tag:blogs.targetx.com,2009:/pbu/GailBenchener//415 2009-11-12T02:22:04Z Movable Type 3.34 tag:blogs.targetx.com,2009:/pbu/GailBenchener//415.11336 2009-11-12T01:57:28Z 2009-11-12T02:22:04Z

Martin committed insurance fraud but did not receive a jail sentence until he did not show up for court. The judge decided to hold him accountable and then sentenced him to 10 months in jail. The college graduate and former...

Gail Benchener targetx Martin committed insurance fraud but did not receive a jail sentence until he did not show up for court. The judge decided to hold him accountable and then sentenced him to 10 months in jail. The college graduate and former football star thought his life was over. He was banned from the insurance and finance field for life. Liberty Ministries has helped him pick up the pieces and learn that consequences remain, but the Lord -- with some practical training in job preparation skills by PBU-SIFE students-- provided him hope. SIFE students assisted ex-felons like Martin living in a halfway house sponsored by Liberty Ministries learn about reentering the job market. Over the past three Wednesdays, volunteers assisted with resumes and interviewing. Today, the men completing the course received certificates and were all smiles, excited about their newly-designed resumes and "Tell me about yourself" answers in which they addressed their conviction honestly and focused on how they changed. The men, in an intensive discipleship program and employed at the Liberty Thrift Stores, have focused on establishing a firm foundation of faith, ethics and integrity. PBU-SIFE students provided the practical skills needed for reentering the job market. Walgreens' Jim Banks, a business professional connected with PBU-SIFE, assisted and was a model for our students with his commitment and expertise. The men of Liberty were awed. The connection with the ministry came from PBU alumnus Kevin Jones. SIFE students worked with energy and heart 1-1 with each man as they grew in confidence. And we won't soon forget the men we served: George smiled for the first time today; Troy said, "I have been practicing all week to get ready for this;" Bob remarked at the end, "You have been nothing but a blessing." Julie Schultz, our student leader concluded, "You have blessed us with the privilege of working with you." tag:blogs.targetx.com,2009:/pbu/GailBenchener//415.10988 2009-10-06T17:00:12Z 2009-10-06T17:11:39Z

You might not think of PBU as a place where students train to enter sports-related careers, but this is exactly what is happening with many of our students interested in this field. At a time when enthusiasm for sports is...

Gail Benchener targetx Jessica Ogden (senior): Wilkes-Barre Yankees summer internship (2009) and potential job opportunity when she graduates. Currently completing an internship with the Philadelphia Flyers charitible foundation. Derek Overby (senior): Internships with the Camden Riversharks baseball club (2008), Ironpigs (Phillies AAA team, 2009) and now interviewing with the Philadelphia Flyers foundation based on the outstanding experience the Flyers have had with Jessica. Job opportunity available for him upon graduation with the Ironpigs. Liz Steiple (graduated Dec 2008): Internship with the Camden Riversharks; currently employed with the Boston Red Socks Jeremy Van Etten (graduated several years ago); internship with the Flyers; employed with the Camden Riversharks baseball club in sales; new member of the PBU-SIFE Business Advisory Board; exhibitor at the 2009 PBU Career Fair. ]]> tag:blogs.targetx.com,2009:/pbu/GailBenchener//415.10900 2009-09-28T18:39:42Z 2009-09-28T18:55:42Z

I brought in a bag of unpopped popcorn and asked my communication class to enjoy it. One student said, "But it's not ready -- it's not popped." That student was exactly right. It takes some planning, just the right timing...

Gail Benchener targetx I brought in a bag of unpopped popcorn and asked my communication class to enjoy it. One student said, "But it's not ready -- it's not popped." That student was exactly right. It takes some planning, just the right timing with some heat -- and then you have it -- a product all can enjoy. It is like that with our testimonies. Do we have the willingness to put our potential story through a process so it can be effective and benefit those who listen? Students in my communications class shared their prepared testimonies in class. We learned how one prayed in a janitor's closet for the Lord to come into his life and another lived a life of street crime until the depravity of it all became too much for him to bear. Others shared how they grew up in a Christian home, but also grew complacent until they realized their faith had to be their own, not something they could "inherit." Students talked about how God ministered to them in illness, in broken families, and with dynamic youth leaders who helped them hear the truth of God's word. Everyone had a story to tell, and sharing it with preparation and purpose enriched our lives. tag:blogs.targetx.com,2009:/pbu/GailBenchener//415.10719 2009-09-03T12:10:38Z 2009-09-03T12:17:32Z

The excellent work and reputation of two PBU students in the School of Business and Leadership results in an unexpected referral and job placement in a totally different industry for another. Here’s the story as an encouragement to all of...

