There is a huge elephant in the room at Andrews University (which admittedly sits on stolen land), and we are trying to understand where it came from and how it could be fixed.
The Architectural Department at Andrews University began in the late 1980’s under the capable hands of William “Doc” Davidson.
Since then, there have been numerous teachers and professors of Architecture, including Andrew von Maur and Rhonda Root. Both have just been fired, to the dismay of many credible Adventists in Berrien Springs. And they are making their concerns known in a brand new website.
According to his peers at Andrews,
Andrew von Maur is unmatched in work ethic and leadership and is fully committed to faith integration. He is a man who lives by conviction and stands firm in his beliefs and is a gifted teacher.
Von Maur has sought to integrate Adventist faith into his teaching, a commitment that sometimes rubs Andrews upper administration the wrong way. Why? Because they have a new commitment, one that includes social justice, ecumenism, and wokeness.
Von Maur has led tours to Europe on several occasions, where students observe the fascinating history of European architecture while experiencing confirmation of the Advent Message and the Bible that sustains our hope. This is a good thing.
When the Architectural Department invited Know His Love Ministries to speak to its students in April 2021, these students were blessed and encouraged by the presentation. Andrews University administration on the other hand was not pleased and reprimanded those who invited Know His Love Ministries to Andrews. Can you believe that?
Incidentally, in one of the more baffling conundrums in Adventism, Coming Out Ministries or Know His Love Ministry is not welcome on Andrews University campus. This is wrong, friends. Abhorrently, wickedly wrong. These people have testimonies and a ministry that would spiritually benefit Andrews students who are living in a world of unprecedented moral confusion.
We have also learned that the Andrews Provost recently decided to move the Architectural Department directly under his control. This move appears to be political, and has generated significant criticism from alumni, faculty and students alike.
Here’s how you can help. LINK
Please consider contacting the Andrews University administration and trustees and lodging your concerns.
More information about this situation will be forthcoming as we learn it. Stay tuned.
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