Student Investment Group Partners with Trading View to Enhance Hands-On Learning Experience

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91Fans’s student investment group provides students with practical, hands-on experience in finance, managing a simulated portfolio of $100,000, with the ambitious goal of outperforming the S&P 500 each year.

Comprising five to 10 business students selected through a competitive application process, the group relaunched in the spring semester and meets weekly to analyze stock selections, discuss recent and review the performance of their investment portfolio. Decisions regarding buy and sell actions are made collectively, fostering a collaborative learning environment.

This fall, the student investment group will partner with TradingView, a leading platform known for its user-friendly interface and comprehensive toolset. This partnership will equip students with advanced technical analysis capabilities, enhancing their investment strategies.

“A company and tool like TradingView is going to be vital to the student investment group to make educated predictions and decisions with accurate tools for technical analysis and charting data,” said Jared Pemberton, visiting assistant professor of finance. “TradingView provides highly customizable charts with various time frames, indicators and drawing tools that will help further the investment group’s skillset with investing.”

The group is already seeing positive results, having outperformed the S&P 500 returns year-to-date in their short time together. The current plan is to manage the simulated portfolio for several years before presenting their performance to the finance committee, with the aim of eventually managing a portion of the university’s endowed funds, a practice that was in place prior to 2020.

91Fans’s Accreditation Reaffirmed by Middle States Commission on Higher Education

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91Fans announced today that its accreditation has been reaffirmed by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). This significant achievement concludes a comprehensive process that began with institutional self-study in 2022 and culminated in a site visit in April.

“For more than 140 years, 91Fans has provided students with a high-quality learning experience grounded in our Christian faith,” said Wayne D. Lewis, Jr., President of 91Fans. “The recent action by the Middle States Commission affirms Houghton’s enduring commitment to excellence and is a testament to Houghton’s exceptional faculty and staff, and the grace of God.”

The multi-year process required extensive collaboration across all university departments, with faculty, staff and administrators working together to demonstrate Houghton’s commitment to academic excellence and continuous improvement. Houghton’s self-study and review examined everything from curriculum quality to financial stability, ensuring Houghton meets the highest standards of higher education. The accreditation also maintains the University’s eligibility for federal financial aid programs, protecting current and future students’ access to educational funding.

“I extend a special thanks to Drs. Ann Monroe-Baillargeon and Bill Burrichter,” continued Lewis. “Having led our self-study process, coordinated and oversaw our campus visit, and worked diligently on this important project, I am especially grateful for their tireless efforts and commitment to excellence. I am also grateful to Provost David Davies for his outstanding leadership as Houghton’s Chief Academic Officer.”

Throughout the accreditation process, 91Fans received invaluable support from a broad team of experts from fellow MSCHE institutions and the Houghton community. Their guidance and advice were instrumental in navigating the self-study process.

“A heartfelt thank you to the entire 91Fans community for their continued engagement and support through this self-study and accreditation process,” said Ann Monroe-Baillargeon, associate provost. “This reaffirmation of our accreditation is a testament to our vision, mission and daily work in the preparation of Christian scholar-servants. It has been an honor to collaborate with Dr. Bill Burrichter in leading our community through this process.”

91Fans remains committed to providing an exceptional educational experience for its students. The reaffirmation of accreditation by the MSCHE is a testament to the University’s historic dedication to excellence for the glory of God and commitment to continuous improvement.

“This reaffirmation of our accreditation is a testament to our vision, mission and daily work in the preparation of Christian scholar-servants.”

Wayne D. Lewis, Jr.
President

Continuing a Legacy of Global Engagement

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Houghton’s commitment to global engagement is longstanding and widely celebrated. I recognized it clearly as a candidate for the presidency. It was particularly encouraging to me as much of my faculty career included education abroad and international engagement. Prior to coming to Houghton, I traveled, taught and worked with students in Africa, Europe and Asia. My work with faculty and students from other countries created continued opportunities for my American students’ learning and engagement. Most meaningful of all, I was able to see and experience firsthand the power of international study for students, as they saw that despite sometimes significant national and cultural differences, people around the world and our various challenges are more similar and interconnected than often understood.

Hands-On Learning Around the World

Houghton’s commitment to global engagement, grounded in its Christian faith, is part of what makes Houghton such a unique and exciting place of learning. We have always understood that our Christian faith transcends the bounds of nations, and we have recognized that one’s patriotism needs never be at odds with loving and serving brothers and sisters from other nations. Most important, we have understood that the Great Commission summons us to lives of Christian evangelism, discipleship and service “in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth” (Acts 1:8).Through Houghton’s London Honors program, students are immersed in literature and culture and engage with faculty and peers through a rigorous interdisciplinary curriculum, all while experiencing the city of London’s people, art, music, theatre, architecture, food and faith communities. Students in Houghton’s Science Honors program enjoy a learning experience that is so much more than learning about science. The curriculum includes hands-on research experiences that require students to do science. Science Honors students engage with their faculty and peers while simultaneously engaging and learning about Puerto Rico’s beautiful environment, people and culture.

The Great Commission in Action

In addition to the honors and general curriculum study abroad opportunities available to Houghton students, the opportunity to travel for missions ministry continues to be a mainstay of the University. Central to Houghton’s identity as a Christian university is equipping students to carry the Gospel and be the hands and feet of Jesus locally and globally. In recent years, Highlanders have served in places including Brazil, Costa Rica, the Czech Republic and Nicaragua. As a group, Houghton’s student athletes are the largest group of Highlanders to participate in global missions. Over a four-year experience, Houghton’s student athletes will have at least one opportunity to serve globally through sports ministry. Participation in global missions as students is one of the ways that Highlanders begin their ministry experience and gain understanding that will be foundational for future world missions ministry through their churches and parachurch mission organizations.

