Adjunct Faculty

Dr. Lorri Ague shares that “her mom sent her off to school and she never came back.” After high school she left for college where she earned her bachelor’s in education from Tennessee Temple University. This led her to the K-12 classroom where she taught physical education and English before earning her master’s degree in Education Administration and Supervision.

This created opportunity to teach education students who were pursing their college education. Several years ago, Dr. Ague changed the focus of her impact from the traditional classroom to the “classroom” of college administration. Wherever she serves, her passion is to create learning environments that motivate, educate, and develop learners in a community of Truth, excellence, and integrity that will have Eternal Impact.

Dr. Lorri stays engaged with advancing educational opportunities. Currently, she is serving as a substitute teacher for Continental Schools and the Sahuarita Unified School District while also contributing to Community STE(A)M Academy’s Academic Excellence Council. She was recently involved in the Santee School District serving on their Strategic Planning Committee. In the past along with her educational career, she served as the Secretary of Literacy First Charter School Board; was a past-President of the Christian Adult Higher Education Association (CAHEA); was involved with the San Diego Education Consortium (SDEC), and she is a Fellow of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities (CCCU) Leadership Institute.

One will often hear Dr. Lorri encouraging her colleagues and students with the “HE WHO” principle found in Philippians 1:3-6: “I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that HE WHO began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” In 2020, she and her husband, Dr. Paul Ague, retired President of San Diego Christian College, relocated to southern Arizona to enjoy retirement. Her life is fulfilled by enjoying her four adorable grandchildren—Elaina, Lilah, Barrett, and Lincoln—who are part of her family which includes her son Kyle and his wife Dana

Charles Allers

College of Biblical Studies
Lead Faculty

Dr. Charles (Chuck) Allers has served as a faculty member at Calvary Chapel University since 2015. He also serves part time as an associate pastor at The San Diego Branch Church in San Diego, California. Prior to The Branch, he was on the pastoral staff at Horizon Christian Fellowship for 22 years, serving as the pastor at one of Horizon’s satellite churches in San Diego, and also as the principal of Horizon High School from 2002-2003 (400 students, 75 staff/faculty).

His educational background includes a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Oklahoma in 1983; a Master of Divinity degree from Azusa Pacific University in 1994; a Doctorate of Ministry from Azusa in 1999; and a PhD in Islamic Studies from The University of Wales Trinity Saint David in 2011. His PhD dissertation was published in 2013 (Peter Lang Publishers) and is entitled The Evolution of a Muslim Democrat: The Life of Malaysia’s Anwar Ibrahim.

Chuck has been a volunteer chaplain with the American Red Cross (ARC) in the Spiritual Care Assistance Office since 1999 and, since 2008, has been a volunteer chaplain for the federal government’s Office of Emergency Services (OES) for San Diego County. He also completed the Basic Course for Critical Incident Stress Management through the International Critical Incident Stress Foundation (ICISF) in 1999.

Chuck has also served as a Professor of Ministry and Religion and Director of the Master of Divinity Program at Veritas Evangelical Seminary (Murrieta, CA) and as an Adjunct Professor at Azusa Pacific University’s Graduate School of Theology. He and his wife, Greta, live in San Diego, California.

Allers, Charles. Anwar Ibrahim: Evolution of a Muslim Democrat (Singapore: Monsoon Books, 2013).

_____. Anwar Ibrahim: Penampilan Demokrat Muslim (Selangor, Malaysia: Institut Darul Ehsan, 2017).

_____. “Anwar Ibrahim’s Long Road to Power,” New Lines Magazine, 01 December 2022 (https://newlinesmag.com/argument/anwar-ibrahims-long-road-to-power/, accessed 26 September 2023).

_____. “Anwar and Maqasid: Forging a Muslim Democracy.” In Sharia Dynamics: Islamic Law and Sociopolitical Processes,” edited by Daniels, Timothy F. (editor), 278-302. Hempstead, NY: Palgrave MacMillan, 2017.

Faculty

I arrived in Europe as a single missionary in 1998 and met my wife, Maria, a fellow-missionary, in 2000. During these years, we have had the privilege to live in the United Kingdom, Romania, and Italy, while serving in different capacities throughout Europe. Many of these years have focused on pastoral, discipleship, and teaching ministries. In 2016, when pastoring a church in Italy, I realized my own need to grow in the calling of a Biblical Counselor. More than ever I encountered the need to effectively use God’s Word to help others. This led to my pursuit to earn a doctorate in counseling from Liberty University and to become a Certified Biblical Counselor with the Association of Certified Biblical Counselors (ACBC). This also led to an awareness of the need to train and equip other pastors and church leaders with sound biblical truths. Today, my wife, three teenage kids, and I are based in Southwest England. In addition to co-laboring in a local church plant, we are committed to Biblical Counseling through training and helping others in missional contexts.

