What's happening with the Jesus mural?

The alumni board met last week and several of our members have voiced concerns over the Jesus mural on the side of the Science Building. If you have been in the discussion (through the years!), there is a concern on the part of a number of students and alumni, that Christ on the mural is very much an Anglo. As we understand it, the model used by Kent Twitchel for the painting was a European Jew. Some alumni and students of color and others have felt like this does not represent the true Jesus and the mural should be removed.

If you have viewed it recently, it is in need of restoration as the last 15 years of weather have affected the painting and areas are beginning to fade and crack. Now is the time to determine if changes need to be made to the mural. The alumni office would love to get your comments and feedback. What do you think?

Is it representative of Biola? Is it purely an artists rendering? Should it be painted over or removed as it offends some who attend here?

Why do we ask the question? Well, we want to get your opinion as alumni and students of Biola. And, we want to make a recommendation on what action to take.

Thanks for all your opinions and suggestions!

Welcome New Alumni for Life!

During a very busy week of finals, graduation celebrations, and commencement, I hope that each of us are taking the time to celebrate the friendships we have made while at Biola. If I have noticed one thing while serving in the alumni position, it is the amazing network and friendships that are built while students are on this campus. Many of those relationships are built for a lifetime, as those that you meet now may well be some of your best friends for life.

As you finish up this week, remember to get addresses, e-mails and photos of all the friends you have made while here. It won’t be long until your five, ten and fifteen year reunions… and you are going to want to say “remember when!”

Congratulations to all of our graduates and welcome to Alumni for Life!

Ron Hafer Rocks my Socks!

For any of you who went to the Ron Hafer Chapel Monday, you saw first hand what an amazing guy Ron was as he told the parable of the prodigal son! A meaningful Bible story, told in an amazing way, from a classic Biola guy... I hope you remember Ron like I do from my student years as a counselor, advisor, teacher, preacher and friend. Thanks Ron for all you do for Biola...

And I have great news, Ron is going to continue to work at Biola in the role of Alumni Chaplain. We are taking Ron on the road to chapter events and activities, and he will be available to provide counsel and speaking resources to alumni who are interested in his service and involvement. He starts with the alumni office in July and we are excited to have him work with us!

Have a great week and.... Ron Hafer Rocks my Socks!

Rick