
Life Together – Table of Contents
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From the desk of President Dr. Hall
Simpson Community,
In sixth grade, I became fascinated by the concept of “entropy.” With my father’s help, I set out to illustrate this idea using a simple contraption we built together. It involved hack saw blades, a soap tray, and bags of marbles. The setup allowed us to measure the weight of the marbles by pushing the tray—connected to the saw blades like a spring—to a marked line and counting its “wiggles” as it returned to rest. For a budding junior scientist, it was an interactive and eye-opening experiment that, for a moment, gave me a sense of understanding a small piece of God’s creation.
As I reflect on that memory now, the concept of entropy takes on deeper meaning. It reminds me that the physical world is always moving toward decay—our bodies age, buildings crumble, and earthly accomplishments fade. Yet, there is one constant that never diminishes: Christ’s unchanging and eternal love (Hebrews 13:8). While the world around us may falter, His kingdom remains steadfast.
This truth is central to the work we do together as a faculty. The education, guidance, and service we provide extend beyond what is temporary. When we teach, lead, and serve with Christ’s love, we are investing in something eternal—bearing fruit that will last (Matthew 6:19-20). Through Him, none of our efforts are wasted. Every seed planted, every life touched, every lesson shared contributes to His transformative work in the world.
As you read through this month’s update, I encourage you to count the “wiggles”—the blessed evidence of the Kingdom work happening in our midst. Celebrate the milestones, achievements, and the small but profound ways God is using your gifts to make a difference. Know that through Christ, our best days are still ahead.
Thank you for your faithfulness and commitment to our shared mission. Let us press on together, confident that He who began a good work in us will carry it on to completion (Philippians 1:6).
Still budding junior scientist,

Norman D. Hall, President of Simpson University

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Academics
From our College and Schools
Betty M. Dean School of Nursing

Lisa Scott, Dean of the School of Nursing, has been working with Ken White and Keller partners to apply for a U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) grant totaling approximately $1.2 million. If received, this EDA grant would be combined with the grant received last year from the Fletcher-Jones Foundation to support the Nurse Expansion and Skills Training (NEST) project. The NEST project will renovate the Nursing Simulation Lab and provide state-of-art clinical simulations for more nursing students, community medical professionals, and a future Family Nurse Practitioner program.
The Betty M. Dean School of Nursing is preparing to expand the student cohort size for the BSN program in the fall of 2025. Currently the program is limited to enrolling 27 nursing students each fall and spring. Once approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN), that number will grow to 45. Submission to the BRN is expected by January 14, 2025.
College of Arts & Sciences
BA in Business – Data Science and AI. The Business Department has renamed one of its BA program tracks from Computer Information Systems (CIS) to Data Science and AI. The addition of a new Data Science professor, Dr. Benjamin Omwando, who brings enormous talent and expertise in Artificial Intelligence, will greatly enhance the program offerings to become a cutting-edge business program in the north state.

BS in Social Work. The Psychology Department has added a minor in Social Work to provide a channel for the future BS in Social Work currently under development. With recent WASC approval (see below), Dr. Deb Baker, Associate Professor of Psychology/Social Work, is preparing the next stage of application materials in order to have the BSW program ready to launch in fall 2026.
BS in Aviation. We’ve received a draft MOU from Iasco Flight Training, Inc. and are currently reviewing the terms. We expect some further negotiating will be needed over the next few weeks before a final agreement can be signed.

2024 Christmas Concert – The Music Department presented its annual Christmas concert, “The Joy of Christmas,” on Sunday, December 8 to a nearly full house in the Grant Student Life Center. The SU Chorale, Symphonic Choir, and Jazz Ensemble were joined by the Shasta Symphony Orchestra and ballet dancers from the Redding Arts Project to perform works by Anderson, Tchaikovsky, Prokofiev, Pentatonix, and traditional carols of the season. It was a memorable and festive start to the holiday season. We are looking forward to the spring concert season that includes “An Evening of Broadway” on February 21, and the Spring Concert on April 11, 2025. See the website for tickets.
School of Education
PK-3 Credential Program. Dr. Darren Gordon, Dean of the School of Education, has been working with the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) to ensure that all elements for this new credential have been properly addressed in the proposal. The proposal is in the final stages of completion before being submitted to the CTC next month.
School of Adult Studies
B.S. in Criminal Justice (online). The School of Adult Studies will be launching a new program for the fall 2025 term. The B.S. in Criminal Justice is the second major added to the Degree Completion program since the launch of the Social Welfare major in 2022. The 36-unit degree completion program is designed for the working adult seeking a relatable bachelor’s degree in the fields of law enforcement, justice system, and corrections. A media campaign will begin in January 2025 to promote the new program.
A.W. Tozer Theological Seminary
Vietnam Programs – In September 2024, Vietnamese pastoral students traveled to Bangkok to participate in a ministry course entitled “Personal Health of the Leader.” According to Rev. Dr. Pat Blewett, Executive Dean of A. W. Tozer Theological Seminary, there has been a good reception for more training from students of Alliance Theological College and Hanoi Bible College. An additional 10 students will join the cohort this February because of these relationships that Dr. Blewett has developed.