Garrett Cole

Garrett Nicholas Cole is a journalist, currently working for Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka. With a passion for storytelling, he has been honing his skills as a journalist since high school. Hailing from Garland, Texas, Garrett joined the Air Force in 2006 and served on active duty until 2010. After leaving active duty, he moved to Hawaii, where he lived with his family until 2021. Today, he resides in Japan with his wife and three boys. With a rich background and diverse experiences, Garrett brings a unique perspective to his work as a journalist.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Garrett is also deeply rooted in his spiritual life. He is driven by a strong sense of purpose and a desire to make a positive impact on the world. Through his writing and work, he strives to uplift and inspire others, always striving to live a life that is guided by his faith.

Growing up in a family where three career paths dominated – teaching, preaching, and law enforcement – Garrett’s spiritual foundation was established early on. On September 29, 1991, his grandfather led him to the Lord and since then, he has been actively involved in church life. Throughout his life, Garrett has had a strong connection with Calvary Chapel, first experiencing it while stationed in Japan at Calvary Chapel Tokorozawa. In Hawaii, Calvary Chapel was a cornerstone in his life and community. He and his wife were not only members, but she also worked as an educator at Calvary Chapel Christian School. Garrett’s faith continues to play a significant role in his life and drives his desire to positively impact the world through his work and relationships.

Faculty

Aloha! Education is one of my greatest passions. Be it a traditional degree, vocational study, or on-the-job training, I wholeheartedly believe in lifelong learning. What a privilege to have the freedom to partner and teach with Calvary Chapel University. And it’s a blessing to come alongside students and see how God will use their academic journey.

I was born and raised in Hawaiʻi. Now, with three boys, my husband and I get to bring them up in the islands too. When our family has a free moment, we often find ourselves at the beach to catch waves or explore the tidepools. It is a humbling opportunity to parent for Christ as I think He hopes to shape us just as much as He’s given us the responsibility to raise our children. So as beautiful as Hawaiʻi is, we aim to raise our sons to be Heaven-minded and mission-oriented. And it is a daily reminder for us to stay focused on the main thing–Christ.

Adjunct Faculty – Tim Cote

Tim and Carolyn Côté were introduced to Christ when they were high school sweethearts and attended Chuck Smith’s Calvary Chapel in the late 70’s. They were baptized in Pirate’s Cove in Corona Del Mar and were married by Chuck’s associate pastor, Romaine, in 1980. They’ve been married for almost 45 years and have 4 married children and 8 grandchildren. Tim has taught and led the Body of Christ in different capacities since coming to Christ and enjoys encouraging and interacting with fellow believers. Carolyn is a certified Biblical counselor (through CCU) and ministers to folks through their church’s Counseling Center Ministry.

Currently, Tim serves as Chairman of the Board of Elders at their local church in Santa Maria and holds a Master’s in Biblical Studies from CCU.

“We love the Body of Christ, and seeing Him formed in others is our greatest joy.”

Faculty – Lori Decker

Lori Decker has had the privilege of working in education for over 25 years, first as an elementary classroom teacher and more recently as the Director of Curriculum and Instruction at a Christian school in the Bay Area. In her current role, she enjoys designing and delivering professional development, overseeing curriculum review, and mentoring teachers. In addition, she works to maintain and coordinate the school’s accreditation process. She also serves on the board of the Sun Valley Eagle Christian Academy in Hailey, Idaho, as a school consultant. She holds a B.S. in Human Development from the University of California at Davis, M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction from Seattle Pacific University and is currently working on her Doctorate in Educational Leadership. In her free time, she enjoys outdoor adventures with her husband, two young adult children, and Australian Shepherds, including hiking, camping, and beach exploring. Lori considers it a privilege to work in Christian higher education, making disciples and teaching with a Biblical worldview.

Faculty

Hello. My name is Autumn and I am excited to join the CCU family. I finished my masters from CCU in Biblical Studies and Counseling last spring 2020. I am currently a 4th grade teacher as well in Colorado. I have a daughter, Madison who is almost 13 and two stepsons ages 15 and 19. We enjoy doing things as a family such as traveling, going to movies, and camping. I am excited to mentor other students in growing closer to the Lord through the courses at CCU.

