Andrews University Agenda

Andrews University Agenda http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/ News and Events at Andrews University en-us Copyright 2026, Andrews University Sun, 26 Apr 2026 22:12:00 +0000 Sun, 26 Apr 2026 22:12:00 +0000 webmaster@andrews.edu webmaster@andrews.edu Volunteers to Renovate Lamson Hall This Summer http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/69120 <p> Andrews University is inviting volunteers to be part of a meaningful summer initiative that continues renovations at Lamson Hall, one of the University’s historic residence halls. From May 17 through June 5, 2026, volunteers will work together to restore and upgrade living spaces, improving the residential experience for current and future students.</p> <p> Lamson Hall, home to generations of Andrews women, reflects decades of campus life. Parts of the building date back to the 1940s, and the west side—constructed in the 1960s—has never undergone a full renovation. This summer’s project focuses on addressing long-standing infrastructure needs while enhancing comfort and functionality.</p> <p> “This renovation project is to do room and bathroom renovations,” says Jennifer Burrill, assistant vice president for Campus & Student Life and Residence Life. “The bathrooms on the west side have never been updated, and the plumbing system is interconnected, so we have to renovate in vertical sections, or ‘towers,’ from the basement to the third floor.”</p> <p> The work will include fully remodeling bathrooms, replacing plumbing, installing new carpet, repainting rooms, updating blinds, and removing built-in desks in favor of movable furniture to provide greater flexibility for residents. Organizers aim to complete two of these vertical sections during the summer, continuing progress that began in previous years.</p> <p> The need for renovation is both practical and urgent. Aging infrastructure has created ongoing challenges for residents and maintenance teams alike. By addressing these issues, the project is expected to significantly improve the holistic well-being of Lamson residents.</p> <p> “It improves their quality of life,” Burrill says. “Students don’t have to worry about something breaking. It allows them to experience a more stress-free living environment and focus on why they’re here.”</p> <p> Previous renovation efforts have already made a positive impact. Students living in updated spaces have responded enthusiastically, noting the difference in both comfort and overall experience. As work continues, University leaders hope to extend these benefits across the remaining sections of the building.</p> <p> Volunteers will play a central role in making this progress possible. Both skilled and unskilled individuals are welcome to participate. While those with experience in areas such as plumbing, carpentry, painting or tile work are especially valuable, no prior experience is required.</p> <p> Burrill shares, “If someone is willing to help, there’s always something they can do—whether that’s demolition, painting or assisting in other areas.”</p> <p> The project is open to a wide range of participants, including students, church groups and individuals interested in serving. Work will progress continuously throughout each week, with tasks being adapted based on the stage of the renovation rather than following a fixed schedule.</p> <p> To support volunteers, Andrews University will provide housing and meals. The project is designed not only as a work opportunity but also as a chance to build community and contribute to a shared mission.</p> <p> For those considering participation, Burrill emphasizes the long-term significance of the effort. “Come make a difference for the future of Adventist education,” she says. “You’re impacting students for many years to come. Every student who lives in those rooms will experience the gift of your time.”</p> <p> As Andrews University continues to invest in its student experience, the Lamson Hall renovation project stands as a tangible opportunity for individuals and communities to be part of that mission—one room, one floor and one act of service at a time.</p> <p> Volunteers can sign up to participate in one, two or all three weeks of the project. Registration is currently open, and interested individuals are encouraged to <a href="https://www.cognitoforms.com/AndrewsUniversity2/LamsonVolunteerSignupForSummer2026">reserve their spot</a> and join the renovation team this summer.</p> Thu, 23 Apr 2026 14:01:41 +0000 New Flight Simulator Enhances Pilot Training http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/69119 <p> The Department of Aviation at Andrews University recently unveiled a new 737-MAX Crew Resource Trainer, a full-scale replica of a Boeing 737 cockpit designed to enhance advanced pilot training. The simulator was introduced during an Open House and Dedication Ceremony on Feb. 27, marking a significant step forward for the University’s aviation program and its preparation of future professional pilots.</p> <p> Designed to strengthen decision-making, crew communication and professional readiness, the simulator gives students a realistic environment to practice complex scenarios before entering airline operations.</p> <p> The new simulator represents an important milestone for the aviation program as it continues to expand its training capabilities. Faculty members noted that while the department has used other simulators in the past, the new equipment provides a more advanced and reliable platform for preparing future pilots.