Carry On Winter 2022

WINTER 2022 

CARRY ON 

LIFE PACIFIC UNIVERSITY 

“For he was looking forward to the city with foundations, 

whose architect and builder is God.” 

HEBREWS 11:10 NIV 

IN THIS ISSUE: 

The Next 100: 

Transforming the Generations p.3 

One Body on Mission: 

LPU Building Forward p.6 

The Power of Partnership: 

Immersive Training & Affliate Programs p.14

Dear LPU Family, 

As we cross over into a new year, I am encouraged by the hope and possibility that 

2022 holds for us. Having served the LPU community for more than two decades, 

and as President these past two years, I am in awe of the profound move of God we 

are experiencing right now at LPU and what His Presence means for our future. I 

thank the Lord every day for His continued faithfulness! While the past season has 

been challenging, we are witnessing our students embrace their calling with great 

enthusiasm and a revived faith on both the East and West campuses. 

This year, we are building forward. Aligning with the truth found in 

Hebrews 11:10 which says, “For he was looking forward to the city with 

foundations, whose architect and builder is God”, we are planning and 

working with a renewed sense of purpose and destiny. We are building 

forward in partnerships, programs, and staying on mission by preparing 

our students to serve Christ in the Church, the workplace, and the world. 

We are seeing an explosive growth of regional, national, and international 

partnerships with educational institutions and ministry opportunities for 

our students. Preparing our students to be successful post-graduation is 

at the forefront of our efforts. So much so, that LPU has been recognized 

by U.S. News and World Report as a top regional leader for social 

mobility. This means that our students’ socio-economic standing shifts 

upward after graduation. Truly, we are impacting current students and 

generations to come through them! 

Our heart is just that - to impact the next 100 years even greater than we’ve been 

doing since 1923. You’ll see this desire in our Strategic Plan as well as in the stories 

that highlight the amazing work of our alumni like Naomi Lyford on page 4, and 

current students like Jessica Acosta on page 8. You won’t want to miss watching 

their video testimonies! 

I hope you’ll find this issue of Carry On worth sharing. More than ever before, the 

world needs what God is doing through LPU. With this issue of Carry On being 

digital, making LPU known is easy! You can copy and paste the shareable Carry On 

link into an email or text and send to your family and friends. 

My prayer for you is that you will know the love and light of Jesus. And together, we 

will build forward His Kingdom. 

Rise with Courage, 

Angie Richey ‘97 

LPU President 

Scan for a 

special video 

message from 

President 

Angie! 

vimeo.com/552606185/9f73ea899c 

1 / CARRY ON MAGAZINE

LPU ADMINISTRATIVE COUNCIL 

Angie Richey ‘97, M.Ed., M.A., L.M.F.T. 

President 

Dr. Daniel Ruarte ‘15, Ed.D. 

Vice President of Academic Affairs 

Rachel Au, M.A. 

Chief Financial Officer 

CARRY ON 

WINTER 2022 

George Bostanic, M.A. 

Vice President of Student Development 

Brian Tomhave, ‘90, M.A. 

Dean of Institutional Effectiveness 

Bruce Primrose ’99, M.Ed. 

Enrollment Director and Senior Registrar 

Heidi Bonadie, Member SHRM 

Human Resources Director 

Lynnette Lozoya, M.A ’13, CFRE 

Executive Director of Development 

4 7 10 

IN THIS ISSUE 

Marcus Robinson, M.A. 

Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion 

Jeffrey Bird, MBA 

Interim Chair of Business Administration 

Faculty Representative 

Rick Meyer ‘77 

Director of Facilities, Campus Safety 

Staff Representative 

MAGAZINE STAFF 

Lynnette Lozoya, M.A. ’13, CFRE 

Executive Director of Development 

Kristi Montes, M.A. 

Assistant Director, Advancement and Alumni 

Relations, Chief Editor 

Melissa Rufener ‘12 

Advancement Services Coordinator, 

Assisting Editor 

Tayler dela Cruz ‘21 

Advancement Services Administrator, 

Contributing Author 

Andres Ruiz 

Marketing Director 

The Next 100: Transforming the Generations 

LPU Alumna Naomi Lyford: Serving in Cambodia 

MLSP: Master of Arts in Leadership Spanish 

One Body on Mission 

In the Spotlight/News Worth Sharing 

LPU: Standing Out and Rising Above 

Giving Impact 

It’s a New Day at LPU-VA 

Athletics Warrior Report 

The Power of Partnership 

Alumni Updates 

Your Giving Counts 

Save the Dates 

3 

4 

5 

6 

7-8 

9 

10 

11-12 

13 

14 

15-16 

17 

18 

Michael Gilbert 

Graphic Designer 

Lorraine Felix 

Graphic Designer 

Life Pacific University is an institution of biblical higher education existing for the 

transformational development of students into leaders prepared to serve God in the 

