Evangel University and Convoy of Hope Develop Center for Compassion

Evangel University, Springfield, Missouri, has announced a new partnership with Springfield-based world relief organization Convoy of Hope to create a Center for Compassion.

The center will serve to expand the learning and service opportunities available to Evangel students. It will also develop training and for-credit learning opportunities for people involved in compassion ministries through churches and various global initiatives.

“There is a pressing need for graduates trained in all academic disciplines who have a heart for service,” said Dr. Carol Taylor, president of Evangel.

“In this new partnership with Convoy, the Center for Compassion will include an expanded internship program, curriculum plan, and online training programs for badges, certificates and academic programs,” she said.

The boards of Evangel University and Convoy of Hope authorized the creation of a proposal for this new, significant Convoy-Evangel partnership last fall. The program was approved at their respective board meetings in late March and early April, 2018.

The educational components of the Center for Compassion will find their home on the Evangel campus, with the pilot serving as a model for additional campuses in the future.

Donna Washburn, Ph.D., LCSW, a third-generation “missionary kid” and long-term Evangel educator, will be transitioning to lead this new endeavor, starting this summer. She will serve as academic chair of the Center for Compassion.

The new endeavor 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.

The agreement 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 will be explored over time.