Western Today

Western Baptist College is a Christian college offering 45 majors

and program options, including degree completion programs. Western Baptist is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities and is approved by the State of Oregon to prepare both elementary and

secondary teachers for licensure. WB is recognized by U.S. News & World Report as one of the West’s Top Ten Best

Comprehensive Colleges/Bachelor’s for 2005.

Reno Hoff

J. Steven Hunt

Claudia Green

J. Steven Hunt

Corey Wells

Western Today is

published quarterly for friends

and alumni by the Communica-

tions Office of Western Baptist

College. Address all inquiries

to the Development Office,

5000 Deer Park Drive SE,

Salem, OR 97301

or call 503-375-7003

ADMINISTRATION:

President

President Emeritus

V.P. for Academics

V.P. for Business

V.P. for Student Life

V.P. for Marketing

Dean /Enrlmnt. Mgmt.

OFFICERS of the BOARD:

Chair

Vice Chair

Secretary

Treasurer

WEB SITE:

E-MAIL:

President

WT Editor

Admissions

Financial Aid

Degree Completion

Publisher

Editor

Research

Compiled By

Design/Photography

WESTERN TODAY

Reno Hoff

John Balyo

Bryce Bernard

Chris Erickson

Nancy Hedberg

J. Steven Hunt

Martin Ziesemer

Tom Carlson

Dick Whipps

India Tornell

Chris Erickson

www.wbc.edu

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

CONTENTS

WESTERN TODAY

3From the President“Dedicating Heart and Mind to God”

6 21A College is Born

The Journey Begins

News from the Alumni Association

An overview of our 70 year history

4The timeline from Phoenix to Salem

Class Notes

This final issue of Western Today marks the end of its ten-year run by that name. Prior to that, the main publication for the college was a newspaper called In Focus, then The Western Voice, and before that, Power, The Western Baptist, and WeBaBiCo Echoes. Even though the names have changed, the message has been consistent—an ongoing communication of what God is doing at the College. In the early days of the College Press (circa 1956) work on the Power newsletter was either typewritten or handset on a letterpress and then reproduced by lithograph. You can see the progression of our communications pieces in the timeline running through the top of the pages of this issue. For this final issue we decided to take a look back over the last 70 years and remember the campuses and the people who gave so much of their lives to see the mission continue forward. The people shown are just random samplings of the hundreds who have spent part of their life here. Decade by decade we can see the footprints of their progress, testing, uncertainties and victories as they continued to educate Christian students. It’s encouraging to see all the steps taken in order to forge ahead in spite of seemingly insurmountable odds. The vibrant College we see today is a testimony to the foundational work of those who were here before. Next month you will receive a special edition of our new magazine, CORBAN. I know you’ll be encouraged by the most recent steps in our journey. I hope you enjoy reading this as much as we’ve had fun putting it together.

Steve Hunt (‘69)

2 WESTERN TODAY • COMMEMORATIVE ISSUE 2005

FROM THE EDITOR

In this 1966 El Cerrito photo, Stanley S. Flohr (seated) directed the Graphic Arts staff: Steve Hunt, Kathy (Mahan) Hollingsworth, Mildred Prewitt, and Don Zachry.

Today Dr. Caulkins visits with Brian Schmidt, Director of Information Systems, seen here with the College’s server farm. The servers support the activity of the more than 500 computers on campus and also act as host for the college website. The current, combined storage capacity of just under 1 terabyte can hold the equivalent data for all of the college newsletters/magazines for the last 70 years, with enough memory left over for an additional 1,989 years.

Our current Marketing/Communications Office staff: Media Specialist Mike Allegre, Production Assistant Kristina Haws (‘99), Communications Specialist Corey Wells, and Vice President for Marketing Steve Hunt (‘69).

In the late 50’s and early 60’s the College Press produced the WBBC Power newsletter and provided other college and church publications. L to R: Bob Colvin, Rick Fiol, Richard Caulkins, and Eris Caulkins.

The 1950 editorial staff of WeBaBiCo Echos (student managed newsletter standing for WE-stern BA-ptist BI-ble CO-llege): Frank Emitte, Lois Boyd, Clarence Kuns, Mary Lee, David Holcomb, Mickey Smith, Evelyn Haines, and Bill Hadeen. As far as we could tell this was the first communications team for the College.

Publication Staff History

24An Invitation to View the Newest Facility

Open House

We have created a new slogan “Dedicating Heart and Mind to God” to inspire us for the coming years, but it also reflects the mission of our college since its inception. When established in 1935 Phoenix Bible Institute’s original mission was to train missionaries. Eleven years later it became Western Baptist Bible College, and the mission was expanded to include the training of pastors and other full-time Christian workers. This mission successfully produced the hundreds of Christian workers still scattered throughout the world.

In 1978 the program again expanded to include all Christians who were seeking to prepare themselves for a life of service. We began that process by adding several majors beyond the ministry majors such as business management, counseling, and education. Today, we offer 45 majors and programs of study.

As Western Baptist College—soon to be Corban College—we continue to be a Bible-centered institution with the mission “to educate Christians who will make a difference in the world for Jesus Christ.” In order to carry out this mission, we require all our students to average one Bible and theology course every semester. We also require all students to take the course “Baptist Heritage”—a study of church history covering not just Baptists but other evangelical groups as well. We train all of our graduates to be prepared for ministry in whatever profession they choose. There are no second-class Christians—only believers who are equipped with special spiritual gifts to use for whatever they feel the Lord has called them to do.

Dedicating all our hearts and minds to God is the common thread that goes back to the original mission of the College. Our Statement of Faith and core values are incorporated into our bylaws and remain the same to this day.

Dedicated to God,

Dr. Reno HoffPresident

WESTERN TODAY • COMMEMORATIVE ISSUE 2005 3

FROM THE PRESIDENT

“Dedicating Heart and Mind to God”

Professor Reno Hoff and professor Rich Meyers, shown in this 1976 photo, introduced the Business Management major and Psychology minor at the College that year.


