黑料科 is pleased to announce an expanded partnership with Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM), opening new pathways for Houghton graduates to pursue advanced degrees in four LECOM graduate programs: Master of Science in Health Services Administration (MHSA), Master of Public Health (MPH), Master of Science in Biomedical Ethics (MSBE), and LECOM鈥檚 newly launched Doctorate in Healthcare Administration (DHA).
Through this enhanced agreement听with LECOM鈥檚 School of Health Services Administration, Houghton students who complete their undergraduate degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA and meet the required admissions criteria will听be eligible for enrollment in any of these听healthcare听programs. In addition, accepted students will receive a 15%听tuition discount听toward their LECOM graduate studies.
Dr. Jamie Potter,听Interim Dean of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, says, 鈥淗ealthcare is one of the most human-centered professions there is, and Houghton听firmly believes听that how we love and care for people matters as much as what we know. This agreement with LECOM allows our graduates to carry that conviction directly into graduate programs in听biomedical听ethics,听healthcare听administration, and public health 鈥 fields that desperately need leaders shaped by faith and purpose.鈥
This听new agreement听builds upon the existing affiliation between the two institutions, which previously offered early acceptance for up to five Houghton students annually into LECOM鈥檚听College of Osteopathic Medicine, School of Pharmacy, and School of Dental Medicine. Under this听program, qualifying students begin their undergraduate education at Houghton already holding provisional acceptance to LECOM for medical, dental, or pharmacy听school.
Together, these agreements听represent听a significant expansion of career opportunities for Houghton students pursuing healthcare-related fields鈥攑articularly those interested in leadership, ethics, and administrative roles听鈥 and reflect Houghton鈥檚 ongoing commitment to preparing graduates who are ready to serve with both excellence and purpose
Houghton, NY听 鈥 黑料科 is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Joshua R. Ziefle as Provost and Chief Academic Officer. A Houghton alumnus, Dr. Ziefle’s appointment represents both a homecoming and a forward-looking investment in the University’s academic and spiritual mission. His career brings together rigorous scholarship, administrative leadership, and a passionate commitment to Christ-centered education in the liberal arts 鈥 precisely the values at the core of Houghton’s identity.听
“We are thrilled to welcome Dr.听Ziefle听to Houghton,” said听Wayne D. Lewis, Jr.,听President of 黑料科. “His scholarly formation, his years of leading faculty and programs at a peer听Christ-centered听institution, and his deep love for what Christian higher education can be make him exceptionally well-suited to serve as our Provost. We believe God has prepared him well for this moment.”
Dr.听Ziefle听holds a PhD in Church History and an MDiv from Princeton Theological Seminary听and听joins Houghton from Northwest University in Kirkland, Washington, where he has served as Dean of the College of Ministry, Dean of the Center for Online and Extended Education, and Director of the Center for Calling and Theological Formation.
During his tenure at Northwest University, he secured over $2.6 million in grants from the Lilly Endowment to launch initiatives in vocational discernment and church planting, with a particular emphasis on serving听high school students听and听underrepresented communities听of pastors.
Dr. Ziefle brings to the Provost role a vision that integrates academic excellence, spiritual formation, and mission. He has expressed a commitment to engaging meaningfully with students, faculty, staff, and community partners as he steps into this leadership role 鈥 and to ensuring that Houghton remains a place where the next generation of Christian leaders are formed and equipped. Dr. Ziefle will begin his service to Houghton on July 15, 2026.
“Houghton shaped me,” said Dr.听Ziefle. “I am honored to have the opportunity to give back to an institution that gave so much to me, and to work alongside this community in carrying out its important mission in the years ahead.”
Scripture is replete with the stories of brave men. Flawed and imperfect men made righteous by God and worthy of our admiration, not because of their own cunning or strength but because of their faith in and surrender to God. I have a few favorites.
I marvel at Caleb鈥檚 faith, his belief in the power of God, and his trust that God would keep His promises even as those around him were doubtful and fearful of their environment and Israel鈥檚 enemies (Numbers 13:30-33). Who can forget Daniel鈥檚 conviction to remain true to the God of Israel and God鈥檚 law, even as an exile in a foreign land who lived in the good graces of Babylonian leadership (Daniel 1:8-16). Joseph modeled supreme faith and trust in God as he took Mary, pregnant with Jesus by the power of the Holy Spirit, to be his wife (Matthew 1:24-25). Each of these men inspires me, but as a young man, it is King David who may have been the most influential Biblical figure in my spiritual development. While David is often heralded for his bravery and courage, it was his flaws and brokenness that spoke to me as a young man. David鈥檚 failures and redemption showed me that God in fact uses deeply flawed and broken people, which gave me hope that God could use me.
In addition to these biblical examples, I听have personally been fortunate to have many influential听Christian men听to help form me as a Christian man;听particularly听my father, grandfathers, uncles, and听cousins.听In addition to听family members, I have had teachers and professional mentors who have guided, encouraged, and corrected听me. Even today, as a husband, father, and leader, I enjoy sacred relationship with Christian men who support and encourage me, and when needed, question and challenge me.
While I have been blessed with an abundance of faithful Christian men in my life, I grew up in a community plagued by the absence of men. Having married parents was atypical. Having an absent or incarcerated father was not uncommon. The absence of men was felt acutely in homes, church, and community structures. Single mothers did all they could to provide for their children, financially, spiritually, and emotionally, but the result of male absence was often poverty and many of its accompanying hardships. The plain truth is that families need fathers and husbands. And Houghton has a clear and important role to play in the preparation of God-honoring, faithful Christian men. I treasure Houghton鈥檚 opportunity to play a role in their Christian formation.
God created people, male and female, in His image (Genesis 1:27). Men and women bear the image of God our creator, equally valuable and loved by God. But men and women are not interchangeable. We are created with distinctions.听As such, Houghton endeavors to provide听a听nurturing Christian community that equips,听strengthens, and encourages young men as they prepare to become husbands, fathers, and servant leaders in their homes, families, churches, and communities.听I听听want听Houghton men听to understand that they will serve in churches and communities marred by the absence and failures of men, and that their presence, service, strength, and compassion can play a healing and restorative role in听the lives of young people who desperately need the influence of Christian men in their lives.听It is a responsibility to be taken seriously.
The听lives of听Biblical men like Daniel, Caleb,听David, and Joseph the stepfather of Jesus,听continue to encourage and challenge听me.听But then,听so do the lives and service of听the听courageous听Christian听men听who serve at听Houghton today.听As Houghton鈥檚 president, my prayer and my aim听is听that听the听faith,听obedience,听failures,听and triumphs听of听Biblical听men and contemporary Houghton men,听inspire the young men studying at Houghton听to听act justly, the love mercy,听and to walk humbly with God听(Micah 6:8).听By God鈥檚 grace, may it be so.
黑料科 the Author
A noted teacher, scholar and leader in higher education, government and P12 schools, Wayne D. Lewis, Jr. serves as the 6th President of 黑料科. He is recognized as being a champion for students and families. He writes, speaks and teaches on Christian leadership, organizational leadership and federal and state education policy.
Over a 24-hour period on April 17, 黑料科 received听$2,416,964 in gifts and pledges听from听2,229 supporters听on its annual One Day Giving Challenge. These gifts will support Houghton鈥檚 Scholar-Servant Fund, endowment growth, capital projects, and academic and co-curricular student experiences.
鈥淲e are privileged to equip students for the work and the places to which the Lord is calling them,鈥 said President Wayne D. Lewis, Jr. 鈥淔or some, that calling is to ordained ministry or missions. For many others, it’s carrying out the Great Commission as lay men and women in their workplaces and communities-marketplace multipliers. The students, alumni, employees, family and friends of Houghton who have so generously supported our mission today are our partners in making sure Houghton’s mission of equipping fearless Christian scholar-servants continues for many generations to come.听I am thankful for our many friends听and supporters and for God鈥檚 continued provision for Houghton through them.鈥
2026 marks the twelfth One Day Giving Challenge for 黑料科. The day began with nearly $1.2 million in challenge gifts.