Gail Benchener targetx The excellent work and reputation of two PBU students in the School of Business and Leadership results in an unexpected referral and job placement in a totally different industry for another. Here’s the story as an encouragement to all of you who work hard and represent the university so well in the workplace: Seniors Julie Schultz (as an intern) and Alex Arseneau (as an employee) worked in Warrington this summer for Will Thomson’s State Farm Agency. They were referred from a contact at last year’s PBU Career Fair, a district manager who oversees several State Farm agencies and exhibited. When I visited Julie this summer at her internship, Will raved about her work and commented many times on the work ethic, integrity, positive attitude, professionalism and “good values” of both students. He commented to me that he was so impressed with these students and their willingness to serve customers and his agency that he was also going to refer PBU and our program to his wife who worked for the Philadelphia Flyers (hockey team) charitable wives and players’ foundation. Last week I received information via Julie from Will’s wife with job descriptions about two internship possibilities at this charitable foundation and she encouraged PBU students to apply, although they are not easy internships to get. I told student Jessica Ogden about the internships because she wants to build her network in a sports-related career. She finished her 499 internship this summer with the Yankees but was excited to know another opportunity was available. She interviewed with Human Resources at the Flyers and then the director of the foundation and they offered her one of the positions. When she shared her challenges with her full academic schedule, they indicated they liked her so much they would be flexible. She will be working at all the home games and promoting their community service foundation. So the work and reputation of two students at one job leads to a referral to another job in a different industry with different employers. By the way, Julie and Alex have been offered an opportunity for a full-time job after graduation with State Farm . tag:blogs.targetx.com,2009:/pbu/GailBenchener//415.10646 2009-08-20T16:05:38Z 2009-08-20T16:23:21Z

We are making final preparations today for our back-to-school SIFE Cabinet retreat this weekend on campus and with dinner at my home on Saturday. Our theme is Survive and Thrive and we have some surprises in store from camouflage bags...

Gail Benchener targetx Survive and Thrive and we have some surprises in store from camouflage bags and flip-flops to survivor games that will focus on building consensus and leadership as we review this year's goals. I am excited to have student leaders committed to preparation and am reminded of a PBU intern supervisor who emphasized to my student at my visit with him this summer that "failure to plan is planning to fail." We are energized to make an impact this year in the local community. Now, to the details! This afternoon I speak to parents on "Parent from Afar" during Weekend of Welcome. What happens when you send your child far away from home? I know as I sent two away myself to different universities. When one left, I sobbed. When the second left, I said "Whew." They both have now graduated, are gainfully employed in their "dream careers" and wonderful men, but one took all the energy I could muster. At PBU, each student brings a level of energy, commitment, enthusiasm for learning and willingness to engage in university life. I am committed to help them grow in all of these this year, even when some days I finish with a wipe of my brow and a "whew." ]]> tag:blogs.targetx.com,2009:/pbu/GailBenchener//415.10596 2009-08-06T01:28:24Z 2009-08-06T01:37:10Z

Rachel Park, our new SIFE President, worked diligently all year with her committee to participate with Campbell's and SIFE USA and the national Let's Can Hunger campaign. We just learned PBU was selected as an award-winner for our hunger relief...

Gail Benchener targetx Rachel Park, our new SIFE President, worked diligently all year with her committee to participate with Campbell's and SIFE USA and the national Let's Can Hunger campaign. We just learned PBU was selected as an award-winner for our hunger relief campaign and business plan going forward next year. Besides collecting canned goods to donate to the local Penndel Food Bank, PBU-SIFE plans to move forward educating low income community members develop job preparation skills to help lessen the dependence on food banks. Our fall event, Can-o-Treating on Halloween provides the opportunity for students to go door-to-door, collect food and educate about the problem of hunger in our own county. Campbell's awarded funds to help the team support these efforts, a real affirmation of our work all year and an encouragement to go forward. tag:blogs.targetx.com,2009:/pbu/GailBenchener//415.10547 2009-07-20T02:37:31Z 2009-07-20T02:55:07Z

As I visit interns this summer in our business program, I ask all my intern supervisors what advice I can bring back to the classroom about the workplace. Here is what they are saying this summer: "Work ethic is critical....