Faculty – Kristen Dunphy

Kristen Dunphy holds a Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics and Psychology from Rutgers University, a Master of Education in Math Education K-12 from Rutgers University, and a Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from Liberty University. She is a certified teacher and works in northern New Jersey. In regards to teaching, Kristen enjoys Titus 2:7-8 (ESV): “Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity, and sound speech that cannot be condemned, so that an opponent may be put to shame, having nothing evil to say about us.” Kristen is married to her husband, Nick, whom she met while at a discipleship home group for their church in New Jersey. They have a mini dachshund, Homie, and love to go camping, host dinners for their community, serve in youth group, and sample coffee wherever they go!

Dr. Carolyn Eckert

Carolyn Eckert is the Jr./Sr. High School Vice Principal of Academics at Calvary Christian Academy in Philadelphia. Carolyn earned a B.S. in Elementary Education & B.S. in Bible at Philadelphia College of Bible, M.Ed. in Educational Technology at Rosemont College, and Ed.D. in School Administration at Calvary Chapel University. She has worked as a classroom teacher at CCA for seven years in a variety of middle school settings before becoming a vice principal. Carolyn has served as CCA’s vice principal for 19 years. A significant component of her job responsibilities at CCA is oversight of curriculum, scheduling, and accreditation. Carolyn works collaboratively with her teachers to make sure that their course descriptions and curriculum guides clearly express the school’s mission and objectives and are in line with accreditation standards. In her free time, Carolyn likes to write, run, and read, but never all three at the same time. She has two parents, three brothers, three sister-in-laws, and nieces and nephews that she adores.

Reflections of a Mind Dweller: How I Found God in the Middle of My Worries and Fears Kindle Editionby Carolyn Eckert (Author) Format: Kindle Edition

Adjunct Faculty

Jason Falzarano completed his Bachelor of Theology from Trinity Biblical University and also holds his Master of Theological Studies degree and a Master of Arts in Christian Apologetics from Veritas Evangelical Seminary. He is currently a professor in the Biblical Studies department at Calvary Chapel University.

Jason was ordained in 1999 by the Bible Fellowship Church denomination and served as a Youth Minister in one of its churches for three years. Upon leaving the BFC, he became the Assistant Pastor of Calvary Chapel New Brunswick in 2004. In 2007, Pastor Daniel Fusco ordained Jason and the Board of Elders promoted him to the position of Lead Pastor. He has been happily pastoring in New Jersey ever since.

Jason married his high school sweetheart, Lynda Ann Hall, in the Spring of 2000. They have one daughter, Jenna Marie, and one son, Joshua David. The Falzarano’s reside in beautiful North Brunswick, New Jersey.

In addition to pastoring and teaching, Jason has a deep passion for seeing college students trained and discipled to become effective leaders! He can often be found speaking at Cru meetings and other college style Christian ministries around New Jersey. Jason has recently began working on his Doctor of Ministry degree with the Antioch School of Church Planting and Leadership Development.

Faculty

Chris Figueroa serves as Associate Pastor at Living Word Community Church in Dumont, New Jersey, where he oversees teaching ministries, discipleship development, and theological education. His ministry focuses on equipping believers to think biblically, live faithfully, and serve effectively within their local church and community. Chris received his Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies, and two Master of Arts degrees in Biblical Theology and Biblical Counseling from Calvary Chapel University, where he currently teaches courses on Hebrews and Isaiah as an Adjunct Faculty Member. He is also pursuing a Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.) degree at Calvary Chapel University.

Janice Fritchman

Janice has been in administration at Calvary Christian Academy since 1999. Prior to moving into Administration, Janice taught 6th grade. She has a master of science in Educational Administration from University of Scranton. In her spare time, Janice enjoys reading, being at the beach and spending time with her family. Her life verse is Romans 8:28 “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.”

Faculty

Dr. Bob Franquiz (Ph.D., Liberty University) is the Founding and Senior Pastor of Calvary Fellowship in Miramar, FL. Bob is also the author of seven books, including Pull: Making Your Church Magnetic and Begin: First Steps for the Journey of Faith. Before entering Pastoral ministry, Bob played guitar for the Christian Hardcore band Strongarm, which has been called one of the best Christian Metal bands of all time. Prior to planting Calvary Fellowship, Bob served as an assistant pastor at Calvary Chapel Fort Lauderdale, one of the largest churches in the U.S. Bob also holds a Ph.D. in Bible Exposition from Liberty University and a master’s degree in theological studies from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. Most importantly, Bob considers his most significant achievement to be marrying his “just out of high school” sweetheart, Carey, in 1997. Together, they have three beautiful children, Mia, Alexander, and Olivia.