</p> <p> Reflecting on the transition during the Dedication Ceremony, Kimberly Pichot, dean of the College of Professions, shared that the department had worked hard to keep its previous simulators operational for as long as possible. “We had been running our simulators on Windows XP until last year and even buying parts on eBay to keep them working,” she said, noting that newer technology now allows the program to offer an even stronger training experience for students.</p> <p> The new developments were made possible through the generosity of donors who support the mission of aviation education at Andrews. An anonymous donor provided funding that allowed the University to replace its commercial simulator with the new 737-MAX model, leaders shared during the event.</p> <p> “It’s a wonderful addition to the educational programs here at Andrews University,” said University President John Wesley Taylor V after he completed one of the first demonstration flights in the simulator. According to Taylor, the experience also gave him “a new respect for pilots and the many details involved in their training.”</p> <p> Faculty members emphasized that the new equipment better reflects the type of aircraft students will encounter after graduation. John-Andrew Smith, chief flight instructor, noted that the simulator will serve several courses within the aviation curriculum and represents a final stage of preparation before students complete their training.</p> <p> For instructors like Seth Wallack, a recent aviation graduate who now teaches in the program, the technology offers an important bridge between University training and professional flight operations. “This is a really exciting opportunity for students and instructors to train on a brand-new simulator that prepares them for airline operations,” he said.</p> <p> Students also see the new simulator as a major improvement. When Mikhail Nisbett arrived at Andrews five years ago, the training equipment looked very different. “The simulator we had was much older and not nearly as realistic,” Nisbett explained. “This new simulator offers a much more true-to-life flying experience.”</p> <p> For first-year aviation student Rachel DeJonge, the biggest benefit is accessibility. Having the simulator on campus means students no longer need to travel to other institutions to gain experience with certain types of aviation technology. “Now we’ll be able to gain that experience here,” she said.</p> <p> “This simulator represents the next level of what can be taught here at Andrews,” University Chaplain Jonathan Fetrick reflected during the Dedication Ceremony.</p> <p> With the addition of the 737-MAX Crew Resource Trainer, Andrews University continues to expand its aviation program, equipping students with the skills, technology and professional preparation needed to serve in the global aviation industry.</p> Thu, 23 Apr 2026 13:45:11 +0000 Wind Symphony Presents "Americana Soundscape" http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/69077 <p> The Andrews University Wind Symphony, under direction of Denisse Santos-Gooden, will present its spring concert on Sunday, April 19, at 4 p.m. in the Howard Performing Arts Center. The concert, titled “Americana Soundscape,” will feature the music of American scenes and composers primarily from the 1930s, 1940s and 1950s.</p> <p> The performance will begin with George Gershwin’s lively “Strike Up the Band,” featuring graduate student conductor Francis Aguilar Jr. This will be followed by a delightful lineup including “The Wonderful World of Disney,” “Beale Street Blues,” “Moon River,” “Juba Dance” and “American Patrol.”</p> <p> After intermission, the second half of the concert will open with Aaron Copland’s “Hoe-Down” from “Rodeo,” conducted by graduate student Lymuel Ligsay. Other favorites will include “Baby Elephant Walk,” “Cole Porter on Broadway,” “Summertime” and “Tin Pan Alley.” As a special feature, the Andrews Brass will perform Irving Berlin’s “Puttin’ on the Ritz.”</p> <p> Join the Andrews University Wind Symphony for an afternoon of toe-tapping and sweet-swaying melodies. Tickets for this event can be purchased at <a href="https://howard.andrews.edu">howard.andrews.edu</a> and are $8.50 for general seating and $6.50 for students and seniors. There is a two-ticket limit if purchasing with a student ID. For additional information, contact the Howard box office at 269-471-3560. For a full season schedule of events, visit <a href="https://howard.andrews.edu">howard.andrews.edu</a>.</p> <div> <u font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); box-sizing: border-box;">                    </u></div> <div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> To learn more about studying at Andrews University, please visit <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/admissions/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">Enrollment</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> If you’re interested in joining the Andrews University team, please see the list of available <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/services/hr/job_seekers/index.html" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">positions</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> We invite you to support the Andrews University mission by making a <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/services/development/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">donation</a>.