Following His Calling: Brendon Maness’ Journey of Faith and Service

For many students, the journey of finding a college is filled with uncertainty, but for Brendon Maness, a senior here at AU who is majoring in Homeland Security and Criminal Justice, the decision was shaped by one very clear calling. Born in Michigan and raised in Greenville, South Carolina, Brendon’s story is a testament to God’s timing and faithfulness.

From the moment he stepped onto the campus of Anderson University, he knew this was where he was meant to be. “I first came to AU with my sister, Katherine, who graduated from here with a nursing degree. I toured the campus with her, and it just felt right for me too,” Brendon shared. He also attended a BCM service during that visit, which only further affirmed that Anderson was the place where he could grow in his faith while also pursuing his academic and career goals. “It was the only school I applied to. The fact that I could see myself growing spiritually and academically here made my decision easy.”

For Brendon, choosing Anderson wasn’t just about finding a college that met his academic needs. He wanted a school that would pour into him, encourage him in his faith, and provide opportunities for him to live out his calling of service. “I’ve always known that I wanted to protect and serve people. That’s why I chose this major—Homeland Security and Criminal Justice. From a young age, I felt like God was calling me into this field, and I knew Anderson had a great program that would equip me for the future.”

Even though Brendon’s decision to pursue criminal justice wasn’t a sudden one, he admits that his path has had some twists and turns. “I’ve always had an interest in serving in this field, but I’ve gone back and forth between pursuing a career in criminal justice and going into the mission field,” he explained. Even today, he remains open to both possibilities. “I’m still not sure where God is leading me. But I think both fields have a lot of similarities if you’re approaching them with a heart of service for the Lord.”

As he reflects on his time at AU, Brendon gives huge thanks to his professors and mentors for helping him grow in both his professional and spiritual life. “Dr. Howard Murphy has had a huge influence on me. He helped me connect the dots between where I felt God was calling me and the lessons I was learning in class,” Brendon said. “He does such a great job of applying his Christian values to everything he teaches, and he is intentional about building strong relationships with his students that reflect Jesus’s heart. That’s really helped me understand how to integrate my faith with what I’m learning about criminal justice.”

One of the most valuable lessons Brendon has learned during his time at AU is the importance of God’s perfect timing. “I’ve learned that when things seem impossible or when I feel like I’m in a situation that I don’t understand, God is often working in those moments,” Brendon shared. “His timing is always perfect, and I’ve learned to trust that no matter what, He’s got a plan.”

Brendon’s commitment to serving others extends beyond his academic pursuits. He’s involved in various extracurricular activities, including kids’ ministry at local churches, small groups, and mission work. His time spent serving in missions has been one of the most rewarding aspects of his AU experience. “I’ve been passionate about international missions ever since I went to Honduras during my senior year of high school with my best friend, Clarke. We both fell in love with the country, and I’ve been going back every year since. Last summer, I even interned there, and it was one of the most impactful experiences of my life,” he shared.

In addition to his passion for missions, Brendon also enjoys a variety of hobbies, including fishing, woodworking, painting, and camping. “I love spending time outdoors, whether I’m fishing at Rocky River Nature Park or going on camping trips with friends. It’s a great way to recharge and connect with nature,” he said. He also enjoys cooking and listening to worship music, with bands like NEEDTOBREATHE and Benjamin William Hastings as some of his favorites. But despite his busy schedule, Brendon knows how to prioritize and balance his passions. “I try my best to prioritize things in my life that will glorify God and benefit me in the long run. School and friendships come first, but I also make sure to take time for myself and enjoy life outside of academics.”

One of Brendon’s favorite traditions at AU is Mrs. Whitaker’s Cookie Day, which he finds especially comforting during the stressful times of finals. “It’s such a sweet pick-me-up,” he said. “It shows how much the school and the staff care for us. It’s a simple gesture, but it means a lot, especially when you’re feeling overwhelmed.”

Despite the numerous activities he’s involved in, Brendon has learned the importance of being intentional with his time and relationships. “I want to spend as much quality time as I can with the people I’ve come to know during my time at AU. I want to make sure those relationships are strengthened for when we all go into the real world,” he said. “Whether it’s going on camping trips with my roommates or taking intentional time to talk with people, I’ve learned that relationships are key.”

Looking ahead to his final months at AU, Brendon is focused on leaving a lasting impact on the people around him. He plans to be intentional about making memories and deepening his connections with those who have made his college experience so meaningful. “I want to make the most of my last months here. It’s important to me that I invest as much as I can into the relationships that matter most,” he said. “And even though I’m not sure what comes after graduation yet, I know I’ll carry the lessons I’ve learned here with me for the rest of my life.”

When it comes to advice for incoming students, Brendon’s message is simple but powerful: “Don’t be afraid to meet new people and get involved. College is a time to grow and explore new opportunities, and you’ll never know what you might discover if you don’t step out of your comfort zone.”

Reflecting on his time at AU, Brendon sums up his experience as “Very challenging but so rewarding and formative in the best ways.” “It’s been a journey of growth,” he said. “I’ve been challenged academically, spiritually, and personally, but every challenge has made me a better person. And I’m incredibly grateful for the ways that the Lord has used AU to shape me into the man I am and who He is creating me to be.”

As he looks ahead to the future, Brendon is confident that Anderson University has prepared him for whatever path he chooses to take. “The Criminal Justice program has been incredible. It’s not just about learning the technical skills but also about understanding the heart of service and leadership. My professors have been amazing mentors, guiding me toward a career rooted in servanthood,” Brendon explained. “No matter where God leads me, I know that He will continue to show me how to serve and protect those around me.”

Brendon’s story is one of faith, service, and adventure. Through his time at AU, he has grown not only as a student but also as a person committed to serving God and others. As he prepares to take the next step in his journey, Brendon’s impact will undoubtedly continue to resonate with those who have been fortunate enough to walk alongside him at Anderson University.

In Brendon’s words, “Trust God’s plan and trust the process. He’s got something incredible in store for you.”