Position Paper
Peter J. Kendall
November 1, 2002
I believe that Robert Benne would agree with the following statement…”say what you mean and mean what you say.” In his book, “Quality with Soul” I believe Benne is challenging faith-based colleges to examine their current programs of education, scholarship and service against their founding principles and mission. Benne makes a convincing case that many faith-based colleges have departed, some slightly, others significantly, from the faith-based principles of their founding. Although he often uses language that may lead the reader to interpret his findings as “judgmental,” I interpret that his findings and conclusions simply state,”say what you mean and mean what you say.” That is, if the founding principles and mission of your college are based in the Christian tradition then be sure to regularly evaluate your actions against these principles. And, be vigilant to take steps that allow the institution to remain consistent to its founding purpose, a simple concept, and a difficult challenge.
Lenoir-Rhyne College is a college founded on the teachings and principles of the Christian faith, more specifically, on the traditions of Lutheranism. The principle of stewardship, giving and “care-taking,” is central to Christianity and Lutheranism. Because of this, I believe it is important for all members of the Lenoir-Rhyne College (LRC) community to evaluate their stewardship both individually and collectively. Collectively, members of the LRC community have been very generous stewards. The college has and continues to be the beneficiary of very generous giving from individuals, groups and the entire Hickory community. The college has also been taken care of well during the more than one hundred years of its history. However, there have been times where the discipline of “care-taking” has waned.
As with many organizations, faith-based and secular, I believe the waning of the “care-taking” discipline is often the result of the hesitancy to confront difficult and sometimes “unpleasant” issues and decisions. For example, saying “no.” I believe, however, and I sense that Benne would agree, that effective stewardship must include a healthy balance between giving (i.e. saying “yes”) and “care-taking” which requires the need to say “no” more than just occasionally.