- Hong Kong Master of Arts in Community Counseling Program – The Hong Kong Institute of Christian Counselors hosted 5 Master of Arts Community Counseling graduates in December at their HKICC Commencement Service. Dr. Blewett was present to deliver their diplomas for on behalf of A.W. Tozer Theological Seminary.
- Master of Arts in Community Counseling (MA-CC) – The program developed for the international market is now being offered stateside. This past fall 2 students joined the program delivered fully online.
- Tozer Advanced Program (TAP) – Under the direction of Dr. Blewett, Tozer Seminary is working with several students who are completing their bachelor’s degree and a seminary degree in a program we are calling “Tozer Advanced Program” (TAP). The goal of the program is to reduce redundancy and become more cost effective for students completing both degrees. These students, no doubt, will seek credentialing within the Christian &Missionary Alliance.
- Certificate in Christian Ministry– A new cohort offering the Certificate in Christian Ministry program in Chinese for launched this fall with Dr. David Yip coordinating the program. There are approximately 10 students in this cohort. Tozer Seminary will also start an English-speaking Certificate in Christian Ministry cohort online. This Certificate program meets the basic educational requirements of the Christian & Missionary Alliance in the states.
- International Worker in Residence Program – Dr. Pat Blewett, Dean of Tozer Seminary, is working with the national C&MA office to recruit an International Worker in Residence (IWIR) for the 25-26 school year. The IWIR person or couple are Alliance missionaries invited to live on campus for a year in order to interact with students and teach one course per semester.
- Empower Ministry Certificate Program Credits – Tozer Seminary is working to grant academic credit for a Christian & Missionary Alliance developmental ministry program for women called Empower. Participants in this powerful training program can receive up to 6 units of spiritual formation credit and women in ministry credit.
Accreditation Matters
WASC has approved the new Bachelor of Social Work. On December 23, 2024, Simpson University received official notification from WASC that that we are approved to proceed with the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program. Dr. Deb Baker, Associate Professor of Psychology & Social Work has been the driver behind the BSW proposal and is currently preparing the application with the Council of Social Work Education (CSWE) to get the necessary CSWE accreditation process underway for a fall 2026 candidacy. Recruiting for the program will begin this spring for a fall 2025 freshmen start.
WASC final commission hearing will be held on February 13, 2025, for the university’s accreditation reaffirmation. During that meeting, Dr. Hall and the ALO, Dr. Pat Blewett, will meet in person with the commissioners while other university personnel engage via Zoom. This meeting will mark the conclusion of the formal reaffirmation process following the WASC Team visit in October 2024.
Through the guidance of Dr. Hall and with contributions from Institutional Research, Academic Affairs, and Human Resources, a letter of response to support and correct the final WASC Team report was addressed to the Commission in December ahead of the Commission’s meeting. The SU leadership team would like to thank all the staff, faculty, students, and Board members who have had a hand in this two-year-long process.
Faculty Accomplishments
Dr. Ryan Brasher, Associate Professor of Political Science.
Book published: The Afghan Patchwork State: Political Ideology, Infrastructural Power, and the Critical Juncture of 1929, Palgrave MacMillan, 2024.


Dr. Kelley Hammond, Assistant Professor of Kinesiology.
Article published: “Effectiveness of a Fast- vs. Slow-Velocity Training on Load-Velocity Characteristics in Older Adults: A Pilot Study,” in International Journal of Exercise Science 17(7), 2024: 1416-28.
Dr. Deb Baker, Associate Professor of Social Work (below left) & Dr. Stacey Lemmer, Director MA/CP (below right). Conference presentation: The North American Association of Christians in Social Work (NACSW) in Dallas, Texas in October. “The Trauma Informed Practice/Professor” they co-resented with an MACP student, Feven Gebre.


Dr. Michele Anberg-Espinosa, Assistant Professor of Education.
Conference presentation: National Conference on Dual Language, November 2024, “La Cosecha” 2024.


Dr. Timothy Orr, Associate Professor of History.
Conference presentation: Sixteenth Century Society Conference in Toronto, Canada from October 30th to November 3rd. Presented a paper entitled “The Winter Queen in Exile: Elizabeth Stuart’s Personal and Political Maneuverings.” He was also elected to a three-year term to the Executive Council for the Sixteenth Century Society.
Dr. John Ayabe, Provost.
Conference facilitator: Roundtable “Advising Models That Retain Students.” Council of Independent Colleges 2024 Institute for Chief Academic Officers, Nov. 4, 2024, Portland, OR.


Dr. Melanie Howard, Associate Provost and Dean of Arts & Sciences.
Conference planner: Society of Biblical Literature Conference in November. Mennonite Scholars and Friends Forum, planning committee member.
Dr. Thomas Omwando, Associate Professor of Engineering.
Conference participant: The Fundamentals of Program Assessment Workshop, Baltimore, MD in November 2024. Received training on ABET accreditation procedures.


