Alumni Spotlight: Joni Mills

Sep 18, 2023 | Alumni

“…use any opportunity for His glory”

Joni Mills graduated from Grace in 1984 with a Bachelor of Religious Education. She now resides in Portage, Michigan with her husband, Dave. Joni and Dave have four adult children and two grandchildren.

Currently, Joni spends her time working at her small business, Beyond Imagining, and serving with the choir and praise team at her church, Calvary Bible Church in Kalamazoo.

Joni started Beyond Imagining 2.5 years ago, a small company featuring hand-painted home decor and DIY paint parties – based on Ephesians 3:20. She enjoys the opportunity she has to use art to teach and bless others through her business.

During her time at Grace, Joni was involved in volleyball, basketball, and orchestra for musical. She fondly remembers lots of fun moments on the basketball court with coach Steve Shadley. 

Joni remembers the impact that Grace had on her life as a place where she was able to not only further her Biblical and theological knowledge, but grow in seeing ALL of life as ministry, whether vocationally or non vocationally. She also fondly remembers the wonderful friendships and relationships she made with both students and staff.

She shares, “I am so very thankful for a variety of ‘careers’ since graduating from Grace: editor, middle school teacher, stay-at-home mom, college professor, receptionist, gifted programs paraprofessional, high school teacher, private tutor, and now owner/artist of my company. In all of these, the Lord has helped me have a Biblical worldview/perspective, and to try to use any opportunity for His glory!”

Thank you, Joni, for sharing your story!

 

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