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Let us remind ourselves of our mission: "As a community of learners committed to historic Christianity, Roberts Wesleyan University seeks to prepare thoughtful, spiritually mature, service-oriented people who will help transform society."

This mission, grounded in our Free Methodist roots, compels us to excellence in scholarship, spiritual formation, and service. It is a call not only to academic rigor but also to the kind of character formation that equips graduates to articulate a Christian worldview, live lives of integrity and compassion and serve as agents of Christ's redemptive work in the world.

Our story began in 1866, over 150 years ago, when a group of determined individuals had a vision: to establish an academy that would provide an education grounded in the teachings of Christ as revealed in the Holy Scriptures. This vision was bold for its time, laying the foundation for what we are today. 

Benjamin Titus Roberts' vision was one of holiness, equality, and justice —a radical commitment to Jesus Christ that shaped his ministry, advocacy for the poor, and founding this university. He believed education should cultivate both the mind and the heart, forming individuals capable of transforming the world in Christ's name. This vision has never been more relevant than it is today. 

Our commitment to Christian education has shaped every aspect of our institution—from the classrooms to the athletic fields, from the chapel to the dormitories. This commitment continues to drive us forward as we prepare our students to be leaders in their communities, professionals in their fields, and, most importantly, faithful servants of Christ.

The Challenge of Staying True to Our Christian Principles

Maintaining a Christ-centered university can, at times, be challenging. As we move forward, we will remain anchored to Christ as the center of our growth as a university. In an increasingly secular, fragmented, and divided world, we are called to be different—to stand firm in our convictions and model Christ's love, grace, and truth in all that we do. This is not an easy task. The prevailing cultural norms often promote relativism, making it difficult to uphold absolute truth without facing resistance or misunderstanding. Demonstrating grace can be challenging in an environment that increasingly values personal autonomy over shared moral frameworks, sometimes viewing Christian principles as restrictive rather than liberating. 

Likewise, modeling Christ's love requires navigating polarizing social and political issues with both compassion and conviction, often in a climate that equates disagreement with intolerance. As the broader society moves further from biblical foundations, the pressure to compromise, conform, or remain silent grows stronger, making our commitment to a Christ-centered mission both necessary and countercultural. While some may interpret and apply these important terms through their own lens, we do so using three important lenses of our identity:

1. consistency with our heritage from our founding
2. fully embracing our identity, which is congruent with many in the Wesleyan Holiness theological family, 
3. in full alignment and ongoing affiliation with the Free Methodist Church, who commit themselves to the authority of Scripture. 

I understand that there are pressures, both internal and external, that may tempt us to dilute our values or compromise our core identity in the name of convenience, success, financial expediency, or relevance. But I encourage each of you today to reflect on Jesus's example. Jesus was never concerned with fitting in or conforming to the world's expectations. He was bold, courageous, and faithful to His Father's call, even when unpopular or challenging.

A Call to Reaffirm

We must acknowledge the tensions we face. In certain aspects, but by no means at all, our community has mirrored some cultural trends that influence us, at times at the expense of our historic commitment to a Christ-centered worldview. This shift, perhaps unintentional, challenges our ability to remain firmly anchored in the core beliefs and values that define us. 

Many Christian institutions have faced challenges related to their identity as they navigate the pressures of a rapidly changing culture. But acknowledging this reality is the first step toward addressing it.

Our mission calls us to prepare students who are not only intellectually competent but spiritually mature, individuals who can engage the world with a Christ-centered worldview. Yet, in recent years, some of our practices, policies and cultural norms have become nebulous, and if not addressed, this could potentially compromise our mission. 

The Scriptures teach us in Hebrews 12 to "fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith." As an institution, this means evaluating every program, every policy, and every practice in light of our commitment to Christ. It does not mean excluding those who think differently or failing to engage diverse perspectives. Instead, it means creating a centered-set community where Christ is the compelling center, and we all strive, with grace, to move closer to Him. To navigate this moment, I believe we must embrace the concept of a "centered-set community." This idea, drawn from the field of mathematics and applied to Christian discipleship, shifts our focus from rigid boundaries to a compelling center—Jesus Christ. 

In such a community, the question is not whether someone perfectly adheres to a list of criteria but whether they are moving closer to or further away from Christ. This approach allows for grace, growth, and accountability, recognizing that discipleship is a journey. This does not mean abandoning standards or compromising truth—far from it. It means calling everyone in our community— students, faculty, and staff alike—to fix their eyes on Christ and move toward Him. This applies not just to the spiritual activity and relationships we have but also to the way we research, study, reflect and teach our disciplines—since all of it ultimately leads to God as the fountain of all truth. 

This approach also invites us to engage in redemptive discipline, where mistakes are met with grace and opportunities for growth rather than exclusion. It challenges us to create a community where questions, doubts and struggles can be voiced without fear because we trust that Christ is big enough to handle them.

