New Beginnings

Mid July brought change to our household. Not that it wasn't enough to move into fatherhood in April, on July 11, 2006 I began a new position back at Azusa Pacific University. I am the Director of Student Success, which oversees the new student orientation and Alpha program, professor of the first year class called "Beginnings", coordinates retention and engagement efforts and the Omega program, and partners with the Strengths Academy, supervising undergraduate 'Strengths Counselors and Leaders'.

The title alone can sound a bit challenging being that I am responsible for the students overall matriculation through the university. It is an exciting role to say the least because it is directly in line with areas in student affairs that I believe to be my calling! Additionally, it is somewhat of a homecoming in that APU is where I did my graduate work, and this office is where I worked for the two year period from 1998-2000. Many of the same colleagues are here today, making for a comfortable transition.

Interestingly enough, I wasn't even looking to change jobs. I heard about this position from a few people close to APU over Christmas break. Through much prayer and discussion with Tara, I decided I should not close a door prematurely. After my final interview in April, I new that I wanted the job and felt God calling me to APU. In May I received an offer and negotiated a July start date.

My time at Pepperdine was filled with lasting memories and I built relationships that I hope will be life long. I know that God had His hand in us moving to Malibu and can already see the learnings from my previous position being directly applicable to my new one. My four years at Pepperdine were a wonderful time of growth, self exploration, and support. I hold Pepperdine University in the highest regard and it was not only a great place of employment, but felt like a close family.

As with any change, there is a little anxiety, but honestly this one comes as easy as any move I have made. I have been telling people that it feels like a 'homecoming'. It is nice to be back at dear ole APU. Not only did I find my career and calling here, I found my wife. APU has always held a special place in my heart and I am so excited to be able to have an impact on the students. We decided that for the first 2 years, I would commute. The drive is roughly an hour long (the first commute I have really had), but is worth it simply because Pepperdine is being so gracious to Tara in relation to Caleb! Also, we are still around dear friends on campus, which makes this transition a little easier as well.

As I look ahead I know that I am where I am supposed to be. This is not only a logical next step, but right in line with my calling. I can only hope that the next 8 years of my professional life will be as fruitful as the first. Coming full circle back to APU is a blessing.