TO THE GLORY OF GOD ALONE FALL 2025 Volume 13 Issue 3
MORE THAN I COULD IMAGINE 02 THOMAS WHITE | Cedarville's president shares his journey from doubt to trust during Cedarville's One Thousand Days Transformed campaign. CEDARVILLE TRANSFORMED 04 One Thousand Days Transformed has truly touched every student and every inch of campus. Celebrate God's faithfulness as told through stats, maps, and milestones. ALL HIS HAND PROVIDED 14 ALYSON (SCHROLL) PUNZI ’19 | A member of Cedarville’s Advancement team shares her behind-the-scenes perspective on the quiet, faithful work that made One Thousand Days Transformed a reality. CHANGED BY THE JOURNEY 24 RICH STRATTON | Funded and prayed over by faithful friends, Global Outreach (GO) trips bring eye-opening transformation in the lives of those who go — both students and the faculty/staff who guide them. A STRONGER TOMORROW 30 For Dr. Thomas White, the University’s success is an opportunity to steward God’s gifts now and provide for generations of Cedarville students in the future. TO THE GLORY OF GOD ALONE 02 24 18 FOREVER CHANGED 18 NICHOLAS CARRINGTON ’10 | The gifts of faithful donors make moments of profound spiritual growth at Cedarville possible for students like Reyna Golson '26 and Hugo Cerrato '27. At the end of One Thousand Days Transformed: The Campaign for Cedarville, Cedarville Magazine is looking back over years of prayerful planning and faithful generosity. Campus has changed, and nearly every part of the student experience looks different because of campaign giving. As you read this issue, we hope you will join us in praising the God whose plans surpassed even our grandest dreams! “ Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.” Ephesians 3:20–21
Editor Janice (Warren) Supplee ’86 Managing Editor Rachel (Rathbun) Benefiel ’23 Creative Director Chad Jackson ’05 Photographer Scott Huck Art Director and Graphic Designer Craig Salisbury ADMINISTRATION President Thomas White Senior Advisor to the President Loren Reno ’70 Chief of Staff Zach Bowden Vice President for Academics Tom Mach ’88 Vice President for Advancement Will Smallwood Vice President for Athletics Chris Cross Vice President for Business and Chief Financial Officer Chris Sohn Vice President for Enrollment Management Scott Van Loo ’98 Vice President for Marketing and Communications Janice (Warren) Supplee ’86 Vice President for Strategic Initiatives Bob Lutz ’01 Vice President for Student Life and Christian Ministries Jon 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 1-800-CEDARVILLE READ ONLINE! Visit cedarville.edu/magazineFA25 on your computer or mobile device. CHAPEL NOTES 34 Enjoy encouraging teaching from Alistair Begg and Fall Bible Conference speaker Dr. Jimmy Scroggins — plus biblically faithful relationship and sexuality resources. YELLOW JACKET SPORTS 36 Read about Cedarville’s newest Hall of Fame inductees and enjoy some quick-hit updates from Athletics at Cedarville! JACKETS FOR LIFE 38 Read about Cedarville’s 2025 Alumni Award recipients, stay up to date with upcoming events, and remember former faculty, alumni, and friends who have recently passed away. IN EVERY ISSUE CAMPUS NEWS 42 From new students and buildings to new books and technologies, read about some of Cedarville’s major updates this fall! BETWEEN THE LINES 47 Solve a campaign-themed puzzle and take a quick reader survey to let us know how Cedarville Magazine can serve you well! IN CLOSING: FAITHFULNESS ON DISPLAY 48 WILL SMALLWOOD | How can one gift make a lasting difference? With One Thousand Days Transformed in the rearview mirror, Vice President for Advancement Dr. Will Smallwood reflects on the impact of individual donors and single gifts on what God accomplished through the campaign. 34 42 1
BY THOMAS WHITE MORE THAN I COULD IMAGINE On Friday, August 8, Dr. White dedicated the Bolthouse Academic Center alongside University faculty and staff. Learn more about the dedication on page 46. 2
Ephesians 3:20–21 states, “Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.” This verse captures my heart as I reflect on the completion of the One Thousand Days Transformed campaign at Cedarville. When we began identifying the University’s needs and developing our 10-year campus master plan, I had doubts. I wasn’t sure we could raise even $80 million, which would have set our record for campaign giving. But through this journey, I learned a profound lesson in trusting God. What began as an $80 million potential goal grew to $100 million and was increased to $125 million by the time we launched publicly. The goal was eventually raised to $175 million as our enrollment and costs increased. And now, at the close of this campaign, we rejoice that God has provided more than $200 million. That is truly “far more abundantly than all that we ask or think." DOUBTS ANSWERED Throughout this process, I witnessed God's hand at work in remarkable ways. One standout moment came early in our “Transformed Tour,” where we traveled around the country holding events. I met an alumnus who desired to give sacrificially to the campaign. It wasn’t a large gift in comparison, but the amount wasn’t the point. His passion for and dedication to supporting God’s work at Cedarville profoundly impacted me and began to soften my doubt. We did, of course, receive major gifts — each one a testimony to God’s sovereign provision. He stirred the hearts of donors to give His resources to His work, investing in the lives of His students. We simply provided the opportunity for others to join us in preparing the next generation to stand for the Word of God and the Testimony of Jesus Christ. HE WILL PROVIDE So many of you gave — and many gave more than once. I’m humbled and even a little embarrassed to look back on my initial doubts. But that’s the reason I’m writing this. I imagine you may be facing your own daunting challenges. If so, let me testify to what I’ve experienced again and again: God is faithful. We can trust Him. Whatever lies ahead, know that God can do far more than you could ever ask or imagine. He has the power, and He alone deserves the glory. Thank you to every one of you who prayed, gave, and supported this effort. The glory belongs to the Lord, and the success to all of you who joined us on this incredible journey. We count our days so that we may live with wisdom. We know: Every Student Matters. Every Day Matters. Every Gift Matters. OUR NEXT STEP OF FAITH Now that the campaign is complete, we will take a brief pause, then begin praying and planning for what comes next. Please pray for God to give us wisdom from above and for new ministry partners to join the extraordinary work God is doing on Cedarville University’s campus. To the one true God who is able, we give all glory and praise forever. Amen. Thomas White is President of Cedarville University. He earned his PhD in systematic theology from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. Thank you to every one of you who prayed, gave, and supported this effort. The glory belongs to the Lord, and the success to all of you who joined us on this incredible journey. 3
