Torch, Fall 1990

Positioned for the '90s Poised for the 21st Century his decade is unique. It concludes the 20th century and the second millennium. As I read the signs in all directions , I see a future with more global concerns and greater scientific and technological orientation. Free enterprise is exploding all over Europe, especially in Commu– nist nations. The arts are on the rise. And there is a predicted increase in religious fervency even while there are more attacks on biblical Christianity. I believe that, by God's grace, Cedarville College is positioned to address these challenges. I also believe that, more than ever before, this world needs what Cedarville has to offer: graduates who are committed Christians and competent professionals. In the last 102 years Cedarville College has emerged as one of the leaders in Christian higher education. Today, as at its inception, the mission of the College is to provide a quality education consistent with biblical truth to our students, now numbering over 1,900. Our faculty are among the best prepared in Christian and other independ– ent colleges, with appropriate degrees and experience in their teaching areas. Christian leaders across the country increasingly cite Cedarville for developing one of the finest science programs while maintaining a biblical base. Nursing, which began only nine years ago, is highly respected throughout the state and nation. We launched our Engineering Department this fall , and we are planning to complete a new 68,000 square foot facility in 1992 to support the engineering, nursing, and science programs. Business Administration, long noted for teaching free enterprise, is leading the way in internationalizing its curriculum. New College majors include international studies, social work, and public administration. Our premed and prelaw students continue to gain acceptance into gradu– ate schools at a rate above the national average. A new 8,500 square foot facility will be ready this winter to address space needs of music and drama. The Chapel is under study for expansion to meet the increasing pressures brought on by 11 consecutive years of enrollment growth. Multinational corporations, regional firms, hundreds of schools, and dozens of hospitals recruit Cedarville students annually because they recognize their quality in professional preparation, ethics, and potential for success. And to meet this nation's quest for spiritual moorings, Cedarville will continue to reach out to meet people's needs with our comprehensive Christian ministries program, which is worldwide in scope and involves nearly 80% of the student body at any one time. Cedarville College, with the Lord's enablement, is strategically positioned for the '90s and enthusiastically poised for the possibilities of the 21st century. ohn Naisbitt and Patricia Abur– dene in MEGATRENDS 2000 cite "unmistakable signs of a worldwide multidenominational religious revival." Contrary to forecasters' predictions of 45 years ago, religion has not with– ered away because of moder– nity. On the contrary, the fast paced changes that have buffeted people in recent years have only intensified their need for spiritual security. What a marvelous opportunity for Cedarville College to be positioned to take advantage of this trend. Recently , I learned of a businessman who was driving through the Cedarville area. As he turned the dial on his radio, he came across CDR, our College radio station. He liked the sound of the music so much that he set the frequency on a push button for easy access. For four years he listened and enjoyed CDR 's "sacred sounds of peace." But he pur– posely never listened to any of the many fine Bible teaching programs. Then he began to come into contact with our students and faculty through his busi– ness. Eventually he came to campus where he was impressed with the genu– ine, caring concern for his soul. Shortly afterward he accepted Jesus Christ as his personal Savior and is now assured of a home in heaven for eternity. God is using Cedarville College to train thousands of young people to live their faith before a world that is search– ing for the answer to life 's most impor– tant question: How does one relate to a holy God? Have you wondered about this? God says in the Bible that all are sinners and have sinned against this holy God (Romans 3:23); Jesus Christ died for all our sins and arose from the dead (Romans 5:8, I Corinthians 1.5 :4); the wages of sin is death , but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Clu·ist our Lord (Romans 6:23). The answer to life's most important question is this: "For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved" (Romans 10:13). You can have peace with God today.