CCO Campus Ministry

How a trip to Haiti changed the lives of Pitt student athletes

On April 26, 2013, 16 University of Pittsburgh student-athletes traveled to Cap Haitien, Haiti with CCO staff members Kelly Cooke and Mark Steffey to help serve at the EBAC Orphanage. As part of a trip initiated by the Coalition for Christian Outreach (CCO), nine female and seven male Pitt student-athletes climbed four miles up a [...]

 

CCO Geneva College staff members recognized with The Light Bulb Award

Geneva College’s Student Development Office recently recognized the Multicultural Student Services Office with “The Light Bulb Award,” naming the first-ever Living in Color conference the Best New Initiative and the Best Collaborative Project of the year. Living in Color was the brainchild of Kathy Kinzer-Downs and Lamont Downs, CCO staff members who partner with Geneva [...]

 

CCO staff member Erica Young Reitz to college graduates: There is life after college

There are a thousand things I’d love to say as you begin life in the post-college world. Things like: Learn to live on a budget, and don’t go into (any more) debt. Commit to a local church, even if the people there seem strange. Do your work with integrity because your work matters, even on [...]

 

Celebrating 40 years: the CCO’s ministry at Gannon University

In April 2013, First Presbyterian Church of the Covenant in Erie, Pennsylvania celebrated four decades of ministry to college students in partnership with the CCO. Because the church is located right on the edge of the Gannon University campus, Gannon students have naturally reaped the most benefits of this partnership by participating in the ministry [...]

 

Ohio Wesleyan University students grow in leadership and faith on spring break trips

“Real time” leadership and decision making. These are accurate descriptors of Ohio Wesleyan’s annual Spring Break Wilderness Trek program, now in its 12th year. And the 2013 trip—backpacking and kayaking in the Georgia Sea Islands and rock climbing and service in Joshua Tree National Park and Los Angeles—did not disappoint the 17 OWU students who participated, [...]

 

A humorous message for graduating college seniors

CCO staff member Sam Van Eman serves as a staff specialist and  also as the Young Professionals Editor at The High Calling.  His most recent High Calling post is a letter to graduating seniors. Just a little humor and encouragement for them: Dear College Senior, Graduation happens a week—maybe two—from today, and unless you’re planning to [...]

 

CCO student receives Fulbright Fellowship to study biochemistry in Vienna, Austria

When CCO staff members Lindsay Monihen and Lisa Hershey and tell Juniata College students that “everything matters to God,” they are quick to emphasize academics. “The Gospel just doesn’t change our hearts, it does much more and beyond our imaginations,” says Lindsay. “The resurrection brings hope of new life, redemption to places of creation, and [...]

 

Pitt students make history on Habitat spring break trip

In March 2013, 23 University of Pittsburgh students built the first-ever Habitat for Humanity house built entirely of American-made materials. CCO staff member Jonny Cagwin helped lead this group of Pitt students to Wilmington, North Carolina over spring break. As Jonny explains: Many students had never used a hammer, but together, we built a home [...]

 

CCO staff member Jamie Donne receives “Love Your City” Award

Each day at 6 a.m., CCO staff member Jamie Donne is part of a group that prays for Washington & Jefferson College, and for Washington County, Pennsylvania. Jamie was honored with the “Love Your City” Award at the Washington County Men’s Prayer Breakfast on Saturday, April 13 at 8am at the Meadowlands Mariott Hotel. Congratulations, [...]

 

Malone University students raise awareness of poverty, homelessness, hunger, and illiteracy

CCO associate staff member and Malone University resident director Stacy Utecht spearheaded a hunger awareness last week on campus. The goal was to educate students about three major concerns in the surrounding community of Canton, Ohio: poverty, homelessness and hunger, and illiteracy. Click here to read Malone students highlight hunger in the Canton newspaper, and check [...]

 

Ohio Wesleyan student glorifies God through her love of science

Cora Munroe is a junior at Ohio Wesleyan University and a runner-up in the 2013 Jubilee Article Contest sponsored by the CCO and The High Calling. Through my involvement with the CCO and the Jubilee Conference, I began to understand that I could glorify God though my major and future career. Last year, as a [...]

 

Online Auction: Bid high and support the CCO!

We invite you to participate in our first-ever Online Auction! Click here to bid on the seven online auction items and to preview what will be up for bid at our Next Generation Gala on April 26! Available in the Online Auction: Complete Amana Home Comfort System St. Thomas Adventure Geneva College Tuition (worth $10,000) [...]

 

How the CCO’s ministry helped Josh Pierce to be unashamed of his faith

Josh Pierce is a red-shirt sophomore on Kent State University‘s varsity baseball team. Even though he made a commitment to Jesus Christ as a child, by the time he started college, he hadn’t figured out what it meant to live that out. And then he started attending an athletes’ fellowship, led by CCO staff members [...]

 

Job Opening: Philadelphia Development Coordinator

The CCO (Coalition for Christian Outreach), a ministry to college students based in Pittsburgh, PA and working on more than 100 campuses located in seven states throughout the mid-Atlantic region, is seeking candidates to apply for the following position: Philadelphia Development Coordinator  The Philadelphia Development Coordinator will be responsible for spearheading fundraising and development work in [...]

 

CCO staff member Marcia Everett wins faculty award at Malone University

Congratulations to CCO staff member, Marcia Everett, PhD, who received one of three 2013  Distinguished Faculty Awards from Malone University. Marcia first joined CCO staff in 1984, and she now serves as professor of communication arts at Malone, where she has served as director of The College Experience since 1995. Click here to read more [...]

 

Slippery Rock student wins Jubilee Article Award

On Friday evening, February 15, 2013, Slippery Rock University student Brittany Tietje stood in front of hundreds of fellow college students in the Spirit of Pittsburgh Ballroom of the David L. Lawrence Convention Center. Shortly after the official kick-off of Jubilee 2013, she accepted the $1,000 grand prize from The High Calling for her exceptional [...]

 

Point Park University students embody the Parable of the Talents

The Rev. Rodger Woodworth, lead pastor of New City Church in downtown Pittsburgh and Director of Cross-Cultural Ministries for the CCO, enjoyed watching some Point Park University students learn by doing. For many college students, $100 is a lot of money. It could represent a month’s worth of snacks, a few nights out with friends [...]

 

Thoughts on ministering to international students

In his recent blog post, Tyler Ellis writes, “Approximately 20 million college students attend universities in the US and approximately one million of them are international students. …That means roughly one out of every 20 college students in the US is from another country!” Check out the rest of the blog post here: 9 reasons why [...]

 

Jubilee 2013: Kid President approved this conference

Have you seen the viral video of the pep talk from Kid President that has been making the rounds over the past few weeks? If not, click here to view it. Then check out the special video that Kid President made to welcome students to Jubilee 2013! You heard that right: Kid President approves this [...]

 

Jubilee 2013 according to Byron Borger

Byron and Beth Borger, owners of Hearts & Minds Bookstore in Dallastown, PA, have been the Official Booksellers of the Jubilee Conference for many years. Recently, they celebrated the 30th anniversary of opening their store, and they were recognized at Jubilee with a production number from the musical Les Miserables, based on the book of [...]

 

Jubilee: Students learn how to be change agents for Christ

“It was a great privilege to help Christian professionals and students think about lives of Christian faithfulness that extend beyond Sunday to each day of the week. Without question, Jubilee is one of the best conferences around,” said Vincent Bacote, associate professor of Theology and the Director of the Center for Applied Christian Ethics at [...]

 

What Jubilee 2013 speakers are saying

Want to know what some of this year’s Jubilee presenters think about this year’s conference? Tom Nelson, author of Work Matters: Connecting Sunday Worship With Monday Work, keynoted Jubilee Professional and also offered workshops at Jubilee 2013. He writes: “Coming home to a place I had never been before,” were the words of the poetic [...]

 

Jubilee 2013 in pictures

Thanks to everybody who traveled to Pittsburgh this past weekend to join us for Jubilee 2013! We hope you are discerning God’s call on your life to transform everything for the sake of His Kingdom. Stay tuned for more stories from the weekend. Meanwhile, enjoy some of the images photographer Andrew Rush captured of the conference.* [...]

 

Tweeting Jubilee 2013

Were you in Pittsburgh with us for Jubilee 2013? Do you wish you were? To relive some of the highlights, or to get a glimpse into some of the ways God worked in the lives of college students this weekend, check out the #Jubilee2013 Twitter feed. If you were at Jubilee, we’d love to hear [...]

 

What’s happening at Jubilee 2013?

The countdown continues…will you join us this weekend for Jubilee 2013? Check out the Jubilee 2013 program booklet to preview the schedule, to read about the speakers, and to see the full line-up of workshops and late night opportunities. We hope to see you Friday!

 

Future teachers and education majors invited to attend a special breakfast on Sunday morning at Jubilee

Planning on teaching, or are you an education major attending Jubilee 2013? Questioning the connection between faith and your vocation as a teacher? Thought about what it might look like to engage public education reform? Interested in talking to other Christians about this issue? Christians Investing in Public Education is an opportunity for future teachers [...]

 

The Jubilee vision: what is it?

Jubilee 2013 will take place this coming weekend, and we’re excited about sharing what we call “the Jubilee vision” with college students, offering them a path to serving God with their entire lives. This vision is sometimes referred to as a “reformational worldview.” Last week, CCO staff members Chris Ansell, Greg Burdette, Andy Moore, and [...]

 

Jubilee 2013: It might transform everything

(Pittsburgh) February 8, 2013 — During the weekend of February 15-17, 2013, hundreds of college students will descend on the David L. Lawrence Convention Center in Pittsburgh for the annual Jubilee conference hosted by the CCO (Coalition for Christian Outreach). Every February since 1978, Jubilee has taken place in Pittsburgh to give students opportunities to [...]

 

Jubilee 2013: online registration to close February 7

One weekend, more than 7+ speakers and workshops, 2,500 attendees…the only thing that might be missing at Jubilee 2013 is you! Join us next weekend, February 15-17, at the Westin Convention Center in downtown Pittsburgh for the most transformative weekend of 2013! Register online by Thursday, February 7  at 11:59 PM. You will be able [...]

 

Introducing the official Jubilee 2013 mobile site!

We want to connect with you before, during, and after the conference! Check out atjubilee.com on your mobile phone for the schedule, workshops, speakers, and to view social media feeds. Remember to tag your photos and tweets with #jubilee2013.

 

How Greg and Ashley Sovereign are making a difference in students’ lives

“These people live raw, real lives, often sacrificing privacy and comfort in exchange for others to know about this God they serve. The commitment and tenacity with which they follow Jesus is incredible to see. I am privileged to call them my friends, and I am down right lucky to know them as family.” Kate Monaghan, [...]

 

Geneva College’s Living in Color conference (February 8-9)

  Because God’s Kingdom is so diverse, Christians must develop cultural intelligence to minister to His people. Through engaging speakers and workshops, the Living in Color Conference discusses ways to be an effective leader in the workplace, on campus, in the community and, most importantly, in the Kingdom. On Friday, February 8, and Saturday, February [...]

 

Choosing wisely: the CCO’s impact on a pharmacist named Eve Bell

“I really think the CCO saved me from a life of hurt from poor decision-making,” says Eve Bell. “It taught me that it’s okay to care about the world; in fact, it’s our role to reach out to others.” Eve connected to Crossroads, the CCO’s fellowship group at Duquesne University, during the first week of [...]

 

Eleven years and counting: CCO named Best Christian Place to Work

(Pittsburgh) January 23, 2013—For the eleventh straight year, the CCO (Coalition for Christian Outreach) has been recognized as a Best Christian Workplace. The award is given out annually by the Best Christian Workplaces Institute (BCWI) to recognize outstanding Christian workplaces. Each year, employees from organizations around the country participate in the anonymous BCW survey. The [...]

 

Jubilee isn’t just for college students: join us for Jubilee Professional!

Jubilee Professional 2013 Friday, February 15, 2013 Jubilee Professional brings together professionals with national thought leaders and practitioners in business, education, theology, science, and the arts to explore the role of faith in our everyday work life. For four years, the CCO and Serving Leaders have partnered to produce this unique event–capitalizing on the speaker [...]

 

Jesus and the Actuary: what Jeff Winkler learned at Jubilee

“My involvement with Penn State’s CCO ministry taught me what it means to be a leader,” says Jeff Winkler. “It does not come without hard work and constant effort, nor is it something that should be taken lightly. The ministry also helped me to realize that my decisions and actions directly impact others.” Today, Jeff [...]

 

Experience Jubilee 2013: a glimpse into the college transition ahead

Experience Jubilee is a fantastic way for high schoolers to get a glimpse of the Jubilee vision. Join us for a brief, 45-minute, interactive panel talk with real, live college students. Then join us in the Jubilee Main Gathering for compelling worship and transformative speakers with 2,500 attendees. Experience Jubilee is open to high school [...]

 

How the CCO’s Beach Project changed Tris Roberge’s life

“My experience at the Beach Project was truly life-changing,” says Tris Roberge. “Although I had grown up in a church, it wasn’t until my junior year in high school that I became a Christian. At the Beach Project, I was challenged to live all of my life for Christ. I was challenged to spend time [...]

 

Creative final exam: CCO staff member helps Westminster students connect to their community

When a Westminster College faculty member from the communication studies department approached CCO staff member Seth Morrow to help design a creative final exam, Seth savored the opportunity. Seth, a member of the CCO’s XD (Experiential Designs) Team, partners with the CCO and Westminster College to serve as Director of Titan Traverse, Westminster’s adventure education and leadership [...]

 

Learning to lead in a diverse world: Geneva College’s Living in Color conference

  Because God’s Kingdom is so diverse, Christians must develop cultural intelligence to minister to His people. Through engaging speakers and workshops, the Living in Color Conference discusses ways to be an effective leader in the workplace, on campus, in the community and, most importantly, in the Kingdom. On Friday, February 8, and Saturday, February [...]

