Transforming Excellence
“Azusa Pacific University (APU) thrives on academics that transform rather than inform,” says Michael Whyte, Ph.D., provost. In that, APU has made a conscious effort to hire faculty members that desire to and are capable of doing just that – transforming their students. With a goal of educating the whole person, however, APU faculty wish to better their students not just academically, but also spiritually. As an evangelical Christian community, APU charges its teachers with the responsibility of infusing God first within curricula.
Fostering an environment of academic freedom and growth, APU is notable for three of its priorities: comprehensive faith integration, commitment to diversity, and intentional internationalization. At APU, the faculty uphold these university priorities as their own. “Azusa Pacific University faculty seek ways to combine their faith with their disciplinary expertise. The result is a classroom that is permeated by dynamic faith integration,” says Diane Guido, assistant provost. While seeking faculty who model excellence in their disciplines, APU also seeks faculty who have a clear and compelling understanding of their faith and Christian commitment. With such high expectations of its faculty, APU anticipates continued opportunities for faith integration into course teachings.
With a 14:1 student to faculty ratio, APU students benefit from frequent opportunities to develop close relationships with their mentor-professors. A total of 488 full-time faculty on campus allows students access to many one-on-one opportunities with professors both in and out of the classroom. Of the faculty, 86 percent have doctorates or other terminal degrees. “Among our faculty are Fulbright scholars; those who have published books, articles, reviews, and other scholarly works; those who present regularly at local, national and international conferences; and those who share their research opportunities with students through mentorship within our growing undergraduate research programs,” Guido says.
For profiles of specific faculty members, visit their respective department/school homepages at www.apu.edu and follow the “Meet the Faculty” links.
Posted: October 4, 2006