The year got off to an interesting start. Waupun (WCI) went under lockdown on January 5th due to rising case numbers of COVID-19. However, it has been truly amazing to see how the hard work of those involved with the Trinity campus at WCI has enabled the students to press on with the program despite the circumstances. The students have been able to use their new clearbook computers for homework throughout the month of January. They were released in small groups on January 21st to enter the classroom and upload their work to the Trinity International University server for grading. At that same time, they were able to download video lectures from their professors in order to remain up to date with classwork. Fortunately, the “all clear” was given for students to return to the classroom beginning on January 24th. In all this, we’re continually reminded to never again take for granted the simple privilege of classroom gatherings!
Our Associate Dean at WCI, Craig Long, was recently able to introduce himself to many of the Wisconsin Department of Corrections (DOC) Education Directors via a Zoom meeting on January 19th. The purpose of the meeting was to fully inform the attendees of the Trinity program at WCI, and to share details of the application process and schedule for the newest cohort. Craig said that there were many good questions and a sincere interest in hearing about the success of the program. Prior to this meeting, DOC Secretary Carr ordered copies be made of a previously filmed informational video featuring former students sharing about the program. Secretary Carr issued a directive that it be shown at all institutions throughout the state. We are prayerful that this video will increase awareness and interest in the program throughout the DOC system.
We’ve recently entered a new season of the program’s history as the first graduates have begun transferring out of WCI and into various institutions throughout the state. Our Dean of Students, Robin Knoll, was given approval by the DOC to personally visit these graduates up to six times per year. Currently, Robin is working on a plan to visit these institutions on a rotating schedule once per week. To fill his absence at WCI, we have recently hired a program assistant who will be responsible for study hall supervision along with many other administrative needs in the school. Our prayer is that the time Robin spends with the graduates will serve as an encouragement to them as they adopt to life after the program.
Thank you for your continued prayer, partnership and generosity.
Specific prayer requests:
That the population remains healthy now at WCI after we got done with another round of COVID
That the seniors finish strong as they approach their last classes before graduation
Thank God for our new Program Assistant, Sarah Shuringa
Pray for God to go before us as we have conversations about a woman's program