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Dr. William Licht: A Life of Steadfast Service

Dr. Will Licht has served ����ԭ�� for 31 years in various roles as history and education professor, Chair of Humanities, Dean of the School of Education, and the last ten years as Vice President for Academic Affairs.

In June 2024, Dr. Licht retired from full-time teaching and administration. Although his leadership will be missed at the administrative level, students will still benefit from his insights and expertise as continues to teach part-time on campus and online.

Teaching history is Dr. Licht’s passion, and he refers to his time in the classroom as “my most favorite time of the week.” Students in Dr. Licht’s classes are challenged to view the events of history from a Biblical perspective, and to think critically about the facts. They quickly discover that he cares deeply about each one in his class. His heart for education and mentorship is rooted in his belief that “the Lord has called me to invest myself in the lives of others and in doing so, to make a difference for generations to come – Psalm 78.”

Dr. Licht’s mentorship extends beyond the classroom: colleagues know him to be a consummate professional, and express being edified and encouraged by his wisdom and thoughtfulness: “He worked very hard to help us become better teachers. This was supplemented by classroom observations, in-house workshops, readings, and presentations to help us grow as classroom teachers—further supporting the heartbeat of a ����ԭ�� education: its classroom teaching.”

Former student and current colleague, Katie Schmoeckel wrote, “Dr. Licht is a master teacher. I was blessed to have him as my social studies teacher and mentor. His depth of knowledge is enhanced by his humility, compassion, and love for the Lord. It has been a privilege to learn from him and to teach alongside him at ����ԭ��. He continues to inspire me to grow as a person, a teacher, and a disciple of Christ.”

History professor, Dr. Mike Zwolanek, expressed, “While I’m glad that Will is able to retire, I will miss his presence on campus, where he has served as a counselor, resource, and friend. During my first year at the college, without waiting for me to ask, he graciously gave me copies of all his course materials and told me to use them freely, along with pointers about how he taught the class. He continued to help me over the years, even as his leadership responsibilities grew. I am thankful he will remain as a colleague, and hope for added historical chats, now that his plate will be less full.”

“I have been blessed beyond measure to serve so closely with Dr. Licht,” states CEO Dr. Matt Davis. “Together we witnessed the Lord preserve, protect, and advance the ministry of ����ԭ��. I have learned so much from observing his testimony and work ethic and benefitted greatly from his wise counsel and friendship. Behind the scenes, he faced the deep waters of a multi-year battle with cancer with poise, grace, and courage. Through good days and bad, his determination to continue to serve steadfastly through it all serves as proof-positive of God’s goodness and grace that empower each one of us to do what He calls us to do. Only eternity will reveal the magnitude of Dr. Licht’s contributions to advancing the Kingdom of God.”

Thank you, Dr. Licht, for making a difference at ����ԭ��!

Read more about Dr. Licht here.