A Word from the Provost
Harness vision and action, and the potential for powerful impact defies limitations.
That realization inspired Azusa Pacific University faculty representatives
to rethink their roles and goals, and set for themselves an intentional path
that would lead this university into a new realm of excellence.
Nearly two years ago, through an evolving series of open-door meetings, committees, and collaborations, faculty from throughout the university began to tackle some weighty issues. What is our ultimate purpose here? Are we doing all we are called to do? Is the university unified and headed toward a single goal, and is it equipped to do so?
First, they took a critical look at themselves as scholars and mentors, as servants and disciples. They then turned their attention to the greater APU community, its physical and spiritual makeup, its ability to carry out its God-given mission. Using the university’s Four Cornerstones as the standards, they painstakingly evaluated the current status of and defined future goals for APU’s people, programs, and policies across disciplines. Their prayerful inquiries, openness, and diligence culminated in Azusa Pacific University’s Academic Vision 2016.
While this document contains overarching philosophies regarding the university’s identity and purpose, it refuses to be considered as mere ideology. It starts by clearly defining four essential areas — Transformational Scholarship, Faith Integration, God-honoring Diversity, and Intentional Internationalization — that, if properly cultivated, will keep the university on track with its founding principles while moving forward with intent and purpose. Beyond that, it outlines specific and measurable steps for putting the vision into action.
I believe the Academic Vision 2016 will establish Azusa Pacific as the forerunner in these vital areas of Christian education and serve as a model for other universities seeking to impact, inform, and encourage learning at a higher level. Our call to prepare generations of faithful leaders to live and work in an increasingly diverse and complex world demands focus, foresight, prayer, and accountability. The following pages illustrate our spiritual and practical response to that call. I invite you to explore the details of our plan and challenge you to join us in the continuous journey toward God-honoring excellence in higher education.
Michael M. Whyte, Ph.D.
Provost
