SPORTS nick grunsky: student, athlete, future soldier 10 lifestyle themed housing overview 7 OPINION take your five

strengths seriously 9

Clause
student voice of azusa pacific university since 1965 WEDNESDAY, sept. 25, 2013 VOL. 50, No. 2 www.theclause.org
the wire
As the opening date nears, they will host a free pizza day.
Annie Z. Yu photo

New study abroad options in New Zealand, Ecuador 3

Christian Sanchez graphic

Transgender theology professor controversy

Coming soon: Pieology

Chamber Singers victorious abroad

APU placed first in international singing competition while representing the US
Jeremiah Hill
staff writer

A pizzeria known for its makeyour-own pizzas is opening across from East Campus next to Yogurtland in late Oct. 2
Online exclusives

Screenwriters enjoy new BFA

Daniela Pamfilie photo

The new degree program offers screenwriters a more in-depth field of study.

Kayla Landrum photo

Annie Z. Yu photo

the tentative pending removal of Dr. Heather Ann Clements, who now goes by Heath Adam Ackley, from teaching has made national headlines.
Full story & student responses page 5 Opinion: Students Speak page 8

19 countries: All in an APU summer

Look online to see sports recaps covered this week.
APU Sports Information Courtesy

Jamie Garcia
staff writer

Football wins home opener

The Cougars defeated Humboldt State 282 last weekend and look to take on Central Washington this Saturday.

weets @apuclause

@tatave_a | Tatave: and on Wednesdays we go to chapel twice. #iHeartapu @Arissa_18 | Arissa: Mexicali has like the two best looking dudes Ive seen. #marryme #iHeartapu @zachdougthe1st | Zach: Chivalry is dead when it comes to getting on the trolley #IheartAPU @jremington12 | Joseph: Whats a whales favorite chapel? Answer: krill-eo #iheartAPU
Find more tweets in Opinion. To see your tweets here, hashtag #apuclause, #apu or #iheartapu.

This summer APU sent student and staff action teams to 19 different countries on mission trips. The Center for Student Action helps prepare and mobilize students to serve locally and globally, in hopes that they not only make a difference but come home transformed as well. CSAs motto says it all: Dont fool yourself into thinking that you are a listener when you are anything but, letting the Word go in one ear and out the other. Act on what you hear!

The motto comes from James 1:22 in The Message. The center has a longtime desire to make APU students difference makers. Each year its work continues to grow with more and more willing students eager to go out in the world and discover new things about themselves and Gods people. INDIA Senior liberal studies major Stephanie De Wyn made a lifechanging decision to go to Kolkata, India, last summer with five other women and three men.

They worked with an organization called Good News Childrens Ministry as well as five Mother Teresa homes. De Wyn explained that she worked at Shanti Dan with girls and women age 1530 who were mentally challenged, and at Daya Dan with kids 518 with similar disabilities. Both of those experiences were really rewarding for me because I want to go into special education, and it definitely just reaffirmed that thats what I want to do with my life, De Wyn said. Its

The APU Chamber Singers represented the U.S. and achieved victory in a prestigious competition this summer with a strong blend of determination, humility and will to succeed. This year marked the 50thInternational Choral Competition in Spittal an der Drau, Austria. The Chamber Singers formed one of 10 international choirs selected to compete, and defeated the likes of Spain, Italy and the Czech Republic.The group didnt just win, howeverit won with room to spare. The Chamber Singers spent months preparing for the competition, held from July 47, and the results served as a testimony to the choirs hard work. Each person knew they had to own their chair and they did, said baritone singer and junior business administration major Alex Tutungi. Tutungi had high praise for director Michelle Jensen, saying that despite the groups humbling lack of experience, the singers had faith in the ability and leadership of their conductor. Daniel Atwell, a cello performance major and graduate student, sings tenor for the Chamber Singers. He served as tour manager for the trip and opened up about the future opportunities the victory presented. The victory in Spittal has brought the Chamber Singers international recognition and with that has

see missions 7

see singers 6

Weathering the storms: What happens when lightning hits?

Athletics uses new monitoring system in lightning protocol
Steven Mercado
sports editor

Lightning has made an appearance in each of the past two weeks at Azusa Pacific sporting events. The first appearance at the mens soccer game against Hope International Monday, Sept. 9 resulted in a 30-minute delay, while the second, at the

football game on Saturday, Sept. 14, resulted in a two-hour delay. Even the NFL had an issue with lightning during the season opener in the Mile High City during the Denver Broncos and Baltimore Ravens game on Sept. 6. When lightning flashes its way into the spotlight these issues must be readily resolved. Head athletic trainer April Reed and the rest of her team have a plan that has been developed and tweaked over the last seven years. The lightning protocol developed consisted of a method known as flash-to-bang, where the seconds

between the flash and the bang of the lightning is counted and divided by six. The result tells how many miles away the flash is. According to Reed, this system had some rough spots that needed fixing. We would get so many flashes and so many bangs that I couldnt tell what went to what, and it was getting pretty close, so we got a monitoring system, which is a handheld device that tells [us] how far away the lightning [is], Reed said. Notifying the players and coaches of the lightning was a problem. Trying to find a way to notify everyone in

danger of the nearby lightning all at once, Reed introduced some changes to the monitoring system, including a method of notifying the coaches of each team, Campus Safety, Risk Management and intramurals. We had to postpone a couple of matches a year ago, and we got a lot of grief from officials and some of the coaching staff [who were] upset that we had to postpone it, Reed said. Now that these things are so public with the NFL and all of that happening, it has normalized what we have

see lightning 10

Wednesday, Sept. 25, 2013

Clause

theclause.org/nEWs

campus safety report

The following are selected incidents as reported from the Daily Media Log from Sept. 15 through Sept. 21, courtesy of Campus Safety.

CALENDAR
Thursday, Sept. 26

compiled by hunter foote

Sex in the Church

Dr. Brian Lugioyo will kick off the Faith Matters lecture Sseries, hosted by the Graduate School of Theology, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in Duke 127.

sunday, Sept. 15 Smith Hall Student reported sexual misconduct. sunday, Sept. 15 foothill blvd Student worker observed a vehicle which matched the description of a vehicle involved in a grand theft. Officer responded, but the vehicle was not the same vehicle. Tuesday, Sept. 17 Alosta Place Reporting person called and advised that his apartment had been broken into overnight. A report was taken. Wednesday, Sept. 18 UTCC Student worker advised of a suspicious package. Officers responded and advised the package belonged to a student. Wednesday, Sept. 18 Bowles West Court Reporting person called and advised that she smelled gas in her apartment. Officers responded and found the source of the minor leak, however, emergency medical services were called to assist with the RP. Friday, Sept. 20 Parking Lot I Reporting person reported a hit-and-run. An officer responded and reported the incident. Weekly Numbers Keys lost/found....................8 ID cards lost/found...............11 Cellphones found..................3 Unsecured bikes found.........13 False fire alarms.....................4 Remember 1. If you see something, say something. 2. Safety is everyones business. 3. Dial 911 for life threatening emergencies. 4. Non emergencies: Campus Safety (626) 815-3898. 5. Lock all doors and windows to your dorm, apartment and vehicle. 6. Keep all valuables secured and out of plain view. 7. At night, keep to well-lit areas. 8. Always be aware of your surroundings. 9. Utilize the trolleys, safety escorts or walk in groups. 10. Avoid places where you are vulnerable and there are no exits. 11. Avoid texting or talking on the phone while walking as you may be distracted. 12. Avoid walking and jogging alone. 13. Secure your bike with a recommended Krytonite U-Lock.

Friday, Sept. 27

Sabor Latino

Experience Latin culture with poetry, music, spoken word, song and dance hosted by the Latin American Student Association and APU Communiversity at 7 p.m. in UTCC.

Friday, Sept. 2729

High Sierra Family and Friends Weekend

Students and family members are welcome to travel to Bass Lake, Calif. to visit students currently studying at High Sierra.

Saturday, Sept. 28

Gospel Choir Performance

Admission is free to see the Gospel Choir perform at 6 p.m. in Munson Chapel on East Campus.

Students celebrated the new student section makeover at the football game on Saturday.