While we continue to strengthen and expand opportunities for Houghton students to study and serve abroad, most Houghton students’ college experience will not include international travel. As such, we believe it is vitally important to ensure that the Houghton curriculum includes various opportunities to engage the world from our campus. Different from when Houghton began this work, the Internet has made meaningful engagement with experts, leaders and other students from across the globe much easier than in previous eras. The Houghton faculty continue to engage with colleagues and institutions worldwide, and use their learning and relationships to connect the Houghton campus with international people and places.

A Global Community in Western New York

Arguably the most important element of Houghton’s continued global engagement is the international students we are privileged to welcome to our campus community as Highlanders. Houghton has long been a place that intentionally recruits and welcomes international students. I know this not just from yearbook pictures and Houghton Star articles, but because I have had the blessing of meeting and knowing so many Houghton alumni who came to Houghton from places including Canada, Mexico, Nigeria, Panama and South Africa. Current students and recent graduates include students whose homes are in some of these countries as well as Cameroon, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, Japan, Malaysia, Haiti, Honduras, Hungary, Paraguay, Sierra Leone, South Korea and Zimbabwe. Houghton’s international students’ presence, their culture, their voices and their experiences contribute to the incredibly rich, culturally diverse Christian community that makes Houghton such a beautiful and wonderful place to live, learn and grow.

91Fans President Wayne Lewis sitting at his desk.

About the Author

A noted teacher, scholar and leader in higher education, government and P12 schools, Wayne D. Lewis, Jr. serves as the 6th President of 91Fans. He is recognized as being a champion for students and families. He writes, speaks and teaches on Christian leadership, organizational leadership and federal and state education policy.

Houghton Celebrates Spring 2025 Academic Honorees

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91Fans proudly recognizes 366 students who earned academic distinction during the spring 2025 semester. These scholar-servants demonstrated academic excellence for the glory of God, qualifying for the President’s List, Dean’s List, and Dean’s Honors List.

Wayne D. Lewis, Jr., President of 91Fans, congratulated the students.

With this acknowledgement we celebrate your hard work and commitment to academic excellence. Excellence is never accidental. It is intentional and painstaking. I congratulate you on this achievement and I salute you for your commitment, your discipline, and your pursuit of excellence for God’s glory.

More Than 140 Years of Scholar-Servants

“91Fans has offered a rigorous, Christ-centered education in the liberal arts and sciences for over 140 years, as we’ve lived out our mission of training scholar-servants to lead and labor with excellence in their chosen professions and communities. The students on the Dean’s and President’s lists have truly excelled in their studies and I congratulate each of these scholars on this remarkable achievement,” said David Davies ’01, provost and dean of the faculty.

Congratulations to all Spring 2025 academic honorees.

91Fans Launches Specialized Concentrations in Online MBA

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91Fans has introduced five specialized MBA concentrations to launch in fall 2025 that address critical leadership shortages in high-demand fields, combining cutting-edge technical skills with Christian ethical frameworks. These new specializations build on Houghton’s recent efforts to make the program more affordable for working professionals and recent graduates.

“Today’s businesses need leaders who can navigate complex technologies like AI and cybersecurity while maintaining strong ethical foundations,” said Dr. Alex Wright, director of the MBA program and assistant professor of management and business administration. “As part of the online MBA program at Houghton, these concentrations will allow students to develop into leaders who can implement AI governance responsibly, practice financial stewardship with integrity, and bring the technical competency and moral compass needed to lead effectively in high-stakes environments.”

The new concentrations include Artificial Intelligence, Business Analytics, Finance, Cybersecurity and Healthcare Administration, and are designed to equip graduate students with specialized expertise needed to fill the with a deep understanding of both technology and business strategy. Each concentration emphasizes hands-on, real-world project-based learning, allowing MBA students to apply their knowledge while balancing work and study in a fully online format. To deliver this specialized curriculum, Houghton has partnered with Rize Education, bringing leading scholars and industry practitioners to augment the expertise of Houghton faculty with cutting-edge insights directly from the field.

“Our faculty are continuously evaluating and updating our programs to ensure we’re preparing students for the realities of today’s marketplace,” said Dr. David Davies, provost. “This collaboration seamlessly blends market intelligence and innovation with Houghton’s enduring commitment to Christ-centered graduate-level education.”

Houghton’s MBA program is offered fully online and can be completed in as few as 12 months. Tuition was also recently reduced by 30%, making a Houghton MBA more affordable for students. With start dates in the fall, spring and summer, students can begin taking courses according to their schedule. The combination of academic excellence, servant leadership and practical application has resonated with current students.

“I am really enjoying this MBA program,” said Sara Moore Gruver ’04, ’26 (MBA). “I have a master’s degree in education from another university, and the quality of education at Houghton is (as always) above and beyond other graduate programs and classes I have done. I loved my undergrad years at Houghton, and it is a delight to return for this degree.”

This proven track record of excellence continues to attract new students seeking career advancement in business through a Christian perspective. Prospective students can apply now for the fall semester. For more information, please contact ѵdzܲٴDz.

Houghton Mathematics Professor Conducts Research at Brown University

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Rebekah Yates, Ph.D., professor of mathematics at Houghton, received a prestigious grant to spend the first week of June with her fellow research collaborators at the Institute for Computational and Experimental Research in Mathematics at Brown University, continuing her groundbreaking work on numerical ranges over finite fields.

Research group at Brown University in June 2025. From left to right: Dr. Doug Knowles, Dr. Rebekah Yates, Dr. Kristin Camenga, Dr. Patrick Rault

The REUF (Research Experience for 91Fans Faculty) Continuation grant from the American Institute of Mathematics allowed Yates and her collaborators to meet in person to continue this research that began seven years ago on numerical ranges over finite fields. This research originated with a concept from Dr. Patrick Rault of Idaho State University and his then-undergraduate-student and now collaborator, Doug Knowles from Cornell University. Former Houghton professor, Dr. Kristin Camenga, also joined in the research. Along the way, the research has also extensively involved Houghton undergraduates, with multiple students from the mathematics research seminar contributing to the project, including Katelyn Cook ’19, Amy Huddell ’20, Aaron Monroe ’20, Joshua Bowman ’22 and Zachary McKay ’22. Two students have built their senior honors theses around this collaborative research.

