Stanley Abie (BA ’19) never planned to study abroad.  As he neared high school graduation in India, he expected to attend college in his own country and find a good job, near his parents, who have served as missionaries in India for three decades. 

 

“God had a different plan,” said Stanley. “He opened the door for me to go to college in California and become part of the HIU community.”

 

Growing up watching his parents serve under extremely challenging conditions, Stanley was inspired to serve God and His people. He enrolled at HIU with plans to become a servant leader and then return to India, and is grateful for the opportunity to serve among some of the poorest and most vulnerable of India’s population.

 

Stanley graduated from HIU in December, 2019, and returned to his homeland, where he was happy to be near family again. Shortly after his return, he was hired by Central India Christian Mission (CICM), where he serves under the leadership of Dr. Ajai Lall, co-founder of the organization, and his wife, Dr. Indu Lall.

 

“There are millions of people who know more about Bollywood stars than Jesus, about politicians than Jesus, and about other celebrities than Jesus,” said Stanley. “I am glad to be part of the CICM mission, bridging gaps and reaching out to people, sharing the Good News of God’s love. I thank God for the opportunity to be part of this amazing initiative and make a difference in the lives of the people for years to come.”

 

HIU’s mission to prepare servant leaders for service around the world was confirmation for Stanley that God was calling him to attend school in California, and it led him to a four-year experience that changed his life. He firmly believes that HIU taught him what it means to be an exceptional servant leader, and how much of a difference one person can make in his or her community. 

 

Stanley lived on campus and enjoyed many opportunities to connect with his peers, as well as other international students. He particularly appreciated serving with Judy Kim in the International Students Program. Stanley enjoyed being a peer mentor for students who came from South Korea and considered it a privilege to be their first friend in the USA, helping them get settled and build lifelong friendships. It was a way of giving back, having been supported by student and campus leaders as he made his own adjustments to SoCal culture. 

 

His favorite instructor was Andrew Paine, who motivated Stanley to always be his best, and helped with the challenges of accounting coursework.

 

“Professor Paine was always willing to make time during his office hours. He was so involved with students that we could text him at 8:00pm about an accounting problem and he would reply instantly and offer assistance,” said Stanley.  “Many other HIU faculty and staff are just like Andrew, always available to help students succeed, not only academically, but also socially and spiritually.”

 

Stanley treasures the lifelong friendships he formed in his four years on campus. Starbucks runs, movie outings, late night bowling, beach sunrises and sunsets are all HIU experiences he enjoyed, but an American road trip tops the list.

 

“My personal favorite memory is when I travelled with four other buddies to Washington state over a Thanksgiving break,” Stanley recalled. “It was truly one of the best weeks of my life, and I am so grateful for such amazing friendships.” 

 

“HIU is a Christ-centered community that was there for me all the time,” he reflected.  “This all became possible because of the amazing generosity of donors and churches who invest in the preparation and training of nextgeneration leaders.