Hunter Foote PHOTO

Pieology to open across from campus

The pizza chain will join Yogurtland and Chick-fil-A just across the street to offer students a new off-campus dining option
Annie Z. Yu
editor-in-chief

The Den better watch out. Pizzeria chain Pieology is opening up right across the street from East Campus in the Yogurtland and Chick-fil-A squarejust a short jaywalk away for hungry students who complain of long lines and waits at the Den. There are mainly fast food [and] burger offerings so we thought custom pizza would be ideally complementary, Pieologys Mark Wong said in an email. Many customers who are familiar with us have affectionately titled Pieology the Chipotle of Pizza or Subway of Pizza. With an anticipated grand opening Monday, Oct. 28, Pieology, which is known for its fast, buildyour-own-pizza options, will be hosting a pre-grand opening free pizza day. Specific details will be released as the opening date approaches. Planning for the Azusa store started in April and construction in July.

Wong said he hopes the store will become an integral part of the Azusa and APU communities by hosting fundraising events and supporting various nonprofit organizations both on and off campus. And of course, he hopes to appeal to students from his prime, right-next-to-campus location. Its a college town with hungry students whom we aim to make happy, he wrote. Weve learned from Pieology Fullerton (which is two blocks from Cal State Fullerton) that students eat pizzaand lots of it! College students also have a much more discerning palette and love to customize their own pizzas to their particular liking. Den manager Paul Grether said he is not worried about potential competition. Im kind of excited that they are opening up across the street, he said. It gives not only the students another option, another alternative to eat at, but also the general public. Students interested in applying for employment can visit the companys website at www.pieology.com.

Come late October, students will have a build-your-own-pizza option across the street from East Campus.

Kimberly Smith COURTESY

RETRACTION
From the Sept. 18 issue The front page graphic incorrectly implied that 58 percent of the freshman class is non-white. The graphic referred to APUs .58 out of 1 diversity score from U.S. News & World Report. The graphic on page 5 referred to diversity rankings from 2012-2013, not 2013-2014.

Clause
News Staff editor-in-chief annie z. yu news editor megan sanders lifestyle editor rebecca kay opinion editor katie richcreek sports editor steven mercado design/photo editor kayla landrum asst. news editor hunter foote copy editors alec bleher and kimberly citron business manager erin lee staff writers katie brown, jamie garcia, jeena gould, jeremiah hill, scott jacob, bianca ontiveros, taylor schablaske, allison thompson staff photographer joseph camera FACULTY ADVISER kyle huckins

mailing address p.o. box 9521-5165, azusa, ca 91702 phone 626-815-6000, ext. 3514 fax 626-815-2045 website www.theclause.org email editorinchief@theclause.org
The Clause is a student newspaper dedicated to providing a realistic, journalistic educational experience for students of Azusa Pacific University; to seeking truth and reporting it boldly, fairly and accurately; to enhancing the university community by providing a student voice imbued with truth, responsibility and accountability. The newspaper is published weekly, except during examinations and vacation periods, by the students of the Department of Communication Studies at Azusa Pacific University. The newsroom is located on Cougar Walk in between the cafeteria and Cougars Den. The views expressed in all letters to the editor and all signed opinion articles are those of their authors, not the staff or university. Letters to the Editor Please include a phone number for verification of all letters to the editor. Anonymous and unverified letters to the editor will not be printed. The Clause reserves the right to edit the letters for length and journalistic style. The opinions expressed in this newspaper do not necessarily reflect the views of the faculty, staff or administration of Azusa Pacific University. Find us on facebook facebook.com/apuclause Follow us on Twitter and Instagram @apuclause

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Clause

Wednesday, Sept. 25, 2013

APU expands new study abroad opportunities

Communication Studies partners with Christian nonprofit to send students to New Zealand
Jeena Gould
staff writer

Ecuador study abroad semester recieved first wave of APU students this fall

For the first time ever, Azusa Pacific is introducing a summer study abroad option for communication studies and journalism students in New Zealand through a partnership with Christian nonprofit HCJB Global. From May 16 to June 6, students will explore Auckland, among other destinations, through the partnership with HCJBs Wandering Sheep Productions. Students will be able to learn about different modes of communication like television and radio. [We are] an evangelistic outreach of HCJB Global NZ that seeks to engage our generation through entertaining and thought-provoking content, Wandering Sheep Productions states in its mission statement. This organization holds an emphasis on using the gospel to create interactive and relationship based tools and to grow in committed Christian Sanchez GRAPHIC followers of Christ. Communication studies and journalism I feel really excited that we found an orstudents can study in New Zealand. ganization to partner with who shares the same values [as APU], Program Director Wendi Dykes said. Students [will] see where having a tance before the end of the fall term; however, Christian worldview coupled with excellence in only 12 students can go on the trip. Were looking for [students] who really academics can take them. The program will include two weeks of want to grow, not only personally, but profesintensive classes in Azusa before traveling to sionally, Dykes said. We want the highest New Zealand.There are three options of classes caliber of student to go to a program like this. In addition to the professional insight that students can choose from: Organizational Communication, Public Relations and/or Media gained through this program, students are given the opportunity to learn New Zealands Law and Ethics. Students can take up to six units for $328 Kiwi culture. Christian families in New Zealand have per unit. Each class fulfills upper-division elective requirements for journalism and communi- partnered with HCJB Global to provide home stays during the students time cation studies majors. down under. I think its fantastic that The neat opportunity with they finally have a program Were looking for this is that students will really where journalism majors [students] who really get to be immersed in the Kiwi can go study abroad and not culture, Dykes said. The stube behind on their units, want to grow, not will actually be able to live sophomore journalism major only personally, but dent in a Kiwi home and see what Sydney Potter said. This is its like to live in that environreally something that caters professionally. ment. Thats a really neat comto a lot of us. ponent to the program. Professors Ryan Wendi Dykes Students will have the Hartwig, Wendi Dykes and Brooke Van Dam will accompany students to opportunity to earn 30 Ministry and Service New Zealand to teach the courses and guide the credits by working with and helping the organization. students through the program. Because the program is so new, the main What draws me [to the program] is knowing that some of the faculty that are going to be concern lies in figuring out travel logistics. on the trip are professors that Ive already had, However, both faculty and students are posiso Im going to get to learn more from them out- tive about this new opportunity. With any new program, theres always side of the usual class setting, Potter said. Its really the best of both worlds with great faculty growing pains, Dykes said. I know that the Lord is in this program, and he has orchestratin such an amazing place. Students have until Nov. 1 to apply through ed the right people and the right connections. The total cost of the trip is $4,150, which the Center of Global Learning and Engagement office. The application requires essay responses, includes airplane tickets, other transportation, reference forms, and at some point, a $300 de- housing, two meals per day and miscellaneous posit fee. Students will be notified of their accep- excursions around the country.

The students currently studying in Quito, Ecuador visited the Equator in their first few days of the semester.

Hannah Gonzalez COURTESY

Allison Thompson
staff writer

#claustagram

Off to ecuador

Name: Crystal Reed Instagram Name: @_crystallreedd Year: Sophomore Major: Liberal Studies Where the picture was taken: Her apartment in Bowles

Ziplining Quito

Name: Hannah Gonzalez Instagram Name: @hangonzzz Year: Sophomore Major: Computer Science Where the picture was taken: Quito, Ecuador

The Galapagos Islands, the Amazon jungle and a rich South American culture are now available to APU students with the Quito, Ecuador, semester abroad program. Students will experience life in a developing nation, improve their Spanish and engage in servicelearning and ministry. Partnered with Living and Learning International, APU students can complete generaleducation classes while gaining the priceless value of living in a developing country. The program includes a class that introduces the culture and history of Ecuador. Its one of the most interesting classes I have ever taken, said sophomore computer information systems major Hannah Gonzalez. Gonzalez is one of the nine APU students currently studying in Ecuador. She is beginning to treasure the opportunity to learn more about a drastically different culture. My favorite part is being immersed in this culture. We take so much for granted in America, and through being here, I have realized that I have so much to be thankful for, Gonzalez said. Students often experience culture shock when moving to another country for a semester. As many students find, the amount of luxury Americans enjoy is foreign to many around the world. Crystal Reed, a sophomore liberal studies major, is set to attend the program in the spring and said she is slightly nervous about the transition. It will be hard to be away from campus and the wonderful community of friends I have here, but I am confident that God has called me to go and it couldnt be more clear that this is where he wants me to be, Reed said. Reed said she was drawn by the opportunity to serve God in a drastically different part of the world. I applied within a week of hearing about it, and all the logistics of finances and classes offered quickly fell into place, Reed said. It has been so clear to me throughout the whole process of hearing about it, applying for it and being accepted that God wants me to be in Ecuador next semester. Because Christian families partner with the organization to provide home stays, students are able to experience Ecuadorian life firsthand. Sophomore Christian ministries major Tyler White will embark on the spring semester trip and said he is excited for his upcoming adventure. Ive been told how all of the home stay families have been screened, [so] Im not nervous [about] living with an Ecuadorian family, White said. If anything, Im more worried about being taken out by a jaguar in the Amazon, but as long as it doesnt kill me, that would be a crazy story to tell my grandkids one day.

