News Archive
Dave Blomquist: Cultivating Transformation on the Field
October 09, 2023
Dave Blomquist, MA, is living out his mission as the head coach of Azusa Pacific University’s men’s soccer team. Although his teams have had many triumphant seasons, including going undefeated during regular season play and being ranked No. 1 in all of NCAA Division II in 2019, Blomquist doesn’t measure success through traditional metrics. “I have no idea how many wins I have in my coaching career. As much as I love when our team wins, that’s not nearly as important to me,” he said. “Tell me how many players I’ve coached because that’s the number of opportunities I’ve had to help a young man grow, develop, and be transformed.”
In the News: Wendi Dykes McGehee Featured in LSP Magazine
October 05, 2023
My Favorite Coffee Shops Within 10 Minutes from APU’s Campus
October 02, 2023
When it comes to heavy workloads, study sessions, and never-ending to-do lists, spending a few hours at a local coffee shop offers a space outside of school to buckle down on work, alone or with friends, all while sipping a delicious drink. Here are some of the best coffee shops within a 10 minute drive from Azusa Pacific University’s campus.
October Featured Alumna - Sarah Shahan, MA
October 02, 2023
Jill Lincoln: Cultivating Transformation in Theater Arts
September 28, 2023
Jill Lincoln, MA, loves training the next generation of great storytellers. As the head of Azusa Pacific University’s Department of Theater Arts, Lincoln is passionate about helping students become experts at their craft, sharing impactful stories through the art of acting. “Stories matter. They’re the way in which Christ communicated and if we equip students to become exceptional storytellers, that is success, especially when we’re 20 minutes from the largest entertainment industry in the world,” Lincoln said.
Raphaela Lacerda ’23 Makes Her Mark in Conducting
September 20, 2023
As hundreds of audience members watched, Raphaela Lacerda, MM ’23, took the stage to conduct the San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra (SBSO) for the first time. Lacerda was guest conducting Georges Bizet’s Farandole from L’Arlesienne Suite No. 2 after an invitation from renowned conductor Anthony Parnther for the SBSO’s final performance of 2022. Having only rehearsed with the orchestra for 20 minutes the day before the show, Lacerda remained confident and everything went smoothly as the audience burst into applause as the piece ended. “A lot of people came up to talk to me after the show, complimenting the performance and commenting on how young I was,” Lacerda said. “There were even a few kids who said they wanted to be like me when they grew up. That was a special moment, to think I could be a role model for them.”
APU Theater Presents Rodgers and Hammerstein’s
September 20, 2023
Constitution Day 2023
September 12, 2023
Global Engagement Series: Emily Durbin’s Experience in Turkey
September 12, 2023
After Emily Durbin ’23 graduated in May with a bachelor’s in business management, she embarked on one more opportunity to serve alongside her Azusa Pacific University friends on a three-week Global Engagement trip to Turkey.
Global Engagement Series: Emily Guerrero’s Experience in Romania'
September 07, 2023
Emily Guerrero ’24, a senior journalism major, served on a Global Engagement trip this summer in Romania. She and her team of four Azusa Pacific University students traveled to the capitol of Bucharest for nine days in May.
Global Engagement Series: Kekai Kaaumoana-Cummings' Experience in Italy
August 31, 2023
Kekai Kaʻaumoana-Cummings ’25 is a junior kinesiology major from Hawaii. Like hundreds of Azusa Pacific University students, Kaʻaumoana-Cummings chose to spend part of his summer serving on a Global Engagement trip. He and five teammates traveled to Rome for two weeks to share the Gospel.