Faculty

Kristie Gallagher grew up at Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa she met her husband Jim in the high school group and they have been married 32 years. They have four grown sons. Together they have served the Lord in youth ministry, in missions and at CCVB. Along with raising her children and assisting her husband Kristie oversees the women’s ministry. She received her Master’s degree from CCU in 2020. Kristie’s greatest desire is to both grow in Christ and see others grow in and serve the Lord.

Faculty – Dr. Valerie Hall

Dr. Hall was a university professor in Indiana for 18 years. During that time, she taught undergraduate and graduate courses in reading, language arts, and children’s literature for elementary preservice teachers. For each of those courses, she supervised a practicum in the schools. She also taught an introduction to exceptional needs and content reading for secondary preservice teachers. In addition to her teaching, she coordinated student teaching. As a professor on tenure track, she presented at conferences and published in professional journals until she became a full professor. During this time, she used her school breaks to work with missionaries in schools in Haiti, Puerto Rico, Panama, Nicaragua, Mexico, Chile, and Peru. Before she earned her doctorate and began her university teaching, she taught elementary and worked with homeschooling families. After moving to Florida, she taught high school English at Calvary Christian Academy for one year. Then she went with a group of teachers from CCA to be the ESE Specialist at a startup charter school in Pompano Beach. The last three years she was the Academic Dean at Trinity Christian Academy in Lake Worth, Florida. Dr. Hall began working with Calvary Chapel University when she was teaching at CCA. She worked on curriculum for three years before CCU moved its on site location, and Dr. Hall moved north of Fort Lauderdale. She is excited to again be working with CCU in academics. It is amazing how God has worked to develop CCU into the exciting and impactful university that it is today.

Professional Journal Publications:

*Hall, V., and Pierson, V. (2012). Service learning for elementary school candidates in an alternative high school. Indiana Reading Journal, 44 (2), 26-29.

*Hall, V. (2011). Manipulatives, motivation, and multiculturalism. Indiana Reading Journal, 43(2), 19-21.

*Hall, V. (2010). Process writing for a literate life. Indiana Reading Journal, 43(1), 24-27.

Hall, V. (2010). A heart for Haiti: From knowledge to social action. Indiana Reading Journal, 42(1), 6-9. (Invited publication)

*Hall, V. (2007). Personal writings as a window: A Haitian example. Indiana Reading Journal, 39(1), 9-16.

Hall, V. (1999). God’s vision for teacher training in Haiti. Mission People. (Invited)

*Hall, V. G. (1996). Easy ways to teach values through children’s literature. Journal of Children’s Literature, 22(2), 6-8.

*Hall, V. G. (1996). A qualitative study of the literacy environment in one home school setting. In E. G. Sturtevant & W. M. Linek (Eds.), Growing Literacy: The eighteenth yearbook of the College Reading Association (pp. 256-268). Commerce, TX: Texas A & M University.

Publication of Christian Life Club, curriculum for children’s programs in church. I wrote some components, edited some, and assisted through the publishing process with Light and Life Communications.

Jan. 2005 – Chapel Moments book 6, wrote

Nov. 2001 – Chapel Moments book 3, wrote

Jun. 2000 – Director’s Guide, wrote and edited

May 2000 – PathFinder (1st & 2nd grades) Activity Book, edited recreation & crafts

May 2000 – TrailBlazer (3rd & 4th grades) Activity Book, edited recreation & crafts

May 2000 – PaceSetter (5th & 6th grades) Activity Book, edited recreation & crafts

May 2000 – catalog of books and supplies, wrote and edited

Faculty – Dr. Marisa Jenkins

Dr. Jenkins is a wife and mother who answered the call to ministry later in life. She is actively involved in women’s ministry at Desert View Bible Church, where she teaches and leads women, encouraging them to handle the Word of Truth accurately. In 2021, Marisa graduated from Calvary Chapel University with a Master of Arts in Biblical Studies, with an emphasis in Women’s Ministry. She then continued her studies, completing her PhD in Practical Theology at Columbia International University in 2024. Her dissertation topic, “Exploring the Psalms of Personal Lament for Women Living with Chronic Pain,” is a subject that is personally impactful to her because of her own experiences with Rheumatoid Arthritis. Marisa received her Bachelor’s degree from Biola University and holds a Certificate in Biblical Hebrew from Reformed Theological Seminary. Marisa lives in Phoenix, Arizona, with her husband of 20+ years and their teenage son. In her free time, she enjoys reading great books on theology and classic literature and searching for treasures while antique shopping.

