president report 2014

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Dear Friends,

Welcome to this five-year review of York College. As fellow investors, we have shared expectations for return on our joint investment. Aside from transparency, I believe our highest expectations will always include fidelity to our mission and the testimony of those whose lives are touched and changed by an association with York College. As Dr. Steve Eckman’s service as president began in January 2009, this report serves as both an institutional update and a report on the first five years of his presidency.

Since becoming chairman of the board in 2006, no other, single decision has weighed on my heart more than the selection of a successor for Dr. Wayne Baker as president. To say that the Lord brought the right man with the right preparation and the right heart for the job is no understatement.

The past five years have seen many successes for the college. Among the most important were:

• a God honoring, almost seamless transition from Dr. Baker to Dr. Eckman.• an intentional re-focusing on the college’s core values and what that means

for students.• five straight years of financial stability in a nation embroiled with fiscal

uncertainty.• pursuit of a sustainable, responsible model that aligns mission, resources and

goals.

Although we have also had our share of set-backs, our path is positive as is our vision for the future.

Most important to me, and I believe to all those who love York College, are President Eckman’s dedication to York’s mission and his vision for preserving and building on that mission. Of almost equal importance, is the way these traits are grounded in Steve’s concern and daily interaction with YC’s students – especially, his emphasis on the nurture required for them to grow into people of character.

I truly believe that God has blessed York College for His purpose. Thank you again for your support and for investing in a place where young men and women prepare to be the Christ-centered leaders our homes, churches and communities so desperately need.

Sincerely,

H. Jarrell GibbsYork College Chairman of the Board

Board of TrusteesMr. H. Jarrell Gibbs

ChairmanHot Springs Village, AR

Mr. Patrick W. HendricksVice ChairmanTulsa, OK

Mr. Steven W. BeldenSecretaryLucas, TX

Mr. David F. LynnTreasurerYork, NE

Dr. Michael C. ArmourDallas, TX

Dr. Edward J. BaileyYork, NE

Dr. Jeffrey W. HannelLubbock, TX

Dr. E. LaVerne HaselwoodOmaha, NE

Dr. Jackie M. HumphreyAustin, TX

Mr. Chester M. JamesKingman, KS

Mr. Richard W. JamesWichita, KS

Dr. James R. LackieBaton Rouge, LA

Mr. Edward E. McLoudLeavenworth, KS

Mr. Norman E. MorrowSt. Francis, KS

Mr. Michael V. MyersLittleton, CO

Mr. Ed G. NillPierre, SD

Mrs. Cassandra R. SavageOverland Park, KS

Mrs. Carolyn R. StephensonLubbock, TX

Mr. Charles B. StephensonLubbock, TX

Mr. G. Wayne StudebakerNorfolk, NE

Mr. Paul E. TouchtonBrentwood, TN

Mr. Charlie J. WattsEudora, KS

Dr. R. Wayne WhiteCarrollton, TX

Dr. Gregory N. WoodsYork, NE

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The State of the CollegeInterview with Dr. Steve Eckman ’71 20th President of York College

It’s been five years since I was appointed president of York College. There have been many challenges and more blessings in these five years, but the most important thing I can tell you about York College today is that we are secure and that God is blessing this place richly.

Is York College still spiritually focused?

The mission of York College is to transform lives through Christ-centered education. I see that mission realized here every day.

It is one of the greatest joys of this job. It doesn’t always happen in obvious ways, with baptisms and public proclamations—though that does happen, too. Often you can see

student body rises to the occasion—whether it’s organizing fundraisers to end human trafficking or cleaning and painting at the local homeless shelter.

This is the most exciting generation of young people I’ve ever experienced. I can’t wait for them to take leadership of our churches and institutions. However, they need to be educated in the scripture to gain knowledge and judgment. That’s what we try to instill in each one while they are at York College.

Is York College financially stable?

Yes! I can say without hesitation that we are in a better place financially than we have been in

subtle changes in a student’s attitude and behavior as they are transformed over the course of their academic career by God working in this place.

Our student body has a challenge, though, and it’s one that many Christian schools are facing. It looks like this: 82 percent of young people going to college, nationwide, claim to be spiritual, yet less than 14 percent have ever read the Bible.

Many students come here with a general spirituality that is not based on any kind of theological system. They don’t have a grounding in scripture or a concept of absolute truth.

Having said that, students today in many ways are more spiritual than previous generations. Service and unity are incredibly important to them. Whenever there is a need, the

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Total Net AssetsTotal net assets of the college have grown 56% from 2007 to 2013.

$9.4M $14.7M

2007 2013

By the Numbers

In the BlackDespite a difficult economic period, under Eckman’s presidency York College has enjoyed five straight years in the black. The college has been blessed with a balanced budget every year since 2009.