</div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> Please read more about great things happening at Andrews University <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/agenda/feed/Agenda:+Campus+News/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">here</a>.<span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);"> </span></div> </div> Thu, 09 Apr 2026 11:48:34 +0000 Symphony Orchestra to Perform Spring Concert http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/69056 <p> The Andrews University Symphony Orchestra, directed by Marc Élysée, will present its spring concert on Thursday, April 9, at 7:30 p.m. in the Howard Performing Arts Center. The concert is sponsored by the classical radio station WAUS, housed in the Howard Performing Arts Center, as a thank you to donors. The concert will be free of charge for all attendees.</p> <p> The evening will begin with a performance of “Piano Concerto No. 2, Op. 18” by Sergei Rachmaninoff, featuring piano soloist Ben Loenser. After intermission, the second half of the concert will feature “Danse macabre” by Camille Saint-Saëns and “Carmen Suite No. 1” by Georges Bizet.</p> <p> The Andrews University Symphony Orchestra invites everyone to enjoy this musical celebration. For additional information, contact the Howard box office at 269-471-3560. For a full season schedule of events at the Howard Performing Arts Center, visit <a href="http://howard.andrews.edu">howard.andrews.edu</a>.</p> Mon, 06 Apr 2026 15:50:25 +0000 Engineering Students Contribute to Lunar Research http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/69046 <p> Engineering students at Andrews University are contributing to the future of lunar exploration through a new industry partnership with Astroport Space Technologies, a space infrastructure company collaborating with Astrolab Venturi on the development of the Flexible Logistics & Exploration (FLEX) lunar rover. Astroport recently gained national attention in the September 2025 issue of National Geographic through the feature “The Great Moon Rush,” which highlighted growing efforts to build infrastructure on the moon.</p> <p> The collaboration began through the Industry Lab at the Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship after Matias Soto, director of Innovation & Entrepreneurship, met Astroport CEO Sam Ximenes in Texas several years ago. The initial connection evolved into a formal partnership in summer 2024, when the Industry Lab sought opportunities to engage students. Ximenes agreed to sponsor a project within the School of Engineering, creating a direct pathway for Andrews students to contribute to ongoing lunar development efforts.</p> <p> “This partnership reflects exactly what the Industry Lab is designed to do,” Soto explains. His goal is to connect students with meaningful industry challenges, allowing them to apply classroom learning to tangible, real-world impact. By facilitating partnerships with external companies, the lab enables students to gain professional experience while contributing to active technological development.</p> <p> As global interest in lunar exploration continues to grow, there is an increased need for thorough site preparation to build surface infrastructure like landing pads. A key challenge in this process is removing large rocks embedded in the lunar regolith that exceed the handling capacity of standard excavation tools. As space agencies and private companies accelerate plans for sustained lunar missions, technologies that improve site preparation and surface operations are becoming essential. By contributing to these developments, Andrews students are supporting broader efforts to establish sustained human and robotic operations on the lunar surface.</p> <p> To help address these challenges, a team of three senior engineering students, Cailan Fleming, Daena Holbrook and Leo Stockler Martins, is developing a prototype screening and transport tool designed for compatibility with the Astrolab FLEX rover. The tool is intended to separate oversized rocks from finer lunar soil and enable efficient material transport. The prototype will be developed and tested on Earth, with the long-term objective of potential integration into the FLEX rover system.</p> <p> The students are completing the project through the School of Engineering’s Review of Engineering Design and Senior Design Project courses. They meet weekly with engineers from Astroport and faculty from Andrews to refine designs, assess technical requirements and ensure progress toward project goals.</p> <p> Gunnar Lovhoiden, chair of the School of Engineering, notes that the experience goes far beyond a typical classroom assignment. “Students are developing technology under real-world constraints and collaborating across organizations and time zones,” he says. “It is a rare opportunity to contribute to work that could one day support a lunar base.”</p> <p> The collaboration not only provides students with professional engineering experience but also elevates Andrews University's presence within the aerospace industry. These partnerships strengthen the University’s commitment to experiential learning and position its engineering program at the forefront of technological development.