The Purposeful UNIVERSITY
October 2-4, 2025
Join us in Eugene, Ore., at Bushnell University for The Purposeful University, a NetVUE regional gathering focused on institutional vocation and purpose in the evolving landscape of U.S. higher education. This conference will explore the unique calling of liberal arts institutions and the key elements that shape vocational reflection at the institutional level. How does a university discern, embody, and live out its mission? How can it effectively articulate and integrate its vocation across the academy? Together, we will engage in meaningful dialogue on these questions and more.
Exploring Institutional Vocation TOGETHER
The discourse on vocation often identifies two realms: the inner world of the individual (consisting of characteristics involved in the exploration, discovery, and embodiment of one’s authentic self), and the outer contextual realm. This outer realm is the space into which we are called, within which we live out our vocations, and where we seek to understand and confront the systemic realities, which may either promote or undermine the common good. The relationship between the inner world of the individual and the outer realm of the community is fleshed out in the specific stories that people tell, which help them craft and communicate meaning.
Building on David Cunningham’s assertion that “Colleges have Callings, Too,” this regional gathering examines how institutions excavate, understand, grapple with, and embody their institutional callings. It will explore what Darby Ray refers to as both the “self-work” of internal vocational reflection and the “world-work” of community engagement. It will also explore how an institution chooses to articulate and live out its vocation in practice.
Cost
- NetVUE member day rate (no lodging) – $50
- NetVUE member overnight (includes up to two nights) – $100
- Non-NetVUE member day rate (no lodging) – $100
- Non-NetVUE member overnight (two nights lodging) – $500
KEYNOTE SPEAKERS
Dr. David Cunningham
Dr. David Cunningham is executive director of NetVUE, based at Aquinas College, where he also serves as professor of theology. He previously directed the NetVUE Scholarly Resources Project, editing three Oxford University Press volumes and contributing to each. His chapter “Colleges Have Callings, Too” is a key reference on institutional vocation. He has authored five books and edited two others. He has held faculty roles at Hope College, Seabury-Western, and the University of St. Thomas, and holds degrees from Northwestern, Cambridge, and Duke. His fellowships include the Humboldt (Freiburg) and Richardson (Durham).
Dr. Matthew Hartley
Dr. Matthew Hartley is Professor of Education and Board of Advisors Chair of Education at the University of Pennsylvania’s Graduate School of Education. He is an internationally recognized expert on academic governance, leadership, and reform in higher education. He has consulted with the World Bank, the Council of Europe, and worked with universities in North America, North Africa and South Asia providing guidance in areas of governance and how institutions define their educational purposes. He serves on the board of trustees at Widener University in the United States and Nazarbayev University in Kazakhstan. From 2015 to 2022 he served as associate dean for academic affairs of Penn GSE, and from 2022 to 2024 he served as deputy dean of the school.
KEYNOTE SPEAKERS
Dr. David Cunningham
Dr. David Cunningham is executive director of NetVUE, based at Aquinas College, where he also serves as professor of theology. He previously directed the NetVUE Scholarly Resources Project, editing three Oxford University Press volumes and contributing to each. His chapter “Colleges Have Callings, Too” is a key reference on institutional vocation. He has authored five books and edited two others. He has held faculty roles at Hope College, Seabury-Western, and the University of St. Thomas, and holds degrees from Northwestern, Cambridge, and Duke. His fellowships include the Humboldt (Freiburg) and Richardson (Durham).
Dr. Matthew Hartley
Dr. Matthew Hartley is Professor of Education and Board of Advisors Chair of Education at the University of Pennsylvania’s Graduate School of Education. He is an internationally recognized expert on academic governance, leadership, and reform in higher education. He has consulted with the World Bank, the Council of Europe, and worked with universities in North America, North Africa and South Asia providing guidance in areas of governance and how institutions define their educational purposes. He serves on the board of trustees at Widener University in the United States and Nazarbayev University in Kazakhstan. From 2015 to 2022 he served as associate dean for academic affairs of Penn GSE, and from 2022 to 2024 he served as deputy dean of the school.
