University News
Groundbreaking Leadership Program is a Success
Hope has launched a new innovative leadership training program called the School of Advanced Leadership Training (SALT). SALT is designed to work in conjuncture with local churches to develop effective servant leaders within the local congregation. Through this program, Hope partners with local churches to provide convenient, affordable, accredited online courses for emerging church leaders. Students may choose to take SALT courses for undergraduate or graduate credit, and they can be applied to degree programs
SALT uses online coursework with specialized instruction from top professors to strengthen the skills and knowledge of emerging church leaders. A SALT course typically includes audio/video lectures with PowerPoint, online discussions, group projects and other assignments, readings and other resources all based on a special website devoted to that course. Through this program Hope equips local church leaders to play a crucial role as on-site mentors, who guide students in making practical applications in the local context. Students may also apply the units toward a degree, or simply take them for personal development.
Shepherd of the Hills in Porter Ranch, California, was the first church to implement the new training program into their church. The program proved to be a great success, generating tremendous support from students and staff. Senior Pastor of Shepherd of the Hills, Dudley Rutherford, has embraced the new program and seen the effects it can produce.
"Since its inception, Hope International University has sought innovative ways to educate the next generation of Christian leaders,” said Rutherford. “The SALT program is immensely important in that not only does it train staff and members of the local church, but gives them a taste of what it is like to attend a Christian university at a graduate or undergraduate level.”
For more information on SALT visit Hope’s website (www.hiu.edu/salt) or send an email to salt@hiu.edu.