ɬ 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’s newly launched Doctorate in Healthcare Administration (DHA).
Through this enhanced agreementwith LECOM’s School of Health Services Administration, Houghton students who complete their undergraduate degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA and meet the required admissions criteria willbe eligible for enrollment in any of thesehealthcareprograms. In addition, accepted students will receive a 15%tuition discounttoward their LECOM graduate studies.
Dr. Jamie Potter,Interim Dean of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, says, “Healthcare is one of the most human-centered professions there is, and Houghtonfirmly believesthat 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 inbiomedicalethics,healthcareadministration, and public health — fields that desperately need leaders shaped by faith and purpose.”
Thisnew agreementbuilds upon the existing affiliation between the two institutions, which previously offered early acceptance for up to five Houghton students annually into LECOM’sCollege of Osteopathic Medicine, School of Pharmacy, and School of Dental Medicine. Under thisprogram, qualifying students begin their undergraduate education at Houghton already holding provisional acceptance to LECOM for medical, dental, or pharmacyschool.
Together, these agreementsrepresenta significant expansion of career opportunities for Houghton students pursuing healthcare-related fields—particularly those interested in leadership, ethics, and administrative roles– and reflect Houghton’s ongoing commitment to preparing graduates who are ready to serve with both excellence and purpose
Houghton, NY — ɬ 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 — precisely the values at the core of Houghton’s identity.
“We are thrilled to welcome Dr.Ziefleto Houghton,” saidWayne D. Lewis, Jr.,President of ɬ. “His scholarly formation, his years of leading faculty and programs at a peerChrist-centeredinstitution, 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.Ziefleholds a PhD in Church History and an MDiv from Princeton Theological Seminaryandjoins 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 servinghigh school studentsandunderrepresented communitiesof 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 — 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.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’s 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’s enemies (Numbers 13:30-33). Who can forget Daniel’s conviction to remain true to the God of Israel and God’s 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’s 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, Ihave personally been fortunate to have many influentialChristian mento help form me as a Christian man;particularlymy father, grandfathers, uncles, andcousins.In addition tofamily members, I have had teachers and professional mentors who have guided, encouraged, and correctedme. 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’s 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.As such, Houghton endeavors to provideanurturing Christian community that equips,strengthens, and encourages young men as they prepare to become husbands, fathers, and servant leaders in their homes, families, churches, and communities.IwantHoughton mento 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 inthe lives of young people who desperately need the influence of Christian men in their lives.It is a responsibility to be taken seriously.
Thelives ofBiblical men like Daniel, Caleb,David, and Joseph the stepfather of Jesus,continue to encourage and challengeme.But then,so do the lives and service ofthecourageousChristianmenwho serve atHoughton today.As Houghton’s president, my prayer and my aimisthatthefaith,obedience,failures,and triumphsofBiblicalmen and contemporary Houghton men,inspire the young men studying at Houghtontoact justly, the love mercy,and to walk humbly with God(Micah 6:8).By God’s grace, may it be so.
About 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 ɬ. 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, ɬ received$2,416,964 in gifts and pledgesfrom2,229 supporterson its annual One Day Giving Challenge. These gifts will support Houghton’s Scholar-Servant Fund, endowment growth, capital projects, and academic and co-curricular student experiences.
“We are privileged to equip students for the work and the places to which the Lord is calling them,” said President Wayne D. Lewis, Jr. “For 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.I am thankful for our many friendsand supporters and for God’s continued provision for Houghton through them.”
2026 marks the twelfth One Day Giving Challenge for ɬ. 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’s 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.
“Once 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 ɬ,” stated Karl Sisson, Vice President for Advancement and Alumni Engagement. “Each gift is truly an investment in aspiring scholar-servants who will continue to live out Houghton’s mission around the world.”
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’s 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’s 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:1993
2000s:2005
2010s:2017
2020s: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— ɬ students earned second place at this year’s AHA! Allegany County Startup Collegiate Competition, highlighting the university’s 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.
“Our students came up with some very innovative ideas this year,” said Mark Borchert, Dean of Management and Creative Arts. “They learned about entrepreneurship, teamwork, creative product development, marketing, finance, and oral communication skills. We were very proud of their work.”