EVENT SPEAKERS
Dr. Bryan Dik
Dr. Bryan Dik is a vocational psychologist and professor of psychology at Colorado State University. He is also co-creator of the award–winning PathwayU career assessment platform. Bryan was co-founder and Chief Science Officer of jobZology, the company that developed PathwayU, until its acquisition by PeopleGrove in 2023. Bryan’s scholarly work focuses on meaning and purpose in the workplace, calling and vocation in career development, and the intersection of faith and work. He has delivered keynote lectures on four continents and has published four books (including Redeeming Work and Make Your Job a Calling). He is a Fellow of the American Psychological Association and American Scientific Affiliation, and is recipient of the John Holland Award for Outstanding Achievement in Career or Personality Research (APA Div. 17) and the Applied Psychology of Religion and Spirituality Award (APA Div. 36). He lives with his wife Amy and their four sons in Fort Collins, Colorado, USA.
Gabe Piechowicz
Gabe Piechowicz is the founder and executive director of Everyone Village. He began the work of Everyone Village in the summer of 2021 as he pioneered creative and effective solutions for the City of Eugene’s response to the worsening homelessness crisis at that time. Out of this effort he built a robust network of partnerships including government agencies, local universities and colleges, faith-based organizations and private businesses that he continues to grow and leverage towards the community’s response to homelessness. Prior to founding Everyone Village Gabe had a fifteen-year career as a professional logger. Gabe graduated from Bushnell University with a bachelor’s degree in Pastoral Ministry in 2019.
Dr. Rebekah Pinchback
Dr. Rebekah Pinchback serves as the Dean of the School of Business and Technology at Rochester Christian University in Michigan. She is deeply committed to helping students view business not merely as a career path, but as a means of reflecting God’s heart in the world. In both teaching and leadership, Rebekah integrates biblical theology with business practice. For her, business is a way of participating in God’s work—bringing order, creating value, and serving others. She is known for her focus on operational efficiency, best practices, and data-informed decision-making. She has consulted with private institutions seeking to work more effectively, and her research explores meaningful work and employee engagement as key drivers of organizational health and commitment.
Dr. Kurt Schackmuth
Dr. Kurt Schackmuth is Chief Mission Officer and Vice President for Student Life at Lewis University, where he leads institutional efforts in student development, mission integration, and Lasallian education. He holds a Ph.D. in Higher Education Administration from Loyola University Chicago, an MBA from Lewis University, and a B.A. in History from Lewis as well. A lifelong Lasallian educator, Dr. Schackmuth has served at Lewis for over 27 years in a wide range of roles, including Vice President for Mission and Associate Provost for Student Success, and Director of Mission and First Year Experience. His leadership reflects a deep commitment to student flourishing, faith-based values, and holistic education.
Joseph Washburn
Joseph Washburn serves on the operations and administration team at Everyone Village, where he helps foster a flourishing environment for both staff and Villagers. A U.S. Army veteran, Joseph served 13 years in Special Forces, finishing his career as a Sergeant First Class. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Bushnell University, where he first learned about Everyone Village. His diverse experience—as a Special Forces engineer, in-home care nurse, and mental health coach—informs his work in community support. Joseph lives in Eugene with his wife and four children and enjoys trail running, camping, and reading in his free time.
EVENT SPEAKERS
Dr. Bryan Dik
Dr. Bryan Dik is a vocational psychologist and professor of psychology at Colorado State University. He is also co-creator of the award–winning PathwayU career assessment platform. Bryan was co-founder and Chief Science Officer of jobZology, the company that developed PathwayU, until its acquisition by PeopleGrove in 2023. Bryan’s scholarly work focuses on meaning and purpose in the workplace, calling and vocation in career development, and the intersection of faith and work. He has delivered keynote lectures on four continents and has published four books (including Redeeming Work and Make Your Job a Calling). He is a Fellow of the American Psychological Association and American Scientific Affiliation, and is recipient of the John Holland Award for Outstanding Achievement in Career or Personality Research (APA Div. 17) and the Applied Psychology of Religion and Spirituality Award (APA Div. 36). He lives with his wife Amy and their four sons in Fort Collins, Colorado, USA.