The program in Ecuador offers students the opportunity to travel to the Amazon jungle to complete service projects. Students will also volunteer at a local organization or complete an internship with a partner ministry near or in Quito, the capital. Ive worked at churches in America, but I believe being a part of a congregation in another country will lead to some extreme growth, White said. Living and Learning International aims to spread the gospel in Ecuador by challenging students both academically and spiritually. We spent a lot of time getting to know the staff of Living and Learning to make sure [we] are like-minded on critical issues, polices and philosophy of learning and service, said Matt Browning, Azusa Pacifics associate vice president of internationalization. We worked hard [to] make sure the elements of the program and the staff and faculty that are there are of the character and quality that APU students should expect. Living and Learnings website states that students will be asked to consider how they can use their gifts and talents to reach the world with the good news of Jesus Christ. By attending Spanish classes every day and being immersed in Quito, students can become completely bilingual after their semester abroad. Gonzalez is currently taking eight units of Spanish. My Spanish class is in downtown Quito, and I have visited Old Quito, which is so beautiful, Gonzalez said. The popular travel destination is located between two mountain ranges and was founded on the site of an ancient Inca city. The capital is also designated a World Heritage city by the U.N.s Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization in their Word Heritage Cities Program, which assists governments and states in improveing and managing their urban heritage. It [Quito] is 10,000 feet in the Andes mountains. [There are] volcanoes to hike, [you can] stand on the equator, spend a week in the rain forest doing ministry and service, spend a week on the Galapagos Islands, and so much more, Browning said. It is a rich culture and I know students can learn a lot. Living and Learning started in 2006 and partners with 15 different universities, including APU, to offer study abroad programs in Ecuador, South Africa and Uganda. Gonzalez said the program is going through transition. For example, she mentioned this is the first semester Living and Learning has incorporated online classes. She is taking her Spanish and Ecuador culture classes in Quito while taking Luke/Acts and philosophy classes online. Because this is a new program, applications for the spring semester has been extended from Aug. 1 to Oct. 1, according to Kelly Grenfell, the program coordinator of the Center for Global Learning and Engagement.

Helping You Help Others

Earn your masters degree in Clinical Psychology, Counseling, or Social Work from Azusa Pacific.
Everywhere you look you see broken, hurting peoplemen, women, children, couples, and families struggling with diverse issues. If youre considering a career dedicated to improving the lives of others, Azusa Pacifics graduate programs can help you take the next step. Our programs equip you with the advanced tools and experience youll need to make a difference.

Master of Arts in Education: Educational and Clinical Counseling

This program offers versatility, allowing candidates to pursue careers in both K12 school and clinical settings. Earn a highly marketable degree with an embedded school counseling credential and an efficient path toward meeting LPCC requirements.

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The MSW program equips you to help people manage and overcome some of lifes most difficult challenges, such as poverty, addiction, and abuse. Graduate from a program that prepares you to meet state requirements for licensure as a social worker.

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Clause

Wednesday, Sept. 25, 2013

Transgender theology prof set to leave APU

reading anyway." Maureen Taylor, executive director of strategic communication for APU, said Friday night that Ackley's teaching assignment is still a subject of discussion and negotiation. Junior psychology major Maria Rangel teared up in class at the news, and was still almost at a loss for words after class ended. "Her classroom was like the safest place to be. From the beginning she was telling us this is a safe place, even if you don't have fully formulated thoughts, if you want to say something just say it," she said. "I'm so inspired by her strength and the image she gives off, which is pure love and grace. She's so strong in her faith." Junior nursing major Natasha Hanright said she heard about the news Thursday night but had hoped it was just a rumor. A former Buddhist, Hanright converted to Christianity at APU but became an atheist due to what she described as "hate" she received for her Buddhist background. "In that classroom [professor Clements] brought me so close to loving God again, as close as anyone could have ever had," Hanright said. "She accepted me. She made me want to love God." As the administration mulls over appropriate next steps, Daniels said although there have been recent shifts in the psychological community, there are still strong convictions regarding gender identity in the evangelical community and the transgender question is still largely uncharted theological territory. "I think in the right context Adam could serve as an important voice in helping bring some clarity into that conversation, helping the church have that conversation in ways that are maybe more robust and thoughtful," he said. Dr. Kimberly Denu, special adviser to the president and provost, has worked on diversity issues with Ackley and said this is an example of "living and learning together." "I think this is difficult stuff. Real life gets messy, but that's where the body of Christ rises to the occasion," Denu said. "This is a great opportunity for us to show love in action." Ackley will remain on contract through June 30, the end of the school year, but may be released from teaching duties. Until then, he hopes to be able to help his students' potential new professor pick up his classes, and he reminded his students that he will always be close by. "I want to continue to be as involved as you want me to be and as involved as this institution is going to let me be in your theological world," he told his students. On Monday, president Jon Wallace sent a campus-wide email that referenced thoughtful conversations with Ackley and avoided using pronouns, instead referring to him as a faculty member. [Ackleys employment status] remains an ongoing conversation and a confidential personnel matter, Wallace wrote. Ackleys access to Sakai was cut off Sunday evening but restored Tuesday morning, according to a student. As of Tuesday, Ackley was still teaching and told students he will continue to do so until further notice.

Students on campus respond

Supporters of Adam Ackley pass around a petition while others express support for administration
Annie Z. Yu
editor-in-chief

Adam Ackley embraces his student Maria Rangel Friday after class

Annie Z. Yu photo

Heather Ann Clements, also known as Heath Adam Ackley, described discussions with APU as honest, loving and gracious
Annie Z. Yu
editor-in-chief

After Azusa Pacific theology professor Dr. Heather Ann Clements came to terms with her identity as a transgender man this year, administrators are struggling to decide how to properly respond to what may be the first publicly transgender professor at APU. Clements now identifies as a man and goes by "Heath Adam Ackley" or "H. Adam Ackley" on social media profiles. On Thursday at approximately 6 p.m., he announced on his public Facebook profile that he had been fired because of his transgender identity: Fired as my university uncomfortable with my change in gender identity...too hard to navigate with their conservative donor & media base. Sober and free today though, Ackley posted. But as rumors spread, Ackley later decided to delete the status, and posted a new one that stressed a mutual agreement between himself and the administration that APU may not be the best fit for him. "I should have worded it more carefully. ... Usually when I'm doing my little check-in thing, I'm being brief. I wasn't going to say, 'Oh here's the last two weeks of dialogue and every single conversation I had let me give you a recap,'" Ackley said. "If I was going to err, I should have erred on the side of being too wordy like I usually do. But I was thinking about my family, and I just put it out there." After struggling with sexual identity his entire life, Ackley accepted his transgender identity this January after the American Psychiatric Association removed "gender identity disorder" from the list of mental illnesses in its manual, known as DSM-5. "You can't change someone's gender by giving them psychiatric medication. If they're born transgender, they're always going to be transgender," said Ackley, who spent more than 30 years battling depression and anxiety and taking psychiatric medication for her alleged mental illness. "APA has finally realized that ... so I was taken off all the psych meds at the beginning of this year. I was told I am sane, and that I am a guy I'm just a transgendered guy. And that's all I had to hear." His family and close friends now call him "Adam," and he is currently in the process of legally changing his name to "Heath Adam Ackley," dropping his married name "Clements"

