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Life often presents us with unexpected surprises, and for one student at Columbia International University (��ο��Ƶ), the final days of her Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) journey were no exception. Three days before defending her dissertation, Jordan Turner, who will soon be welcoming her first child, learned she was pregnant. Despite the timing, this milestone moment has only added to the excitement as she looks forward to the future, both as a new mother and as a professional.

Meet the Family Behind the Journey

Jordan is a passionate and dedicated professional who is married to her supportive husband, Ben. Together, they manage a small farm with dairy goats, quail and chickens, while also caring for eight beloved cats. Yet, the most recent and surprising addition to their growing family is their unborn child, Baby Turner, who is expected in July 2025. “We had planned not to have children, but through a series of events during the summer of 2024, the Lord worked on our hearts, and we couldn’t be more excited to welcome our baby,” she shares. Her story is one of faith, love and divine timing, as the couple embarks on this new chapter of their lives.

Choosing ��ο��Ƶ: A Call to Serve and Teach

When asked why she chose to pursue her Doctor of Business Administration at CIU, Jordan points to the encouragement of Dr. Kimberly Maiocco, who recommended she pursue her terminal degree to enhance her teaching capabilities. “Dr. Maiocco had a connection to ��ο��Ƶ and as I explored the university, I was drawn to the Christ-centered nature of the school. It felt like the right fit, and when my husband and I felt called to pursue my doctorate, ��ο��Ƶ was the clear choice,” she explains.

Her time at CIU has been transformative, not only professionally but spiritually. The atmosphere at CIU, rooted in biblical values, provided her with a unique learning environment that aligned perfectly with her personal and professional goals.

What She Loved About CIU

Throughout her academic journey, Jordan found great value in the courses she took, which helped her grow both in the classroom and in her professional life. “The courses were great, and I learned so much from them,” she says. “The content was not only insightful, but it was also grounded in a biblical worldview, which I deeply appreciated.” The supportive and nurturing faculty played a significant role in her success. Despite the challenges, her professors were always encouraging and patient, particularly when she struggled with certain topics. “The mentorship process was wonderful, and it helped me build my Applied Doctoral Research (ADPE) project with clarity and confidence,” she adds.

Tips for Balancing Life and Education

Balancing a rigorous doctoral program with life’s many responsibilities is no easy feat, but this graduate has learned how to manage it all with grace. Her tip for success: “Don’t procrastinate. Make school part of your routine.” She explains, “This program is rigorous for a reason, but by sticking to a schedule and working consistently, I was able to manage my coursework alongside my full-time job, farm duties and church responsibilities.”

Indeed, her life is busy. In addition to teaching and managing the farm, she actively participates in her church’s student ministry, leads Bible studies and supports her marriage. “My husband has been an incredible support throughout this journey,” she shares. “He was understanding when I needed to focus on my assignments and my ADPE, even when it meant letting some chores go. I’m thankful for his patience and encouragement.”

Looking Ahead: Future with Her Degree

Upon graduation, Jordan hopes to continue teaching and serving at the institution where she currently works. She feels called to expand her role, particularly in the graduate program and is excited to see where her education will take her next. “I’m excited to see what doors the Lord will open for me in the future,” she says. “I’m also grateful to the faculty at CIU, Dr. Maiocco and my family for their support throughout this process.”

She also acknowledges the timing of her pregnancy as a blessing, particularly in light of the demands of a doctoral program. “I thank God that Baby Turner came into our lives after I had completed my degree. I’m not sure how I would have balanced it all otherwise, but now that I’ve completed this chapter, I’m excited to see what the next one holds for our family, for my husband and for our baby.”

As she prepares for this new season of life, Jordan’s journey is a testament to the power of faith, hard work and support from those around her. She looks forward to seeing how her education and experience will continue to shape God’s plan for her life and the life of her growing family.

Congratulations to this remarkable graduate, and may the journey ahead be filled with continued success, joy and blessings.

Ready to pursue your own journey of faith, family and academic growth? Columbia International University’s Doctor of Business Administration program is designed to equip you with the skills and biblical foundation to excel in your calling. Explore how ��ο��Ƶ can help you balance life’s priorities while advancing your education.

Start your journey today. Learn more about the DBA program at CIU.

Higher learning. Deeper faith. A Christ-centered community on campus and online. or at CIU by contacting Admissions at (803) 807-5024 or admissions@ciu.edu.