Slate of Candidates for ACL Board of Directors

University Librarian, Corban University

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH:

Please provide a brief biographical sketch to include addressing the following 3 questions: a) How can your skills and experience serve the Association well? b) How does your Christian faith shape your perspective on leading well? c) How has ACL encouraged or equipped you as a librarian?

Can God be glorified through librarianship? The vision of ACL (the integration of faith, ministry, and academic librarianship) intertwines with the answer to this question. My education and many of my scholarly endeavors have aimed similarly, and I hope to be able to use my service on the board to strengthen ACL’s work toward understanding, encouraging, developing, and advocating for faith integration.

The crucifixion of Jesus Christ enables me to lead well because, as it was an incredibly humbling and substitutionary death, it grounds my humility, making me acknowledge humility’s central role in many facets of life, including leadership. Secondly, the resurrection, in which the crucifixion played a critical role, is foundational to the fundamental hope embedded in believers of Jesus Christ. Founding my humility and hope in the crucifixion and resurrection, respectively, is vital to leading well because these two components drive Christ-centered aspirations, which direct visionary leadership.

ACL has equipped me as a librarian by providing a venue for community, enabling me to connect with like-minded librarians. I have been privileged to have both a community and a community of scholars develop from these connections. Jesus works through community, and both communities within ACL have played crucial roles in developing my understanding of glorifying God through librarianship.

SOMETHING FUN ABOUT ME:

My daughter was born on my birthday: She was (and still is) the best birthday present ever.

Education:

• Master of Theology (Th.M.), Western Seminary, OR, 2022–Present
• Master Track Certificate in Instructional Design, University of Illinois, IL, 2020
• Doctor of Ministry, Strategic Leadership, Corban University, OR, 2020
• Master of Library Science, Emporia State University, KS, 2004
• Master of Theological Studies (M.T.S.), Trinity Western University, British Columbia, Canada, 2000
• Bachelor of Science, Multnomah University, OR, 1996

PROFESSIONAL POSITIONS:

• University Librarian, Corban University, 2018–Present
• Librarian, Corban University, 2015–2018
• Reference-Instruction Librarian, Corban University, 2005–2015
• Account Coordinator, Blackwell’s Book Services, 2002–2005

State, regional, and national professional organizations activities:

• Atla, Member, 2019–Present
  • Editor-in-Chief for Theological Librarianship, 2019–Present
  • Advisory Council for Open Press, 2019–Present
  • Advisory Council for E-Book Lending Program, 2020–2023
  • Conference Presenter: 2024, 2021, 2020, 2016
• Evangelical Theological Society, Member, 2010–Present
  • Northwest Meeting Conference Presenter, 2018
• Open Library of Humanities, Section Editor, Religious Studies, 2014–2020
• Communications in Information Literacy
  • Copy-Editor, 2023–Present
• CCCU
  • Council for Library Leadership, Chair, 2023–Present
  • Board Member, 2022–Present
• Statewide Database Licensing Advisory Committee
  • Chair, 2023–Present
  • Board Member, 2022–Present
• ILAGO conference Presenter, 2021
• Transparent Design in Oregon Libraries Conference Presenter, 2021
• Oregon Chapter of Association of College and Research Libraries
  • Member-at-Large, 2015–2017
  • Vice-President/President-Elect/President/Past-President, 2007–2010
• Evangelical Christian Publisher’s Association, Reviewer for Book Awards, 2013–2016
• HEDS Conference Presenter, 2015
• Texas A&M Assessment Conference Presenter, 2015
• TK20 Webinar Presenter, 2014
• Library User Experience Assessment Unconference, presenter, 2014
• Oregon Information Literacy Summit conference presenter, 2014, 2010
• Pacific Northwest Religious and Theological Library Association, President, 2012–2013
• Stayton Public Library Board, Member, 2010–2012, Vice-President, 2011–2012
• Association of College and Research Libraries, Instruction Section
  • Policy and Publications Review Committee, Member, 2009–2011
  • Information Literacy in the Disciplines Committee, Member, 2007–2009
• Oregon Library Association
  • OLA/WLA Joint Conference Committee, Co-Chair, 2012–2013
  • Conference Committee, Chair, 2010–2011
  • Conference Committee, Registration Chair, 2008–2009
  • Executive Board, ACRL-OR Representative, 2008–2009
  • Conference presenter, 2016, 2009
• Reference User and Services Association, Business Reference and Services Section
  • Gale Cengage Learning Student Travel Award Committee, Member 2009–2011
  • Education Committee, Member, 2007–2009