Gabe Piechowicz
Gabe Piechowicz is the founder and executive director of Everyone Village. He began the work of Everyone Village in the summer of 2021 as he pioneered creative and effective solutions for the City of Eugene’s response to the worsening homelessness crisis at that time. Out of this effort he built a robust network of partnerships including government agencies, local universities and colleges, faith-based organizations and private businesses that he continues to grow and leverage towards the community’s response to homelessness. Prior to founding Everyone Village Gabe had a fifteen-year career as a professional logger. Gabe graduated from Bushnell University with a bachelor’s degree in Pastoral Ministry in 2019.
Dr. Rebekah Pinchback
Dr. Rebekah Pinchback serves as the Dean of the School of Business and Technology at Rochester Christian University in Michigan. She is deeply committed to helping students view business not merely as a career path, but as a means of reflecting God’s heart in the world. In both teaching and leadership, Rebekah integrates biblical theology with business practice. For her, business is a way of participating in God’s work—bringing order, creating value, and serving others. She is known for her focus on operational efficiency, best practices, and data-informed decision-making. She has consulted with private institutions seeking to work more effectively, and her research explores meaningful work and employee engagement as key drivers of organizational health and commitment.
Dr. Kurt Schackmuth
Dr. Kurt Shackmuth is Chief Mission Officer and Vice President for Student Life at Lewis University, where he leads institutional efforts in student development, mission integration, and Lasallian education. He holds a Ph.D. in Higher Education Administration from Loyola University Chicago, an MBA from Lewis University, and a B.A. in History from Lewis as well. A lifelong Lasallian educator, Dr. Shackmuth has served at Lewis for over 27 years in a wide range of roles, including Vice President for Mission and Associate Provost for Student Success, and Director of Mission and First Year Experience. His leadership reflects a deep commitment to student flourishing, faith-based values, and holistic education.
Joseph Washburn
Joseph Washburn serves on the operations and administration team at Everyone Village, where he helps foster a flourishing environment for both staff and Villagers. A U.S. Army veteran, Joseph served 13 years in Special Forces, finishing his career as a Sergeant First Class. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Bushnell University, where he first learned about Everyone Village. His diverse experience—as a Special Forces engineer, in-home care nurse, and mental health coach—informs his work in community support. Joseph lives in Eugene with his wife and four children and enjoys trail running, camping, and reading in his free time.
BUSHNELL SPEAKERS
Dr. Stephen Andes
Dr. Stephen Andes is Professor of History at Bushnell University, specializing in Latin American history, global studies, and the history of Christianity. He holds a D.Phil. from Oxford and an M.A. from Portland State University. Before joining Bushnell, he taught for over a decade at Louisiana State University. Dr. Andes is the author of several books, including Zorro’s Shadow and The Mysterious Sofia, and his interests also include comics, animation studies, and creative writing. A passionate educator and father of three, he’s on a mission to make history Bushnell’s most popular major—even if he always loses at Super Mario Party.
Rev. Troy Dean
Rev. Troy Dean, M.A., serves as Campus Pastor and Assistant Professor of Christian Ministry at Bushnell University. He provides leadership for chapel, spiritual development, worship, and pastoral care, while also guiding student leaders and supporting employee faith formation. With a master’s from Hope International University and a B.S. from Cal Poly Pomona, Troy brings deep ministry experience and a passion for spiritual formation in the university setting. He collaborates with community leaders to enrich campus ministry and foster a Christ-centered environment. His pastoral presence and strategic vision help cultivate a vibrant, spiritually grounded campus culture at Bushnell.
Angela Doty
Angela Doty, M.A., serves as Dean of Institutional & Academic Effectiveness at Bushnell University, where she leads efforts in research, assessment, accreditation, and institutional effectiveness. A two-time Bushnell alumna and current Ph.D. student at Azusa Pacific University, Angela supports data-driven decision-making across all levels of the University. She collaborates with academic and administrative units to enhance academic planning, improve student learning outcomes, and ensure ongoing accreditation compliance. As Bushnell’s Accreditation Liaison Officer, she plays a key role in sustaining institutional quality and excellence. Her leadership reflects a deep commitment to continuous improvement and student success.