It will require us to focus on direction rather than rigidly defining boundaries—on drawing every member of our community closer to Christ through intentional discipleship, thoughtful dialogue, and grace-filled accountability. This approach allows us to balance truth and love, orthodoxy and hospitality, conviction and compassion. 

The Role of Faculty and Staff in Upholding Christian Values

As faculty and staff, you are on the front lines of this mission. Every day, you influence and shape the hearts and minds of our students. Whether in a lecture hall, an office, a dormitory, or a cafeteria, how you engage with students reflects our university's commitment to Christ. Our students look to you for knowledge and examples of character, wisdom and faith.

As we educate students academically, we also seek to form them spiritually. We want them to leave Roberts Wesleyan not only with degrees in their hands but with hearts aligned to the will of God. We want them to love the Lord their God with all their hearts, minds, and souls and to love their neighbors as themselves. From a character education perspective, we will teach the students who leave here to be grounded in understanding and utilizing integrity and ethics at the foundation of their work; students who are hardworking, knowledgeable, loving and dedicated members of society; students who reflect the holiness of God engaging the world.

This means we must intentionally integrate Christian values into our academic disciplines, interactions with students, and the larger fabric of university life. It is not enough to profess these values; we must model, encourage and challenge one another to live them out with passion and integrity. Saying we love everyone without bringing the truth of our faith is an affront to God. 1 Corinthians 13:6 states, "Love does not delight in evil, but rejoices in truth." We sometimes love but shy away from deep conversations for comfort, as we do not want to upset the apple cart. Being hospitable without pointing people to God is merely social activism. Compassion that does not encourage trust in the author of compassion creates relativism. It is important for people not to be comfortable with the status quo of loving everyone and, at the same time, creating confusion for our students who wonder what we stand for. We will not do so anymore. 

When we are clear on our identity, we can be candid about our commitment to our beliefs. This allows stakeholders to make an informed decision, thus avoiding confusion, future upsets, and the potential for our language to become confusing and "bait-and-switch" circumstances to occur. We are clearly an institution rooted and grounded in historic Christianity. 

Let me be completely clear—all students, regardless of their background, belief system, mode and code of life, are welcome at Roberts Wesleyan University and Northeastern Seminary. Our faculty and staff are privileged to impart balanced thought, demonstrated through their living and academic freedom balanced with academic responsibility. However, I must note that our liberty and the execution of such freedom relative to thoughts at Roberts Wesleyan University must be shaped by our identity—which does not compromise who we are. 

We know that our students come from diverse backgrounds, and many may not yet know the Lord personally. But we have the privilege and calling to show them Christ through our actions, words and example. We are responsible for being ambassadors for the Gospel in all our relationships. How we teach, counsel, mentor and work together are all opportunities to share the love of Christ in practical ways.

Addressing Academic Freedom and Institutional Clarity

Before continuing, I want to address an important matter that may arise in response to this call for realignment with our Christ-centered mission. Some may wonder if this initiative infringes on academic freedom or freedom of speech. These are vital principles in any academic institution, and I want to affirm their significance while clarifying their role within a faith-based university like Roberts Wesleyan. 

Academic freedom is the principle that scholars have the liberty to teach, research and express ideas without fear of institutional censorship or reprisal. It allows for the pursuit of truth, the exploration of diverse perspectives and the rigorous exchange of ideas. Similarly, freedom of speech ensures the ability to articulate views and engage in dialogue. However, neither of these freedoms grants an unrestricted license to say or do whatever one wants. 

Freedom comes with responsibilities in any community—particularly one that is mission-driven. For Roberts Wesleyan University, academic freedom operates within the context of our mission as a Christ-centered institution. It means we pursue truth rigorously and fearlessly, but always in a way that aligns with the truths of Scripture and the historic Christian faith influenced by our mission and our God.

Freedom of speech and academic freedom do not exist in a vacuum; they are exercised within the boundaries of our institutional identity and shared commitments. For example, in a secular university, the guiding principle might be pursuing knowledge for its own sake. At Roberts Wesleyan, however, our guiding principle is integrating faith and learning (which does not preclude brand-new knowledge and thought) in the service of Christ. This framework shapes how we define and exercise these freedoms.

Clarifying Our Identity for Stakeholders

Our intention is not to stifle intellectual exploration or impose a narrow legalism. Rather, it is to provide clarity about who we are and what we believe so that all members of our community—faculty, staff, students, alumni and other stakeholders—can engage in our shared mission with integrity and purpose. 

This clarity means recognizing that academic freedom and institutional mission are not in opposition. When exercised responsibly, academic freedom strengthens our mission, allowing us to explore the world's complexities through the lens of faith. It equips students to grapple with challenging questions while remaining rooted in the truth of the Gospel. 

