Cedarville Stories

Trusting God Through Tragedy: Melissa HarrisAs a Cedarville University graduate in athletic training, Melissa Harris '02 believed she had a clear calling — serve student-athletes and be a light for Christ through her profession. But God had an unexpected direction in mind, calling her instead into recreation ministry — a shift she hadn’t planned but embraced in faith.That same willingness to trust God when life took an unforeseen turn would become crucial when tragedy struck years later. During what was supposed to be a peaceful family hike in Hocking Hills State Park, a horrific accident nearly claimed the life of her youngest daughter, Mia.In an instant, the joy of the outdoors turned into a nightmare. As emergency crews raced to respond, Melissa and her family were left clinging to prayer, unsure if Mia would survive. Yet even in the chaos, Melissa describes a peace that defied logic. “There’s no explanation for it,” she shared on the Cedarville Stories podcast. “It was Jesus — He calmed my fears and reminded me of eternity.”The months that followed were filled with recovery, reflection, and raw faith. Melissa realized that their story wasn’t just about surviving trauma — it was about surrendering control and trusting God in every unknown. The same God who redirected her career path years earlier had now walked her through the darkest valley of her life.It was during this healing season that Melissa felt a quiet but clear prompting from God: Tell the story. Melissa wrote her book, Rewrite This Tragedy, not to spotlight tragedy, but to proclaim God’s presence during it. “Even if He hadn’t saved Mia,” said Melissa, “He was still with us. That’s what carried us.”Her story reminds us that faith isn’t about having a perfect plan — it’s about trusting the One who does.https://share.transistor.fm/s/4f0baf7chttps://youtu.be/Xh6UhtUBA2M 

Rooted in Truth: A Story of Two Shepherds and Their BookIt wasn’t over coffee or during a conference that the idea for Rooted in Truth was born — it grew slowly, quietly, over years of shared ministry. Drs. Jon Wood and Trent Rogers have been walking alongside college students for a long time, answering the same honest, heartfelt questions about faith, life, and purpose.After hearing “What should I do with my life?” and “Can I really trust the Bible?” for what seemed like the hundredth time, they both realized that maybe it was time to write a book.So, they did.On the Cedarville Stories podcast, the two men — friends, colleagues, and fellow shepherds — talked about the journey of writing Rooted in Truth, which was released on July 8. With a dose of humor (and some playful teasing), they shared how the project took shape. Rogers joked that he only wanted to co-write with someone smarter, which led him straight to Wood. In turn, Wood credited Rogers for bringing structure and depth to the project.But beneath the laughs was a serious and heartfelt purpose: helping young adults become spiritually grounded.The book tackles 20 of the most common questions they hear from students about identity, relationships, vocation, and why truth still matters. Drawing on Psalm 1, they use the imagery of a tree planted by water to show what happens when a life is rooted deeply in God’s Word. Whether it’s used as a devotional, a small group guide, or a resource for a high school senior on the edge of adulthood, Rooted in Truth was written to steady the hearts of young believers in a world that often feels unsteady.What sets this book apart? It’s clear, concise, and full of Gospel hope. It’s not lofty theology for scholars — it’s real answers for real students written by two men who first spent years listening.“We want them to know they’re not just the future of the Church,” Dr. Wood said. “They are the Church.”And with Rooted in Truth, Jon and Trent are handing them the tools — and the truth — to live like it.https://share.transistor.fm/s/c7cc4570https://youtu.be/tpQK3f7rPds

