Having worked at Spring Arbor University for over 30 years and transitioned from student life into advancement more recently, what has been the most rewarding part of your current role?

During my years in Student Life at SAU, I witnessed firsthand the transformational impact that Christ-centered people and programs had on students. In my current role, I now have the privilege of meeting with alumni who experienced that same transformation years ago. I enjoy listening to their stories—many going back to when Spring Arbor was still a two-year school—and hearing about life-changing relationships with faculty and staff. It is deeply gratifying to share with them that students are still being shaped for Christ at SAU today.

What has been one of your favorite memories or experiences at SAU over the years?

One memory that stands out goes back to an ice storm on campus in the 1990s (probably 1997). With the power out and the Dining Commons unable to serve meals, everyone gathered in the Ralph Carey Forum. Pizza was brought in, and since this was long before smartphones, students, faculty, and staff sat together in the glow of flashlights, listening to the basketball team play in the NAIA National Tournament on a battery-powered radio. When SAU won, the cheering was incredible. It was a simple but powerful moment that captured the closeness and spirit of community that makes Spring Arbor so special.

Along with moments like the one above, Student Leadership training was the best! I had the privilege of being part of 33 years of training alongside many outstanding leaders. I still remember Ron Kopicko, who as Assistant Dean in 1990 had way oversized T-shirts made in neon green and pink with the slogan “Crank It Up!”.

There were so many gifted staff members involved over the years—names like Carla Koontz, Mary Darling, Marion Glass, Sharon Joplin, Everett Piper, Oreon Trickey, Kim Hayworth, Damon Seacott, Bobby Pratt, Mary Rick, Michael Eatman, Robin Smith, Sam Riggleman, Eric Beda, Kristy Taylor, Brian Kono, and Carrie Williams will be familiar to many alumni.

The energy in a room full of young leaders who love Jesus and care deeply for others is something I’ll never forget.

Outside of your work at SAU, what are some hobbies or activities you enjoy in your free time?

I enjoy many outdoor activities including mountain biking, swimming, paddle boarding, and pickleball. A relatively new hobby for me is bird watching - my backpack often conceals a pair of binoculars in case any interesting bird lands nearby.

If you would like to connect with Dan, you can reach him at [email protected]