Church, the workplace, and the world. 

lifepacific.edu 

WINTER 2022 / 2

THE NEXT 

TRANSFORMING THE GENERATIONS 

Approved by LPU’s Board of Trustees in 

February 2021, The Next 100: Transforming 

the Generations Strategic Plan provides the 

university with a course of action to guide 

institutional efforts and assure long-term viability 

over the next five to seven years. Developed 

by the Strategic Planning Committee made up 

of representatives from the Board of Trustees, 

executives, faculty, staff, the student body 

president, and alumni, the Plan contains five 

strategic goals with supporting objectives and 

specific initiatives to accomplish each objective. 

According to President Angie Richey, the Plan 

is “flexible and thoughtful with the purpose of 

engaging the whole community to meaningful 

action.” Aligning with the mission and vision of 

the university, the Plan builds upon LPU’s rich 

heritage, pentecostal ethos, and commitment to 

empowering generations of Christ followers. 

LPU CULTURE 

MISSION 

Life Pacific University is an institution of 

biblical higher education existing for the 

transformational development of students into 

leaders prepared to serve God in the Church, 

the workplace, and the world. 

VISION 

Life Pacific University will be recognized 

worldwide as a premier pentecostal institution, 

within the Foursquare tradition, characterized 

by a diverse community of Spirit-empowered 

students, scholars, and practitioners whose 

hearts and minds are devoted to Christ and 

His Kingdom. 

VALUES 

Excellence, Unity, Service, Empowerment, 

and Celebration. 

FIVE STRATEGIC GOALS 

OF THE PLAN 

ONE: LPU will achieve long-term sustainability 

through resource stewardship, quality programs, 

and institutional advancement. 

TWO: LPU will develop a vibrant culture and solid 

infrastructure that manages the complexity of a 

university model. 

THREE: LPU will demonstrate high levels of student 

success and wellness through transformative 

learning experiences and quality support structures. 

FOUR: LPU will pursue missional advancement 

through strategic partnerships. 

FIVE: LPU will strengthen its brand visibility and 

reputation in the marketplace, recognized for its 

creativity and quality. 

Scan to read 

the plan in its 

entirety or visit: 

3 / CARRY ON MAGAZINE 

lifepacific-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/ 

LPU_StrategicPlan_2021.pdf

LPU ALUMNA NAOMI (HOKYO) LYFORD ’07: 

SERVING IN CAMBODIA 

Called to missions at the age 

of 8, Naomi Hokyo knew she’d 

serve God by going to the 

nations. Graduating from Life 

Pacific in 2007, she worked 

abroad many years through 

YWAM, starting schools in 

Africa and then Malaysia, 

before working with the 

Burmese people in Myanmar. 

When Naomi met Uriah Lyford, 

another YWAM missionary, the 

couple knew God had positioned 

them to partner together in life 

and in ministry. Now married 

with two daughters, Uriah and 

Naomi consider themselves 

a “family on mission” as they 

work to strengthen and expand 

their ministry in Cambodia. 

Ministry efforts keep them 

busy, and God continues to 

bless their labor. Even though 

the Lyfords are experiencing 

a fruitful harvest for their work, 

Naomi is quick to explain, “It’s not 

just numbers. It’s about the people. 

We are connected to these people 

in a way that we are going to get to 

walk with them.” 

“IT’S ABOUT THE PEOPLE.” 

Currently, Naomi and Uriah 

are focused on establishing a 

youth movement to help young 

Cambodians understand their 

identity as children of God and as 

Cambodians. Seeking to empower 

young people so that they will not 

just survive but thrive is at the heart 

of this endeavor. The strategic 

importance of this vision is immense 

considering the nation’s history of 

war characterized by a targeted 

persecution of the educated adults 

in the nation, leaving behind scores 

of orphaned, impoverished, and 

disenfranchised children. 

Naomi’s connection to the LPU 

community remains strong and 

she is grateful for her time at LIFE 

as a college student, “I believe the 

education and training I received 

at LIFE is directly connected to 

the ‘success’ I’m having now in 

ministry.” According to Naomi, 

LPU is “the kind of institution that 

will adequately train you for life, 

to be a light and example in your 

community and in the world in 

whatever vocation you choose.” 

CAMBODIA 

WITHIN THE PAST YEAR, 

NAOMI & URIAH 

IMPACTED... 

42,000 

STUDENTS 

2,500 

FAMILIES 

40 

FT STAFF/STUDENTS 

4 MILLION+ 

REACH 

Enrolled over 

42,000 students in 

their online school. 