ACL Activities

• Member, 2005–Present
• Prayer Team, 2024–Present
• Past-Chair, Liberal Arts Section, 2023–2024
• Chair, Liberal Arts Section, 2021–2023
• Editor-in-Chief, The Christian Librarian, 2013–2022
• Peer-Reviewer, The Christian Librarian, 2011–2013
• Book Award Committee, 2011–2016
• ACL Mentor Program (as both a Mentor and Mentee): various times
• Conference Workshop Presenter, 2024, 2023, 2021, 2020, 2016, 2014, 2013, 2011

OCLS Online Reference Librarian, Indiana Wesleyan University and Adjunct Librarian, Cleary University

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH: 

Please provide a brief biographical sketch to include addressing the following 3 questions:  a) How can your skills and experience serve the Association well? b) How does your Christian faith shape your perspective on leading well? c) How has ACL encouraged or equipped you as a librarian?

The Association of Christian Librarians is an organization that has been integral to me as I’ve grown and matured in my role as a librarian. I’ve forged lifelong friendships and professional relationships; there are opportunities for collaboration and camaraderie around every corner. ACL encourages each of us to be the very best we can be; beyond most professional organizations, however, we are also encouraged spiritually.

Truly, this organization has a long-standing history of working toward excellence. As I have volunteered with ACL, I have seen first-hand how faithfully other leaders have shown Christlikeness through their service. Jesus is our exemplar of servant leadership, and it is my desire to become more like Him with each opportunity I’m granted. As I have been gifted with increased levels of supervisory and leadership positions in both my workplace and professional memberships, I have become more compassionate and empathetic as I listen to the needs of others and strive to lead through service.

As I continue to live out my belief in the concept of a lifelong learner, I fully intend to continue growing in both service and leadership while using the God-given abilities He has grown within me thus far. I am grateful for the volunteers in this organization who model servant leadership so well; I would be honored work alongside other ACL leaders to continue the traditions of faithful service and excellence in scholarship.

SOMETHING FUN ABOUT ME:

Once upon a time (through the 4-H) program, I showed my cat and competed in showmanship competitions…but I now only own dogs.

Education:

• Master of Library Science, Indiana University, IN, 2012
• Bachelor of Science, Indiana Wesleyan University, IN, 2002

Professional Positions:

• Online Reference Librarian, Indiana Wesleyan University, IN, 2023–Present
• Adjunct Librarian, Cleary University, MI, 2022–Present
• Librarian, Online and Distance Learning, Spring Arbor University, MI, 2012–2023
• Associate Professor of Library Science, Spring Arbor University, MI, 2018–2023
• Assistant Professor of Library Science, Spring Arbor University, MI, 2012–2018

State, regional, and national professional organizations activities:

• Christianity & Communications Studies Network, Member, 2017–Present
• Michigan Academic Library Association, Member, 2014–2023, 2024
  • Conference Planning Committee Member, 2017–2023
  • Conference Scholarship Subcommittee, Chair, 2018–2023
  • Distance and Online Learning Sub-group, Chair, 2015–2023
  • Annual Conference, Co-Host of Panel Discussion, 2021
  • Annual Conference, Poster Presentation, 2018, 2017
• Research Help Now [RHN] Academic Chat Cooperative
  • Co-administrator, 2019–Present
  • Best Chat Transcript Awards Committee
    • Chair, 2017–Present
    • Transcript Reviewer, 2014–2016
    • Academic Chat Cooperative, Platform Selection Committee Member, 2016–2017
• American Library Association Member, 2012–Jan 2023
• LOEX [formerly Library Orientation Exchange] Conference Planning Committee Member, 2022, 2020
• Michigan Library Association Member, 2012–2013
• Distance Teaching and Learning [DT&L] Conference, ePoster Presentations, 2021, 2019, 2018

ACL Activities:

• Member, 2012–Present
• Liberal Arts Section, Vice Chair, 2020–2022
• Liberal Arts Section, Member-at-large, 2017–2020
• Conference, Unconference Roundtable Host, 2016
• Virtual Conference Committee Member, 2015–2016
• Conference, Co-presenter, 2013

Associate Librarian, Johnson University

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH:

 Please provide a brief biographical sketch to include addressing the following 3 questions:  a) How can your skills and experience serve the Association well? b) How does your Christian faith shape your perspective on leading well? c) How has ACL encouraged or equipped you as a librarian?

