Robert “Bob” Charles Baptista of Carol Stream, Illinois, passed away on Oct. 9, 2015. Baptista served as Sterling College president from 1973-75.

“Baptista’s influence on Sterling College, although brief, has left a legacy here on campus. Although it is sad to hear of his passing, Baptista lived a life of Christian service that his family can be proud of and has influenced thousands of lives across the nation,” said Scott Rich, president.  

Sterling College is seeking comments from the public about the College in preparation for its periodic evaluation by its regional accrediting agency. The College will host a visit April 4-5, 2016, with a team representing the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association. Sterling College has been accredited by the Commission since 1957. The team will review the institution’s ongoing ability to meet the Commission’s Criteria for Accreditation. 

The public is invited to submit comments regarding the college:

Continuing a tradition of excellence and leadership training, The Ross and Fern Freeman Lecture Series for Servant Leadership will feature speaker Nancy Ortberg on Friday, Oct. 30, 2015, at 10 a.m. at Sterling College. The event, which is free and open to the public, will be held in Culbertson Auditorium in Spencer Hall. Those interested in attending the lecture should RSVP to Luke Cureton in the Office of Institutional Advancement at 620-278-4219 by Monday, Oct. 26.

Ryan “Pete” Manely has been named one of Kansas Independent College Association’s Faculty of Distinction for 2015. Manely, director of the Athletic Training Program and of graduate studies at Sterling College, will be recognized at a workshop and award presentation on Nov. 3, 2015, at the Meridian Conference Center in Newton, Kansas.

Sterling College Warriors will make their way back to their Alma Mater beginning Thursday, Oct. 22, to begin the 2015 homecoming festivities, many of which the community are invited to attend. That night the curtain in Culbertson Auditorium will open at 8 p.m. to begin the musical “9 to 5.” Registration, tickets and additional information for all Homecoming events can be found at sterling.edu/homecoming.