September 9, 2025
Academics
Simpson has seen some exciting new developments with the launch of new programs, including an Associate of Arts in General Studies, an Associate of Science in Health Science, and a Certificate in Applied Artificial Intelligence. The process of seeking Council of Social Work Education (CSWE) accreditation for the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program also continues as planned with the recent submission of the Benchmark 1 document. WASC has already granted approval for the university to offer the BSW degree. Dr. Deb Baker has provided important leadership for this accreditation process.
From our College and Schools
Betty M. Dean School of Nursing
The California Board of Registered Nursing has authorized an increase in the size of our Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) nursing cohort from 27 to 45 students each semester beginning fall 2025. This, along with grant funding to update and expand the capacity of the Nursing Simulation Lab, will enable the Betty M. Dean School of Nursing to eventually grow to a maximum of 225 nursing students. This expansion will also position the School of Nursing to support the addition of graduate nursing degrees and licensures. The administration will next focus on establishing the Master of Science in Nursing with a Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN-FNP) emphasis.
Aviation Program
With the help of external aviator consultants, a final version of the Bachelor of Science in Aviation program curriculum is nearing completion. The proposed program is for corporate aviation flight that will enable graduates the most versatile options for a piloting career. The university is actively pursuing $750k-$800k funding needed to start the program.
Doctoral Program at SU
A search is underway for a Director of the PsyD Program to assist with the development of the curriculum and the program proposal for the Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) program at Simpson University. The goal is to help meet the need for mental health therapists in the region by creating a doctoral program that builds upon the successful MA in Counseling Psychology program.
Band Director Search
The search for an inaugural band director continues. The search committee brought two finalists to campus over the 2024-25 academic year. Unfortunately, both of these processes resulted in failed searches. The position was recently re-advertised.
School of Education
New Education Partnership Opportunities – The School of Education is proud to announce two new agreements with Shasta County Office of Education (SCOE) that expand educational and professional development opportunities for local educators.
MA in Education Partnership – Students who complete SCOE’s Shasta Leadership Academy and earn the Preliminary Administrative Services Credential (PASC) are now eligible to pursue a Master of Arts in Education at Simpson University through a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).
Classified Employee Grant Program – Through a new articulation agreement with SCOE, Simpson University is now an eligible partner institution for the Classified Employee Grant Program. This program provides up to$4,320 in grant funding for classified employees in Shasta County schools to help them complete a bachelor’s degree and earn a teaching credential at Simpson University.
Literacy Accreditation – The School of Education is proud to announce it has received SB 488 Literacy Certification, recognizing alignment with California’s updated standards for literacy instruction and inclusive teaching. This certification highlights our integration of revised Teaching Performance Expectations (TPEs), which focus on equity, English language development, and dyslexia-informed strategies. The School of Education remains committed to preparing classroom-ready teachers equipped to support all students at every reading level.
Showcasing Books in Bookstore
Simpson University benefits from the work of many accomplished scholars whose work is now prominently displayed in The Bean Scene. This new permanent display proudly showcases the published books of Simpson University’s highly talented faculty, staff, and alumni. As a Christ-centered learning community dedicated to the integration of faith and learning, we believe all truth is God’s truth. The diverse scholarship and pursuits of truth presented here not only reflects these core commitments but also powerfully illustrates the exceptional academic quality and intellectual rigor embedded in a Simpson University education.
Ryan Brasher – New Faculty President
After several years of distinguished service from Professor Molly Rupert, the baton of Faculty President has been passed to Dr. Ryan Brasher. Dr. Brasher was unanimously affirmed by his faculty peers to serve in the role of Faculty President. This important position provides leadership to the full faculty and represents faculty perspectives to the President’s Cabinet and University Board of Trustees. Congratulations to Dr. Brasher on assuming this important role!
Operations
Business, Technology, and Engineering Building Update
Construction of the new Business, Technology, and Engineering building (BTEB) is progressing on schedule, with Phase One slated for completion by the end of September. Window installation began in early August, followed by the installation of rooftop heating and cooling units. Exterior stucco work is scheduled to start this month. Additionally, six electric vehicle (EV) charging stations are being installed as part of the overall building project.