Provided a 1-month supply 

of food to 2,500+ families 

in the poorest communities 

most affected by COVID-19. 

Led a discipleship 

community of over 

40 full-time staff & 

students. 

Managed a social 

media platform which 

has reached over 4 

million people. 

Watch this interview to learn more about 

how God is using the Lyfords in Cambodia: 

vimeo.com/668025198/8583d18823 

Scan to 

watch. 


MLSP: 

MASTER OF ARTS IN LEADERSHIP - SPANISH 

BUILDING FORWARD A GLOBAL LEGACY 

PICTURED ABOVE: The second MLSP cohort represents eleven different nationalities and is comprised of men and women who are pastors, educators, and national 

leaders in business, science, education, and government. 

For almost 100 years, there 

has been an inseparable bond 

between LPU’s classrooms and 

the mission field. Faithfully, LPU 

has equipped and sent students as 

Spirit-led, biblically trained, highcapacity 

leaders into the world. 

Today, in the entrepreneurial spirit 

of our founder Aimee Semple 

McPherson, and because of a 

significant gift from a generous 

supporter, LPU offers a completely 

Spanish online academic program, 

strengthening our ability to develop 

international leaders who come to 

us from around the world. 

For years, Hispanic Foursquare 

leaders in the U.S. and abroad 

prayed and worked for a resource 

to help equip Spanish-speaking 

pastors, executives, and leaders. 

Implemented in 2018-19, LPU’s 

Master of Arts in Leadership- 

Spanish (MLSP) degree is a fully 

accredited, cross-cultural program 

providing academic and professional 

leadership training within a biblicaltheological 

framework. 

More than just providing additional 

learning opportunities for students 

from around the world, the MLSP 

degree clearly fulfills the vision 

of LPU as it is “characterized by 

a diverse community of Spiritempowered 

students, scholars, 

and practitioners whose hearts and 

minds are devoted to Christ and His 

Kingdom.” Grateful for the privilege 

of participating in this innovative 

program, the pioneer cohort of 13 

students from Colombia, Mexico, 

Argentina, and El Salvador as well 

as California, Oregon, Virginia, and 

Texas graduated in May 2021. 

To learn more about the MLSP, visit: 

lifepacific.edu/academic-programs/maestr%C3%ADa-en-liderazgo 

or scan the QR-code to visit webpage. 


DR. DANIEL PRIETO 

Administratively housed at the LPU San Dimas 

campus, the MLSP program is led by Dr. Daniel Prieto, 

the program’s full-time director, and supported by a 

part-time student service and faculty coordinator, 10 

adjunct faculty, an admissions counselor, a writing 

mentor, a librarian, and a financial aid counselor.

ONE BODY ON MISSION 

As we reflect upon the unique 

and challenging season 

experienced during COVID-19, 

I can’t help but think that the 

mission of Life Pacific University 

is greatly needed. 

Challenging times have always 

called for well-prepared leaders 

who will continue to be strong in 

the midst of the storm. 

Since our beginning, LIFE has 

been committed to developing 

leaders who serve the Lord. From 

our founder and first president, 

Aimee Semple McPherson, to 

our current president, Angie 

Richey, developing leaders to 

advance the Kingdom has been 

at the center of our endeavors. 

Unfortunately, challenges can 

hold back progress, but I believe 

this season is an opportunity for 

us to build forward. By uniting and 

working together, we can partner 

as one body and one team to 

position LPU for fruitful ministry 

as we enter the next 100 years. 

I have been a Foursquare 

pastor, along with my wife 

Yadira, for over fifteen years, 

and have read and preached 

about Paul’s exhortation to the 

church at Ephesus. It is simple; 

we are one body. Christ is the 

head, and we all play a critical 

role as members of His body to 

further His mission. LPU is a key 

part of the body of Christ and our 

Foursquare movement. 

EPHESIANS 4:16 SAYS, 

“FROM HIM THE WHOLE BODY, 

JOINED AND HELD TOGETHER 

BY EVERY SUPPORTING 

LIGAMENT, GROWS AND 

BUILDS ITSELF UP IN LOVE, AS 

EACH PART DOES ITS WORK.” 

The same day Aimee dedicated 

Angelus Temple in 1923, 

she dedicated a training and 

development center now known 

as LPU. Aimee believed that 

training and developing leaders 

was a vital part of her ministry. 

Today, LPU continues forward in 

that mission. 

