Christina Hunter | Photo by Henry Chaney, Destiny Art
Christina Hunter has joined the staff of Andrews University as dean of University Towers, director of Guest & Convention Services, and sponsor for the Andrews University Graduate Student Association (AUGSA).
Hunter grew up on the Andrews campus, attending junior high at Ruth Murdoch Elementary School and graduating from Andrews Academy. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Psychology at Andrews University and, during her college years, worked as a student employee at Student Financial Services. “Interacting with students on a daily basis gave me my first inklings about the type of work I may one day like to do,” she says. “I also was very passionate about music and a major connection to the University came through becoming a member of the Deliverance Mass Choir. Little did I know I would later become a director of the choir. I learned so much about spiritual leadership and ministry and have carried those precious experiences with me throughout my life.”
Hunter went on to earn a Master of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with an emphasis in Diversity and Career Counseling from the University of Missouri–St. Louis. She spent 10 years of her career in higher education and Student Life, including work as a counselor, student assistance specialist and instructor. She notes, “I provided academic, personal and career counseling to students as well as worked closely with students in crisis.”
In close contact with many Andrews faculty and staff as an alum, the University eventually reached out to her about a job. “After much prayer and exploration, I felt confident that God opened this door to allow me to return to my Andrews University community to serve our students and make a positive difference in their lives,” she says.
In her role as dean, Hunter works primarily with graduate and upper-level student residents. She provides support related to residential life and develops programming that helps residents grow mentally, socially, emotionally, professionally and spiritually. “One of my favorite events is the Thursday night “Love+Commune” worship service, a weekly opportunity for our students to connect with each other and God through meaningful worship, tasty food and fellowship.”
Serving as the AUGSA sponsor gives her opportunity to further connect with students as she guides student leaders in building a community for graduate students through programming, events and support.
As director of Guest & Convention Services, Hunter oversees campus guest rooms and aims to provide memorable, comfortable accommodations with excellent customer service and great attention to detail for those visiting the Andrews University campus. “I am guided by the concept that first impressions are everything and strive to have our guest services reflect that. We are excited about the opening of the new Advent Prayer Center that will provide accommodations in addition to our Campus Center rooms,” she states. “This Center will provide a beautiful, tranquil space for our guests to enjoy a relaxing and comfortable stay on campus.”
Overall, she hopes to bring a caring spirit and personal interaction to her work. She says, “My prayer, especially for our graduate students, is that they can feel connected and valued while enhancing their academics and developing their careers. I look forward to making a meaningful impact on this campus for our students and our guests.”
Married to Claval Hunter, a pastor, they have three children: Chloe, Isaiah and Adam.