Side by Side: Ari and Julie Tompkins There’s something special about the bond between twins — but Ari and Julie Tompkins take it to a whole new level. This week, the small-town sisters from Mogadore, Ohio, began their 1000 Days™ at Cedarville University, walking into college hand-in-hand — just like they’ve done with most things in life.Faith-filled and full of heart, Ari and Julie are joining the track and cross-country teams, ready to give it all they’ve got. But they’re not just here to run races. They’re here to grow, serve, and walk closer with Jesus every step of the way.On a recent episode of the Cedarville Stories podcast, Julie described Ari as “quiet, aggressive, and humble,” while Ari grinned and said Julie was “talkative, energetic, and loud.” The sisters are two halves of a whole, different in their own ways but always cheering each other on.Their journey hasn’t been easy. They’ve stood on podiums and wiped away tears after photo-finish losses and struggled with personal family issues. But through every high and low, they’ve clung to prayer and each other. “Our sport doesn’t define us,” Ari shared. “God still loves us whether we win or lose.”Raised in a home where faith was lived out daily — especially after their father quit drinking and began reading the Bible with them — Ari and Julie learned early what it means to grow through grace. “It changed everything,” Julie said. “We finally understood what it meant to follow Jesus for ourselves.”That’s why Cedarville stood out. It was a place where they could not only compete at a high level but grow in a community that shares their love for Christ. “We didn’t want to just bring others to faith — we wanted to be surrounded by people already walking it too,” they said.Julie dreams of becoming a pro sports physical therapist. Ari’s heart is set on becoming a firefighter and EMT. Their paths may someday lead them in different directions, but for now, they’re running this race side by side — spiritually grounded, joyfully competitive, and ready for whatever the Lord has next.https://share.transistor.fm/s/13d7ae3dhttps://youtu.be/NTYeW_B6mFY

Shaping Christ-Centered LeadersAfter nearly four decades in banking — culminating in a role leading over 7,000 employees across 1,000 Huntington Bank branches—Jon Greenwood knows a thing or two about leadership. He didn’t just climb the corporate ladder; he built the culture beneath it, rooted in trust, consistency, and hard work. A self-proclaimed “overachiever,” Jon thrived by showing up, outworking everyone around him, and staying grounded in who he was in Christ.Now, he’s bringing that lifetime of experience back to where it all started — Cedarville University.Jon’s path to Cedarville wasn’t exactly planned. As a high school senior in Springfield, Ohio, he was bound for Taylor University — just like many of his family members. But through a series of unexpected twists, including a last-minute golf tournament and his pastor father’s connection to Cedarville University, he became a Yellow Jacket.  That seemingly small pivot shaped everything that followed — from his marriage to his professional life — and taught him to trust God’s guidance, even when it didn’t make sense.That trust became the foundation of Jon’s leadership style. Throughout his banking career, he focused on building cultures where people could thrive, trust mattered more than titles, and integrity trumped efficiency. Even to this day, he believes “culture eats strategy for lunch.”Now, Jon is pouring that wisdom into CU Lead, Cedarville’s new leadership initiative. It’s more than a program — it’s a movement. CU Lead will help college students and business leaders discover how God wired them. It reaches across disciplines — welcoming pastors, pharmacists, engineers, and teachers alike — because every field needs leaders who are anchored in character.CU Lead also opens doors to the marketplace through conferences, a speakers series, and practical partnerships with businesses. The goal? To produce graduates who are not only professionally competent but spiritually grounded — leaders who can be trusted with influence.Jon Greenwood’s story is a testament to what God can do with a life fully surrendered. And now, he’s helping others write their own stories — starting with who they are in Christ. He recently shared more about this journey on the Cedarville Stories podcast, offering listeners a behind-the-scenes look at the faith and leadership that have defined his path.https://share.transistor.fm/s/40a621bdhttps://youtu.be/-R_v_So-JKU

Fighting Infectious Diseases: Rachel BurgoonRachel Burgoon didn’t just choose pharmacy — she chose a mission. As an infectious disease pharmacist, her work is ministry through medicine. Every treatment she recommends is driven by a deep desire to serve others and honor Christ.Her journey began in Maryland but found clarity and calling at Cedarville University, where the integration of faith and science in Cedarville’s Doctor of Pharmacy program shaped her purpose.“It wasn’t just about becoming a pharmacist,” Rachel explains. “It was about becoming someone who could serve the Lord by serving patients — especially the most vulnerable.”Today, Rachel works in the high-stakes world of infectious diseases, tackling complex cases involving antibiotic stewardship and life-threatening infections. Her work demands both clinical precision and heartfelt compassion.“This is critical work,” she says. “If we don’t use the right therapies in the right way, we risk resistance and harm. It’s a space where science must be excellent — and so must our care.”Beyond her clinical responsibilities, Rachel invests deeply in mentoring students and residents — a passion born from her own experience.  She recalls Cedarville faculty pouring into her life as a student, and she desires to mirror that service with the people she interacts with each day.Recently, Rachel shared her story on the Cedarville Stories podcast, offering listeners a glimpse into the heart behind her profession — a heart committed to glorifying God through healing and hope.Through every patient she treats, every student she mentors, and every advancement she makes in infectious disease research, Rachel Burgoon is faithfully living out her calling to reflect Christ by caring for the sick with excellence and compassion.https://share.transistor.fm/s/aee80c17https://youtu.be/a1uqw7rYSd0 

