September 2011

Geneva College offers nearly 40 undergraduate majors. Among the more unique options is a combination of business or Christian ministries and aviation. These dual-degree programs afford students the opportunity to receive a bachelor′s degree in business or Christian ministries with a concentration in aviation from Geneva College along with an associate′s degree in professional piloting, air traffic control (terminal or enroute) or aerospace management from the Community College of Beaver County (CCBC). Geneva′s challenging and Christ-centered academic program is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, while CCBC offers one of the leading aviation training programs in the nation.

Ian Minnick, a Geneva senior, has a deeply rooted faith in Christ and an unwavering love for aviation. Given these two passions, Ian felt called to become a missionary pilot. In his quest, Ian initially considered attending an aviation school to become a commercial pilot. And then he visited Geneva College. His world opened up as he realized that he could pursue a dual degree in Christian ministries and aviation while also having the opportunity to serve on mission teams.

As an underclassman, Ian participated in mission trips to Jamaica. During his junior year, he had the honor of leading the team. Minnick feels that he has grown substantially from the trips he has taken to Jamaica in the past. "I have not only seen God do amazing things in my life, but also the lives of others while serving in Jamaica," he said. "One of the most beautiful parts about the trip to Jamaica is that we go down [and] hope to change lives, but in the process our own lives are changed, and it is a fascinating thing."

As a result of those mission trips, Ian feels that God has placed him in a unique position to fly missionaries to difficult areas of Third World countries. "I want to be able to help those in remote areas learn about the love of Christ, who otherwise would not be able to."

Ian has been encouraged and molded by his peers and Geneva faculty. "Coming to Geneva has helped me find my calling in life. Professors and students alike are very supportive of my unique major. I have made lifelong friends here, and the professors really push me to learn." Ian also enjoys the importance of community that is evident at Geneva. "Getting to share my faith with others inside and outside the classroom has been one of my favorite things about [Geneva]. Getting to live and interact with people who have the same beliefs helps you to grow, not only as a person, but as a Christian."

Ian is well on his way to accomplishing his goal as he has completed over half of the licenses and ratings he needs to become a missionary pilot. Ian knows that with God′s help, he can help change lives and help rebuild broken parts of the world.

You, too, can help the students of Geneva serve the Lord wherever they may be called. Contact us to learn how you can support students like Ian. If you know a young person who is looking for an academically challenging, biblically-based education, refer them to Geneva. Above all, please pray that God′s work will be accomplished through Geneva College and our students.