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APU Life: Hank, throughout your tenure at Azusa Pacific, you have worked closely with the city of Azusa. Tell us about your relationship with the city. Hank: Early on I began to realize that universities and colleges typically have a key person who interacted with their community. Actually, we weren't even part of the city of Azusa then—we were part of Los Angeles county until 1983. The administration and Board of Trustees decided that since we were a part of the city, and used their name, that we ought to consider annexation. Throughout the annexation process we had an opportunity to develop a closer relationship with the people of the city. During the negotiations it became clear to me that it was important for the institution to be more involved with the city. By joining the chamber of commerce I had the opportunity to serve the business community. I became a member of the Rotary Club and enjoyed meeting key leaders in the city and the practical service aspect. So it became a bridge; when there were issues, I knew who to discuss matters with, ask questions of, and get input. APU Life: What does retirement have in store for you? What are you going to do? Hank: I'm part time starting in January. I haven't had a lot of time to think about it, but I'm looking forward to it. My time will probably include some traveling. I will continue to be very involved in the Free Methodist Church at the local and national levels. Cliff: I have no idea other than that I'm going to work part time for the university. I believe that if people who have worked hard all their lives suddenly quit, they die pretty quick because our systems are geared to being involved. I'm just looking forward to not being here everyday. My wife's going to teach a bit longer, but if she does that, I told her that I might travel a little, and I'll call her wherever I go. "Wish you were here!" The U.S. is pretty big, and I haven't seen much of it. |
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APU Life: What would you say to prospective students who asked why they should attend APU? Cliff: I'd tell them that going to APU will change their lives. The classroom experiences you have at Azusa Pacific are important, but all the things that take place—the live and learn concepts and the activities that you have a chance to take part in—will prepare you to be good citizens and stewards of the gifts God's given you. And if we can't say that, and don't make that difference in that young person's life, then they shouldn't spend $20,000 to come to school here. They should go to a state college where it costs far less. I think it's the interaction, the friends, and the relationships that are invaluable. Hank: At APU, you are given the freedom to grow. The faculty and staff encourage students to develop as Christians. I have two children who graduated from Azusa Pacific, and they have been well prepared for their assignments. My son, Brian, has a business degree and is a professional golfer, and my daughter, Suzanne, has an education degree and teaches in a Christian school. It's the practical education that you get at APU that prepares you to change the world for Christ. Share your Cliff and Hank memories online at: |