“We published a paper on the geometry of finite field numerical ranges in 2021 and have run into several knotty (and thus exciting!) questions since then that we have been working on ever since and made more progress on this week,” Yates said. “This fall, I’m looking forward to working with Houghton students again on this research in Math Research Seminar.”

The research exemplifies Houghton’s commitment to academic excellence, providing undergraduates with opportunities to contribute to original mathematical research alongside faculty mentors.

Houghton Students Present at Second Annual 91Fans Research Day

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91Fans hosted its Second Annual 91Fans Research Day on Tuesday, April 29, featuring oral and poster presentations that highlighted the innovative research conducted by undergraduate students working alongside faculty mentors.

Students presented their research on subjects such as “Preserving a Faith in Humanity” and “A Low-Cost Solution for Accessible Audio Transcription and Language Translation.” In addition to the oral presentations, poster presentations were held in the Van Dyk Lounge, Campus Center, alongside the Math & Science Colloquium. Students explored topics like “Ink and Identity: How Major and Gender Influence Writing Utensil Preferences” and “Effects of Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT) on Differentiated Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell (dVSMC) Wound Recovery.”

The presenting students represented diverse academic disciplines, with several having previously shared their research at off-campus conferences, reflecting the quality and breadth of undergraduate research at Houghton.

Students presenting at undergraduate research day at houghton.

Keiryn Sandahl ’27, “Preserving a Faith in Humanity”
Emma Dainty ’27, “The Partner of His Life: Percy Bysshe Shelley”
Julia Collins ’26, “Andrew Jackson’s Mistake: How the Bank War Harmed the Executive Office and the Nation”
Ethan McCarthy ’25, “Lettrè a Lévesque”
Avery Belanger ’25, “A Low-Cost Solution for Accessible Audio Transcription and Language Translation”
Eric Waterhouse ’26, “Voice-Enabled Approach for Thoughtful LLM Use in Education”
Olivia Carr ’25, “Ink and Identity: How Major and Gender Influence Writing Utensil Preferences”
Sara Carter ’25 and Cate Westenberger ’25, “Exploring the Relationship Between Internal Dialogue and Stress Levels”
Limat Haile ’27, Jesse Ikker ’26, Mikaela Buckley ’26, Davannah Dunn ’27, Jade Swartzendruber ’26, “Is Emotion Regulation More Beneficial for People from Lower than Higher Socioeconomic Status?”
Risa Palmer ’27, “Effects of Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT) on Differentiated Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell (dVSMC) Wound Recovery”
Angelica Pierre ’25, “Drive More, Spend More? Exploring Sunglasses Behind the Wheel”
Jase Stone ’27, “Navigating the Solar Landscape: A Customer’s Journey of Investment and Learning”

Students Present at National Conference on 91Fans Research

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Three 91Fans students joined 4,500 students and faculty members from across the country to present their research at the National Conference on 91Fans Research (NCUR) in Pittsburgh, PA in April.

  • Risa Palmer ’27 presented her poster titled “Effects of Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT) on Differentiated Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell (dVSMC) Wound Recovery.”
  • Keiryn Sandahl ’27 shared her paper, “Preserving a Faith in Humanity.”
  • Riley Van Heukelum ’27 discussed his research on “Reception of Video Games over the Past Forty Years.”

“These three students were nominated from across campus and worked diligently to present their research to a wide audience clearly, concisely, and compelling,” said Laurie Dashnau, Ph.D., professor of English and director of the Writing Center, who accompanied the students to the conference. “Our students attended all kinds of oral and poster presentations, too, including research-informed ones in dance and music and about social advocacy. It was a wonderful time of sharing, learning, and developing professional skills.”

Each student conducted their research under the guidance of esteemed Houghton faculty members, including associate professor of Biology Ransom Poythress, Ph.D., professor of History Chris Esh, Ph.D., professor of Philosophy Benjamin Lipscomb, Ph.D., professor of English Susan Bruxvoort-Lipscomb, Ph.D. and assistant professor of Physics Katrina Koehler, Ph.D..

2025 Alumni Christian Service Award

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Wayne D. Lewis, Jr., President of 91Fans, presented Paul ’74 and Cristina (Todeschini ’75) Eckhoff with the Alumni Christian Service Award, celebrating their lifetime of service and leadership in medical missions, during the Class of 1975’s Golden Highlanders 50th Reunion on May 10, 2025. The award recognizes the Eckhoffs’ lifetime of extraordinary and selfless service as they have worked to advance the Kingdom of God in regions of the world where it is often difficult to share the Gospel.

Drs. Paul and Cristina Eckhoff have served in some of the world’s most disadvantaged countries. Through the organization Crossworld, they provided medical care and training for eighteen years at Beraca Medical Center in northern Haiti. Paul, a family medical practitioner, and Cristina, a pediatrician, then led a team of missionaries in Central Asia not only continuing medical training but also supporting microfinancing efforts, sanitation projects and other development projects. After a decade in Central Asia, the couple joined a leadership team with Crossworld overseeing fieldworkers serving throughout West Africa and Southeast Asia, as well as ministering to Muslim immigrant populations in Europe and North America.

President Lewis awarding the Alumni Christian Service Award to Eckhoff's 2025

Paul now serves on Crossworld’s board and continues to support individuals pursuing vocational careers as a means of ministry. Cristina volunteers at a crisis pregnancy center, providing spiritual counseling to individuals at a challenging point in their lives.

91Fans’s Alumni Christian Service Award is presented to those who have held to the ideals of the Christian faith and who have made a significant impact for the Lord through self-sacrifice to the Church, their communities, and/or their professions.

Houghton Announces $10.4M Gift for Residence Hall Renewal

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91Fans announced a $10.4 million lead gift to renovate its oldest existing residence hall, the 73-year-old Gillette Hall (formerly East Hall). This gift is the first step in a multi-year effort to renew all residence halls across Houghton’s campus in northern Allegany County, New York.