Whether you work for LPU, are 

an alumnus, a friend of this great 

university, a Foursquare pastor or 

leader, or a local church member, 

please consider praying for us 

on a regular basis. Pray for our 

students, staff, and faculty, that 

we will continue to be an effective 

and fruitful ministry for years to 

come. Pray for the Lord to provide 

all the resources we need, for 

students with a heart to seek 

and serve the Lord to choose us, 

that we hire the right teams, and 

together faithfully continue the 

mission until our King returns. 

Through your prayers, you will 

become a part of LPU’s mission 

to build forward. We can’t do it 

without you! 

Your brother in Christ, 

Dr. Daniel Ruarte, Ed.D. 

Enjoy this Build Forward 

video message: 

Scan to watch 

video. 

vimeo.com/592830737 

DR. DANIEL RUARTE 

Named Vice President of Academic Affairs in June 2020, Dr. Daniel Ruarte has served the LPU community 

since 2018. An alumnus of the MA in Strategic Leadership (’15), Dr. Ruarte first came to LPU as a full-time 

faculty member to develop, direct, and teach the MA in Leadership (Spanish). He also has a M.A. from Azusa 

Pacific Seminary and a Ed.D. from University of Southern California. Also an ordained Foursquare minister, 

Dr. Ruarte lives with his wife, Yadira, and two children David and Sarah in Chino, CA. 


NEWS WORTH SHARING >>> 

GIVING TUESDAY: GOAL EXCEEDED 

This year at Life Pacific University, 

we exceeded our highest ever Giving 

Tuesday goal of $100,000 to raise 

more than $150,000 supporting the 

transformational development of future 

leaders. The money raised will be used 

to fund five key university projects: 

Scholarships, Athletics, LPU-VA, Media 

Campaign, and Student Care. Thank you 

to our faithful and generous partners for 

being on mission with us! 

NATIONAL FOURSQUARE 

HISPANIC DISTRICT YOUTH 

CONFERENCE 

Over 300 Foursquare Hispanic 

youth and young adults from 

across the United States 

gathered on the LPU San Dimas 

campus in November for the 

first-ever Empower Conference. 

During this weekend, attendees 

were challenged, equipped, and 

empowered to take the love of 

Jesus to the world. 

IN THE SPOTLIGHT 

LPU SENIOR, JESSICA ACOSTA 

MASS COMMUNICATION MAJOR 

It is only because of the Dream Big Scholarship that Jessica is able to finish her degree program this year. 

Even more importantly, the provision of her scholarship has been a witness to her family that God exists 

and cares for His children. After graduation, Jessica wants to use her degree and gift of storytelling to help 

others learn how much God loves them and cares for them. 


LPU STUDENTS SERVE OUR CITY DURING NEW STUDENT ORIENTATION 

City Serve during New Student Orientation helps students demonstrate LPU’s value of love in action. 

PROFESSOR RYAN LYTTON PROMOTED TO ASSISTANT PROFESSOR & DIRECTOR OF ACADEMIC SERVICES 

AT LPU EAST (VIRGINIA) CAMPUS 

In his tenth academic year of teaching at LPU-VA, Ryan Lytton (’07) is experiencing a dream come true as 

he trains future pastors. As the first full-time faculty member at LPU-VA, Lytton will continue his Director of 

Academic Services role. Vice President of Academic Affairs, Dr. Daniel Ruarte, says, “Ryan is a professor 

and administrator at heart. We have seen firsthand what he is capable of doing and he is more than deserving 

of this promotion.” Lytton has also served in various pastoral roles and is helping former students plant a 

church. He has an M.A. in Christian Thought from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary and is currently 

pursuing a Ph.D. in Theology at Ridley College. 

CLICK THE VIDEO TO HEAR 

JESSICA’S STORY: 

(CLICK ON PLAY BUTTON) 


LPU: STANDING OUT & 

RISING ABOVE 

Building forward from its beginning almost 100 

years ago, LPU’s current vision to “be recognized 

worldwide as a premier Pentecostal institution within 

the Foursquare tradition, characterized by a diverse 

community of Spirit-empowered students, scholars, 

and practitioners whose hearts and minds are 

devoted to Christ and His Kingdom” is being fulfilled. 

RISING IN THE RANKS, U.S. NEWS AND WORLD 

REPORT BEST COLLEGES LISTS LPU AS 7TH AMONG 

TOP PERFORMERS IN SOCIAL MOBILITY (UP FROM 

A 9TH PLACE RANKING THE PREVIOUS YEAR), 11TH 

FOR THE BEST VALUE AND ECONOMIC DIVERSITY IN 

THE WEST, WITH AN OVERALL PLACEMENT OF 17TH 

IN THE BEST REGIONAL COLLEGES IN THE WEST 

(FIVE PLACES HIGHER SINCE 2020). 