Faculty

Tabitha felt called to ministry and teaching as a teen, and the Lord has allowed her to serve in many areas. She was saved at age 4 1/2 when she heard the gospel given in a children’s ministry training class. She attended CCBC Murrieta from 1999-2000, later receiving her Bachelor of Science in Religion from Liberty University in 2012 and her Master of Arts in Biblical Counseling from Calvary Chapel University in 2019. She is Certified with IABC. Ministry experience includes Stateside and Overseas Missions, Children’s/Youth Ministry Director, Biblical Counseling, Professor, Speaker, and College Internship Director. In 2021, she and her husband Jamie created Edify KidMin, a mission to serve the Local Church through Children’s Ministry Workshops—training, encouraging, and equipping the church to reach boys and girls with the gospel. All glory to God! She is blessed to teach and minister with CCU.

Adjunct Faculty

Josh Luecht has served as a student pastor, associate and teaching pastor at Calvary Chapel Palm City, Florida since 2007. He holds a M.A. in Biblical Leadership from Calvary Chapel University. He is also a foster parent, musician and reading enthusiast. In his spare time he enjoys watching hockey and baseball, Star Wars, and hanging out with his wife. He has been married to Mary since 2012.

Adjunct Faculty

Christine Marsh is a co-founding team member of Calvary Chapel University. In 2000 Christine was instrumental in designing the curriculum, developing the infrastructure of CCU from legal set up, to finance, HR and overall operations. She has continued in that role throughout her time with CCU.

Christine is also a CCU faculty member, (her true love). She earned her BS at Arizona State University and her MA at Calvary Chapel University.

Christine has three wonderful children (Cade, Zack and Cally), as well as a delightful dog named Indy! She can be seen on many end times blogs, is a voracious student of eschatology and prophecy and is a well regarded speaker in her own right.

Faculty – Mariah Martin

Mariah finds walking with the Lord a joy and an adventure. She graduated with a BFA in acting from Abilene Christian University, received a fashion design certificate from the London College of Fashion, studied at the Arts Students League in New York City, is an artist with the Premier Arts Collective, and holds a Master’s in Biblical Studies in Biblical Counseling from Calvary Chapel University. Mariah lives in New York City, where she currently works at the Geneva School of Manhattan and ushers at a nearby theatre for fun. She seeks to steward creativity as a way to connect with others and help build bridges among them.

Chief Academic Officer

Rick married his wife Annette in 1990 and they have 1 son, 4 daughters, 2 son-in-laws, and 3 grandsons. Rick began walking with the Lord as a teenager and has given his life to Christian ministry and education over the past 32 years. He has a passion to equip families with practical strategies to live out the gospel message and he loves partnering with parents to reach the heart of this emerging generation. Serving as the chief academic officer at Calvary Chapel University allows Rick to work with those who have a similar passion and he considers it a privilege to serve Christ with a team of people committed to equip the body of Christ in Biblical Truth and practical strategies. Rick values authenticity and simply seeks to love God and love others as he walks this journey called life. His life verse is “Trust in the Lord with all of your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your paths” Proverbs 3:5&6.

Education

Eastern Mennonite University BA with a K-8 teaching certification

Columbia International University MEd. in School Administration

Columbia International University PhD in Educational Leadership

Adjunct Faculty

Dr. John Milone- or Johnny as he prefers to be called- is a full-time teacher and guidance counselor at Calvary Academy in Lakewood, NJ. Having been homeschooled from kindergarten through 12th grade, he never envisioned becoming a teacher. He earned two B.A.’s in political science and journalism at Rowan University. However, feeling led by the Lord toward Christian education, he embraced this calling, earning a master’s degree in education followed by a second master’s in his favorite subject—history, both from Liberty University. In 2024, he earned his Doctorate of Education in Curriculum and Instruction also from Liberty University.

Johnny married his best friend, Jocelyn, in 2022, and together they share a passion for traveling (they are currently on a mission to visit all 50 states) and ministry. In 2020, they co-founded PoliticsInAction, a ministry designed to teach students aged 8–18 about politics and government from a Christian and constitutional perspective. What began with just six students has grown into a thriving program serving over 125 students. Jocelyn is also an educator and is currently the PreK teacher at the same school as Johnny. They currently live in historic Freehold Township, NJ, and have seven cats and three dogs.