A College is Born In this issue we take a look back and celebrate the 70 years of progress and growth that has come about because of the vision, dedication, and hard work of many individuals. Over the years, pastors, missionaries, laymen and educators have all invested a significant portion of their lives to see its success. At its earliest beginnings in 1935, Phoenix Bible Institute was the organization that would later grow into what we know today as Western Baptist College. The founders were Leland B. Entrekin, an evangelist, and Roy O. Bancroft, a pastor-teacher. The Institute’s early board consisted of Arthur Woods, President; Harrison Vander Linden, Dean; Leonardo Mercado, Secretary/treasurer. Other board members included Willard Riggs, Paul Jackson, Henry Poole, J. Franklin Prewitt, and Walter Rizor. In 1938 Entrekin left to found the Bible and Missionary Training Institute in Los Angeles, which eventually became known as Westmont College. In 1943 Roy O. Bancroft, representing Phoenix Bible Institute, approached a group of independent Baptist pastors, and expressed his willingness to receive the endorsement of the Independent Baptists in order to see the Institute survive its difficult times. After later considering the offer, a group of pastors affiliated with the General Association of Regular Baptist Churches assumed leadership of the Institute. Records show that in April of 1943 a meeting was called to set up a complete Board of Directors and officers and assume full leadership of the Institute. First order of business was an election of officers for the board, and the first name change took place, adding Baptist to the name. The Institute began classes as Phoenix Baptist Bible Institute in the fall of 1943 with a student population of 30 and a monthly budget of $750.

J. Franklin Prewitt: When a meeting of 13 Independent Baptist men was held in 1943, a motion was made to reorganize the leadership/ownership of the Phoenix Bible Institute. Immediately after passing a motion to proceed with reorganization, Rev. Prewitt also moved that “brethren in council accept responsibility and assume complete control of the Bible Institute as offered by the school board, and invite the other Regular Baptist Churches not present to share this responsibility.” Dr. Prewitt remained in leadership roles with the college for the successive 50 years.

Oakland Board: The 1947 yearbook contained this photo of the board of directors: Back Row: F. R. Brock Jr., C.C. Hoos, L.B. Orega, J. C. Derfelt, H. C. Poole. Seated: H. L. Wortman, H. C. Aagard, H. A. Farrar.

El Cerrito Leadership: In July/August of 1943, Dr. H.O. Van Gilder was introduced as an influential connection to Baptist pastors who could assist the advisory council of the Institute. This association was the bridge that eventually connected the Institute and its subsequent offspring, Western Baptist Bible College. Five years after the introduction, Dr. Van Gilder became president of W.B.B.C. and a beloved member of the teaching faculty. By 1951 the college had secured associate membership in the Accrediting Association of Bible Institutes and Bible Colleges. Here is the leadership team in El Cerrito, circa 1964: L-R (unkown), John Schimmel, Robert Dyer, H.O. Van Gilder, Mrs. Belle Van Gilder, Gunvor Olson. Back Row: (unknown), Lowell Brown, Richard Caulkins, Dale Johnson; Robert Hamilton, and Jack Thiessen.

Woodrow T. Young: In April 1945, board member Young recommended to the board that they consider uniting P.B.B.I. with the Los Angeles Baptist Theological Seminary, and even moving the school to the L.A.B.T.S. campus. “The consensus of opinion was in favor of maintaining P.B.B.I. in Phoenix with the warmest of Christian fellowship with the seminary.”*

*Minutes of Council Meeting, PBBI, April 4, 1945

Personnel


E. C. Eymann: First official president of Phoenix Baptist Bible Institute 1944-1946. When the decision was made to move to Oakland, there was some disagreement about the decision. Mr. Eymann stayed behind and, with some of the early board members established the Arizona Bible Institute in 1947.

Fred R. Brock, Jr.: Dr. Brock served as one of the earliest board members while still pastoring churches. He also taught classes for the same period of time that he was an administrator. While serving as pastor at the First Baptist Church of Petaluma, Calif., he became President in 1964 and under his leadership the College continued a warm relationship with supporting area churches. He was best known for his tender, sometimes emotional style of biblical teaching. He, along with his administrative team, elected to make the move to Oregon in 1969.

Thomas Younger: In June of 1973, Dr. Thomas Younger assumed the presidency and Dr. Fred Brock became Chancellor until retiring in 1975. Dr. Younger’s vision was to broaden the mission of the College to include more professional and liberal arts programs. After serving until 1982-83 he suffered a heart attack and resigned, eventually returning to the pastorate.

Herbert Farrar: Meanwhile, in 1947, the group that moved to Oakland chose the new name, Western Baptist Bible College. Rev. Herbert Farrar was a part-time president there from 1946-48 and also taught classes.

H.O. Van Gilder: Dr. H.O. Van Gilder was the first full-time President of Western Baptist Bible College. He and Mrs. Van Gilder were known for their vision and attention to detail. Dr. Van Gilder traveled for the College on many choir tours and public speaking engagements, further enlarging the visibility of the College. He was known nationally as an astute theologian and respected leader in the General Association of Regular Baptist Churches.

John Balyo: Dr. Balyo served as President from 1983 until 1991. After stepping down as President he became Chancellor and traveled extensively, speaking in churches on behalf of the College. He continues to serve today as President Emeritus. He is best remembered for bringing the College and churches into a healthy working relationship and expanding the sluggish enrollment which had been on the decline.

David Miller: Dr. David Miller served as a faculty member beginning in 1963 as a professor of theology. He became president in 1991 and served until 1999. During part of his tenure, he continued to teach theology. Students remember his presidency as one of friendship and attention to them as individuals—for learning and remembering their names. The college continued to grow, a new residence hall was built, and accreditation was reaffirmed.

Reno Hoff: Current president, Dr. Reno Hoff, was inaugurated in 1999 after serving as administrator and teacher for 30 years. He has endeavored to expand the outreach and programs of the college, and see it play a major role in the Northwest as a Bible centered, academically sound institution.