ɬ 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 Sweepand Bliss Planners.
The Ignite Discovery Centerteam was supported by faculty mentor Elissa Tyrrell, adjunct professor of business administration at ɬ, 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’s fall semester marks another year of pursuing the Athletics Department’s motto:“Excellence for the Glory of God.”But what does excellence actually look like within Houghton’s teams?Dr. Matthew Webb, Director of Athletics, offers a perspective that reframes the idea entirely.
“I think a misconception would be that excellence equates perfection… Idon’tthinkthat’sthe case,” Webb says. “To me, excellence is more about a pursuit.”
Webb emphasizes that perfection—whether as an athlete, student, oremployee—is impossible. What matters isthe effort. “We’re not going to be perfect,” he says. “But I think we can still be excellent without being perfect.” He draws a parallel to Christian life: believers will never be perfect, yet their pursuit of God is what truly matters.
Whenidentifyingexcellence among Houghton’s athletes, Webb looks beyond wins and losses. While victories are celebrated, he believes true excellence is embedded in the culture of each team. “The excellence that I see in our programs is more behind the scenes,” he explains. “It’s the culture—things that teams are doing to pursue Christ culturally.”
Each team expresses this culture differently.The men’s basketball team sits together at the front of chapel services.The women’s soccer team carries a wooden cross across campus during their annual cross run,prayingand fellowshipping along the way. These traditions rarely take center stage, yet they reveal each team’s 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 athleteswhythey 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 tobuild onlast year’s progress. With a strong start to the fall season—both in performance and team culture—Houghton’s ongoing pursuit of excellence is already in motion.
Houghton Elevates Holistic Athlete Development Through Physical and Mental Performance Initiatives
ɬ Athletics has taken significant steps in recent years to elevate the holistic development of its student-athletes—pairing 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,mentallyand spiritually.
Strength and Conditioning: Building Stronger, Safer Athletes
Launched three years ago under Head Athletic Trainer Austin Walden, Houghton’s 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.
“The goal is to provide structured training programs for our athletes—to help them perform on the field while minimizing the risk of injuries,” Walden explains. “Once our athletes are physically stronger and faster, there’s a decreased chance of injuries.”
Each session includes dynamic warmups, agility drills,sprintsand 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’s basketball playerHannahFarley’27credits the program for improvements in explosiveness, agility, and injury prevention.“Austin does a great job at implementing exercises that are game-like,” she said.“I’ve seen growth in my explosiveness and agility, and I’ve been blessed to avoid major injuries.”
Walden has likewiseobservedfewer 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 withJason Rollins, founder ofHolos 360and a certified Mental Performance Mastery Coach, to bolster athletes’ mental preparation and resilience.
Director of AthleticsDr.Matthew Webbsays the partnership grew from a desire to give student-athletes proactive mental performance resources: “It’s not mental health resources particularly—it’s proactive, intentional mental performance training.”
Rollins’ curriculum guides athletes through three phases—preparing well, performing well, and reflecting well—each 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 theirImagoDei—their identity as people created by God—so they compete from a place of purpose rather than pressure.
“When athletes understand that their identity is placed in who God made them to be, it releases them to perform at their best,”Rollinssays.
Early feedback from athletes has been highly positive. Webb notes that while conversations with Rollinsremainconfidential, students have expressed appreciation for the program’s impact.
A Unified Approach
Together, Houghton’s 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 ispreparingits teams to compete with confidence, resilience, and purpose—reflecting 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 ɬ Track and Field team and a member of the ɬ Cross Country Team.
The 1926-1927 academic catalog is the first to show pre-medical as a possible major—described as a “composite major”—at Houghton College & Seminary. This coincides with the hiring of ProfessorDorahBurnell, 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’s chemistry department while fulfilling countless other roles on campus.
Along with colleagues in the ScienceDepartment, Professor Burnell helped studentsestablishedThe Pasteur Pre-Medic Society.In its inaugural appearance in the Boulder in 1928, the society described its aim as“…to 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.” The inaugural group boasted 27 membersand by the 1950s, the club was one of the largest and most active on Houghton’s campus.