 

Welcoming Brian Must to the CCO’s Board of Directors

The CCO is a vital ministry to college-aged students who are in the phase of life between leaving their home and becoming wholly independent adults. Decisions that these young people make can shape the rest of their lives. That is where the CCO meets these young adults. College-age decisions are crucial decisions in the life [...]

 

Featured Student of the Week: Rachel Sarafian

Brookdale Community College 2013, child psychology major “I came into my first year of college a little lost in my faith, but had a desire to grow in Christ. Attending the CCO ministry challenged my faith and created meaningful relationships with my college brothers and sisters in Christ.” —Rachel Sarafian When I first met Rachel, [...]

 

Why Kurt Carlson decided to become a CCO Board Member

I believe that the CCO is a not only a wonderful organization, but also an extremely relevant one. The choices and challenges facing our college students are numerous. Providing an outlet for both activities and guidance within a Christian framework is vital! I can’t say that it was a coincidence that the very issues that [...]

 

What does bacon have to do with campus ministry?

Last week, Jake Kaufman visited the CCO fellowship at Penn State Altoona, called SALT. Afterwards, he posted a reflection on that visit to his blog: There’s much that I could share about my time there, and the new friendships forged; but, I think it’s best to stick with this one thing: Bacon. Each Friday morning [...]

 

Featured Student of the Week: Ashlynn Fiorino

Temple University 2014, social work major and psychology minor Ashlynn started looking for a fellowship group at the end of her freshman year at Temple University; she was lonely and kind of depressed after spending the majority of her time on her studies without meaningful connections to Christian friends or a local church. At this [...]

 

David Baily: “The CCO has shaped every area of my Christian walk from birth on”

“The CCO has shaped every area of my Christian walk from birth on,” says David Baily. “Working for the CCO was the most formative part of my life and faith journey—the teaching, training, and fellowship of CCO staff, and the application of that learning was a catalyst for stretching me and accelerating my growth as [...]

 

What new CCO Board member Ryan Deaderick says about the CCO

The CCO is the only faith-based organization I know that ministers to young adults in their own environment, yet does not require recognition for their support or involvement. Being a regionally and locally focused group, the CCO is able to support hundreds of already fruitful ministries that affect the next generation of church and national [...]

 

Featured Student of the Week: Kelci DeVine

University of Findlay 2013, occupational therapy major “When I first met Kelci, it seemed like her faith was something she had grown up with, but didn’t really own for herself,” says CCO staff member Mike Barnhart. “She would share her thoughts at Bible study and agree with what was being said, but what she learned [...]

 

Listen to Kelly Cooke and Mark Steffey talk about ministry with Pitt athletes

On Tuesday, November 20, CCO staff members Kelly Cooke and Mark Steffey were interviewed on Pittsburgh’s WORD-FM by drive-time hosts, John and Kathy. They discussed the joys and challenges of reaching out to student athletes at the University of Pittsburgh. Even if you missed the live broadcast, you can click here to listen to the [...]

 

CCO named “Best Christian Workplace of the Decade”

As a celebration of their 10-year anniversary, the Best Christian Workplaces Institute has named three “Best Christian Workplaces of the Decade.” The first of those to be honored is the CCO. “I am the envy of other CEOs,” says Dan Dupee, President and CEO of the CCO (Coalition for Christian Outreach). “Our folks love Jesus [...]

 

Featured Student of the Week: Rachel Gibson

Brookdale Community College 2013, art major Rachel Gibson essentially runs our Wednesday evening fellowship. She facilitates most of our events and communication as a ministry. She leads our core group discussions for college girls. She is also discipling three different girls from our college group. She headed our Jubilee team this year and worked out [...]

 

Jubilee 2013: Registration will be never be lower than it is this week!

Early-bird pricing ($239 with housing, $149 without) for Jubilee 2013 ends this Thursday, November 29, 2012 at 11:59 PM. On Friday, the prices will increase to $259 with housing, $169 without. So don’t wait! Register today and lock in the lowest price!

 

Jeremy Rochford and The Gospel According to Chubby

“My campus CCO ministry challenged me to take my faith and my God seriously,” says Jeremy Rochford. “Once I was deliberate with the one relationship that mattered most, my life was forever changed and I have accomplished things I never would have dreamed imaginable.” Jeremy connected to the CCO’s ministry when he was a student [...]

 

Happy 30th birthday to Heart and Minds Bookstore!

Three decades ago, CCO staff alumni Beth and Byron Borger opened Hearts and Minds Bookstore in Dallastown, Pennsylvania, and a new ministry was born. The Borgers continue to equip men and women of all ages to live out their Christian faith in every area of life by recommending resources to help them to just that. [...]

 

A call to help Superstorm Sandy victims at the College of Staten Island

When Superstorm Sandy hit the east coast last month, one of the communities hardest hit was Staten Island. CCO staff member Miles Adams and his wife, Elisabeth, reach out to students at the College of Staten Island. While Miles and Elisabeth made it through the storm relatively unscathed, many of their students and members of their [...]

 

How the CCO kept Katie connected to the church

“My experience as a college student was dramatically changed by the CCO,” says Katie Miller. “Carnegie Mellon is not known for having many religious students. I remember some of the soccer coaches chuckling once when someone not affiliated with the school asked if holding practice on Sundays caused a problem with any of their students [...]

 

Featured Student of the Week: Amanda Maxwell

University of Findlay 2015, occupational therapy major “When I first met Amanda, she was very shy and quiet,” says Mike Barnhart, CCO staff member at the University of Findlay. “She would barely talk with her friends in a public setting, let alone engage someone she did not know.” Amanda Maxwell first got involved with the [...]

 

Jennifer Luitwieler and the CCO: full circle

“I believe that there are moments in life when we get the exact right thing at the exact right time,” says Jennifer Luitwieler. “Because of the CCO’s ministry, I feel like I was given a good strong biblical background. I know why I believe what I believe; I can defend it if I have to. [...]

 

CCO student and staff alumni seek peace in Pittsburgh neighborhood

Chad and Johanna Collins were involved in the CCO’s ministry at the University of Pittsburgh. Their neighbors, Kendal and Jen Pelling and Brian and Megan Shope, also have CCO ties; Johanna, Jen, Brian, and Megan were not only CCO students, but served for a time on CCO staff. Today, they all live in the Garfield [...]

 

Featured Student of the Week: Alaina Webber

Duquesne University 2013, Integrated Marketing Communication major “Alaina embodies what the CCO strives to build up in students,” says CCO staff member Pete Chace. “She’s a transforming agent who infects everyone she meets with her contagious love of Christ.” Alaina Webber has served on the student Ministry Team for the past year and a half, [...]

 

Get to know Ken Smith, our Chairman of the Board

by Dan Dupee, CCO President I was recently looking at a letter I sent to Ken Smith in December of 2003. He had just had lunch with our then Chairman of the Board, Bob Long, and we were nominating Ken to be a Director. Here is what was in the letter: The opportunity to make [...]

 

Job Opening: Development Associate for Ohio

The CCO (Coalition for Christian Outreach), a ministry to college students based in Pittsburgh, PA and working on more than 100 campuses located in seven states throughout the mid-Atlantic region, is seeking candidates to apply for the following position: Development Associate, Ohio The Ohio Development Associate will be responsible for spearheading fundraising and development work [...]

 

Featured Student of the Week: Rob Terracciano

Brookdale Community College 2013, biology major When Rob Terracciano graduated from high school, he dreamed of going away to college and playing baseball. But limited finances meant that this dream needed to be put on hold, and Rob needed to make other plans. He enrolled as a commuter at Brookdale Community College, near his New [...]

 

From CMU to Afghanistan to Berkley: Jacob Portnoff’s journey

“The CCO was a great motivator for me to think of Christianity as something more than just a thing to participate in on Sunday,” says Jacob Portnoff. “It gave me some intellectual frameworks to look at the world in a larger way and see how we can be ‘in but not of’ the world. “While [...]

 

CCO students organize prayer vigil for injured Penn State cheerleader

On Saturday night, October 13, a Penn State University cheerleader named Paige Raque fell 39 feet from a fifth floor balcony. She is currently in critical condition, suffering from shattered bones and a brain injury. Will Gigante ministers to student athletes at Penn State, and shortly before he left to meet students at a Bible [...]

 

Featured Student of the Week: Bri Hogan

University of Pittsburgh 2015, rehab science major Bri Hogan isn’t “kind of” a Christian, like several of the students we work with. Many of them struggle with living out their faith, or with connecting their belief with their actions. Not Bri. She takes her faithfulness seriously and wants to become more Christ-like every day. Bri [...]

 

How the CCO helped Katie Steinour figure out her life

“Because I was involved in the CCO’s ministry during college, I learned that any talent that I have can be used for God’s purposes, even if it seems insignificant or not useful,” says Katie Steinour. “I have grown as a leader and am able to more purposefully understand and study the Bible.” Katie graduated from [...]

 

Featured Student of the Week: Paul Harris

University of Cincinnati, class of 2013, industrial design major Paul Harris first attended the Jubilee conference during his freshman year, and according to CCO staff member Chris Bean, that’s when Paul gained a new vision for his future. “Because of Jubilee, Paul grew tremendously in his understanding of vocation and calling,” Chris says. “In one [...]

 

Work Matters! A conversation about vocation and the church

The Washington Institute for Faith, Vocation, and Culture and the CCO invite you to attend: Work Matters: A conversation about vocation and the church Wednesday, October 24 12:30 – 2:30pm Rivers Club One Oxford Centre 301 Grant Street, Suite 411 Pittsburgh, PA 15219 This event is FREE!* Rev. Tom Nelson is author of Work Matters: [...]

 

CCO campus minister called to help students through trials of college life

Veteran CCO staff member Mitch Marcello recently took on a new ministry assignment, reaching out to students at Lycoming College and the Pennsylvania College of Technology in a partnership with First United Methodist Church in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. Mitch was recently interviewed about his work for the Williamsport Sun-Gazette. “It’s become accepted in our culture that [...]

 

Featured Student of the Week: Theresa Dark

York College 2013, sports management major Until she went to the Ocean City Beach Project, Theresa never knew what true Christian community could really look like. This from a young woman who grew up in a Christian family and attended Christian schools her whole life. Theresa Dark is a sports management major at York College [...]

 

Multiply your gift to the CCO on October 3!

(Click the photo for a special video message from the CCO!) Please join us on Wednesday, October 3rd for a Day of Giving, and multiply your gift to make an impact on over 100 campuses and thousands of students’ lives. On Wednesday, October 3th, from 12am until 11:59pm EST, every gift to the CCO will [...]

 

Love on a Bun shares free food and fellowship with York College students

Every other Friday night, students involved in the CCO’s ministry at York College of Pennsylvania stay up late grilling hot dogs for their classmates, both friends and strangers. They have made such an impression that “Love on a Bun” was recently highlighted in the York Daily Record. Click here to read the full story, complete [...]

 

Featured Student of the Week: Chris Dymski

Grove City College 2014, history and secondary education major “Chris Dymski was certainly gifted with many talents by the Lord and that was incredibly evident to me the first time I met him,” says Andrew Stimmel, CCO staff member and head men’s lacrosse coach at Grove City College. “What was also obvious was that Chris [...]

 

How we help college students find their voices

CCO staff specialist, Sam Van Eman, recently reflected on the importance of our calling within the CCO to help students find their voices: Occasionally, I let college students get lost in the woods. One time it even happened in the middle of the night. The group had been instructed to reach a certain point on [...]

 

Featured Student of the Week: Allie Gray

Point Park University 2014, Sports, Arts, and Entertainment Management major “Allie is an inviter if I’ve ever met one,” says Katherine Sikma. “She is consistently bringing others along, whether it’s to our fellowship group, an event on campus, to church, or in prayer. She has the gift of hospitality, and is always inviting others to [...]

 

What is “crazy”? A campus minister’s brush with mental health issues

When Tyler Charles joined CCO staff to reach out to students at Ohio Wesleyan University, he couldn’t have imagined the kinds of challenges those students would face. Click here to read Tyler’s first-hand account of how God showed up as he ministered to “Paige” through her journey of doubt, self-harm, and mental health struggles. Copyright [...]

 

Featured Student of the Week: Angela Loewen

Clarion University of Pennsylvania 2013, math education major As a freshman at Clarion University, Angela Loewen hesitated to get involved in the CCO-advised Koinonia Christian Fellowship because of difficult experiences with Christian community in the past. But as she got to know the students who were involved, she started to attend, and eventually got more [...]

 

Scott Sankey: seeking the title or the testimony?

Scott Sankey remembers attending a Jubilee conference many years ago and hearing Tony Campolo ask the question, “Do you want a title or a testimony?” Years later, that question continues to reverberate. “I have a lot of titles after my name,” Scott says. “But they don’t matter to me as much as the testimony.” “The [...]

 

CCO Director of Events Chris Carson featured in Rejuvenate magazine

Chris Carson oversees the CCO’s annual Jubilee conference and Ocean City Beach Project. And he has been named in Rejuvenate magazine’s 40 Under 40 Class of 2012. “Rejuvenate’s second annual “40 Under 40” are planners who put their organizations’ best interests before their own and ministers who travel the world to share the gospel. They build [...]

 

Featured Student of the Week: Evie Smith

University of Findlay Class of 2016, Physical Therapy major “I have definitely changed since coming to college,” says University of Findlay student, Evie Smith. “I have learned how to worship, and I am much more bold than I ever was in high school. I would have never played guitar, let alone sing in front of [...]

 

CCO staff members Rodger Woodworth and Michael Thornhill: doing church in a new way

Check out the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette article featuring New City Church, a new downtown Pittsburgh church plant which staffs two CCO staff members: the Rev. Rodger Woodworth and Michael Thornhill. “With a core of 40 to 50 adults, the church has the support of the Presbytery of the Alleghenies, the Coalition for Christian Outreach — a [...]

