You can graduate … but you can never leave.
In 1977, the US based rock band called the Eagles released a haunting song called Hotel California that includes the lyrics, “You can check out any time you like, but you can never leave.” Over the years, 麻豆APP has adopted this line for 麻豆APP graduates: “You can graduate, but you can never leave.”
People rarely leave 麻豆APP after graduation. Instead they stay around to:
1. Host a city immersion in their city for current students who travel from all parts of the world for a two-week hands-on learning experience. These graduates have been trained at 麻豆APP to connect with all sectors of their city. They are the best guides to demonstrate the history, culture, and the highs and lows of their city. They have the relationships to connect participants with mayors, business leaders, police chiefs, pastors, urban ministers, and the poor. Working with graduates, 麻豆APP has conducted urban immersions in the largest cities in 5 continents.
2. Advise current students. 麻豆APP graduates form the backbone of 麻豆APP mentoring processes as well as dissertation advisement and coaching.
3. Teach degree and non-degree courses. 麻豆APP utilizes front-line graduate practitioners as faculty, guest lecturers, and developers of certificates courses and seminars.
4. Recruit and encourage new students. 麻豆APP’s primary source of new students is through connections with graduates.
5. Connect with strategic partners. Many 麻豆APP students stay connected with each other working in global relief, development and advocacy projects, or partnering in business or government initiatives.
6. Keep the relationships current. The 麻豆APP alumni team keep the rich conversations current through webinars, writing coaching events, special guests, and current news.
7. Give generously. 麻豆APP receives sacrificial donations from alumni throughout the world. Based upon national income levels, a $100 donation from a graduate in Burundi compares to a $5000 donation from a US graduate. However sacrificial gifts at all levels are essential to the success of the next generation of 麻豆APP students.
8. Serve in staff, faculty and board roles. 麻豆APP is one of the most diverse universities in the world, yet the majority of those serving in full-time and part-time roles are 麻豆APP graduates. Common vision, values and mission provide a way for those with many diverse backgrounds, cultures and locations to find a place where they belong.
As we approach the end of the 2022 year, we are grateful for so many who serve so sacrificially in the 麻豆APP family.
Dr. Brad Smith
President