WAU Provost Dr. Cheryl Kisunzu Calls Campus to Faith and Expectation at Spring Open Convocation

TAKOMA PARK, Md. — Washington Adventist University opened the Spring 2026 semester with a campuswide convocation grounded in faith, renewal and purposeful leadership, centered on 2 Chronicles 16:9, which affirms that “the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him.”

University President Dr. Weymouth Spence welcomed students, faculty and staff into the new calendar year and spring semester, offering words of encouragement amid uncertainty and transition. He greeted new students and employees while thanking returning members of the campus community for their resilience and faithfulness to WAU’s Christ-centered mission.

“This moment represents both continuity and renewal,” Spence said, noting the excitement surrounding the Class of 2026 as seniors enter their final semester. He emphasized that Washington Adventist University remains steadfast in its mission to educate, inspire and prepare individuals for service and leadership, reminding attendees that each member of the community plays a vital role in fulfilling that mission.

Spence acknowledged the realities facing students and employees at both national and personal levels, pointing to faith as the university’s anchor.

“These are challenging times,” he said. “Yet as a faith-based institution, we are anchored in a greater truth — God is faithful, and his promises endure.”

The keynote message was delivered by Provost Dr. Cheryl Harris Kisunzu, who framed her address around 2 Chronicles 16:9 as a call to wholehearted commitment. She challenged the campus community to live with integrity, gratitude and spiritual readiness, reminding attendees that God actively seeks individuals and institutions through whom He can demonstrate strength.

Student leadership also played a central role in the convocation. Student Association President Zachary Lowe welcomed students back to campus and emphasized the importance of community, involvement and mutual support.

“WAU is more than a campus — it’s a family,” Lowe said, encouraging students, particularly new arrivals, to get involved, build relationships and avoid navigating college alone.

Lowe addressed seniors directly, acknowledging the excitement and pressure of approaching graduation and future decisions related to careers, internships and graduate study. He urged students to take small, consistent steps toward success, rely on their support systems and trust God’s guidance.

Dr. Kisunzu reflected on the stewardship of time — the 525,600 minutes in a year — urging students to use each moment intentionally. Biblical examples highlighted gratitude, preparedness and spiritual discipline as qualities of those God strengthens, reinforcing the message of 2 Chronicles 16:9.

The convocation concluded with a campuswide prayer by the Columbia Union Conference Treasurer Emmanuel Asiedu, committing the faculty, staff, trustees, alumni and students to God’s care. A closing benediction asked for wisdom, health and peace as the campus moves forward together into Spring 2026.

As Washington Adventist University continues to advance its mission of faith and learning, prospective students are invited to explore WAU and consider joining a purpose-driven academic community where leadership is cultivated, faith is strengthened and lives are transformed.