National Library Week 2006

Essay Contest Winners

 

44 students from all schools and all levels at Regent submitted essays on the topic: "The library's role in helping to achieve Christian leadership to change the world."

 

1st place Keren Chisaki, Regent Undergrad, Communication* (see below)

2nd place Mark Hardgrove, PhD student, Leadership Studies

 

3rd place Nathaniel Pierce, School of Law

Honorable Mention Ingrid Sell, School of Law

Many thanks to the essay contest judges, Dr. Beth Doriani from Regent Undergrad, Leanne Hillary, Library Faculty in the School of Law, and Harold Henkel, Library Faculty at the University Library.

 

Many thanks to the following schools for contributing to the cash prizes: Law, Government, Leadership, Psychology and Counseling and Divinity.

* The library's role in helping to achieve "Christian leadership to Change the World"        by Keren A. Chisaki The library is more than just a repository of knowledge where books and the carefully archived past are laid to rest for future generations. Instead, it is the inspiration of past thought, compiled and catalogued with care, made available for the thinkers of today. It promotes investigation, critical thinking and stimulation for the future leaders of the world.   Along with the power to inspire new ideas and thoughts, the library holds the knowledge which shapes the ideals being taught and learned at Regent University . By broadening the perspective of students with its wide range of material, the library challenges long held beliefs while providing a place to search for answers. Therefore, the fundamental responsibility of the library is to honor, promote, and encourage the pursuit of the truth.   Jesus said, in John 8:31-32 (NIV), "If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." By striving to become a "leading center of Christian thought and action," Regent University Library has committed itself as an investor in the education of every budding Christian leader who uses its resources. From the high priority of the library staff to exhibit Christian principles in their every action to the excellence of the materials provided, Regent University Library supports the mission of Regent University by providing a vital resource for the formation of Christian leaders who will change this world.

 

  There were many notable comments and sentiments from the 44 essays submitted. Below are some of the statements that best support the essay contest topic:

"It is in the libraries, where silence is stressed and quiet meditation is encouraged, that the voices of the ages speak." (Mark Hardgrove, Phd, Leadership)

"The library equips those called to change the world for Christ with those words that can explain and transform the human experience." (Nathaniel Pierce , Law)

"Modern-day Daniels will find their source of learning and leadership in today's Libraries." (Ingrid Sells Kalinowski, Law)

"Our life will be transformed when we drink from the fountain of learning. Regent students are privileged to have an opportunity to blend learning with high-quality resources." (Chelsea Kelly, MBA)

"Thus, the librarians not only teach students how to research effectively once they become leaders, but they teach them how to act as leaders." or "The library offers so many ways for students to learn to research effectively." (Christina Slater, Law)

"The Library can be likened to that of a gatekeeper through which all who wish to arrive at the Royal Palace must pass, and to which is granted the exclusive obligation of offering proper direction and guidance for all the journeys it must necessarily facilitate." (Christopher Kuzma, masters, Divinity)

"And just as the Bible commands us to: 'Go ye, therefore, into all the world, preaching the good news...,'' The Regent University Library informs, equips, and enables us to do so." (Coralee Benjamin, masters, RSGV)

"While church buildings are designed as places of communal and vocal worship, the library occupies the distinctly vital role of a haven for personal and quiet worship."(Elliott James Pernula)

"the library reminds students to be prepared to face the world beyond these walls - where ideas influence reality and where souls need to be saved." (Emily Smith, Law)

"Not all readers lead, but all leaders read." (Jason Parrish, masters, Communication)

"The library's collection has helped me to find my own voice and plan to change the world, while listening to the whispers of Christian leaders who have already done the same." (John Balonze, Law)

"How then can a Christian leader change the world? One answer is 'read to lead' " (Joy Ahn, SUGS, Leadership)

"The library enables us to find power to change our Nation, as well as the world by enabling us to ask questions and find answe! rs to the problems of our minds and our souls. That process produces leaders who will change the world in the name of Christ." (Kasi Bowles, PsyD)

"The library clearly plays a vital role in educating and supporting a well-rounded Christian leader who is determined to change the world." (Zack Hofstad, Law)

"The helpful library staff exemplifies servant leadership with their availability and resourcefulness." (Lynda Seijas, masters, Communication)