The Rampage Nov 2024

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The Rampage

Stories

Student Leaders Express Desire to Grow in Faith Alongside Faculty and Staff by Abby Gasperson | Graphic Communication, Digital Marketing • 2025 A t Bluefield University, student leaders are expressing a strong desire to deepen their spiritual journeys in partnership with faculty and Dr. Clary shares this perspective on the importance of attending student ministry events, particularly BU’s weekly chapel service. While he acknowledged that the chapel experience is primarily tailored for students, he emphasized its significance in a Christian university context.

staff as part of a cohesive community where growing faith is a shared experience, integral to the campus culture. Dr. Henry Clary, assistant professor of Christian studies, acknowledged the significant role faculty and staff play in supporting students in their spiritual growth. “First, we can pray for our student body and student leaders to grow in wisdom and leadership skills,” Dr. Clary said. “Second, we can choose to intentionally mentor student leaders in our areas of expertise. For example, I have experience in missions and practical ministry, so I sponsor the Missions Club.” Both Chris Johnson, dean of students, and student ministries leader Courtney Frame spoke about the importance of faculty presence at student-led faith events. Frame noted that the lack of attendance from faculty can be disappointing and discouraging. “We would like the adults and academic leaders on campus to step up and attend events in support of what we voluntarily offer,” Frame said. Student Government Association president Landon Breeden shared how faculty and staff can help students with personal challenges as a believer and a college student, noting his challenges with prioritization, time management, and learning to juggle various responsibilities. “The faculty and staff have done an excellent job in helping me and being patient with me on this journey,” Breeden said. “A level of understanding and patience from both sides is critical.” He echoed the desire of his fellow student ministry leaders to see faculty and staff more present at various events. “It would thrill my heart to see them grow in their presence at sporting events, student engagement events, and student ministry events,” Breeden said. “Although I don’t think it’s necessary for them to be at every event, I desire to see their presence — excited, passionate, and glad to participate in our campus community.”

“I attend for spiritual growth and to support the mission of BU,” Dr. Clary said. “In a word — yes, I think it should be required for faculty and staff to attend chapel services.” Student leader Will Austin agreed, sharing how he appreciates the connection that comes from attending faith-based gatherings with faculty and how he envisions a more united campus community, bound by strong relationships. “For me personally, it (attending faith-based gatherings with faculty) allows me to get to know someone better and makes me more comfortable around them,” Austin said. “I think a tighter knit community would be a great thing to see. I think my previous journey with Christ, as well as my hunger for a closer relationship with God, has pushed me to grow in faith, alongside faculty and staff.” Austin added that he believes faculty can further support students’ growth by including Bible verses in lessons. “This will help each student learn more about the word,” he noted. Johnson added that faculty and staff can play a key role in students’ spiritual growth by integrating spiritual conversations into their daily interactions with students. Beyond that, Frame said faculty and staff can demonstrate support of student leaders by helping with not only attendance at events, but also setup and advertising. This kind of collaboration, she noted, not only boosts student motivation, but also creates a cycle of encouragement that fosters deeper faith and community connection. Frame said she envisions a campus community bound by Christ where faculty share their testimonies. She believes that openness and vulnerability from faculty would earn them respect and inspire students. She also said she envisions a campus community that prioritizes spiritual growth alongside academics. “I would love to see everyone — faculty, staff, and