September Featured Alumna - Jessica DeWitt, PhD
August 31, 2023
Global Engagement Series: Anthony Chow’s Experience in Guatemala
August 30, 2023
Anthony Chow ’24, a junior nursing major with a minor in philosophical apologetics, served on a Global Engagement trip this summer in Guatemala. He and his team of 11 Azusa Pacific University students visited Guatemala in May and served in a variety of ways. Read on to learn about Chow’s experience:
What to Know about the FAFSA 2023-25 Changes
August 28, 2023
One of the most important aspects of applying to college is understanding financial aid. Whether you’re an incoming first-year student or already have a few years behind you, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the best way to see if you qualify for free financial aid.
College Grant vs. Scholarship: What's the Difference?
August 25, 2023
Navigating financial aid can be challenging, especially if you’re a first-generation student or don’t have any experience with the college application process. The good news is that your financial aid options are fairly straightforward once you understand the terminology surrounding a college grant vs. scholarship.
Is Premed a Major?
August 23, 2023
If you’re preparing for a career as a doctor, you’ve probably heard the term “premed.” But what exactly does that mean when it comes to your education? Is premed a major? Discover the meaning behind this common term and how it can prepare you for medical school and beyond.
What Is a Letter of Recommendation and How Do You Ask for One?
August 21, 2023
When it comes to applying to college, it’s easy to get bogged down in the numbers game. Test scores, grade point averages, and class ranks may seem like the most important factors, but they only tell part of your story. What about the qualities that can’t be quantified?
What Is an Accelerated Bachelor's Degree?
August 18, 2023
If you’re working toward your bachelor’s degree, you’ve probably heard it referred to as a “four-year degree.” Sometimes, people call colleges and universities that offer bachelor’s degrees “four-year schools.”
What Is a Seminary?
August 16, 2023
If you’re interested in Christian ministry or advanced theological studies, you’ve probably wondered: what is a seminary? While you can pursue a graduate degree in religious studies at many universities, seminaries are uniquely designed to help prepare you for ministry in local churches, nonprofit organizations, and academia.
Student Spotlight: Sarah Potts Shares God’s Love Through Community
August 15, 2023
Sarah Potts ’24 loves cultivating community as a resident advisor (RA) in Azusa Pacific’s University Village. While being away from home can be challenging for students, Potts strives to provide a welcoming environment for her residents so they feel seen and known. She gets to know each resident, learning their names and birthdays at the beginning of the semester and she sends them encouraging texts throughout the year. Potts also hosts monthly breakfasts where students can drop in and enjoy a free meal while catching up on life. “Pancakes with Potts is always a lot of fun. That’s how I became friends with many of my residents,” she said.
What Can You Do with a Mechanical Engineering Degree?
August 14, 2023
Engineering is a broad industry, so if you’re considering a career as an engineer, you have several specializations to choose from. But what can you do with a mechanical engineering degree? Even within their niche, mechanical engineering programs are designed to prepare you for an interdisciplinary career that you can apply to a wide range of areas, including aviation, environmentalism, aerospace, and defense.
What Can You Do with an Engineering Concentration?
August 11, 2023
As technology continues to become a cornerstone of modern society, the engineering industry is rapidly expanding. Engineers play a significant role in building the systems that make up our daily lives, and there’s a wide range of applications for people with engineering degrees.
APU Honors Cliff Hamlow at Basketball Alumni Reunion
August 10, 2023
More than 90 alumni ranging from the classes of 1955-89 filled Upper Turner Campus Center to honor their mentor, legendary Azusa Pacific University basketball coach and vice president emeritus Cliff Hamlow ’56, PhD, on Saturday, February 4. The group of former basketball players shared memories of their time as Cougars and the impact Coach Hamlow had on their lives.
What Is a College Major and How Does It Impact Your Academic Experience?
August 08, 2023
As soon as you start applying for colleges, people will likely ask you what your major is. After all, your major plays a large role in deciding what courses you take, what your overall academic experience is like, and what career paths might be available to you after graduation. It’s understandable that your family and friends are interested in your plans for the future. But what is a college major, exactly?
Studying STEM at a Christian University
August 07, 2023
What Is a College Fair?
