The Institute Blog
Thoughts on Jesus, Education, and Life from Faculty, Students & Grads
College Conversations S2E10: Diversity: A Person, Not an Idea (Transcript)
The podcast highlights the importance of authentic diversity in a Christian college community, focusing on individual expression over false unity. Gregg Garner, Laurie Kagay, and Benjamin Reese share personal experiences of being token representatives of diversity and emphasize the need for genuine diversity rooted in values.
College Conversations S2E9: A Look Behind The Scenes with College Administrators (Transcript)
The conversation between Jeff Sherrod and Laurie Kagay focuses on the challenges of recruiting students who align with the college's mission and values. They discuss the importance of storytelling, communication, and finding students who fit the college community well.
College Conversations S2E8: Will Anyone Hire Me with my Bible Degree? (Summary & Transcript)
In this episode of College Conversations, Jeff Sherrod, President Gregg Garner, and VP of Enrollment and Marketing Laurie Kagay discuss how colleges prepare students for the workforce. They explore the disconnect between graduates' readiness and employers' expectations, highlighting the importance of practical experiences and skills beyond a degree. The podcast also touches on the Institute for GOD's innovative approaches to addressing this issue.
College Conversations Podcast S2E5 Transcript: “Does anyone do Discipleship Like Jesus Anymore?” Part 2 (Transcript)
Gregg, Jeff, and Laurie discuss the topic of discipleship on college campuses and the various programs available. They highlight the misconception that discipleship is solely about one's relationship with God and emphasize the importance of interactions with others, and college as the premier venue for discipleship (even above church). Listen and check out what cooperation is necessary between churches and colleges for discipleship to occur effectively.
College Conversations Season 2, Episode 2: “Why College is one of your Most Important Life Decisions” Transcript
President Gregg Garner discusses biblical college education’s current and future relevance with Institute faculty Jeff Sherrod, Benjamin Reese, and Laurie Kagay. They address the challenges and benefits of a faith-based degree, its influence on career paths, and its role in preparing students for a dynamic job market. A crucial conversation for Gen Z students and their parents considering higher education.
College Conversations Season 2, Episode 1: Biblical Education - Where’s it Headed?
President Gregg Garner discusses biblical college education’s current and future relevance with Institute faculty Jeff Sherrod, Benjamin Reese, and Laurie Kagay. They address the challenges and benefits of a faith-based degree, its influence on career paths, and its role in preparing students for a dynamic job market. A crucial conversation for Gen Z students and their parents considering higher education.
10 Challenges Third World Believers Face in Pursuing a Biblical Education
The challenges of pursuing a biblical education in the developing world and how you can help!
Announcing the 2023 GOD Summer Internship: An Opportunity for Growth and Service
GOD International announces 2023 Summer Internship dates, locations, and information.
College Conversations Season 1, Finale: Third World Travel - The Ultimate Learning Experience
In a special episode recorded during a break from filming The Institute’s feature on The College Tour, Gregg Garner, Jeff Sherrod, and Laurie Kagay are joined by show host Alex Boylan. Alex, an avid advocate of higher education, travel, and adventure, shares his perspective on why spending time abroad is an integral part of a student’s education. Tune in to learn about the unparalleled learning opportunities that travel offers and why it's a must for students seeking a well-rounded educational experience.
College Conversations Season 1, Episode 10: Professional Development: A New Era - Announcing The Institute’s ProDev Program (Transcript)
Join Gregg Garner, Jeff Sherrod, Benjamin Reese, and Laurie Kagay in an exciting announcement of The Institute's Professional Development (ProDev) program. This episode sheds light on how the ProDev program provides Institute students with a unique Christian workplace environment. Here, students can enhance their occupational skills, graduate debt-free, and step into the professional world with both experience and a job offer in hand. This conversation is key for anyone interested in how faith and professional development can be seamlessly integrated in an educational setting.
College Conversations Season 1, Episode 7: Gap Years - Life Changing Break or Delayed Future? (Transcript)
Gregg Garner, Jeff Sherrod, and Laurie Kagay are joined by Josh Beers, President and Founder of OneLife, a gap year program operating across the US. In this discussion, “Coach Beers” delves into the importance of discipleship and the distinct advantages a gap year provides for students uncertain about their future steps. This episode is particularly insightful for those considering a break from traditional academic paths to explore personal growth and vocational clarity,
College Conversations Season 1, Episode 2: The Big College Debate - Smart Investment or Financial Trap? (Podcast Transcript)
Join Gregg Garner, Jeff Sherrod, and Laurie Kagay as they address a crucial question facing today's students: Is college worth the cost? In an era where college enrollments have significantly declined post-COVID, with over a million students opting out, this episode explores the reasons behind this shift. The trio discusses the financial aspects of higher education and evaluates its value in the contemporary educational landscape. This conversation is vital for anyone considering the balance between the costs and benefits of a college education in today's world.
Congratulations to our 2021-2022 President’s & Dean’s List Students
Congratulations to our 2021-2022 Deans and Presidents list of students finishing their academic year with honors.
The Institute is an official college partner of ZeeMee
The Institute is an official partner of ZeeMee — providing an app dedicated to helping students find their college community.
Institute Staff attends ABHE’s 74th Annual Conference
A handful of administrative faculty, board members, and Founder/President Gregg Garner attended the conference, gaining insight and experience and sharing our own with the hundreds of other colleges and seminaries at the ABHE.
Generosity in the ABHE
That's what happened this week when we welcomed Larry Griffin, President of Mid South Christian College of Memphis, TN, to our campus in Nashville. Connected by a mutual friend, John Savage of The Savage Group out of Seattle. Institute President Gregg Garner gave Mid South President Larry Griffin a tour of our campus. Then, the two discussed the future of both institutions.
Dual Enrollment: A Cure for Senioritis
If you're a high school senior and just ready to be done, try dual enrollment. Maximize your time, explore a college option, and gain credits at the same time. The Institute is offering a dual enrollment course this Spring called Mission-Driven Service, designed to prepare you for your summer mission experience.
Amid Higher Ed Crisis, the Institute Gears Up for Growth
In 2020--the year where colleges across the country have plummeting enrollment and many shutting their doors--the Institute for G.O.D. hosted its biggest Student Preview event yet.
7 Ways to Make Someone’s Holiday with less than $20.
Institute Professor Laurie Kagay shares some wisdom with Christian college students looking to celebrate Christmas meaningfully and without a lot of cash.
Why Christian College Doesn't Equal Christian Community
Attending a Christian college doesn’t mean you’re a Christian. Teaching at a Christian college doesn’t mean you’re a Christian. Graduating a Christian college doesn’t mean you’re a Christian either.