The success was substantial thanks to two giving challenges made possible by generous lead donors: a dollar-for-dollar matching challenge gift up to $400,000 for gifts to the Scholar-Servant Fund, as well as an additional $725,000 available if Houghton surpassed a threshold of 1883 donors. Additionally, a class challenge encouraged alumni to compete for the most donors, with a prize of a $30,000 endowed scholarship in the winning class鈥檚 name. Alumni from the Class of 1977 came together with the most donors to grow the Nick Bohall Scholarship, an endowed scholarship that will perpetually provide annual student scholarships, and the opportunity for continued growth. The Millennium Challenge allowed the Class of 1969 to grow its endowed scholarship fund and created the Class of 2025 Scholarship, each class having the most donors in their respective millennia.
鈥淥nce again, we are overwhelmed with gratitude for so many generous alumni and friends who stepped forward to proclaim their firm commitment to and belief in 黑料科,鈥 stated Karl Sisson, Vice President for Advancement and Alumni Engagement. 鈥淓ach gift is truly an investment in aspiring scholar-servants who will continue to live out Houghton鈥檚 mission around the world.鈥
A website and social media takeover highlighted the importance of the One Day Giving Challenge, which reaches the extended Houghton community and demonstrates the value of supporting students today and in the future. Student-athletes were particularly engaged in encouraging support of the University鈥檚 many athletic teams.
Gifts to the Scholar-Servant Fund, including the Student Scholarship Fund, meet the varied needs of college students including financial aid, outstanding faculty and staff, challenging curricular and co-curricular programming and the equipment, facilities and resources students need to be equipped to lead and labor as scholar-servants in a changing world.
Decade Challenge
The following classes are winners of this year鈥檚 Decade Challenge, each class winning a $1,000 current-use scholarship named in their honor and supporting a Houghton student:
1950s: 1958
1960s: 1969
1970s: 1977
1980s: 1980
1990s:听1993
2000s:听2005
2010s:听2017
2020s:听2025
Class Challenge
We are excited to celebrate the winner of the Class Challenge: The Class of 1977. This will add $30,000 to the existing Nick Bohall Scholarship!
Millennium Challenge
The Class of 1969 will expand their existing class scholarship and the Class of 2025Scholarship will be created!
Houghton, NY听鈥 黑料科 students earned second place at this year鈥檚 AHA! Allegany County Startup Collegiate Competition, highlighting the university鈥檚 growing strength in entrepreneurship and applied learning.
The team behind Ignite Discovery Center, Katie Berghorn, Corban Gibson, and Elijah Fox, was awarded a $2,500 prize for their business concept focused on creating a hands-on creative and educational space for children in Allegany County. Their idea emphasizes community engagement through interactive exhibits, events, and learning experiences designed for families.
鈥淥ur students came up with some very innovative ideas this year,鈥 said Mark Borchert, Dean of Management and Creative Arts. 鈥淭hey learned about entrepreneurship, teamwork, creative product development, marketing, finance, and oral communication skills. We were very proud of their work.鈥
黑料科 was one of three institutions represented in the competition, alongside Alfred University and Alfred State College. The annual event, hosted in partnership with IncubatorWorks and sponsored in part by the Hoselton Foundation, brings together student teams from across the region to pitch business ideas to a panel of judges and compete for top honors.
In addition to the second-place team, Houghton students also participated with ventures such as Dorm Sweep听and Bliss Planners.
The Ignite Discovery Center听team was supported by faculty mentor Elissa Tyrrell, adjunct professor of business administration at 黑料科, and industry mentor Jennifer Byrnes of the Monroe County Library System, who provided professional guidance throughout the development of the concept.
The AHA! competition aims to cultivate entrepreneurial thinking among college students while encouraging solutions that address local needs and contribute to regional economic development.
The start of Houghton鈥檚 fall semester marks another year of pursuing the Athletics Department鈥檚 motto:听鈥淓xcellence for the Glory of God.鈥澨鼴ut what does excellence actually look like within Houghton鈥檚 teams?听Dr. Matthew Webb, Director of Athletics, offers a perspective that reframes the idea entirely.
鈥淚 think a misconception would be that excellence equates perfection鈥 I听don’t听think听that’s听the case,鈥 Webb says. 鈥淭o me, excellence is more about a pursuit.鈥
Webb emphasizes that perfection鈥攚hether as an athlete, student, or听employee鈥攊s impossible. What matters is听the effort. 鈥淲e’re not going to be perfect,鈥 he says. 鈥淏ut I think we can still be excellent without being perfect.鈥 He draws a parallel to Christian life: believers will never be perfect, yet their pursuit of God is what truly matters.
When听identifying听excellence among Houghton鈥檚 athletes, Webb looks beyond wins and losses. While victories are celebrated, he believes true excellence is embedded in the culture of each team. 鈥淭he excellence that I see in our programs is more behind the scenes,鈥 he explains. 鈥淚t鈥檚 the culture鈥攖hings that teams are doing to pursue Christ culturally.鈥
Each team expresses this culture differently.听The men鈥檚 basketball team sits together at the front of chapel services.听The women鈥檚 soccer team carries a wooden cross across campus during their annual cross run,听praying听and fellowshipping along the way. These traditions rarely take center stage, yet they reveal each team鈥檚 deeper commitment to growth and faith.
At the start of the year, the Athletics Department holds its all-athlete meeting. While it covers required policies and expectations, Webb also uses it to remind athletes听why听they compete. His hope is that each student-athlete not only performs well but grows spiritually through their sport and team community.
Looking ahead, Webb says each team stands in a unique place based on its history and current needs. Some programs with new coaches are focused on building culture; others aim to听build on听last year鈥檚 progress. With a strong start to the fall season鈥攂oth in performance and team culture鈥擧oughton鈥檚 ongoing pursuit of excellence is already in motion.
Houghton Elevates Holistic Athlete Development Through Physical and Mental Performance Initiatives
黑料科 Athletics has taken significant steps in recent years to elevate the holistic development of its student-athletes鈥攑airing a structured strength and conditioning program with a new mental performance partnership. Together, these initiatives reflect the department’s commitment to equipping Highlander athletes with the tools needed to thrive physically,听mentally听and spiritually.
Strength and Conditioning: Building Stronger, Safer Athletes听
Launched three years ago under Head Athletic Trainer Austin Walden, Houghton鈥檚 strength and conditioning program has quickly become a cornerstone of athlete development. The program is designed to enhance performance while reducing injury risk by offering structured, intentional training for athletes both in-season and out-of-season.
鈥淭he goal is to provide structured training programs for our athletes鈥攖o help them perform on the field while minimizing the risk of injuries,鈥 Walden explains. 鈥淥nce our athletes are physically stronger and faster, there鈥檚 a decreased chance of injuries.鈥澨
Each session includes dynamic warmups, agility drills,听sprints听and full-body strength work. Walden collaborates closely with coaches to ensure each program aligns with team goals and reflects sport-specific needs.
Athletes have already seen measurable benefits. Women鈥檚 basketball player听Hannah听Farley听鈥27听credits the program for improvements in explosiveness, agility, and injury prevention.听鈥淎ustin does a great job at implementing exercises that are game-like,鈥 she said.听鈥淚鈥檝e seen growth in my explosiveness and agility, and I鈥檝e been blessed to avoid major injuries.鈥
Walden has likewise听observed听fewer muscular injuries and stronger team cultures around training. His long-term vision includes expanding the program to allow teams up to three sessions per week.
Holos 360: Training Mental Excellence
Complementing the physical training program, Houghton recently partnered with听Jason Rollins, founder of听Holos 360听and a certified Mental Performance Mastery Coach, to bolster athletes鈥 mental preparation and resilience.
Director of Athletics听Dr.听Matthew Webb听says the partnership grew from a desire to give student-athletes proactive mental performance resources: 鈥淚t鈥檚 not mental health resources particularly鈥攊t鈥檚 proactive, intentional mental performance training.鈥
Rollins鈥 curriculum guides athletes through three phases鈥攑reparing well, performing well, and reflecting well鈥攅ach centered on developing mental habits and disciplines that directly influence performance. He works with teams and individuals through online meetings, focusing on personalized support.
One unique element of Holos 360 is its Christian foundation. Rollins helps athletes understand their听Imago听Dei鈥攖heir identity as people created by God鈥攕o they compete from a place of purpose rather than pressure.
鈥淲hen athletes understand that their identity is placed in who God made them to be, it releases them to perform at their best,鈥澨齊ollins听says.