Dr. Michael Nicodemus, Associate Professor of Biology.
Conference participant: Au Sable Advisory Meeting in Michigan in September. This is important as we explore a wildlife biology track for the major.
Dr. Norman D. Hall, President of Simpson University
Named one of The 10 Inspiring Education Leaders 2024 by The Education Magazine. Recognized for his ‘vision and grit‘ in leading Simpson University.

Faculty Professional Development
“Working Towards Promotion and Building a Curriculum Vitae,” September 30, 2024
The Faculty Development Committee (FDC) led an internal development session for faculty to explain the faculty promotion processes and to explain practices faculty should consider as they plan for professional growth as a professor. Dr. Craig Smith, Professor of New Testament, led the session and provided numerous examples as a senior faculty member.
“Discovering Your Unconscious Bias: Learning How to Love Each Other Better,” October 10, 2024
The faculty participated in a day-long workshop organized by the university’s Diversity Committee and led by Dr. Jade Chia. The workshop focused on helping faculty and staff develop a Christ-centered, inclusive community based on love, humility, and respect. Dr. Chia guided faculty and staff to consider personal biases and to deepen their understanding of each other with the goal of building a stronger, more compassionate environment both for students and colleagues.

Faculty Review and Peer Evaluation
Under the guidance of the Associate Provost, Dr. Melanie Howard, a robust faculty review and evaluation process was inaugurated this past fall 2024. The process now includes peer evaluations in the classroom and more involvement by the Faculty Personnel Committee. Faculty in line for contract renewal at the end of this academic year were the first to undergo the revised system.
Articulation Agreements with California Community Colleges and Transferability to Simpson University
Under the direction of the university Registrar, Adrienne Currington, SU is one of only a few private universities in California to have program articulations and course equivalency information embedded in the California ASSIST system, the “official course transfer and articulation system for California colleges and universities.” As the primary system used by California community college students and academic counselors to determine transfer pathways to a four-year institution in California, this initiative will greatly enhance student access to SU programs as a transfer option. It is a major improvement in making it easier for students to determine what courses transfer to SU and to see SU as an option to complete a four-year degree. Over 100 programs across the four “feeder” schools in the north state have been added in the ASSIST system with transfer information to SU, with more coming online in 2025.

High School Dual-enrollment Initiative
Under the direction of the Provost, Dr. John Ayabe, SU has been working to create more dual-credit and concurrent-credit options for Shasta County high school students. New this year, SU signed an MOU with Shasta High School to provide two college-level engineering courses for dual-credit. Other course offerings are in the works as the university seeks to expand its role as Redding’s hometown university with other area high schools.
Christian Halls International Partnership
SU is preparing to offer online programs to members of the Christian Halls International (CHI) affiliates around the country. CHI operates on an Oxford University model in which students join local “halls” in their community to gain mentoring and Christian discipleship while enrolling in undergraduate and/or graduate degree-programs delivered remotely by university partners. The Memo of Understanding is currently under review.
International Education Week
The U.S. Department of Education and the U.S. Department of State designated November 18-22, 2024 as International Education Week in the U.S. Campuses across the country recognized the important role that study abroad programs have in the education of undergraduate students both here at home and away. To honor the week SU held daily events on campus to celebrate our international students and to give attention to the value of study abroad and international travel. The week ended with a luncheon on campus and an address delivered by Dr. Romelia Mó Isem, Vice Minister of Intercultural and Bilingual Education from the Republic of Guatemala. Dr. Mo spoke on the topic of Interculturality.

Prospective Guatemala Projects
After hosting the Vice Minister of Intercultural and Bilingual Education from the Republic of Guatemala in November, Dr. Norm Hall, Dr. John Ayabe, and Dr. Melanie Howard visited Guatemala along with Alliance Redwoods CEO, Jim Blake, and Dr. Miguel Hilario of Alliance Redwoods during the first week of December 2024. The purpose of the trip was to meet with leaders of indigenous communities, government officials, and university staff to explore potential partnerships for English language instruction, teacher training, and student exchange. Dr. Ayabe said, “This is an exploratory trip to better understand the academic needs of Guatemala and to find out how Simpson University and Alliance Redwoods can work together to provide learning opportunities for Guatemalan students.” Conversations are ongoing.

Student Life

Last fall, we ended our chapel series with student and staff baptisms. Three students were baptized and Jaden and Lindsey from the HR office were also baptized. Students shared stories of coming to Jesus and deepening their faith. The spring 2025 chapel theme is – The Authentic You: Identity & Calling; we have a diverse and exciting chapel speaker line up including our new Associate Provost and Dean of the College of Arts & Sciences, the current chaplain for an MLS pro team, former NFL players, a C&MA missionary and local pastors.

Missions
We have 13 international and domestic mission trips planned for the 2025 year (spring break and summer). We are still gaining student interest and have almost 90 students committed to participate in WorldServe trips. There are several students who will also be participating in international internships and extending their stay after finishing their WorldServe trip. This is a new component of our growing WorldServe program. Monthly team training begins this semester along with fundraising, leading to a collective missions training the week after graduation.

Programming
We ended the fall 2025 semester strong with a new campus program, Kampus Karaoke, and other favorite events like O Holy Night and Late Night Breakfast. We have an engaging line up for spring including the Silent Dance, the Color Run and Spring Fest. Our events committee put on over one hundred programs with an almost 5,000 total attendance count.