Pheonix Charter Academy (PCA)
PCA has requested to remain at their temporary location for approximately two more years while they continue to develop their campus plans. This timeline aligns with the completion of the BTEB building project. We are pleased to support PCA as they continue to grow their campus.
Physical Plant Improvements
This summer, our Facilities team made many significant improvements to our campus.
Upcoming Projects
| Repair Clock Tower | Sound system in Humphries/Collord | Video wall in the Student Union | Water dispenser in Thompson Hall | Hood for open flame grill in Dining Center |
| Science and Nursing lab floors | Globe fountain Installation | Thompson door replacement & key doors | Repair and replace 50 chapel & 200 white chairs | Reseal and re-stripe the North parking lots |
| Select carpet replacement | Gower Pond Project | Residence Hall Deck Repair | Server room electrical upgrade | Tesla Power Wall |
| Dining center glass door replacement | Campus sidewalk repair | All building roof replacements | Dining center loading bay | Trash bins |
| New banners on poles | Paint the entryway to the main entrance of the gym | Rock landscaping around resident halls |
Athletics
Simpson University Repeats as a Five-Star Champions of Character Institution
For the second year in a row, Simpson University has been recognized as a Five-Star Champions of Character Institution, earning the highest “Gold” level distinction for its commitment to character training, sportsmanship, academic focus, and character promotion. In addition to this honor, Simpson also received the Cal Pac Sportsmanship Award for the second consecutive year. The Red Hawks’ athletic success continued with six teams advancing to the playoffs, four more competing in conference tournaments, and regular-season titles claimed by baseball, softball, and golf.
Fall Athletics are Underway
Cross Country team hosts season opener at West Valley High School…Read More
BAM Pro’s Teach at Trinity Lake…Read More
Red Hawks and the Beacons settle for 1-1 tie…Read More
Simpson splits in OUAZ tournament, picks up first win of the year against Haskell…Read More
Simpson Dance Team makes their unofficial debut at the JV home football game…See FB Photo Album
Bushnell edges Simpson in a 1-0 thriller…Read More
Financial Aid
The federal government recently passed major legislation that will significantly reshape student aid beginning in 2026. While some provisions protect student access, others, like new loan caps and program-level accountability, may impact enrollment, financial aid strategy, and institutional revenue. The chart below outlines the key changes and their potential impact on Simpson. (Only topics that greatly impact Simpson are listed.)
One Big Beautiful Bill – Law
Passed in July 2025, this law permanently changes federal student aid starting in 2026, adding new loan caps, ending Grad PLUS, and tightening Pell eligibility. These changes are now law and will directly affect Simpson students and families.
FY26 Appropriations – Budget
Congress is still deciding how much to fund these programs.
- The House proposal includes deep cuts to programs like TRIO and FSEOG.
- The Senate proposal keeps funding flat (no cuts, but no increases).
| Topic | Change | Potential Impact to Simpson |
| Grad PLUS Loan | Eliminates the Grad PLUS Program | $612,467 – $1,104,467 |
| Parent PLUS Loan | All parents may borrow $20,000 per year per dependent student with a $65,000 cap per dependent | $1,485,926 |
| Student Loan Proration | Requires institutions to prorate annual loan amounts in direct proportion to the percentage of enrollment status | $47,000 – $140,625 |
| Federal Pell Grant | Proposed change reduces Pell from $7395 to $5710 | $978,900 |
| Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) | Proposed to eliminate entirely | $75,260 |
| Federal Work-Study (FWS) | Cut by $250 million | $135,176 |
| TRIO | Proposed to eliminate entirely | $194,400 (salary impact) |
| Total | | $4,114,754 |
Final Takeaway
While the final bill avoided the most extreme proposals, we are still facing notable changes, particularly with new loan caps and accountability measures taking effect in 2026-2027. The immediate financial impact for 2025-2026 is expected to be neutral, but the following year could result in a $600k to $2.5M gap, depending on how many students are unable to secure alternative funding.