Having spent more than thirteen years in an academic library, I have gained the competence and confidence to lead, drive change, and manage resources, all of which could greatly enhance ACL. Additionally, my leadership experiences within various library committees and programs, including ACL’s Mentoring Program, have sharpened my ability to collaborate effectively and facilitate meaningful discussions, skills crucial for supporting the Association.

Rooted in my Christian beliefs, my leadership approach centers on principles such as servant leadership, humility, and compassion. These values drive me to cultivate a nurturing and cohesive atmosphere within the Association, where members are valued, their voices heard, and decisions made with honesty and empathy.

ACL has played a significant role in advancing my professional development through its conferences, workshops, and networking opportunities. By intertwining the love of Christ with the practice of librarianship, the organization has deepened my understanding of the ethical and moral aspects of my profession, challenging me to uphold standards of excellence and integrity in my role as a librarian, and showing others the love of Christ.

SOMETHING FUN ABOUT ME:

I love to play board games, go to Disney World, and mow my yard.

EDUCATION:

• Specialist in Information, Florida State University, FL, to be completed in Summer 2024
• Master of Science in Information, Florida State University, FL, 2016
• Bachelor of Science, Johnson University Florida, FL, 2014

Professional Positions:

• Associate Librarian, Johnson University Florida, FL, 2017–Present
• Reference & Access Services Librarian, Johnson University Florida, FL, 2016–2017
• Library Support Services Assistant, Johnson University Florida, FL, 2010–2016

State, regional, and national professional organizations activities:

• Association for Biblical Higher Education, Team Evaluator: 2016–Present
• Florida Library Association, Member, 2014–Present
  • Conference Workshop Presenter, 2021
• American Library Association, 2014–Present

ACL Activities:

• Member, 2014–Present
• ACL Mentoring Program, Coordinator, 2022–Present
• Christian Periodical Index, Indexer, 2017–Present
• Conference Poster Presenter, 2023, 2022, 2018
• ACL Mentoring Program, Assistant Coordinator, 2019–2021
• TCL Book Reviewer

Research and Instruction Librarian, Sam Houston State University

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH:

Please provide a brief biographical sketch to include addressing the following 3 questions:  a) How can your skills and experience serve the Association well? b) How does your Christian faith shape your perspective on leading well? c) How has ACL encouraged or equipped you as a librarian?

As a librarian of 8 years and having worked with and without budgets, resources, and manpower, I understand the struggles many in our Association face with their own libraries. Furthermore, as the ACL volunteer coordinator, I also understand the dedication and ability the Lord has blessed our members with, and I see the potential so many have in growing this Association. Our members have a heart to serve and support, and they have a need to be served and supported all within the love of Jesus Christ. That is what I hope to contribute and cultivate further.

Christ led by teaching all who would listen, by being an example as a servant and devout son of the Father and by being the sacrifice we needed for salvation. I strive to be a person that can be patient and teach (sometimes multiple times) concepts or programs, to be a servant who listens and learns while fulfilling a need, and by remembering that we have all fallen short and must extend grace as we work together. Finally, my style of leadership is one that likes to hear the suggestions of others and work collaboratively while making final decisions when necessary.

When I started as a librarian, I was under great stress with many life changes taking place. My job has since changed and I have gone through different hardships and joys with family, friends, and coworkers. Throughout this, ACL members have encouraged, uplifted, prayed for, taught, and befriended me with compassion and understanding and I have always known this Christian community of librarians to be a place of refuge, revitalization, and knowledge.

SOMETHING FUN ABOUT ME:

Something fun to know about me is that I have a twin brother who is 11 minutes older than me (and he never lets me forget it!)