and going back to his original initials and maiden name, H. A. Ackley. Last week, Ackley approached Dr. Teri Merrick, chairwoman of the Department of Theology and Philosophy, to inform her of his gender change. Ackley said Merrick, whom he described as a sister in Christ, asked him if he would like to dialogue more with colleagues about how to move forward with Clements' gender change. "And it made total sense. As soon as she said that, I said, thought, of course, of course I shouldn't just coldly treat this purely as an HR matter," Ackley said. "But neither have I wished to draw attention to myself. ... It's been very confusing to me. There really isn't a roadmap for how a transgender person does this, nor of course for how a Christian community does this. We're trying to deal with this in Christ and not just as an HR issue." Ackley said Dr. Mark Stanton, the university provost and a clinical psychologist, has affirmed Ackley's transgender identity, so Ackley does not feel any "quibble" about his gender. "But [my transition] triggers the issues of gender and sexuality about which this community and especially its wider constituents are confused," Ackley said. "We're trying to put boundaries around it so people can learn. This is a learning environment, not a political one. ... I think the university is trying to help you have a learning environment as free from distractions as possible." Dr. Scott Daniels, dean of the School of Theology and a pastor in a "fairly conservative denomination," Dr. Adam Ackley pointed out that the question of transgender people in leadership is "still in conversation" among both independent and APUconnected communities and denominations. "The big challenge has been the classroom, but all the other things seem to have fallen into place in ways that have felt honest and loving and gracious," Daniels said. Ackley affirmed Daniels' statement and said the main thing now is to proceed in a way that "minimizes student suffering." And although he is in agreement with the administration, Ackley does not think that suddenly leaving is the wisest and best way to serve his students. When Ackley relayed the news to some of his students Friday morning, many were shocked. Some thanked him for his honesty. Some asked for more details. Some cried. "I don't know if I will be permitted to come back Monday," Ackley told his students. "If I do, we'll stay on track. If I don't, keep up with your

There really isnt a roadmap for how a transgender person does this.

This is an updated version of the story that was posted online Friday.

After the news came out over Facebook last Thursday that Dr. Heather Ann Clements, also known as Heath Adam Ackley, had agreed to Annie Z. Yu photo leave his teaching position as a theolSophomore social work major ogy professor due to his transgender Nicole Ennes spends a few identity, some students began showing minutes on Monday reading the profiles of LGBTQ students. support for him with #wesupportadam and #westandwithadam hashtags. On Saturday, Haven Co-president Gods wrath toward those who pracAlyson Thatcher started a petition on tice such behavior, he said. As change.org to call for a change in APU Christians, we are called to clearly policy to create a safer environment and lovingly call sin for what it is. for transgender faculty and students. Portillo said he stands with APU The petition had more than 1,500 sig- in their decisions with handling Acknatures by Tuesday afternoon. leys situation. "We're hoping that by doing this, The sole reason why I, along by exposing us to the APU commu- with many others, attend a private nity who we really are, we'll create Christian university and pay the high a safer environment for other people dollars to do so is because it is called to respond by being true to who they to be set apart, he said. are as well," Thatcher said. "In many Ackley was still teaching his instances, freshmen end up leaving classes on Tuesday, and told students APU because they feel alone. We he will continue to do so until further want students to know that they're notice, according to various students not alone." in his classes. Haven is APU's unofficial GSA club. Haven leader and junior sociolMembers meet weekly at Thatcher's ogy major Margaret van der Bie said house, as they are not allowed to meet on Ackley, who she said often hosts Hacampus. ven students On Monat his house, day morning, walked her Haven posted through bibliprofiles of cal justifica19 students, tion of LGBTQ one alum and Christians. Ackley on the "He went "Door of Disthrough every cussion," right verse with me. next to the stuThat just gives dent post office me such peace on East Camand validation, pus. that like these Sophotwo things more social don't conflict," work major said van der Joshua Portillo, senior psychology Nicole Ennes Bie on being major spent several both lesbian minutes readand a practicing the profiles ing Christian. and said it was about time the stuMany evangelical denominations dents came out and talked about their teach the opposite, that biblical passituation. sages in Romans and 1 Corinthians, "At this university, it's a very among others, condemn practicing an touchy subject," she said. "Half these LGBTQ lifestyle. people are my friends. Van der Bie said they are asking However, other students think the APU to consider letting Ackley stay administration was acting appropriate- through the end of the semester. ly by asking Ackley to consider other "It's not fair to students and it's employment opportunities. One stu- not fair to the professors who have dent who wished to remain anonymous to take up his class. It's past the add/ said APU has a specific set of standards drop date," she said. that its faculty needs to uphold. Ackley's situation with the ad"It's a private institution that stu- ministration has received national dents are paying a lot of money to go attention, but freshman applied ex[to] because of that set of standards ercise science major Bill Fisher said and upholding those biblical views," students should not be involved in or said the sophomore communication so knowledgeable about a professor's studies major. "Just having someone personal life. that could even potentially contradict "That should be none of our busithose in any way would be wrong and ness, if she's changing her gender or shouldn't be an example." anything like that," he said. Senior psychology major Joshua Fisher also stated that he agreed Portillo noted that sadly, students with APU's decision to ask Ackley to who go against the main stream of leave. liberal thinking fear persecution. "Our APU community is based in As Christians, we are to speak Christian ideals that a man is a man out against the perversion of homo- and a woman is a woman," he said. sexual activity. The Bible is explicit "I believe they were in the right to do in its condemnation of it, as well as that."

The sole reason I ... attend a private Christian university and pay the high dollars to do so is because it is called to be set apart.

Lifestyle
APU students took the ride of a lifetime this summer to push for clean water Rebecca Kay
lifestyle editor

Biking for clean water: 6 men, 48 days and 3,000 mi.

Some people take summer vacations and some go to summer camp. But six Azusa Pacific students spent a month and a half biking across the nation to raise awareness for the need for clean water and to fundraise for nonprofit Charity:Water. The group included four seniors (psychology major Andrew Earle, business management majors Jordan Williams, Dan Eckman and Alex Piering) and two recent graduates (psychology alumni Brian Terada and business marketing alumni Chase Pritchett). The team started the long journey from Seattle to New York City in May and had a goal of riding an average of 85 miles per day. It took the group 48 days to travel more than 3,000 miles. Forty of those days were spent riding, logging400 hours on the bike. We took each day in stride, picking a town that was around what we considered to be possible to reach, taking weather, elevation and wind into account, Eckman said. While we lacked time to sightsee, we soon realized that biking was the perfect [way] to see the country. Every beautiful landscape went past at just the right pace, allowing enough time to take it all in. We also would stop whenever the scenery was just too beautiful to ignore. The team made sleeping arrangements only a day or two ahead of the time members were to arrive in a certain city or state. Most of the time they relied on churches that were more than willing to leave their doors unlocked and let the students stay overnight. Most congregations provided the group with food as well. The ride was long and the journey tough, but with the support of family, friends and people they met along the way, the team was able to finish together.

The boys in Minnesota.

Andrew Earle courtesy

Andrew Earle courtesy

The boys at the start of their ride in Anacortes, WA

The idea for a cross-country bike ride started with Eckman when he was a sophomore. At first it just seemed like a fun adventure, and he later decided to study abroad instead. But the in fall of 2012, after Eckman spent six months in Africa, he was starting to save his funds for another trip back to Kenya when teammate Andrew Earle approached him further about the idea. I sort of blew off the idea because I was fully set on returning to Kenya. Through a series of events and nights spent thinking and praying, I began to get convicted about my plans to return to Africa, Eckman said. I was struck with tremendous grief at the idea of spending thousands of dollars to return to people that I loved without offering a tangible solution to their sufferings. The thought of returning under those circumstances suddenly felt unbearably selfish to me. I returned to Andrew soon after and offered up my idea:

a bike ride across the continent to bring clean water to thousands. And thus Ride for Water was born. After brainstorming and praying with the rest of the team and waiting for one team member to find a job, the men were able to start the process of making this idea into reality, even though none of them had previous extreme biking experience. Team members knew they wanted to partner with the nonprofit Charity:Water and had a goal of raising $40,000, which they exceeded. They knew they wanted to partner with this organization because of its transparency and 100 percent model, which means 100 percent of public donations go directly to the campaign to which one donates. Charity:Water sends final updates and reports on where a donors money goes and how funds impact the community once a well is put in place. Charity:Water is the worlds

largest provider for clean water and has helped underdeveloped countries with water, decreasing disease and death. We were able to bring clean water to over 2,000 people in Tigray, Ethiopia, Earle said. I want to encourage everyone to get involved with Charity:Water. It is easy to give up your birthday and accept donations for a water project instead of gifts. It is quite simple to set up a Charity:Water campaign, and I would love to see APU students more active in fighting this injustice. The team is still advocating for Charity:Water and accepting donations even though the bike ride is over. You can donate to Charity:Water and read more about the teams adventures at www.rideforwater.com. We rarely think of what a privilege it is to drink clean water that is not going to kill us or those in our community, Earle said. We must take action now and get in the habit of giving, so later in life when we have more resources and know others who have resources, we can give to those on the margins as Jesus did.