With two campuses located in San Dimas, CA 

and Christiansburg, VA as well as a vast network 

of training partnerships spanning the globe, LPU 

is ensuring the transformational development of 

students into leaders prepared to serve God in the 

Church, the workplace, and the world. Certainly, 

it is the faithfulness and sustaining power of God 

as well as the diligent efforts of LPU faculty and 

staff that makes LPU the place it is and continues 

to become. Alongside the recognitions from U.S. 

News and World Report, LPU stands out among 

other Christian colleges and universities by holding 

numerous accreditations, authorizations, and 

memberships validating its status and visibility as 

a premier institution of higher education. 

ACCREDITATIONS 

• WASC - Western Association of Schools and 

Colleges 

• ABHE - Association for Biblical Higher Education 

MEMBERSHIPS 

• AACRAO - American Association of Collegiate 

Registrars & Admissions Officers 

• CASE - Council for Advancement and Support of 

Education 

• CCCU - Council for Christian Colleges & Universities 

(affiliate) 

• CHEA - Council for Higher Education Accreditation 

• CIC - Council for Independent Colleges 

• ECFA - Evangelical Council for Financial 

Accountability 

• PACRAO - Pacific Association of Collegiate 

Registrars & Admissions Officers 

• SCUP - Society for College and University Planning 

• SCELC - Statewide California Electronic Library 

Consortium 

• UPCEA - University Professional and Continuing 

Education Association 

Authorization for Extension Campus Certified to 

operate by the State Council of Higher Education 

for Virginia. 

To read more about how LPU is rising 

through the ranks, visit: 

lifepacific.edu/article/life-pacific-university-continues-risethrough-ranks-among-national-colleges-and 

Scan to visit 

webpage. 

In 1923, the Echo Park Evangelistic and Missionary Training Institute opened its doors with 

almost 100 ministerial students enrolled in classes. Created to serve the rapidly growing 

Foursquare Church movement founded by Aimee Semple McPherson, the institute continued 

to evolve and expand, eventually becoming what is now known as Life Pacific University. 


GIVING IMPACT 

Thank you for being a part of what God is doing through LPU. Your gifts and prayers make a significant impact 

in the lives of LPU students. Together, we are raising up a generation of transformational leaders prepared to 

serve God in the Church, the workplace, and the world. Here is a glimpse of the difference your generosity has 

made this year. 

MAKING DREAMS COME TRUE 

In August, President Angie learned that 29 students, including 

seniors who were starting their final semester before graduation, 

were in danger of not returning in the fall due to finances. Your 

generous response raised more than $99,000 allowing these 

students to continue their education and pursue the dreams God 

has placed in their hearts. 

ONLY THE BEGINNING 

Officially opening in August 2021, the Aimee Semple 

McPherson Digital Media Studio System is already the heart 

of creativity and innovation for students. The Carol Shelton 

Digital Media Studio has been the primary filming location for 

student projects such as athletic photo shoots, the new Life 

Collective Music Video, “TAKE IT ALL”, and a Biblical Studies 

Certificate Program Masterclass. Also, the Computer Lab is 

open with students harnessing the power of M1 Macs and the 

Adobe Creative Suite for their ideas and projects. Renovation 

of the Rolf K. McPherson Chapel started in September with the 

unveiling of the LED Wall during Fall Preview in October. This 

new addition was made possible by the generosity of Pastor 

Bernie Federmann (‘78) and the Lompoc Foursquare Church. 

BRIDGING THE GAP 

While traveling to road games in October, the LPU Women’s 

Volleyball team had their luggage and personal items stolen from 

the rental van. Upon hearing about this unexpected and urgent 

situation, you stepped up and filled in the gap helping alleviate 

the burden of replacement costs for students and coaches. 


IT’S A NEW DAY AT 

LPU-VA 

Nestled in the New River Valley in Christiansburg, 

Virginia, the serene location of LPU-VA sets a 

marvelous stage to see God at work. But, more than 

the scenery, there’s a revived dedication to equip 

students to become influential leaders through LPU- 

VA’s innovative 2+2 program. 

Together, LPU-VA, the Foursquare Church, and 

dozens of ministry partners are collaborating 

with the Residency Network to cultivate the next 

generation of missional leaders. Whether serving in 

a local church congregation, the mission field, or in 

a business as mission context, students are being 

prepared to serve as leaders to expand the collective 

body of Christ. 

THE 2+2 PROGRAM ALLOWS STUDENTS TO SPEND 

THE FIRST TWO YEARS OF CLASSES GAINING A 

STRONG ACADEMIC & SPIRITUAL FOUNDATION IN A 

TRADITIONAL UNIVERSITY SETTING AND THE FINAL 

TWO YEARS IN A MINISTRY RESIDENCY WHILE 

COMPLETING A BACHELOR’S DEGREE ONLINE. 