To Prepare, we are…
- Increasing focus on endowed scholarships and targeted fundraising
- Repositioning recruitment to reach students with a stronger financial fit
- Continuing to diversify revenue streams
- And of course…praying
Student Development & Missions
As our early-arrival student-athletes arrived on campus this August, many took part in new “Athletic Huddles”—small gatherings where they received a Bible and joined together nightly for Bible study and discipleship. These moments of connection, reflection, and truth sparked something powerful.
What began with four students expressing a desire to be baptized grew into something even greater. When the day arrived, not only did those four students step forward in faith, but twelve additional student-athletes also made the decision to be baptized, a total of 16 lives publicly declaring their commitment to Christ. We praise God for His movement on our campus and in the hearts of these young men and women.
Student Development is pleased to add new services for incoming students. This year, the Student Development team is assigning a Life Coach to all new freshmen to walk alongside them and help them through all the struggles of adjusting to collegiate life. Student Development will be purposefully praying for all new students weekly and reviewing their grades, advising, and tracking involvement in hopes of strengthening retention rates.
We are honored to have been awarded $1,300,000 in TRIO funds, which provides additional support for first-generation, low-income, and students with disabilities. TRIO staff help students with additional advising, career support, and financial counseling. Our Student Success team is also in the process of improving our advising support. We plan to connect with students in the goals of holistic advising, where we help students with vocational and career goals, spiritual development, relationship and physical/nutrition goals, as well as their academic goals. By being invested in all areas of students’ lives, we can help them grow into leaders who are prepared for world service.
Missions
This past year, Simpson University’s WorldSERVE program mobilized over 65 students and staff on mission trips across North America, Central and South America, Asia, and Europe, raising more than $150,000 to support their sending. For the first time, the program also endorsed and launched students into Envision internships, with five students serving in placements ranging from one to four months, some of whom are still actively in the field. In addition to these trips, the program was refined and strengthened to prepare students not just for a single experience, but for a lifetime of living on mission. The trainings equipped students to share their testimonies and the gospel while developing a deep understanding of the role of missions in the Christian life. Feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive, with many students sharing how these experiences have deepened their faith and ignited a desire to serve again. Most significantly, 10 students have expressed that they are now seriously considering long-term missions work after graduation. There is great encouragement in seeing what God is doing and excitement for the future of missions at Simpson.
Fall Enrollment
The 25-26 school year is shaping up to be a banner year from an enrollment perspective. On the Traditional Undergraduate front, both recruiting and retention numbers are showing a significant increase from previous years. We have 11 more returning students registered for the fall compared to last year and 70 more new students. Our TUG enrollment for the Fall semester is 81 more students than last year. The hard work of our enrollment counselors and coaches has resulted in a fantastic enrollment finish, which will nearly fill every room in our dorms. The Admissions team had a busy summer recruiting season, sending teams to the C&MA General Council in Columbus, Ohio, and to the C&MA Life Conference, where they interacted with almost 6,000 high school students
This summer, the Enrollment team hosted one of the largest Red Hawk Summer (see photo) events in recent history. Our staff hosted several hundred students, parents, and siblings on campus to experience the adventure that is Simpson University.
On the Adult and Graduate Studies front, the School of Education is outpacing last year. The addition of new agreements with the Shasta County Office of Education is driving the number of applicants to new heights. The Degree Completion Program is undergoing a complete retrofit regarding our marketing and recruiting efforts as we move forward. The stated goal is to double the size of the Degree Completion program by Fall of 2026.
Faculty & Staff
COO/COS Recruiting Update
FaithSearch Partners is assisting Simpson in the recruitment process for the Chief Operating Officer/Chief of Staff position, which will become available following Wally Quirk’s upcoming retirement. Bob Baker, representing FaithSearch Partners, has met with Dr. Hall, and the hiring committee has begun the first round of interviews with top finalists.
