Local University Teams Up With International Relief Organization to Advance Scientific Research
SPRINGFIELD — Evangel and Convoy of Hope signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Thursday, Jan. 22, 2015, to increase and improve access to applied science expertise and education in countries where Convoy of Hope serves.
“This is really a significant moment for the university on a number of levels,” said Evangel President Carol Taylor. “It’s an incredible opportunity for students to really live out the mission of the university. We can’t imagine a better partner than Convoy.”
The MOU is consistent with EU’s mission in educating and equipping students to impact society globally. The agreement is also consistent with Convoy of Hope’s mission to provide help and hope to those who are impoverished, hungry and hurting.
“We’re excited about giving our science students this new opportunity,” says Dr. Mike McCorcle, chair of the SciTech Department. “This will allow us to apply science to solve the world’s grand challenges.”
Under the MOU, EU and Convoy of Hope will work in the creation of applied science training, certification, education, outreach and development programs in countries where Convoy of Hope is actively engaged, including the Philippines, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Kenya, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Honduras, Guatemala, South Africa and the United States.
“When we engage the brightest students of science at the local university, it provides Convoy of Hope staff and our stakeholders access to a generation ready to change the world,” says Dr. Jason Streubel, director of agriculture for Convoy of Hope.
The agreement also involves student exchanges between EU and Convoy of Hope projects for the purpose of education, training, community service, international development service and experience.
Additional opportunities for further collaboration may be explored over time.
Convoy has roots with Evangel
Convoy of Hope was co-founded by three brothers, all of whom are Evangel alumni — Hal Donaldson, 1980; Steve Donaldson, 1985; and David Donaldson, 1989.
“This is a homecoming for us,” said Hal Donaldson, president. “Convoy is what it is today in large part because of the investment Evangel University made in our lives.”
About Convoy of Hope
Convoy of Hope, a faith based organization founded in 1994, has a driving passion to feed the world. With a long history as an early responder in times of natural disasters, Convoy of Hope has been a Four Star Charity as recognized by Charity Navigator for 11 consecutive years. In the last 20 years, Convoy of Hope has served more than 70 million people. For more information please visit http://www.convoyofhope.org.