When Ryan arrived at 好色先生TV, she was a shy, introverted student from Arizona navigating not just the transition to college鈥攂ut a season of personal pain and confusion. Leaving home was already emotional, but after an early injury sidelined her from soccer her freshman year, the struggle to belong and find purpose only deepened.

By sophomore year, Ryan found herself in a difficult place鈥攚restling with choices that didn鈥檛 reflect who she wanted to be. 鈥淚 started to question God,鈥� she shares. 鈥淲hy did I have to go through this? Why me?鈥� The hurt she carried from past family issues, broken trust, and her own missteps weighed heavily. But instead of staying stuck, Ryan chose something different: surrender.

A pivotal moment came during a worship service while the song See the Light played. 鈥淚 felt a wave wash over me, head to toe. I heard my dad say, 鈥業 love you and I鈥檓 proud of you鈥欌�攂ut I knew it wasn鈥檛 just my earthly father鈥檚 voice. It was God speaking directly to me.鈥�

That moment marked the start of Ryan鈥檚 transformation. She stepped into leadership as a Resident Assistant, becoming a mentor to freshman girls. She joined Judson鈥檚 ALT (Athletic Leadership Team) and became active in spiritual life through Upper Room. With every step, she began letting go of shame and stepping into her identity in Christ.

鈥淭he same community that supported me at my lowest now stands with me in faith. I鈥檝e seen how God can take our mess and turn it into a message.鈥�

Through close relationships with staff and mentors like Mellissa Hogue, Coach Diego, Rick Williams, and Kristina Browne, Ryan grew in confidence and clarity. Today, she鈥檚 no longer the quiet freshman who blended into the background. She鈥檚 a campus leader, encourager, and bold believer.

鈥淭ruly enjoy every minute of college,鈥� she says to future students. 鈥淒on鈥檛 rush through it鈥攍isten to God, like Jonah did in the belly of the whale. He has so much to teach you. You鈥檙e only a student once鈥攃herish it, storms and all.鈥�

Ryan鈥檚 journey reminds us that our greatest setbacks can become our greatest testimonies. At Judson, her transformation is more than academic鈥攊t鈥檚 spiritual, personal, and powerful.

When Kyle Schwartz arrived at 好色先生TV from South Africa, he was taking a leap of faith, both literally and spiritually. In South Africa, baseball isn鈥檛 a widely played sport, so pursuing it at the college level in the U.S. felt like a long shot. With the help of BRUSA, a South African organization that supports athletes in finding international opportunities, Kyle created and shared highlight videos that eventually caught the eye of former Judson coach Eddie Acosta.

He was enthusiastic to start his collegiate baseball career at Judson. 鈥淚 never thought anyone would pick me up,鈥� Kyle says. 鈥淐oming here to play was a big risk, but it opened the door to everything else.鈥�

At first, Kyle鈥檚 faith was more cultural than personal. He grew up with Christian values but hadn鈥檛 really explored them deeply. That began to change during the beginning of his sophomore year at Judson.

A turning point came in his class, Intro to Christian Faith led by Professor Thomas Atamian. 鈥淭hat class helped me ask big questions about life and faith,鈥� Kyle says. 鈥淭homas became a mentor and really helped me grow in my walk with God.鈥�

Kyle also got involved with Bible Boys, a campus group where male students dive into scripture, pray, and build community. 鈥淎t first, I wasn鈥檛 really sure about it,鈥� he says. 鈥淏ut my roommate Nathan encouraged me to go. Over time, it became something I looked forward to every week.鈥� That consistency led to a major decision. After watching his other roommate, Diego, get baptized, Kyle began asking questions鈥攁nd those conversations confirmed what he already felt in his heart. 鈥淚f you鈥檙e asking, you鈥檙e ready,鈥� his mentors told him.