Faculty Accomplishments
Simpson University faculty are recognized as scholars and experts well beyond the bounds of campus. Here is just a short sampling of some of our faculty’s recent accomplishments:
Dr. Thomas Omwando was recently awarded the “Overall Best Paper in the Industrial Engineering Division” from the American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE). Dr. Omwando’s paper explored the topic “Assessing the Impact of the Use of Generative AI in Developing and Using Assessment Grading Rubrics for Engineering Courses.”
Dr. Cornelius Quek had his contributions to the Kingdom Life Bible published by the Thomas Nelson publishing company. Dr. Quek contributed to the Gospel of Mark, 1 & 2 Thessalonians, and 1 & 2 Peter in this new study Bible.
Dr. Ryan Brasher represented Simpson University at an international conference on Pakistan’s Afghan Repatriation Plan. The conference included leaders from at least five different countries and at least seven different universities, including Simpson.
Prof. Sarah Foulk was appointed the Team Captain for Redding’s new Sparta FC soccer team.
Prof. Sarah Foulk and Dr. Melanie Howard represented Simpson University as volunteers at the National Science Bowl. This experience prepares for Simpson becoming the host of the Far Nor Cal Science Bowl on February 28, 2026.
Dr. Melanie Howard . In April, Dr. Melanie A. Howard (Associate Provost and Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences) celebrated the publication of her first book, Twelve Biblical Characters: Trials and Triumphs. This book introduces twelve of the principal characters of the Old and New Testaments and helps readers to consider how the experiences of these characters can resonate with and illuminate the complexities of modern life. Daily entries contain a suggested Bible reading, a brief reflection, and questions to assist in exploring specific traits of the biblical character featured for the week. The book is available for purchase directly from the publisher, Paulist Press, and can be purchased at a discount using promo code HOWARD.
Faculty Training
Simpson is committed to providing ongoing training and professional development for faculty. This year, several important training sessions are planned, including topics on shared faculty governance (August 18), academic advising/vocational mentoring (October 9), universal design for learning (January 9), a session AI in teaching & learning (February 17), and integration of faith and learning (April 2).
Employee Advance
The annual Employee Advance was held on August 15, 2025. This was more than just a day away from the office — it was day where staff were encouraged to recharge, reconnect, and refocus together for the upcoming school year. Employees started the day off with a Prayer Walk around campus led by staff and faculty members. After a delicious breakfast, the staff worshiped together and heard an update from Dr. Hall. The Keynote speaker was Mitch Harrison, Founder of Refill Coaching. Later in the day, employees traveled to The Summit, in Whitmore, CA, for a beautiful afternoon in the woods with top-notch food, social and physical activities, connecting with each other, sharing, praying, and communion. The Employee Advance is a sacred day reserved for all employees to connect, grow, share, and be encouraged.
Staff Council
2025–2026 Staff Council Elected and Ready to Serve. Thank you to all who participated in the nomination and voting process, and congratulations to the individuals who have stepped into this important role of service and leadership. The Staff Council Leadership Committee members are committed to representing their areas, supporting staff engagement, and fostering a collaborative and Christ-centered workplace.
Staff Council Representatives:
Kristen Ambord, Staff Council President
Curley Wilson, Staff Council Vice-President
Garth George – Advancement
Milton Carrera – Athletics
Lucas Bishop – Business Services
Marjorie Kennedy – Enrollment Mgmt. & Marketing
Shelli Cline – Student
Seattle Tubbs – At Large
New Hires
Jason Deaver – Head Golf Coach
Coach Deaver golfed at Monterey Peninsula College before turning professional in 2023. Jason earned his Associate of Arts degree in Administration of Justice and Social Science. Outside of coaching, Jason is a passionate fly-fishing guide, avid hunter, and outdoorsman. He also enjoys surfing, snowboarding, and just about anything in God’s great outdoors.