York College Fund Annual GoalDebt restructuring and reduction, combined with budgetary restraint, have reduced the college’s annual budget gift revenue need from $1.77 million in the fall of 2009 to $950,000 in 2013.

$1.77M $.95M

2009 2013

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If there is one thing Saia Loutulelei is sure of, it’s that God wants him at York College. The heavyweight wrestler from Maui was desperate for one last

chance at college, having had two unsuccessful attempts already. After five years of working construction, he knew he needed a college education, but didn’t know where to go or how to pay for it. He prayed earnestly about it and a door opened—he was offered a scholarship to wrestle at York College.

“God provided for me,” says Saia. “I had an open heart. I was ready to embrace whatever God brought to me.” He came to York College prepared to do whatever it took to succeed academically and athletically.

Currently he is nationally ranked in his weight class in the NAIA. He came to YC as an accounting major, but after joining the concert choir, Saia realized his passion is music. He is now majoring in vocal music performance.

In addition to the influence of his coaches and professors, Saia says the culture at York College has helped him to triumph. He has a support network at York of people who are dedicated to his success, not just on the mat or in the classroom, but in life. ph

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photo by Chad Greene

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years. Giving recognition where it’s due, before I arrived, the Board made some tough budget choices and President Wayne Baker implemented many of those changes, significantly reducing expenditures. Much of the credit I have received as President is due to hard decisions made prior to 2009.

We still face fiscal challenges, but we are positioned for a sixth consecutive year with a balanced budget. God has done an amazing work here. Alumni and friends have been faithful in their support and my colleagues all across campus have worked and sacrificed to make this a

reality. We recently restructured our debt which saves us millions in the long run and reduces our annual debt service. Most important, our debt is the lowest it has been in a long time.

Breaking ground on the Campbell Center alongside Colis and Dolores was a tremendous honor.

What is the state of the endowment?

One of the things we need to do to secure our future is to continue to raise our endowment. Endowment is a safety net. A healthy endowment helps release some of the stress of day-to-day operations by providing a buffer.

Currently our endowment is at about $10 million. That means, due to our investment policy, there is about $400,000 of earnings each year that blesses our students.

We have a generous friend who has endowed two faculty chairs in the past five years. This allows us to pay the salary for two faculty members with money we don’t have to raise or charge students for. This is a huge blessing.

Due to many economic factors beyond York College, enrollment has decreased since our high point in 2011. Last fall we had 459 full-time students. Yet, I am pleased to report that this year for the first time, we had a budget surplus in the fall semester despite decreased enrollment. Continued fiscal discipline and debt reduction made this possible.

Through this process, we have reduced our annual budgeted gift requirement from $1.77 million in the fall of 2009 to about $950,000 this school year. Our goal is a more sustainable fiscal model with less dependence on gifts to balance the budget. The result is a stronger focus on improvements that advance the college, giving students a better experience and stronger preparation. York College is well poised for the future.


“This is the most exciting generation of young people I’ve ever experienced. I can’t wait for them to take leadership of our churches and institutions.”

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Alumni GivingOver the last five years, over a quarter of York College alumni have given to their alma mater.

26.1%

Endowment in MillionsOver the last five years, the endowment has increased 51%.

$6.6M $9.99M

2008 2013

By the Numbers

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After three trips to Haiti since the devastating earthquake in 2010, Kelsey Buglewicz has seen incredible growth as

the residents strive to rebuild. More remarkable than their progress is their joy and faith, says the education major from Omaha.

“A lot of people have this misconception that people who live in what we would consider poverty also don’t have faith or a relationship with God,” she says. The truth is just the opposite.

“I’m always so humbled when I go there because so many of them have such a strong faith. I learn so much from them.”

Over the recent winter break, Kelsey led a team of 10 current students and alumni on a trip to Port-au-Prince. She is already dreaming about the next trip to see her friends and continue the work in Haiti.

photos by Auston Tkaczuk

YC Students by MajorsEducation leads the majors of choice with 23% of the student body enrolled. Business follows with 20%, trailed by biology and psychology at 12% each.

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What recent improvements have been made to facilities?

In the last few years, we have invested in our physical campus to improve the student experience. The most high profile change is the new Colis and Dolores Campbell Student Activity Center. Other improvements aren’t as noticeable, but they are important, such as replacing the roof on nearly every building and fixing the brickwork on McGehee so the building is more structurally sound.

More visible improvements include classroom renovations in McGehee and Levitt that include the latest educational technology. We are adding classrooms to the basement of Middlebrook that will be unlike anything else on campus. The technology and layout of these classrooms will transform the way teaching and learning take place.

