Autumn 2009 | Volume 3, Issue 4

SPU: The Place Where World Change Begins

As we head into fall, I've been thinking a great deal about this place that we call Seattle Pacific.

What is it that makes this campus -- these buildings, trees, classrooms, residence halls, study spaces, locker rooms, and more -- so special? What is it that motivates families to make such sacrifices to send their students here?

I believe that something is change. This is indeed the place where world change begins. Our clear and compelling mission at Seattle Pacific is at the center of all we do.

Our vision is to engage the culture and change the world with the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Read the rest of President Philip Eaton's article and learn about SPU's role in shaping world-changers.

Watch our exclusive video

The Win-Win-Win of Work-Study Jobs

Studies show that working less than 20 hours per week while in school does not adversely affect a student's coursework.

In fact, part-time work can help students gain employment experience and time-management skills -- both of which will benefit them after graduation.

That's good news for families searching for ways to pay for college. Along with scholarships and loans, Seattle Pacific work-study jobs are becoming an attractive option.

Learn more about work-study opportunities at SPU, and how SPU seeks out meaningful work experiences for its students.

CityQuest: Service With a Twist

On September 26, more than 800 SPU students and faculty members will go into the Seattle community to pick up trash, volunteer at hospitals, and do other service projects.

Why? It's all part of CityQuest 2009 -- SPU's day of community service.

"It's a great opportunity for freshmen to work alongside community service groups, agencies, churches, and individuals to make a difference in the community," says Owen Sallee, SPU coordinator of urban and global involvement.

"Plus, it's a fun way for students to develop relationships with peers and see the city."

Discover more about this year's CityQuest, and find out how professors incorporate the day into their classes.

Introducing the SPU Parent Council

Welcome parents to this exciting new academic year!

It's with great enthusiasm that I introduce the SPU Parent Council. Sponsored by Alumni and Parent Relations, the SPU Parent Council is comprised of 24 active parents of full-time SPU undergraduate students representing second- through fourth-year students.

Our objective is to create a vibrant parent community at SPU by encouraging parents to be informed, engaged, and connected. After all, parents make a difference!

Read the rest of the article by Linda Rowan, SPU Parent Council president, and learn about the group's exciting events and programs for 2009-10.

They've Left the Nest. Now What?

If your student is an SPU freshman, you're at a transition point - much like the day you sent your student to kindergarten.

Mark Abbott, senior pastor of First Free Methodist Church, shares his suggestions for dealing with this transition in a healthy manner.

His first tip? "Remember to let go. We do our kids (and ourselves) a big favor."

Check out Pastor Abbott's other suggestions for coping with an empty nest.

We Need Your Feedback

What Do You Want to See?
Tell us what you'd like to see more of in this newsletter and what topics matter to you and other parents. Just email parents@spu.edu.

Would You Follow SPU Parents on Twitter?
Submit your comments or email parents@spu.edu.

Did you know President Eaton has a blog? Check out Saturday Morning From My Study for a collection of the president's writings and videos about "things that matter" -- how the Christian gospel speaks into today's culture. Subscribe to the blog today.



H1N1 Flu Precautions

What is SPU's plan for the H1N1 virus (swine flu)? Read our tips for prevention, and check out what students can do to be prepared.



Involve-O-Rama
September 27, 2009
5:30-7:30 p.m.

Does your student want to get involved at SPU? Then recommend checking out Involve-O-Rama. The event will host 70 booths with organizations representing every interest, from ministries to athletics to student clubs. Read more.



Day of Common Learning
October 14, 2009, 10 a.m.

Join the SPU community to hear Ronald C. White, noted Abraham Lincoln scholar and author of A. Lincoln: A Biography, discuss "Transformational Leadership." Afternoon seminars, led by faculty, staff, and students, are also open to the public. The lecture is part of SPU's Eighth Annual Day of Common Learning.



SPU Mom's Day
November 7, 2009

So what is SPU really like? Join other moms and their students on campus for a day packed full of fun activities and insights. It's a great way to experience your student's home away from home! Registration begins September 29, 2009. Find out more.



Sacred Sounds of Christmas
November 30, 2009, 7:30 p.m.

Time is running out for discounted Sacred Sounds tickets! There are only six days remaining to take advantage of early-bird and group tickets to SPU’s premier downtown choral Christmas celebration, The Sacred Sounds of Christmas. Regular prices go into effect October 1.



Becoming Soul Mates
January 16, 2010

Are you ready for a deeper connection in your marriage? Then consider attending this highly acclaimed seminar by SPU professors and relationship experts Les and Leslie Parrott. It's an entertaining, thought-provoking day on SPU's campus. Save the date! Watch the parents' website for details. Registration begins October 15.



Parents and Family Weekend
January 28-30, 2010

Mark your calendars for SPU's Family Weekend, January 28-30, 2010, and plan to join your student on campus for a slice of SPU life. Family Weekend is held in conjunction with Homecoming, and most events are open to parents, alumni, and students. Check the parents' website for details.



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Got High School Students?
Check Out etc Magazine

etc magazine serves as a bridge between the SPU community and high school and college students by telling the stories that make us uniquely SPU. It's fresh, fun, and award-winning. Check it out!



Keep Up With Falcon Athletics

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