Faculty Focus: Dr. Dwayne Pedroza

Title: Director of Internship and Ministry, Barnabas Pastoral Program, College of Theology

Years at GCU: 7 years (consists of adjunct and full time)

Academic degrees:

What is your most notable accomplishment in your field, and why was it important?

One of the most rewarding things to me has been being involved in the Barnabas Pastoral Program from ground zero and being able to have an impact on the program and students.

God has put all the pieces together from my life experiences, ministry experiences and teaching experiences and brought it all together for this position in the Barnabas Pastoral Program. I have always believed it is important to invest and help future pastors, and now I get to do this full time. It is very rewarding.

What are you most passionate about in your field and why?

Being the director is a constant reminder to me that God is purposeful in how He equips a person for a specific position. I do not see this position as “work” but just an outpouring of my heart because of the way God’s has wired me, equipped me and taught me. This position has clarified the reasoning behind why I had to go through certain situations (both good and challenging) in life, business, family, marriage and ministry -- it is for this time in my life to give to the students in the Barnabas Pastoral Program. 

What is a memorable moment you had in class, and what does that reveal about your teaching style?

I really enjoy working at GCU because of the students. I have so many great memories over the last seven years. The students at GCU are fun, engaging and want to learn. Each semester, I learn from the students. It is so encouraging to see the growth in students, not only throughout the semester but throughout their college years. 

I like to create a fun and energizing environment in the classroom because I believe that it helps in the learning process and in getting to know the students better. It means so much to me when I have students who come to me for advice, encouragement or direction. I find this to be one of the most fulfilling things about teaching.

What do you like to do for fun in your spare time?

I love to play golf! Besides golf, I have always been a basketball fan. If I am not working, you can find me doing one of three things: hanging out with my wife, playing golf or working out. 

What is something interesting about you that most people don't know?

I had a learning disability growing up. When I graduated from high school, I had a 10th grade reading level and my SAT score was 790 (total). The fact that I was able to achieve a doctoral degree makes me shake my head and just think of what people can do and accomplish if they just keep taking the next step and don’t let obstacles get in the way. So my heart is to encourage people to keep taking the next step!