In a time when society is questioning the intrinsic value of higher education, we must critically evaluate the transformative role a college degree plays in the lives of young people. Skeptics argue that the costs, both in time and financial expense, are greater than the benefits of a degree. They point to mounting student debt and offer examples of successful entrepreneurs who bypassed the traditional education route, asserting that the real world offers a more valuable curriculum. While these objections may have some merit in isolated cases, they don't paint the complete picture and are dangerously short-sighted. Even the argument that college graduates will earn significantly more over their lifetime is an incomplete measure of the true value of a degree, especially one from a place like Cedarville University. Proverbs 4:7 tells us, “The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom, and whatever you get, get insight.” A well-rounded education rooted in a biblical worldview — like students receive at Cedarville — not only equips students for vocational success but also nurtures their spiritual growth. The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Romans, writes, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect” (Rom. 12:2). A biblically faithful education aims precisely at this transformative experience, challenging students to critically engage with the world around them while standing firm upon the authority and sufficiency of Scripture. The social and networking aspects of college life offer students the chance to form lasting relationships and to learn the virtues of teamwork, discipline, and servantleadership — all essential skills in today's workforce and in community building, echoing the biblical principle of “iron sharpening iron” (Prov. 27:17). In this issue of Cedarville Magazine, we’ll explore these ideas and more. You’ll read how our faculty, in partnership with our Career Services team, prepares students for success. You’ll discover the economic arguments for a college degree and learn ways to make education more affordable. You’ll be encouraged by how Cedarville graduates are thriving in the marketplace. (Their 98.7% job and graduate school placement rate affirms that success!) And you’ll hear from some of our best spokespeople — parents — who will explain why Cedarville was more than worth the investment for their families. The real value of a Cedarville University degree transcends economic benefits. In a society yearning for both innovation and moral clarity, a Cedarville education — marked by academic excellence and intentional discipleship — offers an irreplaceable foundation that equips graduates to make an eternal impact for the Kingdom. What a privilege to serve King Jesus in this time and place! In Christ, Thomas White President cedarville.edu/president @DrThomasWhite facebook.com/DrThomasWhite instagram.com/drthomaswhite linkedin.com/in/jthomaswhite SPRING 2024 Volume 12 Issue 1 Editor Janice (Warren) Supplee ’86 Managing Editor Rachel (Rathbun) Benefiel ’23 Creative Director Chad Jackson ’05 Art Director and GraphicDesigner Craig Salisbury Photographer Scott Huck Copy Editor Michele (Cummings) Solomon ’91 ADMINISTRATION President Thomas White Senior Advisor to the President Loren Reno ’70 Chief of Staff Zach Bowden Vice President for Academics Thomas Mach ’88 Vice President for Advancement Will Smallwood Vice President for Athletics Christopher Cross Vice President for Business and Chief Financial Officer Christopher Sohn Vice President for Enrollment Management Scott Van Loo ’98 Vice President for Marketing and Communications Janice (Warren) Supplee ’86 Vice President for Student Life and Christian Ministries Jonathan Wood OUR MISSION Cedarville University transforms lives through excellent education and intentional discipleship in submission to biblical authority. OUR VISION For the Word of God and the Testimony of Jesus Christ, Cedarville Magazine is published spring, summer, and fall and mailed free of charge to alumni and supporters of Cedarville University. 1-800-CEDARVILLE • cedarville.edu Direct inquiries and address changes to: Cedarville Magazine Cedarville University 251 N. Main St., Cedarville, OH 45314 cedarville.edu/magazine magazine@cedarville.edu 1-888-CEDARVILLE READ ONLINE! Visit cedarville.edu/magazineSP24 on your computer or mobile device. PRESIDENT'S PERSPECTIVE
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