CEDARVILLE TRANSFORMED CELEBRATING GOD'S GENEROUS PROVISION On October 3, 2025, the Dixon Ministry Center chapel overflowed with students, faculty, staff, alumni, and guests for Cedarville’s annual State of the University address. In a moment of joyful celebration, Cedarville President Thomas White announced that One Thousand Days Transformed: The Campaign for Cedarville had exceeded its $175 million goal, reaching more than $205.8 million in gifts and commitments. Applause erupted, confetti filled the air, and the chapel closed with voices joined in praise to God for His abundant faithfulness and the generosity of more than 26,000 donors. These gifts are already transforming lives and shaping Cedarville’s future. In the following pages, you'll see how this historic campaign is impacting every corner of campus. 4
WATCH THE STATE OF THE UNIVERSITY ADDRESS: TOTAL RAISED $205,866,509 TOTAL GIFTS 85,915 TOTAL DONORS 26,149 5
To see Cedarville's transformation, all you need to do is walk around campus. You'll see new residence halls built to house a growing student body and new academic centers to match the quality of our world-class faculty. New student life spaces provide contexts for Godhonoring community — the kinds of friendships that last a lifetime. But Expanding Our Capacity goes deeper than just a changing campus silhouette. When we zoom inside these beautiful facilities to the individual rooms — and the individual students seated inside — a whole new perspective unfolds. EXPANDED OUR CAPACITY BY THE NUMBERS 44 new classrooms where students learn how they can use their calling to serve the Kingdom 234 new residence hall rooms for cultivating community with laughter, tears, and heartfelt prayer 122 offices where grading and lesson prep meet mentorship and Gospel conversations 175+ classes per semester helping students build careers from the cross up 6,866 Chick-fil-A meals delivered during a time of crisis to students in need 13,000+ books in the Wiersbe library for students who want to follow in his legacy Thousands of Stinger selfies with students who are excited to call Cedarville home REVIEWING OUR CAMPAIGN PRIORITIES 6
MINIMIZED STUDENT DEBT AND MAXIMIZED AFFORDABILITY BY THE NUMBERS 100 new scholarships founded to support students 667 students aided by new scholarships in the past year $1,000–$3,000: Often the difference between a student completing their degree or leaving Cedarville $3,588.75 average donor-funded scholarship amount for 2025–26 $352,000 given to the God Provides Scholarship in the year immediately following the COVID pandemic to help students continue their education $18,195,902.17 in endowed scholarship funds raised to continue students’ support long into the future At Cedarville, we often say that every student who wants a Cedarville education should be able to afford one. While college is still a significant financial investment, by the grace of God and the generosity of our donors, that goal is closer than ever! Many donors chose to give to scholarships to show God’s provision to students in need. To the students on the receiving end, these scholarships are more than just a lifeline — they’re a reminder that they are supported by a global body of believers serving God alongside them. 7
You would be hardpressed to find any part of the campus experience that this campaign did not affect in some way! Gifts have funded new endowments for chapel, helped start in-demand academic programs, supported Yellow Jacket Athletics, and empowered thousands of students to share the Gospel on Global Outreach trips. TRANSFORMED LIVES IN AND OUT OF THE CLASSROOM BY THE NUMBERS CHAPEL About 150 chapel services per year Giving to chapel helps provide for first-rate speakers to share the Word with the Cedarville student body every morning. GLOBAL OUTREACH 246 teams traveled around the world to hold clinics, play sports, support church planting, and share the Gospel 20 trips planted new churches 95 destinations around the world 2,397 students participated 316 faculty and staff members led trips $4,944,092.28 given to GO trips ATHLETICS In addition to the Callan Athletic and Academic Expansion, gifts to Cedarville Athletics have helped upgrade our Yellow Jackets’ equipment, courts, and fields! 2,000-square-foot new team room 2,750-square-foot varsity weight room 12 complete Sorinex workout stations 2 new graduate programs — PA studies and athletic training — housed in Callan 8
BY THE NUMBERS $16,520,225 in future gifts committed $6.14 million planned gift, the largest in Cedarville’s history, given by anonymous donors $1,000,000 GO leader endowment created to enable qualified faculty and staff members to lead students on missions experiences around the world $1,000,000 chapel endowment providing for the chapel speakers who enhance our students’ understanding of the richness of God’s Word $200,000 discipleship endowment supporting oncampus ministries and discipleship opportunities The final pillar of the campaign looked ahead — ensuring Cedarville would remain strong for generations to come. Through planned gifts and new endowments, donors helped secure a future where students’ children and grandchildren can experience the same rigorous, biblically faithful education. Because of this investment, Cedarville is positioned to continue providing an excellent education grounded in biblical truth and committed to transforming lives for Christ for decades to come. PREPARED FOR THE FUTURE WHAT IS AN ENDOWMENT? An endowment is a sustainable gift that can keep supporting students for decades! When you give an endowed gift, the principal amount is invested, and the earnings from that investment continue to support the area you gave to for years to come. You can learn more about endowments in the interview with Dr. White on page 30. 9