All of this renovation is done with an eye toward efficiency. Our goal is to keep expenses low, yet make the necessary improvements to campus, so that we can bless our students with the facilities they need and deserve while minimizing the cost of their education.

very constructive to hear the thoughts of others who have sat in this chair.

Each of them has a different perspective, yet there is a common thread running through it all. That thread is the unique contribution York College makes in the world. This college is here because the Churches of Christ wanted a school to serve the North-Central states. No YC leader has lost sight of that purpose, including me.

The life and legacy of Colis and Dolores Campbell is an inspiration to me. They gave 17 years to York College, serving in so many ways and impacting hundreds of young people. They never made much money working in ministry, but their spiritual wealth was immeasurable and they shared it generously. Because of their contributions, a donor chose to honor them by giving a building to York in their name.

Who are your York College role models?

One of the things I have enjoyed in this role is being able to connect with previous leaders as well as others who have had a positive impact on this place. I was able to

talk with Larry Roberts and Dale Larsen before they passed. I have talked with Gary Bartholomew, Garrett Baker, and Wayne Baker. It’s


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Steve’s attention to the needs of the students is key to his success as president of York College.

“God has done an amazing work here. Alumni and friends have been faithful in their support.”

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Economic ImpactAn independent analysis stated the economic impact of York College on York county was $25.2 Million annually.

$25.2M

By the Numbers

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Baseball brought Trevor Ramos to York from his home in California, where he had been attending a junior college. He

transferred in 2011 and joined the criminal justice program. Through the team and his classes, Trevor discovered that the Christ-centered education York College promised was delivered from day one.

Devotionals at baseball practice, spiritual mentoring from coaches and faculty, a focus on the field that went beyond the physical and a focus in the classroom that exceeded career preparation. His experience at YC has been about learning how to be a better man, he says.

“My life has changed here,” says Trevor who describes himself as a new Christian.

In addition to being a friend and mentor, Trevor says that Dr. Billy Lones, the bowtied head of the CJ program, is a remarkable teacher. “He really knows his stuff. He makes everything applicable, so it is always interesting.”

Trevor is currently applying for positions with police departments in Kansas where he and fiancé Katlyn Kynion, a recent YC grad, hope to settle.

photo by Trent Hinton ’02

photo by Chad Greene

Student Financial Aid Scholarships are crucial to helping York College be an option for as many students as possible. Total percentage of YC freshmen receiving institutional financial aid in the form of scholarships:

95%Home States Beginning with Nebraska at 32%, the remaining top five states represented in the 2014 YC student body are California, Texas, Colorado, Kansas and Missouri.

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Steve Eckman begins his tenure as York College president, January 18.

The Endowed Chair for the Performing Arts is established with a gift to the college of $1.25 million.

York College signs agreement with LearningHouse to pursue online coursework.

The Dale and Raylene Larsen Commons area is dedicated along with a showcase of the newly renovated dining hall.

2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014York College is named a Champions of Character institution and will repeat that honor the next three years.

The Wayne and Darlene Baker Fitness Center is dedicated as the newest athletic facility on campus

Colis and Dolores Campbell are the first inductees into the YC Athletic Hall of Fame.

Dr. Steven W. Eckman20th President of York College

The Roger Collins’ Endowed Chair for Business in the Elijah A. Levitt School of Business is announced.

2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

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2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014Over the last five years, enrollment has stabilized with an upward growth trend.

The spring semester of 2013 began with the dedication of the Campbell Center during chapel.

Brittany (Saylor ’08) Wiley is one of eleven students enrolled in the newly accredited Master of Arts in Education: Curriculum and Instruction program at York College Online.

A historic first: men’s basketball advances to the Sweet 16 and baseball makes it to the NAIA Baseball World Series.

Under the direction of Dr. Terence Kite, York College begins a 3/2 engineering program.

The accreditation process is begun with the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education (IACBE).

Endowment nears $10 Million, an increase of 51% over the last five years.

PANTHERS

Devon Teeple ’13 is among the first graduates to earn his Bachelor’s degree online.

A Music–Theater Center will be the lead campus initiative in the upcoming 125th anniversary campaign.

2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

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Today, our campus community gathers daily in that building for chapel.

What inspires me about that story is that Colis and Dolores didn’t set out to do something big, like put up a new building at YC. Instead, they served every day, in small ways, doing things that must have seemed mundane and unimportant at the time. Yet now, decades after they left YC, the impact of their service is still being felt. When we do what we ought to be doing and serve others with love, we can never tell what impact we will have on the future.

What’s next for YC?It is time for us to invest in

our future. The goal of upcoming fundraising efforts is to take us to another level of academic excellence, spirituality, and improved reputation.

One area we’ve started investing in more heavily is faculty. We have added seven highly qualified, full-time faculty members in the last five years. They are all spiritually focused individuals with a passion not just for their academic discipline, but for impacting young people for Christ.

