Winter 2010 | Volume 4, Issue 1
Sunny With a Chance of Sleet
 From snow to rain, brutal cold to balmy inversions, Christmastime can bring constantly changing weather patterns. The same can be said for a student's college experience.
"The convergence of finals, term papers, and endless reading may have created a recent drought of sleep for your student," says Jeff Jordan, associate vice president for academic affairs and dean of students.
Additionally, your student may have experienced some stormy weather over the past few months. He or she has been making decisions. Some of these decisions have worked out well. Some may have not.
Often the comforts of home are an anticipated antidote. But as your student comes home, remember: There have been changes since the last time you were together.
Read the rest of the article and discover Jeff Jordan's tips for avoiding "inclement weather" at home.
 Video Extra: Jeff Jordan discusses changing traditions.
The Importance of This Place
 As we enjoy this wonderful holiday season, it's hard to believe we've wrapped up another academic quarter and the end of the calendar year is upon us.
Looking back on Autumn Quarter, I realize I've never been more energized about what's going on all across our marvelous campus. Something very exciting is in the works.
Faculty members are digging into their work and making a tremendous difference. Staff members are involved in comprehensive planning for the future of this place. Students are engaged and curious.
Great things are happening here. Indeed, as I have been saying all quarter: Seattle Pacific is the place where world change begins.
Continue reading and find out what's happening at SPU that delights President Eaton.
Reconciliation 101
 At the heart of the Christian story is reconciliation -- the restoration of relationship with God and one another through Jesus Christ.
Starting in Autumn Quarter 2010, reconciliation will also play a key role in Seattle Pacific's academic story.
"Our new minor in reconciliation studies will combine interdisciplinary classes rooted in our School of Theology with practical experience through our partnership with SPU's John Perkins Center," says Kerry Dearborn, professor of theology. "It's a holistic, biblical, theological, and applied approach to training in reconciliation."
It's also a timely degree. Skills and understanding in issues of reconciliation are crucially needed in our world today, adds Dearborn. "We want to equip students in their chosen fields to participate
in this work."
Learn more about faculty and student involvement in the
reconciliation minor.
Video Extra: Kerry Dearborn discusses why the reconciliation minor is important for SPU to offer.
An Interview With SPU's First Lady
 For 14 years, SPU First Lady Sharon Eaton has served the Seattle Pacific community alongside her husband, President Philip Eaton, with hospitality and grace. And often from behind the scenes. Now she graciously takes center stage to share insights from her life at SPU.
What do you enjoy most about being SPU's First Lady?
I enjoy the people I get to meet and know. Our students are wonderful, and we have the best faculty and staff in the world! I feel very privileged to be in this place.
Can you tell us some ways you are involved in the SPU community?
I do a lot of entertaining for the University. We have students, faculty and staff members, board of trustee members, friends, guest speakers, and others into our home and on our campus for various events. Phil and I also meet with couples who might be interested in donating to the University, and we represent SPU at meetings across the country. It is a wonderful role.
Read more from this exclusive interview with SPU First Lady
Sharon Eaton.
SPU Moms Share the Journey
 On November 7, SPU's Parent Council hosted its first SPU Mom's Day. The theme for the day? "Sharing the Journey."
One hundred and twenty moms joined their students for a day of learning and laughing. From brunch with SPU First Lady Sharon Eaton to residence hall and athletic events, visiting mothers got a glimpse into the journeys their students are on at
Seattle Pacific.
"We were thrilled with the response to this first-ever SPU Mom's Day," says Linda Rowan, parent council president. "We're grateful for this opportunity to build community among SPU parents."
Read more about the event, including ways faculty members and students contributed.
Financial Aid Resolutions
 With 2010 fast approaching, it's time to think about your New Year's resolutions.
Jordan Grant, director of SPU's Student Financial Services office, offers five financial aid-related resolutions you may want to add to your list.
Resolution #1: File the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
The FAFSA form is available starting on January 1, 2010. Even if your student doesn't feel he or she will qualify it's important to file the form. SFS wants to make sure they can provide all available resources
to students.
Read more tips for financing your student's education.
In Our Next Issue
The Gift of Giving
Many parents of students are giving -- generously -- to Seattle Pacific University, the place where world change begins. What is their motivation? Find out in the March 2010 issue of In the Loop.
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Questions or Comments?
We'd love to hear from you. Let us know what's on your mind or how we can help.
Submit your questions and comments or email parents@spu.edu.
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