Born with Cystic Fibrosis, a genetic disorder that shortens life expectancy, McSurley credits his ambition for serving others to his own sense of urgency about life.
“Life is full of unexpected changes, but knowing that my time is limited really makes me want to get things done,” McSurley says. “It gives me drive.” |
After graduation, McSurley plans to attend Trinity Lutheran Seminary in Columbus, Ohio.
“He has a very strong faith and a commitment to leading,” says Dave and Carol Matevia Endowed University Pastor Rachel Tune, who has watched McSurley grow as a leader through involvement in Wittenberg’s Lutheran Student Movement, IMANI Gospel Choir, Weaver Chapel Association, Campus Ministries House and other faith-based programs that have prepared him for seminary.
Living in the Campus Ministries House affords McSurley unique opportunities to engage with students from different faith backgrounds, and the religion major and communication minor loves exploring new perspectives on faith with his fellow students.
“Having faith is a constant struggle,” McSurley says. “If you’re certain in your beliefs, there’s no room for faith. It’s an endless roller coaster between faith and doubt.”
As the Campus Ministries House community advisor, he coordinates programs that welcome the campus community to the house in an effort to connect students of all faith backgrounds and to create an environment in which students feel welcome to ask questions, explore and talk about their beliefs.
Through these conversations, McSurley hopes to help other students strengthen their own faith and find their passion, just as he has.
“Wittenberg has provided me with strong leadership experiences that have greatly reinforced my external call to ministry. The community has continuously shown me what it means to put others first,” McSurley says. “Serving others has become a great passion of mine and now, because of Witt, I can say I have learned how to do so from the best.”
Written by: Shay Thomas
