This fall, five new faculty members joined the Eastern Mennonite University and Eastern Mennonite Seminary communities. Representing four unique departments, these individuals bring a wide range of experience and expertise to their respective divisions. Each of these new members have jumped in headfirst, and students across campus have discovered their personalities through nearly half a semester of studying with them. We at the Weather Vane express our welcome to each of the new members of the faculty, and encourage students to continue to get to know them as the semester progresses.

Aundrea Smiley – Assistant Professor of Teacher Education

Aundrea Smiley is a former EMU graduate, and was a member of the first RJE certified Graduate cohort. She finished her PhD and joined EMU as an adjunct faculty member. She now serves as an assistant professor in the teacher education program. 

Aundrea has also done mission work in Costa Rica, which she describes as “one of my best life experiences to date.” Regarding her time at EMU so far, Aundra says it is “really a dream come true!”

John Pescatore – Associate Professor of Engineering

“John Francis Pescatore has joined the Engineering Department as an Associate Professor. The Boston, MA, native holds degrees from Northeastern University, University of Cincinnati and Tennessee Technological University and is a Registered Professional Engineer in the Commonwealth of Virginia and state of Ohio. He is an enthusiastic promoter of the engineering profession, and is excited about joining other faculty in the mission of educating the next generation of engineers. John comes to EMU with a background in both professional engineering and academia in the USA and UK.” John Pescatore’s bio, courtesy of Ryan Cornell, is also featured in an article by EMU Marketing.

Ned Parker – Assistant Professor of Preaching & Worship; Seminary Chaplain

Ned Parker holds a deep love of theological education, and when he saw that Eastern Mennonite Seminary had an open faculty position that combined teaching and chaplaincy, he quickly jumped at the opportunity.

Parker writes, “the commitment to learning and peace building is such an incredible combination. We are called to be in the world, but the world is often difficult to navigate. Every class helps equip students to orient themselves toward the work of justice.”

Something fascinating about Parker is that as a result of injuries he sustained from an accident in 2005, he has three plates, 28 screws and two pins holding his right arm together. His dog, Lucky, has roughly 15 pieces of shrapnel throughout his neck from a gunshot wound he sustained to the back of his head before he was adopted, leaving his head severely affected.

“I know what it’s like to be in the world with foreign objects embedded under my skin. Adopting Lucky was one of the very best decisions I’ve ever made,” Parker remarks.

Stephanie Powell – Assistant Professor of Hebrew Bible

Stephanie Powell has previously taught in the context of both undergraduate and seminary education, and is loving the “fresh perspectives and curiosity that undergraduates bring to the study of the Bible.” In addition to her love for undergraduate studies, Powell also finds great joy in accompanying seminary students throughout the process of their ministerial development.

Powell notes that “in a given week, I might be in conversation with students and colleagues on everything from interfaith relationships, Anabaptist history, ministry on the border to anti-racism work. I love to see all of the creative ways that our community is living out its mission.”

An interesting experience Powell has had was the chance to walk on water at the Sea of Galilee. For proof, swing by her office, room 137 in Seminary Hall. 

Rev. Dr. Tamika Jackson – Assistant Professor of Counseling

Rev. Dr. Tamika Jackson is a new professor in the Masters of Counseling program here at EMU. She received her PhD in Counselor Education from William and Mary, and is currently teaching Counseling Techniques, Supervision and Consultation, and Multicultural Counseling.

We’re very excited to see these new faces on campus, and for them to grow with us for years to come!