Partnership History

In the spring of 1999, World Vision International approached Eastern University with a framework for a leadership development initiative to develop emerging leaders within their organization. Eastern was able to share its own work thus far in a new leadership degree program and a longstanding economic development program also focused on equipping leaders in the two-thirds world for ministry. The similarities of mission and vision were striking and were the spark for the decision to work together for the Pathways to Leadership initiative.

For the past five years, World Vision and Eastern University have worked together to develop a contextualized curriculum and delivery system that allowed leaders to apply their graduate studies to their ministry in World Vision. The program enjoyed the involvement of students from over 55 countries, 40% of whom are women, and is delivered in both English and Spanish. The first students of this unique partnership initiative graduated in May 2003.

Expanding the Vision

In the fall of 2002, Habitat for Humanity International joined forces with Eastern University and World Vision International in this unique learning journey. This new version of Pathways is an MA in Organizational Leadership.

While the program has evolved and the relationships expanded, the commitment remains the same - to prepare a cadre of Christian leaders with the vision, character, and competence necessary to effectively lead an International NGO in the accomplishment of its mission and the struggle for a world that no longer tolerates poverty.

"Nothing is more critical to an organization than the quality of its leaders. The loftiest vision, most effective strategy, the most cogent plan is nothing more than words on paper without gifted and trained leaders to translate them into reality." - Dean Hirsch, President, World Vision International