Benjamin Omwando – Assistant Professor of Business & Data Science
Prior to joining academia, Dr. Omwando gained valuable industry experience working for renowned organizations such as Reckitt Benckiser East Africa, Telkom Kenya, and the U.S. Embassy in Kenya. He holds a Ph.D. in Information Studies from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, where he also served as an instructor for several years. Dr. Omwando’s research interests encompass information retrieval and visualization, information technology ethics, big data analytics, artificial intelligence, and predictive analytics in business, health care, and education. Passionate about student success, he emphasizes active learning and prepares students for careers in a data-driven world. He is dedicated to educating students and engaging the broader community on the ethical and societal implications of technological advancements.
Dr. Miguel Hilario – Director of International Relations
Dr. Hilario is a member of the Shipibo-Konibo indigenous nation of Peru. God took him to Oxford and Stanford Universities for his education, where he earned two MA degrees and a Ph.D. in Politics and Anthropology. He then went to work for international and government institutions, such as the United Nations, the Inter-American Development Bank, the government of Peru, and Santa Clara County, CA. Before coming to Simpson, Miguel was the Chief of International Relations at a university in Peru and Director of Programs at Alliance Redwoods in CA. As Director of International Relations, he aims to position Simpson University as a globally recognized institution that attracts top international students and professionals, fosters cross-cultural academic engagement, and contributes to global conversations through research and teaching on pressing societal issues.
Hank Dunn – Admissions Counselor
Hank is Simpson’s newest admissions counselor. He attended Yakima Valley College in Washington, where he played two years of baseball before transferring to Gonzaga University. After attending school and playing two seasons of Division I Baseball, he graduated with a degree in Sports Management in 2024. This past academic year, he worked as a Graduate Assistant Baseball Coach at Whitworth University in Spokane, WA. He and his wife, Sienna, have a one-year-old son, Braxton, and they are expecting a baby girl at the end of October. Hank is thrilled to be in Redding and excited about this opportunity to join the Simpson family.
Iliana Solis – Admissions Communications Coordinator
A recent graduate of Simpson University, Iliana is happy to transition into a full-time role as the Communication and Campus Visit Coordinator in the Office of Admissions. Over the past four years, she has been actively involved in campus life, serving as an RA, Women’s Soccer Team Manager, and ASB President. During her time as a student, Iliana also worked in Admissions as a Campus Host and Admissions Counselor Assistant. Her extensive involvement has fueled her passion for supporting prospective students, and she is enthusiastic about continuing to serve the Simpson community in this new capacity.
Daniel Martin – Campus Safety Officer
Daniel recently graduated from Simpson University with a B.A. in Music/Worship and a minor in Biblical Studies. His long-term goal is to serve as a Worship Pastor. For this season of his life, he’s excited to be back on campus as a Campus Safety Officer. Daniel loved his time at Simpson as a student, and he looks forward to serving the Simpson community as a Staff Member.
Taneyea “Lashell” Boyd – Assistant Director of Financial Aid
Lashell joins us as the Assistant Director of Financial Aid. She graduated from Simpson in 2025 with her degree in Mathematics. Lashell has spent the past three years working in the Office of Financial Aid. During this time, she was the primary lead for all things Cal Grant, overseeing the administration of a $1.7 million grant. Originally from Porterville, CA, Lashell is also a huge fan of WWE and brings both that energy and enthusiasm to her new role.
Dr. Andreas Tobler – Assistant Professor of Biology
Dr. Tobler earned his B.S. in Biochemistry, Neurobiology, and Immunology from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH) in Zurich, followed by a Ph.D. in Molecular Biology from the University of Zurich. He completed postdoctoral research in Neurobiology at Stanford University School of Medicine. With over 20 years of experience in biotech, he has held roles ranging from Staff Scientist to Senior Director in companies such as Life Technologies and Applied Biosystems, focusing on genomic and epigenetic technologies. Recently, he transitioned to education, teaching science and chemistry at California Crosspoint. His passion lies in integrating advanced biotechnology knowledge with teaching to prepare the next generation for careers in molecular biology and synthetic biology.