We began the semester with 502 residents and 163 off campus. For spring, we have 424 returners, 20 new students, and 156 off campus.

Retention
Retention is the measure of new freshmen who return to be sophomores. This spring we lost a higher number of students, many of which has to do with the football program. Half of the 44 football players we lost were due to the coaching turnover and there is a great dissatisfaction that there wasn’t play time for the non-traveling team. We need a JV program where players can get play time even if they do not make the cut to be in the top third of football players who travel.
Of the 85 fall students who are not coming back for spring, we have lost 52 Freshmen, 24 sophomores 7 juniors and 2 seniors. Of those 85 students, 70 were athletes with 44 being football and 11 being men’s soccer.
With these losses, we are on track to end with a lower retention rate for the year. Of the 175 freshmen who started in fall 2024, we have already lost 52. This compares to past years:
- 2024 – lost 52 of the 175 freshmen with a Fall to Spring retention rate of 70.3%
- 2023 – lost 27 of the 145 freshmen with a Fall to Spring retention rate of 81.4%
- 2022 – lost 23 of the 109 freshmen with a Fall to Spring retention rate of 78.9%
Student Development is in the process of completely redesigning positions to put our highest focus on retention. We have been at 60% for the past two years and will dip below this. Ideally, we need to be in the 70+% range. This will be a difficult transition as our whole division needs to alter how we operate each persons role will change, but I am confident we can turn this around.

Academic Support
The Academic Success Center has increased its online presence through Canvas with the aim of developing an online library of curated study resources for all majors.
For the spring semester, we are increasing tutoring options and tutor availability to support more students.
The Associate Dean of Student Success and Retention will be teaching a new, 1-credit student success seminar in the spring for students in negative academic status. The course will guide students in setting personal and academic goals and implementing a plan to reach those goals. One component of the course will be attending “Scholar Hours” in the library, a facilitate personalized study hall. Approximately 60 students will be on negative status in the spring (provisional acceptance or academic probation).
Athletics
New Sports Programs
- Dance – The current cheer coach is recruiting players for a new competitive dance team, and already eight prospects have been identified.
- Flag Football – The initial press conference was held to announce this new sport in December, 2024. Coverage of the press conference was played by the local ABC affiliate, and three inquiries were received by the Admission Department before the Christmas break began.
- E-games – plans for recruiting are under development with a plan to have combined recruiting by Brian Dawson, VP for Student Development, and Admissions staff.
- Marching Band – Interview process is still underway for a final candidate.
Fall 2024 Performance
FOOTBALL – Ramirez hauls in two TD’s

- Simpson football finished its first full season under Head Coach Shawn Daniel
- They have been admitted into the prestigious Frontier Conference for the 2025-26 year
- Quarterback Kaleb Andersen connected with wideout Talan Ramirez for 15 yards for the first touchdown in Simpson University history against #23 in the nation at the time, Southern Oregon University
WOMEN’S SOCCER – Red Hawks season comes to a close

- Women’s Soccer qualified for the Cal Pac Conference Tournament for the third time in the past four years.
- Three players earned Cal Pac Player of the Week honors
- Kiah Gridley, Denise Elias-Martinez, and Chloe Tague
- Eight players earned Cal Pac end of the year honors including:
- 1st Team All-Conference (Izabella Baez and Denise Elias-Martinez) 2nd Team All-Conference (Chloe Tague and Litsy Munoz)
- Honorable Mention Selections (Paola Montoya and Kayla Arias-Lerma)
- Alyssa Trevino took home Cal Pac Champions of Character award
- Kylie Hokanson earned a spot on the All-Academic team
MEN’S SOCCER – Five Red Hawks pick up Cal Pac awards

- Men’s Soccer won the “Sky Cup” as they took down Cascade rival Oregon Tech 2-0
- Two players earned Cal Pac Player of the week honors :Jesus Rodriguez and Eric Canela
- Five players earned Cal Pac end of the year honors including:
- 2nd Team All-Conference Selection (Jesus Rodriguez)
- Two Honorable Mention (Gio De La Torre and Alexander Zimmerman)
- Ryan Denega took home the Cal Pac Champions of Character award
- Christian Valdez earned a spot on the All-Academic team
WOMEN’S VOLLEYBALL – Simpson’s historic season comes to a close

- Had its finest season in recent memory and most successful year under Head Coach Mike Haworth. Went 17-14 and 10-5 in conference play as they earned the #2 seed in the Cal Pac tournament
- First playoff appearance in over a decade as they shattered the program wins record in Cal Pac play
- Advance to the Cal Pac title game as they came back from down 2 sets to none win the semifinal game. Earned Cal Pac Player of the Week honors on five different occasions
- Earned Cal Pac Player of the Week honors on five different occasions.
- Madison Kammuller (3X), Tiara Manns, Katie Graham
- Six girls took home Cal Pac awards:
- Katie Graham earned 1st Team All-Conference honors. The first Red Hawk to earn a first team spot since 2013
- Two players earned 2nd Team All-Conference honors (Madison Kammuller and Tiara Manns)
- Mallory Swenson and Mariah Napoleon earned Honorable Mention honors
- Lynette McKenzie took the Cal Pac Champions of Character award
- Katie Graham, Mallory Swenson, and Madison Kammuller earned a spot on the All-Academic team
- Katie Graham earned an Honorable Mention nod on the NAIA All-Region team for the Southwest region squad
CROSS COUNTRY – Red Hawks wrap up season at the national stage