Michael Fuller
Michael Fuller, M.S., serves as Vice President for Enrollment and Special Assistant to the President for Strategic Planning at Bushnell University. He leads the Enrollment Division—including Admission, Advising, and Marketing—and supports university-wide strategic initiatives. With over 30 years in Christ-centered higher education, Michael’s experience spans enrollment management, student development, athletics, and institutional planning. He has played a key role in achieving record enrollment growth and guiding the university’s name change. Michael holds degrees from Pacific Lutheran University (B.A.) and California Lutheran University (M.S.). Outside of work, he enjoys mentoring emerging leaders and serves as an elder in his church.
Dr. Agam Iheanyi-Igwe
Dr. Agam Iheanyi-Igwe is the director of Bushnell University’s Center for Calling and Community and associate dean of the school of Bible, Theology, and Ministry. He is a NetVUE faculty fellow and has directed multiple NetVUE grant initiatives, including a “Saga” grant, and most recently, a program development grant that funded Bushnell’s Vocation Institute to equip staff and faculty to engage students in meaningful theological reflection on vocation and calling. He is the co-editor of Wisdom, Faith, and Service: Reframing the Bushnell University Saga (2023).
Dr. Reed Mueller
Dr. Reed Mueller serves as Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of the Faculty at Bushnell University. He holds a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Brigham Young University and completed a medical psychology residency at OHSU, where he served as Chief Resident. He previously chaired the psychology department at Concordia University Portland and taught at Northwestern College and Bushnell. Dr. Mueller also co-led Pacific Research & Evaluation and served as a pastor for over a decade. A graduate of Hope International University, he is committed to academic excellence and student success. He and his wife, Erin, have two college-aged children.
Whitney Shoun
Whitney Shoun, M.S., serves as Career Development Coordinator at Bushnell University, where she leads career services and the undergraduate internship program. She provides individualized coaching to help students explore career paths, identify strengths, and build confidence in their professional development. Whitney also facilitates workshops and events focused on resumes, cover letters, and interview skills. With a master’s degree from Arkansas Tech University, she brings a strong background in student support and program coordination. She actively builds partnerships with local businesses and organizations to expand internship and employment opportunities, helping students successfully bridge their academic experience with future careers.
Dr. Catherine Nani Skaggs
Dr. Catherine Nani Skaggs is Professor of Psychology and Program Lead at Bushnell University, where she has taught since 2009. She holds a Ph.D. and B.S. in psychology from George Mason University, specializing in developmental and physiological psychology. Her research experience includes work with the NIH, U.S. Army Research Institute, and Oregon Social Learning Center. She serves as chair of the Institutional Review Board and faculty advisor for Pi Gamma Mu. She is a NetVUE faculty fellow and has directed a NetVUE “Vocation Across the Academy” grant. An award-winning educator, Dr. Skaggs integrates psychological science with faith, helping students apply insights to everyday life with compassion toward self and others.
Dr. Joseph D. Womack
Dr. Joseph D. Womack is the 10th president of Bushnell University, serving since 2010. Under his leadership, Bushnell has expanded academic programs, increased enrollment by 45%, completed a major rebranding, and raised over $42 million for campus development and mission advancement. A two-time graduate of Azusa Pacific University, he also holds degrees from Texas Christian University and Bushnell. He has held leadership roles in higher education and serves on national and regional boards. A committed leader in Christian higher education, Dr. Womack is passionate about equipping students through academic excellence, spiritual formation, and Christ-centered community.
BUSHNELL SPEAKERS
Dr. Steven Andes
Dr. Stephen Andes is Professor of History at Bushnell University, specializing in Latin American history, global studies, and the history of Christianity. He holds a D.Phil. from Oxford and an M.A. from Portland State University. Before joining Bushnell, he taught for over a decade at Louisiana State University. Dr. Andes is the author of several books, including Zorro’s Shadow and The Mysterious Sofia, and his interests also include comics, animation studies, and creative writing. A passionate educator and father of three, he’s on a mission to make history Bushnell’s most popular major—even if he always loses at Super Mario Party.
Rev. Troy Dean
Rev. Troy Dean, M.A., serves as Campus Pastor and Assistant Professor of Christian Ministry at Bushnell University. He provides leadership for chapel, spiritual development, worship, and pastoral care, while also guiding student leaders and supporting employee faith formation. With a master’s from Hope International University and a B.S. from Cal Poly Pomona, Troy brings deep ministry experience and a passion for spiritual formation in the university setting. He collaborates with community leaders to enrich campus ministry and foster a Christ-centered environment. His pastoral presence and strategic vision help cultivate a vibrant, spiritually grounded campus culture at Bushnell.
