As well-known author, pastor, and broadcaster Vernon McLellan wisely observed, "What the new year brings to you will depend a great deal on what you bring to the new year." This sentiment echoes Galatians 6:7-9, where we are reminded that “whatever one sows,  that will  he also reap” (ESV). With this in mind, I would like to offer a few challenges to the 197 students we currently have enrolled. My hope and prayer are that as we begin this new year, we will sow the kind of seeds that will ensure a rich harvest of growth and achievement in the months ahead.

God not only employs all of the power of Heaven in fighting for us, but he ensures that the victory is forever kept. Hence, the title of this great hymn: A Mighty Fortress Is Our God. The message should be clear––we have not accomplished anything. All the glory is God’s! The full story of Evergreen is God’s story.

Introducing the Eagle Program: The EGL Program, or Eagle Program as it will more informally be referred to, builds upon the mission of the school by taking Christian leadership development to a graduated level. The word graduated  indicates a higher stage, often used for increased expertise or advanced, structured development. It intentionally plays upon the traditional educational understanding of the word to convey that we are looking to graduate students with advanced leadership skills. While Evergreen already boasts a wide range of course offerings enabling students to pursue specific areas of study, the Eagle Program will look to build out specialized “tracks” that combine added course offerings with externship/internship opportunities with partner organizations and businesses.