Today known as thePre-Health Professions Club, the groupremainsone of Houghton’s largest and most active clubs. Their aim, similarly, is“…to serve as an information resource and generate opportunities for fellowship, career exploration and volunteer service for students interested in health-related fields.”
In the dedication of the 1954 Boulder, studentsobservedof Professor Burnell that“[h]er influence was there… Lights were shining out from the meticulously kept chemistry lab until the early morning hours. On the desk were carefully graded papers—around the room was all the valuable equipment she hadprocured. From this lab alumni went forth to succeed… herinfluencewas there.”
Professor Burnell’sinfluenceremains—in Houghton’s chemistry labs, in the Pre-Health Professions Club, in thelives of service led by so many ofour alumni.Professor Burnell’s influencehasplayed 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,“fix up the world for Christ.”
I began my Houghton journey in 2011 as a biology major with a chemistry minor. I completed the firstyearScienceHonors program, andwasvery involvedin thePre-healthProfessionals 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 thechallengingcurriculum that was comingingraduate school.
I applied to veterinaryschoolmy senior year and was accepted to Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. Thecourseload was intense in depth and breadth, butI felt Ihad a solid foundation from Houghton. I graduated from Cornell in 2019 and started working at Perry Veterinary Clinicin Perry, New York,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 throughoutWestern NewYork. I even go to calls at the Houghton Equestrian center—talkabout coming full circle!
One of the joys in this profession is the opportunity I have to mentor students—whetherthey’re in veterinaryschool or are in theirpre-vetstudies.GivenPerry Veterinary Clinic’sproximity to Houghton, wehave the privilege tohost quite a few pre-vet students, includingZachary Wolfer ’24, who is now a D.V.M. candidate at Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine, andcurrent pre-veterinary studentGreg Loper ’28.This isa greatopportunityfor me to be able to give back to a community that gave me so much. Recently,I’vehad some students join me who went to Houghton fortheirundergraduateand are now in veterinaryschool.
During these externships,we always haveample time to chat in thetruck inbetween calls. The conversationinevitablygoes back toourfairlyuniversalHoughton experiences—”Organic chemistry was so challenging, wasn’t it?” or “Did you love microbiology?” Maybe“Did youtakeaMaytermoff-campus?” or“Were you purple or gold?”(Team Purple!)
And often,most commonly— “Wasn’t Houghton the best? I loved it there.”
Jenna (Hill ‘15) Smith, D.M.V.is a large and small animal veterinary and partnerwithPerry Veterinary Clinic in Perry, New York. Sheholds abachelor of sciencein biology from ɬ and adoctorate of veterinary medicinefrom Cornell University
“My time at ɬ was instrumentalformy success in veterinary school and provided me with the foundation to excelimmediatelyat Kansas State University. The 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. The 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.”
Zachary Wolfer’24 DVM Candidate, Class of 2028 Kansas State University
EricaHaefner ’27 isa ɬ 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, “After a lot of injuries and physical therapy sessions, I realized this is something I am really passionate about.” After further research and shadowing opportunities, shedeterminedthat this is whatshe’scalled to do.
Erica’s goals to become a physical therapist align with her faith and her passion for serving others. Shestates, “I have a very strong passion for helping people, especially helping them learn more about their own bodies.” She draws from her own experience as a patient attending physical therapy sessions, explaining that “The physiciansand doctors I connected with most were the ones who taught me what was actually going on in a simple way that I could understand.” As a future physical therapist, she hopes to draw on her positive experiences to help her patients understand themselves andenhance recovery.
Erica namesAnatomy and Physiology,taught by Dr. Donald Wilcox,as her favorite class.She’salso 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 takesa number ofclasses.She’slooking forward to takingInjury and Evaluationthis Springsemester, andeagerlyanticipatesentering 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’s assistant. “It’s a really good way to connect with people,” Erica shares.
About her goal to become a pediatric physical therapist, Erica says,“This is what God is calling meto do.I need to live that out and do the best that I can do.”
EricaHaefner ’27 isa junior from Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, majoring in exercise science on the graduate track.