6 6 WESTERN TODAY • COMMEMORATIVE ISSUE 2005

In April of 1946 a special meeting was called to review the research done concerning relocation of the College to the San Francisco Bay Area. There was an indication of much broader church support in California for the struggling Institute. A motion by Fred R. Brock and seconded by Carrel Aagard to transfer the operations of Phoenix Baptist Bible Institute to California was made, “trusting God to find adequate facilities to carry on the work.” When the decision was made to move to Oakland, PBBI Board of Trustees member Rev. Fred R. Brock Jr. also presented the motion to change the name of the school to Western Baptist Bible College.

The Move to Oakland and Another New Name

Phoenix Bible Institute Building: Its home from 1935 to 1946.

Claiming the Land: Clarence Jeffers assists Frank Prewitt in hanging the sign on the new Oakland building in March, 1947.

Oakland Admin. Chapel Interior: In the fall of 1946 the newly named Western Baptist Bible College began classes in Oakland, California, occupying a church building purchased from the Christian & Missionary Alliance for $37,000. The campus at 33rd and Telegraph in Oakland, California opened its doors to a student body of 28.

Oakland Admin. building

Women’s Dorm in Oakland: The first faculty in Oakland numbered eight persons—one full-time teacher and seven part-time with a wide range of responsibilities. By early 1956 it had grown to a staff of six full-time, 15 part-time and several student employees. Two additional buildings were acquired to accommodate the growing student body.

1940

1935

Facilities & Staff

1937

1938

1936

First Communications PiecePhoenix Campus

Gym Mural: The logo and globe on the gymnasium wall in El Cerrito depicted the college’s slogan, “Gateway to Christian Service.”


El Cerrito Admin Bldg.: The El Cerrito administration building at the former Chung Mei Home provided much needed space and also a gymnasium. The original six-acre El Cerrito campus was purchased from the Bay Cities Baptist Union in 1956 for the price of $200,000.

Sports Center Construction: During the Oregon years, extensive work was done on the campus facilities and new buildings were added. The C.E. Jeffers Sports Center was finished in September, 1977 at a cost of $803,000.

Tom McCall: In April, 1969, a site was agreed upon in Salem and an offer of $750,000 was made for the 24 acre site. In the end, 100 acres were included for that amount by the State of Oregon, and a down payment of $5,000 was deferred until the fall. Governor Tom McCall and the State were very accommodating in closing an agreement for the Oregon campus property. After signings, Gov. McCall is said to have asked, “Is there anything else I can do for you?” Executive V.P. Jack Thiessen replied, “Well, I guess you could just give it to us!” McCall exclaimed, “I thought we just did!”

PVG Construction: The Prewitt Van Gilder Residence Halls were dedicated in 1994 and added much needed space to the campus residence life.

Psalm Performing Arts Center: The $3.6 million Psalm Performing Arts Center opens in April and is the crown jewel of the campus. More photos and information about it will be presented in the inaugural issue of CORBAN magazine in May.

Current Campus Care Staff: Some of the physical plant staff which includes 20 full-time workers and a half-million dollar annual budget. Scott Harbaugh (inside truck) is the director.

1943

1945

Davidson Hall: The newest residence hall is the Alton Lyndon and June Velde Davidson Hall, constructed in 2004.

Dining Hall Scene: circa 1948.

Mrs. Herbert Holcomb: started as “the” cook, second semester of 1951.

James Reno, in Oakland, 1951, the earliest found photo of a maintenance man.

ARAMARK Food Service: Alumnus Bethany Bigelow (‘95) is the current director on campus. ARAMARK Food Services has 45 on-campus employees serving an average of 6000 meals per week.

1941

1944

The Beginning of a Tradition: Outreach and Service Team Dr. Prewitt Begins

Jack Thiessen: Executive Vice President Jack Thiessen headed up the moving logistics and ensuing campus startup operations.


By 1954 “it became very apparent that WBBC must have a new and more adequate campus”

(The Western Baptist, Vol. I, No. 6). After much prayer, a decision to move was made in order to accommodate the growing student body. A newsletter for that year described the new campus as “a splendid new campus, well situated in the foothills of the Berkeley Hills in a fine residential area of

El Cerrito.” On July 30th the work of moving began, and was described as “one of the greatest steps of faith taken by the College.” It was a great day of cooperation with volunteer help from the churches as well as students in the area for the summer. September 14, 1956, in a program of greetings from local pastors and community officials, a celebration day marked the occasion. Open House included refreshments and tours of the six-acre grounds. Some remodeling was needed in the library, but that fall a record enrollment of 93 students descended on the campus. One student said that the quality and quantity of students “is believed to be an evidence of answered prayer and a bestowal of God’s blessing upon the college” (The Western

Baptist, Vol. II, No. 1).

That year also introduced the first program of the Theological Seminary. During the succeeding 13 years the College grew to a student body of nearly 500, representing churches from throughout the West Coast, and accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

The Move to an Expanded Campus in El Cerrito EC Wade: One of the earliest Phoenix faculty

member photos is of E.C. Wade who was a pastor, a student at the Institute, and also taught English. Around 1943, some of the historical records from administrative meetings indicate that discussions centered around pay for faculty. It was suggested to “pay teachers something—$1.00 a lesson or $1.00 a day, to pay incidentals and make teachers feel more responsible.”*

*Minutes from Meeting of Pastors, August 9, 1943.

Dwight West: El Cerrito/Oregon faculty member Dwight West is listed as having taught missions and linguistics in this 1968 photo.

Carrel Aagard: Oakland faculty member Carrel Aagard taught Christian Psycohlogy, English, Orientation, Church Administration, New Testament Greek, and also served as Dean of Men and Registrar.

Teaching Personnel

Calvin Odell: Oregon faculty member Calvin Odell was a beloved faculty member and taught for several years in the area of letters and sciences. His classroom still bears a plaque in his name.

Jerry Johnson: Current faculty member Jerry Johnson chairs the Math and Sciences division. He is a graduate of Illinois State University, with Ph.D. studies in progress at Nova Southeastern University. He has been a part of the faculty for 17 years.