By reaffirming our identity, we provide transparency for all stakeholders. Those who choose to join our community—whether as faculty, students or staff—do so with a clear understanding of our mission, values and expectations. I realize that not everyone agrees with our understanding of Christian faith or identity. Not all come from a spiritual tradition that shares our history and heritage. My hope is that the better you understand who Roberts Wesleyan University is and how we live and express our Christian faith, you will find greater confidence in how you fit as part of this community. This is not about inclusion with a goal and a purpose; it is about integrity and faithfulness to the vision that has guided us since our founding.

Renewing Our Commitments

To realign ourselves with our mission and heritage, we must take concrete steps: 

Reaffirm Our Christ-Centered Identity

Our foundational documents affirm the authority of Scripture, the richness of historic Christian thought through our Wesleyan Holiness tradition, and the centrality of Christ in all we do. These principles must guide our curriculum, hiring practices, and student life policies, ensuring that every aspect of our community reflects our commitment to Christ. 

Foster Spiritual Formation

Spiritual growth is not optional—it is central to who we are. We will redouble our efforts to create an environment where students, faculty and staff encounter God through worship, prayer and transformative experiences. It means equipping our faculty and staff to disciple students and modeling what living faithfully in a complex world means. 

Engage in Redemptive Discipline

As we call our community to higher standards of faith and conduct, we will do so with grace and love. Mistakes will happen, but we will approach these moments as opportunities for growth and discipleship, not exclusion or condemnation.

Champion Justice and Service

We have a commitment to justice. We will continue to prepare graduates who extend compassion, mercy, and justice to all people, embodying the radical holiness that B.T. Roberts championed. This includes addressing the needs of the marginalized, standing for God's justice, and equipping students to be agents of reconciliation in a divided world. It means living out the radical holiness that B.T. Roberts championed, which is not about legalism but about loving God and others wholeheartedly.

A Vision for the Future

This journey will be challenging, and it will take time to happen. But I believe, with all my heart, that God is calling us to this work—to reaffirm clarity about identity as a Christ-centered institution that boldly proclaims the Gospel while preparing graduates to engage the complexities of our world with wisdom, grace and courage.  

Roberts Wesleyan University and Northeastern Seminary have always been places where faith and learning intersect, lives are transformed, and Christ is exalted. Let us be faithful stewards of this legacy, ensuring that generations will encounter Christ's life-changing power in this community. 

As we look to the future, let us be bold in our vision: 

1. I envision a university where every student graduates with a deep understanding of their faith and calling, equipped to live out the Gospel personally and professionally. 
2. I envision a community where faculty and staff see their roles as sacred trusts, not just to teach or administer but also to disciple and mentor.  
3. I envision a campus culture where the love of Christ is so evident that it draws people in and compels them to move closer to Him.  
4. I envision accepting and not compromising our values, which can confuse stakeholders as to whether we are Christians. (We are.)  
5. I envision a future where those seeking to join our community feel welcomed but understand our Christian identity clearly and solidly from the moment they enter.  
6. I envision a time, and this is being worked on right now, a commitment to helping those who don't know what it looks like to disciple students. Corporate training will be available in this area within this calendar year. The key is if you are focused on Christ, we can help with the rest.  
7. I envision a time going forward when all members of staff and faculty will be at the weekly community chapel at least twice per month. I understand pressing matters; however, if we have required students to be at the Chapel, our lack of presence could send signals regarding our steadfastness and commitment to us growing together. Not only that, but it could also create confusion for our students. Hence, twice per week (at minimum), all faculty and staff will join our students for Chapel. This is big for me and is a requirement from now on. 
8. I can see us evaluating every action to see if it aligns with Scripture and specifically being bold enough to confront and adjust them to ensure that what we were founded on 158 years ago continues 158 years into the future.

A Call to Action

This vision will require courage, intentionality and prayer. It will require us to make hard decisions, resist the pressures of cultural conformity, and stay true to the mission God has given us. 

As we look toward Roberts Wesleyan's future, I ask each of you to renew your commitment to our Christian mission. Let us continue to be a place where truth, grace and love are not just taught but lived. Let us be a university known for its academic rigor and deep commitment to the kingdom of God. Let us challenge ourselves to seek His Kingdom and His righteousness first, trusting that all the other things will be added to us. 

Together, we can build a future that is faithful to the foundational principles guiding this university from its inception. Together, with the Holy Spirit, we can ensure that Roberts Wesleyan is a beacon of light in the community—a place where Christian values are not just a legacy but a living reality and our future. 

I know that each of you is deeply committed to our students' success. Success is not just about career outcomes but about forming a godly character, a love for learning and a heart for service. As we continue to serve one another, our students, and the community around us, may we always remember that the foundation of our work is Christ. 

Thank you for all you do: dedication, passion, and faithfulness. Together, let us continue to uphold Christian values and principles today and into the future for the glory of God and the transformation of lives.

God bless you, and may He continue to guide us in all we do. Thank you.