Stories
  • VU Alumni Advocate for Foster/Adoption

    VU Alumni Advocate for Foster/Adoption

    Adopting two foster children has changed the way that Robert Knutsen ’09 and Holly (Smith ’10) Knutsen think about their community. As members of the Vanguard University President’s Circle and Foundation Board, they are actively advocating for resources that remove financial barriers for students who would not otherwise be able to graduate from a university like Vanguard.

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  • Student Spotlight: Melissa Akullu ’24

    Student Spotlight: Melissa Akullu ’24

    Melissa Akullu ’24 concluded the 2023 basketball season as one of the nations’ most decorated players.

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  • Faculty Spotlight: Joni Prado, DMA

    Faculty Spotlight: Joni Prado, DMA

    Vanguard University Professor of Music Joni Prado, DMA, is passionate about music and wants to inspire her students in the pursuit of their musical gifts.

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  • Faculty Spotlight: Professor Bill Dogterom

    Faculty Spotlight: Professor Bill Dogterom

    Bill Dogterom, DMin, professor of pastoral ministries and spiritual formation, teaches courses in pastoral ministry, spirituality, and practical theology for the undergraduate program.

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  • President’s Circle Spotlight: Ron Nipper ’69

    President’s Circle Spotlight: Ron Nipper ’69

    Colonel Ron Nipper, USAF, Retired, graduated from Vanguard University (then Southern California College) in 1969. In addition to his 30-year service to the United States while in uniform, Ron has served VU as a member of the Veteran’s Board. Long-time President’s Circle members, he and his wife Tessy ’70, have two children who graduated from Vanguard University, Elena ’96, M.A. ’99, and Matthew ’02.

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