2014 Alumni Journal: Winter Issue

yellowstone
alumni trip
june 14-20, 2015
Experience one of the richest displays of God’s creation
with people deeply committed to reflecting His glory.
www.cornerstone.edu/yellowstone

BUILD A LIFE THAT MATTERS TABLE OF CONTENTS WINTER 2014 – REFLECT
reflect
On the cover
Ashley Dakin (B.A. ’07) holds a bachelor’s degree in theatre
from CU and a masters degree in acting from Regent University.
She recently produced the campus production of “Little Shop of
Horrors” and taught as an adjunct instructor. Prior to her return to
CU, she was an actress at Overseas Radio and Television in Taiwan
and on-camera talent for Studio Center Total Productions at Regent
University. She has also been featured in several commercials.
RYAN PRINS PHOTOGRAPHY © 2013
alumni profiles
5 Reflect
The Alumni Association annually highlights men
and women who embody the mission of
Cornerstone University and Grand Rapids
Theological Seminary. Read about the 11 people
who earned the honor and were recognized at
the Winter Gala.
6 Athletic Hall of Honor Inductees
David Damesworth, Emily Knudson, Dr. Al
Meredith, Cathi (Velzen) Powell, Derek Scott and
Dr. Tom Matelic
12 Alumnus of the Year Award Recipients
Dr. Gary Anderson, Senita Lenear and Dr. Kelly
James Bonewell
15 Faculty Hall of Honor Inductees
Dr. Brenda King and Prof. David Kennedy
campus news
17 Breaking Ground
Some important campus facilities are getting
a facelift and Coach Kim Elders is making
history. Check out some of the major news at
Cornerstone.
18 CU INFLUENCE – A new chapel will open in
Fall 2015
Ground was recently broken for a 1,475-seat
chapel on the campus of Cornerstone University.
See how this will impact the next generation of
influencers for Christ and provide a place for
community worship on campus.
share your news
20 Updates from Classmates
Get up to date on what alumni are doing
personally and professionally.
ALUMNI JOURNAL STAFF
Nate Clason
Director of Alumni Relations
Amanda Lawrence
Alumni Relations Coordinator
Bob Sack
Executive Director of Marketing
& Communications
Jordan Shepherd
Marketing Project Manager
Caroline Cahoon
Art Director
Kelli Cottrell
University Writer/Editor
Photography:
Coastline Studios
Leroy Reed Productions
Megan Tracy
Ryan Prins Photography
ALUMNI ASSOCIATION
The CU Alumni Association is a
community of people who reflect
Cornerstone University’s history,
steady its present and cultivate its
future.
The Cornerstone University Alumni
Journal is produced two times
annually through a partnership
between the Alumni Relations and
Marketing & Communications offices
at Cornerstone University.
Permission to quote short portions
of this publication is granted as long
as content is preserved and proper
credit is given to the Alumni Journal.
Cornerstone University does not
discriminate on the basis of race,
national origin, sex, age or disability in
its policies and programs.
CONTACT US
www.cornerstone.edu/alumni
alumni@cornerstone.edu
616.222.1439
Cornerstone University
Office of Alumni Relations
1001 E Beltline Ave NE
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
© 2014 Cornerstone University.
All rights reserved.
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WINTER 2014 – REFLECT LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT CORNERSTONE UNIVERSITY ALUMNI JOURNAL
MEGAN TRACY © 2014
REFLECTION can evoke reverence, nostalgia, sadness or laughter – sometimes all at once. As we
take time to look back at the story of Cornerstone University, one reflection stands above the others!
It is evident that God has abundantly blessed us in terms of the outstanding graduates who now
claim CU as their alma mater.
February’s Homecoming Gala is Cornerstone
University’s chance to recognize some of those without
whom CU would not be the place it is today. February’s
event features 11 honorees, from athletes to alumni
and faculty, who have made a significant impact on
Cornerstone University’s campus community and more
strategically on the communities where God has placed
them. Since it is our core value to graduate students
who will effectively influence their world for Christ,
these honorees exemplify Cornerstone University’s
reason for existence.
In addition to outstanding graduates, I continue to be
amazed at how God continues to prosper CU. And
near the top of the long list of his blessings is the
joy of announcing to you that on Jan. 22 we had a
groundbreaking service for a new chapel and music
facility. Christ Chapel and the addition to the Gordon
Music Building will be ready for occupancy in fall 2015
– just in time to provide an amazing venue for events
celebrating our 75 th anniversary. We are so grateful!
So, as we reflect on CU’s story, we look ahead with
confidence that the enterprise of raising a new
generation to influence the world for Christ will continue
to be blessed by Him. And, a big thanks to you,
Cornerstone University alumni, who have helped build
the foundation for the great things happening here
today.
Enjoy the good news in this publication!
Joe Stowell, President
4

BUILD A LIFE THAT MATTERS SHARE ALUMNI YOUR PROFILES NEWS WINTER 2014 – REFLECT
reflect
THE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION ANNUALLY HONORS distinguished alumni of
Cornerstone University and Grand Rapids Theological Seminary who achieve success
in their personal and professional lives during or after their time at CU. The following
featured alumni, who wonderfully embody the mission of the university, were
honored at the February 2014 Winter Gala.