GOLF CLUBHOUSE STINGER STATUE CIVIL ENGINEERING CENTER SCHARNBERG BUSINESS AND COMMUNICATION CENTER CHICK-FIL-A® DINING CENTER MURDOCH AND DIEHL JOHNSON RESIDENCE HALLS AND PHIPPS CENTER 10
WOOD HALL SOCCER FIELD PRESS BOX CALLAN ATHLETIC AND ACADEMIC EXPANSION BOLTHOUSE ACADEMIC CENTER (under construction with 2027 planned open date) WARREN AND BETTY WIERSBE LIBRARY AND READING ROOM (inside the Center for Biblical and Theological Studies) Every part of Cedarville’s campus tells a story of God’s faithfulness. From residence halls filled with life-onlife discipleship to state-of-the-art classrooms where professors and students pursue excellence together, each new space stands as a visible marker of transformation. Through the One Thousand Days Transformed campaign, the landscape of Cedarville has dramatically changed. Walking the sidewalks around campus, it is easy to see how God has provided for far more than bricks and mortar. We praise the Lord for a campus dedicated to equipping the next generation for the Word of God and the Testimony of Jesus Christ. This campus map shows the incredible impact of the campaign on the University's facilities. CAMPUS TRANSFORMED 11
My experiences at Cedarville as an undergraduate student, an employee, and a graduate student transformed my life. In serving as a member of the Advancement team during One Thousand Days Transformed, I was privileged to see the amazing generosity of the Cedarville community. This generosity inspired me to be generous and support many of the campaign projects myself. While none of my gifts were large dollar amounts, I never doubted that they were significant to the work happening at Cedarville, both on campus physically and in students’ lives every single day. I am proud to be a Yellow Jacket and a donor to this historic campaign! Jonathan Lyons ’17, MABL ’22 We're very thankful we have the opportunity to invest in what God is doing at Cedarville University. Our son is a Cedarville graduate, and his time at Cedarville helped prepare him for a life of Kingdom service. The scholarship fund we created is our way of investing in God's Kingdom and thanking Him for His many blessings. Tom and Chris Cutler We love to give to Cedarville because the Lord has commanded us to make disciples. The strong discipleship happening on Cedarville University’s campus is both inspiring and beautiful. Our donations strengthen a school that is committed to the exponential impact these disciples will have throughout their lives! We believe that’s a great investment strategy for the Kingdom of God! Anonymous Donors As Cedarville alumni, it’s a joy for us to give back through Cedarville Athletics, especially cross country and track. We see ourselves as Gospel patrons who are excited to support the next generation of student-athletes as they compete and grow in their faith. It’s inspiring to watch what God is doing on the athletic fields at Cedarville University for His glory, and we’re grateful to play a small part in that work. Steve ’97 and Holly (Sorensen) Houg ’99 It’s such a blessing to keep supporting Cedarville’s One Thousand Days Transformed campaign! When we are on campus, we can feel God at work in the lives of the young adults, and it’s awesome to know we’re playing a small part in their spiritual and academic journey. We’re always so proud to share that both of our kids graduated from Cedarville University and often encourage others to check it out. Brad and Susan Waayenberg EVERY DONOR MATTERS Perspectives Shared by Faithful Friends 12
We are deeply grateful the Lord led our family to Cedarville. Given Cedarville’s excellent academics and strong relationship with the NSA, our daughter received amazing opportunities in the field of cybersecurity. When we learned that the SBCC was going to house the Center for the Advancement of Cybersecurity, we knew we had to support the facility. It is so rewarding to invest in whatever way possible in what the Lord is doing at Cedarville! A Grateful Cedarville Family The best investment yields eternal returns. Cedarville’s One Thousand Days Transformed campaign exemplifies this. Cedarville equips students with exceptional education on a biblical foundation, preparing them for eternal impact across the nation and globe. As supporters of the women’s soccer program while our daughter played and beyond, we have witnessed athletes spiritually influence opponents and teammates while excelling athletically and academically at the national level. We chose to support scholarships and Cedarville’s vision for world-class facilities. Larry ’92 and Kate (Rockey) Gross ’91 We give because we recognize that Cedarville is unique and increasingly rare among Christian universities: It is strongly and unapologetically grounded in biblical truth. It’s a privilege to partner with Cedarville as they equip students to be not only leading professionals but, more importantly, to reflect the light of Christ in the workplace and communities He leads them to. We want Cedarville to continue to be the best for our own kids and generations to come! Naseem ’99 and Jami Qussar Having been personally impacted by Cedarville, we desire to invest in endeavors that create eternal value. Cedarville not only further prepared us to humbly live out the Gospel of Jesus Christ in our marriage, family, church, work, and neighborhood but is now preparing our children to do the same. We long to see others impacted by Cedarville's mission for generations to come. Andy ’97 and Linda (Gilbert) Kuyper ’98 Even the smallest gift can be multiplied by God for His glory. It brings us joy to give knowing Cedarville University stands firmly on Christ and His Word. We give in faith, trusting Him to use whatever we offer to accomplish His purposes. Jason ’98 and Courtenay (Shoaff) Atwell ’98 We are extremely grateful to the Lord, the Board of Trustees, and Dr. White for Cedarville University's unwavering commitment to the Word of God and the Testimony of Jesus Christ. We’re especially thankful for how intentionally Cedarville encourages spiritual growth both inside and outside the classroom. It’s a privilege to be able to play even a small role in what God is doing in the lives of so many students. Jeff ’78 and Criss (Wilson) Reep ’82 13
BEHIND THE SCENES OF ONE THOUSAND DAYS TRANSFORMED BY ALYSON (SCHROLL) PUNZI ’19 ALL HIS HAND PROVIDED 14
15