Salim Ford ’28 is a sophomore from Arkport, New York, majoring in English and Writing. He is a member of theCross Countryteam, the Highlander Chorus and Chamber Choir.
To Serve Christ Well
By Sam Gerardi ’18
Iarrived atɬin2014and like many young adults, Iwasconfident that I knewpreciselywhat I wanted to do. Iplanned tomajor incommunication and focus on videography and photography. That plandidn’tlast long. I found myself drawn tobiochemistry, a fieldthat fit how I was wired.I’vealways wanted tointegratescience and faith in a way that allowedme to love people well, and Houghton became the place where that desiretookshape.
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 ’03, for help during an experiment. He responded, “No, you figure it out.” Dr. Rowley and many of my professors understood that true learning happens at the interface between what you know and what you don’t. 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 mybiochemistry degree at Houghton also fulfilled my pre-pharmacy prerequisites, and Iwouldn’thave 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 workat Buffalo General Medical Center as an Emergency Medicine Clinical Pharmacist.I learned to take ownership of my learning, stay motivated, and value collaboration.
I still rely on the habits and mindset Houghton fosteredto thinkcritically, evaluatedata, and apply knowledgethat knowledge to my patients. To serve Christ well is to serve others well, and Houghton gave me the foundation to do exactly that.
SamGerardi’18 completed abachelor’s of sciencein biochemistry with a pre-pharmacy concentration. He completed hisD.Pharm. atD’YouvilleUniversity 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).
When I arrived at Houghton,biology was myfield ofchoice, but I had little direction beyond that. I certainlydidn’timagine working as an Associate Professor,with my days full of not just patient care, butteachingmedical students,residentsand fellows. Ididn’timagine thatI’dgo to Kenya,building friendshipsandschools, and providing healthcare for their runners. Ididn’timagine that it would be possible to have a career as well as be a wife,motherand friend.
Deep friendships, strongmentorsand meaningful solitude mark my time at Houghton.The girls ofHazlett34, now lifelong friends,held an MCAT party for me. They dressed up like cats and performed a hilarious, yet strangely encouraging, original poem. Idon’tthink Iwould’vemade it without them. Looking backonthe classroom, I was blessed to learn from some of the most vibrant professors. Dr.AaronSullivan taught me about patience and simplicity. Dr.LarryChristensen opened each organic chemistry class with a pithy saying or a short story, bringing joy to learning.ProfessorSunshineLeonard’01always reminded us that our worth was not in our grades. Dr.CathyFreytag generously welcomed me into her life as a friend. It was also during thesefouryears that I found a“frenemy”in distance running. During the volleyball off-season,I’dspend countless hoursrunningthe shoulders ofRoute 19or dizzying laps around theold suspendedtrack. UsuallyIranby myself, withonlymy 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 literalWestern New Yorkblizzards.
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 myfamilymedicine residency, sports medicineseemeda natural fit. My dad’s career was in professional sports (not to mention my mom,Linda (Clow ’76) Jarvis, andbrother,Landry Jarvis ’10,were both Houghton athletes), so my childhood was full of practices, games, and injuries. Plus, my osteopathic education seta strong foundationfor musculoskeletal medicine.
During my fellowship year, I was introduced to Running the Race(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,fiveyears 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 toestablishsports medicine care in the “Home of Champions.”
I nevercould’veimagined 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 nevercould’veimagined a life in Kenya where I work with some of the best runners in the world. I nevercould’veimagined 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, countlessfriendsand a supportive community.It’smore exhausting and more extravagant than I could have dreamed. Nothing is perfect on this side of heaven, neithermy life nor Houghton, butGodfaithfully works in the broken places.I’mbeyond grateful to the Lord for these friends and mentors (many unmentioned) and the many miles.I’mthankful that Houghton is a willing vessel for His ways that are higher than ours.
Laura (Jarvis ‘06)Lintner, D.O.,is a doctor of sports medicine and family medicine with Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Family Medicine andan associate professor of family and community medicine at Wake Forest University School of Medicine, both in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. She holds abachelor of sciencein biology from ɬ and adoctor of osteopathyfromNova Southeastern University (Davie, Florida).
