The J.N. Andrews sculpture [Martin Lee]
Throughout Andrews University’s rich history, our students, faculty, staff and alumni have answered this call with resounding enthusiasm, embracing their roles as ambassadors of hope who are called to offer transformation to a broken world. Andrews University has become a launchpad for impacting lives, whether it’s through local community service initiatives, courageous overseas missionary work or the profound influence we wield in our careers and daily encounters with one another.
At Andrews University we believe that each dimension and experience of learning can provide purpose and shape destiny, bringing into clearer focus God’s plans for our lives. We believe that each person is uniquely crafted by God with amazing talents and gifts for mission, and we strive to nurture those abilities to their fullest potential.
Our deep commitment to mission has been carefully guided over the years by the dedicated and visionary leadership of President Andrea Luxton and, before her, President Niels-Erik Andreasen.
It is a mission that is also sustained each day by our remarkable faculty, passionate staff and talented students who are making a difference in their disciplines. It is backed by our wide range of excellent academic programs and through professional and student organizations. It is reinforced by the vibrant campus life that fosters meaningful connections and lifelong friendships. Also, through our strategic partnerships with sister institutions and organizations that span the globe, we continue to shape and inspire mission-focused leaders who are equipped to address the challenges and opportunities of an ever-changing world.
In the coming year, we will celebrate 150 years of writing a legacy that has redefined the world. We will celebrate and continue to follow in the footsteps of our namesake, J.N. Andrews, the trailblazing missionary of the Seventh-day Adventist Church who, with his family, formally began their lives of global service in 1874.
J.N. Andrews’ unwavering commitment to mission serves today as a shining beacon of inspiration. His dedication to serving others is reflected in the stories you will read here, which offer just a glimpse of the many dedicated people who represent our University family.
Meet, for example, Curtis Johnson, a visionary student who is developing a revolutionary wheelchair that empowers users to navigate in a straight line with one hand. Be inspired by the ingenuity and dedication of students Gloria Oh, Ariana Dice and Sarah Wolf, who are creating refill stations for soap and detergents, embodying the spirit of sustainability and stewardship.
Embark on a journey with Josalynn Clark as she creates a free summer camp for children in the Bronx that nurtures young hearts with hope. Witness the transformative work that seeks to support and uplift Syrian refugees at the Adventist Learning Center in Lebanon that is being pursued by Maci Chen and Naissa Ndiaye, students placed there by our International Center for Trauma Education & Care.
Delve into the remarkable story of Floribert Kubwayezu, a distance learning student who earned his master’s degree in international development while providing vital humanitarian aid in Burundi. Immerse yourself in the spiritual mission of our Center for Faith Engagement, where authentic conversations bridge the gaps that often separate us, as Andrews University students lead the way through the captivating podcast “In Passing.”
In these stories and countless others, I believe that you will find the kindling for your own transformative journey. I pray that you will let these stories and these students’ examples ignite the fire within you to Change the World around us.
At Andrews University, we offer more than simply an outstanding academic education. Here, our students also thrive spiritually, socially and physically. Through immersive classes, service opportunities and the relationships students forge with fellow students, staff and faculty, we consistently cultivate a whole-person development that extends far beyond the boundaries of our campus. The impact of each one of these life-changing relationships continues to mentor and shape our graduates as they, in turn, seek to impact and Change the World in tangible and meaningful ways.
In essence, an education at Andrews University is a lifetime investment in mission, in fulfilling our divine purpose.
As the new president of this extraordinary and life-changing institution, I am humbled by the privilege to serve alongside the remarkable leaders, faculty and staff of Andrews University. I ask for your prayers as we move forward in our continuing goal to inspire and grow hearts and minds that will Seek Knowledge from Him who is the Source of all truth; as our students Affirm Faith and define their place in a world marred by sin but brimming with the hope found in Jesus; and as our students, faculty and staff all unite together in shared mission to Change the World for God.
If you, or someone you know, yearns to develop a life filled with meaning and purpose, to discover new horizons and deep life experiences, and to seize incredible opportunities that are centered in God’s plans for our lives, I extend an invitation: please join us on an inspiring and transformative journey as we advance the frontiers of learning, faith and Christian service.
Together let us embrace our mission to Change the World and leave an indelible mark that testifies to the power of God’s love in our lives.
John Wesley Taylor V, president, Andrews University