For the past three years, I’ve been a part of Cedarville’s Advancement team, watching God demonstrate His faithfulness repeatedly throughout the One Thousand Days Transformed campaign — specifically through the work of His faithful servants. We believe that nothing is outside of God’s sovereign will. Sometimes, the truth of God’s sovereignty means that we must hold the tension of God’s providence and the mystery of this life with open hands. He does not always give us eyes to see how He is weaving the threads of our circumstances for His glory and our good. But sometimes, God does allow us to witness the beautiful ways He's working for His glory. Here are a few of those moments I’ve been reflecting on. MOMENTS OF GRACE Throughout this campaign, God has reminded us time and time again that He is faithful. Even before the campaign officially began, God was using faithful donors to help set Cedarville on solid financial ground so that a campaign like this could be possible. Some chose to give recurring gifts to Cedarville. Month after month, they made a conscious sacrifice, faithfully giving as the Lord led. God used this beautiful picture of trust to make a real impact in students’ lives and to prepare the ground on which this campaign would be built. Sometimes, God’s providence can be seen in the timing of events, even the ones we would not have planned. The public launch of the campaign was delayed by the pandemic, but the opening of Chick-fil-A, a campaign project, happened at the perfect time to help us navigate the challenges of feeding our quarantined students during that academic year. God watched over us, taking care of what we could never have known to prepare for. Other blessings came from hearing how God has worked through our students’ lives. On the evening of Giving Tuesday 2023, most of the Advancement team had gone home after a long day. Our gift processor was still in the office, making sure all the gifts from that day were recorded properly, when a student stopped by to deliver a $130,000 gift from her parents. Their daughter was learning, growing, and thriving here, and they wanted to be part of the life transformation they were seeing through her. Their meaningful gift in turn fueled other students’ life-changing 1000 Days here at Cedarville. But most of all, God has reminded us time and time again that He provides. During Homecoming 2024, Dr. White shared about his prayer that God would specifically provide funding for the last remaining building of the campaign, the new Academic Center. God answered that prayer in a way we didn’t expect. God had moved in the hearts of a donor couple to gift $15 million toward the project. These donors were already friends of Cedarville and have given generously for decades, faithfully stewarding what God has given them and continually seeking to glorify Him with their resources. We did not know that they were considering giving such a gift, but God knew. He leveraged their blessings and their desire to serve to encourage Cedarville and answer countless prayers. God brought each person of this team to Advancement at the right time to lay the foundation of these buildings where students now study, eat, and live. 16
Alyson (Schroll) Punzi ’19 serves as the Executive Assistant to the Vice President for Advancement. FAITHFUL GARDENERS In the hallway outside my office hang our team culture statements: reminders of the kind of team we hope to represent. One of those 10 statements reads, “We Are Planters and Waterers.” This goal reminds us daily that God is the one who brings the growth. He has placed us here to work and serve with excellence, knowing that growth is not our power nor our responsibility. I’ve watched this team show up every day and roll up their sleeves, planting and watering, spending themselves toward God’s purposes. When He provides the fruit, we get excited, both proud of the work and grateful for the way only God could have used it. Since the beginning of the campaign, nearly 50 Advancement staff members have come and gone, following God’s call to serve in other places. Only nine members of our current team were serving in Advancement when the campaign first launched. Even I wasn’t originally supposed to be working here, but God brought me back to Cedarville and provided exactly what I needed, both professionally and personally. Every one of my teammates is daily evidence of God’s provision in my life. God brought each person on this team to Advancement at the right time to lay the foundation of these buildings where students now study, eat, and live. God used their faithfulness to conduct research, make phone calls, plan events, draft emails, and ask alumni and friends to join us in transforming lives for the Word of God and the Testimony of Jesus Christ. OUR GIFTS FOR HIS GLORY This is also true for our entire community. God has brought hundreds of faculty and staff to Cedarville, whether for a brief time or for a lifetime. We teach lectures, manage budgets, wash dishes, coach athletes, maintain vehicles, disciple students, coordinate missions trips, and plant flowers. God uses the faithful work of an entire campus community to cultivate Cedarville into a transformative place that donors want to be a part of. None of this is an accident or coincidence. We see God’s providence in the amazing, sometimes unexpected things like milliondollar gifts, and we see His providence in the everyday faithfulness of people who simply want to honor Him with their work here at Cedarville. We respond in thanksgiving to the God who delights in using our giving of time or resources for His glory. So, if you take a walk around the lake — which you should do — I encourage you to notice all that has changed. See the buildings that weren’t here just a few short years ago. See the sidewalks leading to new areas of campus. See the students who were still in elementary or middle school when this campaign began. When you walk around campus, everything you see will remind you of the thousands of people whose generous hearts God used to support Cedarville and bring about His Kingdom, one heart at a time. We did not know that they were considering giving such a gift, but God knew. He leveraged their blessings and their desire to serve to encourage Cedarville and answer countless prayers. 17
