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The School for Continuing Education’s Major Steve Bradley and Captain Brain Saunders discuss upcoming Campus Without walls seminars. |
As the center for lifelong learning in the Western Territory, Crestmont College is designing a future with programs for learners of all kinds—second-language students, professionals needing certifications or advanced leadership training, high school graduates seeking a Christian education, off-site learners and others.
The newest offering from the college is locally held seminars provided by Crestmont’s Campus Without Walls. Coordinated by Captain Brian Saunders of the college’s School for Continuing Education, the program combines the flexibility and convenience of local classes with the standards and qualified instructors of a college.
“The idea is to get Crestmont out into the divisions,” says Lt. Colonel Raymond Peacock, Crestmont president/principal. “Scheduling and financial obstacles often hinder people from coming to campus. This way, we can bring the classes to them.”
Campus Without Walls is a cooperative effort. “The divisions tell us what subject matter and scheduling they need and we put together the package,” Saunders explained. “Our purpose is to be a resource for the territory.”
A key component is the opportunity to take the course as a stand-alone seminar or a college-credit class; all seminars are designed to meet Department of Education standards and college units earned through Crestmont are accredited and transferable. Delegates taking classes for credit typically have post-seminar assignments such as reading and research papers and receive grade cards.
The first Campus Without Walls event was held in January 2004 at Del Oro Divisional Headquarters in Sacramento, CA. “The Pastoral Care seminar held at DHQ…was a great success,” said Major Eda Hokom, divisional commander. “Dr. Jack Anderson and Major Cindy Lowcock challenged the officers to review, evaluate and improve their pastoral skills while teaching them practical methods of doing so. Many officers have requested more such seminars so that is our plan for the future.”
Nineteen officers attended the seminar, six for college credit. “Having it in the division made it possible for a lot of officers to take advantage of a great class,” said Major Pam Gardner, Concord corps officer.
According to Peacock, Crestmont’s mission is to provide for the educational needs of not just officers, but soldiers, employees and friends of the Army. “Each year we move closer to our vision for an open campus with something for just about everyone,” he says.
For information, please contact brian_saunders@usw.salvationarmy.org or (310) 544-6450.
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