 

Featured Student of the Week: Drew Grunauer

Robert Morris University 2013, actuarial science major “I came to college to get a degree, to get a job, to make lots of money, to have lots of things,” says Andrew Grunauer, a sophomore at Robert Morris University. “That made sense to me. I did not want to build relationships and make lifelong friends; I [...]

 

Aliquippa resident Jim Skal to reach out to Penn State Beaver students

With over 20 years of professional experience, Jim Skal has joined the CCO as an associate staff member, reaching out to students at Penn State Beaver. Prior to affiliating with the CCO, Jim worked and served in a number of professional and ministerial positions. As a Mortgage Banker with Victorian Finance, Jim worked with a [...]

 

Associate staff member Mike Puckett to reboot CCO ministry at the University of Akron

Mike Puckett has come on board as an associate staff member of the CCO, volunteering his time to reach out to students at The University of Akron. Mike graduated from Appalachian State University in 2007 with a degree in English before continuing his studies at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, where he is currently enrolled. [...]

 

Featured Student of the Week: Tori Sigworth

Malone University 2014, elementary education major “When Tori came in to my residence hall last year as a freshman, we connected right away,” says Ali Walls, Tori’s Resident Director. “When I heard she was considering applying for the Ocean City Beach Project, I encouraged her to do it. “Now, after seeing two of my RAs [...]

 

Michael Thornhill to reach Point Park University students

Michael Thornhill has joined the CCO to reach out to students at Point Park University through a partnership with New City Church. A graduate of Slippery Rock University, Michael has served in a number of positions before and during college, including Resident Assistant, Admissions Department Assistant, Senior Counselor at Camp Allegheny, Farmhand, Tour Guide, Mascot, [...]

 

From Kansas City to Columbus: the CCO welcomes Lindi Martsolf

Lindi Martsolf has joined the CCO to minister to students at Capital University in partnership with Discovery Church. “College students are in such a unique stage of life,” Lindi says. “They are so open to discovering news ways in which God is working. This discovery can transform students and the world around them. My husband, [...]

 

Featured Student of the Week: Julie Gallagher

Duquesne University, class of 2015, doctor of physical therapy program Julie Gallagher knew she would be involved in the CCO’s ministry even before she stepped foot on Duquesne University’s campus. As a high school student participating in an inner-city mission at The Pittsburgh Project, she met a Duquesne student who told her about it. Early [...]

 

New staff member Mike Swanson will reach the world from Penn State

Pittsburgh native Mike Swanson is reaching out to international students at Penn State University through an internship during the 2012-13 school year. Mike graduated from Grove City College in May, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy. During his time in college Mike came to understand what an important time college is in the life [...]

 

What happens in Ocean City…

…makes a difference on campus! This past Friday, August 3, the 28 students and five CCO staff members who spent a summer working, learning, and living in community together in Ocean City, New Jersey, celebrated their final evening together and parted ways. The 2012 Ocean City Beach Project is now in the history books, but [...]

 

CCO welcomes Josh Thompson to renew ministry at Butler County Community College

Grove City graduate Josh Thompson has joined CCO staff to take on the challenge of rebuilding a CCO presence among students at Butler County Community College, or “BC3.” “The CCO exemplifies the things that I have always desired to see in a campus ministry,” Josh says. “Jesus came to earth to seek and save the [...]

 

Featured Student of the Week: Tim Shamblin

University of Cincinnati, class of 2013, architecture major “I can literally always count on Tim showing up for Bible study,” says Chris Bean, CCO staff member at the University of Cincinnati. “He has a passion for maintaining a healthy relationship with God and growing in his understanding of the Scriptures. Over the course of the [...]

 

Jared Cave to serve students in Williamsport, PA

Jared Cave has joined the CCO to reach out to students at Lycoming College and the Pennsylvania College of Technology through a partnership with Covenant-Central Presbyterian Church, where he serves as Director of Outreach. Jared graduated from Gordon College in 2009 with a bachelor’s degree in youth ministry. Prior to joining the CCO, Jared worked [...]

 

Jeff and Linda Leon among 29 CCO staff to be recognized for excellence in ministry

Jeff and Linda Leon first met when they were students at the CCO’s Ocean City Beach Project in 1991. In 1993, they joined CCO staff, and in 1995, they began ministering to students at Malone College (now University) in Canton, Ohio. This summer, they were among the 29 CCO staff members who were recognized for [...]

 

Kerri Landes Clauser reaching out to Pitt and CMU students from Homewood

Kerri Clauser and her husband, Casey, launched the Bible Center Church Ministry House in the Homewood neighborhood of Pittsburgh in 2010, and Kerri has joined the CCO as associate staff as she reaches students at Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Pittsburgh. The house is designed for young adults and college students to live [...]

 

Featured Student of the Week: Johanna Potter

University of Findlay Class of 2015, pharmacy major “I attended a Christian school all the way through elementary and high school, so coming to college was definitely a change for me,” says Johanna Potter, a student at the University of Findlay in Findlay, Ohio. “Even though I had made my own decisions about my faith, [...]

 

Ministry veteran Bill Corbin to reach out to students in northwestern Ohio

Bill Corbin has joined CCO staff to reach out to students at Findlay University, Bluffton University, and Owens Community College through a partnership with Gateway Church. With 13 years of service to college students and young adults, Bill is no stranger to growing faithful communities of young adults. Prior to working for the CCO, Corbin functioned in many roles [...]

 

Jessica Wells to serve Kent State students as associate staff

Jessica Wells is a CCO associate staff worker, volunteering her time to reach out to students at Kent State University. Jessica did her undergraduate work at Beloit College before enrolling at Kent State for a Master’s Degree in Library and Information Science. While at Beloit, Jessica took on a leadership role within her Christian fellowship group, [...]

 

Featured Student of the Week: Carley Padgett

Robert Morris University 2014, nursing major Carley Padgett had an epiphany when she attended the Jubilee conference as a Robert Morris University freshman. Before the conference, she was looking to the future and her goal of becoming a nurse and going to serve as a missionary in Africa. But Jubilee helped her understand that God [...]

 

South Carolina native Seth Morrow joins CCO staff

Seth Morrow will begin his ministry to students this fall through his role as Director of Titan Traverse, an adventure learning program at Westminster College. Seth, a native of Greenville, South Carolina, believes that his outdoor skills will be a good match for the Titan Traverse position. “It is a perfect fit for me because [...]

 

Meet the CCO’s New Staff Class of 2012!

On Friday, July 20, 2012, 39 new CCO staff members were commissioned by their veteran colleagues to go out onto campus and, in the name of Jesus Christ, transform college students to transform the world. Click here to find out out about the men and women who have chosen to join us in this mission. [...]

 

Introducing Melissa Riches, new CCO staff at Philadelphia U.

Melissa Riches has come on board with the CCO to minister to students at Philadelphia University in partnership with Pilgrim Church. After three years of studying Youth Ministry and Biblical Studies, Melissa Riches graduated from Eastern University in 2012 as one of the top students in her class. “In college, students ask some of the [...]

 

Featured Student of the Week: Matthew Molinari

Penn State University Class of 2014, security and risk analysis major After two tours of duty in Afghanistan with the Air Force, Matthew Molinari showed up at Penn State University in the fall of 2010. Having made a commitment to Christ while in the service, Matt was looking to connect with a Christian group on [...]

 

Kyle Potter to minister to Elmira College students

Geneva College graduate Kyle Potter has joined the CCO to reach out to students at Elmira College through a partnership with North Presbyterian Church. While at Geneva, Kyle held several positions in leadership and service. He was a student mentor, a discipleship coordinator, and a resident assistant. Kyle also was a counselor at Bethany Baptist [...]

 

Join us on Wednesday, July 18 to hear Bill Romanowski speak on faith and film

You are warmly invited to hear Bill Romanowski speak on faith and the film industry. The CCO is delighted to launch the Hearts & Minds Summer Lecture* on Wednesday, July 18. Dr. William D. Romanowski will speak at Robert Morris University on his new book, Reforming Hollywood: How American Protestants Fought for Freedom at the [...]

 

Introducing Melissa Kellner, Jubilee Team Coordinator at Shippensburg

Melissa Kellner has come on board with CCO for the 2012-13 school year as an intern, reaching out to students at Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania. Melissa will be working alongside CCO staff member Philip Schiavoni as the Jubilee Team Coordinator. Melissa recently graduated from Geneva College with a Bachelor’s of Science in Human Services. Prior [...]

 

Featured Student of the Week: Jessi Dinan

University of Cincinnati, class of 2013, biomedical engineering major “Jessi was already pretty sure about who she was when we met, and that’s one of the things I’ve always admired about her,” says CCO associate staff member Anthony Jones. “She’s not concerned with being defined or letting her identity be formed by somebody else. She [...]

 

Brenden Scalley pioneers CCO ministry at Bloomsburg University

Brenden Scalley has joined CCO staff to become the first staff member to minister to students at Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania. He will serve as Director of College and Young Adult Ministry at Bloomsburg Christian Church. Brenden is no stranger to the CCO. While a student at Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania, he was very involved [...]

 

Featured Student of the Week: Allan Irizarry-Graves

Youngstown State University 2012, criminal justice major “When I first started college, my relationship with God was based on my parents’ faith,” says Allan Irizarry-Graves. “Now, it is based on my own personal faith in him.” Allan credits his involvement in the CCO’s ministry at Youngstown State University with helping him to grow deeper in [...]

 

Introducing new CCO staff member, Ivan Moore

Ivan Moore has come on board with the CCO to minister to students at Indiana University of Pennsylvania through a partnership with the CCO’s longest-standing church partner, Graystone Presbyterian Church. Ivan earned a bachelor’s degree in Public Relations from Slippery Rock University in 2007, and he completed his master’s degree in Mass Communication in May [...]

 

Caylynn Zeitz: from Arcadia U. to Penn State Altoona

Caylynn Zeitz has joined the CCO to minister to students at Penn State Altoona in partnership with Altoona Collegiate Outreach. A 2011 graduate of Arcadia University, Caylynn decided to pursue campus ministry full-time after an internship with InterVarsity and the CCO with Arcadia Christian Fellowship. “College students are at a point in their lives when [...]

 

Announcing the Hearts & Minds Summer Lecture, featuring Bill Romanowski

You are warmly invited to hear Bill Romanowski speak on faith and the film industry. The CCO is delighted to launch the Hearts & Minds Summer Lecture* on Wednesday, July 18. Dr. William D. Romanowski will speak at Robert Morris University on his new book, Reforming Hollywood: How American Protestants Fought for Freedom at the [...]

 

Featured Student of the Week: Julie Keslar

Kent State University 2013, nursing major Julie Keslar calls her freshman year at Kent State University “the hardest year of my life.” Julie made a commitment to Jesus Christ when she was five years old, and through a series of events, by the time she graduated from high school, she knew she was being called [...]

 

CCO staff member Sam Taylor to work with Gannon University students

Sam Taylor will begin his ministry this fall to students at Gannon University through a partnership with First Presbyterian Church of the Covenant. He will serve as co-director of the Kirk House, a community living situation for Christian college students. A Grove City College graduate, Taylor realizes the importance of having a mentor through college. [...]

 

Shanna Delaney: “God can use you wherever your talents are”

“The CCO made a big difference in how I live out every area of my life, because they were really good about emphasizing that there need to be Christians in every area of life,” says Shanna Delaney. “Instead of saying you have to go in to ‘ministry’ to make a difference, CCO staff talked about [...]

 

New staff member Katherine Ey to reach Chatham students

Katherine Ey has joined the CCO to reach out to students at Chatham University in partnership with Shadyside Presbyterian Church. Katherine, a graduate of Kenyon College, was deeply influenced by the CCO’s ministry during her college years in unexpected ways. “Coming to college, I did not expect to actively pursue my faith,” Katherine admits. “In [...]

 

Featured Student of the Week: Billy Riley

Double major in psychology and philosophy, Washington & Jefferson College Class of 2013 Billy’s love of Jesus is evident in his humility, kindness towards his peers, and steadfast faithfulness. Besides participating in a small-group Bible study on campus, Billy has been shaped by his experiences of CCO-sponsored conferences like Faith for Thought and Jubilee, as [...]

 

Introducing Russ Schneider, Waynesburg University’s new CCO Resident Director

Arcadia University graduate Russ Schneider will begin his ministry this fall to Waynesburg University students through his role as a resident director. Russ says he wants to work for the CCO because “God has transformed me and molded me into someone that has a strong desire to reach out to college students and guide them [...]

 

Ocean City Beach Project 2012

From June 6 through August 3, three CCO staff instructors, two CCO interns, and 28 college students are living in community in a house in Ocean City, New Jersey, participating in the Ocean City Beach Project. OCBP is a summer-long community living opportunity for Christian college students to develop further as campus leaders. The Project [...]

 

Eric Ling’s journey from atheism to belief

“I am where I am today because of my time at the CCO,” says Eric Ling. “The CCO encouraged me to understand the Christian worldview, that church was not a place and God was not to be placed in a box of religiosity. As a result, my faith permeates every decision I make and has [...]

 

Jenna Matson to minister to Kent State student athletes

Jenna Matson has joined CCO staff to reach out to female athletes at Kent State University through a partnership with the Kent State Community Board. Since graduating from Mercyhurst College in 2009, Jenna has used her degree in graphic design in a number of ways, most recently as Designer and External Communications Coordinator at The [...]

 

Featured Student of the Week: Julianna Sneath

La Roche College 2013, interior design major Julianna Sneath transferred from Penn State Altoona to La Roche College because she felt that God was calling her to study interior design. She recognizes her major as a calling from God and works hard to honor God with her accomplishments. She strives to do her best in [...]

 

Introducing new CCO staff: Geraud Brumfield at Clarion

Geraud Brumfield has come on board with the CCO to minister to students at Clarion University of Pennsylvania in partnership with the Koinonia Christian Fellowship Board. Geraud graduated from Shippensburg University in the fall of 2010 with a degree in Elementary Education. During his time at Shippensburg, Geraud served in a number of different capacities—as [...]