Angela Doty
Angela Doty, M.A., serves as Dean of Institutional & Academic Effectiveness at Bushnell University, where she leads efforts in research, assessment, accreditation, and institutional effectiveness. A two-time Bushnell alumna and current Ph.D. student at Azusa Pacific University, Angela supports data-driven decision-making across all levels of the University. She collaborates with academic and administrative units to enhance academic planning, improve student learning outcomes, and ensure ongoing accreditation compliance. As Bushnell’s Accreditation Liaison Officer, she plays a key role in sustaining institutional quality and excellence. Her leadership reflects a deep commitment to continuous improvement and student success.
Michael Fuller
Michael Fuller, M.S., serves as Vice President for Enrollment and Special Assistant to the President for Strategic Planning at Bushnell University. He leads the Enrollment Division—including Admission, Advising, and Marketing—and supports university-wide strategic initiatives. With over 30 years in Christ-centered higher education, Michael’s experience spans enrollment management, student development, athletics, and institutional planning. He has played a key role in achieving record enrollment growth and guiding the university’s name change. Michael holds degrees from Pacific Lutheran University (B.A.) and California Lutheran University (M.S.). Outside of work, he enjoys mentoring emerging leaders and serves as an elder in his church.
Dr. Agam Iheanyi-Igwe
Dr. Agam Iheanyi-Igwe is the director of Bushnell University’s Center for Calling and Community and associate dean of the school of Bible, Theology, and Ministry. He is a NetVUE faculty fellow and has directed multiple NetVUE grant initiatives, including a “Saga” grant, and most recently, a program development grant that funded Bushnell’s Vocation Institute to equip staff and faculty to engage students in meaningful theological reflection on vocation and calling. He is the co-editor of Wisdom, Faith, and Service: Reframing the Bushnell University Saga (2023).
Dr. Reed Mueller
Dr. Reed Mueller serves as Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of the Faculty at Bushnell University. He holds a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Brigham Young University and completed a medical psychology residency at OHSU, where he served as Chief Resident. He previously chaired the psychology department at Concordia University Portland and taught at Northwestern College and Bushnell. Dr. Mueller also co-led Pacific Research & Evaluation and served as a pastor for over a decade. A graduate of Hope International University, he is committed to academic excellence and student success. He and his wife, Erin, have two college-aged children.
Whitney Shoun
Whitney Shoun, M.S., serves as Career Development Coordinator at Bushnell University, where she leads career services and the undergraduate internship program. She provides individualized coaching to help students explore career paths, identify strengths, and build confidence in their professional development. Whitney also facilitates workshops and events focused on resumes, cover letters, and interview skills. With a master’s degree from Arkansas Tech University, she brings a strong background in student support and program coordination. She actively builds partnerships with local businesses and organizations to expand internship and employment opportunities, helping students successfully bridge their academic experience with future careers.
Dr. Catherine Nani Skaggs
Dr. Catherine Nani Skaggs is Professor of Psychology and Program Lead at Bushnell University, where she has taught since 2009. She holds a Ph.D. and B.S. in psychology from George Mason University, specializing in developmental and physiological psychology. Her research experience includes work with the NIH, U.S. Army Research Institute, and Oregon Social Learning Center. She serves as chair of the Institutional Review Board and faculty advisor for Pi Gamma Mu. She is a NetVUE faculty fellow and has directed a NetVUE “Vocation Across the Academy” grant. An award-winning educator, Dr. Skaggs integrates psychological science with faith, helping students apply insights to everyday life with compassion toward self and others.
Dr. Joseph D. Womack
Dr. Joseph D. Womack is the 10th president of Bushnell University, serving since 2010. Under his leadership, Bushnell has expanded academic programs, increased enrollment by 45%, completed a major rebranding, and raised over $42 million for campus development and mission advancement. A two-time graduate of Azusa Pacific University, he also holds degrees from Texas Christian University and Bushnell. He has held leadership roles in higher education and serves on national and regional boards. A committed leader in Christian higher education, Dr. Womack is passionate about equipping students through academic excellence, spiritual formation, and Christ-centered community.