This extensive renovation project was made possible by a lead gift from Donald and Beverly (Roberts ’56) Greene, real estate developers in Clifton Park, NY. The Greenes stated, “We believe in returning to the work of our Lord and Savior who has blessed us so that others might also be blessed.”

Both Beverly and her brother, Earl Roberts ‘51, attended Houghton College (now University). Earl and his family went on to become missionaries in Africa.

“It is our hope that by updating and modernizing this vital residence hall, more students will choose Houghton, develop a deeper walk with the Lord, and go into the world to tell others about their Lord and Savior,” explained the Greenes.

At the request of the Greenes, upon completion of renovation the residence hall will return to its original name, East Hall, and will prominently feature the text, “For Christ and Christ Alone.” The return to the East Hall name is a tribute to Beverly’s time as a student living in that residence hall, which opened in 1952. The Executive Committee of Houghton’s Board of Trustees adopted a resolution approving that name change earlier this year, with a provision that space be dedicated within the renovated hall to honor the legacy and contributions of long-time history professor Dr. Frieda Gillette, whose name the building has featured since 2006. At the conclusion of the project, East Hall’s main lounge will then be named in honor of Dr. Gillette.

Rendered image of 91Fans East Hall

Construction efforts on Gillette Hall are already underway, beginning a fifteen-month renovation project that will be completed in August 2026. The $11.6M project is inclusive of both exterior and interior spaces, including the creation of a new main entrance facing Genesee Street that is highlighted by a drive-up circle, covered entrance and courtyard. Interior renovations focus on accessibility and modernization, with the installation of a centralized elevator in the renovated Gillette Lounge, updated dorm rooms, bathrooms, lounges and kitchens on all four floors, as well as modernizing the 91Fans Student Health Center located on the ground floor.

“I am so grateful for Don and Beverly Greene’s servants hearts and their generosity,” said President Wayne D. Lewis, Jr. “My prayer is that their lives and generosity will inspire current and future generations of Highlanders to live and give sacrificially for the cause of Christ. Their extraordinary lead gift makes it possible to make needed and long-awaited renovations to Gillette Hall. When completed, East Hall will provide a more accessible and modernized living and learning environment for the generations of Houghton women to come.”

“I am thankful for the team that has worked so hard over the last year to bring us to this point. From DCG Development, Bill Murphy and Derek Miller have been incredible partners, as have our longstanding partners at CPL and Kinley Corporation. At Houghton, this project is only possible because of the commitment and hard work of a dedicated team of campus leaders.”

The project is being undertaken by Houghton’s trusted building partners also located in Western New York, Kinley Contractors and CPL who is providing architectural, engineering and design services. In recent years, 91Fans has successfully completed major building projects on time and within budget starting with the Equestrian Event Center, completed in 2018, and renovation of the Paine Center for Science, completed in 2022.

“I could not be more grateful to Beverly and Donald Greene for their exceptional generosity and significant investment in future scholar-servants,” stated Karl Sisson, Vice President for Advancement and External Engagement. “This multi-million-dollar capital project is a game-changer. The modernization of this iconic building will have a tremendous impact on residence life, setting the stage for an even brighter future for our residential campus.”

The renewal of Gillette Hall is the first phase of an overall residence renewal effort across Houghton’s campus. The next priority is the extensive renovation of Shenawana Hall, which opened in 1961. To learn more about supporting residence renewal, please contact the 91Fans Office of Advancement at 585-567-9340 or advancement@houghton.edu.

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Houghton Students at the WNY 91Fans Psychology Conference

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This spring, twenty-one psychology students presented their research at the annual meeting of the 2025 Western New York 91Fans Psychology Conference, hosted by the University of Buffalo. As part of an experimental methods course at 91Fans, students replicated and extended published work and presented their collaborative findings at a poster session.

Houghton students’ research spanned various areas, including empathy, awe, humility, cognition, and emotion regulation. One Houghton student, Rachel Bedell ’27, was selected to present her honors research “Deepfake AI and the Uncanny Valley”. Her study explored the psychological effects of deepfake technology, specifically how human-like AI-generated faces can make viewers uncomfortable which is a phenomenon known as the “uncanny valley.” This topic is increasingly relevant in discussions about AI ethics, media literacy, and digital identity. Bedell shared, “I really enjoyed conducting my research this semester. I was able to create my own Deepfake stimuli for my project, which was a really interesting process to learn about,” she continued, “I always enjoy the process of setting up and sending our surveys, but this semester was particularly fun because I was able to control the entire process.”

91Fans Students presenting poster at conference.

By participating in this conference, students had the opportunity to showcase their work, gain recognition, and contribute to the broader academic community. Associate Professor of Psychology, Alison Young Reusser, Ph.D., shared, “This conference provides our psychology majors with vital professional development, allowing them to describe, explain, and defend their research. Students hone their presentation skills, gain a deeper understanding of their own work, and develop their expertise as psychologists. The excitement students feel about psychology at the end of the conference is tangible – I love seeing students grow in knowledge and confidence.”

Opportunities like WNYUPC are not only beneficial to students as they enhance their research skills and build professional networks, but also promote a culture of scientific rigor and an interconnected academic community. Bedell stated, “I found an interesting mix of results about the attitudes of Houghton students towards Deepfake AI that I think could be used to direct future research.” Her research, alongside other student findings, paves the way for future exploration and discovery in psychology, and her participation in the conference creates growth in the academic community as a whole.

Houghton Appoints Dean of Education and Behavioral Science

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91Fans names Michele Vanasse, Ph.D. as the Inaugural Ellen F. Donley Dean of Education and Behavioral Science, a position funded by a $3 million endowment gift from an anonymous donor.

