News

GameJam 'levels up' student experiences

On Sept. 24, Taylor University’s 20th GameJam concluded at 12:15 a.m. Sunday morning. GameJam is a tournament in which students create a video game from scratch in only 24 hours. Last week, ten teams competed. The groups developed code, game design and music. 

ID swipe-cards replaced by smartcards

Taylor University transitioned to smartcards, keeping students safe one tap at a time. In the past, students swiped their ID cards to gain access into academic buildings, athletic buildings and residence halls. With constant advancements in technology, the university decided to update its system. 

University shares plans for residential village

The construction of the residential village is projected to begin at the end of November and be completed by August 2024.Taylor University plans to use the field south of the Olson parking lot for new residential housing. The village has multiple names, but Ron Sutherland, supervisor of the project and special assistant to the president, referred to it as the residential village. 

Residence halls undergo renovations

Over the summer of 2023, both Olson and Wengatz Halls underwent several renovations. Renovations look different for each hall. In Wengatz, there was the major addition of the kitchen area, which had previously been just a community lounge. 

University navigates Brightspace shift

Some classes this semester are using Desire to Learn’s “Brightspace” as Taylor University transitions to another Learning Management System. Though Blackboard is still used in some classes, the university hopes students and faculty this semester will become acquainted with the new learning system. All classes will use Brightspace starting in the spring semester.

Zondervan is changing

Zondervan Library underwent changes over the summer to better accommodate students. Some of these updates included: widening aisles, weeding out books, creating more study space and introducing self-checkout. 

New smartcards on campus

Taylor University transitioned to smartcards, keeping students safe one tap at a time.In the past, students swiped their ID cards to gain access into academic buildings, athletic buildings and residence halls. With constant advancements in technology, the university decided to update their system. 

Suspects caught in unlocked car

Two Taylor University students interrupted an individual going through an unlocked car on campus. When the students confronted the individual, he pointed a firearm at them and fled campus in a vehicle with two other suspects. No students were injured.

TU systems face cyberattack

On the morning of May 18, a cyberattack temporarily disabled university systems for the first time in Taylor’s history.Chief Information Officer Chris Jones was preparing for the Board of Trustees meeting when he noticed the print server was offline.

Pierce disaffiliates from denomination

People filled the rows of chairs on Sunday morning at Pierce Church.For many, nothing had changed after leaving the United Methodist Church. The only physical remnant that indicated change was the removal of their old church sign: Pierce Chapel United Methodist Church.

Zondy’s cafe opening in late October in Zondervan Galleria

Taylor University’s new cafe will replace a popular study spot in the Zondervan Library’s galleria and is projected to open in late October. The initial September opening of the new cafe is pushed back due to ongoing construction bids. 

Dining location moves to Euler

Taylor University partnered with AVI to be their new dining service in spring 2023.This happened while Taylor was preparing to remodel the Hodson Dining Commons. The plan for construction was to work on separate parts of the building during two different summers.

Taylor students transition into school year

Taylor secures $250,000 grant for community development

Lilly Endowment Inc. recently awarded the university a $250,000 grant as part of a community development plan between Taylor University and the city of Upland. Taylor is working with a multidisciplinary team, Marsh Collective, to establish a comprehensive plan for the improvement of the Upland and Taylor communities.

Dyson becomes campus pastor

The Rev. Gregory Dyson assumed the campus pastor position July 15, 2023.On June 12, President Michael Lindsay announced Dyson’s expanded role. As vice president for spiritual life & intercultural leadership, and campus pastor, he will continue to perform the responsibilities of his previous and new position. His new role includes oversight of both the campus’ intercultural and spiritual needs.  

University prepares for 2023 commencement

Nine staff and faculty retire at end of year

Echo receives awards from ICPA and other media organizations

2022-23 student awards chosen by departments

Press Start: students participate in 19th GameJam