 

Carla Sivek: “I can’t imagine what college would have been like without the CCO”

“Having high-level, biblical teaching in the midst of my formal education fueled a deep sense of stewardship in me,” says Carla Sivek. “To this day, I regard my skills and abilities, along with my tangible resources, as belonging to God, and merely entrusted to me to use for His kingdom. The weekly CCO-led fellowship meetings, [...]

 

Featured Student of the Week: Felix Vasquez from Millersville University

Millersville University 2013, elementary education major From the moment I met him, Felix Vasquez has been a guy who’s enjoyable to be around; he’s always been kind and generous. As his relationship with Christ has been renewed, I’ve seen a newborn passion for Scripture and asking questions. He’s a deep thinker and he hungers for [...]

 

Follow the LDW Wyoming 2012 Blog

On Saturday, June 2, four CCO staff instructors and 13 college students gathered in western Pennsylvania to prepare for a six-week adventure of Leadership and Discipleship in the Wilderness of Wyoming. Leadership and Discipleship in the Wilderness (LDW) is an extended wilderness trip that provides leadership development and a community living experience for college students. [...]

 

CCO fellowship honored by La Roche College

Congratulations to the CCO-sponsored L.I.F.E. Christian fellowship group! L.I.F.E. won an award from La Roche’s Director of Clubs and Organizations and the Student Development Department for completing the most community service hours during the 2012-13 school year.

 

Kris Herman’s life mission

“My college experience, including the CCO’s influence, helped me to formulate a biblical worldview that touches all of life, and this is the foundation that I continually draw from to this day!” says Kris Herman. “Knowing that my life mission is to love God and love my neighbor, and interpreting the world through the lens [...]

 

University of Pittsburgh athletes reach out to Haiti

A contingent of Pitt athletes traveled to Haiti in May, experiencing first-hand how life-changing a short-term mission trip can be. These student athletes were accompanied by Mark Steffey, a CCO staff member reaching out to athletes at the University of Pittsburgh, and Vince Burens, a Pitt alumnus and Chief Operating Officer of the CCO. The [...]

 

Featured Student of the Week: Jamilia Bush from Kent State University

Early childhood development major, Kent State University Class of 2013 Jamilia came to our fellowship meeting her freshman year and never stopped. After her first semester, I put her on a plan of discipleship. I got her involved in tutoring through a local church, and that was the move that pushed the needle to the [...]

 

CCO staff member Dave McGeary named Adviser of the Year for the third time!

In April 2007, CCO staff member Dave McGeary made history by being awarded the first-ever Adviser of the Year Award from Penn State New Kensington. In 2012, Dave made history again, by winning the award for the third time. Congratulations, Dave!

 

Lisa Herman: “How it was supposed to be!”

“I’d been a Christian my whole life, but had been in a church that valued missionary and pastoral work as the highest calling,” says Lisa Herman. “At Jubilee, people were talking about how you could serve God in all occupations in life. I was continually amazed hearing presentations from people who were ‘redeeming’ banking, media, [...]

 

Featured Student of the Week: Andrew Marra from California University of PA

California University of Pennsylvania student Andrew Marra has participated in the Habitat for Humanity Chapter on campus, drives students to church, is active in the tech education club, and was selected to work as a Community Assistant, Cal U’s equivalent to a resident assistant, during his junior year. A technology education major, Andrew also serves [...]

 

Pitt’s CCO-advised Habitat Chapter wins March Service Madness Award

The University of Pittsburgh’s Panther Habitat for Humanity Campus Chapter, advised by CCO staff member Jonny Cagwin, won the March Service Madness competition in 2012, with 2,624 service hours completed during the month of March. March Service Madness was a community service competition at the main campus of the University of Pittsburgh put on by [...]

 

How rooming with the RD changed Andrew Bernard’s life

Andrew Bernard describes his experience with the CCO at Geneva College as being a “powerful and meaningful time in my Christian life.” Andrew was heavily recruited as a high school quarterback by a number of colleges and chose Geneva. Because he had become a Christian during his senior year of high school, Andrew felt the [...]

 

Featured Student of the Week: Sarah Kistenmacher from Arcadia University

Arcadia University 2012, biology major, public health minor “Sarah was quiet and reserved when I first met her,” says Greg Sovereign, CCO staff member at Arcadia University. “She now emcees our Thursday night gatherings, and she recently started a new community dinner initiative at her home church. She came in with a lot of compassion [...]

 

Follow the Experience Peru 2012 Blog

On Friday, May 11, three CCO staff members and 13 college students from nine campuses traveled to Peru, where they will spend three weeks serving, sight-seeing, and experiencing a new culture together. Experience Peru is a 21-day service and adventure trip. Through serving in local villages, trekking through small farming and weaving communities and visiting [...]

 

Penn State Altoona recognizes CCO group with community service award

Congratulations to SALT (Students About Living Truth), the CCO-advised Christian fellowship at Penn State Altoona. The university recently recognized SALT with a Community Outreach Award for their work in greater Altoona.

 

How the CCO convinced Sarah Brieschke that she could serve God in the business world

“The CCO ministry gave me a base, a home community, somewhere I could be challenged and grow and be pushed, but also completely relax, let my guard down and be taken care of,” says Sarah Brieschke. “Having that foundation allowed me to take chances in my school work and in athletics and to talk to [...]

 

Featured Student of the Week: Tim Hessels from Penn State University

Tim Hessels was raised in the church, but once he turned 18, he stopped going, because “I didn’t have to anymore.” When he began his freshman year at Penn State, Tim says, “I was really into the party scene. In college it’s easy to stray away, with all that goes on.” The transformation started over [...]

 

CCO staff members Kathy Kinzer-Downs and Lamont Downs win award

Congratulations to Kathy Kinzer-Downs and Lamont Downs for their work on Geneva College’s Program of the Year in Student Development and Geneva College Life: A Night of the Arts in Honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. CCO staff members Kathy and Lamont both partner with Geneva College to reach out to students. Kathy serves [...]

 

John Ryan: “I’m thankful that I got connected to Christians on campus as early as I did”

“I am very thankful for my experience with the CCO during those formative college years,” says John Ryan. “I wouldn’t have called those CCO staff mentors then, but that’s what they were. I am grateful that they chose to invest in me and love me as a child of God. When I interact with youth [...]

 

Featured Student of the Week: Caitlyn Bowman from Juniata College

“I have seen Caitlyn grow from a quiet individual into a dynamic leader, hungry for the Word of God and hungry to grow in her relationship to Christ,” says Lindsay Reedy. “She is a student who will continue to do great things for the Kingdom of God in graduate school and beyond.” Caitlyn and Lindsay [...]

 

The CCO’s Next Generation Gala 2012 gains momentum

Click here for the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review’s brief summary of Friday’s Next Generation Gala, along with a photo of CCO President Dan Dupee with honorary chairman, Gretchen R. Haggerty, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer for United States Steel Corporation.

 

What students need as they prepare for final exams

As college students across the country are prepping for final exams and anticipating summer opportunities, what can we as campus ministers do to help them finish well? Encourage them to get more sleep, says Guy Chmieleski, blogger at Faith on Campus. Click here for more practical advice from Guy.

 

Jaclyn Beeler: “The CCO helped me look at life in a new way”

“The CCO helped me look at life in a new way,” says Jaclyn Beeler. “It helped me step out of my comfort zone. The CCO and the Ocean City Beach Project challenged me and helped me open my eyes to what God’s calling is for my life.” Jaclyn Beeler is a college student at Williamson [...]

 

Featured Student of the Week: John Milligan from Allegheny College

As a quiet leader of Allegheny Christian Outreach, John Milligan has continued to impress and surprise me. For the last year, John has led a Wednesday morning prayer time, and he steadfastly invites new students to join them, even though 7:15 a.m. seems absurdly early to college students. He plans breakfast or lunch afterward to [...]

 

CCO Next Generation Gala to take place this Friday, April 27!

We are excited to see those of you planning to attend the CCO’s annual fundraising dinner and auction at the Omni William Penn Hotel in downtown Pittsburgh on Friday, April 27! To help you plan (and maybe check your calendars) before the Live Auction begins Friday night, we’ve prepared a preview of some of the [...]

 

Featured Student of the Week: Ruthann Rutherford from Penn State University

“Ruthann has a huge heart for the homeless, the orphan, the widow—those in deep need, here and elsewhere,” says Erica Young Reitz. CCO staff member Erica met Ruthann Rutherford shortly after Ruthann transferred to Penn State University’s main campus from Altoona as a junior. Ruthann started attending Calvary Church, where Erica partners to minister to [...]

 

Featured Student of the Week: Seth Lucas from the University of Cincinnati

University of Cincinnati, class of 2012, graphic design major “Seth is humble, self-sacrificial, thoughtful, missional, and willing to be challenged,” says Anthony Jones, CCO associate staff member at the University of Cincinnati. “He is a great example of what we hope will happen for a student who spends a few years in our ministry.” Anthony [...]

 

The CCO welcomes new associate staff member Stacy Utecht

(Pittsburgh) April 3, 2012—In March 2012, Stacy Utecht joined the CCO (Coalition for Christian Outreach) as an associate staff member, who is ministering to students through her role as Resident Director at Malone University. Stacy has been serving as a Resident Director at Malone prior to affiliating with the CCO, but the CCO’s vision matches [...]

 

Jannel Lee-Allen: “What is God doing in the world and how can we change the world for the better?”

“The CCO’s ministry gave me a very broad view of God and our calling to change the world as Christians,” says Jannel Lee-Allen. “Without Gene and the CCO, I don’t think I would have developed that perspective. The churches I attended growing up focused much more on ‘God and you’ rather than ‘what is God [...]

 

Featured Student of the Week: Maria Fusco from Point Park University

Point Park University 2012, biology major “I have seen Maria grow so much in confidence in her faith and her calling,” says Katherine Sikma. “Over the past three years, she has learned so much about herself, God, and her calling to advance the Kingdom.” When Katherine started as a CCO staff worker at Point Park [...]

 

Dwight Podgurski pioneers CCO ministry at Butler University

(Pittsburgh)—April 2, 2012—On April 1, 2012, Dwight Podgurski officially began his new position with the CCO (Coalition for Christian Outreach) as Coordinator of University Ministries at Second Presbyterian Church of Indianapolis, reaching out to students at Butler University. He is the first CCO staff member to minister to students at Butler, and the second campus [...]

 

How the CCO helped Tara Smith put the puzzle together

“I always felt like there was something to believe in, but I didn’t know what it was,” says Tara Smith. “Now I do.” When Tara arrived at La Roche College for her freshman year, she heard about the CCO’s fellowship group on campus, but it wasn’t until her junior year that she really connected. And [...]

 

Featured Student of the Week: Tyler Changaris from Penn State University

When he started college at Penn State Altoona, Tyler Changaris was immediately drawn into the party scene. He had grown up going to church, but had never really heard—or understood—the gospel message. Once away from home, he started hanging out with the party crowd and doing drugs, and but there was always something in his [...]

 

How the CCO prepared Patrick Myers to be a camp director

“My love of giving college students the big picture of the Kingdom is my favorite part of my job,” says Patrick Myers, Executive Director of Ligonier Camp and Conference Center. “I love what happens with campers, and the overall program, but my favorite part of my job is helping our college student staff members see [...]

 

The CCO welcomes associate staff member Jake Blasdel

(Pittsburgh) March 1, 2012—Jake Blasdel recently came on board with the CCO as an associate staff member, volunteering his time to reach out to students at Binghamton University and Broome Community College. He is the first CCO staff person to have a presence at these two campuses. “I have been attracted to the CCO from [...]

 

Featured Student of the Week: Lathania Brown from Ohio Wesleyan University

When Lathania Brown arrived at Ohio Wesleyan University for her freshman year, it was clear that life in Delaware, Ohio would very different from what she was used to in her hometown of Kingston, Jamaica. In spite of the cultural adjustments, Lathania has grown considerably, both in her Christian faith and in her leadership abilities. [...]

 

How the CCO prepared Sara Sackville for a career in social work

“My role is to work with survivors of state-sponsored torture, doing case management services, community building, and supportive therapy services for torture survivors who are suffering from PTSD and are awaiting political asylum in the United States,” Sara Sackville says. “CCO staff members imparted to me a vision to help vulnerable members of society. Without [...]

 

A Slippery Rock University journalism student reflects on Jubilee 2012

by Erica Kurvach, a junior journalism major at Slippery Rock University* Jubilee 2012 is evidence of Jesus Christ at work. His powerful and unfailing love is shown through the people, sessions, bookstore and music. Some of my friends from Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania were able to go because of God’s support in friends and [...]

 

Lee-Anna Upperman reaches students at Houghton College

(Pittsburgh) February 1, 2012—In February 2012, Lee-Anna Upperman joined the CCO to serve as an associate staff member through her position as a residence hall director at Houghton College in western New York State. Lee-Anna was deeply influenced by the ministry of the CCO during her undergraduate years at Geneva College. “The relationships I formed with [...]

 

Featured Student of the Week: Alina Meden from Waynesburg University

“When we all shared our testimonies at our Bible study last fall, I was amazed to hear how God has worked in Alina’s life,” says Becky Juliano, CCO staff member at Waynesburg University. “I remember walking away thinking, ‘Wow God!’ Ever since then, I have watched Alina’s desire to be faithful increase.” Alina Meden, now [...]

 

Why Rob keeps going back to Jubilee

This is what Rob Stottlemyer, a Penn State University graduate who is now living and working in the Pittsburgh area, posted on his Facebook page* on Sunday afternoon after returning home from Jubilee 2012. The reason I keep going back to Jubilee was palpable in the convention center this morning. It was a sense that [...]

 

The CCO welcomes Cliff Cartwright, our new Director of Recruiting

(Pittsburgh) March 7, 2012—On March 7, 2012, Clifford Cartwright came on board as the CCO’s Director of Recruiting, teaming up with Alycia Hodil to recruit and place staff on campuses to minister to college students. “The CCO has given me the opportunity to work in collaboration with people who are as passionate as I am [...]

