About
Recently I returned from a trip to Daystar University…
As this was my fourth trip this year, it did not seem exciting anymore. The 24 hours of travel each way wears on a person. Did you ever feel a bit burned out at a job or a ministry? I have been with Daystar over 27 years, six years as Executive Director/CEO. This job includes many meetings, which was not the case in my past roles. Some meetings are difficult, and some tedious, but they are needed.
I have been with Daystar over 27 years, six years as Executive Director/CEO. This job includes many meetings, which was not the case in my past roles. Some meetings are difficult, and some tedious, but they are needed.
On this trip I was once again in meetings, but also we had a chance to attend graduation – this was our first time attending a graduation in person, post Covid. On that day 1,483 students graduated! 619 diploma (associates degree), 607 undergrads, 237 masters degrees, 5 postgraduate diploma, and 15 PhD!
Later in the trip I was in a difficult meeting, and at the end I was really worn out, wondering if I should continue in this role. This was one of the days Sarit was recording video clips of our scholarship graduates elsewhere on campus. After my meeting I was able to talk to a few of the students who were waiting to have their turn to share their stories.
This interaction with students reminded me why I am at Daystar: the transformational nature of Christ-centered education. You can see the results. When you meet the students who have just started, and then also talk to one who is about to graduate, you can see the difference!
This is Lucy. Lucy comes from a Maasai village, in which girls and women generally do not have a voice, or even a decision in their own lives. She has graduated and is now teaching girls and helping to represent them in their community.
Lucy and myself.
John, finished his diploma (associates degree) and will continue with his undergrad, is doing his work-study on campus, helping to raise funds for the student loan program match.
Another graduate is Samuel, who cannot return to his home country, for fear of the group that has been trying to wipe out his family. In the meantime, now that he has graduated, he has job interviews in Kenya.
John at graduation.