Life Pacific University offers a mentorship program, which is a catalyst for student-driven growth, fostering meaningful connections with esteemed members of the Board of Trustees, staff, and faculty. It opens doors to invaluable relationships, transformative conversations, and life-changing opportunities.
Meet Chandler Sargent, a passionate learner from the class of ’25, eagerly embracing the guidance of his mentor, Dr. Michael Whyte, the Chairman of the Board. Through their one-on-one meetings, Chandler receives invaluable advice, heartfelt care, and a profound understanding of the power of mentorship.
Reflecting on his experience, Chandler shares, “Having someone like Dr. Whyte invest their time in me and guide me in the right direction has been a game-changer. I finally have the guidance and accountability I need to grow personally and professionally and to cultivate meaningful relationships.”
Michael M. Whyte is the Provost Emeritus and a Professor at Azusa Pacific University. As Provost from 2002 to 2010, Michael led six schools, one college, and 400 full-time and 700 adjunct faculty. He supervised enrollment management, academic services, and seven regional campuses. Michael now teaches in APU’s leadership department, the MBA program, and in doctoral studies. With over 15 years of accreditation experience, he has also served as a Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Commissioner. He holds a B.S. in International Affairs/American Politics from the USAF Academy and an M.S. and Ph.D. in Education from the University of Southern California. Michael was Senior Associate Professor at the USAF Academy, a National Defense Fellow and Visiting Professor at Howard University, and a Professor at Northern Arizona University. Michael and his wife, Robin, have been married for 35 years and have three children and three grandchildren. As committed Christ followers, the Whyte’s attend Calvary Chapel of Upland and deeply love the Foursquare Church.
He emphasizes the reciprocal nature of mentoring, drawing inspiration from Proverbs 27:17, As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another. Dr. Whyte says, “Mentoring is definitely a two-way street he says, “You learn from each other, pray for each other, and grow together. Both individuals greatly benefit from a spirit-filled mutual relationship.”
Through the Mentorship program, LPU empowers students like Chandler to thrive spiritually, professionally, and interpersonally. It’s a powerful opportunity to expand horizons, forge lasting connections, and build a foundation for a successful and impactful future.
We express our sincere gratitude for Dr. Whyte, whose exemplary leadership sets a shining example for fellow trustees and aspiring leaders who share a passion for investing in the next generation.