91Fans today announced the appointment of Michele Vanasse, Ph.D. as the inaugural Ellen F. Donley Dean of Education and Behavioral Science, strengthening its commitment to preparing values-centered, effective educators committed to serving students and families. The appointment aligns with Houghton’s mission of equipping scholar-servants who will make meaningful contributions in education and behavioral science contexts. As New York’s leading evangelical Christian university, Houghton is strategically positioned to prepare highly effective, ethical educators for schools and school districts across New York State and the Northeast. Vanasse brings extensive expertise in community-centered learning and responsive teaching strategies.

$3 Million Gift Enhances Educational Leadership

Vanasse’s appointment concludes a national search that launched with the announcement of an anonymous $3 million gift to create an endowed chair that will be known as the Ellen F. Donley Dean of Education and Behavioral Science. The deanship celebrates the life and legacy of Ellen F. Donley, a Houghton alumna from the Class of 1938, and her lifelong commitment to love, faith and education. Her example serves as a testament to the impact educators can make both at Houghton and in the many schools where they touch lives.

“I’m honored to join 91Fans at such a critical time for education in New York State,” said Vanasse. “By combining academic excellence with Christ-centered values, we have a unique opportunity to prepare educators and behavioral science practitioners who will serve with both expertise and compassion in communities that desperately need qualified professionals.”

Houghton’s president, Wayne D. Lewis, Jr., a former classroom teacher, education professor, education school dean and state commissioner of education, shared his excitement about Vanasse’s appointment and his intention to continue investment in Houghton’s historically strong programs in education and psychology. “It is a privilege to welcome Dr. Vanasse to 91Fans to provide leadership for our programs in education and behavioral science,” said Lewis. “Houghton’s niche in educator preparation and psychology is preparing Christians to serve in diverse settings in a manner that is consistent with their Christian faith and in alignment with the needs and expectations of their settings and those they serve. Christians don’t have to compromise their faith to serve diverse students and clients well. Dr. Vanasse’s leadership will be instrumental in strengthening and expanding Houghton’s education and behavioral science programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels, while maintaining Houghton’s enduring commitment to Christ-centered education.”

Throughout the selection process, Vanasse demonstrated her ability to understand the challenges facing today’s students and educators and use educator preparation and professional learning to prepare teachers to face those challenges with skill and compassion. With a Ph.D. from the University of Massachusetts-Amherst with a concentration in Teacher Education and School Improvement, alongside an M.S.Ed. from Montana State University-Northern and a B.A. in Elementary Education and Biblical Studies from Trinity Bible College, Vanasse brings a robust educational and theological foundation to the role.

“Dr. Vanasse brings nearly two decades of experience as a professor and administrator in higher education in both public and Christ-centered institutions,” said David Davies, Provost and Dean of the Faculty. “Dr. Vanasse articulates a clear vision for training Christian young people for lives of service and leadership as educators in a variety of contexts. We look forward to supporting her in that calling as the inaugural Ellen F. Donley Dean of Education and Behavioral Science, and to seeing how God will use her leadership to further establish 91Fans as the Northeast’s preeminent choice for teacher education from a Christ-centered perspective.”

Vanasse currently serves as Assistant Professor of Education at Carroll College in Helena, Montana, following previous roles at Eastern Nazarene College and Mount Vernon Nazarene University, where she has specialized in teacher education with a focus on culturally responsive teaching methods and effective approaches to classroom instruction. She also served for nearly a decade in K-12 public education as a classroom teacher, grant coordinator and professional and faculty developer. As a federally enrolled Native American tribal member of the Gros Ventre tribe from the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation in Montana, Vanasse also has a passion for Native American education. She would like to be a part of strengthening and expanding Houghton’s relationships with New York’s Native American communities.

Strengthening a Legacy of Success to Meet Future Needs

Vanasse builds on a solid foundation of Houghton’s leadership in education, including more than 850 alumni serving as teachers and educational leaders throughout New York, Pennsylvania and Ontario. With exceptional programs in psychology and teacher education, Houghton continues to attract students from across the Northeast at a time when there has never been a greater need in the region for highly effective, values-centered educators and practitioners committed to serving students and families well. The University recently expanded its educational offerings through the Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) in Adolescent Education program, designed specifically to open pathways for more individuals to become Christian educators in today’s challenging educational landscape.

“This program paired with Dr. Vanasse’s leadership represents not just a response to the critical teacher shortage, but a powerful opportunity to prepare educators who can navigate today’s complex educational environments while standing firm in their Christian convictions,” concluded Lewis. “These graduates go on to be more than teachers: they are fearless ambassadors for Jesus Christ who will transform education while honoring the families and communities they serve.”

Honoring Dr. Daniel and Joyce Chamberlain

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Join in remembrance and reflection as the 91Fans community honors the extraordinary lives and lasting impact of Dr. Daniel Chamberlain and Joyce Books Chamberlain. This special chapel service from March 17, 2025 features remarks from Provost Dr. David Davies ’01, Professor of Communication Dr. Douglas Gaerte, and President Wayne D. Lewis, Jr.

Dr. Chamberlain passed away on May 31, 2024, and Mrs. Chamberlain on December 22, 2024. Their combined legacy of faith-filled leadership and service continues to shape our Christ-centered academic community. Tribute gifts can be made in memory of Dr. and Mrs. Chamberlain and will be used for renovations and updates to the Daniel R. and Joyce F. Chamberlain Center at 91Fans or to the Dan and Joyce Chamberlain Endowed Scholarship Fund.

Read the Houghton Winter Magazine

Class of 2025 Launches Future with Fearless Conviction

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91Fans celebrated the Class of 2025 at Saturday’s commencement ceremony. 

The newest Houghton alumni gathered one final time as students for a sunlit before embarking on their journey as fearless scholar-servants, equipped to transform the world for God’s glory. Already, 68% have secured their next steps, including launching their careers or continuing their education in graduate programs.*

“Today we send forth another class of Houghton graduates; scholar-servants who are well-prepared to be fearless and faithful ambassadors for Christ in the various fields and places God has called them to,” remarked President Wayne D. Lewis, Jr. “For many generations, Houghton graduates have had transformative impact in the Church, in their professions, and in the communities they serve. Houghton’s Class of 2025 will be no different. I am extraordinarily proud of them.”