FOREVER CHANGED Freshman year, Reyna Golson ’26 walked down the chapel aisle with thousands of singing voices shaking the floor beneath her. Dr. Thomas White, Cedarville’s president, had just given an altar call in a special worship service that much of the student body attended, even though it was voluntary. Her friend had grabbed her for support, and while Golson went with her right away, she doubted herself. “I felt so inadequate,” Golson said. “The Lord had not used me like that before.” Golson and her friend huddled together on the stage steps, yelling back and forth to hear each other over the singing, but a few minutes later, the friends embraced and wept together. When the song ended, Dr. White addressed the crowd. “We just had somebody get saved during that song. Let’s praise the Lord!” The room erupted; students shouted hallelujah and clapped, joining the angels in rejoicing over a life forever transformed. Golson remembers being overwhelmed by the moment. “It struck me: This is the most important thing. One single person among thousands giving her life to the Lord.” That night of worship continued for two hours, and while it changed Golson’s friend’s life, it also changed hers. Growing up in South Africa, she and her sisters were the only Christians in their school, and they watched as peers indulged in alcohol, drugs, and other vices. The worship culture on display at Cedarville gave Golson a different experience with her generation. “I got to see students my age so excited and on fire for the Lord. It was definitely a pivotal moment.” That kind of life transformation is at the heart of Cedarville University’s mission. BY NICHOLAS CARRINGTON ’10 18
19
Even if Hugo Cerrato ’27 never attended Cedarville as a student, the University would have had a lasting impact on him. As he neared the end of high school, Cerrato was struggling with what his future might look like. His sister was already a student at Cedarville, but paying a second tuition would be difficult for his family financially. One day, he listened online to a chapel service where Dr. Deforia Lane, a Cedarville trustee, sang a song to encourage students to entrust their plans to the Lord. The words became part of the wallpaper on Cerrato’s computer: “It's not in trying, but in trusting. It's not in running, but in resting. It's not in wondering, but in praying, that we find the strength of the Lord.” God used the song to work in his anxious heart. “I needed to hear those words,” Cerrato said. Through the kindness of donors, Cerrato was able to obtain enough financial help to attend Cedarville, where God’s work in his heart would abound. 20
A year or so later, Golson, a communication major, sat in a Theology of Worship class, wondering if she was in the right place. Her classmates were deeper into Cedarville’s music scene than she was; many were worship majors who played in chapel or on the traveling HeartSong ministry teams. She worried the class would be more about the music side of worship than the theology behind it. Her fears were quickly alleviated. Golson spent the whole semester furiously scribbling notes about the Scriptures’ teachings on the Sabbath, singing, prayer, fellowship, and other worship topics. But one day, Dr. Tom Hutchison, Professor of Educational Ministries and Applied Theology, said something that made Golson raise her hand. She needed to hear it again. “He said turning a light off when you go to bed is worship because you are trusting the Lord will continue to have control over the world and over your life as you sleep.” Golson never forgot it. “It completely altered how I think about trusting the Lord.” The lessons from that class did more than change her walk with the Lord; they inspired her to dedicate her future to Him. She hopes to use her communication skills in a ministry setting after she graduates. “ He said turning a light off when you go to bed is worship because you are trusting the Lord will continue to have control over the world and over your life as you sleep.” Golson never forgot it. “It completely altered how I think about trusting the Lord.” 21
Cerrato loved Honduras, his home country, and knew he wanted to use public service to help his people thrive. But he struggled to know what role he could play because of longstanding problems in his native land. “Honduras has been misgoverned for a long time,” Hugo said. “A lot of corruption. A lot of things that could have been done better.” That corruption has sometimes occurred at the highest levels of government. In 2024, the Associated Press reported that former Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernandez had been sentenced to 45 years in prison for helping traffickers smuggle 400 tons of cocaine into the United States. Cerrato questioned whether a Christian could serve well in government. “I’ve always been interested in politics, but I didn’t think there was anything good in it.” Then Cerrato took Politics and American Culture, a general education course, with Dr. Mark Caleb Smith, who serves as the Dean of the School of Arts and Humanities and Director of the Center for Political Studies. “I learned there could be virtue and justice and integrity in politics if you have the right mindset to serve God first and then serve the people. That shifted my perspective.” “ I learned there could be virtue and justice and integrity in politics if you have the right mindset to serve God first and then serve the people. That shifted my perspective.” 22
Nicholas Carrington ’10 serves as Associate Professor of Communication. He earned his PhD in technical communication and rhetoric from Texas Tech University. The biblical perspective on public service has continued to shape his views in both his majors: international studies and economics. Cedarville has also provided Cerrato with opportunities to put this Christ-centered mindset into practice through the Model United Nations (UN) team, where he has seen plenty of success. In 2024, he received both the Outstanding Delegation and Outstanding Delegate awards at the National Model United Nations conference in New York. Now, Cerrato has grand ambitions to serve in the Honduran congress, maybe even as the country’s president, but Cedarville has taught him Who deserves his ultimate devotion. “I’m an ambassador for Christ. Then I’m an ambassador for the people.” Transformed perspectives. Transformed futures. Transformed lives. For students like Golson, Cerrato, and many others, the spiritual growth that transforms their lives at Cedarville is only possible through the kindness of donors, and it does not go unnoticed. “I would not have been able to do these things without the scholarships. It makes me tear up,” Cerrato said. “Their generosity is not in vain.” For students like Golson, Cerrato, and many others, the spiritual growth that transforms their lives at Cedarville is only possible through the kindness of donors, and it does not go unnoticed. 23
