Date: October 3, 2002
Contact: Karin Schilt
Phone: (909) 785-2001
E-mail: pr@lasierra.edu

Additional Photos available here >

La Sierra University marked its 80th anniversary on October 3, 2002, with the unveiling and dedication of Alan Collins's sculpture, "The Glory of God's Grace" at the entrance plaza of the upcoming Riverwalk entrance.

The sculpture depicts a scene from one of the three complementary parables in Luke, chapter 15, which together are intended to symbolize the glory of God's grace. The particular scene in the La Sierra sculpture is of the loving father with his two lost sons. It is a gift to the University from alumnus Thaine Price, M.D., in memory of his wife, Wanda, who was also a student at La Sierra. Plans are underway for installing sculptures of the two complementary parables on the campus. President Lawrence T. Geraty remarked that this sculpture represents the first in a "string of pearls" that will grace the campus. Together, these three images illustrate not only God's grace, but the philosophy of Seventh-day Adventist education at La Sierra University where "the work of education and redemption are one."

The sculptor, Alan Collins, was born in the County of Surrey, England, and schooled at the Wimbledon College of Art. He has several sculptures on display across the county, including "The Good Samaritan" on the Loma Linda University campus. Collins taught sculpture, design, and drawing at La Sierra University from 1978-1989. The bronze figures in the sculpture are approximately 8' tall at the highest point. Collins says he has spent 2 years on the sculpture.

The unveiling of the statue took place at 12:00 p.m. at the new entrance plaza on Pierce Street. All are welcome to come and witness firsthand "The Glory of God's Grace."

For more information, contact La Sierra University Public Relations office at (909) 785-2001.

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