Moving forward, we will increase our focus on academic areas where we excel, including business and the performing arts. The goal is to help

build a national reputation within these areas. We are working with an educational firm to energize our recruitment efforts in these areas through innovative, highly interactive experiences for potential students. Also, we are working on plans for a new music and drama facility. Everyone will hear much more about these plans very soon. It is an exciting time to be at York College!

We are also seeking international accreditation, separate from our regional accreditation, for the Levitt School of Business. Two areas of business are focusing on more intently are entrepreneurship and

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Steve knows firsthand the transformational power that York College has on students and is committed

to equipping them for lives of service.

“When we do what we ought to be doing and serve others with love, we can never tell what impact we will have on the future.”

sports management. We have great faculty members in place who are attracting lots of attention in these programs.

As we look to the future, my vision is that York College remains true to its purpose. We don’t want to experience growth at the expense of who we are. My goal is that we continue to improve the facilities, the faculty, the technology, and the student experience at York College, but in a way that continues to emphasize the transformation of our students’ hearts and minds and to equip them for lives of service to God, family, and society.

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For Brianna Bailey, hands-on experience and individual attention from faculty has made all the difference to the quality of

her education. The junior music education major has been singing and playing the violin since childhood. Even so, she was surprised at how challenging the music program at YC has been. “My teachers are always pushing me to be better,” she says.

As soon as she was ready, faculty members in the music department set her up with her own students in the community. She teaches voice and violin for five students, ranging from age 7 to 80. “It’s been a great way for me to gain experience, doing just what I want to do when I graduate,” she says.

One reason Brianna loves YC is the focus on the spiritual importance of art. “All music can be sacred, even if it doesn’t talk directly about God. When you create art, you can glorify God the Creator.”

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125th AnniversaryYork College begins its 125th

year of service in August 2014. It will be a time to commemorate our past, cast a vision for our future, recognize faithful partners and recommit to a heritage of faith and learning.

August 2014 through September 2015, the college will commemorate and honor our heroes of the past. We will especially celebrate the partnership between the York community and church leaders whose combined efforts led to the school’s 1956 transfer from the Evangelical United Brethren to the churches of Christ.

At the same time, a collection of initiatives have been developed focused on our future. Growing out of the college’s strategic plan, the 125th Anniversary Initiatives will reflect our Christian commitment and our aspirations moving forward.

York College exists because many faithful friends and alumni have partnered with us, some for more than 50 years. During our anniversary, we will recognize their uncommon commitment to our mission and the students we serve.

Since 1890, sacred matters have been at the heart of York College. The phrase “Christ-centered education” anchors our mission statement because it is the core of who we are and what we aspire to be. In this light, we will reaffirm our fundamental purpose as a school dedicated to God and His transformational work. This is our highest commitment as we prepare for our 125th year.

Dear Friends,

“One of the great tragedies of life is that we seldom bridge the gulf between doing and saying.” Martin Luther King, Jr.

York College has been changing lives through the power of Jesus for years. The fact that you picked up this publication likely means your life, like mine, was changed through some connection with YC.

When I visit with other alumni about their YC experience, the names of individuals who positively affected their life may change, but the stories remain the same. Many times the fond memories center

around a professor, dorm parent or coach. Other times they are about finding life-long friends or your future spouse (permanent best friend, as I like to call my wife Rachel). Of course, the best stories are those where people turned their life over to Jesus while roaming the campus of YC.

If you are like me, your desk is loaded with messages to return, your inbox is full to the brim and you need to be somewhere ten minutes ago. In all the hustle and bustle, I tend to forget the profound impact York College had on my life, and I know I’m not alone. All of us, alumni, parents and friends, forget the influence our school has had on more than 6,000 former students who are scattered around the globe. The effect is enormous and the work continues with new generations.

Rachel and I are committed to the future success of York College. We feel that President Steve Eckman is a blessing from God to take York College to new heights. The key to this success is the involvement of our alumni and friends. It is time for us to “bridge the gulf” between what we say about York College and what we do for York College.

• Are you praying for York College?• Are you encouraging the students in your church to attend York College or

offering them a ride to campus for High School days?• Have you included York College in your yearly budget so you can

consistently give?• Have you called or emailed your friends and asked them to pray for and give

to York College?

These small actions would have a huge impact if everyone who loves YC would join in.

In Micah 3:10, God challenges his people to test him by bringing their tithe to Him and then watch what he could do. I offer the same challenge to you. Let’s put our hearts, our efforts, and our dollars into York College and see what God can do.

For the Blue and White,

Richard James (YC ’97)Wichita, Kansas

“The mission of York College is to transform lives through Christ-centered education and to equip students for lifelong service to God, family and society.”

president report 2014

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