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WINTER 2014 – REFLECT ALUMNI PROFILES CORNERSTONE UNIVERSITY ALUMNI JOURNAL
“
faith
My
foundation
”
ATHLETIC HALL OF HONOR INDUCTEE
DAVID DAMESWORTH (B.A. '04) Head PGA Pro, Orange Tree Golf Club
Currently the Head PGA Pro at Orange Tree Golf Club in Orlando, Fla.,
David Damesworth is the first golfer to be inducted into the Hall of
Honor at Cornerstone University.
Damesworth served for three years as team captain and was an All-
WHAC performer for four years at Cornerstone.
While at CU he earned 1st Team All-WHAC honors four times, 2002 and
2003 WHAC Player of the Year and low scorer in the conference.
In 2003-2004 he was the Cornerstone University Male Athlete of the
Year. Damesworth sparked the team to the 2000 WHAC Championship -
the first ever WHAC title in the history of CU men’s golf. He also led the
team to a 2003 WHAC Championship and the team set a school record
for Low-18 (287) in the NAIA championship.
“Damesworth put CU golf on the map,” said Chet Vandenberg, the
current men’s golf coach. “His performance pushed the program to
become competitive at the conference and national levels.”
After graduation, Damesworth moved to Orlando with his wife, Jennifer
(B.A. ’04), where he played professional golf full-time for three years
before being offered the head pro job at Orange Tree Golf Club.
Damesworth, 32, became a PGA member three years ago and recently
won Player of the Year for PGA 2013 North Florida PGA East Chapter.
In 2011, he won the Florida PGA Championship where 1,500 members
compete. Last year he played in the Bay Hill Invitational sponsored by
legendary golfer Arnold Palmer.
For the past three years he has finished in the top five for the Florida
PGA section.
“I am blessed and fortunate,” said Damesworth, who makes sure family
is his first priority. “My faith is my foundation. Being captain of the team
for three years at CU made me want to be the hardest working player
because I was the example for the team. I wanted to lead by example
and I still strive to do that today.”
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BUILD A LIFE THAT MATTERS ALUMNI PROFILES WINTER 2014 – REFLECT
PERSERVERANCE
&
LEADERSHIP
ATHLETIC HALL OF HONOR INDUCTEE
EMILY KNUDSON (B.A. '06) Teacher, St. Adalbert School
Emily Knudson holds a .351 career batting average at CU, with 198 career
hits, 37 career doubles, 9 career triples, 24 career home runs and 146
career RBIs.
“She always put others ahead of herself and whenever you were with
her, she made you smile and forget your troubles,” said Coach Jim
Farrell of Knudson’s impact on the team. “Emily was truly a pleasure to
have in our program.”
Knudson suffered a concussion as a result of a collision at first base
in a game during her junior season, and a second concussion later
during practice. She was subsequently diagnosed with postconcussive
syndrome and forced to miss her senior season. With the help of Phil
Keith, CU athletic trainer, Knudson made a full recovery and returned to
the field to play her final season in 2006.
“She was a major factor in helping us win our third regional tournament
and sending us to the NAIA National Championships,” said Farrell.
“I just love the sport,” said Knudson, who earned All Conference honors
four times and All Region honors twice. “I really enjoyed winning
regionals twice and going to nationals.”
Another highlight of her athletic career was being invited as a college
athlete to play on the USA Athletes International team in a tournament
in Prague, Czech Republic.
Knudson continues to impact those around her as she teaches prekindergarten
at St. Adalbert School in South Bend, Indiana. She credits
CU for helping her to develop as a teacher, leader and engaged member
of her community.
Since graduating, Knudson continues to play softball on league and
travel teams and plans to compete as long as she can.
“It’s exciting to be honored at Cornerstone,” she said.
Knudson was one of two players to play in both the 2004 and 2006
National Championship tournaments.
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WINTER 2014 – REFLECT ALUMNI PROFILES CORNERSTONE UNIVERSITY ALUMNI JOURNAL
“
god
HAD HIS
fav o r
ON US”
ATHLETIC HALL OF HONOR INDUCTEE
AL MEREDITH, PH.D. (B.R.E. '68) Pastor, Wedgwood Baptist Church
As a student athlete at CU, Dr. Al Meredith said he was so full of himself
he was unusable by God.
He was an outstanding basketball player at CU and excelled at many
other sports.
“But after college I failed as a teacher, I blew my witness on the tennis
court with key people and finally it all blew up,” said Meredith who has
one of the most well-known churches in America – Wedgwood Baptist
Church in Fort Worth, Texas. “I had to rely on God for my strength. I
learned that without him I can do nothing. I was really humbled.”
God was preparing him for something big.
In 1999, Meredith was instantly thrust into the spotlight – appearing on
major network news stations including CNN and the Today Show after
a gunman killed seven people and himself at Wedgwood during a “See
You At The Pole” youth service where 450 teens had gathered.
Meredith performed five of the funerals within three days and spoke
86 times on Romans 15:13 that year. During one prayer service in his
home, Pres. George W. Bush stopped by to pray with them. He led a
memorial service attended by 15,000 at the Texas Christian University
football stadium.
“God had his favor on us,” said Meredith, who used the opportunity
to share Jesus with everyone who wanted to interview him about the
shootings. “We were the most prayed for church for three months after
the shootings. It opened up doors to talk about where our hope is. His
name is Jesus.”
Meredith, who holds a masters and Ph.D. from Michigan State University,
helped his congregation and the entire country heal with those
messages of hope.
In the years after the shooting, the church grew by 50 percent. Meredith
now leads a congregation of 3,000 members with 10 full-time ministry
staff members.