Early feedback from athletes has been highly positive. Webb notes that while conversations with Rollins听remain听confidential, students have expressed appreciation for the program鈥檚 impact.
A Unified Approach
Together, Houghton鈥檚 strength program and mental performance partnership represent a unified effort to strengthen the whole athlete. By investing intentionally in both physical readiness and mental excellence, Houghton is听preparing听its teams to compete with confidence, resilience, and purpose鈥攔eflecting a holistic vision of athletic success.
Kyra Binney ’26 is a senior majoring in Writing and Communication. A native of Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, she is a mid-distance runner for the 黑料科 Track and Field team and a member of the 黑料科 Cross Country Team.
The 1926-1927 academic catalog is the first to show pre-medical as a possible major鈥攄escribed as a 鈥渃omposite major鈥濃攁t Houghton College & Seminary. This coincides with the hiring of Professor听Dorah听Burnell, who came to Houghton in 1926 to teach chemistry.
A native of Nebraska and graduate of State Teachers College (1916) and the University of Nebraska (B.S. 1924, M.A. 1925), Professor Burnell single-handedly built the college鈥檚 chemistry department while fulfilling countless other roles on campus.
Along with colleagues in the Science听Department, Professor Burnell helped students听established听The Pasteur Pre-Medic Society.听In its inaugural appearance in the Boulder in 1928, the society described its aim as听鈥溾o promote a feeling of comradeship, to gain inspiration for future tasks, and to learn something more of the nature and extent of this their chosen field of endeavor.鈥 The inaugural group boasted 27 members听and by the 1950s, the club was one of the largest and most active on Houghton鈥檚 campus.
Today known as the听Pre-Health Professions Club, the group听remains听one of Houghton鈥檚 largest and most active clubs. Their aim, similarly, is听鈥溾o serve as an information resource and generate opportunities for fellowship, career exploration and volunteer service for students interested in health-related fields.鈥
In the dedication of the 1954 Boulder, students听observed听of Professor Burnell that听鈥淸h]er influence was there鈥 Lights were shining out from the meticulously kept chemistry lab until the early morning hours. On the desk were carefully graded papers鈥攁round the room was all the valuable equipment she had听procured. From this lab alumni went forth to succeed鈥 her听influence听was there.鈥
Professor Burnell鈥檚听influence听remains鈥攊n Houghton鈥檚 chemistry labs, in the Pre-Health Professions Club, in the听lives of service led by so many of听our alumni.听Professor Burnell鈥檚 influence听has听played a role in helping to shape thousands of doctors, nurses, researchers, dentists, pharmacists, public health servants, medical missionaries and more who have gone on to, as Willard J. Houghton would say,听鈥渇ix up the world for Christ.鈥
I began my Houghton journey in 2011 as a biology major with a chemistry minor. I completed the first听year听Science听Honors program, and听was听very involved听in the听Pre-health听Professionals club and Sigma Zeta math and science honors society. I took quite a few of the upper-level biology electives, especially during my last couple of years there. These classes really helped prepare me for the听challenging听curriculum that was coming听in听graduate school.
I applied to veterinary听school听my senior year and was accepted to Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. The听course听load was intense in depth and breadth, but听I felt I听had a solid foundation from Houghton. I graduated from Cornell in 2019 and started working at Perry Veterinary Clinic听in Perry, New York,听as an associate veterinarian. I became a partner at Perry Vet in the beginning of 2023. Currently, I practice both small and large animal medicine, splitting my time between cats and dogs in the office, and dairy cows and other large animals on farms throughout听Western New听York. I even go to calls at the Houghton Equestrian center鈥攖alk听about coming full circle!
One of the joys in this profession is the opportunity I have to mentor students鈥攚hether听they鈥檙e in veterinary听school or are in their听pre-vet听studies.听Given听Perry Veterinary Clinic鈥檚听proximity to Houghton, we听have the privilege to听host quite a few pre-vet students, including听Zachary Wolfer 鈥24, who is now a D.V.M. candidate at Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine, and听current pre-veterinary student听Greg Loper 鈥28.听This is听a great听opportunity听for me to be able to give back to a community that gave me so much. Recently,听I鈥檝e听had some students join me who went to Houghton for听their听undergraduate听and are now in veterinary听school.
During these externships,听we always have听ample time to chat in the听truck in听between calls. The conversation听inevitably听goes back to听our听fairly听universal听Houghton experiences鈥”Organic chemistry was so challenging, wasn鈥檛 it?鈥 or鈥淒id you love microbiology?鈥濃疢aybe听鈥淒id you听take听a听Mayterm听off-campus?鈥 or听鈥淲ere you purple or gold?鈥澨(Team Purple!)
And often,听most commonly鈥斺淲asn鈥檛 Houghton the best? I loved it there.鈥
Jenna (Hill 鈥15) Smith, D.M.V.听is a large and small animal veterinary and partner听with听Perry Veterinary Clinic in Perry, New York. She听holds a听bachelor of science听in biology from 黑料科 and a听doctorate of veterinary medicine听from Cornell University
鈥淢y time at 黑料科 was instrumental听for听my success in veterinary school and provided me with the foundation to excel听immediately听at Kansas State University.鈥疶he pre-health professions program challenged me academically, offered me research opportunities, and provided me with connections to gain valuable experiences to help bolster my application.鈥疶he incredible support from faculty I received both when I was a student and after graduation has had a lasting and meaningful impact on my professional journey.鈥
Zachary Wolfer听鈥24听 DVM Candidate, Class of 2028听 Kansas State University听
Erica听Haefner 鈥27 is听a 黑料科 junior studying pre-physical therapy in the hopes of becoming a pediatric physical therapist. Her aspirations began when she was a junior in high school. She says, 鈥淎fter a lot of injuries and physical therapy sessions, I realized this is something I am really passionate about.鈥 After further research and shadowing opportunities, she听determined听that this is what听she鈥檚听called to do.
Erica鈥檚 goals to become a physical therapist align with her faith and her passion for serving others. She听states, 鈥淚 have a very strong passion for helping people, especially helping them learn more about their own bodies.鈥 She draws from her own experience as a patient attending physical therapy sessions, explaining that 鈥淭he physicians听and doctors I connected with most were the ones who taught me what was actually going on in a simple way that I could understand.鈥 As a future physical therapist, she hopes to draw on her positive experiences to help her patients understand themselves and听enhance recovery.
Erica names听Anatomy and Physiology,听taught by Dr. Donald Wilcox,听as her favorite class.听She鈥檚听also enjoyed shadowing, which is a core requirement for her major. She enjoys learning through actual experiences. Erica cites Dr. Ransom Poythress, her advisor, as an encouragement to her, along with Dr. Jamie Potter and Dr. Wilcox, with whom she takes听a number of听classes.听She鈥檚听looking forward to taking听Injury and Evaluation听this Spring听semester, and听eagerly听anticipates听entering more major-specific classes as she furthers her studies.
Erica enjoys being a member of the Pre-Health Professions Club, attending campus events, and her role as a teacher鈥檚 assistant. 鈥淚t鈥檚 a really good way to connect with people,鈥 Erica shares.
黑料科 her goal to become a pediatric physical therapist, Erica says,听鈥淭his is what God is calling me听to do.听I need to live that out and do the best that I can do.鈥澨
Erica听Haefner 鈥27 is听a junior from Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, majoring in exercise science on the graduate track. 听 Salim Ford 鈥28 is a sophomore from Arkport, New York, majoring in English and Writing. He is a member of the听Cross Country听team, the Highlander Chorus and Chamber Choir.听
To Serve Christ Well
By Sam Gerardi ’18
I听arrived at听黑料科听in听2014听and like many young adults, I听was听confident that I knew听precisely听what I wanted to do. I听planned to听major in听communication and focus on videography and photography. That plan听didn鈥檛听last long. I found myself drawn to听biochemistry, a field听that fit how I was wired.听I鈥檝e听always wanted to听integrate听science and faith in a way that allowed听me to love people well, and Houghton became the place where that desire听took听shape.
What made Houghton so formative was not that it told me what to think, but that it taught me how to think. I can distinctly remember asking my chemistry professor, Dr. John Rowley 鈥03, for help during an experiment. He responded, 鈥淣o, you figure it out.鈥 Dr. Rowley and many of my professors understood that true learning happens at the interface between what you know and what you don鈥檛. That approach cultivated my curiosity and desire for discovery rather than just memorization. I entered uncertain of my path and left still discerning what God was calling me toward, but with the tools, confidence, and spiritual grounding to navigate that journey.