August 04, 2023
College fairs can be an important part of the college discovery journey. However, if you’ve never attended one, they might seem a bit intimidating. What is a college fair, exactly, and what should you know before attending one? Learn what you can expect at a college fair and how to prepare so you can feel confident in exploring your options—and maybe even choosing a college.
Revival for a New Generation
August 03, 2023
Students on their knees confessing faith in Christ, estranged friends embracing in forgiveness, strangers worshiping God and praying with one another—the Holy Spirit is changing lives on college campuses across the nation, including Azusa Pacific University. Whether described as a revival, an outpouring, or a spiritual renewal, one thing is certain: God is at work.
What Are Honors Colleges?
August 02, 2023
If you’re in the process of applying for colleges and have started receiving informational brochures in the mail, you might’ve noticed requests to apply to a school’s honors college. If you’re unfamiliar with honors colleges, this is probably confusing. What are honors colleges? Are they different types of colleges? How do they compare to traditional universities?
Leading with Discernment
August 01, 2023
If you’re like me, you’ve had countless moments throughout your lifetime when key decisions are before you and your waking hours are consumed with efforts to discern the will of God. I remember a time in 1988 when I was asking God if the girl I was dating would someday become my wife. Faith and I will celebrate 34 years of marriage this summer. I also recall the purchase of our first car and our first home, our decision to move from one church to another, and many other key decisions where we looked to God for wisdom and direction.
What Does Undergraduate Mean?
July 31, 2023
Whether you’re in the process of applying to colleges or you’re already enrolled, you’ve probably heard people use the term “undergraduate” or “undergrad.” Understanding the terminology that surrounds your education can help you navigate your journey with assurance—but what does undergraduate mean, exactly, and where do you go from there?
Living on Campus vs. off Campus: 4 Things to Consider
July 28, 2023
Where you live during college plays a major role in shaping your overall experience. There’s no wrong decision when choosing between living on campus vs. off campus, but there are plenty of aspects to weigh as you decide. Whether you’re an incoming freshman or an upcoming senior, read on to explore some key factors that can help you make the best choice for you.
5 Tips for Your First College Move-In Day
July 27, 2023
College move-in day is finally here, and while you might not feel completely ready, this is one of the most exciting times of freshman year. Remember: most other students feel exactly as you do, so think of move-in day as an opportunity to connect with people who are in the same boat. Snap a few move-in selfies to remember the occasion and lean on these five tips to help ensure smooth sailing.
APU Hosts “Human Flourishing in the Age of AI” Conference
July 26, 2023
While artificial intelligence (AI) is one of the hottest topics in 2023, with countless new developments, many people don’t fully understand what AI is and its possible benefits and potential dangers. Azusa Pacific University’s Center for Research in Science (CRIS) recently hosted a conference entitled “Human Flourishing in the Age of AI,” featuring experts across a variety of fields. “We hope participants walked away from the symposium with a deeper understanding and less fear of AI’s impact on society through actively engaged discussions on how to harness its potential for human flourishing,” said Louise Ko Huang, PhD, director of CRIS. “It was refreshing to hear differing views without arguments. Everyone listened and took the time to understand perspectives different from their own.”
Going to College as an Adult: How to Navigate the Experience
July 24, 2023
Back when you graduated from high school, college wasn’t the next step for you. Maybe you wanted a break from academic life, you needed to work full-time to support your family, or you were eager to join the working world.
Faculty Feature: Phil Cox Encourages Students to Pursue their Dreams
July 21, 2023
Phil Cox, PhD, will never forget his first biochemistry class at Azusa Pacific University. Having just finished his doctorate in pharmacology at Johns Hopkins University, Cox made the decision to go into teaching, unlike many of his peers at Hopkins who chose a career in research. His first class, Principles of Biochemistry, in spring 2017 taught him a lot. “I remember inviting students over to my house for dinner, helping students out during office hours, and the real privilege of students talking with me about the uncertainties in their classes and in their life,” he said.
