1999 GRADUATES--The first Ambassador Center graduates are
from left: Aileen Holder, Anne Gerrard, Amy Carlson and
John Putterman. [Photos by Thomas C. Hanson]
By Thomas C. Hanson
AZUSA, California--The Ambassador Center at Azusa Pacific University has its first graduates as Amy Carlson, Aileen Holder, Anne Gerrard and John Putterman received their bachelor's degrees at commencement exercises May 1.
Amy and John are entering the graduate school to pursue master's degrees.
Amy said that "Christ has been so evident on this campus," and she encouraged young people to consider attending there. Anne Gerrard said that APU is "definitely a place for a young Christian to grow."
The Ambassador Center was formed at APU in 1997 to offer a Christ-centered educational opportunity at an accredited institution for WCG youths after Ambassador University closed.
Russell Duke, Ambassador Center director, reported that 19 WCG students attended APU last school year, and that 23 students will attend this fall. Two more students will join the undergraduate program in the spring.
Pastor General Joseph Tkach told WCG pastors: "I pray that you will encourage all talented youths in your areas to consider the Ambassador Center at APU."
The Ambassador Center conducted a graduation banquet on the APU campus April 24.
Dr. Duke introduced the students and was master of ceremonies. Gayle Beebe, dean of the Haggard School of Theology, welcome the group and challenged them to use the WCG transformation experience to enhance the kingdom work of the church.
Jon Wallace, APU executive vice president, called for the students to be prepared to face the world and serve the Lord.
Finally, J. Michael Feazell, director of denominational publications, spoke about the WCG journey, which led to its partnership with APU.
For more information about the Ambassador Center, call 1-626-815-3874, send e-mail to acenter@apu.edu or write to the Ambassador Center, Azusa Pacific University, 901 E. Alosta Ave., P.O. Box 7000, Azusa, California, 91702-7000. The APU Internet website is www.apu.edu, and the Ambassador Center has a website at www.wcg.org/acenter
1999 GRADUATES--The first Ambassador Center graduates are
from left: Aileen Holder, Anne Gerrard, Amy Carlson and
John Putterman. [Photos by Thomas C. Hanson]
VIDEO--John Putterman (right) is interviewed by
Tony Murphy for Festival video.
BANQUET--J. Michael Feazell speaks to graduates and guests April 24.
[Photo by Russell Duke]
COMMENCEMENT--Ceremony takes place on APU football field.
Inset photo: Commencement speaker Greg Laurie, senior pastor of
Harvest Christian Fellowship in Riverside, California.
Copyright © Worldwide Church of God, 1999