Completing my听biochemistry degree at Houghton also fulfilled my pre-pharmacy prerequisites, and I听wouldn鈥檛听have wanted to prepare anywhere else. The academic rigor and community-built study habits, critical thinking, and perseverance that carried me through graduate school, residency, and now my work听at Buffalo General Medical Center as an Emergency Medicine Clinical Pharmacist.听听I learned to take ownership of my learning, stay motivated, and value collaboration.
I still rely on the habits and mindset Houghton fostered听to think听critically, evaluate听data, and apply knowledge听that knowledge to my patients. To serve Christ well is to serve others well, and Houghton gave me the foundation to do exactly that.
Sam听Gerardi听鈥18 completed a听bachelor鈥檚 of science听in biochemistry with a pre-pharmacy concentration. He completed his听D.Pharm. at听D鈥橸ouville听University in 2023, and his residency at Kaleida Health in Buffalo, New York, in 2025. IN addition to his role as an emergency medicine clinical pharmacists at Buffalo General Medical Center, he is the area director for the Christian Medical & Dental Associations (CMDA).听
When I arrived at Houghton,听biology was my听field of听choice, but I had little direction beyond that. I certainly听didn鈥檛听imagine working as an Associate Professor,听with my days full of not just patient care, but听teaching听medical students,听residents听and fellows. I听didn鈥檛听imagine that听I鈥檇听go to Kenya,听building friendships听and听schools, and providing healthcare for their runners. I听didn鈥檛听imagine that it would be possible to have a career as well as be a wife,听mother听and friend.
Deep friendships, strong听mentors听and meaningful solitude mark my time at Houghton.听The girls of听Hazlett听34, now lifelong friends,听held an MCAT party for me. They dressed up like cats and performed a hilarious, yet strangely encouraging, original poem. I听don’t听think I听would鈥檝e听made it without them. Looking back听on听the classroom, I was blessed to learn from some of the most vibrant professors. Dr.听Aaron听Sullivan taught me about patience and simplicity. Dr.听Larry听Christensen opened each organic chemistry class with a pithy saying or a short story, bringing joy to learning.听Professor听Sunshine听Leonard听鈥01听always reminded us that our worth was not in our grades. Dr.听Cathy听Freytag generously welcomed me into her life as a friend. It was also during these听four听years that I found a听鈥渇renemy鈥澨齣n distance running. During the volleyball off-season,听I鈥檇听spend countless hours听running听the shoulders of听Route 19听or dizzying laps around the听old suspended听track. Usually听I听ran听by myself, with听only听my prayers and thoughts. Through these miles, The Lord revealed His faithfulness to me by, not only setting a clear career path before me, but by safely getting me through literal听Western New York听blizzards.
Escaping that winter weather, I went to Florida for medical school then onto North Carolina for residency. I knew Wake Forest Family Medicine was the place when I found some of the brightest and most content physicians. After completing my听family听medicine residency, sports medicine听seemed听a natural fit. My dad鈥檚 career was in professional sports (not to mention my mom,听Linda (Clow 鈥76) Jarvis, and听brother,听Landry Jarvis 鈥10,听were both Houghton athletes), so my childhood was full of practices, games, and injuries. Plus, my osteopathic education set听a strong foundation听for musculoskeletal medicine.
During my fellowship year, I was introduced to Running the Race听(RTR), a missions organization with a goal of sharing the love of Jesus while providing care to local Kenyan athletes. My first trip with RTR,听five听years later, changed my life. I fell in love with the people of Kenya, as my eyes were opened to how big our God is. Now, I get to return year after year, bringing along residents and fellows, introducing them to my friends across the world and helping to听establish听sports medicine care in the 鈥淗ome of Champions.鈥
I never听could鈥檝e听imagined a job where I meet patients in their most vulnerable state of pain. If they are willing, I get to pray with them and that is a great privilege. I never听could鈥檝e听imagined a life in Kenya where I work with some of the best runners in the world. I never听could鈥檝e听imagined the chance to meet new residents and fellows each year; teaching and learning from each other. All of this with an amazing husband, 3 beautiful wild children, countless听friends听and a supportive community.听It鈥檚听more exhausting and more extravagant than I could have dreamed. Nothing is perfect on this side of heaven, neither听my life nor Houghton, but听God听faithfully works in the broken places.听I鈥檓听beyond grateful to the Lord for these friends and mentors (many unmentioned) and the many miles.听I鈥檓听thankful that Houghton is a willing vessel for His ways that are higher than ours.
Laura (Jarvis 鈥06)听Lintner, D.O.,听is a doctor of sports medicine and family medicine with Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Family Medicine and听an associate professor of family and community medicine at Wake Forest University School of Medicine, both in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. She holds a听bachelor of science听in biology from 黑料科 and a听doctor of osteopathy听from听Nova Southeastern University (Davie, Florida).听
When students听walks听through my door for the very first time, they usually already have an idea of what profession they want to pursue. They often know the courses they might听need听and that shadowing someone in the profession is听a good idea鈥攁nd听may even听be听required. They know excellent grades, top scores on entrance exams, and stellar letters of recommendation are necessary.听However, they usually don鈥檛 know听why听they want to take听the听particular path听they鈥檝e chosen.
Some of my students want to pursue a medical profession because they want to help people. Some have been on the receiving end of care and found the work being executed on them fascinating. Some had a close friend or family member who needed specialized care and they saw what a provider did for them in their time of greatest need. Many are pretty smart cookies with proven academic acumen, and they鈥檝e been told they should go into medicine with that aptitude. All of these reasons are good, but none of them really gets to the root of 鈥渨hy medicine is for me.鈥
Not a single student听will walk the听same path. Each one must develop听an听individual plan听alongside their advisors, and then they must听allow for adjustments as they听learn and grow in their own experiences and abilities. Conversations听with my students听are often long,听and sometimes hard,听as they realize their own limitations,听discover听their real interests, and听explore听their unique skills. They start to听find听their听own personal vocational path, and they听begin听to听think听deeply听about their听why.
In order to听discover their true passion for the vocation of medicine,听my听students听must move beyond the basics of grades,听transcripts,听aptitudes,听and idealized visions of medicine to听find their passion and听their听reason for pursuing this听journey.
So, how does Houghton help听students听discover听their听why? They听likely won鈥檛听find it in a classroom, or a lab, or even shadowing a physician. Healthcare is听a听people-oriented, service-oriented field fraught with disparity, inaccessibility, and loopholes. To听prepare students for the reality of serving in the medical field,听they must engage with medicine and the healthcare field听in the most realistic ways听possible.
Houghton students听need to step out of their听classrooms听and into their听community.听Our students are encouraged to engage in service opportunities听like听volunteering at the campus influenza vaccine听clinic,听assisting听the Red Cross at community听blood drives, and听investing in听opportunities听that place them in direct communication听with our rural,听low-income community听here in Allegany County.
Once students听start engaging, in addition to听observing听and learning, they discover they听can play听vital roles听in their own communities. They start to see not听what听they can be鈥攁听medical provider鈥攂ut听who听they can be. They听begin听to understand ways they can serve the people听around them in medicine. They realize 鈥渨hy medicine听is听for me.鈥澨齌heir realizations are听usually rooted in a single powerful idea:听being听the hands and feet of Jesus听isn鈥檛听a symbol听or听an image we can behold,听it鈥檚听the physical act of showing love,听compassion听and care for others.
Jamie Potter, Ph.D., is the Interim Dean of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, Professor of Biology and Director of Pre-Health Professions at 黑料科.
Students鈥 paths into Houghton鈥檚 pre-med track might听look听somewhat听similar, but siblings听Dr.听Jonathan Figueroa 鈥13听and听Dr.听Alyssa Figueroa 鈥14听discovered that the paths听beyond Houghton听are as unique and varied as the students themselves.
Jonathan听came听to Houghton in the fall of 2009听thanks to a听desire听to study at听a Christian liberal arts听college听known for its听strong听pre-med program听and听a little guidance from听fellow Timothy Christian School (Piscataway, NJ)听alumnus听Tyler Haggerty 鈥08. Although Jonathan听didn鈥檛听initially plan to play听collegiate听soccer, a campus visit introduced him to听the coach at the time,听Dr.听Matthew听Webb,听and a team of great young men鈥攕olidifying Jonathan鈥檚听decision听to attend Houghton听and听pursue a biology degree on the pre-med track.