 

Dana Ray: “God cares about my academics and my creativity and art?”

“Without the CCO’s ministry, I would not have been the faithful student that I was,” says Dana Ray. “Where else would I have been challenged to use creative writing to the glory of God? God cares about my academics and my creativity and art? God has campus ministers who go to poetry readings and chat [...]

 

Six degrees of Jeremy Lin, and why campus ministry matters

CCO staff member Steve Lutz reaches out to students at Penn State University. Steve has a cousin who is married to a campus minister at Harvard University, and that campus minister mentored a student named Jeremy Lin. Have you heard of Jeremy? Seen the global newspaper headlines about “Linsanity”? Jeremy is the latest sports phenom, [...]

 

Chris White: “The Jubilee vision fundamentally shaped my life”

“The Jubilee vision fundamentally shaped my life,” says Chris White. “In my job as a pastor, I understand that my work is about calling people in whatever they do to be able to follow Christ. I understand that Jesus is Lord of everything. That’s what I learned from the CCO.” Find out what else Chris [...]

 

CCO staff member Matt Ramsay opens coffee shop

Shippensburg University graduate and CCO staff member Matthew Ramsay has recently realized a dream: he and his wife, Kristin, have just opened a coffee shop near their alma mater. Do you want to find out how Matt is combining his passion for good coffee and college ministry? To find out how the Mosaic Coffee Company came [...]

 

Jubilee 2012 through the eyes of Byron Borger, Official Bookseller of the CCO

It has been my custom to share a rather long post this time each year, reflecting on our role at the annual Jubilee conference, sponsored by the CCO and filling you in a bit on the books that sold there. CCO is the campus ministry organization for whom we regularly sell books, that Beth and [...]

 

Jubilee 2012: Everything does matter

This past weekend, 2,500 college students packed the David L. Lawrence Convention Center in downtown Pittsburgh. They came from near and far to learn why “Everything Matters,” the theme of this year’s Jubilee conference. The conference is held every February to inform college students about their opportunity to have an impact on the world through [...]

 

“Ask a campus minister anything” at Shippensburg University

An ordinary-looking man holding a cup of coffee and standing next to a sign reading “ask a campus minister anything” was the sight that Shippensburg University students saw Monday outside of the Ezra Lehman Memorial Library… That “ordinary-looking man” is CCO staff member Matt Ramsay. Click here to find out why Matt is inviting questions [...]

 

Jubilee 2012 in pictures

Thanks to all who joined us this past weekend at Jubilee 2012! We hope you are sensing God’s call on your life and His work in every area of His creation. Stay tuned for stories from the weekend, but meanwhile, enjoy some of the images photographer Andrew Rush captured of the conference.

 

Jubilee 2012: Everything Matters (February 17-19 in Pittsburgh)

(Pittsburgh) February 13, 2012 — On February 17, 2012 thousands of college students will descend on the David L. Lawrence Convention Center in Pittsburgh for the annual Jubilee conference held by the CCO (Coalition for Christian Outreach). The conference is held each February to give students the opportunity to learn about Christian faith and how [...]

 

Why CCO President Dan Dupee loves Jubilee

Several years before Dan Dupee became President of the CCO, he served as a campus staff member at Penn State University. That’s where he met Nancy Owens (now Franson), a Penn State student who would grow up to be a freelance writer and blogger, and a good friend of Dan’s. Nancy recently interviewed Dan about [...]

 

CCO staff member Marcia Everett receives honors

Marcia Everett, PhD, is Professor of Communication Arts and director of The College Experience at Malone University, and a CCO staff member. Marcia has recently received two honors. She has been named to the Honor Roll of First-Year Student Advocates by the National Resource Center for The First-Year Experience and Students in Transition, and she has been recognized [...]

 

How Jubilee changed Caylynn Zeitz’s life

“I attended Jubilee in February 2011 and, much as the theme suggested, it changed everything,” says Caylynn Zeitz. “There was something about the speakers, the atmosphere, and the fellowship that got me thinking about my life and the decisions I had been making over the past year. I made several promises to God while I [...]

 

Blue Like Jazz, The Movie: exclusive pre-screening at Jubilee 2012

Have you read Blue Like Jazz? At Jubilee 2012, the CCO will be hosting a sneak-peek viewing of the new movie based on the best-selling book by Donald Miller! Tickets to this special viewing are available only to the first 200 Jubilee participants to claim a ticket on Saturday morning, February 18. The movie is slated [...]

 

The CCO welcomes entrepreneur Sylvia Wallace to CCAC

(Pittsburgh) February 6, 2012 — Founder and CEO of Dynasty Arts, Sylvia Wallace has been hired by the CCO to reach out to students at the Community College of Allegheny County’s Allegheny Campus. Dynasty Arts is a nonprofit multicultural arts organization which Sylvia founded January 15, 2010. The organization received its 501(c)3 tax exempt status on [...]

 

CCO wins 2011 Northeast Marketplace Ministry Award

On December 30, 2011, the CCO received the following notification from Drew Crandall, founder and president of Northeast Christians At Work: I am delighted to report that CCO was nominated, and subsequently selected, to receive a 2011 Northeast Marketplace Ministry Award in the “Sowing Seeds in the Region” category. Why? Because of your faithful efforts [...]

 

The CCO welcomes new staff member, Sam Pogorelski

(Pittsburgh) February 1, 2012—Sam Pogorelski has joined CCO staff to reach out to students at Columbus State Community College, The Dublin Center, in partnership with Shiloh Chapel. Sam recently graduated from Malone University with a degree in youth ministry and is newly married tp his wife, Kourtney. Prior to coming on board with the CCO, [...]

 

Steve Benson: “It dawned on me that I could merge my faith and my studies.”

“I went to college with a basic understanding of who Christ was and what my faith meant—that is, not a lot,” says Steve Benson. “My life and my faith were two totally separate things, and freshman year, I lived that way. I went to church on Sundays, but every other day was mine to do [...]

 

How Jubilee prepared Carrie Anderton for life after college

“I recently found the journal I used to take notes in during Jubilee conferences,” says Carrie Anderton, who attended Jubilee three of her four years of college. “It is truly amazing how things I heard and wrote down then have been applied in my life over the past seven years. I was reading back through [...]

 

Simon Huff: “Jubilee is the event of the year”

“Perhaps the most important thing I learned during my undergraduate days with the CCO is that our faith calls us to be connected to humanity and to the world, loving them and helping them turn to GOD, building up the Kingdom,” says Simon Huff. “I don’t care how strong your faith is, seeing thousands of [...]

 

Jubilee 2012: not just for college students

“When I was a college student, I talked like a college student, I thought like a college student, I reasoned like a college student, I went to Jubilee. When I became a professional, I put the ways of college behind me and started going to Jubilee Professional.” —Katie Tarara, Director of Communications, Serving Leaders (and [...]

 

On attending Jubilee as a high school student

“Jubilee is fantastic!” says Marie Leichliter. “The first year I went, I was only a junior in high school. I went almost every year thereafter. I had the opportunity to witness so many young people, like myself, loving their Lord and praising. Once I became a professional, I attended again and had an equally valuable [...]

 

High school students invited to Experience Jubilee

Jubilee 2012 is a conference designed to help college students catch a vision for how to serve God with ALL of their lives, and especially within their chosen field of study. But it’s never to early to begin thinking about these kinds of questions, which is why a special event has been created within the [...]

 

How the CCO equipped Phil Thompson to be an artist

“I decided to pursue my career as a musician because my involvement with CCO gave me the tools to explore my art in ways consonant with my faith,” says Phil Thompson, a graduate of the prestigious Oberlin College Conservatory. “I think as a composer, it really shapes the kinds of projects I’m interested in, and [...]

 

CCO named Best Christian Place to Work for tenth consecutive year

(Pittsburgh) January 3, 2012—For the tenth straight year, the CCO (Coalition for Christian Outreach) has been recognized as a Best Christian Workplace. The award is given out annually by the Best Christian Workplaces Institute (BCWI) to recognize outstanding Christian workplaces. Each year, employees from organizations around the country participate in the anonymous BCW survey. The [...]

 

Sarah Scheeser: “I don’t know if I would have gone back to church if it wasn’t for the CCO”

“I don’t know if I would have gone back to church during or after college if it wasn’t for the CCO presence on campus,” says Sarah Scheeser. “And my relationship with God now would be different and strained without that close connection I felt while in school with the people I know He had sent [...]

 

Richard Mouw to speak at Jubilee 2012

The countdown is on: Jubilee 2012 is just two months away, and the speaker line-up continues to evolve. Among others, we are excited to welcome philosopher, scholar, author and president of Fuller Theological Seminary, Richard Mouw, to the main stage. Click here to find out who else will be presenting at Jubilee, and click here to [...]

 

Duquesne University junior Alaina Webber serves the CCO as Events Intern

(Pittsburgh) December 12, 2011—Alaina Webber has recently joined the CCO (Coalition for Christian Outreach) to begin a four-month internship working with the Events Team. With the Jubilee conference approaching in February, Alaina looks to contribute to the effort. “Working for the CCO—a non-profit that specifically seeks to spread the love of Jesus in all that [...]

 

Lee Scott Joins CCO as First Ever Director of Staff Services

(Pittsburgh) December 19, 2011—Lee Scott has recently been hired by the CCO (Coalition for Christian Outreach) as the first-ever Director of Staff Services. The position has been created to enhance collaboration, advocacy, and communication for the CCO’s ministry on campus, as well as relationships between CCO leadership, support staff, campus staff and ministry partners. “This [...]

 

On helping students go home

As final exams are wrapping up at college and university campuses around the country, many students are preparing to head home for the holidays. The Faith ON Campus blog has some helpful insights about some of the challenges students and their parents may face with these homecomings: As students near the end of another term… [...]

 

How the CCO set Craig Carlson on the right path

“The CCO’s ministry was a miracle for me at Edinboro,” says Craig Carlson. “It’s like looking into a kaleidoscope of the many different directions I could have chosen to take and realizing that the CCO helped me pick the right path. That’s the major reason why Cindy and I support the CCO. We would hate [...]

 

Introducing Allisa Linfield, the new CCO Equipment Room Manager

(Pittsburgh) December 5, 2011—Allisa Linfield has joined the CCO (Coalition for Christian Outreach) to reach out to college students as part of the Experiential Designs (XD) team. The CCO’s XD team offers students the opportunity to draw closer to each other and God through wilderness trips and other experiential opportunities. Allisa graduated from the University [...]

 

How the CCO helped Mary Bukovac own her faith

“I would like to thank Ted and Melanie for always being there, praying for me and loving me through my time in college,” says Mary Bukovac. “It continued the foundation my mom began and it made more of a difference than I probably ever let them know.” Mary first met CCO staff worker Ted Schumacher [...]

 

New CCO staff member Erin Sabol is reaching students at Clarion University

(Pittsburgh) November 30, 2011—Erin Sabol has joined the CCO (Coalition for Christian Outreach) to reach the students at Clarion University of Pennsylvania as a part-time campus minister. She is partnering with Koinonia Christian Fellowship and will serve Clarion students alongside Katie Black and Doug Hull. Erin was an international worker in Buenos Aires, Argentina for [...]

 

Fil Alleva: From Jubilee to Microsoft

“Because of my experience with the CCO, I can see the difference that living an integrated life makes for people like me in the high tech world,” says Fil Alleva, General Manager for the Speech Group at Microsoft and one of the early developers of speech recognition software. A graduate of Carnegie Mellon University, Fil [...]

 

Cliff Holmes joins CCO staff to minister to Penn State University students

(Pittsburgh) November 21, 2011—In September 2011, Clifton Holmes accepted the position as Director of Student Ministry with Unity Church of Jesus Christ, in partnership with the CCO (Coalition for Christian Outreach) at Penn State University. “I truly want to make a difference in the lives of others,” says Holmes. “Today’s college students are destined to be our [...]

 

Theresa Miller: “Your Gospel is so much bigger than mine”

“When I first met my husband, he had a very legalistic understanding of Christianity,” Theresa Miller says. “I kept talking to him about how dichotomized the church is—how we are concerned about our personal salvation but ignore such issues as societal justice or how faith applies to our work. I found my copy of the [...]

 

Responding to the crisis at Penn State

As the Penn State University community reels from the events that have unfolded on that campus over the past week, CCO staff members seek to help students process and respond to the crisis in State College, Pennsylvania. The sex abuse scandal that has consumed Penn State’s storied football program has been well documented. Please join [...]

 

Why Andrew Aloe chooses to serve on the CCO’s Board of Directors

The CCO is an organization that gives a “safe harbor” for college students. I choose to serve on the CCO Board of Directors because I wish my college had an organization like the CCO when I was in school. The CCO is a place where one can find peace and help with the challenges of [...]

 

Keeping the faith at the University of Findlay

CCO staff member Mike Barnhart ministers to students at the University of Findlay in Findlay, Ohio, in partnership with Gateway Church. He was recently quoted in the October 11, 2011 issue of Findlay’s newspaper, The Courier, in an article highlighting the spiritual life of UF students. Click here to read the article, entitled “Universities offer [...]

 

Why Pittsburgh Steeler Daniel Sepulveda gives to the CCO

This article first appeared in the fall 2011 issue of On Campus magazine. Daniel Sepulveda is best known as the Pittsburgh Steelers’ premier punter. One of four brothers, Daniel grew up in a strong Christian home. He went to Baylor University, where he received the Ray Guy Award given annually to the best punter in [...]

 

CCO makes a difference in the lives of Kent State football players

CCO staff members Ted Schumacher and Avery Danage devote their lives to reaching out to student athletes at Kent State University every day on campus, and every Tuesday evening through FCA/TNT in the Word. This Fellowship of Christian Athletes gathering was highlighted in a recent article published at kentwired.com. Find out how the CCO’s presence at [...]

 

Jubilee 2012 registration goes live at 7:30pm tonight!

