WAU Colloquium 2023 Marks Milestone in Academic Journey, Emphasizes Core Values and Spiritual Integration
Takoma Park, Maryland — Washington Adventist University (WAU) celebrated a momentous milestone as it inaugurated its 120th Academic Year with the 2023 WAU Colloquium. Taking place immediately after the North American Division Mission Conference in Phoenix, AZ, the colloquium brought together members of the WAU community to deeply engage with vital priorities, aligning them with the institution’s core values and mission.
A colloquium, in its essence, provides a platform for a learning community to convene, fostering clarity and comprehension around pivotal priorities. WAU’s Colloquium is no exception, seeking to facilitate a collective endeavor to delineate actionable steps that ensure students’ vocational direction, timely degree completion, and successful career paths. This year’s event centered around the university’s prominent core value, “Integration of the Life and Teachings of Jesus Christ” – a cornerstone of the institution’s educational philosophy.
WAU President Dr. Weymouth Spence underscored the significance of the colloquium in establishing the tone for the academic year: “Our 2023 Colloquium holds a special place as it aligns with the commencement of our 120th Academic Year. This assembly not only reinforces our dedication to academic excellence but also underscores our commitment to nurturing spiritual growth and values-based education.” Emphasis was on preparing our students for the workplace and for eternity. “This is God’s university and we are workers for God. This is why it is called Christian education: The principles of Christian axiology are derived from the Bible, which in its ultimate sense is a revelation of the character and values of God.”
Beyond the core value of spiritual integration, the colloquium showcased the relevance of the Spirit of Prophecy, a guiding principle entrusted to Ellen G. White. This emphasis on spiritual insights and wisdom interwoven with modern education underscores WAU’s dedication to 21st-century Christian Higher Education that surpasses classroom learning and extends into a life of service.
The event celebrated the distinct advantage of being situated in the nation’s capital, affording students unique opportunities for immersive learning experiences. From civic engagement to cultural exposure, students are equipped to become global citizens who comprehend the intersection of faith, education and societal impact.
Provost Dr. Cheryl Kisunzu, emphasized the broader vision: “The 2023 Colloquium underscores our aspiration to nurture capable moral leaders who can enact positive change in our world. We desire for our students to not only excel academically but also lead lives of purpose and empathy, enriching society in ways that are both innovative and awe-inspiring.”
The 2023 WAU Colloquium signifies a pivotal juncture in the university’s journey, reiterating its commitment to values-based education, comprehensive development, and service-oriented leadership. As the institution embarks on its 120th Academic Year, it stands ready to empower its students to become transformative agents in an ever-evolving world.
President Spence also accentuated, “During the annual university colloquium, a gathering of all university employees, I intentionally solicited a response from our staff to the following question: What compelling narratives should we craft to define Washington Adventist University’s dedication to embodying Christian higher education, thereby radiating a beacon of truth to students and the world?”
He continued, “The overwhelming responses were aligned with our core value of emulating the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. The centrality of Jesus’ love and other attributes is what our employees have embraced and are devoted to exemplifying. With a clear understanding that the principles of Christian axiology are rooted in the Bible, which fundamentally reveals the character and values of God, our learning community is resolute in allowing the brilliance of Jesus to illuminate before others, that our students and the world may witness our virtuous actions and glorify our Heavenly Father. More than ever, our focal point will be on prioritizing God’s presence on our campus. We trust that God will guide us!”