During the 2018-2019 academic year, Sumpter received the Lucas-Hathaway Teaching Excellence Award for Introductory Subjects, primarily teaching BMS 106: Introduction to New Testament, BMS 307: Youth Ministry and BMS 308: Teaching the Bible.
Sumpter is also a frequent speaker at Christian camps and churches in the region.
Sumpter holds a B.A. in Religion from Ashland University, an M.Div. from Ashland Theological Seminary and an M.Ed. from Waynesburg University.
Tell me about your program and your vision for it.
The Biblical & Ministry Studies program educates, equips and trains students for Christian ministry opportunities and occupations in the world. From students interested in youth ministry or seminary preparation, media ministry or being a missionary, the BMS Program provides courses rooted in the Bible, church history, theology and practical ministry opportunities that will assist students in their ministry. Ultimately, our hope is that students will grow in Christ so that they can point others to Jesus, now and into the future.
What are some of your former students up to now?
Each member of our 2019 graduating class (11 students) found employment or was accepted into their first-choice seminary upon graduation. Kortney is serving as an Urban Missionary on the north side of Pittsburgh. Brett is employed as the youth pastor at his home church in Beaver County, PA. Steph is attending Asbury Theological Seminary. I could go on and on about our graduates. They are very special to me.
What do you think is a true differentiator for WU or your program?
Our faculty (full-time and part-time) are currently employed or have recently worked in the local church as pastors or ministry leaders. The blend of biblical study and practical ministry tools are modeled by our faculty. This has also allowed for our students to have easy access to practical ministry experiences in the community and region as soon as they step on campus!
Has this program or associated faculty received any awards or recognition?
Cristy Wise, Lecturer for Biblical and Ministry Studies and Communication, and I have won the annually given Lucas Hathaway Teaching Excellence Award. It was an honor for us to win it in back-to-back years. Personally, I had an article published in Group Magazine’s Annual Youth Ministry Magazine titled, “Commissioning Teenagers for Everyday Discipleship.” (September 2018)
Anything else you’d like to add?
I love the opportunity to journey with students at Waynesburg University! It truly is an honor. These students and my fellow employees are a gift that God has blessed me with. I pray for the wisdom to steward these gifts and the daily moments that I have with great care. Your prayers are appreciated!
What is the most interesting place that you have visited and why?
Philippi, Greece. I have special memories of reading Acts 16 (about the Apostle Paul baptizing Lydia) and seeing the waters where that took place. Upon entering Philippi, I was able to see a prison where Paul would have been captive. It was amazing to walk where the Word was written.
What is your favorite recipe to make?
I enjoy making the special Sumpter peanut butter and jelly every morning for my daughter’s school lunch.
Learn more
Students enrolled in the Department of Humanities take courses with faculty who have expertise in many varied fields. It is home to many of our programs that are part of the traditional liberal arts curriculum. The Department houses our psychology, history, and biblical ministry courses.
As a student in the Department of Humanities, you'll learn the major concepts, theoretical perspectives, empirical findings, and historical trends in your particular field of study.