Rocket Science and Redemption: Dr. Joe MillerIn a quiet town just outside Dayton, Ohio — where the history of aviation runs deep — Dr. Joe Miller’s journey took flight with a love for airplanes and a desire to serve God. As a high school student, deeply moved by the courage of missionary aviators and the powerful message of Elisabeth Elliot’s Through Gates of Splendor, Joe began to ask a bold, life-shaping question: How can I use engineering to glorify Christ and serve the world?That question became his compass, and God used it to guide him to Cedarville University — first as a student, then, years later, as a professor.After nearly two decades in aerospace — collaborating with the U.S. Air Force on advanced innovations and leading elite engineering teams — Joe had no plans to leave the field he loved. But when Cedarville called and God stirred his heart, he recognized a higher calling.“I had no desire to leave,” he recalls. “But I was called to something bigger — training the next generation of Christ-centered engineers.”For Dr. Miller, teaching is more than a profession — it’s a mission. He sees engineering not just as a discipline of problem-solving but as a calling to serve people, protect life, and steward creation. His classroom hums with purpose: a place where technical rigor meets Gospel clarity.His vision is clear: to mentor engineers who are technically excellent, spiritually grounded, and passionately committed to using their gifts for God’s glory. Through collaborations with organizations like Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Dr. Miller helps students connect classroom theory to real-world innovation — always with Christ at the center.“The Gospel,” Joe tells his students, “isn’t something we tack onto our careers — it’s the foundation. Everything flows from that.”Dr. Miller isn’t just instructing engineers. On this week’s episode of the Cedarville Stories podcast, hear how he’s shaping disciples — leaders who will carry light into launchpads, boardrooms, and beyond.https://share.transistor.fm/s/1a0ce2a2https://youtu.be/KwporBWAamQ

A Life of Yes: Dr. Craig and Carolyn Williford Dr. Craig and Carolyn Williford, Cedarville University’s 2025 Alumni of the Year, have walked a beautiful path of ministry — one paved with prayer, servant leadership, and steadfast faith. Their journey began in the 1970s at Cedarville, where their deep love for Christ and hearts to serve took root and began to flourish. Craig led with purpose and humility, serving as president of several Christian institutions — Denver Seminary, Trinity International University, Multnomah University, and Warner University. In each role, he brought wisdom, courage, and a deep dependence on God, shaping the next generation of leaders. By his side was Carolyn — ever encouraging, guiding, and caring for students and fellow leaders with remarkable grace. Through her authorship of multiple books and her powerful voice as a conference speaker, she enriched their shared ministry with her own godly wisdom. Their hearts have always been drawn to students.  “We always prayed for the students,” Carolyn shared gently. “But we had no idea what many were going through — illness, loss, financial hardship.” Those heartfelt prayers grew into a lifelong ministry of compassion that has followed them from season to season. In recent years, their focus has turned toward nurturing weary pastors. Especially after the pandemic, as ministry leaders faced growing stress and burnout, Craig and Carolyn stepped in to offer safe, welcoming spaces for them to rest and heal.  “There’s loneliness in ministry, even in large churches,” Craig noted. “We help leaders know they’re not alone.” Their marriage stands as a quiet testimony to God’s faithfulness — built on trust, mutual respect, and unshakable character.  “Craig does the right thing, no matter the cost,” Carolyn reflected. “That gift of integrity has been a foundation in our home and ministry.” Throughout their marriage, they’ve endeavored to say yes to the Lord and serve Him faithfully. That simple act of obedience has defined every step of their journey. Recently, Craig and Carolyn shared their story on the Cedarville Stories podcast — a tender, inspiring reminder of how God’s faithfulness weaves through every chapter of life. Their love for Cedarville, for each other, and for the calling God placed on their lives continues to shine brightly. https://share.transistor.fm/s/7196d921https://youtu.be/EWdF8HfeZf0 

