Northland to NI. . . .
Well, here are my thoughts regarding expansion of NBBC from college to Univ settings. My reservation lies in the area of identity. When a college calls itself a Baptist college, it immediately specify what it stands for (logically speaking). I’m not saying Northland is ditching its distinctive (I think one of the men in the Northland video interviews mention something in passing though not in direct reference to my point of concern that identity will not be lost). Personally I’d like to see it retain its Baptist identity despite changes. Undoubtedly, these men have spent much time musing and discussing the pros and cons of certain decisions and these aren’t easy decisions to make. Dr Ol’ has often said that the choices also determines the consequences or destination.
Another area of interest rather than concern is that of accreditation. As a college it has received accreditation status but this new aspect?
Anyway, I’ll be writing to Kevin Priest or Sam Horn about these and see what they will say. It’s still early days yet and I’m sure their email inboxes have been stuffed with queries (not to mention accusations etc)! It’d wouldn’t be prudent to jump to conclusion but be open-minded and process information as they trickle in….
Will enter my thoughts later. . .
I’ll trust that your interaction with Drs. Priest and Horn will answer your concerns. But if you would like to read a great post concerning the topic, I’d recommend Mark Brumbaugh’s: http://markandanneb.blogspot.com/2009/04/northland-international-university.html
Have a great day!
joshneighbors
April 23, 2009 at 10:30 pm
Hi Josh: You’re not by any chance related to Holly Neighbors are you?
I don’t know Mark Brumbaugh but I assumed he’s a Northland grad/alumnus like me though I suspect he’s way after I left in 97. I don’t appreciate his comt personally as it left me with the impression of a brash freshman making some remarks in the presence of a graduating senior (if you know what I mean). That’s the impression I have – at least initial.
I’m not a placard-carrying Baptist who hollered for keeping the name’s sake. I was there when Dr Horn came in; Priest was my speech teacher; Lamansky was new kid in town so to speak. Dr Ol is my hero; Dr Braithwaite was uninteresting in personality but convicting in his teaching.
I’m a Baptist by conviction not by tradition. The Lord led my wife and I to Central seminary in MN for MDiv and matriculated in Dallas seminary for postgrad but providentially led to return to my homeland. I’ve had Kevin Bauder as my sys prof; along with other good men at Central too. Not to mention Dr McLachlan as my pastor. So I’ve surrounded myself with good men to argue and talk theology and Baptist principles.
I’m proud to be a Northland grad/alumus but don’t appreciate Mark’s “who cares….” remark.
I’ve yet to write to Priest and Horn due to busyness in ministry. I’ll meet Tony Fox in June as he’s speaking at our church camp. Curt Lamansky might be here about that time too, so there’ll be plenty opportunity to clarify things.
Again,I’m not reacting to changes but cautious to change (which is prudent). Univ means nothing to me. Ministry does. I’m sure the good men at Northland will make time to answer my questions as they’ve always done so.
alvinjismyl
April 24, 2009 at 2:58 am
Hey Alvin – I’m the brother
…came in ‘98.
I think I know what you mean when you say freshman/senior – and I was just tossing you a link to a post that was also very “initial” in reaction to the announcement.
You certainly have investment in Northland and I’m excited that you’ll have the opportunity to interact with so many who are still connected with the school’s administration and faculty.
I agree with you that caution is good, and I’m pleased with how you are approaching the questions.
I look forward to following any future postings on this topic!
Take care,
~Josh
joshneighbors
April 25, 2009 at 12:54 am