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2016-17 Academic Year Officially Begins

2016-17 Academic Year Officially Begins

Published August 23, 2016

Convocation Chapel marked the official start of the 2016-17 academic year on August 22.

Adam Schwamb, instructor in the Music Department, led faculty, staff and students in singing “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God” and the university hymn “Holding Fast the Faithful Word” before Dr. David Lackey read Galatians 6:1-10.

Dr. Bill Higley, vice president for academics, welcomed students to the 85th year of Clarks Summit University. He highlighted the revisions to the undergraduate curriculum, which provide a stronger product, more choices and better preparation for students. He also drew attention to the noteworthy achievements of two faculty members.

Dr. Elaine Brown, who has served as chair of the health and human performance department, led in developing HPE4ME and has been assistant softball coach and head volleyball coach, was promoted from associate professor to professor. Higley described her as, “teaching with distinction and passion in her field” and “exemplifying ideals we value.”

Dr. Lee Kliewer was introduced in his new role as seminary dean. “I unashamedly affirm that I love Clarks Summit University and Baptist Bible Seminary,” he stated, explaining how he admired the students and faculty of the school when he was a young man growing up in Johnson City, New York, where the school was originally located. He is eager to lead the seminary and considers it an honor to welcome and get to know the undergraduate student body. He encouraged them to take advantage of the open-door policy of seminary professors, who each have pastoral and academic experience.

Dr. Jim Lytle, university president, gave the keynote address, “Carpe Occasionem.” Instead of the self-focused and well-known “Carpe Diem,” this Latin phrase was used to challenge students to seize the occasion and opportunity. “It’s amazing how when you act like Jesus with people, what opportunities He opens up,” Lytle stated. Instead of focusing on “redeeming the culture,” he encouraged students to find opportunities to influence other people one at a time. Pointing to commands in Matthew 28:20, Titus 2:11-14, Romans 12:1-2 and Galations 6:10, he emphasized that each person has been commanded to make disciples, no matter what major he or she may have. “This is why, here at CSU, we think knowing the Word of God is of such high value,” he continued. Lytle plans to continue the topic in a “one another” themed teaching series through the semester.

The chapel concluded as faculty encircled the student body and Dr. Janet Hicks, dean of the School of Arts and Sciences and director of the M.Ed. program, gave the benediction.

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