CHANGED BY 24
THE BY RICH STRATTON Cedarville University’s heart beats to the rhythm of the Great Commission. Every student has confessed their faith in Jesus Christ, and throughout their 1000 Days on campus, they are challenged to make Christ known through both personal evangelism and organized Global Outreach (GO) trips. Global Outreach has been a part of Cedarville’s ministry for 55 years, sending more than 11,000 students with faculty and staff mentors to serve alongside established ministries across cities, continents, and cultures. From medical missions in Togo to orphan care in Mexico or church planting missions in Boston, these experiences are defining moments — not just for those being served but for those who go. I’ve always believed that when a Christian steps away from familiarity to serve the Lord, they are changed. During my time at Cedarville, I’ve led five Global Outreach trips, walking beside 52 students on their missions journeys. On every trip, I am awed by the way the Lord transforms my students when they leave their comfort zones behind. The joy of sharing Jesus is infectious, and GO trips give students the chance to experience that joy — not just in theory but in action. ECHOES IN ETERNITY This spring, 11 students joined me on a trip to Mazatlán, Mexico, to care for orphans and families alongside Back2Back Ministries. We saw the power of Christ’s love in action as we worked with staff to invest deeply JOURNEY 25
in the lives of vulnerable children and families fighting to break cycles of poverty, abuse, and abandonment. These students worked hard to help build a community center where families can be strengthened, and they played hard to bring smiles to the faces of children hungry to know they are cared for and loved. As someone who has led my own family and numerous church teams on missions trips over the years, I was moved once again to witness lives transformed — both those we served and those on our team. This kind of experience speaks to first-time participants and seasoned mission-goers alike, proving that even the smallest act of obedience can echo in eternity. For one of my students, Spanish education major Maysun Faulconer '26, saying “yes” to a GO trip meant stepping into the unknown — and being changed by it. Maysun approached the trip with a willing spirit and a heart eager to serve. She consistently took initiative, always the first to dive into projects and connect meaningfully with those around her. “I wanted to use my Spanish in ministry,” she said. “When I saw the trip to Mazatlán, Mexico, I knew it was the one.” Maysun's excitement to practice language skills quickly turned into something far more personal. “As we worked and served, the Lord truly overwhelmed me with His love,” she shared. “His love for people, His love through service. And in those moments of joy, I knew: This is what I want my life to look like.” Maysun is still seeking God’s direction for her future, but she's no longer holding on to her own dreams too tightly. “I want to live a life completely sold out for Christ and His mission,” she said. “And that might mean walking a path I never expected.” STEPPING OUT IN FAITH Cedarville's global mission reminds me of the apostle Paul, who was always on the move with the message of Christ. For Paul, missions wasn’t just a calling — it was a joyful addiction. That same joy calls to my students, like Charis Marshal '26, a professional writing major, who also traveled to Mazatlán with our group. I’ve led five Global Outreach trips, walking beside 52 students on their missions journeys. On every trip, I am awed by the way the Lord transforms my students when they leave their comfort zones behind. 26
Charis was initially hesitant to sign up for a GO trip. The thought of raising the necessary funds felt overwhelming, and she wondered how just a few short days could make a meaningful impact, either in her own life or in the lives of those she would serve. But as she stepped out in faith and overcame those doubts, she witnessed firsthand how God can use even the smallest offering to accomplish something extraordinary. For Charis, the most powerful part of the trip was the time she spent with people. “The trip wasn’t about what we did physically,” she told me. “It was about showing others that they are loved by Jesus. The parents we played games with were worth that effort. The children we laughed with and painted with were worth it.” Charis left Mexico with a newfound conviction from the Lord. “I was willing to fly to another country to share the love of Christ, but how often am I unwilling to do that in my own hometown?” she admitted. “This trip GO trips help students develop a heart for the nations — and for their neighbors. They come back seeing their communities with new eyes. They understand that they can be missionaries wherever they are. 27
reminded me that every person, everywhere — friends, neighbors, my own family — is loved and valuable in the eyes of God.” That is one of the most profound outcomes of GO trips: They both sharpen students’ global vision and give them a renewed sense of mission at home. GO trips help students develop a heart for the nations — and for their neighbors. They come back seeing their communities with new eyes. They understand that they can be missionaries wherever they are. Three of the students I’ve traveled with are now committed to serving as full-time missionaries in sensitive countries on three different continents. Others have gone into church planting, full-time ministry, and even returned to lead GO trips of their own. That kind of fruit can only come from hearts transformed by the Gospel. SHAPED BY SURRENDER Behind every GO trip is a network of prayer, financial support, and planning. Dr. Thomas White, Cedarville's president, urges every student to participate in at least one trip during their time at Cedarville. That vision requires dozens of trips every year, coordinated by the Global Outreach office and supported by generous donors. These trips are moments of surrender. I’ve seen students leave behind familiarity, expectations, and sometimes even safety to love people in Jesus’ name. They return with a changed heart, a deeper calling, and often a new direction for life. “I don’t know if I’m called to long-term missions,” Maysun said. “But I know this trip was part of God opening my heart. It’s changed how I see everything.” These trips are moments of surrender. I’ve seen students leave behind familiarity, expectations, and sometimes even safety to love people in Jesus’ name. They return with a changed heart, a deeper calling, and often, a new direction for life. 28
