At The Institute for GOD, our commitment to integrating professional development with Christian principles was vividly showcased at our recent DevTalks event. This platform, part of our Professional Development (ProDev) program, bridges academic learning with practical insights from seasoned Christian professionals. The third event of the 2023-2024 academic year featured two insightful presentations, enriching our students' learning experience.

Mastering the Art of First Impressions by Adam Loeffler

Adam Loeffler, Managing Director of Details Nashville and Chairman of The Institute for GOD Board of Directors, opened the session with his talk, "Mastering the Art of First Impressions." Adam's expertise in hospitality and service was evident as he covered key aspects like eye contact, smiling, body language, handshakes, active listening, and remembering names. His approach was not just theoretical but interactive and humorous, making the learning experience both engaging and memorable. Students learned practical tips, such as how to recover gracefully from a forgotten name — an essential skill in both personal and professional settings.

3 Ways to Demonstrate Spiritual Hospitality by Jennifer Nyago

Jennifer Nyago, Director of Student and Community Life, brought a unique perspective on hospitality in her presentation, "3 Ways to Demonstrate Spiritual Hospitality." Emphasizing that hospitality is more about the individual than a checklist, Jennifer highlighted the importance of self-awareness and the discipline required to truly embody hospitality. Her insights encouraged students to see hospitality as a holistic practice, integrating awareness of self and others into everyday interactions — a vital skill in any service-oriented profession.

Student Engagement and Practical Applications

The students of The Institute for GOD actively participated in the event, especially during the Q&A session led by Professor Laurie Kagay. They asked relevant questions and drew practical conclusions on how to apply these lessons in organizing student events like Preview Days and attending networking functions. This interaction underscores our goal of preparing students for real-world scenarios they will encounter in their future ministries and professional endeavors.

Conclusion and Anticipation for Future Events

As a Bible and missions college, we understand the importance of balancing academic rigor with practical, real-world skills. The DevTalks series is an integral part of this balance, providing our students with invaluable insights from Christian professionals who excel in their fields. We eagerly anticipate the continued growth and development of our students as they apply these lessons in their academic and professional journeys.

Stay Tuned

For more updates on our programs and events, keep an eye on our website and social media channels. We're dedicated to equipping the next generation of Christian leaders with the knowledge, skills, and spiritual foundation needed to make a significant impact in the world.