When studentswalksthrough 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 mightneedand that shadowing someone in the profession isa good idea—andmay evenberequired. They know excellent grades, top scores on entrance exams, and stellar letters of recommendation are necessary.However, they usually don’t knowwhythey want to taketheparticular paththey’ve 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’ve 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 “why medicine is for me.”
Not a single studentwill walk thesame path. Each one must developanindividual planalongside their advisors, and then they mustallow for adjustments as theylearn and grow in their own experiences and abilities. Conversationswith my studentsare often long,and sometimes hard,as they realize their own limitations,discovertheir real interests, andexploretheir unique skills. They start tofindtheirown personal vocational path, and theybegintothinkdeeplyabout theirwhy.
In order todiscover their true passion for the vocation of medicine,mystudentsmust move beyond the basics of grades,transcripts,aptitudes,and idealized visions of medicine tofind their passion andtheirreason for pursuing thisjourney.
So, how does Houghton helpstudentsdiscovertheirwhy? Theylikely won’tfind it in a classroom, or a lab, or even shadowing a physician. Healthcare isapeople-oriented, service-oriented field fraught with disparity, inaccessibility, and loopholes. Toprepare students for the reality of serving in the medical field,they must engage with medicine and the healthcare fieldin the most realistic wayspossible.
Houghton studentsneed to step out of theirclassroomsand into theircommunity.Our students are encouraged to engage in service opportunitieslikevolunteering at the campus influenza vaccineclinic,assistingthe Red Cross at communityblood drives, andinvesting inopportunitiesthat place them in direct communicationwith our rural,low-income communityhere in Allegany County.
Once studentsstart engaging, in addition toobservingand learning, they discover theycan playvital rolesin their own communities. They start to see notwhatthey can be—amedical provider—butwhothey can be. Theybeginto understand ways they can serve the peoplearound them in medicine. They realize “why medicineisfor me.”Their realizations areusually rooted in a single powerful idea:beingthe hands and feet of Jesusisn’ta symboloran image we can behold,it’sthe physical act of showing love,compassionand 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 ɬ.
Students’ paths into Houghton’s pre-med track mightlooksomewhatsimilar, but siblingsDr.Jonathan Figueroa ’13andDr.Alyssa Figueroa ’14discovered that the pathsbeyond Houghtonare as unique and varied as the students themselves.
Jonathancameto Houghton in the fall of 2009thanks to adesireto study ata Christian liberal artscollegeknown for itsstrongpre-med programanda little guidance fromfellow Timothy Christian School (Piscataway, NJ)alumnusTyler Haggerty ’08. Although Jonathandidn’tinitially plan to playcollegiatesoccer, a campus visit introduced him tothe coach at the time,Dr.MatthewWebb,and a team of great young men—solidifying Jonathan’sdecisionto attend Houghtonandpursue a biology degree on the pre-med track.
Alyssa, like Jonathan, grew up with aspirationsof becominga physician. Although Houghtonwasn’tinitially at the top of her list, she loved the small class sizes and intimate feel of campus. During acampusvisit for a winter indoor soccertournament, Alyssa metCoachDavid Lewis and a few incoming teammates.The opportunity to study in the Balkans with Houghton’s East Meets West honors program was the final selling point.A year after her brother, Alyssa alsoenrolled at Houghtonas a biology major on the pre-med track.
The Figueroa siblings were attracted bythe wayHoughton facultyindividualized the pre-health professions track. According to Dr. Jamie Potter,Interim Dean of Natural Sciences and Mathematics,Professor of Biology and Director of Pre-Health Professions, faculty help students identify what they love most abouthealth professions andthenalign those passions withtheir academic and co-curricular experiences to put each student on the best possible path.
Both Jonathan and Alyssabenefittedfrom guidance and advising from Dr. Potter, along with insights from beloved Professor Emeritus of Biology Dr. Jim Wolfe, former biology professorsDr. Matthew Pelletierand Dr. Aaron Sullivan,andcampus physicianDr. David Brubaker ’90. Alyssa hadvisions ofinternalmedicineor pediatricswhile Jonathaninitially considered a career ininternational medicine.