- Had another strong year under second year Head Coach Jonathan Hall
- Sent two players to the National Championships (Joy Taylor and Cade Salsedo)
- Four players earned Cal Pac end of the year awards
- Jewelia Zaragoza, Cade Salsedo, and Joy Taylor earned 2nd Team All-Conference
- Joy Taylor earned a spot on the All-Academic team
- Mark Rachel and Jewelia Zaragoza took home the Cal Pac Champions of Character award
GOLF – Simpson boys place third in the Vanguard Fall Invitational

- The men’s and women’s golf squad finished its Fall season strong as they had a third-place finish at the Vanguard Invitational to round out its Fall competition
- Trey Alwert took home the best individual score at the Oregon Tech Fall Invite while Ty Salvador finished third individually at the Masters University Invite
MEN’S BASKETBALL – Red Hawks fall to the Warriors

- In the midst of its second year Head Coach David Cone
- Earned Cal Pac Player of the Week honors on three occasions
- Drey Ubas (twice)
- DaMari Tate
WOMEN’S BASKETBALL – Simpson comes up short against the Banana Slugs

- In the midst of its first season under Head Coach Anthony Taylor
- Currently 6-5 as they defeated Stanton University this past weekend
WRESTLING – Red Hawks dominate the Boxer Open

- Men’s and women’s have started competition and wrestled well in various duals and tournament meets
- William Schwertscharf has won two meets thus far. Taking first place at the Clackamas Open and the Mat Cat Open
- Arthur Parra placed second in the Mat Cat Open
SWIMMING & DIVING – Red Hawks swim at Soka

The swim squad has participated in meets and broken numerous personal records under second year Head Coach Logan Friesen.
BASEBALL – Simpson Baseball hosts summer camp

Played its second consecutive alumni game under the lights on its home field on campus.
WOMEN’S FLAG FOOTBALL – Simpson becomes first NorCal University to add Women’s Flag Football

Recently announced the brand-new program will compete this upcoming 2025-26 year.
OVERALL – Grad brothers take gold

- Three out of the four eligible athletic programs competed in postseason play this fall
- Simpson claimed a Cal Pac Player of the Week representative 13 different occasions thus far
- 23 different athletes picked up Cal Pac accolades thus far which includes one All-Region selection, and two runners qualifying for the National Tournament
Human Resources
New Hires

Dr. Erin Gordon joins us as the Associate Dean of Student Success and Retention. She graduated from Simpson University in 1997 with a B.A. in English and again in 2013 with an M.A. in Education. She completed a doctorate in education in 2023 at Sam Houston State University. Erin and her husband, Darren, served with Wycliffe Bible Translators in Southeast Asia for 15 years. They have four children. Erin was a middle school teacher before moving into higher education and her passion is empowering students to reach their academic, vocational, and life goals.
Jackson Bennett is an Assistant Coach for the Baseball team. Bennett is entering his second year on the Red Hawks coaching staff as he served as a graduate assistant coach last year. Before starting his coaching career, Bennett studied and played baseball at Modesto College. He transferred to Simpson in the fall of 2019 where he spent the next three seasons in a Red Hawks jersey. Bennett is currently second all-time in Simpson’s Baseball program history with a 9.69 K/9 in his career. He graduated in 2023 with his Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology and he is currently pursuing his Master of Arts in Business Administration.


Micayla Brodish is serving in Student Development as the Recreation and Intramural Coordinator. Micayla is from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She studied and received her degree in Sociology from Nyack College in 2019 and served there in Student Development for four years post-graduation. Micayla is currently in her second year of ministry school and is excited for the days ahead.
Tenyson Fowler has joined the Marketing Department as the Communications & Media Relations Specialist. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Communications and Journalism from the University of Nevada, Reno in May 2024. Tenyson grew up on a generational cattle ranch in Igo-Ono, California and is excited to return to her home state. In her free time, she enjoys the outdoors, reading, and spending time with family and friends. Her current hobby is snowboarding. You might see her on the slopes this winter!


Elizabeth Robinett (Coach Robin) joins us as the Assistant Coach for Women’s Basketball. She played basketball for American Christian Academy and was on the Varsity team’s starting lineup for four years. She received special recognition from CIF as well as multiple all-tourney medals. Coach Robin is continuing her education at Shasta College and has received two A.A. degrees in Business. Coach Robinett grew up in a military family and transitioned into civilian life in Redding.
Julianna Crow is working as the Credential Analyst in the School of Education. She attended school at Simpson University where she earned her B.A. in Liberal Studies, her Multiple Subject Teaching Credential, and her M.A. in Education. Julianna had the privilege of teaching third grade for several years in Anderson before transitioning to Simpson. Julianna is married to Lane and together they enjoy snowboarding, nature walks, traveling and playing board games.