1950

1945

1947

1948

1946

1949

Farrar Becomes President Choir Music’s Early Beginnings

Berkeley Gazette


Student Leadership at Phoenix: The Junior Class of 1945-46: Lee LaLone, President; Reginald Melhorn, V.P.; Winnefred Smith, Secretary; and Eugene Eymann Jr., Treasurer. Some of the student body transferred to Oakland later that year to join the student body of the newly named Western Baptist Bible College, but many remained. Although in agreement with the Regular Baptist support of the school, the 1947 yearbook for the Arizona Bible Institute (renamed and representing those that chose to remain in Phoenix) stated: “The California brethren, after seeing the growth and blessing of the school here, finally decided to move the school to Oakland, and this was accomplished against the wishes of the executive committee, most of the faculty and the large majority of the students.”

Student Leadership 1978: Student leadership dispersed $25,000 in student fees for activities and retirement of the Student Union (building) debt. Pictured here, left to right: Pete Younger, Dave Lunsford, Mike Howden, Mike Glasser, Bob Danielion, Pat McReynolds, Cherie Strassen, Judy Sparling, Joyce Koenig, Janice Emitte, Student Council President Jeff Smith, Dave Teefel, and Gary Chang.

Student Leadership 1993

Current Student Leadership: L to R front: President Ben Morris, Vice President Joseph Greenwood, Intramural Coord. Nathan Morris; back: Student Ministries Coord. Ryan Welsh, Activities Coord. Kim Jones, Communications Coord. Jamie Ruda, Treasurer Dustin Karstetter, and Fellowships Coord. Stephen Leckvold.

1953

1955

1951

1954

1952

First Basketball Team

Student Leadership


1960

1955

1957

1958

1956

1959

The Western Baptist, 1956 El Cerrito Newsletter, 1956 The Power, 1959

In 1969, the growing student population in El Cerrito presented a critical need for space. Building costs for the Bay Area disqualified new construction at that site. Administrators searched for possible locations including San Jose and Sacramento, but the Oregon State Tuberculosis Hospital in Salem was found in the Wall Street Journal and was eventually chosen. That summer 26 moving vans made the trip to Oregon where staff and faculty unloaded the trucks and settled in. Excitement was high and much work was needed to prepare the new campus for opening classes and residence life. In the last 35 years, $14,000,000 has been invested in the property and facilities. The college advanced through the difficult times primarily because of a determined corporate leadership and a family of employees who sacrificed to see the work progress, adding programs, personnel and quality to the institution. A strong athletics program also provided character-building programs for students, camaraderie for staff, as well as name recognition for the College.

Three Decades of Transition

Music & Ministries

Choir, circa 1950: Music has been a big part of the college program and outreach. Over the years, dozens of churches throughout the West Coast have heard the College’s music groups perform. This 1950 photo of the choir was an early example of the emphasis on music.

Richmond Auditorium: The 1968-69 Christmas Concert attracted 900 people to see the 40-piece band and 110-voice choir perform.

Small Groups: Lorin Goree accompanies the “Trieber Trio,” Molly, Esther and Dorothy, in this 1947 photo at Oakland.

Mensingers: The Mensingers—a men’s glee group—began in 1966 with music instructor Vic Hubbard as director and Paul Eisentrager as the first student director. In the 1967-68 group, members included Leonard Gluck, Jim Boyd, Dave Sprague, Mike Hawkins, Chris Nicholson, Pat Caldie, B. Cook, Bob Bartlett, Frank Prewitt, Mike Scott, Gary Robey, Dave Pace, Maxie Bennett, and director Glen Collard.

Christmas Pageant: Christmas Alive was a tradition begun by music professor Peter Kobe. It ran for more than a decade as an annual Christmas gift to the community, and hundreds of students enjoyed performing in this drama pageant/concert for many years.


1963

1965

1961

1964

1962

The Power, 1961

Master’s Touch: Master’s Touch was established and originally directed by Peter Kobe. The groups traveled extensively for the College in the Master’s Touch bus and provided positive exposure to churches throughout the country.

Glorybound: The 1990 Glorybound group included Carrie Parker, Camie Anderson, Melanie Ligocki, Kristina Wagner, Cheryl Reeser, Lorie Baker, Dolly Taylor, Becky Bauman, student director Robin Turner, Karen McGinty, and Stacey Seguin.

Music Today: Today’s music programs are administered by Dr. Virginia Cross with a department that includes four full-time and 12 adjunct teachers. Professors Matthew Strauser and Dan Shuholm conduct the choirs and bands for the College today. The 2005 tour included churches and schools in the Seattle area.

The curriculum at the College has always been biblically centered. Here are a few of the Bible professors scattered through the decades:

J.J. Rader: 1945 Phoenix Bible teacher also taught Homeletics.

Burton Reed: Rev. Burton Reed taught Systematic Theology in El Cerrito as a part of the ministries faculty.

Dale Johnson: Dale Johnson was a ministries professor in El Cerrito and Oregon. A beloved faculty member, Dale taught theology for a number of years in spite of being wheelchair-bound.

Carl Blanchard: A 1983 picture of professor Carl Blanchard, instructor of Pastoral Ministries and Bible.

Ministry Today: Current ministries faculty includes: L to R: Dan Garland, Adjunct Bible Instructor; Department Chair Dr. Robert Wright, Intercultural Studies; Lee Ann Zanon, Instructor in Residence, Women’s Ministries; Dr. Gary Derickson, Professor of Biblical Studies; (back) Dr. Greg Trull, Associate Professor/Biblical Studies; Dr. Timothy Anderson, Associate Professor/Bible and Theology; Mike Flores, Associate Professor/Bible and Youth Ministry; and Dr. Kent Kersey, Campus Pastor and Assoc. Professor of Ministries, (not pictured: Anne Jeffers).


1970

1965

1967

1968

1966

1969

The Power, 1967 The Power, 1969

Academics: In the 1946 Phoenix yearbook, classes mentioned are: Synthesis, Systematic Theology, Bible Doctrine, and Christian Evidences, Chapter Summary, Biblical Antiquities, Public Speaking, World History, History of the English Bible, Departmental Specialization, and Bible Memory, Homeletics, English, piano, Child Evangelism, and Spanish. There was no accreditation.

