Learning Communities
Starting a new school can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re just beginning college or finishing your degree as a transfer student, Warner Pacific believes a committed community will empower you to reach your goals.
Our Learning Communities are designed to make sure that each student has a smooth transition to college and is engaged academically, spiritually, and socially.
By developing authentic social support and strong study skills, we provide a greater sense of belonging which leads to increased academic success, deeper personal relationships, and the persistence to graduate.
Each new student is matched with a specially trained Peer Mentor who will help them navigate the resources and opportunities available on campus and in our community. For more information, contact Lael Easton at leaston@warnerpacific.edu or (503) 517-1107.
Peer Mentor Bios
Joel Gonzalez
I want to help students be confident and excited about their future/trajectory. I do this because I want to see us all succeed even though we may be up against the odds. I want to know about other people’s visions and dreams. For fun I like to play soccer and play the drums. Also, I love to take naps “in between” classes!
Chris Kanda
My name is Chris Kanda, and I am majoring in social work and criminal justice. I’m going to be graduating in 2028 with the goal of pursuing my master’s degree as well as doing minor things that will lead me to success. I chose to become a peer mentor because I love helping people and leading them to their own success. I like to share some of my knowledge with people and like working with people to solve problems and overcome challenges together. To rest and recharge, I like to go out and take a walk in nature. I also like being outside enjoying my hobbies such as playing my favorite sports or socializing with friends.
Kaitlyn Ndegwa
I am majoring in social work, and I will graduate in May of 2026. My goal after Warner is to attend graduate school and receive my master’s degree in social work. I wanted to become a peer mentor because I feel that my academic and personal growth here at Warner has helped me meet new people and make connections with my professors and classmates. Whenever I rest and recharge, I love to watch scary movies or order some Chick-fil-A to chow down on.
Abby Roth
I am a nursing major, and I will graduate in May 2026. After graduation, my goal is to work in an ICU. I wanted to become a peer mentor because I have been a transfer student and know how scary it can be to come to a new school. I wanted to be there for the new students at Warner Pacific. When it’s time to rest and recharge, I like to listen to music and hang out with friends
Craig Stephenson
I am majoring in sports management, and I will be graduating in 2028. I wanted to become a peer mentor to get experience in a mentor/leadership position. To rest and recharge, I like to golf and go fishing or just be outside.
NeaCoali Winston
My name is NeaCoali Winston, and I study sports management with a focus on coaching. I will be graduating in 2026, and I will then continue my baseball journey. I wanted to become a peer mentor to help others through challenges and motivate others. To recharge I like to fast and go on a run.
Director of Learning Communities
Lael Easton
My name is Lael Easton, and I am the Director of Learning Communities here at Warner Pacific University. I am very honored to welcome new students to WPU and help them make connections that will help them thrive. I love working with the Peer Mentors and seeing them grow as leaders while they help other students. When I’m not working, I enjoy camping, skiing, traveling, gardening, and hanging out with my family and pets.