Dinah Kerubo Aming’a has joined the Student Development team as the Academic Success Center Coordinator. Dinah was born in Kenya and moved to the U.S. in 2018 to attend college. She double majored in Psychology and Performance Theater at Cardinal Stritch University in Wisconsin. Dinah came to Redding in 2022 to visit family and decided to stay because she loved the area so much, including the Redding heat! She previously worked at Simpson as an advisor at Los Molinos High School in the Gear Up program. Dinah is also a student in the MACP program, looking to graduate in August 2025. Outside of work, she enjoys reading, fashion design, writing, walking, driving, and spending time with family and friends.
Holly Gridley has joined the School of Nursing in the Coordinator position. Holly was born and raised in Red Bluff, CA, she recently celebrated the birth of her second daughter, Callie, last summer and her 5-year wedding anniversary last fall. She previously worked as a medical scribe working alongside clinicians in the Shasta County community for 7 years.


Trevor Utter has been added to the coaching staff as the Assistant Football Coach. Trevor earned a B.A. in Education and an M.A. in Educational Leadership from the University of Montana. Before joining the coaching roster at Simpson, he served as a Principal at Eureka Middle School. While leading the students as E.M.S., Trevor also held the Head Football Coach position at Lincoln County High School.
Jonathan “Po” Aamodt serves as our Marketing Support in the Marketing Department. He joined our staff last September and also was a member of the Simpson Football team. Po is working towards his M.A. Degree in Business Administration. He received a Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design from Kansas Wesleyan University.


Isabelle Carter has been hired as an Admissions Counselor. She will join the Enrollment team in January. Isabelle is a professional classical violist and has taught music since 2019. She received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications from Grand Canyon University.
Alexandra Cooper, Financial Aid Advisor, joins Simpson part-time. A Redding native, Alex graduated from Simpson University with a B.A. in Business Administration and an M.A. in Organizational Leadership. As a student, Alex was a student leader, played for the women’s basketball team, served on mission trips, and worked for Facilities and Financial Aid Office. Affectionately known as “Coop”, Alex loves sports, traveling and shopping. Alex will be working part-time in the Financial Aid Office awarding financial aid packages.


Michael Bray joined the Athletic department as the Assistant Bass Fishing Coach, part-time. Michael graduated from Simpson with a degree in Business Administration with a Management concentration. Before attending Simpson, he was a student at Cal Poly Pomona. During his undergraduate career, he was a member and captain of the Bass Fishing Team. Additionally, he went on a 2-week mission trip to Uganda through World Serve. Michael has also worked with Bass Angler Magazine and Wild West Bass Trail.
Staff Promotions
Jerry A. Grimshaw assumed the duties of Dean of Enrollment and Marketing effective December 1, 2024. Jerry earned a B.A. in Biblical Studies from Trinity Bible College and an M.A. in Teaching Social Sciences from Northern State University. He has completed all the coursework for his Ed.D. in Educational Leadership from the University of Phoenix. Jerry previously served as Enrollment Manager at Trinity Bible College and brings a wealth of recruiting experience to his new position. Jerry began working at Simpson in January 2023 as the Assistant Head Football Coach and was instrumental in launching the new program. Jerry and his wife, Sherry have two adult children.


Debbie Stierli serves as the Director of Clinical Practice in the School of Education. She previously worked as Simpson’s PK-3 Coordinator. Debbie graduated from Simpson University’s Teaching Credential program in 1997. She went on to earn her Master’s in Educational Leadership and an Administrative Credential. She began her teaching career in the Enterprise Elementary School District before transitioning to Principal/Superintendent at a local charter school. Debbie is married to her high school sweetheart, Devin and together they have two wonderful sons. Debbie is deeply grateful for the opportunity to return to Simpson to empower the next generation of teacher leaders.
Open Positions
Financial Aid Specialist |
Assistant/Associate Professor of Nursing |
Assistant Women’s Volleyball Coach |
Assistant/Associate Professor of Engineering |
Assistant/Associate Professor of Biology |
Academic Records Specialist |
Director of Bands and Asst./Assoc. Prof. of Music |
Assistant Professor of Business and Data Science |
Major Gifts Officer – Pacific Northwest |
Assistant/Associate Professor of Business Admin. |
Controller |
Executive Assistant to the Provost |
Admissions Counselor |
Bus Driver |
Asst. Football Coach – Defensive Coord. |
Head Bass Fishing Coach |
Head Men/Women’s Golf Coach |
Nursing Adjunct Clinical Instructor |
Adjunct Instructor of Mathematics |
Adjunct Instructor of Psychology |
Adjunct Instructor for Tozer Seminary |
Adjunct Instructor of Engineering |
Adjunct Faculty – Business Department |
Adjunct Instructor of Chemistry |
Adjunct Instructor of English |
2024 Employee Recognition & Faculty/Staff Christmas Party
On December 13, 2024, the Simpson community gathered for Employee Recognition and the Annual Faculty/Staff Christmas Party. These two annual events are a cherished time to encourage each other, connect with colleagues, and celebrate the Christmas season.