He continues to be a beacon of hope and healing to communities
affected by senseless tragedies. Anytime a shooter is involved in a
school or church incident, Meredith is called by the media to comment
and give advice.
“I am honored to be chosen for the Hall of Honor,” said Meredith, who
also serves on the Board of Trustees at CU. “This is truly meaningful
to me.”
8

BUILD A LIFE THAT MATTERS ALUMNI PROFILES WINTER 2014 – REFLECT
“ a woman
THAT
PURSUEDchrist”
ATHLETIC HALL OF HONOR INDUCTEE
CATHI (VELZEN) POWELL (B.A. '06) Stay at home mom and coach
Cathi (Velzen) Powell starred in both women’s basketball and in track &
field while she was at Cornerstone University.
“Cathi was the best all around player I ever coached,” said Carla Fles,
former women’s basketball coach. “She expected a lot out of her
teammates and wasn’t afraid to push them. She would also do whatever
the team needed.”
Powell earned All-American honors as a junior and senior, 1st Team
All-Conference for three years straight, and still holds Cornerstone
University records, including first in scoring, first in assists, second in
steals and second in blocks.
“This is a huge honor,” said Powell, a mother of two who serves as
a Mother Of Preschoolers leader and a youth leader at NorthRidge
Church, where her husband, Justin (B.S. ’04), is the student ministries
director. “I’m grateful to my teammates and coaches who were
instrumental in helping me to develop leadership skills. The successes
we experienced together were pivotal in forming who I am today.”
After graduating, Powell coached basketball and track & field at
NorthPointe Christian School and track & field at Calvin Christian High
School in Grand Rapids. She now works part-time as a coach and
trainer for DSO Sports, alongside other former college and professional
athletes and coaches.
Powell was also on the outdoor track & field team from 2002-2005 and
the indoor track & field team in 2006.
“Cathi hated to lose,” said Paul Koutz, her coach. “Because of that
passion and drive, she still ranks near the top of the best athletes that I
have ever coached.”
Powell currently ranks on the CU all-time Top 5 performance list in
15 different events. She was a WHAC champion eight times, earned
All-American honors six times, and was the National Runner-up in the
Heptathlon in 2005.
“Away from track and field, she was a woman that pursued Christ and
could be counted on in all situations to have high integrity,” said Koutz.
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WINTER 2014 – REFLECT ALUMNI PROFILES CORNERSTONE UNIVERSITY ALUMNI JOURNAL
“ determined
&driven ”
ATHLETIC HALL OF HONOR INDUCTEE
DEREK SCOTT (B.S. '07)
Event/Sponsorship Coordinator, Fit Right • Street Team Coordinator, Portland Timbers
At the time of his graduation Derek Scott held 13 school records in track
and field and still holds 10 of those. He was two time Cross Country All
American, led the two highest team finishes in CU history, was eight
time Track and Field All American including two national runner-ups
(steeplechase, mile) and one National Championship (1500m).
Scott continues to hold two indoor freshmen records and two outdoor.
His junior year he qualified as an automatic indoor qualifier in nine
events including all of the relays. He was 2004 USA Jr. runner up
in steeplechase and was 2004 USA World Jr. team member
in steeplechase.
After graduation he ran at a competitive level with a club team in
Indiana where he ended his competitive career at the 2012 Olympic
Track and Field Trials. He coached at three universities before settling
in Portland, Oregon with his wife, Susie, where he works for an event
company and the Portland Timbers, a Major League Soccer team.
“I’m thrilled and grateful to be receiving this award,” said Scott.
“Cornerstone athletics made a huge impact on my life and to be
recognized by the University is very special. When I started at
Cornerstone I had an immediate sense of pride for the program because
of who came before me.”
Nate Van Holten, Scott’s coach, was impressed with how he led his team
and he showed character by example.
“In his final race as a Golden Eagle, Derek won the national
championship in the 1500m,” said Van Holten. “After his race he walked
over to Stephanie Allers and said, ‘now it’s your turn to win one.’ Just
a little bit later she crossed the line to become a national champion.
Derek’s words and actions carried so much power, and I’m grateful that I
was able to work with him so early in my career. He raised the standards
for all of us.”
10

BUILD A LIFE THAT MATTERS ALUMNI PROFILES WINTER 2014 – REFLECT
“ I AM A BIG
supporter
OF CORNERSTONE
sports”
ATHLETIC HALL OF HONOR INDUCTEE
TOM MATELIC, M.D.
Orthopaedic Surgeon, Team Physician for Cornerstone Athletes
Nineteen years ago when Dr. Tom Matelic moved to Grand Rapids, he
approached Cornerstone University basketball coach Kim Elders with
the idea of becoming the university’s athletic physician.
Since then, he has worked under three different CU presidents and
numerous coaches and trainers at Cornerstone. And, he has seen too
many games to count.
“I really enjoy working with the Cornerstone athletic department,” said
Dr. Matelic, whose family has closets of CU gear from many years of
cheering for the Golden Eagles. “I am humbled and truly honored to
receive this award. My kids have grown up coming to games with me. I
am a big supporter of Cornerstone sports.”
Dr. Matelic is a board certified orthopaedic surgeon with specialties in
sports medicine, arthroscopic surgery, total joint reconstruction and
ligament reconstruction and repair. He received his undergraduate
degree from Princeton University and his medical degree from Wayne
State University Medical School.
He has treated CU athletes for everything from ingrown toenails to
dislocated shoulders in order to keep them safe and get them back into
their fields of competition.