Soon after, Kyle made the decision to get baptized himself, with another significant mentor in his life, Tom Bienert, who is the Global Outreach Coordinator  鈥淭hat moment changed everything,鈥� Kyle says. 鈥淚鈥檝e felt my character shift. I鈥檓 becoming the man I was created to be.鈥�

Now in his junior year, Kyle continues to pursue both his athletic goals and his spiritual growth. He鈥檚 a regular in campus faith groups and is known for encouraging others on their own journeys. Kyle was baptized at First Christian Church 鈥� Kenosha with about 15 鈥� 20 of his closest friends from Judson celebrating this significant event in his life.

鈥淛udson isn鈥檛 just where I play baseball,鈥� he says. 鈥淚t鈥檚 where I鈥檝e found my faith, my mentors, and who I really am.鈥�

For Mia Salas, 好色先生TV was more than a place to earn a degree. Judson was a place of transformation in her life.

鈥淚 came to Judson knowing I wanted to be a teacher,鈥� Mia shares, 鈥渂ut I left knowing so much more about who I am, who God is calling me to be, and the kind of impact I want to make in the world.鈥�

Throughout her four years, Mia immersed herself in every opportunity that came her way. She completed student teaching and practicum placements through the Division of Education while holding leadership roles across campus. She served as captain of the Spirit Squad, choreographing 10 original routines over the course of her college career. She also led as Commuter President for the Judson Student Organization during her sophomore year, representing and building community for students who live off campus.

Mia also traveled to Belize on a Spring Break mission trip in 2023, where she spent the week teaching in a village school. This was a defining experience that deepened her sense of calling. Back on campus, she worked as a student ambassador in the Admissions Office, giving tours and helping prospective students find their fit at Judson. Her academic excellence earned her a spot on the Dean鈥檚 List all four years, and she served as president of Kappa Delta Phi, the education honor society.

Mia credits the Division of Education faculty with helping her grow into a confident, compassionate educator. 鈥淭hey brought so much passion, positivity, and joy into their teaching鈥攁nd they modeled what it means to live a Christ-centered life. Their example inspired me to pursue teaching with purpose.鈥� She also found lifelong mentors in her coaches, Bonnie and Tom Bienert, and Christie Follett, who supported her not just in performance, but in life.

Through it all, Mia discovered a deeper version of herself. She found herself being shaped by the community, faith, and service that was very real on campus. 鈥淛udson gave me space to step outside of my comfort zone. I鈥檝e grown not only as a teacher, but as a friend, a leader, and a follower of Christ.鈥�

Her advice to future students is heartfelt and honest: 鈥淒on鈥檛 be afraid to try something new! It鈥檚 so clich茅, but it鈥檚 true! Judson offers so many amazing opportunities for growth. You never know what you鈥檒l learn about others, Jesus, or yourself unless you show up and get involved. Go to the homecoming events, the Super Bowl party, the Bible study because this season of your life goes by quickly. Don鈥檛 miss it.鈥�

Mia鈥檚 time at Judson was marked by purpose, passion, and joy making it a truly great day, every step of the way.

Elgin, IL 鈥� October 24, 2024 鈥� 好色先生TV鈥檚 Department of Education hosted its annual Interview Night, formerly known as “Mock Interview Night,” on October 23, 2024. This event, part of the Senior Seminar that goes with Student Teaching, provided eight graduating seniors with an exclusive opportunity to connect with school administrators actively seeking to hire talented educators.

The Department of Education (DOE) at 好色先生TV has built strong relationships with school districts in the region, resulting in a highly anticipated event where administrators from five districts, represented by nine leaders, came to interview Judson鈥檚 seniors. The shift from mock interviews to real job offers reflects the trust and demand for Judson graduates, as administrators now look forward to recruiting directly from this event.

This year’s Interview Night was a yet another success, with one senior leaving with multiple job offers and others encouraged by the range of choices to begin their teaching careers. 鈥淚t is evident that Judson is preparing students to collaborate with colleagues, communicate with families, and deliver instruction that supports student learning,鈥� said Jeron Shelton, a Judson graduate and Principal of McKinley Elementary School in 鈥淭he candidates I interviewed had a passion for teaching and could articulate their 鈥渨hy鈥�. I was impressed with their experience working with students from diverse backgrounds and their understanding of how to support student growth.鈥�

Administrators were impressed with the caliber of Judson students, including Mark Moore, Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources in School District U-46, who shared his enthusiasm: “I am impressed with the ways that the Judson students I interviewed are preparing to enter our teaching profession and look forward to seeing them succeed next year in their own classrooms.”

