History
- Faculty Profile - John Sharp
 John
Sharp
History
620-327-8248
johns@hesston.edu
A.A., Hesston College, 1973
B.A., Goshen (Ind.) College, 1976
M.Div., Associated Mennonite Biblical Seminary (Elkhart,
Ind.), 2005
What draws you to the field of History?
I'm drawn by a persistent need
for a frame of reference that helps me understand my contemporary world,
and for stories that illustrate
and humanize that frame of reference.
What about teaching energizes you?
I'm enegized by the engaging conversations, the probing questions,
and the variety of worldviews students bring to the classroom.
How has Hesston shaped you as a teacher?
Hesston faculty and staff profoundly influenced me in the way they
took a personal interest in me as a student, and encouraged me to
develop and use my gifts. They could see the potential even if I
could not! I was given significant leadership opportunities both
as a student, and as a staff person after I graduated. They provided
excellent role models for student-centered education--in and out
of the classroom. Now it is my privilege to try to imitate that modeling.
How will Hesston's History program challenge students academically?
Hesston's history classes will challenge students to think critically
about culture and society, to place their own story in the context
of the global story, and to read current events in the context of
past events.
What are the advantages History students find coming to Hesston?
Students will experience vigorous study in the context of a warm,
student-centered social and spiritual environment. Given the nature
and size of Hesston College, students will have many opportunities
to interact with faculty and staff on a personal and informal level.
What are some of the things students and faculty in this program
do together outside the classroom?
This past semester, I took 30 students to a conference in Oklahoma,
The "Cheyenne, Arapaho, Mennonite: Journey from Darlington" conference
gave students an opportunity to walk on the Washita National Battlefield
and hear the story of the Seventh U.S. Cavalry's attack on the sleeping
village of Cheyenne peace chief, Black Kettle in 1868. They participated
in a traditional ground blessing ceremony for the first "Return
to the Earth" burial ground for repatriated Indian remains.
They were engaged by leaders and scholars--both Native and non-Native--in
reviewing and assessing the historic relationship between Native
Americans and Americans of European descent, including Mennonite
settlers, missionaries, and school teachers. Such experiences enrich
classroom learning--sometimes dramatically.
What do high school students need to know about Hesston's learning
environment?
At Hesston there is an uncommonly-persistent effort to nurture and
improve the study habits and skills of students. ACCESS
Lab staff
and tutors track the students' progress, and offer exceptional support
at every level. We are committed to helping students succeed!
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