Michael Smith: Fulbright scholar shaping film program Chamber singers

Scott Jacob
staff writer

Cinematic arts professor Michael Smith recently returned from a year of teaching cinematic production and design in Jordan through the Red Sea Institute of Cinematic Arts, orchestrated through his alma mater, USC. I contacted the head of instruction, who was home from Jordan for the summer, Smith said. We discussed what I could contribute to the program what they were lacking. Thats how we came up with the plan for me to teach cinematic design. A desire to teach somewhere outside of the United States is not new to Smith. I knew I wanted to do a Fulbright. I knew I wanted to go overseas, Smith said. Its something I have been thinking about ever since I became a professor. After earning a Master of Fine Arts degree, spending years guiding students through the intricate process of film making in the States, and playing an instrumental role in the development of APUs department of Theater, Film and Television Department, Smith was ready for another challenge. Just getting out of the regular routine here at APU enabled me to think differently about how I teach, Smith said. Having to teach people who for many of them, English was a second language, caused me to look at cinematic design concepts in a different way. The experience has changed the way I teach the APU course as well. To those who are informed about the current conflicts in the Middle East, it is no surprise that the youth Smith interacted with have a strong desire to have their voices heard and their

Cinematics arts professor Michael Smith

Azusa Pacific University courtesy

stories told. The Middle East right now is going through the kind of social upheaval that the U.S. went through in the 1960s, Smith said. There was a lot of creativity that came out of the U.S. during the 60s and 70s. I think we will see the exact same thing over the next decade come out of the Middle East. During times of oppression, revolution and war, people historically have been pushed toward a creative outlet to express their opinions. This is exemplified in the protest songs of Bob Dylan, Joan Baez and Buffalo Springfield, as they decried the corrupt nature of the Vietnam War. The same creative rebellion against war is obvious in Kurt Vonneguts Slaughterhouse Five with regard to World War II, and the debilitating effects of the war in Afghanistan are portrayed in The Hurt Locker, an Oscar-winning film directed

by Kathryn Bigelow. Theres going to be a lot of interesting stories that are being told by young filmmakers that dont have anything to lose, Smith said. And if those stories can get out, people will be quite interested in what they see. Senior cinematic arts major Phillip Hall considers Smith a mentor and has had him for his Cinema and TV Production II and Cinema Aesthetics classes. He challenges you by asking, Why did you frame it this way? I always have to have an answer, which encourages me to build a case for my choices or reconsider them altogether, Hall said. Now that hes back at APU, Smith has begun taking practical steps to increase the standards of the Bachelor of Fine Arts degree, pushing for a separate application in addition to the general forms filled out by freshmen hoping to be accepted into the university. Smith is really excited about returning from Jordan and being able to share with his students what he learned there. Michael is a blessing to our department, Hall said. He has been working really hard to raise the level of quality within APUs BFA degree and really make it mean something, give your achievement gravity in the industry, as well as be competitive with other schools. Overall, Smith wants his students to understand the immense power of a story. The art of cinema is a gift, and without an emphasis on well-crafted, intentional storytelling, many students will graduate with a vacant sense of creativity. Its unfortunate that the only thing that can get made now on a large scale is a comic book, Smith said. Do we really need another Batman movie?

win huge award in Austria

singers, from PG. 1

and will come, a number of opportunities and invitations that might not have been previously possible, Atwell said. The winning group is still absorbing the gravity of the feats abroad. Corey Mannoia, a senior communication studies major, sings bass for the Chamber Singers and admitted he didnt expect to place higher than fifth. Come on, a group of students from a small Christian university that no ones heard of, up against nine other, older, more experienced choirs from the countries that practically birthed choral music? Mannoia said. Im still pinching myself three months later. Often only regionally noticed and respected for its music program, APU now finds itself in new territory, being firmly cemented on the international map. The victory reaffirms the level of musicianship that we strive to create every time we walk into rehearsal, Tutungi said. The APU group has already begun building its repertoire for the coming year and the new prospects that lie ahead. Of course, the conquests abroad remain palpable, and well worth celebrating. To be able to say that youre the best in the world at something is huge, but to do it while worshipping God is just an unbelievable blessing, Mannoia said. All of the glory goes to God.

theClause.org/lifestyle

Clause

Wednesday, Sept. 25, 2013

Students take trips of a lifetime to spread Gods love to 19 countries

Missions, from PG. 1
going to benefit me for the rest of my life. I learned so much from it and have things that I can apply to my life later in my career. She said that the hardest part about being in a place with so much poverty was seeing the vastness of it all. You cant even think of a solution because its so crazy, she said. In India women often are looked down upon and are seen but not necessarily heard. It was hard to acclimate to that, De Wyn said. We had to be quiet when we were in public and not look men in the eye. Here in America, we are very much focused on equality and its not like that at all there. De Wyn said Christians often go on missions trips to have a life-changing experience, which she said is not the right mindset. Putting that all aside and going because God called you to be there makes you die to yourself and do it for him and not for yourself, making it a better experience overall, De Wyn said. De Wyn hopes to go back to India sometime in the next few years and said becasue of her experience this year her heart heart will always be there. Cambodia Senior liberal studies major Michaela Grocott went to Cambodia this summer. She went there as a junior and returned this year as a team leader, which she said was a very different and rewarding experience. The first time I was more worried about myself and the experience I got out of it, but then this time as a leader it was a lot different, Grocott said. I wasnt totally focusing on me and my experience, but I had to make sure -De Wyn everyone else got what they wanted out of the trip. This summer Grocott and her team worked at an international school, Eli School, which is run by Filipino missionaries. It was hard for Grocott to see the suffering around her and know

De Wyn and the rest of her team with children in India

Stephanie De Wyn courtesy

Grocott and her team in front of Angkor Wat

Michaela Grocott courtesy

Darmainian and her team at the Equator in Uganda

Leslie Darmainian courtesy

It was hard to acclimate to that, De Wyn said. We had to be quiet when were in public and not look men in the eye. Here in America, we are very much focused on equality and its not like that at all here.

there was not much that she could physically do to help right then and there. Grocott said her favorite part of the trip was getting to know all the people she met. I dont think I have ever met as faithful of people in the United States as I have met there. They are just good, kind-hearted people who are genuine and willing to help you, Grocott said. Those relationships will last forever. Uganda Senior psychology major Leslie Darmanian went to Uganda along with five other students and Woody Morwood and his family. Darmanian had never been out of the country before so she came into the trip not knowing what to expect. It was a really good overall experience,

and it was almost better coming in with an open mind and no expectations because I didnt have anything that I was hoping would be a certain way. I just let it happen, Darmanian said. It was hard for Darmanian and her team to see the struggles around them in the thirdworld country. She explained that it was a good reminder that poverty happens in America too, even though it is more prevalent in certain areas. It was hard, but cool to see the kids in the schools and how much they value the littlest things like pens and pencils; it was so sacred to them, Darmanian said. We got the opportunity to share pens with an art class, and it was really cool because we got to see them get so excited about something we take for granted. Darmanian takes joy in sharing about her experience in Uganda and about the African culture. For someone who has never gone on a missions trip before it was a great experience and I wish I had done it earlier, Darmanian said. These are just some of the many students who made a difference in the world this summer. They and CSA believe the world can never be too big and people can never be too small for Gods work to be done.

assistant news editor

Hunter Foote

Overview: themed housing

APU themed housing got a facelift this year. The special housing in Alosta Place where students can live among others with common interests now has two new houses: Leadership House and Student Action House, which replaced the Music and Arts House and Global Village House, respectively. Were constantly growing with what the student population is interested in and what works best, so it is a process of growing and improving each house accordingly, said Madison Lian, assistant resident director of themed housing. Lian, who is the assistant resident director over both the Leadership and Student Action Houses this year, explained that themed housing is unique in the way it functions. Often we throw around the buzzword community, and this is that in action, Lian said.