Recognition: In 1955 the College received degree granting status from the State of California Department of Education.

After its move to Oregon, accreditation needed to be reaffirmed for the new region, and in 1971 the Northwest Association of Schools and Colleges granted accreditation. Academic programs were still offered in ministries and general education until May, 1976 when Business and Psychology programs were introduced. Since that time 10 year reviews have kept accreditation in place. In 1982-83 enrollment was falling, finances were in short supply, and the college was without a president. Dr. Younger had resigned, and without a president, Board member William Bellshaw was appointed as Executive Director to assist in bridging the gap between presidents. He was charged, along with Richard Caulkins, Rich Rollins, Darrel Patterson, and Frank Prewitt, to find a solution to the declining health of the College. The following four years, deans, administrators, and faculty rallied to turn the tide. The Master’s Touch music group and administrators traveled from Canada to Mexico conducting a series of fundraising banquets which netted $300,000. The grassroots effort was aimed at seeing a revival of the College’s overall stability. Additional efforts included auctions, craft fairs, and even a car wash that netted $7,500. Several people stand out as memorable for their part in giving direction during this time including Board Chairman David Drullinger, who added leadership and clarity for the board. The installation of Dr. John Balyo as president began a recovery that gained in strength. Through his gracious yet professional style of leadership, the many positive changes that occurred were so apparent a year later that some asked “is this the same college?” Today the academic programs total 45 majors and programs of study. The number of full-time faculty has grown to 35 and four part-time. In addition, each semester there is an average of 30 adjuncts teaching in the traditional program,

Majors & Programsgraduate program, and Adult Studies Division. Fifteen of the 35 full-time faculty have Doctoral degrees (42%), with five more in progress.

Richard Caulkins: Dr. Richard Caulkins came to the college in 1953 and has served in a variety of capacities, including Academic Dean. He is the second longest term employee, currently in his 49th year with the College.

Academics


1973

1975

1971

1974

1972

The Power, 1974 The Power, 1975

Classroom scene from the 80s: During 1956-1969 academic programs centered around ministries and general education. Accreditation was realized in 1959 when the Accrediting Association of Bible Colleges recognized WBBC as a Bible College. In 1968, the Western Association of Schools and Colleges also granted regional accreditation.

The addition of an Adult Studies program began as the Division of Professional Studies in 1991-92 with three Management and Communication (MAC) cohorts totaling 49 students. The Family Studies program began in 1993-94 with classes in both Salem and Portland. At the same time, the Management and Communication program began a distance version. In 1997, the distance program converted to an online format and also included an online version of the Family Studies program. Ten new classes (both on-campus and online) started in 2004-2005 with a peak enrollment of 147 students. Combined with classes already in session, the average number of MAC/Family Studies classes in session at any given time is between 16-18. The average retention rate for both programs is between 85%-90%.The Division is currently directed by Nancy Martyn (‘68) and as of May 2005, 686 graduates have completed the MAC and Family Studies programs.

Bryce Bernard: Dr. Bryce Bernard currently serves as Vice President for Academics. The gradual addition of professional and liberal arts programs has resulted in a total of 45 majors and programs of study offered today. Since 1995 we have added B.S. programs in Computer Science, Health Sciences and a Masters in Education. The next accreditation review for the College will occur in October, 2006.

Current Adult Studies staff: L to R: Alan Bittle, Dean of A.S.D. Nancy Martyn, Dr. Bruce Merritt; Row 2: Anita Hughes, Jeany Woodley, Nancy Walsh; Row 3: Chaille Shipps, Alice Bronson, Carolyn Purtell.

Adult Studies Division


1980

1975

1977

1978

1976

1979

The Power Tabloid, 1979

Teacher Education Program

Library

The Teacher Education Program for the College was first approved as a free-standing program in 1990 by the Teacher Standards and Practices Commission of Oregon. Prior to this WBC had cooperative programs with several other colleges, the first of these being with Western Oregon University. WBC students spent three years on campus, a year at WOU that included public school student teaching, and a fifth year back at WBC, including student teaching in a private or missions school. After working with WOU, the Teacher Education Program cooperated with several private colleges in the Portland area, including Columbia Christian College and the University of Portland. Scott Miller and Brad Crosby were the first graduates from the program in 1991. The first programs prepared teachers for licenses in elementary education, language arts, mathematics, music, physical education and social studies. More recently, programs in business education and biology education have been added. The newest offering, the Master of Education program, began in September, 2004. At the graduate level, candidates can choose from pre-service programs, or they can pursue tracks in Curriculum & Instruction or Educational Leadership for practicing teachers and administrators.

Linda Samek: Dr. Linda Samek is currently Dean of Graduate Studies and Director of Teacher

Ollie Gibbs: In 1980, Mr. Ollie Gibbs, former head of the Christian Education Department, announced the addition of tha two-year program which would lead to an Associate of arts Degree in Early Childhood Education.

The College Library has served as a necessary resource for students and has seen substantial growth over the years. Recent developments with online access has greatly enhanced the access to information. Today’s library has 100,000 volumes, with an additional 500,000 titles online, about 22,000 full-text electronic journals, 600 print journals and 5,600 e-books.

Evelyn Haynes served as librarian in El Cerrito and in Oregon until 1975.

Richard Muntz served as librarian for many years and currently serves as Associate Librarian. He plans to retire in June of this year after 30 years of service.

Floyd Votaw: Current librarian Floyd Votaw has served for 14 years. He has seen the development of all of the online access capabilities for the College.


1983

1985

1981

1984

1982

InFocus Tabloid, 1983

Outreach & Mission Trips

Hitting the Street: Reaching out in service to others has been a tradition from its beginning years at the College. These 1945 photos show students conducting Saturday night “street meetings.”

Still Serving: This 1955 photo from the Oakland campus shows another student-led street team.