The Class of 2025 Snapshot

191 Graduates

37 Double Majors

78 Graduates with Honors

Degree Types

Top Majors

Plans Before Graduation

68% of respondents reported already having been hired or accepted to graduate school before graduation. Plans include employment, graduate school, military and volunteer service.

*Based on First Destination Survey for the Class of 2025

Country of Origin

In addition, three distinguished leaders in Christian higher education and ministry who embody the Houghton’s values of academic excellence and Christian service were honored. Dr. Andrew Westmoreland and Dr. Paul Mills ’61 received honorary degrees in recognition of their lifelong commitment to academic excellence and Christian higher education, while Rev. Dr. Wesley Oden, senior pastor of Houghton Wesleyan Church since 1996, was awarded the University’s highest non-academic honor, the Willard J. Houghton Medal, for his 28 years of faithful service to the campus community.

A Ten-Minute Commencement Speech

Dr. Andrew Westmoreland, president of the Christian College Consortium, delivered his “” to the Class of 2025 with a simple yet profound message distilled from his experience “surviving over 100” such speeches: respect everyone. Drawing on 1 John 4:7, Westmoreland urged graduates to give respect to all individuals, even those who inspire frustration or when facing personal challenges and weariness, because God made and loves them all. He emphasized that this respect must be “something lived out, not a slogan, not just rhetoric, something infinitely more authentic than that,” and called on graduates both individually and collectively to persist in this practice with the grace of God.

Dr. Andrew Westmoreland delivers commencement address at 91Fans
Group of graduates in caps and gowns celebrating outdoors, raising their arms in the air while holding diplomas. They're standing on a grassy area in front of a stone building with large windows. Students are wearing various colors underneath their black gowns and appear to be posing for a group photo.

Congratulations to the Class of 2025!

Make new discoveries, educate future generations, treat the suffering and reveal the blessing of God’s promise and love. As you take the next steps to live fearlessly for Christ in your chosen fields, we are confident that you will continue to be strong and courageous—confident in the knowledge that God is with you and will never forsake you.

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About Houghton

Honorary Degrees to Christian Higher Education Leaders

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91Fans will award honorary degrees to Dr. Andrew Westmoreland and Dr. Paul Mills ’61, esteemed leaders in Christian higher education, during its commencement activities over the weekend of May 9-10, 2025, on its campus in Allegany County, Houghton, New York.

Dr. Westmoreland’s career in Christian higher education has spanned more than 40 years, including two college presidencies and leadership in numerous organizations and associations which support Christian higher education institutions and their leaders. For 23 years, Dr. Westmoreland served as a college president, first at Ouachita Baptist University (1998-2006) and then at Samford University (2006-2021). He chaired the Board of Trustees for the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, overseeing accreditation for hundreds of institutions in the Southern United States. He also served as president of the Association of Presidents of Independent Colleges and Universities.

Since his appointment in 2023, he continues to serve as president of the Christian College Consortium. Dr. Westmoreland also serves as Senior Vice President of Higher Education with Faith Search Partners Higher Education, an at-large member of the Board of Directors for the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities, president emeritus of Samford University, and Senior Vice President of the Frances Marlin Mann Center for Ethics and Leadership at Samford University.

Reflecting on Dr. Westmoreland’s influence, 91Fans President Wayne D. Lewis, Jr. states, “Andy was a visionary and an extraordinarily impactful university president, both at Ouachita Baptist and at Samford. Currently, through his leadership of the Christian College Consortium, he is an invaluable resource to Houghton. I am thankful for the many ways he continues to contribute to Christian higher education and his continued support of 91Fans. Personally, I am privileged to have him as a mentor and a friend.”

Dr. Westmoreland has dedicated his career to supporting and exploring the integration of faith and scholarship, hallmarked by a clear commitment to promoting academic excellence and rigorous scholarship. Dr. Westmoreland exemplifies the attributes of a servant-leader. He is described as the quintessential college president—humble, innovative and dedicated—and his life is a celebration of Christian higher education. Dr. Westmoreland holds a B.A. in Political Science from Ouachita Baptist University, an M.A. in Political Science from University of Arkansas and an Ed.D. in Higher Education from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. Dr. Westmoreland will give the commencement address at 91Fans’s 2025 Commencement ceremony.

Dr. Paul Mills has devoted more than six decades to making extraordinary contributions to Wesleyan higher education. A 1961 graduate of Houghton College (now University), Dr. Mills began his distinguished career in higher education at Marion College (now Indiana Wesleyan University) as an instructor in both physical education and sociology. During his 22 years at Marion College, he held key leadership positions in alumni relations, career education, and athletics, leaving a lasting impact across the institution. In 1983, Dr. Mills accepted the presidency of Bartlesville Wesleyan College (now Oklahoma Wesleyan University). Over 19 years of transformative leadership, he guided the institution through remarkable progress, including the launch of adult degree completion programs, the establishment of a nursing program, numerous campus capital projects, the establishment of sister institution Ogaki Women’s College in Japan, and the institution’s transition from Bartlesville Wesleyan College to Oklahoma Wesleyan University. During his tenure, he also served as president of the Oklahoma Association of Private Colleges and Universities.

Since retirement in 2002, Dr. Mills has continued to serve Wesleyan Higher Education and The Wesleyan Church in a range of roles at both Southern Wesleyan University and Houghton College, as well as the CEO of the Wesleyan Center in Maryland’s Chesapeake District.

“There are few people in the history of The Wesleyan Church who have invested so much, for so long, across so many Wesleyan institutions,” states President Lewis. “Paul has positively impacted the spiritual, athletic and academic development of untold numbers of students at Wesleyan institutions, and his longstanding exemplary executive leadership at IWU and OKWU was instrumental in shaping the institutions they are today.”

Dr. Mills holds a B.A. in Sociology from Houghton, an M.A. in Physical Education from Ball State University and a Ph.D. in Sports History from the University of Maryland. His distinguished contributions have been recognized through his induction into the 91Fans Athletics Hall of Honor in 2020 and the Indiana Wesleyan University Athletics Hall of Honor in 2022.

