New Church Life September/October 2016 | Page 78

new church life: september/october 2016 BASS truly made it evident why they were there: because they wanted to do all they could to make our time there incredible, while learning and practicing our New Church values. To anyone considering attending BASS, keep in mind that you seriously do make what you want of it. With the right attitude it can become an amazing, beautiful and unique time that you will never forget. The friends you will make there will carry on, being your friends across the seas and forever if you put the work in. True friendships are not determined by where you live, but by the love you share for one another. I was blessed to have gotten the chance to attend British Academy Summer School this past summer. I will never forget it. (See photos on page 487.) still growing at bryn athyn college Angella Irwin Marketing Communications Manager The 2015-16 academic year saw much forward movement in a variety of areas at Bryn Athyn College, and the 2016-17 year is in hot pursuit to out-do its predecessor. Our academic programs are expanding, new structures and facilities are being built, the academic profile of incoming students is enjoying an upward trend, a new associate faculty member has been hired, and we are reaching out and connecting more and more with alumni and friends. The education major at BAC has long been a staple of our academic offerings, and until recently we partnered with another university for our students to earn state certification. Those days are behind us, as this spring our Education Department submitted an application for certification and was approved by the Pennsylvania State Board of Education for early childhood education. The process was completed in what seemed like record time, and we expect to receive certification approval in special education later this year. The Building Arts Associate Degree is now available to students who wish to pursue a hands-on pre-professional experience in the areas of forging and stained glass. Studio courses in these disciplines are paired with the core liberal arts curriculum to deliver a solid Associate in Arts to graduates. A Data Sciences minor has also been added to the academic programming reflecting an increased need in the work force for employees who can gather and analyze data, create and interpret models, and optimize results. This minor combines mathematical, computer science and business applications. The College is excited to welcome Dr. Suzanne Nelson as a full-time employee. She assists multiple areas as assistant professor of Nutrition, Director of Sports Nutrition and Director of Career Education and Development. 484