The Institute Blog

Thoughts on Jesus, Education, and Life from Faculty, Students & Grads

Missions, Student Highlight Laurie Kagay Missions, Student Highlight Laurie Kagay

Institute for GOD Students Set Out for El Salvador Immersion

Students from the Institute for GOD will engage in a six-week cultural immersion in El Salvador, participating in community service projects like youth programming and gardening. The experience fosters cultural exchange and personal growth while supporting GOD Latin America. This post details their preparation, activities, and the educational impact of their trip.

Read More
College Conversations, Choosing A College, Missions Website Contributor College Conversations, Choosing A College, Missions Website Contributor

College Conversations S2E6: Gen Z’s Summer Playbook - Education + Missions (Transcript)

In a recent College Conversations podcast, Gregg Garner, Laurie Kagay, Mitchell Buchanan, and Amelia Harrison discuss the transformative impact of Students Living a Mission and the Summer Internship programs on college students. They highlight the opportunities for cross-cultural experiences, professional development, and increased enthusiasm for education that these programs offer.

Read More

College Conversations Season 2, Episode 4: “Does Anyone Do Discipleship Like Jesus Anymore” Part 1 (Transcript)

Gregg Garner, Jeff Sherrod, and Laurie Kagay discuss the topic of discipleship on college campuses and highlight the lack of engagement in discipleship among Christians. They explore different definitions and examples of discipleship, emphasizing the importance of interacting with others. The speakers also address the challenges of discipleship in a culture that values self-affirmation and individualism. They suggest that there is a problem with discipleship in churches and a lack of biblical literacy among young people. Overall, they emphasize the importance of making disciples and discuss the potential role of colleges in discipleship.

Read More

College Conversations Season 2, Episode 3: “Avoiding Degree Mills: The Importance of Accreditation and Libraries”

This podcast discusses the topic of accreditation in higher education, highlighting its voluntary nature and the benefits it provides to schools. It also explores the pros and cons of accreditation, including financial support and recognition versus the challenges of meeting standards. The conversation then shifts to the evolving role of libraries, emphasizing the need for adaptation to meet the changing needs of students. The importance of providing services and resources, marketing offerings, and supporting academic programs is emphasized. The speakers also discuss the importance of a physical library space and the potential for libraries to preserve students' work.

Read More

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.

Read More
College Conversations, Missions, Choosing A College Website Contributor College Conversations, Missions, Choosing A College Website Contributor

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.

Read More
College Conversations, Missions, Choosing A College Website Contributor College Conversations, Missions, Choosing A College Website Contributor

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.

Read More
College Conversations, Institute News, Missions Website Contributor College Conversations, Institute News, Missions Website Contributor

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,

Read More

College Conversations Season 1, Episode 5: Mission Trips - More than Just Travel (Podcast Transcript)

Gregg Garner and Jeff Sherrod converse with Institute alums Ashley Moore and Nick Sherrod about the significant role of mission experiences during college. Through their personal stories, Ashley and Nick shed light on the importance of international service and travel, illustrating how The Institute for GOD incorporates these experiences into student education for profound personal and academic growth.

Read More