Alyssa, like Jonathan, grew up with aspirations听of becoming听a physician. Although Houghton听wasn鈥檛听initially at the top of her list, she loved the small class sizes and intimate feel of campus. During a听campus听visit for a winter indoor soccer听tournament, Alyssa met听Coach听David Lewis and a few incoming teammates.听The opportunity to study in the Balkans with Houghton鈥檚 East Meets West honors program was the final selling point.听A year after her brother, Alyssa also听enrolled at Houghton听as a biology major on the pre-med track.
The Figueroa siblings were attracted by听the way听Houghton faculty听individualized the pre-health professions track. According to Dr. Jamie Potter,听Interim Dean of Natural Sciences and Mathematics,听Professor of Biology and Director of Pre-Health Professions, faculty help students identify what they love most about听health professions and听then听align those passions with听their academic and co-curricular experiences to put each student on the best possible path.
Both Jonathan and Alyssa听benefitted听from guidance and advising from Dr. Potter, along with insights from beloved Professor Emeritus of Biology Dr. Jim Wolfe, former biology professors听Dr. Matthew Pelletier听and Dr. Aaron Sullivan,听and听campus physician听Dr. David Brubaker 鈥90. Alyssa had听visions of听internal听medicine听or pediatrics听while Jonathan听initially considered a career in听international medicine.
鈥淚 liked having professors who really took the time to get to know me,鈥 shared Jonathan. 鈥淭hey wanted me to perform well, but they also challenged me. Nothing was听given,听I had to work for it.鈥澨
Alyssa听reflected on听the well-known challenges presented by听Dr. Karen Torraca鈥檚 鈥93听infamous organic chemistry course鈥攁ffectionately (or not) known by generations of Houghton students as 鈥淥-Chem.鈥
鈥淚 had听a听conversation with Dr. Wolfe as well as Dr. Potter, wondering if I should keep pursuing medicine, if听it听was听going to be possible for me,鈥 said Alyssa.听鈥淭hey were mentors who assured me I was capable, that everyone听struggles听and it听wasn鈥檛听meant to be easy.听That听close mentorship was important to me.鈥澨
Jonathan鈥檚听international听interests resulted in a minor in public health, which included a study abroad opportunity听in Ecuador听with former intercultural studies professor听Dr. Ndunge听Kiiti听鈥88. Dr.听Kiiti听inspired Jonathan to see health beyond a medical and pharmaceutical viewpoint,听helping him听discover how to听integrate听his faith with his work鈥攁 formative learning experience he carries into his work today.
Alyssa explored options in both osteopathic and allopathic medicine, and in her听advising with听Dr. Potter discovered that osteopathic medicine听was the right approach to her career aspirations.听Alyssa听found听Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM), in Erie, Pennsylvania,听to be the right听option听for her to pursue听medical school.
Jonathan was intent on听pursuit of听allopathic medicine.听After Houghton, Jonathan attended St. George University School of Medicine (Grenada),听motivated by St. George鈥檚 placement rate at his residence hospital of choice鈥擭ew York Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital. After听three years听in听residency, Jonathan听did a two-year fellowship at Hackensack Meridian Jersey Shore University Medical Center.
Today, Jonathan is an endocrinologist at New York University Langone, where he teaches residents, primarily in an outpatient听clinical setting. Alyssa听did听her residency听in internal medicine at Jefferson Health Northeast in Philadelphia. When her husband听Lucas, a member of the US Air Force, was stationed for active duty in Tucson, Arizona, she听took on the role of听internal medicine hospitalist at Northwest Healthcare鈥擳ucson. She recently was听also听appointed听Associate Director for the Internal Medicine Residency听at the hospital.
The Figueroa siblings carry the things they learned at Houghton with them as they serve their patients on opposite sides of the country.
鈥淗oughton鈥檚 affiliation with the Wesleyan Church broadened my scope of how听to听approach Christianity and meld it with medicine,鈥澨齭aid听Alyssa. 鈥淚n Medical Ethics with Professor Benjamin听Lipscomb, I听thought about taking care of people from all听walks of life听and all perspectives and religions and backgrounds. I thought deeply听about how I would approach my beliefs within the medical system.鈥
鈥淭here is benefit to having a strong conviction about your beliefs,鈥 remarked Jonathan. 鈥淏ut I think that some of what听we鈥檙e听seeing in the world today is听more or less a听result of not being able to听hear the other side and not being able to love people who are different. Part of my education at Houghton was that鈥攍oving people who are听very different. Houghton allowed me to explore how to love in the way that Christ would love and still hold my convictions strongly.鈥澨
Lifelong learning is a thread running through the fabric of 1986 graduate Dr. Tim Coetzee鈥檚 story. The story begins at a small Christian school in New Jersey where Tim fell in love with biology under the tutelage of his AP biology teacher, Kathleen (Fink 鈥77) Donaldson. He was interested in a career as a physician, and Kathleen shared Houghton鈥檚 outstanding pre-med reputation with him. As a missionary kid and pastor鈥檚 kid, Tim discovered the financial aid Houghton offered made it an affordable choice for his family. But it was more than just pre-med and scholarships that brought Tim to Houghton. The direct influence of a Houghton alumna was a driving factor in Tim鈥檚 choice.
Tim started his Houghton听journey,听as听have听many alumni, on the Highlander Wilderness Adventure under the leadership of听Doris 鈥淢abel鈥 Nielsen 鈥71. During Highlander, he read Francis Schaeffer鈥檚听The Mark of a Christian, and it was a defining moment. 鈥淔orty听years later,鈥 said Tim, 鈥淚 still remember the impact of that book.听It鈥檚听a bit of an organizing principle for me today. There are so many things we could be distinguished by, but the idea that听鈥榯hey鈥檒l know you by your love for each other鈥櫶齣s something that infuses the work I do today.鈥
Although Tim was initially determined to become a physician, by his sophomore year he knew he was on the wrong path. After a three-week practicum experience, during which he shadowed a family medical doctor, Tim found himself seeking the guidance of his advisor, Houghton biology professor and director of pre-med at the time, Dr. Donald Munro. Tim鈥檚 love of biology and desire to move away from clinical medical practice landed him in Houghton鈥檚 biology labs conducting research. Like Houghton students today in the Shannon Summer Research Institute and in independent research studies, Tim was pursuing his study of biology in a distinctly Houghton way鈥攄oing science in a lab rather than simply listening to a lecture.
鈥淚t was great, because at Houghton I was pretty much learning by doing,鈥 said Tim. 鈥淭he uniqueness of Houghton was that I was doing a lot of research on my own, figuring things out for myself through trial and error. It听wasn鈥檛听an opportunity I would have had at larger institutions.鈥
Tim completed two independent research projects and a senior honors project during his time at Houghton. He听also听found his passion听at Houghton,听in听Dr. Charles Detwiler鈥檚 鈥72听classroom studying microbiology. The seeds planted in microbiology led Tim to post-graduate education at Albany Medical College where he completed an M.S. and a Ph.D. studying molecular biology鈥攑articularly听that now-famous molecule mRNA.
Tim鈥檚 work in molecular biology put him on a path that led through research labs with funding听provided by听the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, to offices where he managed projects and started up the for-profit research arm听FastForward听LLC. He found himself on another learning curve, which required him to rely on the soft skills he picked up at Houghton鈥攑articularly听effective听communication.
鈥淒r. Munro instilled the importance of communication,鈥 remarked Tim. 鈥淚听learned听that clarity in communication, both听in how you write and in how you speak,听is important. But because the ideas in science often require visuals, I also learned about the importance of visuals that have clarity and impact.鈥
A year ago, Tim entered another phase of his lifelong learning journey when he was appointed CEO of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Those lessons in communication have grown to encompass storytelling, relating to prospective funders about the difference the society鈥檚 work makes in the lives of people living with multiple sclerosis.