Along with staff and faculty who were recognized for their years of service, Dr. Brian Hooker was honored as Faculty Emeritus. He served Simpson as a Professor of Biology from 2010 to 2023. It is a great honor to recognize Dr. Hooker, celebrating his lifelong dedication, exceptional contributions, and lasting impact on both students and the academic community. Following the Employee Recognition, we gathered for the Annual Faculty/Staff Christmas Party. We played games, sang, fellowshipped, and ate a potluck meal with the meat provided by Simpson and served by the President.
Staff Council – We are in the early stages of revitalizing the Staff Council and are excited about the opportunities this will bring for staff engagement and collaboration.
Congratulations
Dr. Norm Reinhardt, for earning his Ph.D. in Learning and Organizational Change from Baylor University. Dr. Reinhardt’s dissertation, “Exploring the Use of the ESG Framework for Corporate Social Responsibility among Start-up and Early-stage Technology Companies: A Qualitative Multiple Case Study,” is a significant contribution to the field. His research explores the growing importance of environmental, social, and governance (ESD) principles and how emerging companies are integrating these frameworks to drive meaningful change. Through his research, Dr. Reinhardt has not only advanced his expertise in organizational change but has also demonstrated a deep commitment to addressing real-world issues that will shape the future.

Advancement
Performance
Year-over-year performance in both unrestricted and restricted revenue remains higher than the same period last year
Cash flow has also trended higher over the last three years and is continuing the higher trend this year. Our focus remains on ensuring adequate “coal” money to fuel the university engine. As you’ll see below, several factors contributed positively to this facet including two permanently restricted charitable remainder trusts being converted to unrestricted cash.

Restricted revenues exceed goals by a large margin even when not accounting for written, yet unformalized, pledge commitments. Those commitments which represent more than $600,000 are included in the graphic below to provide a more complete picture of the year’s performance. Also included in the numbers is a grant for $500,000 from the Fletcher Jones foundation to help expand the nursing program to accommodate 90 graduates annually, a capacity increase of 67%.

Upcoming Events
Spring offers several campus events including the popular and growing Red Hawk Show-n-Shine classic car show in April which draws attendees from all over the United States. Other on and off campus events include concerts, scholarship summits and more.
Other Events include:
- Feb 1 – Feb 8 – Visalia Alumni event
- Feb 21 – A Night of Broadway
- Mar 1 – Bay Area Alumni & Church event
- Mar 30 – (TENT) Anchorage Alumni & Church event
- April 5 – Seattle Alumni & Church event
- April 11 – Spring Concert
- March – Russ Marshall Music Program presents its spring concert April TBD – Red
- April 22 or 24* – Hawk Show-n-Shine in partnership with Redding Kool April Nights
Grants and Keller
We recently submitted a request to the Economic Development Administration (EDA) for a Workforce Improvement Program (WIP) grant to provide additional equipment necessary for two-phased expansion of the nursing co-hort size and future implementation of a Nurse Practitioner Program. The first phase expansion will grow the nursing program graduation capacity up from 54 to 90 students annually.
The Fletcher Jones Foundation recently contributed more than $500,000 to aid in the expansion of the Nursing cohort size through the purchase of high-fidelity simulation mannikins. Recent regulatory changes allow for more hours in a simulated clinical environment to be counted toward nursing certification minimums. The expansion of the our lab environment paves the way for expansion of the co-hort size.
The Murdock Trust awarded the University a $257,000 grant to improve major donor fundraising in the Pacific Northwest. The funds will be issued on a sliding scale to help on-ramp an additional solicitor for that region over the next three years.
We continue to explore additional grant opportunities through both public and private funders on a host of university priorities.
Red Hawk Village – Preliminary start up costs and revenue projections have been made by staff before Christmas break and a draft prospectus will be written.
Enrollment & Operations
Spring Enrollment Performance and New Initiatives
By the Numbers: The anticipated Spring enrollment, as of Jan. 6, is shown at right. We see a slight bump in Spring TUG enrollees and expect to be 58 ahead of this time last year. Conversely, our Fall to Spring TUG rate fell by more than 4%, related significantly to the behavior and subsequent departure of our football defensive coach. Further in the recruiting machine, made up of athletics, marketing and admissions we experienced 6 pregnancies which had the largest impact in Degree Completion.

511 Initiative – One effort to counteract the lull in staffing included contracting 511 Enterprises to deliver a focused calling campaign for Degree Completion and Tozer. 511 staff are also making a second wave of calls to Redding Chamber of Commerce businesses which have expressed some level of interest in the Degree Completion programs. The initiative resulted in 13 interviews.
Marketing & Advertisement Initiative – Major initiatives have been the change of advertising spending from streaming TV to more targeted campaigns on social media. New creative is under design for DCP prior learning activities, women’s flag football, social work, and criminal justice. AI software is being utilized to create more focus on individual client needs.
Full Spectrum Enrollment Evaluation with JMP (weekly engagement). This includes admission practices and results of advertising campaign.