The countdown is almost over! At 7:30pm EST on Thursday, October 13, 2011, the Jubilee 2012 website will launch and registration will officially open for  the conference! Jubilee 2012 will take place at the Westin Convention Center in downtown Pittsburgh during the weekend of February 17-19. Register right away to get the early bird prices, [...]

 

Derek Melleby preaches at Christ Community Church of the South Hills

CCO staff member Derek Melleby serves as Director of the College Transition Initiative, which is a collaborative effort of the CCO and the Center for Parent/Youth Understanding. On Saturday, October 8, Derek presented his College Transition Seminar to high school students, their parents and youth workers at Mt. Lebanon United Presbyterian Church in Pittsburgh’s South [...]

 

The CCO has been named one of Pittsburgh’s Top Workplaces in 2011!

On Thursday, October 6, 2011, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette published   Pittsburgh’s Top Workplaces 2011, a list of the best places to work in the Greater Pittsburgh region. The CCO has been named to the list. The evaluation for the Top Workplaces program is based upon feedback from an employee survey that Pittsburgh-area CCO staff members [...]

 

Celebrating 40 years of CCO ministry at Allegheny College

Just as the CCO turned 40 years old in 2011, so did Allegheny Christian Outreach, one of the first student-led fellowship groups advised by a CCO staff person. During Allegheny College’s homecoming weekend (September 30-October 2, 2011), more than 70 current and former students gathered to celebrate how God has worked in the lives of [...]

 

TODAY ONLY! Multiply your gift to the CCO!

Today is the day! Today only, from 12am until 11:59pm EST, every gift to the CCO will be matched by The Pittsburgh Foundation. If this is your first time giving to the CCO through the Day of Giving, or if you give more than you did last year, your gift will be matched twice:  once [...]

 

September 23 is Chris Cooke Day in the City of Pittsburgh

Chris Cooke is an associate staff member of the CCO, and he currently works as Executive Director of the Pittsburgh Urban Leadership Service Experience (PULSE), an organization committed to cultivating a community of young servant leaders to transform Pittsburgh. Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl has recognized Chris’ commitment to service and the City of Pittsburgh by honoring him with [...]

 

The high calling of the trades

CCO Vice President for Strategic Partnerships Samuel Chez was invited to address the student body of the Williamson Free School of Mechanical Trades at their annual convocation on September 13, 2011. Dan Hayner, who works for Williamson through CCO as a student ministries leader, gave the invocation for the ceremony. Click here to find out more [...]

 

For what may be the last time: Multiply your gift to the CCO!

On Tuesday, October 4, 2011, from 12am until 11:59pm EST, every gift to the CCO will be matched by The Pittsburgh Foundation. If this is your first time giving to the CCO through the Day of Giving, or if you give more than you did last year, your gift will be matched twice:  once by [...]

 

Getting to know CCO staff member Khadija Adams

Khadija Adams serves as the Volunteer Service Coordinator at Ohio Dominican University in Columbus. Click here to find out why she thinks students should participate in the Ocean City Beach Project, her advice for first-year college students, and her first job.

 

A Q & A with CCO staff member Erica Young Reitz

Erica Young Reitz serves the CCO as the Calvary-PSU Connection, reaching out to students at Penn State’s University Park campus in cooperation with Calvary Baptist Church. Click here to find out why she thinks every college student should attend Jubilee at least once, what advice she’d give a first-year college student, and the best book [...]

 

CCO seeks candidates for five campus positions

INDIANA Second Presbyterian Church: Campus Minister to Butler University A large PC (USA) church located in the affluent community of Meridian Hills just north of downtown Indianapolis, Second Presbyterian Church attracts a large number of business people, so the church reflects that culture in terms of their expectations. Worship style is traditional. The church describes [...]

 

Catching up with CCO staffer Garret White

Texas A&M University graduate Garret White reaches out to students at Youngstown State University. Click here to find out why Garret chooses to work for the CCO, what he thinks makes a successful leader and what’s on his iPod.

 

CCO Staff Spotlight: Maddie du Breuil

Maddie du Breuil is the co-director of the Kirk House at Gannon University in Erie, Pennsylvania in partnership with First Presbyterian Church of the Covenant. Click here to find out how she feels God has prepared her to do campus ministry, the craziest thing a student has ever asked her, and her favorite board game.

 

David Baily and the CCO’s legacy

“The CCO has shaped every area of my Christian walk from birth on,” says David Baily. “Working for the CCO was the most formative part of my life and faith journey—the teaching, training, and fellowship of CCO staff, and the application of that learning was a catalyst for stretching me and accelerating my growth as [...]

 

Stephanie Summers: from the CCO to the Center for Public Justice

“Because I worked for the CCO, I have an immensely better understanding of the big worldview questions that people have,” says Stephanie Summers, Chief Operating Officer of the Center for Public Justice. “When it comes to something as abstract and historically demonized or mishandled by the church as our political lives, I come from a [...]

 

Getting to know CCO staff member Jamie Zackavitch

Jamie Zackavitch serves the CCO as Experiential Designs Administrator and as an XD Resource Associate, offering college students opportunities to draw closer to each other and God through wilderness trips and other experiential opportunities. Click here to find out her three favorite things about her job, what she believes are the biggest challenges today’s college [...]

 

How the CCO prepared Rich Noble to be a pastor and a professor

“Little did I know at the time how much I would reflect on the things I gleaned inside and outside the classroom at Geneva College—experiences, hanging out with CCO staff—that have played out in current ministry experiences and discussions,” says Rich Noble. “That’s true on the pastoral side and in the classroom. I go back [...]

 

A Q & A with CCO staff member Stephen Bauthier

Stephen Bauthier serves students at Waynesburg University as the Residence Hall Director of Thayer Hall. Click here to find out why he chooses to do ministry with the CCO, his personal heroes and the best movie he’s seen lately.

 

Serving God at the Walt Disney Company

“The Jubilee conference was one of the first times that I realized I didn’t need to be in ministry in order to do ministry,” says Kristi Kratzer. “Jubilee helped me understand that faith is an everyday, 24-hour thing, and is not just about going to church and studying the Bible. I need to live out [...]

 

CCO Staff Spotlight: Lisa Hershey

Lisa Hershey is working for the CCO at Juniata College as the managing barista at our partner, Standing Stone Coffee Company. Click here to find out her three favorite things about her job, what she would do if she wasn’t a campus minister, and what she enjoys doing in her free time.

 

How the CCO gave Pastor Pete a vision for church ministry

“The CCO taught me the importance of the local church and the necessity of plugging college students in,” says Pete Daniels, pastor of First Baptist Church in Williamstown, Massachusetts. “When I first came here, there were two students in the pews. This fall, we had upwards of 70 students worshiping with us! It’s important to [...]

 

Catching up with CCO staffer Mitch Marcello

Mitch Marcello ministers to students at Wyotech, an automotive trade school in Blairsville, Pennsylvania, in partnership with Calvary Evangelical Free Church. Click here to find out why Mitch works for the CCO, his favorite places to hang out with students and where he would visit if money were no object.

 

How the CCO prepared Monique Carter for a nursing career

“My time as a student involved with the CCO influences what I do today because it has truly made me cherish my calling from God as a registered nurse,” says Monique Carter. “The CCO has inspired me to live my Christian faith in every area of life. I stay prayerful every day and to allow [...]

 

Getting to know CCO staff member Jennifer Sanders

Malone University graduate Jennifer Sanders reaches out to students at Kenyon College in partnership with the McIlvaine Fund Board. Click here to find out why she chooses to do ministry with the CCO, who influenced her the most during her own college years, and her favorite board game.

 

Matthew Carroll: integrating his Christian faith in the “real world”

“The CCO helped me continue on with my faith walk and allowed me to integrate my faith into the real world and not do what most people do, keeping them in separate compartments,” says Matt Carroll. “I have to thank Mike for consistently encouraging me—forcefully at times!—to continue in my faith and see the potential [...]

 

A Q & A with CCO staff member Andy Gudeman

Andy Gudeman serves as the Director of Young Adult and College Ministries at Wesley United Methodist Church and reaches out to students at Penn State Harrisburg. Click here to find out why he works for the CCO, his advice for first-year college students, and how he listens to music.

 

Susan Post, the CCO and Esperanza Health Center

Susan Post’s first exposure to the CCO’s ministry came during her high school years, through the CCO staff members who worked through her home church in Erie, Pennsylvania. “At that point in time, Christianity was not a direct part of my life, even though I was active in our church,” Susan remembers. “But as I [...]

 

CCO Staff Spotlight: Mollie Little

Mollie Little ministers to students at her alma mater, Allegheny College. Click here to find out her three favorite things about her job, what she would be doing if not campus ministry, and her first job.

 

Brett Latta: “Because of the CCO, I’m always trying to find ways to apply my faith in day-to-day work settings.”

“After 15 years of working in the ‘real world,’ I realize how much of a challenge it is to get people to recognize that there is a God and that He cares about us,” says Brett Latta. “I’m constantly thinking about the things that I learned in college, and even now I’m rereading a book [...]

 

Catching up with CCO staffer Chris Bean

Chris Bean reaches out to students at the University of Cincinnati in partnership with Southwestern Ohio Church of the Nazarene. Click here to find out his three favorite things about his job, what he believes are the biggest challenges students face today, and his favorite book.

 

Erin Ferut: “The CCO helped me become a Christian”

Even though she entered college with a lot of faith questions, Erin Ferut’s decision to attend Kent State University was largely influenced by meeting CCO staff worker Ted Schumacher when she was being recruited to Kent’s track and field team. “Being introduced to Ted during my recruiting visit had a huge impact on my choice [...]

 

Getting to know CCO staff member Rachel Stephan-Simko

Rachel Stephan-Simko joined the CCO in 2010 to reach out to students at Eastern University and Cabrini College. Click here to find out why Rachel chooses to work for the CCO, the craziest thing that has ever happened in ministry, and her favorite board game.

 

How the CCO prepared Daniel for the Real World

“Allison and I got married at the end of college, and we started having to make difficult life decisions,” says Daniel Dlugos. “Where will we live? When do we start a family? (Right away!) How do we choose a church community? Being a part of the CCO and STAND at Cal U. gave me the [...]

 

A Q & A with CCO staff member Sam Richard

2005 Grove City College graduate Sam Richard ministers to students at his alma mater through his role as residence hall director. Click here to find out why he thinks people should consider working for the CCO, who influenced him the most when he was in college, and the best book he’s recently read.

 

How the CCO equipped Grove City College’s Vice President for Student Life and Learning

“My goal is that one day student development professionals would say Grove City College has one of the best student development programs in Christian higher education,” says Larry Hardesty. “I’d hope they would say we know our stuff, are committed to Christ, and are dedicated to helping our students to grow. And when people ask [...]

 

CCO Staff Spotlight: Katie Gent

Katie Gent works with students at Eastern University and Villanova University in cooperation with Church of the Saviour in Wayne, Pennsylvania. Click here to find out why she works for the CCO, the advice she gives first-year students, and what she does before she goes to sleep at night.

 

From Grove City to Jerusalem: the ripple effect of CCO ministry

“Our lives are ministries, and I believe the CCO reflects this very well,” says Ashley Dufty. “There are so many people within the CCO who spend almost all day every day working and caring for a particular population—college students. I believe that the three years I have been here in Jerusalem have allowed me to [...]

 

Catching up with CCO staffer Greg Burdette

Greg Burdette joined CCO staff in 2009 to serve as Director of Graduate & Young Adult Ministry at Bellefield Presbyterian Church in Pittsburgh. Click here to find out why Greg works for the CCO, his favorite places to hang out with students, and his sports team allegiances.

 

How the CCO’s ministry set Glen on course

“If I hadn’t found the CCO’s ministry during my first week of school, I may not have found the Christian friends that I made, and without them, I may not have stuck with my faith,” says Point Park University graduate Glen Richards. “I had not been a Christian for very long when I started college, [...]

 

Getting to know CCO staff member Emily Zeh

Emily Zeh reaches out to students through her position as director of the Potter’s House at Edinboro University in partnership with the Edinboro Ministry Council. Click here to find out Emily’s favorite places to hang out with students, what she would do if she wasn’t working in campus ministry, and her favorite movie.

 

PhilaU’s Unity Week Award goes to CCO staff member Amy Nichols

CCO staff member Amy Nichols received The Unity Week Award for Inclusion and Community at Philadelphia University during the school’s third annual Unity Week celebration. Unity Week took place during the week of March 21-31, 2011 and is a campus-wide effort that affirms the diversity represented on campus. The Inclusion and Community award is given [...]

 

A Q & A with CCO staff member Patrick Emery

Patrick Emery serves as the Assistant Director of the Pisgah Program at Geneva College. The Pisgah Program is an adventure-based ministry that seeks to serve both college students and the community through the context of experiential education. Click here to find out Patrick’s three favorite things about his job, what he thinks makes a successful [...]

 

How the CCO’s ministry shaped this librarian’s life

“I really can’t imagine life without the CCO’s involvement during that time of my life,” says Austina Jordan. “I continue to draw on the things I learned as a student and staff member. It shapes the way I talk to students, it makes me a better librarian, a better wife and a better step-mom. I [...]

 

CCO Staff Spotlight: Kristie Martel

Kristie Martel first joined the CCO in 1998 to reach out to students at Clarion University of Pennsylvania, and since 2004, she has worked with students at Geneva College. Click here to find out what she thinks is the best thing about working in campus ministry, who influenced her the most when she was in [...]

 

How the CCO helped Chris Abrams figure out what he wanted to be when he grew up

“I had no thought of working in student development before my time as a student with Bonnie Jones,” says Chris Abrams. “The CCO influenced me to think differently about the world around me. CCO staff helped me see Christianity and service to God in a whole new light. I used to see Christianity from the [...]

 

Catching up with CCO staffer Mark Steffey

Since 2008, Mark Steffey has been ministering to student athletes at the University of Pittsburgh. As a student at Ohio Wesleyan University, he was involved in the CCO’s ministry during his own college years, and after spending more than a decade ministering to youth in the Pittsburgh area, he decided to join the CCO himself. [...]