Collin Monger

Collin was saved as a young child in a Baptist church’s VBS but it was not until he became an
adult that his spiritual life began growing. When he asked his wife out for their first date, she
suggested they go to church at Calvary Chapel. It was there that Collin’s spiritual life began to
develop. Eventually, this would lead Collin away from corporate America and into Bible
College, then Seminary, and eventually the ministry.

Now, Collin is the lead pastor of Shepherd of the Hills Calvary Chapel in southeast Pennsylvania.
He is also the lead teacher of Light the Way, a syndicated radio ministry southeastern PA. He
authored two books, holds a BA and MA in Biblical Studies, an MBA, a Juris Master of
compliance law, and a Doctorate in Theology.

In addition to the ministry, Collin is a husband and father. He enjoys spending time with his
family, gardening, woodworking, riding his Harley Davidson, and other outdoor activities. He
volunteers with his local fire department, serves as one of the township auditors where he
lives, and as the president of Sons of Thunder Motorcycle Club – a faith-based motorcycle club
dedicated to providing a Christlike influence in the MC culture.
Collin has served with CCU since 2020, teaching and designing several courses, and previously
with other Bible Colleges.

KATHY MORALES is a pastor’s wife, Bible teacher, and author who is committed to teaching the uncompromised truth of God’s Word. She is the women’s ministry director at Fervent Church and has been a pastor’s wife and ministry leader since 1998. Kathy teaches God’s Word in a relevant, inspiring, and practical way at retreats and conferences around the world.

A graduate of Calvary Chapel University, Kathy holds a Master of Divinity degree as well as a Doctorate in Education from Liberty University. Kathy and her husband, Jimmy, were married in 1991 and together have three adult children and three precious grandchildren.

Although raised in the Bible belt of America, Kathy didn’t begin to understand Christianity until 1989 when God moved her to Las Vegas, Nevada. It was in “Sin City” where Kathy fully surrendered her life to Jesus and learned what it meant to live for His glory. When Kathy isn’t writing, traveling, or speaking she enjoys photography, tap dancing, and being with friends and family. Long walks on the beach, scuba diving, and great worship music are some of her greatest delights.

Published Bible Studies:

· Caught Up: Living for Jesus in the Last Days: An Inductive Bible study on 1 and 2 Thessalonians

· For Such a Time as This: Inspiration, Faith, Courage: An Inductive Bible Study on the Book of Esther: A Play in Ten Acts

Website: https://needtoknowministries.com/

Faculty – Dr. Will Renzema

Dr. Renzema began his Christian Service as a charter member of the Continental Singers as a singer, soloist, and tour director. He was also a member of a professional Christian music group called the Spurrlows. Then he worked for Youth For Christ as city-wide director of their Campus Life program in Portland Oregon. He worked as music director and worship leader for various churches for 65 years, including worship leader for Menifee Calvary Chapel in California, which became Revival Church. He currently attends The Bridge Church in Murrieta California and has for 10 years. He sang on their worship team up until COVID. Dr. Renzema spent his young adult years concentrating on reading and understanding scripture. In 1990, he went back to school at the University of La Verne in La Verne, California. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in about two years and graduated cum laude as a member of Psi Chi, the national honor society for studies in Psychology. He obtained departmental honors and presented his senior research project at the Western Psychological Association convention in Portland, Oregon in 1992.

Dr. Renzema chose to go to a secular school for his education so he could use his earlier grounding in Biblical studies to help him understand the way psychology leads Christians away from the truths of scripture. He later earned a masters degree in Counseling Psychology from California Baptist University in Riverside, California. He was then hired as a supervisor with Riverside County, California Child Protective Services and worked there for 12 years. During that time Dr. Renzema completed the requirements and became a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. He has now held that license for 19 years. During this process, Dr. Renzema has always made the principles taught in scripture as the final authority for what he believed and as the guidance for his counseling.

In 1992, Dr. Renzema’s first marriage ended after 24 years at the choice of his first wife. Dr. Renzema then became a single parent of two teenagers for four years. In 1995, he was introduced by close Christian friends to his current wife, Rhonda. Dr. Renzema and Rhonda have now been married for 26 years. They have seven children in common, but none that they share between them. They have 31 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren.

Dr. Renzema returned to school in 2008 and earned a doctorate degree in counseling from Capella University. It should be emphasized that during all of his educational experiences, everything he learned was judged as true or not according to the principles taught in scripture. Dr. Renzema has taught at Azusa Pacific University and at Calvary Chapel Bible College, with acclaim.

