TEAM Scholarship Supports Karen Anderson’s Call to Educational Ministry

BERRIEN SPRINGS, Mich. (AP) — Karen Anderson’s call to ministry began in childhood, when she played school with her younger sister, graded papers and explained lessons until they were understood.

Now, after earning a bachelor’s degree in early childhood development, Anderson is preparing to pursue a graduate degree in educational leadership at Andrews University.

With support from Time for Equality in Adventist Ministry, or TEAM, she hopes to strengthen her skills and expand her impact as an educator and Christian leader.

Anderson’s passion for teaching is rooted in her own academic struggles during elementary school. After falling behind in third grade, she found it difficult to catch up and often felt less capable than her classmates.

That experience shaped her desire to become the kind of educator who recognizes children’s needs early and helps them build confidence.

“My life’s goal is to show children love by meeting their needs, nurturing them, teaching them and helping them grow in their gifts,” Anderson said.

Although she initially questioned whether she was prepared to lead, Anderson said her faith helped her accept the opportunity.

“I remembered that God can call anyone,” she said. “I accept the good plans the Lord has for me and will carry them out with love and grace.”

TEAM supports women pursuing ministry through education, scholarships and advocacy. Its mission recognizes that ministry takes many forms, including teaching, leadership, chaplaincy and pastoral service.

For Anderson, the scholarship would help reduce the financial burden of graduate school and allow her to continue developing the gifts she believes God has given her.

By supporting women like Anderson, TEAM helps remove barriers and equips emerging leaders to serve their churches, schools and communities with faith, compassion and purpose.