Gail Benchener targetx As I visit interns this summer in our business program, I ask all my intern supervisors what advice I can bring back to the classroom about the workplace. Here is what they are saying this summer: "Work ethic is critical. Plan to work long hours and be willing to work at any task you are given. Respect and kindness go a long way when serving customers." Enterprise "We plan to fail because we fail to follow up. You need to follow through on every task or your work comes to nothing." Bimbo Bakeries (formerly Weston Foods) "The attitude of many young people is poor. Everybody has college and work experience, but you can distinguish yourself with your communication skills and your attitude.You are going to put in a lot longer than 8 hours on the job in this economy. Show initiative and always look to volunteer for tasks no one else wants to do. You will be next in line for a promotion. People will remember you." Bimbo Bakeries "Don't think you have to go to a big organization for a great experience. Smaller companies and non-profits can provide you with more diverse experience than you can even imagine." Mission Incorporated (non-profit) "Bring examples of your work to your interview. If I see a portfolio of successful university projects and good writing, you are likely to get the job even if you don't have a lot of experience yet." Circa Healthcare "Be open, flexible and willing to learn. Work ethic is key!" Campbell's ]]> tag:blogs.targetx.com,2009:/pbu/GailBenchener//415.10450 2009-06-17T17:59:23Z 2009-06-17T19:14:37Z

Writing a business plan for a custom builder, setting up a radio station in Alaska for SEND, marketing for a Yankees farm team, graphic designing for a producer of Christian literature, serving customers at an insurance agency, understanding corporate culture...

Gail Benchener targetx Writing a business plan for a custom builder, setting up a radio station in Alaska for SEND, marketing for a Yankees farm team, graphic designing for a producer of Christian literature, serving customers at an insurance agency, understanding corporate culture at Campbell's and the retail environment at WalMart and Acme-- 32 PBU interns are busy at work this summer. One of the best aspects of the dual degree program in Bible and Business at PBU is the internship program. Students work for a semester (or summer) in a paid or unpaid position at a business or nonprofit agency and learn what it is like in the 9-5 workplace. "Your work ethic is your testimony," stated a Christian owner of an insurance agency supervising one of our interns. "Listen, talk less, and realize you are here to learn," said another at the New Jersey State Police. "Dress like a professional. When an intern from another university wore flip flops and shorts the first day on the job,I was wondering if they had any training at all" said the head of a mission organization. PBU students in the business program are prepared. They begin their intern search at the Career Fair on campus in November, then hone their job search skills and business etiquette at the SIFE-sponsored job preparation seminar, R.I.D.E. (Resume, Interview, Dress and Etiquette on-campus seminar). They learn that the best employees have the "you view" -- "What can I do for you on the job as my employer. I am here to serve." That means working hard, taking direction, and learning with an open mind. And wearing closed-toe shoes. tag:blogs.targetx.com,2009:/pbu/GailBenchener//415.10313 2009-05-13T14:18:56Z 2009-05-13T14:22:22Z

PBU-SIFE competed against two national champions in round one of the SIFE USA National Competition -- the toughest competition we have ever faced. Despite a near-perfect presentation by our team and an excellent question and answer period, we did not...

Philadelphia Biblical University PBU-SIFE competed against two national champions in round one of the SIFE USA National Competition -- the toughest competition we have ever faced. Despite a near-perfect presentation by our team and an excellent question and answer period, we did not place at the competition. Drury University, a former national champion, will advance to the "sweet 16" tomorrow. The University of Arizona, last year's champion, was also eliminated. PBU-SIFE is in the news! Representatives of our team were chosen to represent the Philadelphia region to the press last week and as a result, Clark Hoober and Sarah Penn were interviewed for television and the Philadelphia Inquirer Monday. Sunday night, Clark and I were interviewed for the radio and radio spots were heard today on NPR - National Public Radio - and KYW 1060AM today featuring that interview. Governor Ed Rendell also mentioned PBU specifically along with Elizabethtown College and our service projects in his speech to the convention of 3,000. Clark and Rachel Park met with the Governor for a photo opportunity to represent SIFE USA after his presentation. I am very proud of our team -- their performance, attitude and focus on our mission. We have had wonderful interaction with other SIFE teams and business executives who have affirmed our work. tag:blogs.targetx.com,2009:/pbu/GailBenchener//415.9920 2009-04-09T20:01:20Z 2009-04-09T20:13:52Z

What happens when you are at a small biblical university and participate with excellence in a community service organization based on using business models to make a difference? You end up on a national stage! PBU-SIFE, selected as a Regional...

Gail Benchener targetx When someone has been given much, much will be required in return.]]> tag:blogs.targetx.com,2009:/pbu/GailBenchener//415.9394 2009-03-05T03:08:07Z 2009-03-05T03:17:42Z

PBU-SIFE students are engaged in an energy audit on campus and encouraging students to save energy with a dorm competition focused on being good stewards of our energy resources. Good news on reducing the waste stream: Recycling was instituted...