</p> Thu, 02 Apr 2026 14:19:12 +0000 Andrews University Presents Easter Choral Concert http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/69025 <p> On Saturday, April 4, at 8:30 p.m., the Andrews University Department of Music will present an Easter choral concert titled “Unsealed: Life Triumphant!” The concert will feature two profound and contrasting sacred works: “Christ lag in Todesbanden” by Johann Sebastian Bach and “Rejoice in the Lamb” by Benjamin Britten.</p> <p> The program explores themes of resurrection, joy and spiritual reflection from baroque, 20th century and 21st century musical voices. Stephen Zork, director of choral studies, will lead the Andrews University Singers during the concert.</p> <p> The performance will also serve as the graduate choral conducting recital for student Jahaziel Gutierrez, who will direct a chamber orchestra selected from the Andrews University Symphony Orchestra along with organists Kenneth Logan and Brenton Offenback.</p> <p> Community members are encouraged to support the Department of Music and enjoy this student-led program that celebrates the Easter season with depth, beauty and artistry. Tickets can be purchased at <a href="http://howard.andrews.edu">howard.andrews.edu</a>. General admission tickets are priced individually at $8.50. Students and seniors can purchase discounted tickets for $6.50 (with a limit of two tickets per student ID). For more information, contact the Howard Box Office at 269-471-3560.</p> <div> <u font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); box-sizing: border-box;">                    </u></div> <div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> To learn more about studying at Andrews University, please visit <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/admissions/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">Enrollment</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> If you’re interested in joining the Andrews University team, please see the list of available <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/services/hr/job_seekers/index.html" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">positions</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> We invite you to support the Andrews University mission by making a <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/services/development/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">donation</a>.</div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> Please read more about great things happening at Andrews University <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/agenda/feed/Agenda:+Campus+News/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">here</a>.<span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);"> </span></div> </div> Thu, 26 Mar 2026 11:39:25 +0000 Andrews University to Host Virtual Graduate Fair http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/69008 <p> Andrews University will host a Virtual Graduate Fair on March 30 from 6–9 p.m., offering prospective students an opportunity to explore graduate programs at the University and connect directly with faculty and program representatives in a fully online format.</p> <p> The event will begin with a livestreamed session from 6–7 p.m., featuring a welcome from University President John Wesley Taylor V, five-minute highlights from selected graduate programs and practical tips for success in graduate and online studies. The session will be streamed on YouTube and Facebook. Following the opening hour, attendees will be able to join interactive Zoom breakout rooms to engage with faculty, deans and program chairs in focused conversations about specific areas of study.</p> <p> The Virtual Graduate Fair will feature key information about graduate education, allowing participants to learn about program offerings, admissions requirements and financial aid options while asking questions in real time.</p> <p> “We want prospective students to have a clear understanding of their options and feel confident about their next step,” says Bordes Henry Saturné, vice president for Strategic Enrollment, Marketing & Communication. “This event creates a space where they can connect directly with the people who will support them throughout their academic journey.”</p> <p> A wide range of graduate programs will be represented at the event, including psychology, social work, allied health, speech-language pathology, chaplaincy and education. Program representatives will additionally discuss pathways for transfer students, international students, working professionals, and adult learners seeking degree completion or career advancement. Information about scholarships, assistantships and other financial aid opportunities will also be shared.</p> <p> The event is open to current undergraduate students, recent graduates, working professionals, ministry leaders and others considering graduate study. While the event is free, registration is <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/splash/v-grad-fair/index.html">required</a>, and a Zoom link will be emailed to registered participants in advance. </p> Tue, 24 Mar 2026 18:17:00 +0000 Andrews University Presents IGNITE 2026 http://www.andrews.edu/agenda/69007 <p> IGNITE, a three-week summer discipleship experience hosted at Andrews University, will take place from July 26–Aug. 14, 2026. In addition to offering academic credit to high school and college students, IGNITE is designed as an intentional space for spiritual growth, mentoring and community. It is a place where Adventist faith can take root, friendships can grow and purpose begins to feel real.