Evangel University

The administration at Evangel University is committed to curating and developing stu-dents into compassionate innovators. “Those are two things we really try to implement throughout all we do here,” said Erin Hedlun, Director of Marketing & Communications for Evangel University. 

Hedlun described a compassionate innovator as a student or current or future professional who is looking to advance their degree or gain some professional development. Hedlun said it is key that this person has a heart of service,  the humility to serve, and on the cutting edge of their field.

“They are well equipped to go into a broad array of fields and careers by staying up to date on the most relevant technologies, services and products that are offered so they can very quickly start making an impact in whatever careers they choose to pursue,” said Hedlun. 

While Evangel looks for compassionate innovators among its students, Hedlun said the business community would benefit from looking for them when it comes to new hires and seeking them out among current employees and leadership.

“Having a compassionate heart and adding in that innovation element really makes for a whole, well-rounded person. It’s important for any business that’s looking to hire or retain employees to cultivate that sense of humility and innovation.

“People are hired because they bring a certain skill set to the table,” said Hedlun. “They may be well trained and well equipped to execute this skill set, but a mind and heart of service and the humility that comes from that brings an extra component to a person that you would like to see in a leadership role in your company or community. They have the skills and tools necessary to do a job well, and they enter into any role in an organization saying, ‘How can I serve?’”

Hedlun said that Evangel has a unique distinction when it comes to developing compassionate innovators.

“We help them acquire and hone the necessary skills to be the best at their chosen career but also that heart of service so they can go out into the world and make a difference.” 

Hedlun recommends that anyone looking to bring on new staff for their organization start the process by asking what roles the candidate has served within their community.

“If you look for employees who have demonstrated service to their community, you’re going to find those compassionate innovators,” said Hedlun. “We move so quickly in today’s world and there’s so much automation that sometimes we miss that human component. As an employer, you’re looking to bring people into your organization that understand that personal touch. That’s the heart of the compassionate innovator.”