Spring Break in Maui: A Trip of Compassion and CallingWhen wildfires swept through Lahaina, Maui, in 2023, they left more than ashes behind — they left a community in mourning. Homes were destroyed, lives were uprooted, and hope felt fragile. However, during a recent spring break, hope arrived in the form of a team of students and faculty from Cedarville University led by Col. (Ret.) Greg Thompson and Dr. Patrick Oliver.The idea began in a moment of connection. Greg, who had recently moved to Ohio from Hawaii, met Mark and Dawn Brown — Hawaiian parents of a Cedarville student — during Getting Started Weekend. What started as a conversation about community turned into something much bigger: an opportunity to serve.“I reached out to the Made In Hope ministry the Browns mentioned and learned they had enough room for our group,” Greg shared. “We slept on cots — five-star location, one-star accommodations — but it was perfect.”That setting became the base for a week of powerful ministry. The team didn’t just come to rebuild homes or pass out supplies — the needs had shifted. Instead, they got to rebuild hearts. Through prayer, presence, and listening, the students poured into a hurting community.“It wasn’t just physical work,” Greg said. “It was about being there — about showing the love of Christ in a place that desperately needed comfort.”What the team gave may seem simple, but it left a deep impact: game nights with families, worship with locals, and heartfelt conversations with those still grieving. It was a reminder that healing isn’t always measured in walls rebuilt but in souls encouraged.And the work isn’t finished. As Mark Brown shared, “There will be many stages of recovery — prayer, rebuilding, financial support. But God has been faithful.”Cedarville’s team was a living testimony to that faithfulness. Through simple acts of service, they brought the message that Lahaina is not forgotten — by them or by the God who walks with them.Learn more about this labor of love on this week’s episode of the Cedarville Stories podcast.https://share.transistor.fm/s/bc2e13a7https://youtu.be/p_17V2TPdGg

Cedarville’s Connection to Maui’s HealingWhen wildfires tore through Maui in August of 2023, they left behind a trail of devastation — homes lost, lives uprooted, and hearts heavy with grief. For Mark and Dawn Brown, longtime Maui residents and faithful servants in their local ministry, the fire hit close to home — literally and spiritually. But even in the darkest smoke, God’s light came shining through.Mark and Dawn, who both have deep roots with Cedarville University, shared their experiences during the 2023 Maui fire on this week’s episode of the Cedarville Stories podcast.The Browns are proud alumni, and their daughter Lila is a current student. Cedarville has always been more than just their alma mater — it’s part of their extended family. So when a team of 14 Cedarville students, along with professors Col. (Ret.) Greg Thompson and Dr. Patrick Oliver, landed in Maui to help, it wasn’t just a service trip — it was a homecoming of sorts.The students came with no agenda but love, no plan but to serve.“We’ll do whatever you need,” they told the Browns — and they meant it. They painted, cleaned, hauled, prayed, and, most of all, stood in the gap alongside hurting people.Mark, who serves on a federal disaster medical team, has responded to tragedies all over — from New York City to Key West to Saipan. Years ago, his young daughter Lila once asked him why he did it. He told her, “Someday, we’re going to need help too — and I want people to come.”That moment came. And people came — wearing Cedarville blue and gold.For the Browns, it was a humbling reminder that the body of Christ truly works. God didn’t just send help — He sent family. And in the ashes of disaster, they saw grace rebuild what flames had taken.https://share.transistor.fm/s/d0d9de26https://youtu.be/CkVMEG5h1Cc

Engineering Hope: Ken Atkinson and Brian ReiffIn the heart of rural Zimbabwe, where roads often wash away during the rainy season and clean water is scarce, a powerful partnership has formed — one that blends innovation with compassion. Faculty and students from Cedarville University’s School of Engineering and Computer Science have teamed up with Karanda Mission Hospital to tackle these serious infrastructure issues while creating opportunities for ministry.The collaboration began when former missionary Ken Atkinson, now a Cedarville engineering lab technician, returned from Karanda with a heavy heart and a hopeful vision. The hospital faced severe water shortages and needed help.Cedarville students rose to the occasion. They engineered a small-scale municipal water treatment plant, creating a system that could purify river water and save lives — especially in a region where wells had run dry.But the mission didn’t stop with water. Seeing how local roads were often impassable, Cedarville students, including recent graduate Brian Reiff, designed and built a pull grader — a massive earthmover that attaches to Karanda’s tractor. What began as a senior design project quickly became a symbol of how technical skills can serve a greater purpose.More than just technical accomplishments, these projects are shaping lives. Students who once saw themselves working in labs or offices are now exploring how their skills can be used in missions. Some are even preparing to return to Karanda long-term.From clean water to better roads, from Ohio to Zimbabwe, this collaboration proves that engineering can be a ministry — solving physical problems while planting seeds of hope.Listen to this story of hearts and minds united for a cause greater than themselves on this week’s Cedarville Stories podcast.https://share.transistor.fm/s/81f4fd7chttps://youtu.be/Dy3tcM4bcBU