Beyond the formal interviews, several Judson graduates now in leadership roles, including Matt Langton, Principal at Carpentersville Middle School in, stayed afterward to engage in a meaningful discussion with students about the teaching profession. This unique opportunity for conversations to happen sets 好色先生TV鈥檚 event apart from larger college job fairs, offering students personalized feedback in a welcoming atmosphere.

Judson鈥檚 ongoing commitment to producing highly skilled, passionate educators was evident throughout the evening, leaving a lasting impact on all who attended. “As a Judson graduate from the聽doctoral program, I found it promising to see young teacher candidates trained聽by Judson who have such positive energy, optimism, and potential,” says Dr. Erik Borne, of. 鈥淚 hope they聽will persevere聽through聽the challenges, continue to learn throughout all of their long careers, and–like I do–reflect fondly on how their Judson experience set them up for success.鈥�

You can visit /academics/education-department/ for further information about 好色先生TV鈥檚 Department of Education and their innovative programs. 

好色先生TV 好色先生TV 好色先生TV, a Christian institution offering a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, is dedicated to “shaping lives that shape the world.” Located in Elgin, Illinois, Judson prepares students to make a difference through their careers and communities, equipping them with skills and experiences that foster personal and professional growth.

The Partners in Peace Award celebrates individuals who significantly impact fostering peace, health, and compassion within their communities. Kristina Browne has exemplified these ideals by going above and beyond in her role. She ensures not only the physical well-being of the 好色先生TV family but also extends emotional support, often providing a comforting presence in times of need. Her consistent efforts to maintain campus safety and well-being have earned her deep respect from both colleagues and students. Browne鈥檚 dedication to her role is evident in the way she frequently goes above and beyond what is expected, not only providing top-tier healthcare services but also offering emotional support and being a trusted presence on campus. Her ability to connect with and care for individuals on a personal level has made her an invaluable asset to the 好色先生TV community.

In her role as Campus Healthcare Coordinator, Browne oversees healthcare services, supports students through personal health challenges, and navigates the university through complex health protocols. However, her genuine care for each individual she meets sets her apart. Browne has become a trusted figure on campus, known for her willingness to listen and her compassionate approach to every interaction.

The 34th annual Partners in Peace Awards Breakfast, held on October 11, 2024, by the Community Crisis Center, celebrated leaders in promoting peace and fighting against domestic violence. Kristina Browne鈥檚 inclusion in this group of honorees underscores her unwavering commitment to creating a safer, healthier, and more compassionate environment at 好色先生TV.

好色先生TV 好色先生TV

好色先生TV is a private Christian institution offering a range of undergraduate, graduate, and adult professional programs. Committed to academic excellence, faith, and community service, Judson provides a supportive environment for its diverse student population.

For more information, visit .

好色先生TV is thrilled to announce that Bruce Koblish, a distinguished figure in Christian music and media, will deliver the commencement address at the graduation ceremony for the Class of 2024 on May 4th. Judson鈥檚 Commencement ceremony will be held on May 4, 2024 in the Herrick Chapel at the Elgin Campus.

Bruce Koblish has charted a remarkable journey marked by transition, letting go, and change, ultimately leading him to his current endeavors focused on serving the most vulnerable in society. In 2020, he founded Willow Bend Creative, an organization dedicated to supporting individuals experiencing homelessness, hunger, abuse, and addiction. Through initiatives like Hope in The Gate, a national retreat model in partnership with Citygate Network, Koblish has facilitated life transformation, utilizing the power of Christian music and storytelling to bring dignity and respect to marginalized communities.

Prior to his work with Willow Bend Creative, Koblish served as the President and CEO of CNI (The Worship Network) from 2005 to 2015, reaching millions of viewers with messages of hope and healing through television programming. His extensive career in Christian music includes producing and arranging for renowned artists such as Sandi Patty, Steve Green, and Michael W. Smith. Koblish鈥檚 contributions to the industry also include his tenure as President of the Gospel Music Association and President of Reunion Records.