</p> <p> “IGNITE is an opportunity for students who desire a deep relationship with God to grow in that relationship,” says Alanna Rodríguez Merlos, director of the program and the Andrews University Discipleship Center. “It helps them understand their Adventist identity and what it looks like to have a daily walk with Christ that can endure hardship and uncertainty.”</p> <p> The program was created to address a growing need among young people for faith that is both grounded and lived. IGNITE creates an environment where Seventh-day Adventist beliefs are made practical in light of the gospel.</p> <p> Rodríguez Merlos notes that students often arrive longing for meaningful spiritual friendships. “They don’t leave with just a summer experience,” she says. “They leave with relationships that continue long after the program ends.” IGNITE offers a community where students can learn to understand their faith, experience what it means to truly know Jesus and his righteousness, and explore how to share their faith with Christ at the center.</p> <p> That sense of belonging and spiritual growth was evident during the program’s inaugural summer last year. Some participants shared that it was the first time they felt free to openly love Jesus while surrounded by peers with the same desire. For many, that community became a source of strength and encouragement. As the program moves into its upcoming sessions, its emphases on community and building Adventist belief continue through intentional mentoring and ongoing support.</p> <p> IGNITE recognizes that true discipleship does not end when the program concludes. Each group of students is paired with a coach who walks alongside them throughout the summer and continues meeting with them afterward. Ideally, these one-on-one mentoring conversations continue weekly for several months, helping students transition back into their everyday environments with support and accountability.</p> <p> “Discipleship takes time,” Rodríguez Merlos explains. “Jesus didn’t form His disciples in a short moment, and neither do we. The ongoing relationship is what makes the difference.”</p> <p> Beyond spiritual mentoring, IGNITE integrates practical elements that help students connect Adventist faith with real life. Through career guidance sessions, students reflect on calling, gifts, and future academic or professional paths. The program also introduces students to digital evangelism, equipping them to engage thoughtfully and compassionately in spiritual conversations using everyday technology. Rather than emphasizing performance, the program focuses on building confidence and discernment, helping students learn how faith naturally shapes the way they relate to others.</p> <p> For parents, IGNITE offers reassurance as well as opportunity. During the three-week program, students will live on campus in a structured, supportive environment that balances independence with guidance. Rodríguez Merlos emphasizes that the program is built on trust. “We entrust students with responsibility, much like Jesus did with His disciples,” she says. “And they consistently rise to that trust.”</p> <p> Several parents have seen that the program impacted their children in positive ways. One parent shared that after returning home, her daughter demonstrated greater maturity and independence—qualities that reflect the program’s intentional focus on growth, faith and responsibility.</p> <p> As organizers prepare IGNITE’s 2026 session, Rodríguez Merlos describes the program as an investment that extends beyond academics. “This is about shaping a foundation that will carry students through college and into life,” she says. “What they gain here has the potential to last far beyond these three weeks.”</p> <p> For those seeking ways to make Adventism come alive in the light of righteousness by faith and the cross of Christ, IGNITE offers a path forward. Additional program details will be updated on the Andrews <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/audc/ignite/index.html">website</a>.</p> <div> <u font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); box-sizing: border-box;">                    </u></div> <div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> To learn more about studying at Andrews University, please visit <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/admissions/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">Enrollment</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> If you’re interested in joining the Andrews University team, please see the list of available <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/services/hr/job_seekers/index.html" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">positions</a>. </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> We invite you to support the Andrews University mission by making a <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/services/development/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">donation</a>.</div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">  </div> <div font-size:="" ibm="" plex="" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(51, 51, 51);"> Please read more about great things happening at Andrews University <a href="https://www.andrews.edu/agenda/feed/Agenda:+Campus+News/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(0, 74, 128); text-decoration: none;">here</a>.<span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);"> </span></div> </div> Tue, 24 Mar 2026 17:34:25 +0000