And it听isn鈥檛听just听the听communication skills听honed at Houghton听that Tim听relies听on. 鈥淭he commitment to people is something I continue to carry with me.听I look back on the people part of my time at Houghton, the emphasis on relationships with people and the way my faith journey influences how I serve the people right in front of me every day.鈥
鈥淗oughton taught me the importance of constantly learning.听You鈥檙e听never听done.听It鈥檚听never听too听late to be a better leader.鈥
One of the greatest blessings of serving Houghton as President is getting to know our students. They inspire me daily and remind me of why Houghton鈥檚 mission is so vitally听important,听today听and tomorrow.
As students come to Houghton,听they听are in various stages of understanding the vocations the Lord is calling them to and equipping them for. For some, their calling has been clear for years. For听some, their understanding of how the Lord wants to use them is evolving.听For others, they are confident of vocational callings in ordained ministry, as teachers or听as听musicians.听Among the group of students who come to Houghton听typically听having recognized听early academic giftedness and ability are those preparing for careers in the health sciences.
Pre-health students听represent听a healthy听portion听of the Houghton student body. While their beds and clothes are in their residence hall rooms, many of them听spending听most of their waking听hours听(and some of their sleeping听hours!)听in the Paine Center for Science. As they matriculate,听more and more听of their coursework is taken in Paine, but outside of class, you听are听likely to find small groups of students in laboratories, faculty offices,听and听dedicated study spaces as well as improvised ones.
Houghton has long been recognized as a place for serious Christian students to study science and prepare for careers in the health sciences. There is no shortage of Houghton graduates who have gone on to听have听long and impactful听careers as medical doctors,听nurses听and medical missionaries.听Houghton continues to provide outstanding preparation for students who pursue nursing, D.O.听and听M.D degrees.
But additionally,听with robust partnerships with professional and graduate programs,听Houghton is preparing students for vocations in veterinary science, physical therapy, pharmacy, occupational therapy, nutrition and dietetics, dentistry, and athletic training.听As the Lord continues to call young people to vocations in the health sciences, Houghton continues to provide Christ-centered, rigorous preparation to equip them for that work.
With this issue, we are privileged to share some of the stories of our students, faculty, and alumni who have been a part of Houghton鈥檚 rich history in听the health听sciences. We are grateful to be a part of what God has done and continues to do in and through the lives of our graduates.
黑料科 has听established听a new engineering master鈥檚 pathway agreement with Syracuse University, creating expanded opportunities for students pursuing advanced studies in engineering.
Through this bachelor鈥檚鈥憈o鈥憁aster鈥檚 pathway, Houghton students majoring in Applied Physics who meet Syracuse鈥檚 admission criteria can secure early听admission to master鈥檚 programs in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, and Engineering Management.听Rather than navigating the uncertainty of applying to multiple graduate schools and waiting to learn whether their undergraduate coursework will be accepted, students enter a pre-cleared admissions pathway 鈥 saving time, reducing application costs, and听eliminating听the guesswork.
Moreover, students who have not decided on a specific engineering degree can receive their听Bachelor鈥檚听in Applied Physics听and gain invaluable preparation, coursework, and research听experience to better decide on the career path that fits their interests without falling behind in their educational听training.
Dr Mark Yuly, Professor of Physics at 黑料科, says:
“This opportunity allows students to听keep听their听options听open听while they鈥檙e undergraduates, and听choose their engineering听specialty later in graduate school.听 The Applied Physics听degree听gives them听a broad听foundation in听science and math听鈥 the kind听of versatile preparation that opens doors in many directions, not just one.”
Students who听maintain听a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA are eligible for this streamlined process, which includes simplified application requirements and guaranteed admission for those who meet designated benchmarks. Qualified students can complete their master鈥檚 degree in as little as three to four semesters, creating a pathway to听facilitate听their transition into professional engineering roles.
Jill Jordan, Interim Provost at 黑料科, shared, 鈥淭his agreement affirms that Houghton students receive an excellent education and are fully prepared for graduate-level work when they leave Houghton. Physics students interested in engineering now have multiple graduate pathways at Syracuse University, all supported by a simplified admissions process that rewards their hard work and academic success.鈥
This partnership also reflects Houghton鈥檚 ongoing commitment to its students. By connecting strong academic preparation with achievable pathways to advanced degrees and purpose-filled careers, Houghton continues to prepare graduates who are ready to fulfill God鈥檚 calling for their lives.
黑料科 proudly recognizes our students who earned academic distinction during the Fall 2025 semester. These scholar-servants demonstrated academic excellence for the glory of God, qualifying for the President鈥檚 List, Dean鈥檚 List, and Dean鈥檚 Honors List.
Jill Jordan, Interim Provost of 黑料科, congratulated the students.
Working with highly curious, motivated students is the best part about being part of the Houghton community. Honoring God in academic pursuits now is preparing these students to go out into the world as well-equipped scholar-servants, ready to join other Houghton alumni in living out our founder鈥檚 vision for 鈥渇ixing up the world.鈥 Congratulations to the recipients of these academic honors for their achievements!
Congratulations to all Fall 2025 academic honorees.
President's Listexpand_more
The highest achievement: full-time students who maintain a perfect 4.0 grade point average
Elijah Thomas Allen
Heidi Grace Andersen
Sydney Evelyn Arnold
Logan Fitzpatrick Baer
Elijah Joseph Bailey
Kylee Nicole Barshinger
Rachel Grace Bedell
Katie Jane Berghorn
Jocelyn Renee Berthin
Janek Daniel Bialek
Kyra Binney
Mary Melati Blake
Ryan Alexander Bo
Campbell Page Bowers
Morgan Marie Brace
Victoria Grace Brewster
Sage Alexandra Brinckerhoff
Beatrice Esther Brooks
Natalie Ruth Brown
Johanna Faith Butler
Rune Camps
Tricia A. Carmer
Grace Anne Carpenter
Selah Hope Charles
Clancey Louise Cockle
Julia Emilie Collins
Mason Charles Cool
Lukas Samuel Carl Cornell
Kelsey Gwendolyn Curtis
Taylor Mead Curyto
Hannah Ruth Cuthbertson
Madison Olivia DelCostello
Susannah Joy Denham
Anna Naomi Dening
Tabitha Grace DeVries
Rachel M. Doezema
Hannah Ruth Dunmire
John Robert Dunmire
Matthew Joseph Dunmire
Emily Rae Dunn
Teresa Gabrielle Kisheri Ehabe
Anna Marie Elsigan
Ellie Ruth Eshleman
Hannah Pearl Rose Farley
Arianna Maridel Farrell
Grace Olivia Findley
Isaac John Gasparri
Josiah Daniel Gehman
Riley Kathryn Gillham
Sophia Faith Golden
Mara Jade Gort
Arija Lord Grant
Allison Nicole Griffis
Aubrey Faith Hamm
Eden Ruth Haynes
Caleb Lewis Hilsher
Carissa Joy Horst
Karis Alanna Huebner
Chiara Jean Iantorno
Samuel Caleb James Ioset
Makayla Marie Johnson
Adrianna Josephine Kappmeier
Halle Isabelle Karlson
Jenika Kate Krum
JayDonn Daniel Kuenzi
Caeden Levi Kullander
Ryan James Kullander