$200,000 NSF Grant Supports Students STEM Identity through Learning Assistant Program
July 19, 2023
Azusa Pacific University is dedicated to cultivating student success in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) programs. The university recently received a $199,996 grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) to study the effectiveness of learning assistants in the classroom and the experiences of historically underrepresented students in STEM, while providing funding for an additional 10 learning assistants per semester over the next two years. The grant was secured by a team of APU faculty including Bradley “Peanut” McCoy, PhD, Elijah Roth, PhD, Kaitlyn Fitzgerald, PhD, Marian Saleh, MA, MS, and Sharon McCathern, PhD.
Karen Longman Receives Prestigious Fulbright Award
June 27, 2023
Faculty Friday: Michelle Cox Sees Impact Through Ripple Effect
June 23, 2023
Michelle Cox,PhD, loves helping people determine their purpose in life. As the director of Azusa Pacific University’s school counseling program, Cox has equipped thousands of students during her time at APU to become difference makers. “I feel that my calling is to really help others identify their calling,” she said. “I love empowering my students to meet their God given potential.”
Faculty Friday: Mark Gasbarro — Renowned Pianist Brings the Best in Both Music and Teaching
June 16, 2023
Star Trek Beyond, Jurassic World, Whiplash, Jojo Rabbit, and Tomorrowland, are just a few of the films professor Mark Gasbarro has worked on as a pianist. Along with these, Gasbarro has contributed to a number of TV shows, video games, and Pixar films, such as Inside Out, Ratatouille, Cars 2, Coco, The Incredibles, and Up as the film’s piano soloist. Gasbarro also has extensive experience composing, arranging, orchestrating, and producing. Amidst his many projects and career success, he also teaches in Azusa Pacific University’s renowned School of Music. As the director of undergraduate composition studies, Gasbarro conducts the studio orchestra and teaches applied composition, applied piano, and songwriting.
What Are the Most In-Demand Jobs of the Future?
June 14, 2023
Alumni Feature: Ruby McAuliffe ’20 is Living Her Dream as an Editor in NYC
June 13, 2023
Ever since Taylor Swift’s “Welcome to New York” came out in 2014, Ruby McAuliffe ’20 dreamed of moving to the Big Apple. Aside from her favorite singer’s pop hit, the journalist also knew she wanted to pursue a career in fashion, beauty, and commerce fashion — an industry largely based in New York City. Though it came at the cost of leaving friends, family, and familiarity behind, McAuliffe has no regrets about her cross-country move. “I am working my dream job. This is why I wanted to be here. At the same time, there are sacrifices, but my family always reminds me — in the best way possible — we don’t want you here [in California]. They want me to be out here achieving my dreams,” she said.
APU Names Dr. Anita Fitzgerald Henck Provost
June 08, 2023
How Many Credits Do You Need to Graduate College?
June 08, 2023
Whether you’re getting ready to apply to colleges or you already have a few classes under your belt, understanding what it takes to complete your degree can be as daunting as it is exciting. For example, how many credits do you need to graduate college?
Helena Mayer ’20: Reaching the Lost Through Music
June 07, 2023
When Helena Mayer ’20 began her career, she had a pivotal choice to make. Although she had studied worship music at Azusa Pacific University, she felt unsettled about going into a career in Christian music. “I prayed and asked God what He wanted from me. I heard Him say ‘I want you to reach the lost,’” she said. “I feel called to be at the beginning stage of people’s faith journeys. For people who have turned around because they’ve been so hurt by the church, I want my songs to start the process of showing them there’s something more, something worth living for even if that’s not under the description of Christian music.”
Commencement vs. Graduation: What's the Difference?
June 06, 2023
Most fields and institutions have their own commonly used lingo, and that’s true for the world of education, too. Some of these terms are more straightforward than others. For example, you probably know what college graduation means—but what about commencement? If you’re suddenly second-guessing yourself, read on.