Developing undergraduate student leaders who 

are passionate to serve and support those around 

them benefits individual students, their campus, 

students’ future employers (Chughtai, 2018), plus 

our collective culture (Kiersch & Peters, 2017). 


Higher education programs that 

utilize a multi-disciplinary approach 

facilitate best practices in servant 

leadership learning and training. 

At LPU-VA, the values of servant 

leadership are interwoven into all 

aspects of student engagement 

including chapels, classes, 

outreach projects, and leadership 

labs. What an abundant opportunity 

God has given us, as we continue 

to steward the gift of developing 

young women and men into worldchanging 

leaders! 

This year’s theme, Build Forward, is a 

reminder that God is doing a new thing. 

He is pouring out His Spirit in fresh ways 

for the seasons ahead. Philippians 3:12- 

17 reminds us that we are pressing 

forward together to reach the victory that 

is before us. By God’s grace, LPU-VA will 

build an environment that fosters each 

student’s relationship with God while 

practically developing their passion and 

skill for local community transformation 

and the global church. 

GRETCHEN ABNEY 

Joining the LPU-VA family in 2021, GRETCHEN ABNEY (M.A. ‘16) serves as the Director 

of Campus Life. With more than 25 years of ministry experience and currently 

pursuing a Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership from Southeastern University, she 

is well qualified to oversee the practical development of students into leaders by 

organizing dynamic chapels, leadership labs, and on-campus student activities. 

Married to Trey and the mother of three adult children, Gretchen also co-pastors 

Refuge West Foursquare Church with her husband. 


LPU HOSTS FIRST-EVER WARRIOR OPEN 

Men’s and Women’s Wrestling represented LPU 

well as they dominated with two championships 

throughout their first-ever Warrior Open in 

November. Coaches Roye Oliver, Jesse Jaime Jr., 

and Jesse Jaime Sr. are enthusiastically looking 

toward Nationals as the wrestlers “grow as a team 

and thrive, continuing to Build Forward.” 

WARRIOR REPORT: 

ATHLETICS 

LPU Athletics will advance the mission of Life Pacific 

University through intercollegiate competition that promotes 

integrity, discipline, and Christ-like character development. 

MORE THAN JUST ATHLETES 

Demonstrating determination and hard work while holding 

onto the integrity and boldness of LPU’s mission and 

vision, LPU’s Warrior family of sports teams rose above 

the challenges of the 2020 and 2021 seasons to display 

courageous faith and victory. Excelling not only in the gym 

and on the court, several athletes also achieved Dean’s 

List status clearly showing a true Warrior spirit. 

DEAN’S LIST RECOGNITION IS EARNED 

BY A STUDENT RECEIVING A GPA OF 3.65 

OR HIGHER IN THE PREVIOUS SEMESTER. 

CAITLIN RIDEN 

WOMEN’S INDOOR VOLLEYBALL 

For Caitlin, being on the Dean’s List means 

keeping priorities straight and balancing 

her schedule because she knows that 

hard work produces good character. 

ISAAC KEPHART 

MEN’S WRESTLING 

Isaac is motivated through past failures to 

push himself to be the best he can be on 

the mat and in the classroom. 

WARRIOR TICKETS GO VIRAL 

Through a new partnership with HomeTown 

Ticketing, LPU now offers exclusive online tickets for 

home sporting events. By presenting a QR code at 

the door, fans now experience streamlined ticketing 

alongside safer and easier access to LPU facilities. 

For information about upcoming sporting events, go 

to: lpuwarriors.com or visit the livestream channel 

at: gsacsportsnetwork.com/lifepacific. 

LPU WELCOMES NEW OUTDOOR SAND COURTS 

FOR BEACH VOLLEYBALL PROGRAM 

Throughout the summer and fall, LPU’s beach 

volleyball program held numerous volleyball 

clinics for local 5th-12th graders. Utilizing LPU’s 

new outdoor sand courts, the clinics specifically 

featured the fundamentals of playing beach 

volleyball including skill drills ranging from hitting 

techniques to rallying. The new outdoor courts 

were dedicated in a ribbon cutting ceremony on 

August 6th. 

TOP HONORS 

Seven of the LPU Women’s Volleyball Warriors 

received GSAC Student Athlete awards in 

November 2021. Additionally, Hannah Caddow 

and Sydney Culpepper were named to the 2021 

NAIA AVCA All-Region Women’s Volleyball Team. 

