University of the Nations: Reimagining the Future of Global Higher Education

“University of the Nations: Reimagining the Future of Higher Education” by Trent Sheppard is not simply an essay on educational philosophy or a ministry report. It is a profound reflection that calls us to consider more deeply the identity and future of the University of the Nations (UofN).

Trent currently serves as the Training Director at UofN Kona and is a member of the International Provost Team. As a graduate of the UofN and a long-time YWAM leader, he is, in Loren Cunningham’s words, “someone who can speak with clarity and conviction about what the UofN is—and what it is not—because he has lived it.” He is a leader who embodies one of YWAM’s core values: “Do first, then teach.”

This article reminds us why God entrusted YWAM with a “university” and outlines the foundations on which we must continue to build for the future—expressed through five Foundational Words and three Future Frontiers. It challenges not only our staff and students but also the wider body of Christ to see where we stand in the global educational landscape and what mission we have been given.

The translation and editing of this work were made possible through the faithful service of many. Special thanks to Changhoon Lee from the International Provost Team and Soyoung Ryu; Heejin Park from the Training Team at UofN Jeju; Ji Lee from the Planning Department at UofN Jeju; and Jessica Park from the Training Team at UofN Kona.

As I worked on the translation, I was struck once again by how deeply missional and timely God’s call is to redeem and redefine the word “university.” My prayer is that this article will spark fresh vision and bold faith within our community and among the generations to come.

— Steve Donguk Kang, Planning Director