DID YOU KNOW? Just one month before we announced the One Thousand Days Transformed campaign publicly, a generous donor gave a $1 million endowed gift to start a Global Outreach fund. In all, $4.9 million was given to Global Outreach during One Thousand Days Transformed — making it possible for students to have life-transforming missions experiences for decades to come. Every GO trip has a cost. But the return is eternal. Students, faculty, and staff alike walk away with a richer understanding of the Gospel, a deeper love for others, and a greater willingness to say, “Here am I. Send me.” After serving vocationally in the church for over 20 years — and participating in dozens of short-term missions trips — I feared that transitioning into higher education might distance me from this deeply cherished aspect of my life. But thanks to Cedarville’s unwavering commitment to the Gospel, its embrace of the Great Commission, and its strong emphasis on Global Outreach, I now have the privilege not only to continue going but also to introduce students to the addictive joy of taking Jesus to the nations. To those who give, pray, and encourage these trips — thank you. Your investment is bearing fruit in lives like Maysun’s, Charis’, and countless others around the world. You are helping Cedarville fulfill its call to equip bold, faithful believers who will proclaim Christ and live on mission no matter where He leads. Rich Stratton serves as Assistant Director of Public Relations at Cedarville University. 29
In the 12 years since Dr. Thomas White became Cedarville’s 10th president, God has blessed the University with unprecedented growth, including the largest fundraising campaign in University history. For Dr. White, the University’s success is an opportunity to steward God’s gifts for His glory and the growth of His Kingdom. Cedarville Magazine asked Dr. White to share his perspectives on how the campaign has set Cedarville up for sustainable success for years to come. AN INTERVIEW WITH PRESIDENT THOMAS WHITE A STRONGER TOMORROW 30
31
How did the idea for the One Thousand Days Transformed campaign come about? And how did the planning unfold, especially when God blessed your initial goals? We began with a 10-year campus master plan. Using a consultant, we held hundreds of listening sessions with stakeholder groups. From those conversations, we developed a list of important projects and prioritized the ones that aligned with our mission and enhanced the 1000-Day Cedarville student experience. Once we had clarity on our needs, it was time to present those needs to potential donors. That strategy became the One Thousand Days Transformed campaign. As God blessed and donors responded with generosity — and as student enrollment exceeded our expectations — our plan naturally expanded. New residence halls became a pressing need. Ultimately, we sought to respond to God’s provision with faithful stewardship. How did you build biblical stewardship principles into Cedarville’s strategy for the campaign? We strive to steward every dollar entrusted to Cedarville with care and integrity. We operate with conservative business practices and avoid frivolous spending so donors can trust us with their gifts. Our goal is to connect individuals who have been entrusted with financial resources with meaningful opportunities to invest in students and impact God’s Kingdom. Our partners in ministry work hard and save faithfully. We carry a sacred responsibility before them and before the Lord to steward their gifts well and to honor their intent. What on-campus developments from the campaign are you the most excited about? All of them! From Chick-fil-A and academic facilities to Global Outreach missions trip funding, improved athletic spaces, and modern residence halls, each project plays an important role in fulfilling our mission. Every project benefits our students’ overall campus experience, and I’m excited about them all. Is there a moment of provision that impacted you the most personally? Several! We prayed. God heard and answered our prayers. He provided in ways so specific that we could clearly see His hand at work — both on campus and in the hearts of our ministry partners. The walls of Jericho didn’t fall for us, but the walls of new buildings were funded in miraculous ways. Only God could have accomplished this. These individual moments reinforced to me that in all circumstances, God is faithful. We can trust Him. You mentioned in the last issue your desire to make Cedarville sustainable. What campaign goals helped Cedarville move toward a more sustainable future? Healthy universities must diversify their revenue streams to remain affordable for students. One of the most effective ways we can do this is through a strong endowment. This campaign allowed us to speak with many donors about the long-term impact of endowment giving. As a result, our endowment grew significantly during the campaign, and we secured many future commitments as well. The walls of Jericho didn’t fall for us, but the walls of new buildings were funded in miraculous ways. Only God could have accomplished this. 32
These gifts enhance Cedarville’s long-term sustainability so we can continue to serve students for generations to come. Can you explain to our readers in your own words how endowments work? An endowment is a gift that is wisely invested so that portions of the investment earnings can be used each year to support designated purposes — most often, student scholarships. The principal (the original gift) remains intact and generates income each year. This means that a donor’s gift can provide scholarships for decades to come. Why would you encourage readers to give an endowment specifically? When you give an endowment, you can give long past your lifetime to an area you care deeply about. Some individuals also choose to give “twice” through their estate by creating a trust that supports their heirs over time and then directs the remaining principal to a charitable cause. This plan reduces tax liabilities and increases giving. We can help set up conversations through a third-party service for anyone who is interested in learning more. Strategic giving through endowments allows a donor’s investment to