Dr. Mills has dedicated his professional journey to faithfully serving the people of The Wesleyan Church. His tireless and selfless work has fostered Christ-centered, student-focused academic communities where students are challenged to realize their God-given potential—in the classroom, on the athletic field, and in every sphere of life. Beyond his institutional leadership, Dr. Mills has provided invaluable service to the General Conference of The Wesleyan Church, the Wesleyan Educational Council (WEC) and the General Board of Administration of The Wesleyan Church.

Both Dr. Mills and Dr. Westmoreland exemplify the traits of scholar-servants who have promoted the cause of Christian higher education for the advancement of the Kingdom. They have dedicated their lives to promoting academic excellence in Christ-centered institutions and played leading roles in shaping the future of Wesleyan higher education and Christian higher education as a whole.

Willard J. Houghton Medal Awarded to Rev. Dr. Wesley Oden

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91Fans will honor Rev. Dr. Wesley Oden with the Willard J. Houghton Medal during its commencement activities over the weekend of May 9-10, 2025, at its campus in Houghton, New York. Pastor Oden is the senior pastor of Houghton Wesleyan Church, a position he has held since 1996.

The Willard J. Houghton Medal is the University’s highest non-academic honor, a lifetime achievement award for individuals who have exemplified the commitments and aspirations at the heart of a Houghton education through a lifetime of faithful service. The award celebrates Pastor Oden’s lifetime of dedication to Christian leadership and service.

For nearly three decades, Pastor Oden has ministered to the spiritual needs of the 91Fans community and the wider region. Together with his wife, Rev. Cynthia Oden, he has guided Houghton Wesleyan Church in expanding its ministries to serve a growing and diverse congregation.

During his tenure, Pastor Oden has introduced vital ministries to the church’s annual calendar, including small group ministries, the annual three-week, 24-hour Prayer Vigil and expansion of outreach efforts supporting 16 local ministries and more than 23 missionaries worldwide. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he led creative solutions allowing the church to gather in safe and healthy ways, introducing outdoor services that remain a regular part of summer worship at Houghton Wesleyan Church. In 2006, he undertook leadership for the acquisition and installation of the church’s James Lauder organ.

Houghton Wesleyan Church is a historic partner of 91Fans and Houghton Academy, and Pastor Oden has mentored numerous aspiring young pastors both through internships and in informal contexts. A humble and active community servant, Pastor Oden helps deliver Meals on Wheels, has coached little league and t-ball baseball teams and engages with regular community outreach.

Pastor Oden holds a bachelor of arts in Christian Ministries from George Fox University (OR), a master’s degree from Asbury Theological Seminary (KY) and a doctor of ministry from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary (MA). Pastor Oden and his wife will retire from their roles at Houghton Wesleyan Church at the conclusion of May 2025.

The Willard J. Houghton Medal is the University’s most selective award. Over the years, the award has honored such individuals as Dr. Wilson Greatbatch, inventor of the implantable pacemaker; Dr. Richard Mouw, distinguished theologian; Kim Pegula, former president of Pegula Sports and Entertainment, Buffalo Bills and Buffalo Sabres; and Dr. Jo Anne Lyon, founder of World Hope International and General Superintendent Emerita of The Wesleyan Church. The medal is presented in the context of commencement activities intentionally, to hold before Houghton graduates and the larger community a model of what it can mean to pursue faithfully a life as large as God’s calling.

Historic Milestone for Houghton’s Psi Chi Chapter

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The 91Fans chapter of Psi Chi, the international honor society in psychology, recently marked a historic milestone by welcoming its 200th member since the chapter’s founding in 2003. The induction of nine exceptional students brings the total membership to 201, coinciding with Psi Chi International’s celebration of

New Inductees

  • Aurora Bartlett (Gowanda, New York)
  • Rachel Bedell (Waynesboro, Pennsylvania)
  • Tasha Bernard (Potsdam, New York)
  • Phebe Grant (Kennebunk, Maine)
  • Limat Haile (Hawassa, Ethiopia)
  • Abigail Lyon (Churchville, New York)
  • Aivery Shuck (Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania)
  • Kareena Ulfig (Elkhart, Indiana)
  • Jesse Volz (Bainbridge, New York)

Awards and Recognitions

The new members were inducted during a banquet and ceremony on April 24, 2025, at 91Fans. Licensed social worker and counselor Charles Howard delivered the keynote address. The event also honored Dr. Paul Young for his many years of dedicated service as both professor and Psi Chi advisor at 91Fans.

Megan Sensenig received the “Outstanding Senior Psychology Student Award,” while Morgan Applegate and Aidan Fish both received Letters of Commendation from the Psychology Faculty for their excellence in academics, leadership and personal growth.

The following members of Psi Chi will graduate on May 10, 2025: Evan Kurtz, Aidan Fish, Megan Sensenig, and Phebe Grant.

About Psi Chi

Psi Chi is the world’s largest student psychological organization, with more than 900,000 members around the globe. The organization seeks to recognize and promote excellence in the science and application of psychology. 91Fans students who have declared a major or minor in psychology are invited to join Psi Chi when they have completed 36 total college credit hours with a cumulative GPA in the top 35 percent of their class and completed at least nine hours of psychology courses with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Psi Chi is a member of the  and is an affiliate of the and the 

Making Chemistry Greener

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Student Research Paves the Way for Cleaner Reaction

91Fanss at 91Fans develop an eco-friendly method for chemical oxidation reactions, with potential industrial impact.