“My favorite school I have worked with is Cornerstone because of the
relationships I have with the coaches, players and staff,” said Dr. Matelic.
“I have continued to stay in contact with former athletes at the school
and enjoy watching them get married and have their own kids.”
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WINTER 2014 – REFLECT ALUMNI PROFILES CORNERSTONE UNIVERSITY ALUMNI JOURNAL
foundations
FOR service
TRADITIONAL UNDERGRADUATE ALUMNUS OF THE YEAR
GARY R. ANDERSON, PH.D. (B.R.E. '74)
Director of the School of Social Work, Michigan State University
Dr. Gary Anderson has spent the past 15 years as director of the School
of Social Work at Michigan State University.
Some of his accomplishments include graduate education at University
of Michigan and the University of Chicago, receiving the University
Teaching Award as a faculty member at New York City’s Hunter College,
being recognized in New York for his pioneering work on pediatric
AIDS, leading federally-funded national child welfare centers at Hunter
and MSU, writing numerous journal articles and teaching thousands of
students.
He strives to make a positive difference in higher education and social
work every day.
“I am grateful and humbled by this special recognition,” said Dr.
Anderson. “I am thankful for my GRBC friends, current and past
administrators and faculty members, and other alumni. My education at
Cornerstone helped to launch a rewarding career in higher education
and social work.
“During my time at Cornerstone, an undergraduate student was required
to have a Bible major, in addition to other academic majors and/or
minors. I don’t think I fully appreciated this at the time, but in retrospect
these were among my most interesting and inspiring classes.”
“His commitment to active and adult learning in the classroom and his
dedication to students outside of the classroom provided an excellent
role model for me plus the course content aligned with my future career
as a social worker and educator,” said Dr. Anderson.
He credits Cornerstone University for helping him accomplish his goals.
He explains: “Through (1) providing a solid academic program delivered
by talented professors who were committed to teaching and committed
to students; (2) affirming and reinforcing a commitment to the Bible as
the basis for my beliefs, my behavior and my gaining an appreciation
for social justice and service; and (3) promoting the development of
a personal world and life view that included integrating my faith and
my professional self. Academically and spiritually, my experiences at
Cornerstone laid a foundation for service in public higher education.”
He has continued his involvement with several Christian organizations,
including InterVarsity Christian Fellowship , where he served as an
associate staff member during graduate school at Michigan.
But his greatest joys since graduation are his wife of 35 years, Valerie
Glesnes-Anderson, who serves as the Executive Director of the Capital
Area Health Alliance in mid-Michigan, and his two adult daughters,
Lauren and Elizabeth.
Of particular importance to him was Dr. Ed Buchanan, professor
of psychology.
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BUILD A LIFE THAT MATTERS ALUMNI PROFILES WINTER 2014 – REFLECT
faith
IN action
PROFESSIONAL & GRADUATE STUDIES ALUMNA OF THE YEAR
SENITA LENEAR (B.S. '06) 3 rd Ward Grand Rapids City Commissioner
Known as a trailblazer, Senita Lenear has etched herself in the history
books of West Michigan – becoming the first African-American female
on the seven-member Grand Rapids City Commission.
Lenear is a summa cum laude graduate of Cornerstone University with
a bachelors in business management and minor in ministry leadership.
Prior to her recent City Commission election she served as president of
the Grand Rapids School Board, the third largest school district in the
state of Michigan. She was originally appointed to the school board in
October 2007 and then was elected to a four-year term in 2009.
Lenear has 20 years of business experience, which includes working in
corporate America and owning her own consulting firm. She is founder
of the My Body is a Temple program, which helps teens and young
adults discover the benefits of sexual abstinence before marriage.
During her tenure on the board of education, she chaired an ad hoc
Community Advisory Community, Co-Chaired the City-Schools Liaison
committee alongside Grand Rapids Mayor George K. Heartwell and
worked tirelessly on the education, legislative and finance committees.
Her husband, Dallas Lenear (M.Div. ’02), serves as executive pastor of
New Hope Baptist Church in Grand Rapids.
As a PGS student she further developed the ability to integrate her faith
into her work environment.
“Definitely as an elected official I practice that everyday,” she said.
“Learning how to do that in my classes makes it easy to do in every
aspect of my career. It’s been extremely valuable.”
Education is a passion of hers.
“Being on the board of education allowed me to put my faith in action
and I plan to do the same in my service to the community,” said Lenear,
a native of Chicago.
“I am extremely grateful to Cornerstone for this honor,” she said. “I am
excited and humbled.”
LEROY REED PRODUCTIONS © 2013
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WINTER 2014 – REFLECT ALUMNI PROFILES CORNERSTONE UNIVERSITY ALUMNI JOURNAL
“
I HAVE AN
entrepreneurial
spirit
”
SEMINARY ALUMNUS OF THE YEAR
KELLY JAMES BONEWELL, PH.D., LPC (M.A. '03)
Director of Congregational Care, Ada Bible Church
Dr. Kelly Bonewell, a graduate of M.A. Counseling at Grand Rapids
Theological Seminary, is currently the director of congregational care at
Ada Bible Church in Grand Rapids.
Prior to his position at Ada Bible Church, he founded Wellspring
Counseling in West Michigan, a counseling center that provides service
to thousands of people. Although he no longer leads the organization, it
continues to grow and offer churches an affordable place to refer their
members.