Gail Benchener targetx PBU-SIFE students are engaged in an energy audit on campus and encouraging students to save energy with a dorm competition focused on being good stewards of our energy resources. Good news on reducing the waste stream: Recycling was instituted in October with a joint effort between Campus Services and PBU-SIFE. The result is 4.1 tons per month of recycling reported in January. As of March 1, the number has increased to 4.3 tons! Trash collection at the university has decreased from 5 times a week to three times a week. Great work, staff and students! tag:blogs.targetx.com,2009:/pbu/GailBenchener//415.9274 2009-02-25T01:28:49Z 2009-02-25T01:44:18Z

In Business Communication class, we completed a discussion of ethics and acted out a simple scenario. I challenged the students to decide if I would be more upset if someone stole a penny or $20 bill from my desk. The...

Gail Benchener targetx In Business Communication class, we completed a discussion of ethics and acted out a simple scenario. I challenged the students to decide if I would be more upset if someone stole a penny or $20 bill from my desk. The answer was almost universal -- the $20 bill because it had more value. No. I would be upset with both situations equally. They both involve stealing. Recently I attended a symposium at Rider University on white collar crime, highlighting some of the recent criminal acts of businesspersons whose activities have been discovered in the recent economic crisis. First $10,000, then $100,000, then $1,000,000.00. Maybe it all started with a penny. tag:blogs.targetx.com,2009:/pbu/GailBenchener//415.9014 2009-02-09T03:01:53Z 2009-02-09T03:18:11Z

After a weekend in D.C. visiting my son and watching my favorite Georgetown Hoyas basketball team go down in defeat, previewing my work week by reading dozens of e-mails left by my students over the weekend can be daunting. I...

Gail Benchener targetx After a weekend in D.C. visiting my son and watching my favorite Georgetown Hoyas basketball team go down in defeat, previewing my work week by reading dozens of e-mails left by my students over the weekend can be daunting. I filed a final Topic Competition report on financial literacy for SIFE late this evening and was feeling a bit weary after a full weekend with yet more work to accomplish, only to get another e-mail message. The SIFE Presentation Team was also laboring away tonight on their presentation script for the Regional Competition. Their diligence and perseverance encourage me. tag:blogs.targetx.com,2009:/pbu/GailBenchener//415.8938 2009-02-04T16:07:16Z 2009-02-25T01:28:35Z

Tenacity and perseverance develop in college. Like it or not, university life includes a lot of hard work. I recently read that Dyson, a successful entrepreneur, identified his "inability to give up" as what helped him power through his disappointments...

Gail Benchener targetx Tenacity and perseverance develop in college. Like it or not, university life includes a lot of hard work. I recently read that Dyson, a successful entrepreneur, identified his "inability to give up" as what helped him power through his disappointments and failures. Since the beginning of the semester, the SIFE leadership is immersed in developing their annual report, implementing grant opportunities, filing numerous written documents reporting their project results, working in their ministries, completing coursework, and maintaining relationships. Many work to pay for college expenses. They are on sports teams, participate in intramurals, exercise and have fun. They are students, servant leaders, spiritual mentors, job seekers, athletes and friends. They are contributors. I admire the people they are becoming. tag:blogs.targetx.com,2009:/pbu/GailBenchener//415.8597 2009-01-15T01:47:35Z 2009-01-15T02:25:17Z

The students are not back to class yet, but the faculty is hard at work preparing syllabi, preparing class notes, reviewing budgets, evaluating documents and filing reports. It is difficult to be motivated without enthusiastic students to serve, but it...

Gail Benchener targetx The students are not back to class yet, but the faculty is hard at work preparing syllabi, preparing class notes, reviewing budgets, evaluating documents and filing reports. It is difficult to be motivated without enthusiastic students to serve, but it is necessary work. I spent several quiet productive hours in my office today, but it was still not the kind of day I would choose. I am a teacher and advisor. But then an alumnus dropped by. An "A" student with lots of talent, she was brimming with enthusiasm a few weeks ago at graduation for her launch into the workplace. Six interviews later, she was deflated and discouraged looking for work in sports management: "They offered me a full-time job at $9.00 an hour with no benefits. Another opportunity was commission only. And another only offered a small stipend. I really wanted not to have to live at home, but there don't seem to be a lot of job opportunities." Her successful paid internship at last summer's sports franchise no longer existed. Finances are tight, even for successful sports teams who are not risking hiring new employees. We explored lots of options and I asked her to consider opportunities out of her interest area for the time being. How would God like her to use her gifts? We researched from our PBU network of employers who had positive experiences with our grads. She was willing to consider what she could not see at first. She left with a list of contacts and said rather happily, "I have a lot of work to do." At the end of the conversation, she was smiling again and energized and no longer stymied in her job search. "I am glad I came by," she said. So was I.