“I liked having professors who really took the time to get to know me,” shared Jonathan. “They wanted me to perform well, but they also challenged me. Nothing wasgiven,I had to work for it.”
Alyssareflected onthe well-known challenges presented byDr. Karen Torraca’s ’93infamous organic chemistry course—affectionately (or not) known by generations of Houghton students as “O-Chem.”
“I hadaconversation with Dr. Wolfe as well as Dr. Potter, wondering if I should keep pursuing medicine, ifitwasgoing to be possible for me,” said Alyssa.“They were mentors who assured me I was capable, that everyonestrugglesand itwasn’tmeant to be easy.Thatclose mentorship was important to me.”
Jonathan’sinternationalinterests resulted in a minor in public health, which included a study abroad opportunityin Ecuadorwith former intercultural studies professorDr. NdungeKiiti’88. Dr.Kiitiinspired Jonathan to see health beyond a medical and pharmaceutical viewpoint,helping himdiscover how tointegratehis faith with his work—a formative learning experience he carries into his work today.
Alyssa explored options in both osteopathic and allopathic medicine, and in heradvising withDr. Potter discovered that osteopathic medicinewas the right approach to her career aspirations.AlyssafoundLake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM), in Erie, Pennsylvania,to be the rightoptionfor her to pursuemedical school.
Jonathan was intent onpursuit ofallopathic medicine.After Houghton, Jonathan attended St. George University School of Medicine (Grenada),motivated by St. George’s placement rate at his residence hospital of choice—New York Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital. Afterthree yearsinresidency, Jonathandid 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 outpatientclinical setting. Alyssadidher residencyin internal medicine at Jefferson Health Northeast in Philadelphia. When her husbandLucas, a member of the US Air Force, was stationed for active duty in Tucson, Arizona, shetook on the role ofinternal medicine hospitalist at Northwest Healthcare—Tucson. She recently wasalsoappointedAssociate Director for the Internal Medicine Residencyat 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.
“Houghton’s affiliation with the Wesleyan Church broadened my scope of howtoapproach Christianity and meld it with medicine,”saidAlyssa. “In Medical Ethics with Professor BenjaminLipscomb, Ithought about taking care of people from allwalks of lifeand all perspectives and religions and backgrounds. I thought deeplyabout how I would approach my beliefs within the medical system.”
“There is benefit to having a strong conviction about your beliefs,” remarked Jonathan. “But I think that some of whatwe’reseeing in the world today ismore or less aresult of not being able tohear the other side and not being able to love people who are different. Part of my education at Houghton was that—loving people who arevery different. Houghton allowed me to explore how to love in the way that Christ would love and still hold my convictions strongly.”
Lifelong learning is a thread running through the fabric of 1986 graduate Dr. Tim Coetzee’s 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 ’77) Donaldson. He was interested in a career as a physician, and Kathleen shared Houghton’s outstanding pre-med reputation with him. As a missionary kid and pastor’s 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’s choice.
Tim started his Houghtonjourney,ashavemany alumni, on the Highlander Wilderness Adventure under the leadership ofDoris “Mabel” Nielsen ’71. During Highlander, he read Francis Schaeffer’sThe Mark of a Christian, and it was a defining moment. “Fortyyears later,” said Tim, “I still remember the impact of that book.It’sa bit of an organizing principle for me today. There are so many things we could be distinguished by, but the idea that‘they’ll know you by your love for each other’is something that infuses the work I do today.”
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’s love of biology and desire to move away from clinical medical practice landed him in Houghton’s 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—doing science in a lab rather than simply listening to a lecture.
“It was great, because at Houghton I was pretty much learning by doing,” said Tim. “The uniqueness of Houghton was that I was doing a lot of research on my own, figuring things out for myself through trial and error. Itwasn’tan opportunity I would have had at larger institutions.”
Tim completed two independent research projects and a senior honors project during his time at Houghton. Healsofound his passionat Houghton,inDr. Charles Detwiler’s ’72classroom 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—particularlythat now-famous molecule mRNA.