 

Rebecca Stevenson: “The Ocean City Beach Project changed me.”

“The CCO’s ministry through the Beach Project invited me to take Jesus Christ seriously,” says Rebecca Stevenson. “It is sad but true to say that I found no teaching in my home church—which I loved—or at college that called me to live differently, that demonstrated to me that following Christ meant a radical shift in [...]

 

Getting to know CCO staff member Tanya Hershberger

Tanya Hershberger joined the CCO in 1990, and since 1991, she has been reaching out to students at Malone University in Canton, Ohio. Click here to find out why Tanya chooses to work for the CCO, why she thinks students should consider participating in summer ministry opportunities, and her first job.

 

How the CCO prepared Jack Porter to make a difference in the world

Three decades after encountering the CCO’s ministry when he was a student at Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Jack Porter continues to live out a seven-day-a-week faith, in his family, his church, his workplace, and the nation at large. In 2001, Jack was appointed by President George W. Bush to serve as Director of the White [...]

 

A Q & A with CCO staff member Matt Stumpf

Matt Stumpf joined the CCO in 2010 to work with students at Penn State Altoona in partnership with the Altoona Collegiate Outreach. Click here to find out how God prepared him to do campus ministry, his advice for first-year college students and what sports teams he roots for.

 

Catching up with CCO staff member Jen Burkholder

A recent transplant from California, Jennifer Burkholder joined the CCO in 2010 to reach out to students at La Roche College. Click here to find out what made her choose to work for the CCO, the most exciting thing currently happening on La Roche’s campus, and her favorite board game.

 

How did Jubilee change how you see yourself?

Jubilee 2011 is now in the history books, a weekend that promised, audaciously, that “it could change everything.” For some students, it already has. Here is one from-the-gut reflection from a college student about how the Jubilee conference was a catalyst for change: How did Jubilee change how you see yourself? I always thought that [...]

 

Getting to know CCO staff member Kris Herman

Kris Herman has been on CCO campus staff at Kent State University since 1999. He enjoys many aspects of serving Kent State students, and his number one desire is to see students enter into a saving relationship with Jesus Christ. Click here to find out how Kris was called into campus ministry, why he thinks [...]

 

Amanda Edris: “Jubilee forced me to think about how I was going to use my calling as worship unto the Lord.”

“Jubilee forced me to think about how I was going to use my calling, my profession, as worship unto the Lord,” says Amanda Edris. “The CCO was where I learned that church is all the time, that our lives should be a constant worship service. My faith influences most every decision I make or how [...]

 

Catching up with CCO staffer Emily Jensen

Emily Jensen joined the CCO in 2009 to serve as a residence hall director for Waynesburg University. Click here to find out what Emily thinks is the best thing about working in campus ministry, why every college student should attend the Jubilee conference at least once, and her favorite book.

 

How the Jubilee conference inspired D’Juan Hopewell

“The Jubilee conference helped me gain a much clearer perspective of how we, as followers of Jesus, are to make the Kingdom of God relevant in our world,” says D’Juan Hopewell. “I was challenged to make that Kingdom Jesus taught about a reality in the 21st century.” Click here to read D’Juan’s story.

 

CCO Staff Spotlight: Miles Adams

Miles reaches out to students at the College of Staten Island in New York City through his role as Assistant Pastor of Crossroads Church, a church plant that he helped start in 2002. Click here to find out how Miles was called into campus ministry, his advice for first-year college students, and his person hero.

 

The long-term effect of Jubilee on Cindy Carlson

“I was not going to go my freshmen year because of the cost,” says Cindy Carslon. “[My CCO staff worker] Ginger quietly contacted my mother and slipped an envelope under my door with the money. This still brings tears to my eyes. I had never been to Pittsburgh. The music, the worship, the study sessions, [...]

 

A Q&A with CCO staff member Rachel Engels

Rachel Engels joined the CCO to serve students at Westminster College as a resident director. Click here to find out why Rachel chose to do ministry with the CCO, her favorite places to hang out with students, and what music would be on her iPod, if she had one.

 

How the Jubilee conference taught Samantha Ressler how to serve

“Jubilee provided me with a sense of awareness of how to give and serve,” says Samantha Ressler. “The desire to serve and have an impact has always been there, but I’ve never known where I fit in order to do so—where my gifts and passions could have an effect on the needs of the world. [...]

 

Getting to know CCO Staff Member Carol Mitchell

Growing up in Altoona, PA, Carol Mitchell probably never imagined she would graduate from Penn State Altoona and, soon after, join the CCO to reach students at her alma mater. Click here to find out why Carol chose to do ministry with the CCO, her favorite book to read with students, and her favorite quote.

 

Catching up with CCO staffer Michael Barnhart

Since 2008, Michael Barnhart has been reaching out to students at the University of Findlay in Ohio, in partnership with Gateway Church. Find out what Michael thinks is the best thing about doing campus ministry, what his first job was, and which sports teams he cheers for.

 

How the Ocean City Beach Project prepared Andy Polack for the rest of his life

“There is a simple phrase that we learned at OCBP which will always stick with me,” says Andy Polack. “‘To know is to have responsibility to, is to care for.’ As Christians, if we know of people in need, we have a responsibility to them, and we must find ways to care for them. This [...]

 

CCO Staff Spotlight: Katie Black

Katie Black works with students at Clarion University of Pennsylvania, where she co-leads a group called Koinonia Christian Fellowship. Find out why Katie works for the CCO, why she thinks students should participate in the Ocean City Beach Project and her favorite board game.

 

2011 marks CCO’s ninth year as Best Christian Workplace

(Pittsburgh) January 4, 2011—The Best Christian Workplaces Institute (BCWI) brought in the New Year by announcing for the ninth consecutive year that the Coalition for Christian Outreach (CCO) is one of the 2011 Best Christian Workplaces in the US. Every year organizations around the country participate in the anonymous BCW survey. The survey measures employee [...]

 

How the CCO prepared Sarah Dence to be a leader

“A lot of what’s happening in my life today is a result of what I learned through the CCO,” says Sarah Dence. “I would still be involved in the church, but I wouldn’t be spiritually equipped to be in leadership. I am an elder and I lead the mission committee at my church, which is [...]

 

Why Curt and Phyllis Thompson give to the CCO

This article first appeared in the fall 2010 issue of On Campus magazine. Curt Thompson is a psychiatrist in private practice who recently authored Anatomy of the Soul: Surprising Connections between Neuroscience and Spiritual Practices that Can Transform Your Life (Tyndale, 2010). Phyllis Thompson is a social worker with Arlington County Public Schools in Virginia, [...]

 

A Q & A with CCO staff member Herb Kolbe

Herb Kolbe ministers to students at Duquesne University and Point Park University in partnership with First Presbyterian Church of Pittsburgh. Find out why Herb thinks people should consider working for the CCO, who influenced him most when he was a college student, and what he did for his first job.

 

How Jubilee changed Michael Meulstee’s life

“I first attended Jubilee in 2007, and that was the year that really changed my life,” says Michael Meulstee. “I had been a Christian for years, but I had not had an active relationship with Christ. Going to Jubilee was most definitely the single act that brought me back to Christ and will always remind [...]

 

Jonny Cagwin: Arm of the local church

This article first appeared in the fall 2010 issue of On Campus magazine. “Less than a third of the students that I know attend church,” says Jonny Cagwin. “I encourage all the students that I work with to connect with a church. Even if  Ascension is not the best fit for them, I help them [...]

 

Getting to know CCO staff member Andy Harlan

Andy Harlan joined the CCO in 2009 to serve students at Gannon University in partnership with First Presbyterian Church of the Covenant in Erie, Pennsylvania. Andy is the co-director of the Kirk House, a student discipleship house. Click here to find out why he thinks people should consider working for the CCO, where he enjoys [...]

 

The CCO and Cross-Cultural Ministry

This article first appeared in the fall 2010 issue of On Campus magazine. The minority college student population in the United States has grown by 50%, an increase of five million, over the last decade. Over 250,000 students just from India, China and South Korea attend American universities. Urban missiologists have been telling us for [...]

 

Catching up with CCO staffer Rebecca Verley

Rebecca Verley joined the CCO to reach out to students at California University of Pennsylvania as the Coordinator for Discipleship Programs in partnership with the United Christian Campus Ministry. Click here to find out what Rebecca thinks is the most exciting thing happening at Cal U right now, her advice to first-year students and what [...]

 

How the CCO convinced Jessika White the church is important

“Being involved in a church body is a really big deal to me, and I don’t know if I would have come to that conclusion without the CCO’s influence,” says Jessika White. “I feel like I spend my money and time more faithfully because of my experience with the CCO. I am really passionate about [...]

 

Reaching the World from two U.S. towns (Part 2)

This article first appeared in the fall 2010 issue of On Campus magazine. Ken and Rosie Wagoner have been reaching out to Chinese scholars for 22 years. Bill and Barb Saxton have been reaching internationals at Penn State for 28 years. Walt and Sue Johnston join Bill and Barb Saxton in working with international students [...]

 

CCO Staff Spotlight: Scott Evans

Scott Evans partners with Shippensburg Presbyterian Church to minister out to students at Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania. Click here to find out what made Scott choose to work for the CCO, who influenced him the most when he was in college, and the best book he’s recently read.

 

How the CCO inspired Dr. Todd Wahrenberger to serve the poor

Todd Wahrenberger serves as the Medical Director for the North Side Christian Health Center, which he founded in 1995 with two fellow physicians and college friends, Mark Guy and Dan Holt. While a student at Gannon, Todd knew he wanted to help people; he knew he wanted to be a doctor. CCO staff members helped [...]

 

Reaching the World from two U.S. towns

This article first appeared in the fall 2010 issue of On Campus magazine. “For the most part, this is the first time these Chinese scholars have ever read the Bible,” says Ken Wagoner. “Although China is changing rapidly, these scholars have grown up in a world where to believe anything religious is considered superstitious and [...]

 

A Q & A with CCO staff member Jamie Donne

Jamie Donne ministers to students at Washington and Jefferson College in partnership with Trinity Episcopal Church in Washington, Pennsylvania. Click here to find out why she works for the CCO, what advice she would give to first-year students, and what music she’s listening to lately.

 

Becca Fong and The Church of the Holy Donut

“I think the CCO model for ministry is beautiful,” says Becca Fong. “It’s great to have Christian mentors on campus to reach out to college students and connect them to each other. And it’s wonderful to have a tie-in to a local church body, where students can interact with different generations of people. God used [...]

 

Changing the world

This article first appeared in the fall 2010 issue of On Campus magazine. Did you know that 25% of all of the world’s future leaders are studying in the United States right now? That statistic is courtesy of the U.S. State Department, and it’s been circulating for several years now. It still boggles my mind. [...]

 

Getting to know CCO staff member Greg Sovereign

For several years, Greg and his wife, Ashley, were involved in sending high school and college teams on short-term mission trips. After working with several college teams, they decided to pursue campus ministry in order to work with students full-time. They joined the CCO in 2007 and began serving students at Arcadia University in Glenside, [...]

 

How the CCO gave Audrey Warfel a big-picture faith

“My time as part of the CCO ministry was a very clear and defining stepping stone in my life as Christian,” says Audrey Warfel. “I had heard about God and his desire to have a relationship with us, and the need to tell others about the good news, but until college, I had never stood [...]

 

A Q & A with CCO staff member Kathy Kinzer

Kathy Kinzer ministers to students at Duquesne University, and she has been on CCO staff since 2006. Click here to find out why Kathy works for the CCO, what Scripture verse best encapsulates her life right now, and what’s on her iPod. Click here to read how the CCO’s ministry transformed Kathy’s life when she [...]

 

Doug Forsberg: “Without the CCO, I’d be a less effective pastor.”

“I’ve told a number of people that the foundations of how I do ministry as a pastor were built during my time with the CCO,” Doug says. “Without that, I’d be a much less effective pastor. The CCO gave me a theological foundation and taught me how to read the scriptures. I learned straight off [...]

 

CCO Staff Spotlight: Chris Ansell

Chris Ansell ministers to students at the University of Pittsburgh in partnership with Bellefield Presbyterian Church. click here to find out what made Chris decide to do ministry with the CCO, who influenced him the most when he was a college student, and his sports team allegiances.

 

Tim and Kathy Rankin: How the CCO has been informing their lives for more than three decades

“Because of learning through the CCO that my whole life belongs to God, and that he wants everything to be touched by his hand, I’ve tried to make choices that reflect those beliefs,” says Kathy. — “If I had not had the benefit of wise CCO staff and the educational opportunities presented through Jubilee, I [...]

 

A Q & A with CCO staff member Tara Atchison

Tara Atchison reaches out to students at Temple University in partnership with liberty church east in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Click here to find out why Tara chooses to work for the CCO, what advice she’d give a first-year college student, and what kind of music she enjoys listening to.

 

How the CCO’s outdoor ministry changed Jim Paul’s life

“God used different ministries of the CCO to guide me into not just my current profession, but pointed me in a direction that I plan on continuing for the rest of my life,” says Jim Paul, Director of Adventure Education at the Ligonier Camp and Conference Center in Ligonier, Pennsylvania. The CCO, he believes, is [...]

 

Getting to know CCO staff member Megan McKinley

Megan McKinley has been ministering to students at Chatham University in partnership with Shadyside Presbyterian Church since 2005. Click here to find out why Megan thinks people should consider working for the CCO, who had the most influence on her during her own college years at the University of Pittsburgh, and where she worked for [...]

 

Katy Verdesoto: How the CCO taught her to love her neighbor

“If it weren’t for the CCO ministry, I would not have chosen the career path I chose, nor would I have the values I currently hold,” says Katy Verdesoto, a community outreach nurse. “Each decision I make, from the day-to-day to major life events, is governed by my faith. Because of my faith, I have [...]

