History

The Center for Research in Science (CRIS) was founded in 1998 as an academic unit of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at Azusa Pacific University. Upon its opening, CRIS functioned as a touchstone for both theologians and scientists.

In 2000, CRIS entered a formative stage under the directorship of Leslie Wickman, Ph.D. Dr. Wickman led CRIS in serving students, scholars, and laypersons by promoting scientific inquiry through research, supporting excellence in science education, and by encouraging the dialogue between faith and science. The Science and Faith lecture series featured numerous renowned Christian scientists, theologians and ministers. Not only did these lectures bring about meaningful discussions regarding science and faith, they were well-received by members of the community-at-large, near and far. In 2015, Dr. Wickman launched the Re-Imagine contest on the Azusa Pacific campus, raising awareness on environmental stewardship as well as bringing about innovation on sustainability.

Today, CRIS continues to serve as a manifold for the STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) students and faculty on campus as well as a liaison for STEM between Azusa Pacific and neighboring communities. Through which, fulfilling its role in learning, researching and promoting science.