Inspire, Summer 2011

Dr. Brown’s Top Picks ■ Book Think: The Life of the Mind and the Love of God by John Piper Typical high-class Piper, this book reminds us that we must think deeply and appropriately about what we believe. It is challenging and motivating. ■ Website quotationspage.com A catalyst to ponder deep thoughts. I like the motivational quotes page. Some will make you laugh; some will make you angry; all will motivate you. ■ Podcast Music Lessons on iTunes On the iTunes podcast page, search for “Music Lessons” to see videos that teach you how to play the guitar, drums, bass, or even how to be a disc jockey. Most are free. ■ Movie For My Father This 2008 Israeli film is a gripping story of a young Palestinian who travels to Tel Aviv with a bomb strapped under his shirt. When the device malfunctions, he must spend the weekend with local Jews who have no idea that on Monday he plans to have the bomb repaired to carry out his mission. College Family Connection by William E. Brown, Ph.D. Nobody noticed that I did not attend my college graduation. The size of the university and the lack of community made me feel unattached, so I said, “Just send me my diploma in the mail.” This is why I cherish the Cedarville experience. Daily chapel, engaged faculty, and vibrant student life programs develop an engaged community and provide lasting memories. No place is perfect, but when we say “Friends for Life,” it is more than a tagline. The Family I have always liked the motto of Bob Evans restaurants: “We treat friends like family.” The same is true for many Cedarville students and alumni. The college years are a time when students develop the personal commitments that shape the trajectory of their lives. Unique college experiences and memories embed deep into their hearts. Like biological families, the Cedarville family grieves together over losses and rejoices over personal successes. That family spirit is alive and growing through 23 (and counting!) alumni chapters around the country. I try to visit as many alumni gatherings as I can each year, and it is always encouraging to see and hear alumni from different eras share their common bond in Christ. At one recent event, an alumnus said, “I never thought I’d see the Cedarville family again outside of homecoming. This is great!” The Network The network begins on campus. The alumni relations office provides events, a helpful website, and the monthly eNews to keep alumni connected with the University and with each other. Off campus, Cedarville friends and family help guide students and alumni to jobs, churches, housing, and more. The Cedarville network becomes larger and more visible every year. I am encouraged by the way this network is mobilizing to propel Cedarville into the future. These are challenging days for most colleges and universities, and our alumni are responding by giving more and connecting more. Interest in Cedarville has never been higher, and alumni are among the best recruiters. They are also providing more scholarship dollars to ensure that worthy students can afford to attend. The Key The key is Cedarville’s Christ-centered focus. Christ is the magnet that keeps us together in ways that extend beyond ballgames and concerts. I am so grateful for the alumni, parents, and friends who provide help, guidance, and encouragement for others in the Cedarville family. There are so many ways you can be involved — just let us know your interest. To those making the most of your Cedarville connections, thank you … from our family to yours. 44 SUMMER 2011 pres ident ’s perspect i ve