Projected Fall Enrollment is shown at left, with columns for high, middle, and low performance at right. At present, data shows TUG deposits performing well. Where we had 34 deposits, this time last year we had 17. In all other areas we see performance equal to, or slightly ahead of last year.
Drivers – Several (but not all) programs that show capacity to improve enrollment performance next year are listed at right.

Athletic growth – is now tracked by a shared spreadsheet shown below, which illustrates prior performance, goals, progress to goals and financial aid committed. The goals are not tightly synced with overall admissions goals and can be seen as quite aggressive in that Fall 2024 reported 491 athletes and this years goal represents 679.

Information Technology

- AI software is undergoing review for applications to improve website visitor interaction, streamline admission counselor workflow and enhance marketing creative design. Early research shows potential for cost savings and increasing coverage to 24-hour response availability.
- Fast Track mockups have been presented to staff. The structure of this student service product is a real time measure of progress on admission, payment, and registration steps for onboarding students.
- Blackbaud server failures reduced open rates for Advancement Direct Mail campaigns. IT staff have logged nearly 100 staff hours to remedy email processes. External email campaigns by all departments will require more sophistication to keep outbound open rates at high levels. IT has given guidelines to Advancement and Admissions.
Business and Finance
End of Year Projection – We started the year on a high note with enrollment, though performance for Spring enrollment dipped by 20 or more beyond the normal mid-year drop, mostly related to the coach change in football resulting in an income loss of about $600K, split between tuition and housing. The drop in in Degree Completion enrollment resulted in a loss of about $200K and sports travel increased resulted in about $200K overspend. In terms of net income, at the end of the year we originally expected as much as $1.4M. Even with the extra spend as noted above, we have significant fundraising momentum in our favor and still expect to end the year with $1.1M to the positive.
Fire Insurance – We have received a draft letter from the Fire Marshal stating that our campus is not the fire risk that is represented on the map. We continue working with our broker on final wording and finalization on City letterhead.
PCA – PCA agreed to reduce and extend their monthly payment, though the agreed upon amount remains the same. They have asked for 18 additional months starting May 1st at $25,000 per month.
Sage – Considering a proposal to add 5 years to the contract with the food vendor for a $100,000 gift and a $100,000 interest free loan.
Physical Plant Improvements

Outdoor Tennis, Basketball and Pickleball Courts -This student initiated project gave inspiration to the courts much needed makeovers.

Filtered Water Stations – After a student initiated request, filtered water stations will be placed in each residence hall, the first of which was added Fall 2024.

Renewed Laundry Contract – This renewed contract resulted in replacing all our laundry machines campus wide, improving each students on-campus experience.

New Library Carpet – The new carpet installation was completed over the Christmas break. A good portion of the original carpet on the second floor was replaced. The counseling areas and faculty offices were included in this project as well as the student areas.

Business, Tech, & Engineering Building Progress – In early December, the STEM building received certification, marking a key project milestone. Winter rainstorms have slowed progress, but the plumbing trench work is set to begin this month as we move into the next phase of construction.

New Scoreboard – A new scoreboard for the softball field will be installed and be ready for use during this upcoming spring season.

Expanded & Renovated Softball Home Dugout – In addition to the new scoreboard, the home dugout will serve our players well as we expect to have a sensational 2025 Spring season. All work and supplies are provided via donation.

Dining Center Improvements – Long overdue roof repair work occurred Fall 2024, vitally curbing further damage to the substructure of our Dining Center.

Athletic Branding – Champions of Character banners have been ordered and will be conspicuously placed as part of the Athletic Department’s continuing efforts to develop student values.
In Memoriam

Dr. Robin Dummer
Dr. Dummer went home to be with the Lord on December 16, 2024. He served as Simpson University’s President from 2015 to 2018. He began his tenure with Simpson as a Bible instructor when Simpson was located in San Francisco. Committed to the mission, he moved with the University when Simpson came to Redding. He loved to teach and was a favorite professor of the students. Dr. Dummer was known by all as a humble man who was a faithful servant-leader. He enjoyed the administrative side of Academic Affairs, and after a number of years teaching, he became the Associate Provost, focusing on research and accreditation. In 2015, he was asked to serve as the Interim President. After waiting for the Lord to raise up a new leader, the Board concluded that the next leader would be Dr. Dummer. He was not a flashy leader, rather, he was a servant leader who was faithful to the vision of the University and worked diligently to keep it afloat financially. No doubt, without Dr. Dummer, we would have closed years earlier. He retired from Simpson in 2018. He and his wife, Debbie, moved to Idaho to be near their daughter and grandchildren. A memorial service will be held on Friday, January 31 at 2 PM in Nampa, Idaho.
Joanne Dyk
Simpson University was saddened to learn of the passing of Mrs. Joanne Dyk, of Yuma AZ, on January 7, 2025. Joanne was much loved by her family and friends. A faithful friend and prayer warrior. She was preceded in death by Russel Oleson (husband), her husband and Chair of Simpson University’s Board of Trustees, Dale Dyk (2016), and her son, Duane Oleson. Joanne is survived by her daughter, Patti Weishaar, son, Jeff Oleson, stepdaughter Sherry Enfield, and stepson, Larry Dyk. Funeral/Memorial services TBA.