Community Outreach: El Cerrito outreach activity included Joy clubs, an after school neighborhood child evangelism program.

Street Teams in the 1960’s.

1990

1985

1987

1988

1986

1989


InFocus Tabloid, 1989

Rescue Mission Team: In 1973, outreach included students forming a Rescue Mission Team. Members included: Claudia Games, George Hough, Jenni Jones, Bill Higgins, Wayne Rose, Howard Hassel, George Crandall, Cleve Clucas, John McCaslin, John Wilson, Lester Cooley, and Don Estes.

Missions Outreach: Jason Dorsey leads a group planning session for the Student Missionary Outreach team in 1987.

Ministry Today: Seventy-seven current students used their 2005 spring break to go throughout the world on short term missions trips which included Mexico, Italy, Los Angeles, Utah and Africa. The Utah team paused for this photo with the Mormon Tabernacle as a backdrop.

Mexico Team: The 1999 Mexico missions team.

Outreach & Mission Trips

1993

1995

1991

1994

1992


InFocus Newsletter, 1991 The Western Voice, Nov. ‘91 Western Today Newspaper, 1994

Students/Chapels

Phoenix Students: Phoenix Baptist Bible Institute’s Freshman class of 1945-46.

Student Body: In Oakland, the student body gathered for this photo, circa 1953.

El Cerrito Chapel: The student population shows growth in this chapel photo, circa 1961.

C.E. Jeffers Sports Center: Salem students have used the C.E. Jeffers Sports Center for Chapel since 1990.

Psalm Center: The first chapel in the new Psalm Performing Arts Center will be held in April, 2005 (after our press date for this issue). The new Psalm Performing Arts Center will be a welcome addition for Chapel as well as music and drama events.


2000

1995

1997

1998

1996

1999

Western Today News, Western Today Mag, 2000

Athletics & Sports Teams Through the Years

Athletics has been an integral part of campus life throughout

its history and includes 12 NAIA conference championships

and 5 national (NCCAA) championships. The programs

have grown from one sport in 1947 to 11 collegiate sports

for Fall of 2005.

The 1948 yearbook has no photo, but outlines the first

known sports team for WBBC. It reads: “A number of the

fellows here at the school became ambitious last term and

decided we needed a basketball team here at the school.

One of the reasons was that the Y.M.C.A. was sponsoring a

church basketball league.

Clarence Jeffers and Jack Porter got things rolling,

collected money for the entrance fee, got a team together

and just like that, we were in the league. The team didn’t

do too well but it was a good start. From here on we are

planning on having some good basketball teams here. We

have some good material and a little practice together will

bring some victories to our team.”

The fellows who were the backbone of the team this year

were: Clarence Jeffers, Victor Hubbard, Willy Hoff, Loren

Brown, Jimmy Billet, Ed Wulbirn, and Lorin Goree.

The box scores show that WBBC won four of the nine

games that first year.

1950 Football: Clarence Kuns, Frank Emitte, Bloyce Winnett, Wayne Peirson. Back: Phillip Smith, Gaylord Johnson, Dwight Hollenback, and Bernard McChristian.

1950 Basketball: Frank Emitte, Bloyce Winnett, Wayne Peirson, Dwight Hollenback. Back: Clarence Kuns, Phillip Smith, Gaylord Johnson, Clarence Jeffers, Vic Hubbard.

Sports


2003

2005

2001

2004

2002

Anxiously Watching: The 1974 yearbook caption read: “Anxiously watching the first LABC (Los Angeles Baptist College) game are: Mgr. Dave Hart, Randy Rebold, guards Harold Haws, Mike Bartlett, Steve Canfield and Ken Glass, forward Jim Dailey, center Corky Lambert and coach Jack Thiessen.”

Baseball: The 1989 Baseball team included (front) Dan Britton, Mike Mellison, Bryant Brogan, Scott Miller, Erik Carter, Calvin Word, Jason Dorsey, and Dave Schmidt. (Back) Tim Smith, Cary Goddard, Pete Rasmussen, Steve Nielsen, Dan Peters, Joe Scarry, Ben Bryson, Tyson Pruett, Justin Sherwood, Kent Wieber, and Coach Denny Rasmussen.

Women’s Soccer: 2001 Women’s Soccer Team.

Champions: 1995 NAIA conference soccer champions.

Athletics today include 11 intercollegiate sports administered by Athletics Director John Nelson.

Current sports teams:

Women’s Soccer

Men’s Soccer

Women’s Basketball

Men’s Basketball

Softball

Baseball

Cross Country Volleyball

CORBANDedicated to keeping alumni and friends informed

Record Setting Enrollment 4 | Alumnus Gives Back 10 | Summer Plans 16 | New Program Added 18

Summer 2005Volume I - Number 1

Corban Magazine, 2005


The success we enjoy today is the culmination of many decades of work, and the continued blessing of God upon the work. As we approach the transition day to adopt our new name, Corban College (May 7th), we continue our mission “to educate Christians who will make a difference in the world for Jesus Christ.” We are acutely aware that the changes being made now, and in the future, will affect the relationship we will have with our constituents and community. The College has a solid reputation for its emphasis on biblically integrated programs, policies and a commitment to educating Christian students. Academic programs are being continually improved and new ones are being added. Three distinct divisions now include: traditional, adult degree completion, and graduate studies in Education. As our graduate program develops, it will eventually lead to university status for Corban College. We are proud to be a part of the greater Salem/Keizer community. All of our students are required to provide 150 hours of community and church volunteer service and over 1200 alumni reside in the local area. Our vision for Corban College is to increase our enrollment and see our graduates dedicate their hearts and minds to God. Our overall alumni association has grown to over 6,000 and enrollment is projected to approach 800 next year. In four weeks, a special addition of the first CORBAN magazine will more thoroughly present today’s College, its people, and its mission. If you would like to receive the magazine, and are not on our mailing list, email [email protected] or call 503-375-7003.

