The Concept and Verse of the Year
The Spring Arbor University Concept serves as both a mission and creed for all of those that are associated with Spring Arbor University, whether it be faculty, staff, administration or students. The Verse of the Year is the scripture passage chosen annually to serve as a spiritual framework for guiding the SAU community.
Verse of the Year
The Verse of the Year for the 2010-11 academic year is Romans 12:1-2:
“Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God – this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is – his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
The Concept
“Spring Arbor University is a community of learners distinguished by our lifelong involvement in the study and application of the liberal arts, total commitment to Jesus Christ as the perspective for learning and critical participation in the contemporary world.”
About the Concept
In 1961, Spring Arbor University President, David L. McKenna, commissioned the drafting of the Spring Arbor Concept, which has since become the rallying cry that has informed the direction and purpose of Spring Arbor University.
As a Free Methodist-affiliated institution, Spring Arbor University was founded as an outgrowth of the Wesleyan movement in American Christianity. The Spring Arbor University Concept echoes many of the prominent themes in the Wesleyan tradition. Among American Christians, Wesleyans have been notable for their emphasis on faith as a lifelong discipline of devotion, self-assessment and spiritual growth.
Below, this simple, yet profound, message is described in greater detail as we explore the rationale behind these foundational statements.
Community of learners
Attaining knowledge is a continual process encouraged by Spring Arbor University. Everyone—not just students—should participate in learning opportunities. Study and training outside the classroom setting is a common part of life for University students, alumni, faculty and staff. Read about some of the advantages to being part of a community of learners.
Heritage
As a Free Methodist-affiliated institution, Spring Arbor University was founded as an outgrowth of the Wesleyan movement in American Christianity. The Spring Arbor University Concept echoes many of the prominent themes in the Wesleyan tradition. Among American Christians, Wesleyans have been notable for their emphasis on faith as a lifelong discipline of devotion, self-assessment and spiritual growth.
Perspective
In calling for a community of learners who are committed to Jesus Christ as the perspective for learning, the Concept presents faith as a dynamic, ongoing process of personal development, continually enriched by reflection upon the Gospel of Christ. Learning is understood as an enduring commitment to explore new ideas, to undertake new challenges and to lead lives of holiness and integrity. Christian teachings offer the vital perspective on the acquisition and application of knowledge, not a static orthodoxy but a vibrant inspiration.
Experience
The Concept also reflects the Wesleyan emphasis on application and experience, rather than simply on cognition and analysis. Experiential learning has long been a feature of the curriculum. At advanced levels, students may get hands-on experience in the University's sports labs, radio station and TV studio, or conduct chemistry research at major midwestern laboratories. Several disciplines challenge students to undertake practica or honors theses that keep them involved in the contemporary world.
Application
As it affirms the importance of participation in contemporary society, the Concept also stresses that applied learning needs to be anchored in the liberal arts. The general education requirements offer breadth and balance, acquainting students with the methodologies used by several disciplines to pursue knowledge. With an interdisciplinary core program, the general education curricula attempts to link learning to prior knowledge and experience; it also encourages students to think critically and creatively, and to communicate with precision and empathy.
Lifelong involvement in liberal arts
Lifelong involvement in the liberal arts is an important part of the University's Concept because it encourages people of all ages to stay involved in the learning process. When formal education ends, the learning process should not follow suit, but rather continue to prosper. People can also stay involved by participating in University functions.
Jesus Christ as the perspective for learning
At Spring Arbor University, total commitment to Jesus Christ reigns above all other obligations. Students, alumni, faculty and staff strive to know Him through their involvement in ministry opportunities and every facet of their lives. Because Jesus Christ is at the center of everything the University does, University affiliates are all part of a strong support system.
Critical participation in the contemporary world
Spring Arbor University sets several examples for critical participation in the contemporary world. From spring break missions trips across the United States and Mexico to cross cultural experiences across the world, the University encourages everyone to get involved with what is important around the globe.