As the college landscape continues to change, some may not realize that both on-campus and online students have opportunities for rich, impactful educational experiences such as internships, practicums and even study abroad.
In just a few months, one Lancaster Bible College online Ministry Leadership student will pack her bags for the Lake Tahoe area of California after landing a practicum with the Tahoe Resident Leadership Program.
LBC offers its Ministry Leadership program in both on-campus and online settings, and both modalities help students pursue their passion for ministry in a variety of settings. This is certainly true for Jahiraliz Negron (’25), who will complete her practicum requirement for graduation across the country from LBC’s main campus and Negron’s Pennsylvania home.
Online Ministry Leadership student Jahiraliz Negron landed a summer practicum with the Tahoe Resident Leadership Program.
“The Tahoe Resident Leadership Program offers hands-on ministry experience in one of Northern California’s most beautiful settings, right within the warm community of Tahoe Forest Church,” Negron shared. “I’ll have the chance to work in youth ministry, worship leadership and evangelistic outreach, all under the guidance of a seasoned mentor. This immersive environment will expose me to a wide range of ministry opportunities and help me grow in various areas.”
A hope for every student within the Ministry Leadership program is that they would find a place where they can grow and develop their skills in real-world situations. For instance, the Tahoe leadership program will enable Negron to put into practice what she has learned at LBC as she continues to refine her ministry skills.
“This experience will deepen my spiritual maturity and strengthen my practical ministry skills,” she said. “Immersive activities and leadership development will build my confidence and self-reliance in ministry. One-on-one mentorship will provide valuable insights and guidance for handling diverse ministry challenges. The hands-on engagement in worship, evangelism and service projects will offer a well-rounded ministry experience.”
Located in Truckee, Calif., Tahoe Forest Church is situated on 52 acres bordering the pristine Truckee River. Set in an idyllic mountain location, the Tahoe Resident Leadership Program develops and guides aspiring Christian leaders through either a 10-week summer program or a 11-month residency program. Both provide participants like Negron with professional skills for planning, organizing and developing Christian ministries. These Resident Leaders experience a unique perspective into vocational ministry through leadership training and serving alongside pastors and ministry leaders.
After graduation, Negron plans to use her LBC education to serve others in her community and impact people with the gospel.
“My goal is to create communities where the gospel shapes every aspect of life,” she shared. “By integrating academic insights with practical ministry, I aim to empower others to live out their faith. I believe nurturing personal relationships is essential for effective ministry, and I want to help young people discover and pursue their God-given callings. I’m passionate about creating environments where youth feel supported and inspired to become lifelong ambassadors of Christ.”
Before discovering LBC’s online Ministry Leadership program, Negron might never have had this opportunity. But as LBC professors and staff members engage in relational education and help students not only uncover but expand their passions, they also help them pave the way to their future—wherever God calls them.
“This opportunity feels truly God-sent,” Negron said. “Encouraged by Professor Betty Bacon, I stepped out in faith and applied for this internship even though it’s far from home. The program’s focus on immersive experiences, personalized mentorship and leadership development aligns perfectly with my ministry goals. I’m incredibly grateful for the support from LBC and my mentors, and I’m excited for the transformative journey ahead – all for the glory of God.”