Senior Pastor

David Reynolds is the Senior Pastor of Engage Calvary in College Station, Texas. He has been in ministry for 25 years, almost 15 years as Senior Pastor and over 10 years as Worship Pastor at Calvary Austin. Much of this time was spent in bi-vocational ministry. David also works as a Business Coordinator at Texas A&M University. David graduated from Southwest Texas State University (now Texas State University) in 1989 with a B.A. in Psychology. He received a M.A. in Biblical Studies from Calvary Chapel University in 2018. David came to Christ while in college, and soon began playing guitar in a Christian rock band. It was not long after this time that he met his wife, Heather. They eventually started another band, and for several years did concerts in Austin and around Texas. Their heart was to share Christ through the songs they had written, and the testimony of what God had done in their lives. Outside of ministry, David enjoys spending time with his family, hiking, swimming, biking, and playing the guitar. David and Heather have been married for over 31 years and have two adult daughters.

Dr. Romero has over 30 years of experience in the education field with a Bachelor of Science degree in Bible and Secondary Education from Calvary Bible College and a Master in Human Relations from the University of Oklahoma. She concurrently serves as an online instructor, administrator, and board member for an online secondary school based in Connecticut while also serving at CCU. Debbie joined the CCU team in 2011 as a faculty member and the institution’s Accreditation and Compliance Coordinator. She has since risen the ranks to Chief Academic Officer. At CCU, she works closely with all institutional departments to maintain compliance with Accreditation, State Compliance, Academic Compliance, Data Analysis, and the Library. Her favorite scripture is Philippians 1:6: “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”

Joseph Smith

Joseph Smith: Lives on the East Coast in North East Florida with his wife of twenty years and his four children. He knew early in life that his calling was ministry. This calling sent him to Palm Beach Atlantic University where he graduated in 2003 with a Bachelors in Biblical Studies. Within a month of graduating, he was married and began nineteen years of pastoral ministry at Switzerland Community Church in Jacksonville, Florida. In 2013 he decided to enroll in the Masters of Divinity program at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary from which he graduated in 2017. In 2015, while serving at Switzerland Community Church, Joseph joined the ministry of ICS Missions (Indigenous Church Strategies). This ministry focuses on the saturation of the Gospel in Central and South America through the training and equipping of indigenous pastors, planting churches throughout their regions. In February 2022 he stepped down from his position at Switzerland Community Church to focus his time on the work abroad.

In his free time he enjoys spending time with his family, fishing, woodworking, mechanics, and pretty much anything outdoors.

Eric Souza

Eric is the pastor of Reach Church in Jacksonville, Florida. He was saved in Jr. High at at Calvary Chapel Camp after hearing Pastor Jim Gallagher speak. He is a CCU graduate. And now we are grateful to be adding him to our growing team of faculty here at CCU!

Faculty – Neil Spencer

Neil and his wife Cecilea live in Gulf Breeze, FL with their six children; Neil currently serves as the Lead Pastor of Coastline Gulf Breeze. Neil’s father, Pastor John Spencer planted New Life Christian Fellowship (currently known as Coastline Gulf Breeze) in their hometown of Gulf Breeze in 1983 after being introduced to the Calvary Chapel Movement and encouraged to plant through his relationship with Pastor Ray Bentley of Maranatha Chapel in San Diego, CA. Neil has served in various roles of ministry since 2002 including Family/Student ministry with Pastors Ricky Ryan & Britt Merrick at CC Santa Barbara, CA (‘02-‘05); trained with Pastor Jon Courson at Courson’s Pastoral Training School in Applegate, Oregon (‘06); served at Coastline GB in pastoral/administrative ministry (‘06-‘12); planted and pastored Coastline Destin from 2010-2019, and was installed as the Lead Pastor of Coastline Gulf Breeze in September of 2020. Neil earned his BBS from Calvary Chapel Bible College in Murrieta, CA in 2005, an MA in Biblical Studies with a focus on Biblical Leadership from Calvary Chapel University in 2018, and an mDiv with Calvary Chapel University in 2022.

Dr. Cody Thompson

Dr Cody Thompson has been a physical therapist since January 2005. He has spent the majority of his clinical career working with complex geriatric patients in Home Health Physical Therapy. He has served as an educator in his field and as a state-level administrator over healthcare education in the State of Alabama. He currently serves as the online PhD in Health Sciences program director with Faulkner University in Montgomery, AL. Dr Thompson has a Doctorate in Physical Therapy, and is a student with Calvary Chapel University in the Doctor of Education program. He has been married since 2007, and has four daughters and one son. Hobbies are being outdoors, the beach, exercise, reading, and teaching families how to grow healthier into God’s holistic design.

