Catching Up with Proud Pioneers Q&A
It is a joy and privilege to stay connected with our graduates as they serve their churches, communities, and the world, especially during challenging times. We continue to see and hear the ways in which the Malone experience shapes their leadership efforts and compassion for others. Recently, we checked-in with a couple of graduates who lead and love in very different circles. Pictured below are Elizabeth Barkan '03 (left), band director at Fairless Local Schools, and Dr. Stan Anderson '80 (right), founder and president of Jackson Family Practice.
MU: Why did you choose to attend Malone?
EB: Growing up in rural Pennsylvania, I knew I wanted a Christian school with a marching band. After visiting a few schools near home, I knew I was “home” the second I stepped foot on Malone’s campus.
SA: Attending Malone is a family tradition for me! My parents worked there and my siblings (Marva Hoopes ’76 and Paul ’78) also attended. My wife Cathy ’86 graduated from Malone and our daughter Jocelyn ’14 and son Thane *19 attended, also.
MU: DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE MEMORY AT MALONE?
EB: When I moved back to Malone as a sophomore, Haviland Hall was brand new and the Quad was still a muddy mess. One day, we all decided to have a “mud party” and it was a blast! My suitemates and I had become well-acquainted with the grounds crew and talked them into making a few HUGE leaf piles for us.
SA: I was involved in almost every aspect of campus life and I know I made significant steps into adulthood while I was there. I enjoyed Chorale in particular.
MU: HOW DID YOUR TIME AT MALONE SHAPE YOUR PHILOSOPHY OF SERVING THE COMMUNITY?
EB: I recognize that my life might be “the only Bible someone reads.” Because of the faith-immersive atmosphere at Malone, I intentionally find ways to incorporate my faith into everyday life. I think one of the easiest ways to be Christ for others is to be truly kind. Currently, my students are participating in the #MissionRadicalKindness campaign.
SA: Malone helped me to see each person with a spark of divinity and showed me the value in treating everyone with the same sacred respect they are due.
MU: WHAT IS YOUR HOPE AND PRAYER FOR THE COMMUNITY AS WE WEATHER THE PANDEMIC?
EB: I 100% believe we are going to come out of this even stronger, more family-oriented, and as a unified community of believers.
SA: The coronavirus may have turned March madness into March sadness, but for people of faith we will have gladness because of our eternal Hope. I continue to serve my patients each day, because I want to help those who really need me. It’s who I am, it’s what I believe in. It’s Christ’s Kingdom First.
MU: WE ARE GRATEFUL FOR YOUR SUPPORT, BOTH FINANCIALLY AND OTHERWISE. WHY DO YOU SUPPORT MALONE’S MISSION?
EB: As a Malone graduate, I know I can’t place a dollar value on my experience. My only hope as I continue to give is that students will have an experience as meaningful as mine ... an experience you can only get from Malone!
SA: Malone is an amazing place that fulfills the calling of preparing future generations for His service.