Published September 3, 2018 in News
The Clarks Summit University campus is abuzz with the excitement and anticipation of a brand-new academic year. On Friday, August 24, CSU welcomed the next generation of Defenders as they embark on this new leg of their journey. At CSU we understand what a unique privilege it is to be a key-player in this season of our student’s lives. The college years are some of the most defining in a person’s life and we don’t take the responsibility of walking alongside our students during this time lightly.
“We have an opportunity to help some great students learn God’s truth, guide them to mix truth with their major and discover God’s plan for their lives,” said CSU President, Dr. Jim Lytle.
Vice President of Academics, Dr. Bill Higley, said, “students are the life of a campus. I love it when they return; it’s like we were in a dormant stage all summer—quaint and peaceful though it may be—then all of a sudden it comes to life again. There is a renewed activity, energy and opportunities. It is fun to see the returning students who come back and reconnect with everyone, and it is special to see the excitement of our new students. To me, that is the best part about the start of the new year.”
Dr. Keith Marlett, a professor in CSU’s Counseling Department, is looking forward to the opportunity to meet new students and begin investing in them and their walk with God. He especially loves to hear student’s stories about how God has work in their life up to this point. He said, “I Love hearing from all students their personal story of transformation and being able to gain a better understanding of how God is moving in lives today to build His kingdom.”
CSU faculty and staff strive to know students as individuals and are careful to meet them where they are academically and in their walk with God. From this context they tirelessly work to provide students with opportunities to take what they’re learning in the classroom and apply it in real world settings. From internships, study abroad opportunities and connections in surrounding communities, students leave CSU with more than just head knowledge.
Keila Bascur, of Chile, is a Resident Assistant in Thomson Dorm and a junior in CSU’s counseling program. She is excitedly anticipating her role in our Resident Assistant program because of the many opportunities available for spiritual, personal and academic growth. “I am looking forward to abiding in Christ, serving my fellow students and developing authentic, upbuilding relationships. I also want to be able to practically apply what I am learning in class to my leadership position and use it to benefit the body of Christ!”
The new academic year began on Monday, August 27, and with it some exciting new developments; including a new dean at Baptist Bible Seminary and new majors. The university is also hosting a Ryan Stevenson concert and is preparing for the annual Homecoming celebration where alumni, current students, faculty, staff and the local community can come and connect with one another on the CSU campus.
-Jessica Eddy, senior in the Communications-Writing program