At 73 years old, Koblish continues to find inspiration in the words of the apostle Paul, recognizing the mystery and power of God in the meek, humble, poor, and homeless. His commitment to uplifting the marginalized underscores the values of compassion and service that 好色先生TV instills in all of their students.

For more information visit: Spring 2024 Commencement

Elgin, IL 鈥� 好色先生TV鈥檚 RISE Program 鈥� a unique, one of its kind program that provides a post-secondary education for students with intellectual disabilities announced a new partnership with two area businesses that are opening up their doors and offering paid internships to students 鈥� W.R. Meadows in Hampshire and Ricky Rockets Fuel Center in Hoffman Estates.

RISE, which stands for Road to Independent Living, Spiritual Formation and Employment launched its inaugural cohort in 2017 鈥� making Judson the first Christian university in the state to offer such a program. Nationally, less than 3 percent of all colleges and universities offer a program aimed at students with intellectual disabilities.

Program founders Gayle Gianopulos, whose daughters have Down syndrome, and Nancy Binger 鈥� a Judson Vice President at the time, whose son also has Down syndrome 鈥� wanted to ensure their children had the same opportunities as their other siblings 鈥� and that dream included college. So after a lot of planning, preparation, and fundraising 鈥� the RISE program was officially launched in 2016 and the first cohort would begin a year later.

So far, RISE is in the middle of its 6th cohort, and since 2017 鈥� the program has graduated 53 students.

Last year, fourth-year RISE student Kelly spent two semesters at W.R. Meadows, where she worked on administrative and organizational tasks. Kelly will be returning to complete her second-semester internship at the Hampshire-based company. Founded in 1926, the family-owned and operated business designs, manufactures and markets high-quality building materials for construction professionals across the United States.

The Meadows family remain longtime supporters of the university and Merrie Meadows 鈥� a Judson alum herself 鈥� is the company鈥檚 chairman of the board and member of Judson鈥檚 World Leaders Forum board of directors. The WLF, through its internationally-known speakers, raises money for student scholarships at Judson 鈥� including the RISE Program. The company鈥檚 president Matt Price and his family can be seen at WLF events throughout the year as attendees and sponsors.

Ricky Rockets 鈥� an upbeat family-friendly fuel center, car wash and convenience store with locations across Illinois and in Garland, Texas is owned by Barrington-area businessman Rick Heidner 鈥� founder of Heidner Properties. In addition to Ricky Rockets Company, Heidner owns an extensive real estate portfolio that spans nationwide and includes the Field of Dreams baseball field made famous by the 1989 movie Field of Dreams starring Kevin Costner and H.O.P.E. House 鈥� a local suicide prevention organization that assists teenagers, veterans and first responders struggling with mental health issues.

This semester, three third-year RISE students 鈥� Sean, Katie, and Katherine 鈥� will intern at Ricky Rockets鈥� Hoffman Estates location where they鈥檒l assist staff with a variety of tasks including stocking shelves, keeping the location clean, working the register and assisting customers.

To learn more about the RISE Program, please visit

Rebecca is from Belvidere, Ill., with a double major in Psychology and Christian Ministries. She came to Judson from Belvidere High School where she received the Mantle Award. Rebecca was selected as a high school junior for a partnership program with Rock Valley College so when she graduated from high school, she also graduated with her associate’s degree from Rock Valley College.  She was also selected for Phi Theta Kappa at Rock Valley. Phi Theta Kappa is an international honor society for students attending community colleges and other open-access institutions.

Rebecca was selected as a Roeser Scholar at 好色先生TV, and during her tenure, she has been a part of the Judson Student Organization and in the Demoss Center for Worship in the Performing Arts Choir where she was selected as a choir officer.  She has also served as a tutor in the Writing Center and as a sales associate in the Judson Spirit Store. 