Crysta Anne LaCrosse
Aria Irene Larson
Dominic Brian Larson
Noelle Marie Linenfelser
Ernest James Lipscomb
Abigail Christine Lloyd
Abigail Grace Lyon
Elianah Pearl Marr
Joshua David Marr
Jiana Lien Martin
Michael Jordan McGlynn
Thomas George McGlynn
Anna Rileigh McNamara
Marissa Ruby Miller
Nathaniel Luke Murphy
Sadie K. Nakamura
Sara Nicole Neufeld
Emberlynn Renee Nolt
Olivia Renea Ocker
Qiu Maire O’Leary
Risa Palmer
Rachel Kathryn Piefer
Emma Joyce Podobinski
Emily Grace Purgason
Blake David Restivo
Marian Cecilia Rivera
Siena Bridget Rodgers
Annabelle Grace Root
Keiryn Isabel Sandahl
Lydia Grace Schilke
Daniele Schivo
Wesley Keller Simons
Carter James Sisson
Mason Noah Sutherland
Angelina Maria Terry
Lukas Christopher Thompson
Kelsey Marie Thorp
Warren Peter Torraca
Kanta Ueno
Hayden Denton Ulrich
Kate Harumi Ulrich
Riley Allen Van Heukelum
Chesnie Mae Arlene Waddingham
Hannah Elizabeth Wagner
Lily Joy Worden
Samuel Yao
Raychel Yost
Michelle Kathleen Youngers
Jozie Ava Zickafoose
Dean's Honor Listexpand_more
Full-time students with a grade-point average ranging from 3.75 to 3.99
Alayna Rose Akers
Willan John Armes
Chloe Danielle Aten
Chase Owen Bailey
Lucas Oliver Barry
Alexa Lianne Belanger
Conner Luis Benitez
Jennifer G. Bensley
Jenna G. Binney
Lucas J. Birt
Amos D. Bixler
Nathan Michael Bliss
Andrew O. Bo
Ethan M. Briggs
Sarah Kathryn Brunone
Alexander C. Burgett
Kelley Anne Burnett
Rebecca Cain
Matthew Robert Camilleri
Jesse David Carlson
Elizabeth Roisin Carpenter
Samuel M. Cobb
Emma Joy Cole
Amy Beatrice Collins
Zoe-Rayne Simona Coudriet
Elizabeth Ann Crawford
Amber L. Cribbs
Summer L. Cunningham
Emma Makena Dainty
Evelyn Giles Dainty
Zachary Michael Dean
Audrey Skye Doty
Tessa Rayne DuRand
Isabella Julie Eastman
Jean Marie Elwell
Alexa Grace Fadale
Luke Benjamin Feldstein
Diego Andres Fernandez
Jenna Rose Fischer
Addison Rose Fisher
Molly A. Fitzgerald
Jadenne Mariama Fofana
Salim Moses Ford
Elwyn Henry Foster
Evangeline Elizabeth Foster
Linden Charles Foster
Annika Grace Galen
Scarlett Rose Gearwar
Evan Graeme Geer
Dennis John Glinski
Sarah Nicole Goldthrite
Ashleigh Renee Gossman
Brian Michael Graham
Gwenna Haas
Carter Lee Hall
Rachel Renee Harry
Grace Lucille Haynes
Greta Lynn Hewson
Melodie Elisabeth Hodges
Sophia Lynn Hood
Abigail Jean Hoover
Elijah Dean Howard
Josiah Edward Howard
Ethan Keith Howell
Noah Hrustich
Adelle Louise Hunter
Emma Kate Illian
Kristina Elizabeth Irene
Trever Jaques
Julia E. Juron
Grace A. Keir
Grace E. Kellum
Judah Daniel Kennel
Edmund Joseph La Dine
Ephraim Estie Langdon
Bailey Anne Lewis
Vincent Patrick Lucyszyn
Braelynn Ryan Mack
Parker Stephen Magruder
Emily Mahoney
Luke Richard Maliszewski
Philip Joshua Mayo
Joshua Gabriel McManus
Elizabeth Ann Yuskiewicz Medford
Kate Elizabeth Meyers
Connor James Michaelson
Annaleis Hannah Milne
Karryne Ann Mims
Emily Marie Morris
Genevieve Elizabeth-Marie Mortzheim
Peter Josiah Murray
James William John Nelson
Nathan Jeremiah Newcomer
Reuben John Noronha
Dominic Oates
Rebecca Trish Oates
Samuel John O’Brien
Taylor Caroline Pascoe
Lydia Marie Peterson
Alexia Piva Vieira
Carolyn Grace Powers
Jessica Paige Prentice
Yaoxing Qian
Laura E. Quisenberry
Samantha A. Renken
Caitlin Grace Rheam
Elena Shae Roberts
Joel P. Rocha
Tymofii Rozvadovskyi
James Liam Ruthven
Anjuli Grace Saikia
Samantha Reagan Schmaldienst
Analiese June Schreier
Emily Nicole Schweigart
Megan Anna Sensenig
Morley Davis Sharpe
Ella Marie Sheets
Faith Taylor Sherer
Jaedyn B. Shields
Aivery Faithe Shuck
Paige Evangeline Sliwa
Julia Corinne Smith
Rachael Michelle Smith
Jordyn L. Snyder
Rylee Scot Sorrells
Elizabeth Anne Stahl
Janelle Elisabeth Stassel
Aylah Marian Stevens
Raine Cadence Stevens
Grace Elizabeth Stickels
Matthew Stephen Stuart
Shirley Elizabeth Symmerman
Aiden Richard Talcott
Preston Daniel Tobolski
Alice Elizabeth Tomasetti
Anna Marie Carmella Torppey
Zoey Simkje Torppey
Johnathan Patrick Touma
Teghan Leah Trocki
Kareena Nikole Ulfig
Maxwell Lukas Vigue
Natalie Anne Wadin
Hannah Joy Wagher
Tobias Clayton Waldridge
Brianna Melissa Wantuck
Eric Clinton Waterhouse
Eddison Charles Wayman-Bender
Moriah Hope Welch
Caleb James Welker
Hannah Lynn Willistein
Sarah Elizabeth Winne
Isaiah James David Wood
Mara E. Wutka
Aubree Joy Yoder
Mindy Ann Yoder
Mackenzie Lynn Yohe
He Zhang
Dean's Listexpand_more
Full-time students with a grade-point average ranging from 3.50 to 3.74
James Oreofe Adenuga
Maggie Lynn Almeter
Emmalene Christine Amann
Isaac Howard Anderson
Joshua James Armstrong
Noah Thomas Austin
Evan Miles Babbitt
Jared Baesen
Julian Kayle Baker-Flagg
Alianna Barnes
Aurora Shea Bartlett
Abigail Pristine Bates
Caysa Marie Benham
Michael Andrew Blowers
Clara Meadow Bolton
Julianna Rae Bonnett
Isaiah C. Borchert
Chloe Kay Brandenburg
Miriam Grace Brooks
Lincoln Bruce Burlingame
Chandler D. Canary
Michael Peter Carey
Cori M. Carter
Prashansa Sneha Chakrapani
Anna Louise Chappell
Brayden Christopher Chase
Lifan Chen
Peter Jonah Clark
Emmalee Anne Coffin
Melanie Grace Cogan
Katherine Grace Corbeill
Samuel Vrooman Cornwell
Joshua Daniel Correa
Jenna Marie Coventry
Adam Craig Dahl
Bethany Grace Drew
Samuel James Edwards
Mckenzie Ann Ennis
Ethan Robert Ernst
Elena Joy Esh
Lillian Claire Exford
Malachi Isaac Falco
James Robert Fay
Jenna Lyn Fay
Grace C. Finn
Megan Lynn Fish
Thomas Delvin Fish
Madison Jeannette Fleury
Kaylin Joy Fox
Delaney Lord Grant
Jorge Luis Guerra Rincon
Samara Rose Hallett
Jacob Daniel Hinman
Samantha Faith Hudson
Anna Whitney Huizenga
Christine Elizabeth Huther
Aletheia Grace James
Amelia Love Jones
Callie Christine Kaschube
Katrina Brooke Kaufman
Peyton Hope Kellogg
Ty K. Kenney
Lyndsay E. Kitchen
Asher Robson Knight
Ava Elizabeth Kramp
McCabe Brody Kreider
Lydia Ruth LaBarr
Owen Chun-Lok Lai
Leah Joy Lazurek
Braydon Thomas Leary
Malachi Ryan Lewis
Jonas Matthew Likens
Gregory Eric Loper
Marvin Alejandro Lorenzo Soto
Rebecca Elizabeth Mantegna
Hannah Rebecca Matteson
Mari Cecelia Maxon
Waverly Suzanne McBrearty
Maryahna Ruth McCarthy
Stephen Copeland McLamb
Alana Isabel McLeod
Elizabeth Marie McNett
Isaac Joshua Meeder
Karina Mireles
Riley A. Moffat
Amelia Grace Morrow
Timothy Enoch Murray
Danielle Denyse Nelson
Mia Jaelee Noble
Chloe Wenonah Ostrander
Elise C. Ostrander
Skylar Frances Ozimek
Luz Maria Pelayo Pelayo
Magdalene Geniese Marie Pentz
Leah Grace Perry
Ashley Sofia Quinnett
Helena Shandelle Ragsdale
Destin Randall
Simon Elias Reiff
Abigail Hope Renaud
Adah Katherine Ring
Ami Jean Robbins
Meka Alena Robbins
Grace Olivia Russell
Pedro Sebasti谩n Ruz Welker
Eben Walter James Schilke
Giovanni Schivo
Aidan Michael Schooley
Jaxon Joseph Schroeder
Joelle Reese Scribben
Rebekah Noelle Sierson
Zachary David Sisson
Morgan Ren茅e Slate
Nata Oliveira Souza
Jonathan Richard Stacy
Wesley Robert Brotzman Stevick
Peter Kliber Stickney
Ian M. Stout
Axiana Marie Sullivan
Linh Han Thai
Josephine Noelle Thomas
Mya Helen Trainer
Benjamin Charles Unger
Sophia Medora Vernon
Luke Bentley von Hoffmann
Sarah Lynn Weber
Anika Desta Wells
Elizabeth Madison Wertz
Allison Willistein
Matthias Daniel Willistein
Autumn Rose Windham
Elise Kristina Wintersteller
Sierra Zinger
黑料科听is pleased to announce expanded eligibility for the听Lee Scholarship听program, which is听dedicated to听equipping those called to听various forms of听Christian service. Established听by the late听George and Grace Lee, the fund听provides financial support for听students听pursuing undergraduate and听graduate听degrees as they prepare for service听in pastoral ministry, missions, music ministry, Christian education,听non-profit management,听and other service roles within churches and Christian organizations.