Note: After May 7, all email addresses will change from (f.initial last name)@wbc.edu to (f. initial last name)@corban.edu

Western Baptist College Today

CORBAN

Dedicated to keeping alumni and friends informed

Record Setting Enrollment 4 | Alumnus Gives Back 10 | Summer Plans 16 | New Program Added 18

Summer 2005Volume I - Number 1


ADAMS: Jenny Adams (’53), suf-fered a stroke on January 11, 2005, and slipped softly into the presence of the Lord she served so faithfully and selflessly. Jenny served under Baptist Mid-Missions in Peru from 1954 to 1993. While retired and living at Crista in North Seattle, she continued to min-ister to others and volunteer her services from her wheel chair. A memorial service was held at Bethany Bible Church in Kenmore, WA, on January 17. She came to Christ in 1951 at Bethany and was sent to the field by the church after graduating from Western Baptist Bible College. She was well-known for her unique letters, her practical wisdom, her “end of the Road Bible Institute” high in the Andes, and her courageous driving on nearly non-existent roads. She was one of a kind.

Hyer: Mrs. evelyn Hyer (1916-2005) came to Salem in 1976 to volun-teer for one year in the Western Baptist library. Eleven years later she returned to Ceres, CA, and the First Baptist Church where she was a member for seventy years. On January 2 she died at the Golden Care Nursing Home in Modesto. Evelyn served as a circulation clerk and technical services clerk in the library, a much loved and valued staff member. She was named Volunteer of the Year by the college. Perhaps an even greater contribution was her personal ministry to staff and students, especially those living in the Tamara Apartments, by whom she was known as “Grandma” Hyer. Evelyn also was active as a Mu-tual-Care member of Bethany Baptist Church during her years in Salem.

LewiS-MoLeS: Diane Lewis-Moles passed away February 20, 2005. She was completing her BA degree at WB through the Adult Studies program. Di-ane was a devoted mother and wife and

Borges/Glass: re-bekah (Borges ’99) to Cameron Glass on December 31, 2004.

Compton/McBride: Laura (Compton ’02) to Jason McBride on August 2, 2003.

Locati/Morris: Amy (Locati ’00) to Jed Morris on June 28, 2003.

Martinsen/Likkel: Colleen (Martinsen ’04) to Todd Likkel on May 21, 2004.

oman/ongman: Darcy (Oman ’01) to Jamie Ongman on March 20, 2004.

Tunem/Stevens: Ka-trina (Tunem ’02) to Luke Stevens (’02) on February 28, 2003.

Troja/Allen: Amy (Troja ’01) to George Allen on February 5, 2005.

Smith/Cornelius: Danielle (Smith ’04) to Andrew Cornelius (’04) on July 24, 2005.

wagner/Compton: Sarah (Wagner ’02) to Caleb Compton on April 10, 2004.

wilson/Steen: Heather (Wilson ’03) to David Steen (’03) on June 12, 2004.

Schipper/Parker: Karen (Schipper ’02) to Steve Parker on July 3, 2004.

BIRTHS

BUTCHArT: Michaela Jenne to Gary (’95) and Dani on December 10, 2005.

CrACiUM: Evan Scott to Philip and elizabeth (Monroe ’04) on June 10, 2004.

FiLLeMAN: McKenna Lynn to Jeff and Tonya (Stutzman ’99) on September 26, 2004.

ForDiCe: Emma Joy to Scott (’98) and Megan on December 18, 2004.

KerSHNer: Heidi Kuria to Jeff (’02) and odessa (Rau ’02) on December 16, 2004.

MArTiN: Renae Leann to Darren (’99) and Karen (Bayha ’99) on October 5, 2004.

McreyNoLDS: Caden Andrew to Chris (’99) and Amy (Mader ’97) on October 21, 2004.

rAiNBow: Isabel Grace to Toby (’99) and Jennifer (Wright ’00) on February 21, 2005.

rUDKiN: David Christian to Brad (’91) and Jenny (Peter-son ’90) on January 14, 2005.

STeiNer: Josiah John to Dan (’03) and Anna on August 18, 2004.

TySoN: Olivia Louise to Bryan and rene’ (Whittaker ’00) on December 11, 2004.

MARRIAGES WITH THE LORD

Heidi Kuria

Emma Joy

Borges/Glass

Isabel Grace

Evan Scott

Schipper/Parker

Martinsen/Likkel

CLASS NOTES NEWS FROM THE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

Renae Leann

David Christian

Tunem/Stevens

Smith/Cornelius

tember for Nigeria, West Africa, to teach Bible and Theology in the Gindiri State College of Education. Nigeria mandates the teaching of religion in its public schools, so Robert will be training pub-lic school teachers who will teach the Bible curriculum in each school’s Chris-tian Religious Knowledge program. The Lillos plan a trip to the west coast in June and would be glad to give their Powerpoint presentation to churches or other groups as they prepare to leave for their two-year teaching contract in Nigeria. Home phone: 715-426-2030 or e-mail: [email protected]

SMiTH: Sheldon (’73) is enjoying his retirement after working 38 years in the grocery business. Presently he volun-teers for the Red Cross doing PR and disaster relief. This past year he worked in Pennsylvania with the many problems caused by flooding and in Florida fol-lowing their hurricanes. Sheldon resides in Salem, OR.

SiNCLAir: Tammy (Stanley ’84) married her husband, Tony, in 1995 and resided in Virginia for three years while he served in the Navy. They now

live in Beaverton, OR, with their two little girls, ages five and two and a half. Tammy is primarily a stay-at-home mom, working part-time in a home busi-ness and also writing in her spare time. They are active at Beaverton Christian Church and friends can reach her at [email protected].


known to classmates, friends and family for her great conversation, readiness to laugh, and a gracious concern for others. Before beginning her college program, she served as Administrator for the Oregon House Committee on Human Resources, Chief of Staff for Senator Jeff Kruse, and also Chief of Staff for Representative, now County Com-missioner, Janet Carlson. A memorial service was held at the J. Frank Schmidt Pavilion of the Oregon Garden.

riCHArDS: robert richards, Jr. (’92-’93) passed away December 5, 2003. He grew up in Silverton, OR , graduated from Faith Christian High School in Woodburn and moved to California in 1965. He worked as an as-sistant manager in the credit department for a bank until he was diagnosed with a brain tumor. For years he fought a good fight, passing away surrounded by his family. He thrived on socializing with family and friends. Helping with church youth groups gave him great joy. His desire was for people to know God.

