This summer I had the joy of returning to Rwanda (with my daughter!) to celebrate Urwego’s 25th anniversary. Urwego is one of the oldest microfinance institutions in HOPE’s network—and where I served as executive director from 1999-2002. The anniversary celebration brought together church partners, government officials, staff, and current and former Urwego loan recipients...
For as long as I can remember, the words “young” and “idealistic” have gone together like “cap” and “gown.” Generations of young idealists with a new degree have set out to change the world, buoyed by the conviction that the world’s challenges should be addressed and that they should address them. With graduation season...
I met Dr. Jo Anne Lyon a few springs ago at Houghton College’s commencement. Now in her eighties, she exudes both an idealist’s enthusiasm and a seasoned leader’s grit. It’s an exceedingly rare combination. Her infectious joy and winsome invitation to the next generation of servant leaders inspired me to learn more—and the more...