have a lasting Kingdom impact. That’s one reason Joy and I give personally to an endowment established in honor of my mother-in-law. What comes next, now that the campaign is completed? What are Cedarville’s priorities for future giving? We still have two years before the final building of the campaign is completed. Once that’s finished, we will have completed our 10year master plan one year ahead of schedule. So what comes next? It’s time to dream again. We will have conversations, assess new needs, cultivate ministry partnerships, and, most importantly, seek God’s wisdom. I can assure you that scholarships and endowments will continue to be major priorities long into the future. If you could say one thing to readers who may be considering giving a gift to Cedarville, what would it be? Give now. Impact eternity. When ministry partners like you shape the life of a student, that student could go on to serve in inner cities, public schools, healthcare, Wall Street, or across the globe — impacting thousands of other souls for Christ! Only two things last forever: the Word of God and the souls of His image-bearers. There is no wiser investment than investing in eternity. Some individuals also choose to give “twice” through their estate by creating a trust that supports their heirs over time and then directs the remaining principal to a charitable cause. This plan reduces tax liabilities and increases giving. We can help set up conversations through a third-party service for anyone who is interested in learning more. 33
WATCH CHAPEL VIA LIVESTREAM AT 10 A.M. EACH WEEKDAY DURING THE ACADEMIC YEAR cedarville.edu/chapellive facebook.com/cedarville/live youtube.com/cedarvilleuniversity GOD KNOWS ME. GOD IS WITH ME. The following is an excerpt from a September 9, 2025, chapel presentation from Alistair Begg. Listen to his full message at cedarville.edu/BeggSeptember2025. I have two overarching headings for Psalm 139: 1–12 this morning. The first, in verses 1–6, “God, you know me.” And then, in 7–14, “God, you're with me.” First of all, you have searched me and known me. You see, David knows that the divine knowledge is knowledge of David himself. How comprehensive and how personal this is. David knows it's impossible for him to deceive God because God knows his secret thoughts. You and I may be masters of disguise before one another, but I cannot hide from a God whose knowledge of me is so wonderful, so high that the psalmist says, “I barely can get my head around it at all." Verse six serves both as a conclusion to those earlier verses and also an introduction to the verses that follow, moving from God knows me to God is with me. “Where shall I go from your spirit, or where shall I flee from your presence?" We're not unfamiliar with the idea of going to try and find a hiding place. The Bible begins with Adam and Eve hiding. Jonah wanted to make his own run for it. Let me tell you, I'm an old man now. You can't run, and you can't hide. The hounds of heaven will chase you down. It's a measure of God's grace and goodness to you. I don't think David is looking for the possibility of escape but rather comforting himself with the fact that escape is impossible. He's not looking for a place to hide except to run into the shelter of the only One who goes before him and comes behind him. Are you worried that you can't finish the race? Look what it says. “Even there your hand shall lead me. Your right hand shall hold me. Even darkness isn't dark to you. The night is as light as the day." It's a wonderful picture, isn't it? There's no corner of the universe that God is not sovereign over. What a privilege it is to awaken in the morning and turn to our Bibles and just say to ourselves as we walk out into this day, “He knows me. He's with me.” That's the story. That's the Christian testimony. That's yours. Alistair Begg is an author, former pastor, and Bible teacher on Truth for Life. CHAPEL NOTES 34
WATCH FAITHFUL BIBLICAL TEACHING ON KEY CULTURAL ISSUES This fall, Cedarville welcomed Dr. Christopher Yuan to provide a biblical view on relationships and sexuality. Dr. Yuan traced the roots of LGBTQ+ ideology and combatted the lies of our culture with biblical truth. Do you need a refresher on this important issue? You can watch sessions from Dr. Yuan online at cedarville.edu/chapel! JESUS WINS The following is an excerpt from an August 21, 2025, Fall Bible Conference presentation from Dr. Jimmy Scroggins. Listen to his full message at cedarville.edu/ScrogginsAugust2025. Open your Bibles to Romans 8. First, I want you to see that Jesus is for you. Paul says, “You want to know that Jesus is for you? He was crucified for you.” And not only was He crucified for us, but He was raised from the dead. God has already called you and declared you justified because of your faith in Christ. Satan brings up all your sins against God. I can picture Satan saying, “God, why do you care so much about this guy? He doesn't look anything like you. Why don't you just let this one go?" And I can imagine God saying, “That one belongs to me. All of the sins that you can bring up have been put under the blood of my Son. I've declared them righteous with my own voice.” Number two: Jesus is with you. Paul asks this rhetorical question: “Who can separate us from the love of Christ?” And he lists all the things that might separate us from the love of Christ: death, distance, danger. And yet, Paul says, none of these things are big enough to overcome the absolute, unconditional, sacrificial, selfless love that Christ has put on display for you. Sin separates us from God. But Jesus dealt with that separation at the cross. Third idea: Jesus loves you. There's a lot of places in Scripture that say God loves you, but this is one of the few places where it specifically says Jesus loves you. Jesus, God the Son, loves you in His own person. Last idea, number four: Jesus wins. If you are in Christ, that means life is a fight. And you will win because Christ has already won. He's been crucified on the cross. He's been buried. God raised Him from the dead. And then Jesus ascended to heaven. From there, He will return to judge the living and the dead. At the end of the day, you are more than a conqueror because Jesus wins. That is the message of the entire Bible. At the end of it all, Jesus wins. Dr. Jimmy Scroggins is the lead pastor at Family Church in West Palm Beach, Florida. 35
www.cedarville.eduRkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTM4ODY=