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Give Us This Day: A 31-Day Devotional for Healthcare Providers Paperback –July 10, 2023 by Dr Cody Thompson (Author)

Peer Reviewed Publications:

(Published, 2022): “Lifetime Considerations of Return on Investment of Careers in Healthcare”, Journal of Rehabilitation Practices and Research, Author: Cody Thompson, PT, DPT, GCS

(Published, Aug 2022): “Comparison of the Validity of the Timed Up and Go Test (TUG) and Activities-specific Balance Confidence Questionnaire (ABC) to the ‘Gold Standard’ Berg Balance Scale (BBS) in Assessing Fall Risk in the Elderly Population”, Journal of Rehabilitation Practices and Research, Authors: Hunter Leger, SPT, Reagan Tittle, SPT, Sankela Dowdell, SPT, Cody Thompson, PT, DPT, GCS

(Published, September 2020): “Rehabilitation Considerations for Post-Surgical Patients During the COVID-19 Crisis”, Annals of Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, Author: Cody Thompson, PT, DPT, GCS

(Published March 2020): “Differential Diagnosis and Clinical Decision Making in Physical Therapy: Case Report of a Complex Cardiac Patient”, Journal of Rehabilitation Practices and Research, Author: Cody Thompson, PT, DPT, GCS

Peer Review and Editorial Board Service:

Journal of Rehabilitation Practices and Research (Editorial Review Board, articles x 3)

“Interprofessional Collaborations: Delivering Quality Home Care Services to Patients Who are Elderly” (reviewed 2021)

Annals of Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy (Editoral Review Board)

Adjunct Faculty – Rebecca Thornburg

My husband and I met in High school and have been married for 22 years. We have four amazing kids. Over the years I have been blessed to be a part of mission trips to Ireland, leading youth group, small group teaching and women’s groups. I also run a Non-profit for Biblical counseling. I have completed my bachelors and masters degree from Calvary Chapel University finishing with a MABS. I am looking forward to more opportunities to share the Lord with others at CCU.

Faculty – Erik Wade

Erik serves as the Campus Pastor of Sunrise Church Banning Campus in Southern California. He has been in ministry since the age of 15, serving in various roles and various church and parachurch ministries. In 2009 Erik entered bi-vocational ministry, working in Children’s and youth ministry, and in 2017 went fully vocational by joining the staff at Sunrise church as the Next Gen Pastor of the Banning Campus. In 2022, Erik became the Campus pastor, overseeing the English Campus of Sunrise Church Banning. Erik holds an Associate’s Degree From Calvary Chapel Bible College (2003), A Bachelor of Biblical Studies Degree from Trinity Biblical University (Horizon University)(2018), A Master of Biblical Studies – Christian Leadership Degree from Calvary Chapel University (2022), and a Master of Divinity Degree- Christian Leadership from Calvary Chapel University (2025). Erik currently resides in Southern California. He is married to his High School Sweetheart and together they have 2 daughters.

Adjunct Faculty

Don Welch has been a follower of Jesus for 51 years! Growing up Don ran tour boats through the Soo Locks in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan as part of his family’s tourism business. It is a harsh, cold winter with not a lot of people around, but in that small-town Don encountered Christ during the Jesus Movement in the early 70’s! Don has split his career between ministry and teaching serving as a Senior Pastor and High School History teacher. He is an elder at Calvary Chapel Palm City, Florida Don holds a M.A. in Biblical Leadership from Calvary Chapel University. In his spare time he enjoys boating, professional wrestling and Detroit sports. Don and Ruth have been married since 1982

Faculty

Dr. Eliel Hinojosa, Jr. is an educator, teacher educator, and curriculum specialist whose career has included service as a K–12 classroom teacher, instructional coach, and university faculty member. He earned his Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction from Texas A&M University. His teaching and scholarship focus on curriculum and instruction, social studies and history education, teacher preparation, and community-engaged learning. Much of his work centers on the power of stories – using history, oral history, and the experiences of individuals and communities to help students better understand the past and their place in it. Eliel and his wife, Cecilia, share their home with their three dogs, Abilene, Cassidy, and Bandit. He and Ceci have served in worship ministry since 2008 and consider his faith foundational to both his personal and professional life. They currently attend Engage Calvary in College Station, Texas. He is also enjoys photography as another way of documenting people, places, and the stories they carry. He is excited to join the Calvary Chapel University community and contribute to its mission of Christ-centered higher education.