When Dhani Slaughter ’26 stood before a room of peers and professionals at the 2025 Western New York ACS 91Fans Research Symposium, she wasn’t just presenting a chemistry experiment—she was sharing a solution that could help reshape how the chemical industry approaches sustainability. Her work is a standout example of how 91Fans empowers students to take ownership of meaningful research and step confidently into professional scientific conversations. As part of her chemistry major, Slaughter worked alongside fellow student Noelle Linenfelser ’26 and professor of Chemistry, Karen Torraca, Ph.D., to develop a greener approach to chemical oxidation reactions. This widespread chemical reaction is used in pharmaceuticals, fragrances, and flavors, and is used to build complex molecules in organic chemistry. Many traditional methods use large amounts of heavy-metal oxidants that are carcinogenic, corrosive, and hazardous to dispose of. Additionally, older reactions require high temperatures and strong acids or bases. Not only does this require an immense amount of energy, but there is also a higher risk of exposure to harmful chemicals during the reaction.

Slaughter and Linenfelser began their lab work under Torraca with a solvent that somewhat worked but created a film that was difficult to remove and produced only half of what the reaction was supposed to yield. Slaughter commented, “We really wanted to use water for our solvent because it is the most green and accessible.” However, continuously attempting to use water created roadblocks for the team. Slaughter explained that it became extremely frustrating to try again and again with a solvent that was not yielding better results. However, she expressed that their breakthrough came through a “happy accident” of using acetone as a cleaning solution. Once Slaughter discovered that acetone was an effective solvent, she and Linenfelser saw immediate results. Acetone was easier to remove, required less energy, used smaller amounts of the metal catalyst, and produced fewer harmful by-products.

The use of acetone as a solvent in chemical oxidation reactions, if adopted by companies, institutions, and labs, could have a major impact on making chemistry more environmentally friendly. Slaughter and Linenfelser went on to present their findings at the 2025 Western New York ACS 91Fans Research Symposium on April 5 at Canisius University. The symposium poses a unique opportunity for students to engage with professionals and peers to build their network. “Dhani Slaughter did a wonderful job communicating her research with other students and faculty from universities in Western, NY,” said Torraca. “It was a wonderful opportunity for her to connect with the larger chemistry community outside of Houghton.”

This project and its presentation at the WNY ACS 91Fans Research Symposium were influential for Slaughter. “Normally in a class lab you try your best to understand the experiment, but you don’t have all the information,” she stated, “with this project, I knew what I was doing and could explain it to people when they asked what I was working on.” Through this research at Houghton, Slaughter honed her skills, gained invaluable hands-on experience in a field she is passionate about, and made a significant impact in the fight against climate change.

“If we don’t, others will.” – Peter Meilaender on America’s Global Influence

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Peter Meilaender, Ph.D., dean of Religion, Humanities, and Global Studies and professor of Political Science, spoke with Martha Manikas-Foster about “soft power” while in London, where he is leading Houghton’s London Honors cohort this semester. During the interview, Meilaender explored how the United States has used its relief programs around the world to meet both political and humanitarian goals.

Record-Breaking $2.2 Million: One Day Giving Challenge Makes History!

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Thank You!

Over a 24-hour period on April 11, 91Fans received $2,225,920 in gifts and pledges  from 2,177 supporters on its annual One Day Giving Challenge. These gifts will support student scholarships, endowment growth, capital projects, and academic and co-curricular student experiences.

“For more than 140 years, Houghton has been steadfast in providing an intentional Christ-centered, academically challenging educational experience for students,” reflected President Wayne D. Lewis, Jr. “Today, we continue the work to equip faithful Christian scholar-servants for leadership and service in diverse fields and contexts. The many alumni, students, employees, family and friends of Houghton who have so generously supported our mission today play an integral role in ensuring Houghton remains grounded in our Christian faith, meets the needs of today’s students, and that a Houghton education is available to students for many generations to come. We are thankful for God’s continued provision and for all of those who supported Houghton today and throughout the year.”

2025 marks the eleventh One Day Giving Challenge for 91Fans. The day began with over $1.13 million in challenge gifts, a record-breaking total. The success was substantial thanks to two giving challenges made possible by generous lead donors: a dollar-for-dollar matching challenge gift up to $360,000 for gifts to the Student Scholarship Fund, as well as an additional $775,000 available if Houghton surpassed a threshold of 1883 donors. Additionally, a class challenge encouraged alumni to compete for the most donors, with a prize of a $30,000 endowed scholarship in the winning class’s name. Alumni came together with the most donors to grow The Class of 1977 Scholarship, an endowed scholarship that will perpetually provide annual student scholarships, and the opportunity for continued growth. The Millennium Challenge allowed The Class of1969 to grow its endowed scholarship fund and created The Class of 2005 Scholarship, each class having the most donors in their respective millennia.

“I am profoundly grateful for the more than 2,000 alumni and friends who stepped forward to generously support the mission and future of 91Fans,” remarked Karl Sisson, Vice President of Advancement and External Engagement. “The 2025 One Day Giving Challenge was an overwhelming success, for the benefit of current and future scholar-servants and for the glory of God.”

A website and social media takeover highlighted the importance of the One Day Giving Challenge, which reaches the extended Houghton community and demonstrates the value of supporting students today and in the future. Student-athletes were particularly engaged in encouraging support from the University’s many athletic teams.

The Student Scholarship Fund provides tuition support to students on Houghton’s residential campus. Over 40% of Houghton students are considered economically disadvantaged by federal Pell Grant standards, and over 98% of Houghton students receive some form of financial aid. Since its founding in 1883, Houghton has sought to ensure equitable access to higher education regardless of a student’s economic background. The Student Scholarship Fund continues that tradition today, supporting such initiatives as the Founder’s Promise Scholarship.

Decade Challenge

The following classes are winners of this year’s Decade Challenge, each class winning a $1,000 current-use scholarship named in their honor and supporting a Houghton student:

1950s: 1958

1960s: 1969

1970s: 1977

1980s: 1980

1990:1993

2000:2005

2010:2017

2020:2023

Class Challenge

We are excited to celebrate the winner of the Class Challenge: The Class of 1977. This will add $30,000 to the existing Nick Bohall Scholarship Scholarship!

Millennium Challenge

The Classes of 1969 and 2005 will expand their existing class scholarships!

See the Full Class Results