These are those really close-knit communities that are happening and people can invest in because you can do them year after year after year. Each house has a housing adviser, usually a returning member of the same housing the previous year and has previous experience being an RA. The HA acts as an RA would and is in charge of the community of students ranging from sophomores to seniors, in addition to meeting with a small group of students from the house that acts as a student leadership council. You have the draw of many different people in different walks of life, because as we know we all change dramatically throughout our years in undergrad. You have the enthusiasm of some and the wisdom of others coming together under common interests to fellowship and grow together, said Lian.

Sky Friends

Name: Evelyn Kenney Instagram Name: @eveskies Year: Senior Major: Business Management Where the picture was taken: At the cross on the Garcia Trail. Become a student reporter with just a click on your smartphone. Wherever you are and whatever time of day, you are able to snap a picture on your smartphone and upload it to Instagram with the hashtag of #claustagram. Tell us what is going on around campus. Your instagram may even be used in the next issue of The Clause.

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Opinion
Word to the Wise
I have been wrestling with the news of Dr. Adam Ackleys change in gender identity since it first broke Thursday night. My initial response was rough. How could a university founded on Christian ideals turn away their face from the higher calling that has been placed on us all to love one another? My conundrum is, what kind of example would it set to seek the relief of this professors duties? The duties that both this university and the Lord have called Ackley to serve for the past 15 years? If gender identity is no longer considered a mental illness, should Christians then consider it a spiritual illness? If an individual has accepted the identity of the other gender, then whether they choose to be celibate or marry and engage in sexual relations with an individual of the gender they once previously identified with, then, is there a sin committed? Who are we to deem another individuals sin any worse than our own? What would it look like to address the situation in love or as Jesus would? Is relieving the professor of the position setting them free? Or is it simply sending them to be free elsewhere? What does this say to students who struggle with similar situations? This is a tough situation, for everyone involved. Whether youre administration, Mr. Ackley, a fellow faculty member, a staff member, an undergrad, a female, a male, homosexual, straight, or transgender - we are all being confronted with this. This is uncharted territory. This has been placed before us all for a reason. This is only a small piece of a much larger puzzle that has yet to be resolved within the university and the Church. Homosexuality and questions of gender identity are fixed. It is not a choice. It is not something that one can confess and then move on from. There are sons and daughters of God that are born with homosexual and gender identity traits. Every human being on the face of this Earth has been saved by the grace of God who loves us unconditionally, and only wants for us to do the same. But what would that actually look like in this situation? Throughout scripture we are called to love God with all our heart, soul, and mind. And throughout scripture we are called to love thy neighbor as thyself. We are not called to love our neighbor only in certain circumstances, or when it suits us best. I would hope that whatever course of action is taken that it would reflect Christs unconditional love. Would relieving Dr. Ackley of his position at APU be a demonstration of that same unconditional love? Katie Richcreek is a sophomore journalism major and political science minor. She is the opinion editor of the Clause and sports producer of KAPU. She enjoys music by Johnny Cash and lives life vicariously through the film Casablanca.

Students Speak Transgender prof

Students express their opinion on schools approach to Dr. Adam Ackley
I disagree with the course of action that was taken because from my understanding it was taken from the standpoint that donors would withdraw their money if this person continued to teach at APU. One of the major reasons I disagree with that is because we basically made a decision based on money over a person who has been here for so long. I dont think we can do that with a God First logo on our school.
senior theology & biblical studies major Julianna Vasquez

sophomore communication studies major Annonymous

If they ask her to not return, I believe that would be the right decision for the school overall. I think that there is a set of standards that APU needs to uphold. Its a private institution that students are paying a lot of money to go because of that set of standards and upholding those Biblical views. Just having someone that could even potentially contradict those in any way would be wrong and shouldnt be an example.

I completely disagree with administrations decision to ask Adam to step down. As a university that claims to promote inclusitivty and love, it completely has disenfranchised that idea because rather theyve created an environment that instills terror within the very real LBGTQ community.

junior sociology major Casmiro Pea

Christians should celebrate Miss America winner

The crowning of Nina Davuluri is a positive step for diversity in the nation and Gods Kingdom
Bianca Ontiveros
staff writer

Write a letter to the editor

Please include a phone number for verification of all letters to the editor. Anonymous and unverified letters to the editor will not be printed. The Clause reserves the right to edit the letters for length and journalistic style. The opinions expressed in this newspaper do not necessarily reflect the views of the faculty, staff or administration of Azusa Pacific University. Letters should be 200 words or less and turned in by Sunday at 4 p.m. Please email your letters to opinion@theclause.org.

Twitter users across the country made their voices heard when they viciously attacked the first Indian-American Miss America pageant winner for her heritage after she won Sept. 16. If youre #MissAmerica you should have to be American, one tweet read. Others labeled winner Nina Davuluri a dot head, Arab, Muslim extremist and various ignorant names that were in no way accurate. But the fact that an Indian-American woman was crowned isnt simply a secular victory over racism. As a Christian university, we should be celebrating that the Miss America pageant, which started nearly a century ago, is evolving to represent more and more what the Kingdom of God should look like. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male nor female, for WE are all one in Christ Jesus, reads Galatians 3:28. Granted, not everyone may agree with my contextual use of this verse, but I believe it to be fitting. Davuluri responded to the hateful comments with the upmost grace in an interview with Fox & Friends. A lot of that stemmed from ignorance and that is why my platform is so timely right now. I am promoting the cause celebrating diversity through cultural competency, and its so relevant and Im so proud to have this amazing microphone to be able to speak about that, Davuluri said. According to the Miss America organizations website, the pageant began in 1921 and was intended to uphold the ideals of what it meant to be a great American woman. Miss America represents the highest ideals. She is a real combination of beauty, grace, and intelligence, artistic and refined. She is a type which the American Girl might well emulate, said Atlantic City Chamber of Commerce President Frederick Hickman more than 75 years ago. Davuluri is a perfect example of all of those

The crowning of Nina Davuluri sparked a series of racist tweets, most of which were inaccurate.

Twitter courtesy

ideals. As the United States evolves into a more diverse nation, it is only natural that eventually the Miss America pageant winners would likewise change. I have always viewed Miss America as the girl next door, but for me the girl next door is evolving as the diversity in America evolves, Davuluri said on Fox & Friends. Shes not who she was 10 years ago, and shes not going to be the same person come 10 years down the road. This small diversity achievement reminds one of 1983, when actress and singer Vanessa Williams got her start as the first African-American woman to be crowned Miss America. According to an article published by the Huffington Post, Williams also experienced hate mail and racist comments when she was crowned the first black Miss America. To know some things have yet to change 30 years later, especially when it comes to the

ignorance of ethnicity and race, is quite disappointing. All the more, it is thrilling to know that Miss America is able to rise above such hate and ignorance and use that for good. As an ethnically diverse woman myself, I think it is a huge success for Davuluri to have won the pageant. This is not only because she is breaking a stereotype of what it means to be Miss America, but also she is representing our nation with her ethnic background and educating people to the importance of diversity.

