Written by NHCC President Noland Peebles

In late August, Elaine Naula and Erika Martinez-Robison, our Student Life Department
leaders, asked for a word for this year at New Hope Christian College. Renew seemed to be the
word for the year. As the first semester of the 2024-2025 school year has ended, renew has
proven to be a God-inspired word. No doubt when we read or hear the word renew in our Christian life context, we are reminded of Paul’s words in Romans 12:2, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” (NIV) Renewal, renew, and renewing has been the
norm at NHCC this semester. We welcomed 23 new students this semester. They brought a renewal of joy, noise, laughter, and fresh vision. The cafeteria and “The Hub” were renewed as gathering places for
fellowship, study, and prayer. The returning students were renewed and revitalized by the
enthusiasm of the new students. The campus was vibrant with laughter and good conversation.
We welcomed Dr. Aaron Friesen back to teach the History of Christianity. Dr. Friesen is an
alumni of New Hope Christian College and a former staff/faculty member. Dr. Grafton, our VP
of Academic Affairs, has a strong team of instructors and support staff. His leadership is evident
throughout the campus. Our admissions and enrollment team, Leslie Kiriakos, Taylor Montibon, and Elaine Naula, Student Life Director visited 9 schools and 14 churches on Oahu and the Big Island,
Hawaii. They had a fantastically successful trip. Leslie, Taylor, and Elaine continue to serve our
on-campus students and enthusiastically recruit from their on-campus offices.
The Student Life Department kept campus culture and life above all expectations. They
Fall Ho-Down at The New Hope Ranch was a win for the students. The Open-Mic night where
student talent is show-cased brought down the house; so good! In October, Student Life sponsored our every-semester Spiritual Growth Conference. Our guests were Pastor Sol Rexius,
Generation Church, Eugene, Josh Bidwell, University of Oregon football chaplain, Pastor Aaron
Cordeiro, and Pastor Wayne Cordeiro. Chapels this semester were times of deep worship and wonderfully led devotional times. Student Life brought back the “once-a-month Tuesday Devo Breakfast.” One Tuesday a month, the entire campus gathers for a full complimentary breakfast and community devotions. Other chapel highlights this year were Pastor Ryan Green, City First Church, Eugene, and Dr. Gary Matsdorf, one of the college’s favorite professors. These men loved on the students, challenged the students, and taught the students wonderful truths from the Word of God.
The college is strong and growing. Pastor Wayne Cordeiro serves as the Chancellor. We
are grateful for his leadership. Thank you to all of you for your support as I have begun my time
as president of New Hope Christian College. I am honored and grateful to serve the Lord with
each of you.
Noland Peebles
President