Dr. Bonewell, who earned a bachelor’s degree from Columbia College in
Chicago in 1990 and a doctorate in psychology from Capella University
in 2008, has published a book, “The End of All Our Exploring.”
“The (GRTS) program helped me to become a really good counselor and
gave me the skills necessary to build a successful organization to help
people,” said Bonewell, who oversees a team of three staff members and
150 trained volunteers who care for the 8,500-member congregation.
When he took the position five years ago at Ada, he had no model to
follow.
“Developing and growing a care ministry is complex, especially at larger
churches like Ada,” said Bonewell. “I have an entrepreneurial spirit. That
is what excited me about the job.”
Not only were his counseling classes important, but he credits the
systematic theology classes for forming who he is as a counselor.
“Systematic theology classes were just as important to my formation as
my counseling classes,” said Bonewell. “I am grateful for those classes
that helped me to form sound theology.”
He continues to develop new and expanding programs at Ada, where he
has a huge heart for caring for people in God’s church. He and his wife,
Julie, have been married for 19 years. They have two sons.
14
MEGAN TRACY © 2014

BUILD A LIFE THAT MATTERS ALUMNI PROFILES WINTER 2014 – REFLECT
“
teaching
energizesME
”
FACULTY HALL OF HONOR INDUCTEE
BRENDA KING, PH.D.
Chair of the Social Science Division & Professor of Sociology
“I love teaching here,” said Dr. Brenda King. “Teaching energizes me. I
feel blessed that God opened the door for me to be at Cornerstone.”
King has been teaching at Cornerstone University since 1976, and is now
teaching children of her former students.
“They tell me what their parents remember about the class, such as a
particular learning activity or a video we watched,” said King, chair of
the Social Science Division and professor of sociology. “Former students
often recall those ‘memorable moments’ when I see them.”
Her teaching style has evolved over the years, she said. “I think I’ve
gotten easier. And my philosophy has changed,” said King. “Student
learning is both my responsibility and the students’. I used to think it
was just the students’ responsibility.”
She has incorporated much more interactive learning material and
believes the students retain the experience longer.
King supervises social science and social work faculty, manages the
Social Science Division budget, advises transfer students in the division,
schedules courses, teaches classes in sociology and social psychology,
and serves on the Undergraduate Academic Council.
“Brenda’s social science research competencies have elevated the
credibility and academic quality of the institution,” said Dr. Rick
Ostrander, provost. “In addition, her career is characterized by her deep
care for the university, serious faith and service to students.”
She and her husband, Burnell (B.A. ’76, M.R.E. ’80), have 3 adult children.
In her spare time, she enjoys Zumba, gourmet cooking, upholstery and
playing the piano.
“As long as I have my health and effectiveness in the classroom, I will be
at CU,” said King.
MEGAN TRACY © 2014
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WINTER 2014 – REFLECT ALUMNI PROFILES CORNERSTONE UNIVERSITY ALUMNI JOURNAL
THE MOST
rewarding
pa rt
FACULTY HALL OF HONOR INDUCTEE
DAVID KENNEDY
Retired Associate Professor of Old Testament, Grand Rapids Theological Seminary
For 32 years, David Kennedy served as associate professor of Old
Testament at Grand Rapids Theological Seminary, teaching hundreds of
students Old Testament, Hebrew and English Bible.
“David exhibited a servant’s spirit on multiple levels,” said Dr. John
VerBerkmoes, vice president and academic dean of the seminary.
“He served as a teacher and mentor to students, administratively on
university-wide committees, as a teacher and liaison for ABTS and more
broadly through his many years of service in the military.”
Kennedy was a chaplain in the U.S. Army Reserve for more than 33
years. After being mobilized in 2003 he served in the Pentagon as
Deputy Staff Chaplain for the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Colonel Kennedy
retired from the military in May 2005.
“Even in retirement he continues to exhibit that servant’s spirit,” said
VerBerkmoes.
Kennedy still teaches as an adjunct professor at GRTS and Asia Biblical
Theological Seminary (ABTS) in Myanmar, Philippines and Thailand. He
also serves part-time at Berean Baptist Church in Grand Rapids where
he frequently preaches.
He regularly hears from past students who he impacted through his
teaching or through one-on-one meetings.
“I have always tried to be available to my students,” said Kennedy. “I
always give them all my contact information. I don’t believe in being
in the ivory tower. That has been the most rewarding part of my job –
helping students through the classes.”
He and is his wife, Coila, have been married for 47 years, have three
adult children and plan to remain in Grand Rapids.
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COASTLINE STUDIOS © 2008

BUILD A LIFE THAT MATTERS CAMPUS NEWS WINTER 2014 – REFLECT
campus news
ELDERS WINS 500
SEASON OPENER MARKS HIS LATEST MILESTONE
Kim Elders couldn’t have asked for a better way to start the men’s basketball season. The
coach of Cornerstone University began his 21st season on Nov. 5 with his 500th win as the
Golden Eagles defeated Grace Bible College, 100-74.
“Winning my 500th game is exciting,” said Elders, who was treated to a postgame
celebration including a banner held by the team to recognize the achievement. “I want to
give God all the glory for what he has allowed me to accomplish at Cornerstone.”
Since taking over the program in 1993, Elders’ teams have averaged 25 victories per season.
Five of his teams have recorded 30-plus victories, including national championship teams
in 1999 (37-3) and 2011 (34-4). Elders has also guided his teams to three other Final Fours
(2001, 2002, 2003) and three Elite 8s (05, 07 and 10). His 26 national tournament victories
ranks third all-time in the NAIA DII.