Bianca Ontiveros is a journalism major and global studies minor. Her nickname Binx has followed her from childhood into college. She has spent the last eight months abroad in South Africa and Guatemala. She loves old school hip-hop from the early 90s, salsa dancing, and cooking.

theClause.org/opinion

Discovering the truth behind the Strengths Finder and Beginnings

Jeremiah Hill
staff writer

Finally beginning to understand

Clause

wednesday, sept. 25, 2013

When I was assigned to write this newspaper article about strengths education in Beginnings, a required class for freshmen here at Azusa Pacific, I had my mind set to write a scathing critique. I couldnt have been more wrong. About two years ago, I was seated in the third or fourth row of Upper Turner, jostling elbows with my fellow Alphies. It was Strengths Day in Beginnings. This class embodied the freshman experience on campus perhaps better than any other. Students here and there slouched in their chairs, tapping their feet as if begging the clock to tick faster. Others, such as I, had quickly made friends within their Alpha groups. We were enjoying the eclectic Jars of Clay/Mumford soundtrack. My ears really perked up, however, when the strengths rhetoric began. I was learning how my strengths could help me be maximized as a person, for the kingdom of God. I looked down at my lap to a list of my top five strengths: Strategic, Connectedness, Individualization, Input, Relator. This sounds like a business seminar, I thought. I wasnt too far off-target. The strengths education included a video from Michael Buckingham, a partner of APU. In business circles, he is a preacher of success and maximization. Furthermore, the strengths program is based off careful research from Gallup, a business consulting company famous for its polling research methods. Immediately on guard about this seemingly secular program, I began to ask myself what might be implied by strengths education. Like many students I have spoken to in my time at APU, I saw it as a worldly desire for success seeping into the Christian environs of my university. Paul, after all, glorified God in his weaknesses. As I conversed with friends about the program, I found that I was not alone in my distrust. Several of my friends shared my concerns. Most were simply apathetic. Even professors poked fun and mocked the very idea of strengths education. Before long, I had mentally checked out of

As a part of the required course, Beginnings, freshmen take the Strengths Finder test which identifies their top five strengths through a series of questions.

Kayla Landrum photo

Beginnings altogether. This established a pattern, and I watched my strengths start to fray around the edges. Then, last semester, several of my friends embarked on study abroad experiences across the globe and I stayed behind. As a relator, I thrive on deep and meaningful relationships. All at once, it seemed, these had been stripped away. My feelings of confidence and sense of potential faltered. They were replaced by fear and selfloathing. My attempts at creating new relationships fell flat. My strengths had failed me, I thought. I certainly didnt feel maximized. I decided this whole thing was just another soapy program in a sea of evangelical bubbles. It was with these feelings that I sat down for an interview with Director Stacie Champine and Assistant Director Phil Brazell of the Office of Orientation and Transitions. These two are well-acquainted with the ins and outs of strengths education. We spoke at length about the benefits and possible pitfalls of the system. Whenever we talk about the strengths philosophy, theres always the disclaimer that this is not the beginning or the end of who you are, Brazell said. This is a tool, an aid in seeking the Lord and hearing your calling. As with many tools, the strengths exam taken by students cannot give

a perfect and complete image of an individual. We are complex beings constantly being tempted by simplicity. This was something that tempted me to dislike the strengths test. How many times have I heard students comparing strengths as if they suddenly know everything about each other? But Champine shared and voiced my concerns. I think there can be some cautionary measures in using strengths as an icebreaker, because when you do that, sometimes that just creates a label on somebody, versus being able to use that as a tool to go deeper, Champine said. It makes me wonder if there is room for improvement in the strengths program. I think it starts with the students themselves buying into what is being taught. In the rush of an insanely nourishing freshman year, however, many students never take the time to wrestle and learn from their strengths. Such was my own case. That was something that Brazell spoke to, referencing the shadow sides to strengths. As he talked about them, I began to notice them in myself. For example, as a relator, I thrive on deep and meaningful relationships. I also shut down without them. Understanding and seeing these things is what this program is all about. I cant help but wonder if I had taken the whole thing more seriously what my most recent semester might

have looked like. Acknowledging and seeing my strengths and weaknesses for what they were, I propose, would have made all the difference. Instead, I thought strengths education was too success-oriented, too secular to merit my attention. While Director Champine agreed with me that strengths training is not overtly Christian, she followed the thought with a good point: But thats just like, you know, algebra. I blinked. Perhaps God can use the worldly to form and transform his children. I was made from dust, after all. I have come to believe that strengths education at Azusa Pacific can be tremendously beneficial and informative. I would say that it deserves more attention from students. On the other hand, we need to avoid trivializing strengths and allowing them to become icebreaker fodder. We need to take them more seriously than that. Dont check out. We each need to take another look at the areas we can develop and the areas of our lives in which we need each other. Through strengths, some might find that they have found their true calling. Others, like Brazell, might find that they have a whole new calling in store. Brazell himself entered into this university as a biochemistry major and left with a degree in business administration and a minor in leadership studies.

He believes that strengths are about responsibility stewarding who you are and seeking Gods calling for your life. That is where it begins and ends. Jeremiah Hill is a senior English major. He enjoys cheesy 90s Christian music, rooting for baseball teams that arent from LA, and singing in the shower. He is undefeated in Texas HoldEm tourney play, but is temporarily retired because gambling is a no-no at APU. He is blessed with great friends.

The Clause is always looking for illustrations and strong opinion pieces. If youre interested, send an email to opinion@theclause.org.

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Sports
APU football strong safety balances school, football and ROTC
Katie Brown
staff writer

Nick Grunsky: Star student athlete and future soldier

Senior history major and football strong safety Nick Grunsky doesnt do anything half-heartedly. When he plays football he is a defensive threat, with 58 tackles last season. As a student, he earns national recognition through a prestigious scholarship nomination. After his time in the ROTC he will pursue a career in the military, where he hopes to serve his country as best he can. This is my dream, playing collegiate football, to eventually serve in the greatest army in the world, to go to school. Its all what Ive prayed for, its all that Ive dreamt of and its happened, Grunsky said. Grunsky is an accomplished scholar, athlete and future soldier who says he is grateful for all the opportunities he has had. However, APU was not his first choice. In fact, it was his last. Before graduating from Vista Del Lago High School in Folsom, Calif., he was looking into multiple other schools, but a family friend told him about APU and the chance to do ROTC as well as football. Grunsky, who originally planned on enlisting after high school, says the ROTC program made APU his choice. I have a great sense of pride in the U.S. If there were guys storming the beaches of Normandy in hostile situations for their country [such as in World War II], I can do the same for mine, he said. This respect for his country also led him to change his major from psychology to history during his junior year. After coaching his high school junior varsity football team, the strong safety decided that he wants to teach and coach at a high school after his time in the military. I want to be able to see kids do well, see high schoolers do well, and I want to be that mentor that can help them with that, Grunsky said. He chose history because he loves learning about the past, especially that of the U.S. The

Senior strong safety Nick Grunsky (#36) lives out his dream with school, football and ROTC. Grunsky works hard in all aspects of his life. switch in his major proved to be successful, as Grunsky recently received a nomination for the National Football Foundations National ScholarAthlete Award. According to the NFF, each NCAA school may nominate one player with a GPA of at least 3.2 for the award. The 1517 award recipients each receive $18,000 in post-graduate scholarships. Notable past honorees have included players such as Tim Tebow, Peyton Manning, Doug Flutie and Matt Barkley. To me its an award, and Im pumped to be nominated for it. Its a honor. No matter what, award or not, Im going to keep doing my thing every day and keep working hard in school, football and ROTC. The award is just something extra, Grunsky said. That work includes an hour of physical training with the ROTC in the morning, classes early in the morning and late at night and four hours of football every afternoon. You just make it happen. You stay up late doing homework, you wake up early doing homework, and try to balance that social life, and throw friends in there at some point, Grunsky said. Im happy to be doing it, no complaints as far as free time. I have plenty of free time because I make it. Ive got to create time to hang out with these people. Grunsky said that the busyness has not been easy, but that it is more than possible compared with the work his 18-year-old brother is doing at basic training for the Army in Fort Benning, Ga., and what other soldiers do around the world. Theyre constantly fighting, theyre embracing the suck over there. All I have to do is go to school, go to practice for a few hours and do PT for an hour in the morning. Once you realize little blessings like that, it makes it so much easier to do everything, Grunsky said. Whenever he can, Grunsky spends time with family and friends, whom he says are his support system. He also rests as much as possible. Im always at home knocked out. Just being at home and relaxing. I dont think about much, Grunsky said. However, despite the hard work, Grunsky calls it all a blessing and an opportunity. As far as football, Grunsky expressed confidence in the upcoming season, especially coming off a 3620 win against Dixie State in week two. We started out the season last year not so hot, but we finished great and I think that momentum is carrying into this season. We have the guys ... and the coaching staff to do it; were looking to make a run, Grunsky said. He said he has loved the game since he first started playing at nine years old. I just love the nature of the game, just the contact, the war-like mentality of it Its a great game, the best game in the world, Grunsky said. After graduating next spring, Grunsky will begin his career in the military as an Army officer. A busy man with many roles, he said he will never forget what is truly important living a life that matters.

