The Rampage Nov 2024

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students — come together openly as proud followers of Christ,” she said. Johnson agreed, noting that faculty’s participation in spiritual activities signals their commitment to the students’ spiritual health, further enhancing the community’s cohesion. Both Johnson and Frame acknowledged that pursuing spiritual growth can be challenging, particularly during difficult times. Frame shared her struggle with drifting away from faith when facing adversity. She suggested that faculty and staff can help by being more open about their own challenges and spiritual journeys. She cited several faculty members, including Dr. Kim Farmer, Professor Jessica Sykes, and ACE director Wayne Pelts as inspirations on her faith walk. “Their unwavering support and encouragement remind me of God’s goodness and have helped me navigate challenges,” Frame said. Breeden added that he believes that fostering a healthier campus community goes beyond just programs and initiatives. “Although the implementation of various programs could be positive,” Breeden said, “I think one way to ultimately heal and foster a healthier campus community would be a change in the heart posture of our campus towards spirituality.” The students also spoke about the challenge of setting examples and being spiritual leaders themselves on campus.

“The Lord is teaching me how to approach faculty, staff, and other students with patience, meekness, kindness, and love,” Breeden said. “There have been times where I have been very frustrated with various forms of leadership, including my own, but God is still leading me on a path that I believe is higher than what the world could offer.” Frame said her faith has profoundly influenced her approach to leadership. She believes that true leadership involves assisting others and demonstrating vulnerability. “Leading others has helped me make progress within myself,” she said. Johnson echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that his own faith serves as the foundation of his leadership style. His guiding principle: “Does it share the Gospel without compromise?” Austin said he strives to set an example or to be a spiritual leader on campus out of care for his fellow students. “I think the approach to leadership is a lot easier to understand for people when the leadership comes out of care and consideration for the other person,” Austin said. “When you show someone why you hold them to a certain standard, it not only brings you closer to them but also gives them knowledge.”

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