Evangel University and Convoy of Hope Sign Collaborative Agreement 

Evangel University and Convoy of Hope have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) 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 going to be able to take students out of the classroom and give them practical experience,” states Hal Donaldson, an EU alum and a co-founder of Convoy of Hope, along with his brothers Steve and David. “Not just head knowledge, but hands-on opportunities to meet the needs of hurting people.”

Under the MOU, Evangel 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.

“It’s applying science to reach real needs,” says Dr. Jason Streubel, director of Agriculture for Convoy of Hope and associate professor of Biology at Evangel. “I can be out in the field in Haiti on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. I can come back to my environmental science class on Monday night and say, ‘Here’s my issue; let’s help solve it.’“

Streuble explains that students will be working with Convoy of Hope and interacting with farmers in applying science to increase crop production, improve water purity, initiate or improve irrigation practices, and to maintain or improve soil quality. Currently, students are taking on the challenge for Nicaragua, which is experiencing a drought, of how to optimally irrigate and provide nutrients for four basic crops. 

“Our joint desire is to train up the next generation of missionary applied scientists,” Streuble says. “There are four grand challenges that face the world — food and nutrient security, clean and safe water, energy sustainability, and environmental remediation. If we train up scientists to deal with those issues, it opens up doors for the gospel that are really incredible!”

Evangel University and PE News