Event SCHEDULE
Thursday, October 2, 2025
3:00 – 5:30: Arrival and Registration Check-In
5:30 – 6:00: Opening Reception
6:00 – 8:00: Dinner and Welcome
“The Importance of Vocational Reflection for Colleges and Universities in the Present Landscape“
Keynote Speaker: David Cunningham, Executive Director, Network for Vocation in Undergraduate Education
David will explore how the framework of vocation and purpose can be applied at the institutional level. He’ll explain why this approach is particularly vital in the current landscape and compare it with alternative models.
Friday, October 3, 2025
8:00 – 9:15: Check in for Friday Arrivals
8:45 – 9:15: Transportation to Bushnell University
9:30 – 10:30: The Calling and Community of the University
Joseph Womack, Bushnell University President; Angela Doty, Dean of Academic & Institutional Effectiveness, Bushnell University; Michael Fuller, VP of Enrollment, Bushnell Univeristy
Join this panel of administrators as they discuss Bushnell University’s journey through institutional vocational reflection. The panel will discuss Bushnell’s Saga Project, the Presidential initiative on creating Becoming Beloved Community, and how this has played out in institutional interactions with visitors during regional accreditation visits.
10:30 -11:15: Networking Break
11:15 – 12:00: Concurrent Roundtable Discussions
The roundtable discussions will take place concurrently within the same space. Each table will have a designated host to facilitate conversation, and participants will have the opportunity to rotate through two or three different tables during the 45-minute session.
“Using Retreats for Vocational Exploration“
Dr. Nani Skaggs, Professor of Psychology, Bushnell University
“Vocational Exploration through Community Engagement”
Rev. Troy Dean, Campus Pastor & Assistant Professor of Christian Ministry, Bushnell University
“Vocational Development of “First Year” Faculty”
Dr. Reed Mueller, VP for Academic Affairs & Dean of the Faculty, Bushnell University
“The Purposeful Graduate Model”
Angela Doty, Dean of Institutional & Academic Effectiveness, Bushnell University
12:00 – 2:30: Lunch and Break
2:30 – 3:15: Using Strengths to Facilitate Vocational Discernment in the Student Experience
Bryan Dik, Professor of Psychology, Colorado State University; Whitney Shoun, Career Development Coordinator, Bushnell University
3:15 – 3:45 – Networking Break
3:45 – 4:30: Breakout Sessions
“Seeding Vocation Across the Academy”
Dr. Agam Iheanyi-Igwe, Associate Dean of Bible, Theology, & Ministry and Professor of Bible, Theology, & Ministry, Bushnell University; Dr. Nani Skaggs, Professor of Psychology, Bushnell University
“Excavating the Culture of a University”
Dr. Stephen Andes, Professor of History, Bushnell University
4:30 – 4:45: Break
4:45 – 5:30: The Narrative of the Institutional SAGA
Dr. Kurt Schackmuth, VP for Student Life and Chief Mission Officer, Lewis University; Dr. Rebekah Pinchback, Dean of the School of Business and Technology, Rochester Christian University
5:35: Dinner
Saturday, October 4, 2025
8:45 – 9:15: Transportation to Bushnell University
9:30-10:30: Institutional Vocation for the Common Good
Jerel Skeith, Executive Director, Paid in Full Oregon; Gabe Piechowicz, Village Lead, Everyone Village; Joseph Washburn, Operations and Administrative Lead, Everyone Village
10:30—11:00 Break
11:00 – 11:45: Institutional Purpose and Courage
Keynote Speaker: Dr. Matthew Hartley, Professor of Education and Board of Advisors Chair of Education, University of Pennsylvania, Graduate School of Education
11:45-12:00: Final Thoughts
12:00: Boxed Lunch and Departure
12:30: Shuttles to the airport
Have QUESTIONS?
Email: aiheanyiigwe@bushnell.edu
Phone: 541-684-7314
This event is made possible by the Network for Vocation in Undergraduate Education (NetVUE). NetVUE is administered by the Council of Independent Colleges with generous support from Lilly Endowment Inc.