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DIS Cohort - Spring 2021

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Spring 2021 Cohort

Individually Tailored

The DIS cohort consists of four modules, each comprising courses that address research and application in context. Students will integrate theory and practical research to develop an individually tailored action plan to effect change in their service context.

Holistic Formation

Guided by faculty, students participate in a unique cohort learning approach, growing holistically as missional leaders and change agents.

Collaborative Community

Students work together to understand key concepts and share in ways that sharpen one another both academically and spiritually. The cohort becomes a vibrant learning community that supports one another through the doctoral process, graduating with a project directly applicable to their work.

Accessible Format

Students interact primarily online, developing their ministry effectiveness without leaving the context of their service.

Wendy Smiley

Cohort Mentor

Gwendolyn Smiley, Adjunct Professor of Leadership

Dr. Smiley (MAGL ’09, DIS ’18) has been involved in cross-cultural Christian work for over 30 years primarily in the Middle East. She and her husband raised their four children overseas as they worked alongside local fellowships and discipled believers. She now is the Personnel Director as well as Deputy International Director for their cross-cultural organization. Dr. Smiley specializes in Appreciative Inquiry change dynamics, mentor-coaching, adult dialogue education, and leadership development. She won the Alan R. Tippett Award for excellence in integrating research in the multiplicity of disciplines contributing to the field of missiology. Her research led to the establishment of an Appreciative Mentoring process and online mentor training for her organization. 

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Important Dates

Early Application Deadline: November 1, 2021
Application Deadline: January 1, 2021
Term Begins: March 29, 2021
First Synchronous Online Intensive: May 17-28, 2021
Location: 1st year Online, Years 2-4 TBD

Katie Newton

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