Nikki Bown - Quest Coordinator

Nikki is a 2009 graduate of the UW and happy to be a part of the Crossing team. Bringing her degrees in English Literature and Integrated Liberal Studies and a passion for travel to the table, Nikki comes to the Crossing deeply indebted to broad, comprehensive, and global education. Having done her fair share of wandering, Nikki is thrilled to be able to provide others with unparalleled opportunities for exploration.

She says, "I'm passionate about the work we do with the Quest program because I believe travel can be a critical element of a person's process of growth: it challenges our assumptions about other people and places, separates us from our expectations of the norm, and introduces us to the idea that nothing is as simple as our old models might have led us to believe. When we take that risk to venture away from what is familiar, we will come back with a clearer understanding of ourselves and others in an increasingly complicated world. I look forward to seeing the new ways that Quest can challenge and inspire the students of today and leaders of tomorrow!"

This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Doug Pierce - The Crossing Director and Campus Minister

As the Director of the Crossing and the mastermind behind the Quest program, Doug certainly keeps himself busy! He can usually be recognized by the cup of coffee in his hand as he runs about overseeing programs, nurturing community partnerships, facilitating board development, and "doing the books." In all he does, Doug strives to make the Crossing a welcoming, open, respectful and diverse Christian community where people from all walks of life can explore their relationship to God, each other, and the world.

Here's what Doug has to say about his own faith-journey: "My faith has been enriched and nurtured by several religious traditions (through upbringing, seminary training and mentors whom I was blessed to develop significant relationships with over the years). I come to The Crossing with a deep respect and appreciation for the varieties of religious experience and its many expressions." Doug loves the work that he does and wants to welcome you to come share in this experience at the Crossing.

This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Karla Schmidt - Campus Minister

To put it bluntly, Karla loves hanging out with students! She considers one's college years to be some of the most life-transforming, and wants the Crossing to be a place where young adults from all faith backgrounds can question and grapple with spiritual issues. She is a huge advocate for open-minded dialogue and champions opportunities that allow people to challenge themselves and grow just as much spiritually as they do intellectually.

Karla is in charge of all the activities, programs, and worship that take place here and wants to invite you to take part in them: "It is a joy and privilege to serve as Campus Minister among so many wonderful students! I hope you will join us in our journey to grow in grace, in community with one another, and in service to the world. At the Crossing, we offer opportunities for students to grow spiritually during their university career. Check out our activities and come join us in the area where you feel a tug at your heart! If you have questions about The Crossing, please contact me."

This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it