LPU WARRIOR TEAMS 


MEN’S 

BASKETBALL 

SOCCER 

WRESTLING 

BASKETBALL 

SOCCER 

WRESTLING 

WOMEN’S 

INDOOR VOLLEYBALL 

BEACH VOLLEYBALL

THE POWER OF 

PARTNERSHIP 

For nearly 100 years, LPU has prepared students to be 

effective leaders for the Kingdom of God. In obedience 

to the Great Commission, LPU continues to equip and 

send students throughout the world. However, we know 

that we cannot do this alone. Recognizing the power 

of collaboration, LPU is actively building an expansive 

network of training partnerships. 

These collaborations are creating new and unique 

opportunities for students to receive hands-on ministry 

experiences in conjunction with an accredited online or 

classroom education. Receiving more than just a college 

degree, students are transformed, equipped, and ready 

to answer God’s call on their life and serve Him in the 

Church, the workplace, and the world. 

TYPES OF LPU PARTNERSHIPS 

IMMERSIVE TRAINING PARTNERS 

LPU works directly with church and ministry staff to 

develop space for students as they serve in ministry, 

pursue their education, grow in community, and develop 

transferrable skills under the supervision of pastoral 

staff and committed leaders. 

AFFILIATE TRAINING PARTNERS 

LPU collaborates with an existing institute, ministry 

training school, or comparable organization to build 

onto an existing program so that students complete their 

degree through LPU online while remaining actively 

involved with the affiliate organization. 

STRATEGIC EDUCATIONAL PARTNERS 

LPU establishes multifaceted relationships with other 

academic institutions who align with the missional focus 

of developing students into leaders through Biblical 

education. 

LPU TRAINING PARTNERS AROUND THE WORLD 

• Abundant Living Family Church – Rancho Cucamonga, CA 

• The Bridge – Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 

• Calvary Chapel Bible College– Murrieta, CA 

• Colorado Multiethnic Certificate Program, Foursquare 

Missions International – online (pilot program) 

• Crescent City Foursquare Church – Crescent City, CA 

• Daybreak Church – Carlsbad, CA 

• Dream Center NYC / Grace Place NYC – New York, NY 

• East Hill Church – Gresham, OR 

• Faith Center – Eureka, CA 

• Grace Capital Church – Pembroke, NH 

• Living Waters Church – Medford, OR 

• Pacific Life Bible College – Canada 

• The River Ukiah – Ukiah, CA 

• Summit International School of Ministry – Grantville, PA 

• University of the Nations, Cambodia – Battembang, 

Cambodia 

• University of the Nations, Poipet – Poipet, Cambodia 

• University of the Nations, YWAM Montana – Lakeside, MT 

• Victory Education and Training Institute (VETI), Victory 

Outreach International – San Dimas, CA 

• Wellhouse Church – Sisters, OR 

While some of the listed partner programs have been impacted 

by COVID-19 in varying degrees, LPU continues to cultivate 

relationships with prospective partners and develop additional 

program opportunities for students. 

BOBBY HOWELL 

Director of Immersive Training 

Partner and Affiliate Programs, 

Bobby Howell (‘07) oversees the 

cultivation, development, and 

implementation of LPU’s various 

training partnerships. If your 

church or organization is interested 

in learning more about this exciting 

and innovative opportunity, contact 

Bobby at bhowell@lifepacific.edu. 

You may also call or text him at 

909-706-3103. 


ALUMNI UPDATES 

Rev. Bob & 

Saundra 

Hutchinson 

1970’s 

Cheryl (Soviak) Vincent ’70 invests her 

time and life in being an AACC Coach. 

Rev. Sally Arter ’74 is an Assistance 

Specialist at a senior center, and also an 

Independent Tax Preparer. 

Rev. Bob ’74, MASL ’14 and Saundra ’72 

Hutchison have faithfully honored their 

Mt. Vernon Bible College degrees with 

decades of ministry service primarily on 

the east coast. 

Rev. Joan (Erickson) Blackmon ’75 serves 

as Assisting Minister at her church in 

North Carolina. 

Rev. Cyndi (Ashmore) Valdez ’78 serves 

alongside her husband Greg in pastoral 

ministry in Yucaipa, CA. 

Rev. Ken Swett ’79 and Wanda (Jackson) 

‘77 Swett serve as senior pastors at 

Modesto Foursquare in California. 

Rev. Jim & 

Allison Wells 

1980’s 

Jim Henderson ’80 is a professor of Biblical 

Studies & Christian Ministry at Regent 

University. 

Rev. Jim Wells ’82, M.A. ’18 and Allison 

(Uelmen) Wells ’08 pastor New Hope 

Fellowship in Shingle Springs, CA. Jim is 

also a Missions Fundraising Coach for FMI. 

Kevin Barry ’86 is retired and pours his 

pastoral heart into various leadership 

positions in a local Reformed Evangelical 

Church in Southern California. 

