Grace College Welcomes Two New Faculty Members

This fall, Grace College welcomes two new faculty members to campus: Dr. Brenda Whitehead, associate professor of behavioral science and Dr. Kevin Voogt, assistant professor of education.

Dr. Brenda Whitehead holds an M.A. and Ph.D. in lifespan developmental psychology from the University of Notre Dame, and B.A. in psychology from Northwest Nazarene University. She has a strong background in research over the last decade, receiving both external and internal funding for her more than 20 peer-reviewed articles. Dr. Whitehead comes to Grace from the University of Michigan Dearborn where she reached the rank of associate professor.

“We’re ecstatic to welcome Dr. Whitehead to the School of Behavioral Sciences,” said Dr. Kevin Roberts, dean of the School of Behavioral Sciences.  “Dr. Whitehead’s expertise in developmental psychology, aging and coping allow us to strengthen and diversify our course offerings. Her extensive experience working with older adults including areas of health behaviors, religiousness, perceived stress and well-being aligns with Grace’s commitment to doing applied research.”

Dr. Whitehead’s teaching philosophy fits well with the School of Behavioral Science at Grace.

“I look forward to the opportunity to be more overt about integrating faith and psychology research now that I am at Grace, as research in psychology and the behavioral sciences consistently bear out the truth we find in Scripture,” said Whitehead. “I am also looking forward to forging new connections with the people and community organizations in Kosciusko county where I hope I can contribute in some way with my research,” she said.

“We are excited to have Dr. Whitehead join our growing and dynamic team here in the School of Behavioral Sciences and Grace College as a whole,” said Dr. Kelly Arney, associate dean of the School of Behavioral Sciences. “With Dr. Whitehead, the combined strengths and course offerings of our department will now provide an even stronger platform for growth in student learning and research.”

The Grace College School of Education is equally delighted to bring a new member on board.

“We are so excited to welcome Dr. Kevin Voogt to our team. Dr. Voogt brings with him rich experiences in teaching along with impressive expertise in mathematics education. His energy, positive attitude and collaborative skills make him a great fit for our team.  Our students will be blessed by getting to know this wonderful, caring professor,” said Dr. Cheryl Bremer, dean of the School of Education.

Voogt graduated from Calvin University in Grand Rapids, Michigan, where he majored in secondary mathematics education. He obtained his Ph.D. in mathematics education at Michigan State University in East Lansing, Michigan.

Voogt taught high school math for eight years in public schools around the country, including New Mexico, Florida, Wisconsin and Texas. His extensive teaching experience allowed him to go straight into his Ph.D. program after his undergraduate degree.

Voogt will teach Math for Elementary Education Teachers, Responsive and Differentiated Instruction, Secondary Methods of Math, Methods of Teaching Elementary Mathematics and Teaching in a Pluralistic Society.

After nearly a decade of teaching in a secular setting, Voogt is thrilled to teach at Grace where faith is central to academics.

“Here at Grace, I will, for the first time, have a chance to integrate my faith into teaching courses. I am so excited to not only share my experiences in the ‘mission field’ but also discuss why and how we show God’s love to our students. I’m excited to help prospective teachers understand that as image-bearers of Christ, we have a unique opportunity to model Christ’s love and grace for our students — impacting their lives for the better,” said Voogt.

“Both Brenda and Kevin are shining examples of the ways of Grace,” said Dr. Laurie Owen, vice president of academic affairs at Grace. “Our top-notch education is not just supplemented by our faith, it’s motivated by it. The way of grace leads us to explore powerful academics, create meaningful careers and launch purposeful lives.”

For more information about any of the academic programs mentioned, please visit www.grace.edu/academics.