The Bridge: October 2, 2026

A Note from Brian Baker

It has been a great first month at both of our campuses this Fall. I am so impressed with the students the Lord has sent our way. It is a joy to watch them form friendships in the classroom, dorms, service assignments, and ministry assignments, and to see them hang out on and off campus. I love walking beside them on the sidewalk or pulling up a chair in the dining room to hear all they are learning. Worshiping together with them in Campus Community or Chapels is a highlight of my week. Your students have been learning how to share their faith and either have or will be given the opportunity to put that into practice in ministry. Keep praying that the Lord will refine us all as we seek to grow in Him. To God be the glory! 

New York 

Latest News

Upcoming Events

Campus Preview Days (October 8-9)

• Our first New York Campus Preview Days are coming soon! This is a great opportunity for high school students to experience the Bible Institute firsthand. Help us spread the word! 

Homecoming (October 9-11)

• Homecoming Weekend is almost here! If you’re an alumnus of Word of Life Bible Institute—or just looking for a reason to visit your student—join us for a fun, fellowship-filled weekend! Today is the deadline for housing requests, so reserve your spot below!

Essentials ACBC Conference (October 16–17)

• These optional workshops are back this fall! Whether students, staff, or guests desire to grow in discipleship ministry, be better equipped to care for others, or pursue certification in biblical counseling, this training conference is designed to help them take the next step. 

Meet Our New York Student Life Team!

• Justin Cousins – Dean of Students – Justin challenges the student body to step boldly into God’s calling for their lives. He and his wife, Alicia, along with their children Hudson and Harper, set a beautiful example of a family pursuing the Lord together. Email: jtcousins@wol.org 
• Karen Smith – Dean of Women – For the past decade, Karen has been faithfully serving the young women of our campus. She leads with compassion and a strong desire to help students grow in their relationship with Christ. Karen oversees our women’s Resident Directors, Chelsea Cunningham and Sophia Miranda. Email: karensmith@wol.org  
• Kairo Oliveira – Dean of Men – Kairo passionately encourages our young men to grow in their walk with the Lord. He and his wife, Julia, love students practically, genuinely, and intentionally. Kairo leads our men’s Resident Directors, Luke Ogden and Corbin Baker. Email: kroliveira@wol.org  

Florida

Latest News 

Crews Lake Picnic (September 3):

• We had a blast kicking off the semester at our annual Crews Lake Day picnic! From good food, fun games, and great company, it was the perfect way to start the semester!  

OAE (September 10–15):

• Our students had the opportunity to go do Open Air Evangelism. They went into the Tampa Bay area and shared the Gospel with thousands of people! They were challenged to go outside of their comfort zone, stand firm on the truth of God’s Word, and talk to complete strangers! We are so proud of how hard the students worked and how willing they were to have Gospel conversations. Through the trips, we saw 3,131 conversations, 631 full Gospel presentations, and 57 people profess faith in Jesus! Praise God for all he did through our students.   

Campus Community

• Every Thursday night in the TAC. We worship, open the Word, and pray together. We are studying the Sermon on the Mount all year long.

Sunset Beach Devo (September 18):

• 43 of the students attended this optional event at Indian Rocks Beach, they gathered for fellowship, worship and a devo.  

Palm Grove/Student Mixer (September 24)

• Students and Palm Grove residents gathered for a dessert fellowship Meet & Greet. Fellowship, yummy desserts & bingo were planned for a fun night of getting the two generations together.  

Upcoming Events

Fall Festival (October 1)

• Students will enjoy a day of fun at The Grove, with friendly competitions like cornhole and three-legged races, pumpkin painting, and a cookout near the pickleball courts. 

Esther Drama Event (October 8)

• This live musical event of the story of Esther starring our students.  

Campus Preview Days

• We’re expecting around 30 visitors and their parents for our Florida Campus Preview Days. Thursday evening includes the live musical production of Esther on stage in the Harry Bollback Performing Arts Center. On Friday, guests will sit in classes, enjoy lunch with our students, and have time to ask questions and apply. Please pray for God’s direction as they consider attending the Bible Institute. 

Meet Our Florida Student Life Team!

• Jeremy Long – Dean of Men – Jeremy attended the Florida Bible Institute from 2009–2012 and has served in a variety of roles, including the Impact Team, Maintenance Team, and seven summers on Word of Life Island. He and his wife, Haley, along with their children June, Henry, and Summer, are a wonderful addition to our team. Email: jylong@wol.org  
• Michele Jones – Dean of Women – Michele has a heart for discipleship and faithfully meets with students for counseling and spiritual guidance. She and her husband, Jeff, live nearby and are active in the campus community. Email: mrjones@wol.org  

Resident Directors

• Josie Ganawah – Men’s Resident Coordinator 
• Gracie Duncan – Women’s Resident Director 
• Caleb Nastasi – Men’s Student Life Intern 
• Ellen Hennessay – Women’s Student Life Intern