Jacob Zier – Assistant Football Coach
Jacob Zier joins the football program as the Defensive Coordinator. He and his wife, Cristina, bring their three daughters, Reighlyn (7), Kinley (5), and Adelynn (3) to Redding after two years serving as the Defensive Coordinator at Bluffton University. Coach Zier has also coached at Minot State University, Wenatchee High School, Trinity International University, and Puyallup High School. He spent a year working with the coaching staff at Eastern Washington University while finishing his degree. When asked about coaching at Simpson, Jacob said, “Being part of a staff that coaches with a biblical worldview is an exciting element that sets the university apart and makes it unique.
Ana “Paola” Montoya Rodriguez – Marketing Support
Bienvenidos, Paola! Originally from Cancún, Mexico, Paola moved to California in 2021 to attend Simpson while continuing to play soccer. She recently earned a B.A. in Communications with a specialization in Digital Media. With a passion for photography and a talent for capturing and editing meaningful moments, she brings a creative eye to the Marketing team. In her free time, Paola enjoys spending time with friends, watching documentaries, and caring for animals. Her love for dogs inspired her to co-found a non-profit organization with her mom and aunt in Cancún, dedicated to rescuing and caring for street dog.
Israel Valenzuela Ed.D. – Director of the Center for Excellence in Learning Technologies
Dr. Valenzuela is a digital learning strategist who is passionate about developing learners, educators, and organizations through innovative and thoughtful use of technology. He completed doctoral studies in educational technology at the University of Florida, a master’s in educational technology from Pepperdine University, and an Online Teaching Certificate from the Online Learning Consortium. His undergraduate degrees were in civil engineering and music. In addition, he has completed graduate coursework in theological studies and college student affairs. Israel’s workplace accomplishments include roles in healthcare and in higher education in the areas of learning and development, online education leadership, and instructional design.
Michael Orlicky – Director of Clinical Practice, School of Education
Michael Orlicky moved to Redding, CA in 2003 to attend Simpson University. He graduated in 2006 with a BA in Social Science. After graduating, Michael worked in various local private and public schools teaching grades K-8. Michael holds a M.Ed-Cross Cultural Teaching, MA-English, and MS-School Administration. He also holds a paralegal certification and was elected to the Shasta County Board of Education in 2024, where he represents most of the city of Redding.
Staff Promotions
Haley Caples – Payroll Specialist
In Haley’s new role, she is responsible for administering payroll and managing benefit-related tasks. Her duties include processing timekeeping and payroll systems, maintaining payroll records, preparing payroll journal entries, and reconciling the payroll general ledger. In addition, she provides support to the HR Director with various human resources tasks as needed.
Keith Obilana – Assistant Professor of Business
Professor Obilana received his bachelor’s degree in Business and HR Management at Simpson University and continued his education, receiving an MBA with a concentration in Entrepreneurship from Pepperdine University. He has worked in higher education for 14 years, primarily building and facilitating academic programs and teaching business classes as an adjunct. For Keith, teaching has always been a passion. He is delighted to move to a faculty position and to continue shaping the next generation of business leaders.
Noah Bryerton – Director of Campus Life
As the Director of Campus Life, Noah will lead out-of-the-classroom student events in collaboration with the Campus Activities Board (CAB). These events include the popular Sweet 16 series. Additionally, he will spearhead New Student Orientation (NSO) and Student Leadership on campus! Noah has a heart for Simpson and feels beyond blessed to have the opportunity to continue giving back.
Angie Hurtado – Director of Degree Completion
Angie has been named the new Director of Degree Completion at Simpson University. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Simpson University and is currently pursuing a Master’s in Community Counseling through Tozer Seminary. She brings 18 years of experience at Simpson, including 13 years dedicated to the Degree Completion Program. Her deep familiarity with the program and commitment to student success make her well-suited for this leadership role. Most recently, she served as the Assistant Director of TRIO Student Support Services, where she supported first-generation, low-income, and students with disabilities. She is enthusiastic about returning to the Degree Completion Program and looks forward to serving the local community by helping adult learners successfully achieve their academic goals.
Community Calendar
Fall offers several campus events including the popular and growing Red Hawk 5K, a part of our Homecoming celebrations which draws attendees from all over the United States. Other on and off campus events include concerts, preview weekends and more.