Rebecca鈥檚 other accomplishments include:

• Serving as a Youth Group Leader at First Baptist Church of Aurora
• Serving as a Youth Board Member for Area 1 of the Great Rivers Region of the American Baptist Churches
• Serving as a Camp Counselor and Intern to the Assistant Camp Director at Blackhawk Baptist Camp for three years
• Serving as a Camp Counselor and Intern to the Assistant Camp Director at Blackhawk Baptist Camp for three years

Rebecca has also served as a guest speaker at churches and at youth leadership events.

Thanks to a聽generous donation聽from Joe and Mary Slawek through聽the聽Slawek Family Charitable Fund, 好色先生TV will create the Slawek Scholars Program, which will provide聽scholars with mentors, leadership opportunities, participation in the World Leaders Forum events, business etiquette training, and dedicated support to both the student and the families as they navigate higher education.

, who was CEO and founder of FONA International for 33 years, has been recognized as an Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year庐 winner and he is also a member of the Entrepreneur Hall of Fame.  Slawek also authored, 鈥�,鈥� in 2013, and the book is in its fourth printing.  Slawek has historically been an integral part of the Roeser Scholars program at Judson by being one of the entrepreneurs who have shared their insights with students throughout the program.

For Judson, a First-Generation college student is defined as a student for whom neither parent earned a degree after high school.  With the blessing of the Slawek gift and through the Slawek Scholars Program, utilizing Slawek鈥檚 book as a primary resource, Judson’s goal is to provide the necessary resources for First-Generation college students to succeed.

A critical element of that success will take place through the First-Gen Student Union which will launch on Nov. 8.  The mission of the club is to develop a support system, a stress-free environment, and networking opportunities for first-gen students. We hope to understand the barriers and challenges first-generation students may face during their academic year that would prevent them from engaging and provide them with support.  

“The gracious gift from the Slawek family has provided the needed resources to launch a number of first-generation initiatives,” said Ginny Guth, Vice President of Student Success and University Registrar. “Upon receiving the funding, Ana Alicea was selected to assist us in launching the First-Generation Student Union. Her work alongside Jaimee Bartha, Judson’s Director for First-Year Experience, has sparked great excitement among our first-generation student body. Judson’s faculty continue to support the initiative with their involvement in activities, curriculum development, and walking alongside our student body. We are thankful for the opportunity to continue to support our first-generation students.”

“As the first recipient of the Slawek Scholarship, I am excited to lead the First-Generation Student Union supporting First-Generation students.,” states Ana Alicea, a psychology major from Elgin, Ill. “The scholarship has allowed me to be part of a community that understands the barriers I may face and how we together can overcome those barriers.”

The Dawson Field turfed complex will now host home soccer games as well as be a practice facility for the Football and Track and Field programs. The facility marks the first-ever in school history that can accommodate outdoor track practices and will impact more than 200 scholar-athletes and will indirectly impact every other athletic program as it provides a new training and spectating venue space. Additionally, the space will be used in other activities for Judson as well by external partners.

“We’ve come a long way. In the summer of 2021, we officially began the launching of the turf field and the practice track [project]. The idea had been discussed prior to that, but it became real,” said Executive Vice President Dr. Nikki Fennern. “Then in mid-October, we made an excellent decision to partner with SMC construction and Dewberry Architects.” 

The project launched on February 4, 2022, with a groundbreaking ceremony. 

“There’s a lot of people to thank today,” said Athletic Director Rick Williams. “Any improvement is something that we do not stop at. Every single day we are striving to get better. I look forward to seeing what we can do from here.” 

Judson’s President Dr. Gene Crume also spoke thanking the board of trustees for their blessing on the project. Several trustees were present at this event including former 好色先生TV student-athlete Dr. Adam Mackintosh among many others. 

 “I definitely want to say a big word of thanks to our scholar-athletes and our coaches in particular. Thank you for your sacrifices while this project was underway. It does make a big difference. Your patience and thoughtfulness while waiting for this field to get finished [is greatly appreciated].” 

Dr. Fennern concluded the ceremony by reminding everyone to attend the senior days for several of our fall programs on Saturday, October 29. Among the team to be honored that day will include Women’s Volleyball, Women’s Soccer, and Men’s Soccer.