A Lifelong Song of Service: John and Lou Ann MohlerJohn and Lou Ann Mohler’s story began on the campus of Cedarville University, where a Michigan girl met an Ohio boy in concert chorale. What started with a warm February day, a convertible ride to the Indian Mound, and a first date filled with talk of old girlfriends (John’s idea of charm, perhaps?) bloomed into a 46-year marriage built on shared faith, music, and ministry.After college, the Mohlers began their careers as teachers — John directing bands and orchestras and Lou Ann teaching English and drama. But as their hearts leaned more toward church ministry, God led them to Patterson Park Church in Dayton, Ohio. In 1985, John stepped into a pastoral role, and what began as a small church of about 200 has flourished under their leadership.For 40 years, John has faithfully directed worship, blending hymns with modern praise songs in a way that draws generations together. With a full choir and orchestra — a rarity these days — the Mohlers have crafted a worship experience that is both reverent and joyful.Their legacy isn’t just in music or programs — it’s in the people. From small groups to mission trips to Albania, from raising their children in the church to mentoring younger pastors, John and Lou Ann have cultivated community all their lives. Even as retirement nears, John continues to teach future worship leaders, ensuring that what he’s helped build will endure.In a fast-moving world, the Mohlers have been a steady presence — faithful, humble, and full of grace. And for those at Patterson Park, their legacy is more than music — it’s love lived out loud.Learn more about this couple’s amazing journey on the Cedarville Stories podcast.https://share.transistor.fm/s/070bb0dahttps://youtu.be/CqDD4krljeE

Matt Black: The Road to House of DavidCedarville University junior Matt Black is living proof that storytelling — when fueled by faith and purpose — can open extraordinary doors. A broadcasting, digital media, and journalism major, Matt is the founder of Matt Black Media and a rising force in performance photography. But his latest endeavor has taken him from concert stages to biblical epic: he’s joined the Wonder Project team for House of David, a dramatic series created by Jon Erwin (Jesus Revolution) and now streaming on Amazon Prime Video.Matt brings more than technical skill to the set — he brings heart. His journey started in 2018 at Word of Life camps in New York, where his camera and his calling first intersected.  That passion deepened during his time as a student media supervisor at Word of Life Institute, where he saw how visual storytelling could serve ministry.Since enrolling at Cedarville, his impact has only grown. In 2023, a spontaneous “yes” to photograph Winter Jam in Tampa, Florida, became a defining moment. Since then, Matt has worked with artists like Crowder, Lecrae, Danny Gokey, and For King and Country. His content has reached thousands through social media and promotional campaigns — each image a message of hope.Now, as part of House of David, Matt helps bring Scripture to life on screen, using his visual gifts to illuminate truth for a global audience. On the Cedarville Stories podcast, he urges young creatives to “embrace opportunities and say yes.” Clearly, he’s done exactly that.https://share.transistor.fm/s/4684384fhttps://youtu.be/SPH4Ceh9aIY

Cam Arminio’s Full-Court Mission: More Than Just a Game At Cedarville University, Cam Arminio is known for helping students get ready for life after graduation. As the Associate Director of Career Services, he coaches them through résumé prep, mock interviews, and LinkedIn tips — all with the heart of someone who truly wants to see others succeed.  From Day One to Day 1,000, Cam is in their corner. But there’s another side to Cam’s story — one that plays out on the basketball court. Listen to his encouraging interaction with the game on this week’s Cedarville Stories podcast. Cam has loved basketball his whole life. Back in high school, it was his identity. But when he became a Christian at 17, everything changed. What once took center stage became a way to serve something bigger. And today, he’s using that same game to point others to Christ through the Cedarville Basketball Ministry. Each Sunday during the school year, dozens of students gather to play. Some come for the love of the game, others are fueled by the adrenaline rush of competition — but all of them find more than they expected. At halftime, Cam and his group of student leaders pause to share something lasting: the message of Jesus. It’s not flashy. It’s not forced. It’s just real people connecting through a shared love for basketball and encountering something deeper along the way. During the week, those connections continue through Bible studies, as student leaders follow up with guys they’ve met on the court. The goal is simple: to reach young men who may not be ready for church pews but will show up to play. And once they’re there, to open a door to faith and friendship. Looking ahead, Cam has big plans. More events off campus. New ways to connect. And even a Global Outreach trip to the Czech Republic in 2026 — carrying on the legacy of Coach Don Callan by using basketball to share the Gospel overseas. For Cam and the team, it all comes down to this: meaningful competition, Gospel-centered outreach, and life-giving community. Because sometimes, the court is where the real ministry begins. https://share.transistor.fm/s/7575329bhttps://youtu.be/CZbA05jExcQ