Tim’s work in molecular biology put him on a path that led through research labs with fundingprovided bythe National Multiple Sclerosis Society, to offices where he managed projects and started up the for-profit research armFastForwardLLC. He found himself on another learning curve, which required him to rely on the soft skills he picked up at Houghton—particularlyeffectivecommunication.
“Dr. Munro instilled the importance of communication,” remarked Tim. “Ilearnedthat clarity in communication, bothin how you write and in how you speak,is important. But because the ideas in science often require visuals, I also learned about the importance of visuals that have clarity and impact.”
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’s work makes in the lives of people living with multiple sclerosis.
And itisn’tjustthecommunication skillshoned at Houghtonthat Timrelieson. “The commitment to people is something I continue to carry with me.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.”
“Houghton taught me the importance of constantly learning.You’reneverdone.It’snevertoolate to be a better leader.”
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’s mission is so vitallyimportant,todayand tomorrow.
As students come to Houghton,theyare 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. Forsome, their understanding of how the Lord wants to use them is evolving.For others, they are confident of vocational callings in ordained ministry, as teachers orasmusicians.Among the group of students who come to Houghtontypicallyhaving recognizedearly academic giftedness and ability are those preparing for careers in the health sciences.
Pre-health studentsrepresenta healthyportionof the Houghton student body. While their beds and clothes are in their residence hall rooms, many of themspendingmost of their wakinghours(and some of their sleepinghours!)in the Paine Center for Science. As they matriculate,more and moreof their coursework is taken in Paine, but outside of class, youarelikely to find small groups of students in laboratories, faculty offices,anddedicated 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 tohavelong and impactfulcareers as medical doctors,nursesand medical missionaries.Houghton continues to provide outstanding preparation for students who pursue nursing, D.O.andM.D degrees.
But additionally,with robust partnerships with professional and graduate programs,Houghton is preparing students for vocations in veterinary science, physical therapy, pharmacy, occupational therapy, nutrition and dietetics, dentistry, and athletic training.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’s rich history inthe healthsciences. We are grateful to be a part of what God has done and continues to do in and through the lives of our graduates.
ɬ hasestablisheda new engineering master’s pathway agreement with Syracuse University, creating expanded opportunities for students pursuing advanced studies in engineering.
Through this bachelor’s‑to‑master’s pathway, Houghton students majoring in Applied Physics who meet Syracuse’s admission criteria can secure earlyadmission to master’s programs in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, and Engineering Management.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 — saving time, reducing application costs, andeliminatingthe guesswork.
Moreover, students who have not decided on a specific engineering degree can receive theirBachelor’sin Applied Physicsand gain invaluable preparation, coursework, and researchexperience to better decide on the career path that fits their interests without falling behind in their educationaltraining.
Dr Mark Yuly, Professor of Physics at ɬ, says:
“This opportunity allows students tokeeptheiroptionsopenwhile they’re undergraduates, andchoose their engineeringspecialty later in graduate school. The Applied Physicsdegreegives thema broadfoundation inscience and math– the kindof versatile preparation that opens doors in many directions, not just one.”
Students whomaintaina 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’s degree in as little as three to four semesters, creating a pathway tofacilitatetheir transition into professional engineering roles.
Jill Jordan, Interim Provost at ɬ, shared, “This 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.”
This partnership also reflects Houghton’s 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’s calling for their lives.
ɬ 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’s List, Dean’s List, and Dean’s Honors List.
Jill Jordan, Interim Provost of ɬ, 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’s vision for “fixing up the world.” 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 Sebastián Ruz Welker
Eben Walter James Schilke
Giovanni Schivo
Aidan Michael Schooley
Jaxon Joseph Schroeder
Joelle Reese Scribben
Rebekah Noelle Sierson
Zachary David Sisson
Morgan Renée 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
ɬis pleased to announce expanded eligibility for theLee Scholarshipprogram, which isdedicated toequipping those called tovarious forms ofChristian service. Establishedby the lateGeorge and Grace Lee, the fundprovides financial support forstudentspursuing undergraduate andgraduatedegrees as they prepare for servicein pastoral ministry, missions, music ministry, Christian education,non-profit management,and other service roles within churches and Christian organizations.