SMiTH: Paula Smith (’86) went home to be with the Lord unexpectedly on January 7, 2005. Paula and her twin sister, Pam (Smith) Beck both attended WB with the desire to become teachers. After receiving an AA degree from WB, Paula took evening classes and with great perseverance achieved her goal, graduating in 1995 from Boise State University with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education. She began teaching first grade in the fall of 1996 and loved being a teacher. She was very active in her church. Her family and friends will remember her as a person that always gave—even when she had little to spare. weST: Lois west (’64) died April 11, 2004, as the result of a fall at home. She had been facing multiple and com-plex health problems for several years, some of which caused disabilities and

1980s

much pain. She entered the presence of the Lord while in a coma. She left behind her husband, Steve (’64), and one son, Ken. Lois had been active in Rogue Valley Community Church in the town of Rogue River, OR, since 1970. She was a bank employee for 16 years, and managed the campus book-store while at WBBC.

wrAy: Gordon wray (1913-2005) passed away in Salem, OR, on January 4 at the age of 91. He was ordained in 1934 and accepted his first pastorate when he was 21. Gordon and his wife, Martha, dedicated their lives to serving the Lord in the Philippines and in the homeland. His ministries both at home and abroad were as missionary, pas-tor/educator, and chaplain. He served for several years as head of the Missions Department at WB. He was preceeded in death by his wife, Martha, and survived by five children, nine grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren.

weBer: Shirley (Dick ’67) writes from Bangladesh: “I really enjoyed the latest issue of the magazine, especially with the news of the name change and the choir reunion with Mr. Caulkins. Wish I could have been there—but it’s a bit far from Bangladesh.” Shirley and her husband, George, have been missionaries in Bangladesh for 32 years, have three children—all married and living in the US, and four grandchildren.

LiLLo: rob (’74) finished his Ph.D. work at Central Baptist Seminary in Minneapolis, MN, last year. Since their three children have now graduated from high school, they plan to leave in Sep-

1970s

1960sALUMNI NEWS

WITH THE LORD


WITH THE LORD 1970s

He has excelled at his job and is a real testimony in a world of unbelievers. Susan homeschools the children and is a director in the AWANA program. They would love to be in contact with more of their WB friends. Contact them at: [email protected].

STrAw: eric ( MAC ’95) and Margie (Glass ’84), along with their four children, took a wonderful family trip to The Farm Lodge in Port Alsworth, Alaska. Their kids are all ready to move there! Eric teaches in the computer sci-ence program at WB and does computer research and consulting on the side. Margie cares for the family and teaches piano. They are celebrating twenty years of marriage.

GABeL: Kristianna (Yates ’00) moved to Spokane about two years ago where she met a wonderful man and married in August of 2004. She now has two sons, Micah (12) and Jusiah (5). She is very thankful for the many bless-ings God has brought to her life. She would love to hear from any alums—[email protected].

HoweLL: Markus (’02) lives in Klamath Falls, OR, with his wife, Brenda, and 9-month-old son, Devin. Markus started working toward his Mas-ters Degree in Business Administration this past spring. God has blessed them more than they could ever imagine.

PArKer: Karen (Schipper ’02) and her husband, Steve, live in Golden, CO, where Karen teaches physical education and coaches high school soccer.

wAGNer: ryan (’02) and Michelle (St.Clair ’03) moved from Salem, OR, last May and now reside in Anchorage, AK. They are doing very well and look forward to the arrival of identical twin

BeSSeTT: rachel (Candee ’99) and Shane Bessett married August 3, 2003, and they moved to Kansas City, MO. Shane works as a pharmaceuti-cal chemist and Rachel as an adult parole officer.

CAyNor: rick (’92) was chosen by ABWE to lead all of their tsunami relief teams in southeast Asia. He spent almost seven weeks in India. He returned the first part of March and continues to coordinate and train teams for the next few months. You can read some grip-ping stories from his journal at www.cityonahill.abwe.org. Rick and his wife, Lisa (Riffle ’92), say Western Baptist will always play an important role in all they do.

Derr: Jason (’96) and Kari (Leini-nger ’96) have lived in Hawaii on the island of Kauai for the past four years. They built a home there and expect their first child in June. Kari teaches in an elementary school in Kapa and Jason works (telecommute) as a Business Analyst for a McGraw-Hill company subsidiary. They invite anyone visiting their island to call them (808-821-1190). Their e-mails are: [email protected] or [email protected].

KroeKer: Jeff (’99) and Susan (Casad ’99) live in Bend, OR, with their three children—twins Alleigh and Ben

(7) and Rebecca (3). Jeff works at United Pipe as an assistant manager, training for a manager position in his own store within the next four years.


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2000s

1990s

Jaden

boys on July 1! Ryan is the General Manager of a Wells Fargo Bank in Anchorage. They would love to hear from their college friends. Michelle’s e-mail is [email protected] and Ryan can be reached at [email protected].


1990s 2000s

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Please join us on May 7th for

an Open House celebrating

the beginning of the

CORBAN COLLEGE era of

our history. Starting at 12:30

(after commencement) until 2:00 p.m., there

will be a complementary luncheon, music, and

Corban giveaways at the new amphitheater, as

well as a retrospective video and tour in the

new Psalm Performing Arts Center. You are

also welcome to stay for a 2:00 p.m. softball

game and enjoy spending time with friends.

Class Notes

Send us alumni notices of births, marriages, and deaths, and news of the

rest of your life! Send form (or additional sheet) to:

Alumni Office, WBC 5000 Deer Park Drive SE

Salem, OR 97301 or send us your news and

photos electronically to: [email protected]

Grad or Last Year Attending:

My News:

Please include my email address on the Alumni website directory

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Open House May 7th

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