Biblical studies, English, mathematics, political science and reading are some of the areas adding faculty this fall at Fresno Pacific University. In addition, the Center for Degree Completion and the alumni program welcomed new administrators.
Vickie Bigler will teach elementary mathematics education. She received her B.A. from the University of California, Davis, and her M.A. from FPU and has taught in the Visalia Unified School District, Winters School District and Woodlake School District. At Visalia she was named district teacher of the year.
Jothany Blackwood will teach English composition and rhetorical studies. She earned a B.A. and M.A. at Tennessee State University and directed the writing program at Fisk University. Her honors include the Coca-Cola Award for Creative Writing.
Ken Martens Friesen will teach political science and history. He graduated with a B.A. from FPU and an M.A. and Ph.D. at American University. He and wife Fran served with Mennonite Central Committee in Vietnam, Lesotho and Washington, D.C.
Eleanor Hersey will teach English literature and critical theory. She received an M.A. from West Virginia University and is working on a Ph.D. from the University of Iowa. She served as an instructor at both West Virginia and Iowa and won the Whatley Award for best essay.
Kathryn Hitchcox is associate dean in the school of professional studies. She earned a B.A. from California Lutheran College and an M.A. and Ph.D. from Rice University. She has taught at Rice, California State University, Fresno, and National University.
Nicole Linder holds the newly created post of associate director of events and alumni programs in the Advancement Office. Among her responsibilities are to communicate with alumni, organize and assist volunteers, oversee special events such as Homecoming and the Alumni Phonathon and coordinate the church relations program. Before coming to FPU Linder served as a marketing communications specialist for the Fresno Economic Development Corporation, scheduling director for the Fresno Mayor's Office and marketing representative for Xerox Corporation/Digibopp Technologies. She earned a bachelor's degree from California State University, Fresno.
Martha Ritter will teach reading and literacy education. She graduated with a B.A. from Tufts University, an M.Ed. from the University of New Hampshire and is working on a Ph.D. from the University of New Hampshire. Teaching assignments have included the University of New Hampshire and Centro Technico Industrial, La Esuelita de San Sebastian and Villa de Amistad, all in Cochabama, Bolivia.
Jeanine Yoder will teach contemporary Christian ministries and intercultural studies. She received her M.Div. from Mennonite Brethren Biblical Seminary and B.A. from Brock University. She has taught at FPU, InterVarsity Christian Fellowship and Youth Mission International.