Biblical Truth for Little Hearts: Dr. Kevin JonesDr. Kevin Jones knows that time is a gift — and he’s not about to waste a minute of it.From his early years teaching Sunday school to now leading the School of Education and Social Work at Cedarville University, Dr. Jones has always seen education as a mission field. With conviction, he knows that “Man cannot live on bread alone, but on every word of the Scripture.” (Matthew 4:4)That belief is the heartbeat behind everything he does.Recently, Dr. Jones poured his heart into the Armor of God Bible, a children’s Bible published by Thomas Nelson. After reading hundreds of storybooks and listening closely to the insightful questions of his own children, Kevin penned over 500 notes and 50 devotions. Each one is designed to help young readers — and their families — see how God's truth weaves through every page of Scripture, from Genesis to Revelation.“Kids have the best questions,” Kevin says with a chuckle, “and somebody’s got to answer them.” His prayer? That the students trained at Cedarville would go out and teach those answers in every town, every church, and every corner of the globe.Dr. Jones isn’t just shaping educators; he’s cultivating eternal impact. One student, one classroom, and one child at a time.You can hear more about Kevin’s story, his work on the Armor of God Bible, and how to make each day count for Christ on this week’s Cedarville Stories podcast. It’s a reminder to all of us: Time is short, but when we use it to glorify God, its impact lasts forever.https://share.transistor.fm/s/baf5f5bfhttps://youtu.be/hvfpomWCmzo

Courtroom Calling: Col. Greg Thompson and Katie BakerPractice may not always make perfect, but at Cedarville University, it launches futures. The University’s mock trial team is preparing students for legal careers and inspiring them to model the love of Christ in the courtroom.Colonel (Ret.) Greg Thompson, a 20-year veteran of the U.S. Air Force Judge Advocate General’s (JAG) Corps, brought his extensive legal background to Cedarville as a Professor of Criminal Justice. With experience in criminal prosecution, defense, and national security law — as well as time coaching mock trial at the U.S. Air Force Academy — he was well-equipped to launch the University’s mock trial program.One of the first students on the team was Katie Baker, a passionate social work major who found her calling in the courtroom.Katie, now heading to the University of Akron School of Law, first stepped into the world of legal advocacy through Cedarville’s new mock trial team. Inspired by her internship in children’s services, she witnessed firsthand the heartache — and hope — found in family law. Her drive to stand in the gap for hurting children and families only deepened through the team.Mock trial at Cedarville is more than competition. It’s a training ground for future advocates built on biblical truth and a commitment to excellence. Students wrestle through 250-page case files, face unpredictable courtroom twists, and stand with poise, shaped by Col. Thompson’s guidance and reminders that every courtroom mirrors the deeper truth that Christ stands as our advocate.Though the team didn’t claim a championship trophy this year, they competed with heart against top-tier programs — and earned respect for both their skill and the faith that underpins it.In just two seasons, Cedarville’s mock trial team has built an extraordinary legacy where faith meets advocacy and students like Katie step boldly into the future.Hear Katie and Col. Thompson share the team’s formative and funny stories on this week's episode of the Cedarville Stories podcast.https://share.transistor.fm/s/d8a69d2chttps://youtu.be/twmISdeAsJk

