Parents

My name is Brittany Pedersen and I am the dean of InterVarsity Leadership Institute, an InterVarsity Campus Minister of 13 years and a mother.

I am excited that your student is considering attending IVLI. IVLI has an almost 70 year legacy of developing Christian leaders for the workplace, community, ministry and missions.

It may be that you are here because you are part of their decision making process as they look at their options for the summer. As a mother, I understand that we all desire the best future for our kids and it is many of the smaller decisions along the way that open or close doors on that future. For that reason you may be weighing the options and wondering if IVLI is the right option for your student’s summer.

As we have relaunched the program I have had the privilege of hearing many alumni of the program speak to the innumerable ways that God’s changed their lives through IVLI. The beauty of Cedar Bay escorts students into deep conversations with the God who created it. The Bible studies and preaching help root students’ understanding of leadership in the truth of Scripture. Small groups (called family groups) give processing space and meaningful community through their weeks at camp. Morning sessions and leadership labs provide training that grows students in the heart of a Christian leader and equips them to lead.

But is it worth it? Currently your student is deeply invested in preparing for a career—spending 4+ years and tens of thousands of dollars on their education. Obviously, as a campus ministry, we understand that and care deeply about helping students steward their intellect and education well.  The effort to make the most of the education college offers can be all consuming but it is important not to forget the spiritual preparation they need for the world after college as well.  I would ask you to consider encouraging them to give this two week period to developing their relationship with God and ability to lead others well during college and for the rest of their lives.

Please, feel free to reach out with any questions that arise as your student considers applying to come.  I am very passionate about the program and would love to help you through that discernment process however I can.

Brittany Pedersen

Dean of InterVarsity Leadership Institute

Campus Staff Minister at UW-Madison