Rev. John Mazariegos ’88 serves as a 

missionary in San Luis Potosí, Mexico. 

1990’s 

Rev. Tim Schwiebert ’90 is an Assisting 

Minister. 


(continued) 

Penelope 

Jane 

Tapp 

2000’s 

Sofia 

Chantal 

Stover 

Pastor Abe Pfeifer ’00 is lead pastor of 

New Life Church in Frederick, MD and 

Principal at a Christian school. 

Rachel (Strube) Toth ’08 is an R.N. and 

works as a school nurse. She just became 

the mother of a newborn. 

Matthew ’15 and Rylee (DeMent) ’17 

Tapp welcomed their first bundle of joy, 

Penelope Jane, in Nov 2021. 

Justin ’19 and Kristina (Davis) ’16 Stover 

welcomed daughter Sofia Chantal into the 

world in Nov 2021, and their family is now 

a “party of five”! 

2010’s 

Whitney Lewellyn ’12 is now 

senior pastor at Life Center 

Church in Clarkston, WA. 

Sam and Destiny (Denbo) DeCosta 

(both ‘21) married in 2021. 

Rev. Shea (Vercellono) Hood 

‘19 married in 2021. She and 

husband Sean serve as NextGen 

pastors at Thrive Worship Center 

in Concord, NC. 

Revs. Jeremiah ’17 and Brittany 

(Holbert) Girard ’19 married in 

2021. Together they serve in 

various pastoral roles at Faith 

Community Church in San Diego. 

Jeremiah also works for local 

nonprofit Big Table. 

Kagan Kaczmar ’19 works as an 

Athletic Trainer at South Tahoe 

High School. 

Natalie (Johnson) Bell ’19 is a 

Youth Pastor at Grace Covenant 

Church in Cornelius, NC. 

Whitney 

Lewellyn 

Sam & Destiny 

DeCosta 

Rev. Shea 

(Vercellono) Hood 

& her husband Sean 

Revs. Jeremiah 

& Brittany 

Girard 


YOUR GIVING COUNTS 

Every gift makes a difference in the lives of LPU students. We’re excited to report that 

because of your faithful generosity, this year your gifts are continuing to make a significant 

impact for the Kingdom of God. Below is a summary report how your gifts were distributed July 

1, 2020 through June 30, 2021 as well as a progress report for the first half of the current fiscal 

year (July 1, 2021 through December 31, 2021). 


To help LPU build forward, give today at: 

tinyurl.com/Give2LPU 

or scan the QR-code to visit the webpage.

SAVE THE 

DATES: 

2022 

IN MEMORIAM 

FRIDAY, MARCH 4 

Spring Preview at LPU West (California) Campus 

FRIDAY, MARCH 18 - SATURDAY, MARCH 19 

Spring Preview at LPU East (Virginia) Campus 

FRIDAY, MAY 6 

LPU East (Virginia) Commencement 

SATURDAY, MAY 14 

LPU West (California) Commencement 

Dr. Jack Hamilton ‘65, fifth president of LPU, entered 

into his heavenly reward on November 2, 2021 and 

was honored at services held in Laconia, NH, and 

LPU in San Dimas, CA. 

The Dr. Jack Hamilton Presidential Endowed 

Scholarship for Pastoral Ministry has been established 

by the family in his memory. 

Dale Downs ’69, Foursquare pastor and missionary, 

entered into the rest of His Lord and Savior Jesus 

Christ on December 30, 2021. He is survived by his 

wife Patti ‘69 and family. 

Joan Hamrick ’67 entered into glory on October 7, 

2021. She is survived by her husband Ron Hamrick 

’69 and family. 

Dr. Mason Hughes ‘52, legendary Foursquare 

missionary who established Foursquare ministry in 

Papua New Guinea, joined his wife Virgene ‘52 in 

heaven on October 2, 2021. 

We also honor the memory of the following alumni 

who were welcomed into the arms of the Father in 

2020-2021: Rev. Timothy Beck ’57, Rev. Anna Brown 

’48, Diane Cavanaugh-Metz ’73, Rev. Eloise Clarno 

’55, Ethel (Schimmick) Dunlop ’49, Fermin Gomez 

’48, Carol Hoffine ’57, William LaVigne, Rev. John 

Lundgren ’55, Johnny Martin ’48, James Phipps ’79, 

Carolee (Darden) Randall ’61, Velma Salvaggio ’48, 

Rev. Dawn Scott, Kay Sloan-Benedetti ’80, Harold 

Smith ’55, Philip Steiner ’72, Elvin Wells ’76, Anna 

Marie (Shalla) Wells ’66, and Henry Yahn. 


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