Steven Mercado photo

LIGHTNING, from PG. 1

been doing for quite a while. In a sense, Im thankful. Theyre familiar with it and they understand that it needs to happen. The delays have specific time parameters that need to be followed. There is a 30-minute delay that commences directly after a lightning strike. If there is a strike any time during that delay, the 30 minutes start over from the point of the most recent strike. During lightning delays, soccer games must be over within a three-hour time span. If the game is not decided within those three hours, the game must be either restarted or postponed. Football games do not have a limit to the length of lightning delays. At Dixie State the lightning delay lasted for two hours, resulting in the Cougars staying in their locker room for the length of the pause. To prevent any injuries or obstacles with the condition of the players, the sports medicine staff tended to the team while waiting for the officials approval to jump back onto the field. Our sports medicine staff was keeping everyone hydrated, Reed said. We were giving them snacks like bananas and oranges because you have to think about their energy system, too. Its been so long since their pregame meal and we just added two hours, so we didnt want them to be left with no energy for the rest of the game. Coach and I went through letting them rest because if you [repeatedly] warm them up and shut them down, that would be exhausting as well. Victor Santa Cruz, head coach of the Cougars football team, was satisfied with the result of the delay. He said the sports medicine staff handled the situation with excellence

Watson moves up the ranks

On Saturday, Sept. 14, junior running back Terrell Watson reached the 2,000 yard mark in the win against Dixie State. After this Saturdays game against Humboldt State, Watson jumped up to the sixth spot of APU all-time rushers. Rushing
1. christian okoye (1984-86) 2. jack williams (1998-99)

yards TD
3,569 2,737 34 26 35 23 37 32 14 16 19 15

3. John van den Raadt (2008-11) 2,696 4. Marcus Slaten (1992-96) 5. Ben Buys (2002-04) 6. terrell watson (2011- ) 7. Rod Martin (1979-81) 8. Marcus Lampkin (2004-08) Flickr user Bruce Guenter Courtesy 9. Johnell Murphy (2010-11) 10. Elijah Raphael (1996-97) 2,548 2,516 2,285 2,236 2,040 1,898 1,840

When lightning strikes, the Sports Medicine department has their protocol and monitoring system ready. and the team had a blast while passing time. April does a great job of being able to keep up with whats happening with the lightning warning system on her phone, so we kind of knew what would happen, Santa Cruz said. We told the team the plan, we had some snacks there for them, one of the guys took over as DJ in the locker and was playing music, and we had a dance contest. Coach Riddle, our wide receivers coach, I think he won it. We had a lot of fun. A key piece of a teams success is the chemistry the players have with one another. The Cougars seem to have a great chemistry and enjoy each others company, to say the

least. Our team likes being with each other and that was just more time to be with each other, Santa Cruz said. It was evident that coming out of the break, our guys were fired up and excited to play football again, but being with each other, hanging out for a long time, for us, thats the fun stuff. We enjoy that. Whether there will be more lightning strikes in the future remains to be seen. But if there are, Reed and the sports medicine staff pledge to be on top of the situation, keeping the teams updated on the storm and what steps need to be taken.

UPCOMING HOME GAMES

THURSDAY, SEPT. 26 woMENS SOCCER VS. byuhawaii, 5 p.m. Womens volleyball vs. byuhawaii, 7 p.m. mens soccer vs. byu-hawaii, 7:30 p.m. SaturDAY, sept. 28 womens volleyball vs. dominican, 5 p.m. football vs. central washington, 6:30 p.m.

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theClause.org/sports

Clause

Wednesday, Sept. 25, 2013

12

Trenton Titus returns to action

Trenton Titus, one of the soccer teams best facilitators, is back on the pitch just in time for conference play
Taylor Schablaske
staff writer Height: 5-11 Weight: 160 Major: Applied Exercise Science Hometown: Chino HIlls, CA High School: Ayala HS
APU Sports Information Courtesy

Players receive weekly conference awards

Trenton Titus

After spending the majority of the 2012 season sidelined following surgery on a torn hip labrum as well as missing the first few weeks of the 2013 season with a sprained MCL, senior midfielder Trenton Titus finally returned to action on Monday, Sept. 9 against Hope International. Titus, who earned all-GSAC honors in 2011 and finished second with the Cougars with five assists, suffered a season-ending injury after just three matches last year. Opting for surgery on a hip that was progressively getting worse, Titus was able to retain his last season of eligibility while sitting out the season as a redshirt. Missing the whole season and having surgery was difficult physically and mentally, but I handled it pretty well and tried to stay positive, Titus said. Since Titus was a leader and top player of the team, the Cougars were forced to refocus their play without him. Trenton is very tough, and a great competitor. He handled the injury very well, but losing his quickness and his quickness of his passing were things that we had to adjust to without him, head coach Dave Blomquist said. With him in the game, we move the ball at a higher rate. According to Blomquist, the team had some difficulty working through the loss of its star player. It was tough without him, but we had

Senior midfielder Trenton Titus returns from a hip flexor injury to help lead his team this year.

I felt amazing coming into this season. I know we have work to do and Im ready to be more of a vocal leader and keep other guys accountable.
Trenton Titus

guys that stepped up and all did a little more. Guys like [midfielder] Steven Shiokari really played well and showed their leadership, Blomquist said. After nearly five months of recovery and rehab, the senior applied exercise science major was able to get back into soccer-specific workouts and prepare for the 2013 season. Titus said it took

eight months to feel 100 percent ready to go. Kyle Bueckert, freshman runner for Coming into this season, Titus has high mens cross country, was named PacWest hopes for a successful senior year for himRunner of the Week for his performance at self and the team, with the squad coming off the UC Riverside Invitational on Saturday, two consecutive playoff appearances. Sept. 14 I felt amazing coming into this season, Titus said. I know we have work to do and Terrell Watson, junior running back, Im ready to be more of a vocal leader and was named GNAC Offensive Player of the keep other guys accountable. Week for his performance against Dixie This season did not get off to the start State on Sept. 14 that Titus wanted. To add to the frustration Jamie Cacciatore, sophomore kicker, was of missing the majority of 2012 with an named GNAC Special Teams Player of the injury, Titus suffered a mild sprain, which Week forced him to miss the first three weeks. When it happened, I thought, Oh no, Mattie Shelford, sophomore outside hitnot again, Titus said. But again I just ter for volleyball, was named PacWest Player tried to stay positive and was able to work of the Week for her performances against San through it. Blomquist believes that Titus, finally Diego Christian and Fresno Pacific last week healthy and ready to go, can make an impact this season. Him coming back from surgery has been amazing, Blomquist said. The level of his game has returned to where he was prior, if not at a higher level. He is one of the best we ALL MAKES & MODELS have in this group and is play743 W. Route 66 (Between Grand & Barranca) , Glendora ing with a great mentality as well as being a team leader. (626) During the Sept. 14 game www.glendorapitstop.com against Concordia, he was able Mon.-Fri. 8 am 6 pm Sat. 8 am 12 noon to create a pair of nice scoring chances as well as get off an FREE Local Shuttle aggressive shot from the top of Se Habla Espaol the box that barely missed. Tires Brakes A/C Smog Repairs Titus proved he has Electrical Engines Check Engine Light Transmissions bounced back in the two games Brakes Oil, Lube & Filter Air Conditioning the mens soccer team played Service $ 99 $ 95 in northern California this past + Tax + Tax $ 99 Up to 5 qts. of 10w30 oil week, beating both Holy Names Front or Rear Pads Synthetic oil extra Oil disposal fee extra and the Academy of Art by 10. or Shoes Freon Extra

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