 

How the CCO shaped Founder of the Center for Parent/Youth Understanding Walt Mueller’s Life

“So much of what I experienced with the CCO—as a student, through staff training and so on—is still unfolding for me today,” says Walt Mueller, Founder and President of the Center for Parent/Youth Understanding. “It is fluid and alive, and I draw from it all the time—what we heard and read, people we knew and [...]

 

How the CCO changed a future pastor’s life

“The whole Christian experience at Westminster College really changed my life,” says Kay Balderose. “I moved from the hedonistic, pleasure-seeking, wild and crazy college lifestyle to realizing that because of Jesus, I was a worthwhile person and I had value. Students who knew me as a senior didn’t believe the stories of what I was [...]

 

Your gift to the CCO will be multiplied for one day only!

On Wednesday, October 13th, from 12am until 11:59pm, your gift will be matched by The Pittsburgh Foundation. During this 24-hour period, all gifts made to the CCO will be matched from a pot of $500,000. All gifts will benefit the CCO’s Annual Fund, as it will not be possible to designate your contribution otherwise. If [...]

 

Catching up with CCO staffer Reed Verdesoto

Reed Verdesoto was involved in the CCO’s ministry during his years as a student at the University of Pittsburgh, and today, he reaches out to students at the Art Institute of Pittsburgh. Click here to read about Reed’s three favorite things about his job, what he thinks he’s be doing if he wasn’t in campus [...]

 

Lauren Fabich: Living out her faith in every area of life

“My involvement in the CCO’s ministry gave me a good grasp on how to share my faith with people,” says Waynesburg University graduate Lauren Fabich. “I draw on what I learned through the ministry every time I get to spend time with the youth from church, and I live it out through being a parent, [...]

 

CCO Staff Spotlight: Lindsay Reedy

Lindsay Reedy reaches out to students at Juniata College in partnership with Standing Stone Coffee Company. Click here to find out why she works for the CCO, why she thinks students should consider participating in the CCO-sponsored Ocean City Beach Project, and her favorite board game.

 

Ken MacLeod: “The CCO taught me how to live with purpose”

“I remember a friend at Messiah saying, ‘Let’s face it, we’re all just in college to increase our market value,’” Ken MacLeod remembers. “I didn’t like that assessment, but I didn’t have an intelligent response. Being involved with the CCO’s ministry as a student, and later as a staff member, helped me to articulate a [...]

 

A Q & A with CCO staff member Jim Hagan

Jim Hagan reaches out to students in northwest Washington, DC, particularly at Georgetown and American Universities. Click here to find out why Jim chooses to work for the CCO, who had the most influence on him during his own college years, and the best book he’s read lately.

 

Dorcas Bethel: CCO’s ministry was “like getting a second degree”

“Being a part of [CCO-sponsored] Allegheny Christian Outreach was like getting a second degree for me. It is also the ‘degree’ that I now use most often. I was challenged to think critically from a Christian perspective through all four years.” Allegheny College graduate Dorcas Bethel currently serves as a Social Work Supervisor in the [...]

 

Getting to know CCO staff member Stephanie Wessel

Stephanie Wessel joined the CCO in 2000 to minister to students at Penn State University. She serves as the advisor of Crux Adventures, through which she spends a lot of time in the wilderness with college students. Click here to read about Steph’s top three favorite things about her job, why she thinks students should [...]

 

The CCO is in the Baily family’s blood

Chuck and Shirley Baily became the first CCO staff people to work as residence hall directors, working with students at Waynesburg College (now University). David, the oldest of Chuck and Shirley’s three children, spent his first two years of life living in the residence hall. And when David grew up, he and his wife, Jen, [...]

 

Catching up with CCO staffer Jeff Leon

Jeff Leon reaches out to students at Malone University, in Canton, Ohio. He works out of the Campus Ministry Office, focusing his outreach on athletes. Click here to find out why he works for the CCO, why he thinks students should consider participating in the CCO-sponsored Ocean City Beach Project, and which sports teams he [...]

 

CCO staff spotlight: Amanda Ansorge

Amanda Ansorge is working as Co-Coordinator of Titan Traverse at Westminster College. Titan Traverse is an experiential, outdoor leadership program intended to further student development by engaging the wilderness. Click here to find out Amanda’s three favorite things about your job, why she thinks students should participate in the CCO-sponsored Leadership & Discipleship in the [...]

 

From college to high school: the ripple effect of the CCO’s ministry

“Becoming involved in the ministry at Westminster College with FCA was my turning point during my college years. It is part of my testimony of how God and my faith has changed the person I am today,” says Nick White. “Today, as a teacher in a public school, sharing my faith is centered around being [...]

 

Getting to know CCO staff member Jessica Holland

Jessica Holland joined CCO staff in 2006 to minister to students at Ohio Wesleyan University. She currently reaches out to students at Malone University in Canton, Ohio. Click here to find out why Jessica works for the CCO, what advice she’d give a first-year college student, and what’s on her iPod.

 

The CCO’s lasting influence on the Sespico family

“If the CCO had not been present on the University of Pittsburgh campus, I may have found another group of believers and been able to grow and mature in my faith, but I’m convinced I may never have seen the breadth of God’s Kingdom in ways the CCO made possible,” says Stacie Sespico. “Without the [...]

 

A Q & A with CCO staff member Justin McGeary

Justin McGeary reaches out to students at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York. He works in partnership with Chesterton House to gather students together to engage in conversations  about life and faith, and to have fun. Click here to find out what made Justin choose to do ministry with the CCO, who influenced him the [...]

 

What the CCO taught Jefferson Ellis about being a pastor

“I learned what it meant to integrate my faith into all areas of my life—classes, work, friendships,” says Jefferson Ellis. “The CCO re-focused and centered me. I remember taking on too many extracurricular activities, and I had all these assignments to do, and Drew and Keith would help me prioritize; they asked me what God [...]

 

Catching up with CCO staffer Heather Strong

Messiah College graduate Heather Strong reaches out to students at Slippery Rock University this fall, in partnership with Grace Anglican Church. Heather enjoys serving as an arm of a local church congregation in outreach to college students, and she is especially excited about inviting students to the Jubilee conference. Click here to find out why [...]

 

Rachel Maize’s real faith

“[CCO staff member] Willemina introduced me to a faith that is real,” Rachel Maize says. “She helped me question different worldviews and begin to articulate my own. While in college, I learned about God’s forgiveness, the difference between being a ‘basically good person’ and being a completely sinful person. Whereas the former is without hope, [...]

 

CCO staff spotlight: Elliott Simko

Elliott Simko ministers to students at his alma mater, Eastern University, and Cabrini College in partnership with Manoa Presbyterian in Havertown, Pennsylvania. Click here to find out why Elliott works for the CCO, what he believes makes a successful leader, and what he does before he goes to sleep at night.

 

How the CCO’s ministry changed Alisa Kuppe’s life

“My life today is a direct reflection of the work that the CCO ministry had on me as a college student,” says Alisa Kuppe. “My decision to commit all of my life completely to God was never accomplished until I interacted with the staff of CCO. My work with middle and high school students in [...]

 

Getting to know CCO staff member Becky Snow

Becky Snow ministers to students at Waynesburg University in partnership with First Presbyterian Church of Waynesburg. Becky earned a Bachelor’s degree in engineering from Messiah College in 1998 and a Master’s in Christian formation and ministry from Wheaton College in 2006. Click here to find out why Becky thinks people should consider working for the [...]

 

Jeff Dugan: Taking his faith into his neighborhood

“The CCO has helped strengthen my faith to the point where I want to follow Jesus with everything I have,” says Jeff Dugan. “This is why I work at a church, work at a school, and coach all in the same neighborhood. All my resources go towards serving the youth and families in my neighborhood.” [...]

 

A Q & A with CCO staff member Dave Bindewald

Dave Bindewald first came to understand the fullness of the Gospel and the delight of a solid biblical worldview while he was an undergraduate student at Geneva College. Dave began serving students full time at Carnegie Mellon University in 2007, although he and his wife, Erin, have been with the CCO since 2001. Erin worked [...]

 

Mourning CCO alumnus, Rod Kirby

It is with great sadness that we share with you the news that our friend and former colleague, Rod Kirby [1998-2001], died on July 10. Rod came on staff with the CCO in 1998 to minister to athletes at the University of Pittsburgh. His memorial service will take place this coming Thursday in Monroeville, PA, [...]

 

How Sarah Grace Bennetch was shaped by the Jubilee conference

“Jubilee had a tremendous impact on my college years, and even now,” says Sarah Grace Bennetch. “The conference gave me new eyes, inspiration and hope and direction. It put into words why caring for the poor and those who suffer is central to our lifestyle as Christ-followers. It helped me to ask intelligent and Christ-centered [...]

 

Catching up with CCO staffer Sandie Starr Everhart

Sandie Starr Everhart reaches out to students at Edinboro University of Pennsylvania. Sandie has been ministering to college students with the CCO since graduating from Allegheny College in 1987, and before Edinboro, she has worked with students at Hiram College, Ohio Wesleyan University, Western Washington University, Carnegie Mellon University, and her alma mater, Allegheny College. [...]

 

The Surra family, or “How the CCO influenced two generations of students”

“I can appreciate the ministry of CCO more today than when I was in college,” says Dane Surra. “Today, I am the father of two college-aged kids. Nickolas attended Duquesne University and was actively involved in the leadership of Crossroads Christian Fellowship, the CCO ministry there. He is now a first-year student at the Temple [...]

 

Changing direction: Carolyn Clarke

“I came to college with a desire to get the education that I needed to be a medical doctor or a lawyer,” says Carolyn Clarke. “I was going to earn lots of money so that I could take care of myself and not be dependent on anyone. It was about what I could get out [...]

 

CCO Staff Spotlight: Gene Tibbs

Gene Tibbs primarily serves black students from around the world who come to study at the University of Pittsburgh. The mission at the center of his work is “Transforming black students and those of all ethnicities to transform the world for black people and all people.” Click here to find out Gene’s favorite things about [...]

 

How the CCO prepared Matt and Betsy Belgie for marriage, parenthood and life in the “real world”

Matt Belgie is grateful that he and his wife, Betsy, were both immersed in the CCO’s ministry during their dating years and for the foundation that it laid for the lives they are leading now. “We are continuously evaluating how we’re integrating our faith into all areas of our lives. It was just ingrained in [...]

 

A Q & A with CCO staff member Lizz Heimann

Lizz Heimann ministers to students at Robert Morris University in partnership with the Charis247 Faith Community of Coraopolis, Pennsylvania. Lizz was introduced to the CCO as a student at Point Park University in Pittsburgh. Through the fellowship, Bible studies and service opportunities, Lizz grew deeply in her faith. Click here to find out why she [...]

 

How the CCO helped Traci Warner find her calling

“When I was in college and even when I moved away from home, I had no desire to be involved in campus ministry,” says Traci Warner. “But it’s funny how God works. I am now the administrator for an organization on the Vanderbilt University campus called Medical Campus Outreach (MCO). We are a ministry for [...]

 

CCO Staff Spotlight: Rachel Foose

Rachel Foose is a 2005 graduate of Colorado Christian College, where she majored in psychology and minored in youth ministry. Rachel reaches out to college students at Penn State Altoona  through her position as a barista at the nearby Commonplace Coffeeshop. Click here to find out Rachel’s three favorite things about her job, her personal [...]

 

How the CCO prepared David Gonzalez for life after college

“I was a commuter student at Gannon University,” says David Gonzalez. “My involvement in the CCO’s ministry helped me to be connected to the college life and also other Christians of my age. It would have been difficult to be a good witness of Jesus without the support and example of fellow CCO students and [...]

 

Getting to know CCO staff member Bob Robinson

Bob Robinson serves students at Hiram College, Kent State University and Northeastern Ohio Universities College of Medicine and Pharmacy in partnership with Habitat for Humanity of Portage County. Click here to find out why he chooses to work for the CCO, who influenced him the most when he was a college student, and the best [...]

 

What Ele Anthony learned from the Jubilee conference

“Jubilee was extremely helpful in shaping my vision of what God’s mission might be for my life,” says Ele Anthony. “I am never quite sure what God wants me to be doing, but I know that no matter where I am, I can be doing His work. At Jubilee, I heard from a lot of [...]

 

Catching up with CCO staffer Brian Sheeler

Brian Sheeler is the campus worker and advisor of the Christ In Action Student Club on the campus of the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford. He also serves as Director of Youth Ministries at First United Methodist Church. Click here to read about Brian’s favorite things about his job, where he enjoys hanging out with [...]

 

Pete Ware crowned Mr. Unity at Cal U

Pete Ware, CCO staff member at California University of Pennsylvania, was crowned Mr. Unity at the Black Student Union’s annual formal dinner dance. The title of Mr. Unity is given to an outstanding male figure who consistently supports and promotes unity across Cal U’s campus and is an active participant of the Black Student Union [...]

 

Getting to know CCO staff member Bobbi Perkins

Bobbi Perkins graduated in 2003 from Appalachian State University in North Carolina with a degree in geography. She now works with University of Pittsburgh students through Bellefield Presbyterian Church with Cornerstone, an interdenominational ministry. Click here to find out why Bobbi thinks others should consider working for the CCO, where she enjoys hanging out with [...]

 

According to Penn State New Ken students, Dave McGeary’s the best

Dave McGeary, CCO staff member at Penn State New Kensington, received the Outstanding Student Organization Advisor of the Year Award. Dave established the student organization GIG (Group Investigating God) when he joined the CCO and has since been the advisor. Dave was nominated and selected for the award by student votes. Students clearly appreciate the [...]

 

CCO staff members contribute to OWU’s Presidential Award in community service

CCO partner, Ohio Wesleyan University (OWU) is one of three schools in the country being honored with a Presidential Award for Excellence in General Community Service. This is the highest federal recognition a college and university can receive for its commitment to service-learning and fostering civic engagement. The Office of Community Service Learning, which initiates [...]

 

• Newsroom
  • Overview
  • Press Releases
  • Press Kit
    • Download Pictures
  • Awards
  • Annual Report
  • Sign up for eNews
  • Story Archives