Education:

• Master of Library Science, Texas Woman’s University, TX, 2016
• Master of Science, Counseling Psychology, Southwestern Assemblies of God University, TX, 2013
• Bachelor of Science, Psychology, Sam Houston State University, TX, 2009

Professional Positions:

• Reference Librarian with Delta State University, 2016–2020
• Research and Instruction Librarian with Sam Houston State University, 2020–Present

State, regional, and national professional organizations activities:

• Texas Library Association, Member, 2021–Present
• Texas State Historical Association (TSHA), Member, 2021–Present
• Texas Conference on Digital Libraries
  • Panel Presenter, 2024
  • Co-Presenter, 2022
• Texas Digital Library Geographic Information Systems Interest Group (TDL GISIG), Member
  • Subcommittees, Member, and Co-Chair
  • Pre-GIS Day, Online Workshop Presenter, 2023
• Oklahoma ACRL Community of Oklahoma Instruction Librarians (OK-ACRL COIL)
  • UnCOILED Conference, Co-Presenter, 2021
• Mississippi Library Association, Member, 2017, 2019–2020

ACL Activities:

• Member, 2017–Present
• Volunteer Coordinator, 2019–Present
• Christian Periodical Index, Indexer, 2023–Present
• Conference Poster Presenter, 2022, 2018
• Conference Workshop Presenter, 2019
• The Christian Librarian, Book Reviewer, 2022, 2018

Instruction and E-Resources Librarian, Danville Community College

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH:

Please provide a brief biographical sketch to include addressing the following 3 questions: a) How can your skills and experience serve the Association well? b) How does your Christian faith shape your perspective on leading well? c) How has ACL encouraged or equipped you as a librarian?

I have a wealth of skills and experience with various technologies and library related systems that would assist the Association. I have a wide array of experience in leadership roles at various levels from campus committees, to statewide associations and work groups, to task forces at the campus, state, and local levels. My various committee roles are wide, including many in ACL. I have extensive experience in networking and building relationships with colleagues and will continue to do so across the Association, building bridges and bringing people together. In addition, I have experience in presenting and instruction.

My Christian faith influences me through maintaining a posture of being a servant to all. My aim is to model Philippians 2:3-4: “Do nothing from selfishness or conceit, but in humility count others better than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.”

ACL has encouraged me through networking and communicating with like-minded colleagues from around the country and across different types of libraries. I have been encouraged greatly by other members professionally to increase my skills or endeavors. I have been equipped by the Association to be faithful to both the core values of Christian service and the core values of high-quality librarianship by learning at every Conference from wise mentors/leaders and fellow members.

SOMETHING FUN ABOUT ME:

In library school, we were one of the first campuses able to access the very first internet online catalog through Telnet.

Education:

• Certificate in Library Services in Distance Education, University of Maryland, University College, MD, 2005
• Master of Library Science, College of Library and Information Services, University of Maryland, MD, 1990
• Bachelor of Arts, History/Computer Science, Asbury College, KY, 1988

Professional Positions:

• Instruction & E-Resources Librarian, Barksdale Library, Danville Community College, Danville, VA, 2018–Present
• Head of Research and Distance Services, Kinlaw Library, Asbury University, Wilmore, KY, 2009–2018
• Head of Public Services, Kinlaw Library, Asbury University, Wilmore, KY, 1996–2009
• Information Specialist, Langsdale Library, University of Baltimore, 1420 Maryland Ave., Baltimore, MD, 1995–1996
• Assistant Reference Librarian / Network Administrator, D. Leonard Corgan Library, King’s College, W. Jackson St., Wilkes-Barre, PA, 1991–1995
• Assistant Unit Head, University of MD, McKeldin Library, Preservation/Bindery Unit, College Park, MD, 1990
• Student Assistant, University of MD, College of Library and Information Services Library, College Park, MD, 1989–1990
• Library Clerk, Charles County Community College at St. Mary’s, Great Mills Road, Great Mills, MD, 1988–1989

State, regional, and national professional organizations activities:

• Virginia eLET committee, 2018–Present
• Kentucky Library Association, 1999–2018
• Evergreen Conference Organization Committee, 2017
• Association of Independent Kentucky Colleges and Universities (AIKCU)
  • Committee on Technology, 2012–2017
  • Tech Conference panel presenter, 2014
• AMIGOS online Conference Presenter, 2015
• ACSI Conference Presentation, 2002
• Computers in Libraries Conference Presenter, 1995

ACL Activities:

• Member, 1998–Present
• Repository Task Team, 2024
• ACL Award for Innovation Selection Team, 2021-2024
• Nominations Team, 2019-2021
• Christian Periodical Index Task Team, 2020
• Liberal Arts Section Vice-Chair, 2014-2020
• Director-at-Large, 2016–2019
• Conference Host Librarian, 2018
• Liberal Arts Section Member-at-Large, 2008-2011
• Workshop Presenter, 2023, 2021, 2019, 2017, 2016, 2008, 2003