Reprinted, with permission, from MLive (by Pete Wallner). For complete story, visit mlive.com.
NEW BUILDING, NEW CONVENIENCE
PGS RECEIVES $4 MILLION FACILITY UPGRADE
Cornerstone University’s Professional & Graduate Studies program will open
a newly renovated facility on March 3 with 22,000 square feet, seven new
classrooms, offices for admissions and financial aid and space for anticipated
growth.
The 300 East Beltline property will allow all PGS services to be located in one
building to give students greater convenience.
“We have experienced healthy growth in our PGS programs, especially in Grand
Rapids,” said Cornerstone University Provost Rick Ostrander.
MATTHEWS AUDITORIUM RENOVATED
CHANGES PROVIDE STUDENT PERFORMERS WITH
PREMIER VENUE
Cornerstone University’s Matthews Auditorium, located in the Wood Seminary Building,
is being transformed into a primary venue for performing arts, and for enhanced audio
production learning opportunities.
The project, expected to be completed this winter, will reopen with CU theatre’s
performance of “Little Women,” Feb. 14 – 22.
Upgrades include aerial clouds hanging from the ceiling and shells on stage directing
the music outward toward the audience; baffles on both sides of the auditorium walls
for balanced sound; and panels in the back of the room that can be opened or closed
to expand or deaden the sound. For a list of music and theatre performances, visit
www.cornerstone.edu/university-events-calendar.
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WINTER 2014 – REFLECT CAMPUS NEWS CORNERSTONE UNIVERSITY ALUMNI JOURNAL
CHRIST CHAPEL BREAKS GROUND
CAMPAIGN UNDERWAY TO RESOURCE A NEW GENERATION OF INFLUENCERS
With growing enrollment and strategic opportunities to
maximize Cornerstone University’s capacity to graduate
influencers for Christ, the school is expanding and adding
physical facilities that relate directly to the success of its
mission. A $23 million fundraising campaign – titled CU
INFLUENCE – is well underway toward bringing these
projects to fruition.
CU INFLUENCE, with $17 million already raised, will a)
build a chapel where the campus community can worship;
b) expand Communication and Media Division facilities;
and c) expand and renovate the Music Division facilities.
NEW CHAPEL WILL OPEN IN FALL 2015
In January, construction officially began on the new
1,475-seat chapel, located just east of the Gainey
Conference Center.
Funding of the $15 million facility is nearly complete, with
just $700,000 needed to reach the fundraising goal. All of
the expenses for the project will be covered by donors.
The design for the new chapel is highly missional. As a
Christ-centered university it will be a facility that is Christhonoring.
As such, it has been named Christ Chapel. No
other space on campus will draw worshippers to Jesus
Christ with a sense of awe, transcendence, inspiration and
intimacy.
The design of the chapel is structured to achieve a similar
effect as in ancient times when villagers would look to
the end of the marketplace and see the cathedral which
represented God’s presence in the midst of their daily
routines. Walking into the cathedral they were impressed
with a sense of presence of a majestically transcendent
God, who at the same time could be intimately
experienced.
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BUILD A LIFE THAT MATTERS CAMPUS NEWS WINTER 2014 – REFLECT
To emphasize the fact that the campus worships as a
community, the seating is in a round configuration, which
reflects commitment to actualize faith both vertically and
horizontally.
OPTIMIZING THE GROWING POWER OF MEDIA STUDIES
Media Studies is a highly specialized field and requires
major resources to stay on the cutting edge of the
industry. The CU INFLUENCE campaign is raising funds to
develop classroom space, a viewing theater, editing suites
and a cutting edge sound stage that will enable students
to produce media products in a context where creativity
can be nurtured and encouraged.
MUSIC FACILITIES SET FOR MAJOR RENOVATION
Music majors are investing their education in specialties
like worship arts, contemporary Christian music, classical
music performance, composing and song writing.
Cornerstone University graduates promise to make a
strategic contribution to the church and world through
their gifts and talents.
To adequately support this aspect of the CU mission, plans
call for the construction of new and expanded practice
suites, rehearsal space for worship teams and small
ensembles, as well as faculty offices and teaching space.
For more on the new chapel, photos from its recent
groundbreaking ceremony and on how you can participate
in CU INFLUENCE, visit cornerstone.edu/chapel-project.
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1950s
WILLIAM BRICKEY, JR. (’57) passed away May 12, 2013. He trained with the Standard
Oil Company and owned and successfully operated three service stations in Grand
Rapids. He served faithfully at Berean Baptist Church for more than 60 years with his
wife, Nancy, who preceded him in death in 2008. He is survived by three children, 11
grandchildren and 22 great grandchildren. ( PHOTO 1 )
1960s
DARWYN HASSERT (’67) recently published a book, The Bible: Perfect and Practical,
Expository Messages from Psalm 119. ( PHOTO 2 )
1970s
ALLEN ARMINTROUT (B.R.E ’70) passed away on Dec. 1, 2013. He lived in Moline, Mich.
most of his life. He was active in the deaf community and involved in the ministry to the
deaf at Heritage Baptist Church. ( PHOTO 3 )
THOMAS FARR (’74) authored, Destination: Tribulation & Beyond, published in 2011 by
Tate Publishing. ( PHOTO 4 )
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RICHARD DENIG (’74) passed away on Sept. 11, 2013. He proudly served in the U.S. Army. Richard also served in pastoral ministry for more
than 20 years at churches in Michigan, Wisconsin and North Carolina. He is survived by his wife, Hazel, two sons and three grandchildren.