From Cuba to Cedarville: David Molina’s Journey of Faith and FreedomDavid Molina walks the campus of Cedarville University with a sense of wonder and gratitude. As a freshman majoring in nursing, his path here wasn’t just unlikely — it was miraculous. Born and raised in Cuba, one of the world’s last remaining Communist nations, David never imagined he’d one day study in a place where professors speak freely about Jesus Christ.But that’s exactly where God led him.David and his brother, Pablo, now hold the unique distinction of being the first Cuban-born students at Cedarville. Their arrival in Ohio is a testimony to God's providence and the remarkable journey of a family who followed Him at every turn — no matter the cost.Hear more about this family’s amazing journey on the Cedarville Stories podcast.David’s parents first encountered the Gospel through a missionary who was never supposed to be in Cuba. That encounter sparked a spiritual revolution in their hearts — one that would lead both to years of threats and government pressure but also to bold church planting and missionary work in Cuba, then Ecuador, and ultimately in the United States.After years of faith-filled perseverance, a surprise visa opportunity opened a door they never expected. The same missionary who first shared the Gospel with David’s parents — now planting Hispanic churches in Ohio — sponsored their move to the U.S.It’s a story only God could have written.At Cedarville, David is thriving in a Christ-centered environment that has ignited his love for learning like never before. More than academics, he treasures the freedom to speak openly about his faith and to worship without fear. He knows the cost of that freedom all too well.With a heart stirred by gratitude and a passion for service, David is preparing for a life in medical missions, possibly returning to Cuba one day to care for the physical and spiritual needs of his people. In the meantime, he’s active in Columbus, helping his family reach the local Hispanic community for Christ. He’s also rallying other Spanish-speaking Cedarville students to join in that mission.David Molina’s story is not just one of escape — it's one of calling. From Communist Cuba to the classrooms of Cedarville, he is walking proof that when God leads, even the most unlikely journey becomes a road to purpose and freedom.https://share.transistor.fm/s/d0c52c37https://youtu.be/vX5CnIh2c7g

Twins, Talent, and Testimony: The Forensics Team’s Journey at CedarvilleIf you wander down the halls of Cedarville University’s communication building, you might hear echoes of passionate conversations, bursts of laughter, or a well-timed, dramatic pause. It’s not a theatre troupe or a sermon prep class — it’s the beating heart of Cedarville’s forensics team. No, not fingerprints and crime scenes. This kind of forensics is competitive speech and debate: a battlefield of ideas, storytelling, and the art of persuasion.At the helm is Eric Mishne — part coach, part professor, and all in when it comes to investing in students. With years of experience and a deep passion for communication, Mishne believes forensics is more than a competition. It’s about great communicators telling truth — it’s about critical thinkers, creative spirits, and storytellers who can weave narratives as enrapturing as a front-porch tale on a summer night.Follow the story of Cedarville’s winning team on this week’s episode of the Cedarville Stories podcast.This year, Cedarville’s team didn’t just show up — they soared, bringing home both state and national titles. Their victories weren’t only measured in trophies but in something far deeper.Among the standouts were two freshman twins from Colorado Springs — Cara and Zane Enos. They've been sharpening their minds and practicing their skills together for nearly a decade. Yes, they’ve had their sibling squabbles, but they’ve also learned something essential: to love one another and to love God above all else. That, says Coach Mishne, is the real secret to their success.Cara and Zane were drawn to the University by the warmth of Cedarville’s spiritual life and its daily chapel. They found a home where faith and intellect walk hand in hand and a family of believers who live out their calling on every stage, every tournament, and through every word spoken.The team brought more than eloquence to the platform. Their speeches, while sharp and smart, carried something unique — hope. They honored God, not glamor. They offered truth, not trends. And people noticed. One young man, intrigued by the grace in their words and the difference in their demeanor, found the greatest victory of all through the team’s winsome witness: salvation.So yes, Cedarville's forensics team tells stories — but this year, they became one. A story of excellence. Of unity. Of twin talents and team triumphs. And most of all, a story where every round pointed not to themselves, but to the Author of all things.https://share.transistor.fm/s/463a28e3https://youtu.be/vlDY1ONKEuo

