on your phone.
1975
Western Bible Institute Becomes Western Bible College
1983
Colorado Baptist University Established
1985
Western Bible College and Rockmont College merge to form Colorado Christian College
1989 - Present
Colorado Christian College and Colorado Baptist University merge to form Colorado Christian University
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a letter from
Dear Friends, Helpers & Family,
The other day I fell asleep for the last time and my soul was escorted to Paradise by angels. Yes, there really are angels, and we were guided there by a bright light. It was a most fantastic trip and we were met at the Eastern Gate, at that beautiful entrance of the Promised Land. There was my husband Dan, my mom and dad, and Frieda, Rudy, my brother Pete and my sister Mary, my dear grandson Clayton, and all my friends and relatives that have gone on before. Dan had a brand new body. He picked me up and held me for the longest time and he told me that he missed me, and that he loved me. He said look at yourself, and I realized I had a new body. I was not blind anymore, I could hear everyone clearly. My skin was smooth; my arms and legs were strong; my back had no pain. Dan and I walked into Paradise hand in hand. Oh, what a day that was! We walked in and he introduced me to all the new friends he had.The angels gave me a robe and crown and they said Jesus was waiting for me. We went over to the Great White Throne; it was magnificent. And there was my Savior, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. At His feet was this huge pile of crowns and I took mine off and I put it on top of the pile. I didn’t know what I was going to do at that moment, whether I was going to dance for joy or be still and lay down in front of His feet. Then He said my name “Anne, I see your name here in the Lamb’s Book of Life. Well done, good and faithful servant.” He took my hand and then I saw the holes in His palms from the nails. We just walked for a while and He said, “I love you and I have been waiting for you. How do you like your new home?” My Savior said to me that I will never again feel pain, and I will never again have a bad day. Just imagine, I walked around
anne klassen
God’s Heaven with my Lord, sheltered safe in the hand of my Jesus. I looked down and I saw that the roads were actually paved with gold.
He told me there would be no more storms in my life, no more sorrow, no more sadness, no parting, no trouble, just peace in the valley for me and everyone here. Everything He has promised has come true. Everything He said He will do, He has done. I know you are at—well, what you call my funeral, but I would rather call it my graduation. Thank you to my three daughters for taking such great care of me when I was with you. I am so proud of you, Verna, Margaret, and Janet, and all my family. I am looking forward to seeing you again here in the Promised Land. Until we meet again. You are all always in my thoughts and prayers. It is well, it is well with my soul. God be with you ‘til we meet again. Mom, grandma & great grandma, sister & friend, Anne Klassen
Anne Klassen was the beloved mother of Verna Pauls, wife of CCU board of trustees member, Bill Pauls. Anne passed into the arms of Jesus in June of 2013. Verna Pauls’ brother, Gerry, penned this letter just after she passed away.
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Benefits of a CCU Charitable Gift Annuity.
1. ATTRACTIVE RATES. When you compare our gift annuity rates with what you might receive from a certificate of deposit you will be pleasantly surprised. (Rates average between 4%-9%)* 2. REGULAR PAYMENTS. When you establish your gift annuity, you decide how often you want to receive your payments (with certain restrictions) 3. FIXED INCOME. Your payment rate will be locked in at the time you obtain your gift annuity. 4. LIFETIME BENEFIT. Gift annuities are for life. And if you have a two-life gift annuity, when one person dies, the other can continue to receive the same amount for the rest of his/her life. 5. DEPENDABLE SOURCE, CCU reinsures all gift annuities, so your assets are protected with the backing of a top-rated insurance company. 6. RELIEF FROM TAXES. Since part of your contribution for a gift annuity is considered a charitable gift by the IRS, you will receive an income tax charitable deduction to apply on an itemized tax return. 7. SIMPLE PROCESS. We can provide you with a tailor-made illustration so you can see how it all works with your age and contribution amount included. Interested in enjoying these benefits? Are you at or near retirement age? Let us give you more information. Contact: Dan Westermann, Director of Development and Planned Giving Colorado Christian University 303-963-3330 *Rates will vary depending upon age and number of beneficiaries.
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Colorado Christian University
8787 W. Alameda Ave. Lakewood, CO 80226
ALUMNI SUCCESS
Degree: B.S. in Business Administration Class Year: 2008
Scan this QR code with your smart phone to go to: ccu.edu/successstories
Kari Osborne | Senior Treasury Advisor and Vice President for UMB Bank
Kari Osborne very clearly desires to serve the Lord, wherever she is placed. This desire is demonstrated in her academic and professional endeavors. In her role as senior treasury advisor and vice president for UMB, she seeks to provide banking solutions and supportive, authentic business relationships for non-profit and government sectors. “I strongly believe that this is where God has placed me, and I really want to steward that well—and steward the role and talents God has given me,” says Kari. After studying vocal performance at Southwest Baptist University and transferring to one of CCU’s heritage schools, Colorado Baptist University, life happened, and Kari never finished her undergraduate degree at that time. Later, she honed her communication and finance skills while studying in the College of Adult and Graduate Studies program at Colorado Christian University. “Part of going back to school and finishing my education was really about taking seriously the stewardship of my role at UMB.” In 2008, Kari graduated with her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with honors, and continues to bring integrity and competency to the finance world.