With this expansion, graduate students enrolled in programs such as theMaster of Arts in Teaching (MAT)andtheMaster of Business Administration (MBA)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.
“The George and Grace Lee Christian Scholarship Fundcontinuesits long history of supporting students as they answer their call to Christian service,” said Wayne D.Lewis, Jr., president of ɬ.By combining financial support with service-based forgiveness, the fund empowers future leaders—including educators and nonprofit and organizational leaders—to enter ministry-focused careers without the burden of significant educational debt.”
The scholarship is awarded in the form ofaforgivable loan, providing students with financialassistanceof up tohalf-tuitionfor coursesrequiredto complete their degree program.Upon completion of the degree, theloan is forgiven at a rate of50% for each yearof qualifying full-time Christian service.Two years of qualifying serviceresult infull loan forgiveness.
“Receiving the Lee Grant gave me the financial freedom to fully pursue God’s calling. Today, as a youth pastor in a small Pennsylvania church, I’m able to invest in students from many backgrounds because I’m 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’m deeply grateful for the generosity of George and Grace Lee and the lasting impact their support continues to have on my life and ministry.” Anna Schall ’24
For more information about eligibility, application processes, or program guidelines, please contactHeather Arnold, Directorof Strategic Partnerships and GraduateAdmission atheather.arnold@houghton.edu.
ɬ is excited to announce the appointment of Brian O’Gorman as its new Director of Safety and Security. O’Gorman brings nearly two decades of experience in law enforcement, investigations, and security leadership, along with a deep commitment to serving others. O’Gormanhasmore than 18 years of experience in law enforcement, investigations,securityand safety leadership. Most recently he has served as a Corrections Officer with the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision where hewas responsible foremergency response, investigations, compliance audits andmaintainingtheoverallsafety and security of the facility.His earlier career includes leadership positions in retail security environments, giving him broad and well-rounded experience that willgreatly benefitthe ɬ community.
“Brian O’Gorman brings an exceptional combination of experience, integrity, and a genuine commitment toChristianservice,” saidVice President for Student Life Dr. Bill Burrichter. “His background in law enforcement and safety leadership, paired with his heart for people, makes him an excellent fit for ɬ. We are confident that his leadership will strengthen campus safety while reflecting our institutional values of care, responsibility, and community.”
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’Gorman has alsodemonstrateda long-standing commitment to public service as aformermember of the Wellsville Volunteer Ambulance Corps and the Dyke Street Fire Department.
“Safety and security are most effective when they are built through collaboration,” O’Gorman said. “I 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 Houghtonremainsa safe, welcoming environment where the entire university community can thrive.”
He lives in Cuba, New York, with his wife, Lia, a Houghtonalumna, 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.He is also an avidfanof the Buffalo Bills, New York Mets, andNewYork 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’s continued emphasis on institutional effectiveness and continuous improvement. In this role, Dr. Bish will provide executive leadership for the University’s 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’s designated MSCHE Accreditation Liaison Officer (ALO).
President Lewisstated, “In his role as Chief of Staff,Dr. Bishhasprovidedexceptional leadershipasprimary liaison to the Houghton Board of Trustees, organizing their work and supporting their strategic priorities.He has also providedinvaluable leadershipwithorganizing andfacilitatingthe work of the executive leadership cabinet (ELC), launching and leading strategic initiatives, and fostering collaborationacrossUniversityoffices.He is well-prepared and equipped to take on thisnew and critically importantexecutive leadershiprole.”
Dr. Bish’s research and professional backgroundhave prepared him well forthisexpandedleadershiprole. His work has consistently focused on bringing creative solutions to challenges andidentifyingoutcomes across the institution.
“I am honored by the opportunity to serve ɬ in this elevated capacity,” said Dr. Bish. “I look forward to continuing to support the President’s vision and working with Houghton’s 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.”
In this expanded capacity, Dr. Bish willretainhis 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.
ɬ 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. 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’s 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. In 2018, she was honored with Diversity Journal’s Women Worth Watching Award: Executives Leading the Way to Excellence in the Workplace, Marketplace, and the World. 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.