A Return With Purpose: Dr. Bob Lutz’s New Chapter at CedarvilleDr. Bob Lutz’s journey starts in the quiet stretch between Noblesville and Anderson, Indiana. He grew up in a pastor’s home, where faith was woven into everyday life — where church softball games and pickup basketball shared space with Scripture and community. It was there, in the ordinary rhythms of life, that Bob first encountered the extraordinary grace of God.When it came time to choose a college, Cedarville University rose to the top. Not just for its academics but for something deeper: a place where biblical truth and real community came together in a meaningful way. That draw — of faith, purpose, and belonging — was strong. And it set Bob on a path that’s now come full circle.Today, Bob has stepped into a new role as Vice President for Strategic Initiatives at Cedarville. For him, it’s more than a title — it’s an opportunity to help guide a university he deeply believes in. One of his key focuses is expanding online programs, and although some might wonder if going digital risks losing the heart of what makes Cedarville special, Bob doesn’t see it that way.He’s talked to students, listened closely, and what he’s heard has only strengthened his resolve. They know the value of being on campus, but they also see how an online experience — when done well — can still carry the same Cedarville DNA: academic excellence, biblical grounding, and intentional community.What gives him the greatest hope? It’s the same thing that drew him to Cedarville in the first place — the belief that God works powerfully through simple, faithful things: the teaching of His Word and the relationships formed around it.With that in mind, Dr. Bob Lutz has stepped into his new role full of vision, grounded in tradition, and confident that God will continue doing extraordinary things through Cedarville’s ordinary, faithful work.Hear directly from Bob’s heart on this week’s episode of the Cedarville Stories podcast.https://share.transistor.fm/s/fa282d22https://youtu.be/PRhom-s_Fug

From the Heartland to High Places: How Two Cedarville Graduates Are Launching Their DreamsAs nearly two million students prepare to turn their tassels and step into the unknown, there are a few whose paths seem guided not just by their own hard work, but by something deeper — faith, community, and calling. Two such students are David Reid and Emily Wollschlager, proud members of the Cedarville University class of 2025.David Reid from Columbus, Ohio, always had a knack for problem-solving and a passion for service. It was no surprise to anyone who knew him when he declared his major in cyber operations. Nor was it a surprise when, before the ink had even dried on his diploma, he had already accepted a prestigious offer from the United States Department of Defense.Not far behind him, Emily Wollschlager from Fredericksburg, Virginia, charted her own trailblazing path. A computer science major with a keen eye for detail and a warm spirit, she’s headed to Microsoft as a technology consultant, blending her love for coding with a heart for connecting people and purpose.But if you ask either of them what really prepared them for these roles, you won’t hear buzzwords or corporate speak. You'll hear about Cedarville University.Their 1000 Days at Cedarville were filled with more than just lectures and late-night study sessions. They found mentors in their professors, lifelong friends in the residence halls, and an unshakable foundation in their faith. Small class sizes allowed them to be known, and the Christ-centered curriculum reminded them daily that their future was in God’s hands.Though both are headed to the bustling metro areas around Washington, D.C., they carry with them the simple truths they learned in the quiet corners of campus: hard work honors God, integrity matters, and no dream is too big when it’s built on the right foundation.So, while many graduates are still asking “what’s next?”, David and Emily are already answering that question — with courage, character, and a whole lot of Cedarville heart.https://share.transistor.fm/s/f7e2103fhttps://youtu.be/2yX3xX6JY1k

A Place To Call HomeBryn, Reyna, and Erin Golson have always known that “home” isn’t just a spot on a map — it’s where your family is and where your roots grow deep even when planted in foreign soil. The three sisters grew up hand-in-hand in the small town of Knysna on the southern coast of South Africa. As missionary kids, they learned early that family is more than just important — it’s everything.Hear their story of finding home through family and faith on this week’s episode of the Cedarville Stories podcast.The sisters’ parents moved to South Africa from Florida to launch a Christian radio station, only to have the door close before it could even open. But in true Golson fashion, they didn’t quit — they found new ways to serve. Through church planting, teaching, and simple, Christlike friendship, the Golsons poured out love in a land far from their American beginnings. The girls soaked up the warmth of the South African culture, learning to slow down, listen, and love their neighbors well.Years later, returning to the United States was jarring. Grocery stores felt like massive shopping malls, and everything moved too fast. But when everything else felt unfamiliar, the sisters had each other, and they had Cedarville University. With family friends on the faculty and a strong community of fellow missionary and third culture kids, Cedarville felt like a soft landing place. Its unwavering commitment to God and His Word made it a natural choice for the Golsons.Though they miss the ocean air of Knysna, their parents, and the life they once knew, the sisters have found peace. In the laughter of shared stories, leaning on each other through the hard days, and growing deeper in their faith, they’ve found something beautiful: a new kind of home.And for the sisters, Cedarville isn’t just a stop along the way — it’s part of their story. It’s home.https://share.transistor.fm/s/76ce734chttps://youtu.be/P1zpfSf9mRw