(PHOTO 5)
JOE MYERS (M.DIV ’75) plans to retire in May 2014 after 20 years of pastoral ministry in New Jersey and Arizona, and 14 years as an
English teacher for Mesa Public Schools. After retirement, Joe plans to continue as an online English instructor for MPS, travel, volunteer at
church and spend time with his wife (Jean) and family. (PHOTO 8)
PHILLIP FIELDS (B.R.E ’75) passed away on July 3, 2013. He is survived by his wife, Suzanna, two sons and seven grandchildren.
TIMOTHY (B.A. ’76) and MICHELE (B.A. ’77) COLE have been at Amazing Grace Bible Church in St. Petersburg, Fla. for 23 years, where
Tim serves as the teaching pastor. Their oldest son, Jared, graduated from law school in May, 2013; Zachary is pursuing a doctorate at the
University of Edinburgh and Seth is pursuing a law degree. (PHOTO 6)
JERRY JENNEX (B.A. ’77) served for 16 years as public school superintendent in Frankfort and Capac, Michigan. He now serves as
superintendent of Globe Unified School District in Globe, Ariz.
1980s
THOMAS DAY (M.DIV. ’80) retired in June, 2013 after serving 31 years as a Chaplain in the U.S. Army. His last assignment was in
Heidelberg, Germany. (PHOTO 7)
KIMBERLY (WILLIAMS) SHELTON (A.S. ’83) passed away on April 17, 2013. She was an active member of Fellowship Baptist Church in
East China Township. She is survived by her husband, Dan, and two children.
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JIM CONNELLY (B.A. ’85) was featured in the March 2013 issue of Southwest Art magazine. Some of his original illustrations have been
shown across the country in places like the National Baseball Hall of Fame, the Norman Rockwell Museum and the Society of Illustrators.
(PHOTO 9)
1990s
JEREMY ALAN ERVIN (B.A. ’93) completed his Ph.D. in science education at Ohio State University in 2003. In August 2013 he became the
inaugural dean of the School of Education at Cedarville University. (PHOTO 10)
CHRISTINA (ZAHN) STANLEY (B.A. ’95) completed her Ph.D. in education at California State University in May 2013.
HANS WALTERS (B.A. ’96) is now a fourth grade teacher at NorthPointe Christian School in Grand Rapids, Mich. (PHOTO 11)
DAN (B.A. ’99, M.DIV. ’05) and STEPHANIE (MANN, B.A. ’07) KERSEY are the proud parents of Charis Irene, born on April 15, 2013.
(PHOTO 12)
KEN (B.A. ’99) and SUMMER (BEDFORD, ’99) MUNGLE announce the birth of their son, Maxwell Isaiah, born July 24, 2013. The Mungle
family is preparing to move to Thailand to serve the educational needs of the children of missionary families in that region.
RACHEL (LANNING, B.A. ’99) and Matthew SAWATZKY welcomed Maria Elizabeth to their family on Sept. 21, 2013. ‘Mia’ is the little
princess to her three older brothers, Micah, Caleb and Ben. (PHOTO 13)
2000s
SUSIE (DOCTOR) SWAB (B.A. ’01) and her husband, Nick, welcomed their daughter, Liberty Grace, into their family on July 23, 2013. (PHOTO 14)
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SUELANGE (ELIE) MYERS (’01) published her first book in May 2013, Radical Living and Giving. In this book she draws from personal
experience to give a detailed study of Scripture passages relating to money and Christian stewardship. The book is published by Westbow
Press, a division of Thomas Nelson Publishing. (PHOTO 15)
KRYSTA (OECHSLE) OSWEILER (B.A. ’01) and her husband Ryan announce the birth of their son, Carter Daniel, born on July 12, 2013.
Carter joins older brother Tyler, 3. (PHOTO 16)
BECKY HUBERTY (B.A. ’02) recently published her first book, Dust to Flesh: The Beginning of the End. Her second book is expected to be
released in 2014. (PHOTO 17)
CASSIE (DOYLE) BLANCHARD (B.A. ’03) and her husband, Jeremy, welcomed their daughter, Linnea Jane, into their family on May 22,
2013. (PHOTO 18)
JON (B.A. ’03) and Sarah DEPHOUSE are celebrating a new season of life. Jon was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of cancer
in the fall of 2012. There is “no evidence of disease” after surgery, multiple rounds of chemotherapy, and other treatments. Caleb and
Josiah cheered for their dad this past October as he biked 500 miles, just one year after diagnosis, to raise money for pediatric cancer
research. (PHOTO 19)
JULIE LAVIGNE (’03) passed away on Sept. 11, 2013. Julie was a member of Messiah Lutheran Church and was a secretary at Homer United
Methodist Church. She enjoyed spending time with her family and church family, and is survived by her husband and two children.
