Teria Horton Atwood-Smith ’76: Asheville, North Carolina
After reading this most recent Response issue, I was so struck by the change I saw and felt in this issue that, for the first time ever, I’m actually writing to you. I love the greater diversity of subjects, people, and focus. This issue also felt more meaningful and heart-centered than anything I have witnessed in prior issues. It acknowledges, reflects, and weaves together both the inner and outer holy wholeness of our lives beyond anything I’ve observed here before.
I am so grateful this community is stretching its wings to be more inclusive and meaningful to the greater world community. As I observe this greater becoming in your institution, it makes me appreciate the gift of having been able to attend this university more than ever before. Thank you to staff, teachers, management, board members, and beyond for your commitment to continued growth, both individually and collectively.
Susan Campbell ’88: Kalaheo, Hawaii
I attended SPU as an adult student at age 45 and my first class was Old Testament with Frank Spina. Some of the things he said caused me to re-evaluate the faith I’d grown up with while waiting for lightning to strike him. He was tough, fair, challenging, exacting, honest, and always fascinating. SPU is losing a good man, an excellent teacher, and a great friend. I wish him and his wife the very best in his retirement. For the sake of future students, I’m sorry to see him leave.
Christine Hedman O’Connell ’84: Mill Creek, Washington
I am a math teacher. Dr. Montzingo was my advisor, and I still put what he often said in class — “Math is not a spectator sport” — in my syllabus every year. I was blessed to have been influenced by him and his enjoyment of math and the God who created it!
John Vincent ’77: Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin
I view my SPC experience not as a stepping stone to a career but more as a time of transition where I asked real questions, unafraid, and learned how to learn for the rest of my life. Fortunately, there were folks like Loren (Wilkinson, who hosted the Casey Quarter during this time period) and his colleagues who responded honestly and admirably. That’s what made the difference for me at SPC.
I have always enjoyed the articles in Response and keeping up with the institution and my classmates, professors, and alumni.
