Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in our Fall 2023 Newsletter. In honor of Women’s History Month, we are republishing it here.
by Matéa Baltic-Hopkins
Full-time homeschool mom and current military reservist, Deana Sanchez is the epitome of a lifelong learner. Sanchez graduated with her Masters of Divinity last fall [2022]. Already, she has been able to put the principles of her curriculum to practice, particularly using the counseling courses offered in the program. Sanchez often counsels soldiers and occasionally does so alongside her husband, Jacob, who is active-duty military. Together, they have made an incredible impact on the lives of soldiers who so often struggle with mental illness.
Her purposeful application of Manna U’s curriculum, however, is not only exclusive to her work. “God has used Manna University as a tool to make me a better wife, mother, and teacher,” Sanchez assured. Her 10 years studying at Manna University for her undergraduate and graduate degrees have primarily been spent in pursuit of becoming a better teacher for her daughter. The “family-oriented atmosphere,” as Deana describes it, is a significant reason for her educational success.
When studying full-time in her undergraduate degree, Deana was actively caring for four children in her household. Accessibility to education with constant support from her professors was key during this hectic season. “Never have I felt like I or my family was just a number,” she affirmed. “If I ever needed prayer, I always knew I could pick up the phone and call.” From her own experience, Deana’s professors have gone “above and beyond” for the past decade of her studies.
From the trials of not only being a military spouse, but being in the army herself, Manna U has always been a beacon of accessibility and stability. If one does not feel equipped to answer the call to formal education, Deana advises, “If God is calling you, there is nothing that can stop it. The first step of faith is all you need.”
More information on our Master of Arts in Christian Leadership and Master of Divinity programs are available on our website. Those interested in Chaplain Candidacy should email info@manna.edu to request additional information.