JURAJ (B.S. ‘03) and STACY (COURTRIGHT, B.A. ‘03) ZAHATNANSKY recently returned to the U.S. after Juraj completed medical school
in Prague, Czech Republic. They welcomed their son, Finn Stephan, on April 10, 2013. Stacy is pursuing a master’s degree in education at
Michigan State University while Juraj is completing his medical residency in Kalamazoo, Mich. (PHOTO 20)
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KRISTY TAYLOR (M.S. ’03) completed her Ph.D. in higher education from the University of Toledo in 2012. She is currently a full-time
faculty member in the College of Business and Innovations at the University of Toledo. She and her husband, MATT TAYLOR (M.S. ’03),
recently published a book, Pen to Paper: Helping you Build a Life that Matters. (PHOTO 21)
BEN THOMPSON (B.A. ’03) serves as the president of Thompson Remodeling, a design/build residential remodeling firm based in
Grand Rapids, Mich. Thompson Remodeling was the recipient of the 2013 Guildmaster Award from GuildQuality, a customer satisfaction
surveying company. (PHOTO 22)
LISA O’BRIEN (B.A. ’03) is currently living in Africa, working with Juna Amagara Ministries (JAM) and Amagara Bible Institute of
Discipleship and Evangelism (ABIDE), a residential mentoring/discipleship program for young women.
AMELIA (PARLETTE) RHODES (B.S. ’03) recently published her first book, Isn’t it Time for a Coffee Break? Doing life together in an allabout-me
type of world, with Barbour Publishing. Filled with humor and Bible-based encouragement, this book offers a fresh perspective
on relationships.
SARAH (FREESE) OAKLIEF (B.A. ’04) and her husband, Gregory, celebrate the birth of their son, Mason Michael Vance, born on
Jan. 5, 2013.
MARGIE (PELZ, B.S. ’05) and Walter SPEES announce the birth of their daughter, Joanna Dorothy Jane, born Oct. 6, 2013. (PHOTO 23)
REBECCA (HOESLI) GALLARDO (B.A. ’06, M.A. ’11) and her husband Luis announce the birth of their second child, Anabeth Rae, born on
July 31, 2013. Rebecca was recently promoted to bilingual facilitator at the East Aurora School District 131 in Illinois.
BRODIE (B.S. ’06) and MEGHAN (JONES, B.A.’ 10) HOCK were married on July 6, 2013. (PHOTO 24)
CHRISTINE ROZELLE (B.S. ’06) was promoted to assistant vice president at Fifth Third Bancorp in Cincinnati, Ohio.
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STEFANIE WISE, M.D. (B.S. ’06) completed her residency in emergency medicine at Detroit Receiving Hospital. She will practice
emergency medicine at the Detroit Medical Center and pursue further training with a fellowship in Emergency Medical systems and
disaster medicine.
ANDREW HEYD (M.A. ’07, TH.M. ’11) is moving to Manila, Philippines in May 2014 to teach biblical studies full time at the International
Graduate School of Leadership. (PHOTO 25)
ZACH VANDUINEN (B.A. ’07) accepted a position as athletic director at Lansing Christian School in fall 2013. (PHOTO 30)
JACKIE (CRUZAN) BURNS (B.A. ’08) and her husband, David, welcomed their first child, Kaylee Ruth, into their family on May 6, 2013.
(PHOTO 27)
JIM (M.B.A. ’10) and ASHLEY (NICHOLS, B.A. ’09) VANBEMMELEN were married on July 19, 2013. (PHOTO 28)
EMMA ROSAUER (B.S. ‘09), Hunger Response Director at Access of West Michigan, led efforts in Kent County to eliminate Hunger
through the 2013 food drive. This food drive united 75 pantries and hundreds of congregations, businesses, schools and individuals in the
fight against hunger. (PHOTO 31)
JAMES (B.A. ’09) and HANNAH (TRAVIS, B.A. ’09) WALLACE celebrate the birth of their daughter, Brielle Hope, born on May 3, 2013.
(PHOTO 29)
2010s
BEN (B.S. ’10) and MELODY (POLASEK, B.A. ’11) BUTTERS were married on Aug. 24, 2013. (PHOTO 26)
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MATTHEW (B.A. ’10) and CAITLIN (WHITMAN, B.A. ’12) HALLER announce the birth of their son, Jackson Matthew, born on July 10, 2013.
(PHOTO 32)
MEGAN TIBBITS (B.MUS. ’10) won the Female Singer/Songwriter of the Year at the 2013 LA Music Awards. Megan is one of the final four
nominees for Best Christian/Gospel Artist for the Artists in Music Awards. (PHOTO 33)
LESLEE FRITZ (B.S. ’11) recently accepted a position as Corporate Account Executive at Traverse City Tourism. (PHOTO 34)
KRISTY KIEDA (M.B.A. ’11) was recently promoted to Feed Office Manager at Caledonia Farmers Elevator in Caledonia, Mich.
ANNA (OVERWAY, B.A. ‘12) and Kellen SOUTHWELL were married on Aug. 3, 2013. (PHOTO 35)
RICHARD STRAIT (B.S. ’12) was ordained on July 28, 2013. He and his wife, Karen, founded Hope for Veterans and Families. This ministry
supports veterans and their families dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder.
MARK FILA (B.S. ’12) biked across America with a friend in fall 2013 to raise funds to build a freshwater well in Guatemala through a
partnership with Living Water International. (PHOTO 36)
JOY (BESLEY, B.A. ’13) and Ryan GARVELINK were married on Jan. 5, 2013. (PHOTO 37)
JOSH (B.A. ’13) and KATIE (FOX, B.A. ’12) WEBB were married on June 16, 2013. (PHOTO 38)
Share events in your life, including answers to prayer, professional accomplishments, books authored, albums released, graduate degrees or awards,
honors received, additions to your family, or alumni to honor. WWW.CORNERSTONE.EDU/SHARE-NEWS
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Winter 2014 | Cornerstone University Alumni Journal | Reflect