With this expansion, graduate students enrolled in programs such as the听Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT)听and听the听Master of Business Administration (MBA)听are now eligible for support through the Lee Scholarship. These programs prepare graduates to serve faithfully and effectively as educators, organizational leaders, and administrators in faith-based schools, churches, and nonprofit ministries.
鈥淭he George and Grace Lee Christian Scholarship Fund听continues听its long history of supporting students as they answer their call to Christian service,鈥 said Wayne D.听Lewis, Jr., president of 黑料科.听By combining financial support with service-based forgiveness, the fund empowers future leaders鈥攊ncluding educators and nonprofit and organizational leaders鈥攖o enter ministry-focused careers without the burden of significant educational debt.鈥
The scholarship is awarded in the form of听a听forgivable loan, providing students with financial听assistance听of up to听half-tuition听for courses听required听to complete their degree program.听Upon completion of the degree, the听loan is forgiven at a rate of听50% for each year听of qualifying full-time Christian service.听Two years of qualifying service听result in听full loan forgiveness.
“Receiving the Lee Grant gave me the financial freedom to fully pursue God鈥檚 calling. Today, as a youth pastor in a small Pennsylvania church, I鈥檓 able to invest in students from many backgrounds because I鈥檓 not weighed down by student debt. My degree in Christian Ministry prepared me to share biblical truth and the love of Jesus with them every day. I鈥檓 deeply grateful for the generosity of George and Grace Lee and the lasting impact their support continues to have on my life and ministry.鈥 Anna Schall ’24
For more information about eligibility, application processes, or program guidelines, please contact听Heather Arnold, Director听of Strategic Partnerships and Graduate听Admission at听heather.arnold@houghton.edu.
黑料科 is excited to announce the appointment of Brian O鈥橤orman as its new Director of Safety and Security. O鈥橤orman brings nearly two decades of experience in law enforcement, investigations, and security leadership, along with a deep commitment to serving others. O鈥橤orman听has听more than 18 years of experience in law enforcement, investigations,听security听and safety leadership. Most recently he has served as a Corrections Officer with the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision where he听was responsible for听emergency response, investigations, compliance audits and听maintaining听the听overall听safety and security of the facility.听His earlier career includes leadership positions in retail security environments, giving him broad and well-rounded experience that will听greatly benefit听the 黑料科 community.
鈥淏rian O鈥橤orman brings an exceptional combination of experience, integrity, and a genuine commitment to听Christian听service,鈥 said听Vice President for Student Life Dr. Bill Burrichter. 鈥淗is background in law enforcement and safety leadership, paired with his heart for people, makes him an excellent fit for 黑料科. We are confident that his leadership will strengthen campus safety while reflecting our institutional values of care, responsibility, and community.鈥
He holds an Associate of Science degree in Criminal Justice, complemented by multiple specialized certifications that enhance his effectiveness in safety and security operations. O鈥橤orman has also听demonstrated听a long-standing commitment to public service as a听former听member of the Wellsville Volunteer Ambulance Corps and the Dyke Street Fire Department.
鈥淪afety and security are most effective when they are built through collaboration,鈥 O鈥橤orman said. 鈥淚 look forward to working closely with students, faculty, staff, and the local community to create a shared culture of awareness, trust, and responsibility. Together, we can ensure that Houghton听remains听a safe, welcoming environment where the entire university community can thrive.鈥
He lives in Cuba, New York, with his wife, Lia, a Houghton听alumna, and their three young children, Ryan, Victoria, and Evan. The family is actively involved in Houghton Wesleyan Church. Outside of work, he enjoys coaching youth baseball, basketball, soccer, and flag football, and spending time outdoors with his family.听He is also an avid听fan听of the Buffalo Bills, New York Mets, and听New听York Knicks.
The Office of the President is pleased to announce the promotion of Dr. Greg Bish to the expanded role of Vice President for Institutional Effectiveness and Chief of Staff.
The new vice president position reflects the University鈥檚 continued emphasis on institutional effectiveness and continuous improvement. In this role, Dr. Bish will provide executive leadership for the University鈥檚 institutional accreditation with the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), as well as provide support for program-level accreditation and strategic priorities. In his new role, he will become Houghton鈥檚 designated MSCHE Accreditation Liaison Officer (ALO).
President Lewis听stated, 鈥淚n his role as Chief of Staff,听Dr. Bish听has听provided听exceptional leadership听as听primary liaison to the Houghton Board of Trustees, organizing their work and supporting their strategic priorities.听He has also provided听invaluable leadership听with听organizing and听facilitating听the work of the executive leadership cabinet (ELC), launching and leading strategic initiatives, and fostering collaboration听across听University听offices.听He is well-prepared and equipped to take on this听new and critically important听executive leadership听role.听鈥
Dr. Bish鈥檚 research and professional background听have prepared him well for听this听expanded听leadership听role. His work has consistently focused on bringing creative solutions to challenges and听identifying听outcomes across the institution.
鈥淚 am honored by the opportunity to serve 黑料科 in this elevated capacity,鈥 said Dr. Bish. 鈥淚 look forward to continuing to support the President鈥檚 vision and working with Houghton鈥檚 leadership to ensure Houghton not only maintains the highest standards of excellence through our accreditation work but also boldly pursues innovative solutions for the future.鈥
In this expanded capacity, Dr. Bish will听retain听his core functions as Chief of Staff, serving as the central coordinator for the Executive Leadership Cabinet, primary liaison to the Board of Trustees, and providing executive support to the president.
Dr. Bish holds a Ph.D. in Higher Education from Azusa Pacific University, an MS.Ed. in College Student Development from Alfred University, and a B.A. in Educational Ministries from Houghton College. He has served as the Chief of Staff since 2021 and will assume his expanded role effective February 1, 2026.
黑料科 is pleased to announce that Carrie J. Whitcher, Chief Quality Officer at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) Insurance Services Division, has been selected as the commencement speaker for the class of 2026.
Carrie brings over 25 years of leadership experience in quality improvement in both payer and provider settings. She brings expertise in health care quality improvement and administrative strategy and execution.听 She is an action-oriented leader who is passionate about improving health care structures and processes to maximize patient outcomes, dedicated to advancing organization-wide culture through matrix collaboration, communication, and team development strategies, and driven to achieve results through innovative strategies and programs
Carrie earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Health Services Administration from the State University of New York College at Fredonia and a Master鈥檚 degree in Health Services Administration from Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio. She has been recognized for her strong leadership at both local and national levels.听 In 2018, she was honored with Diversity Journal鈥檚 Women Worth Watching Award: Executives Leading the Way to Excellence in the Workplace, Marketplace, and the World.听 She has volunteered in a multitude of settings over the years, most recently with The Wesleyan Church, leading the national Marketplace Multiplier movement as their team leader of strategy. She is a 2024 graduate of Leadership Pittsburgh Inc, LP XL and serves on Boards of Directors in the Pittsburgh community.
The commencement ceremony will celebrate the achievements of Houghton’s Class of 2026 on May 9, 2026.
