My Greenville College Story
Published: April 13, 2021
My GC story is somewhat of a "pass it on" example. I would like to share just a few highlights from my Greenville College experience.
I was a latchkey kid growing up in Zion, IL. I bounced back and forth between divorced parents and ultimately found myself completely on my own at age 16. I was a fairly good high school cross-country runner and would go to practice after school, work at my church after practice, and then begin homework after 10:00 p.m.
I became a Christian at an early age and was taught to believe that God had a path and a plan for my life. While at church camp in Door County, WI, I was approached by a teammate, Karl Sisson. (This camp is currently managed by GC Alumni Dale and Carol Stewart.) Karl invited me to his home. I had met Karl's dad, Grant, on occasion as he was an Usher at my church. Karl's mom, Barb, was a Sunday school teacher and was very active with Vacation Bible Clubs in the community. Upon my arrival to their home the first thing Grant said to me was "We don't want you to pay any room or board but rather to be part of our family. Someday when you can help someone else out that will be how you can pay us back."
During my junior year of high school I began to wonder if I could ever go to college. I didn't have a solid GPA at that time, and had minimal college prep classes under my belt. How would I ever finance my education? One day Grant asked me if I had considered going to Greenville College. I knew a number of high school classmates that were going to GC but I wondered if someone like me could ever get into a place like that. One weekend Grant drove me to the campus for a visit while my application was under review. We had a nice visit and everyone was very cordial. On the drive home Grant made a statement, "If you're looking for a school with large buildings and massive sports arenas, that's not Greenville, but if you're looking for a good Christian education where you'll have greater access to professors that are committed to you, Greenville is the place for you." Little did he know all I wanted to do was go to any college that would accept a kid with marginal grades.
Upon our return, Barb had a wonderful meal prepared and as we sat down and said grace she asked me something very simple, "Have you prayed about it?" About six weeks later I received a letter thanking me for considering Greenville College and that I had been accepted. I had no clue how I was going to finance this journey but there was a scholarship that the GC financial aid office brought to my attention. It didn't cover all the expenses, but it did cover about 50%.
Grant made another comment, "Anything of any worth requires hard work and effort." I worked and saved toward my objective. God was showing me the way, and the prayers Barb had prompted me to express were answered. I was soon inducted into the "Men of 4th Joy" club and began my studies at GC.
Later that year I went on a freshman field trip within my Bible and Culture class. We spent the night at a skid row mission with many people less fortunate than us. Many were there because of substance abuse situations, but I could relate to them as they struggled to find their next meal.
I also took a course called "Chemistry for the Citizen" and in that class I mixed acids and made an orange smelling after-shave that I gave to Grant's son-in-law. That stuff stained his face orange for a few days. I realized I wouldn't be a very good industrial chemist, but I did learn that so many products we use daily require chemical science. My wife, who is a pharmacist, pokes fun at my "Chemistry for the Citizen" days. Little did she know that one day her son would attend a school and take a course called "Chemistry for the Consumer."
What would Greenville College be without chapel every week? Wow! There were so many great moments of music, praise, and worship. There, we experienced the creativity of fellow students and guest speakers. Culturally, we exchanged ideas and thoughts. We reflected on God's word and mission. We shared tragic moments as we lost a few fellow classmates.
To those currently attending GC, I know there is a temptation to skip chapel because you're studying, working on something else, or just plain lazy. All I can say, from my perspective looking back, some of the best learning and spiritual development experiences came during chapel. Please don't let this opportunity pass you by.
Post-Greenville I have applied many of my GC experiences. What am I doing with the things God has entrusted to me? Every so often I will call Barb & Grant Sisson to let them know I "paid them back a little something today." Helping others who can't help themselves, or helping others to help themselves has been a path God has set before me. Had it not been for the love and the caring from God's people, Christ-like professors, and the community fellowship Greenville provided I can honestly say I don't know where I would be today. Thank you GC. You have made a difference in me making a difference for others.
- John Huber '81
