04 May Sharpening the saw: a way of life

Because Westview challenges the young men in our care to see growth as a life-long endeavor, it’s no surprise when team members practice what we preach. Eric Brandell, our Manager of Programs in Oklahoma, exemplifies that ongoing quest for personal growth that Stephen Covey calls “sharpening the saw.” Sharpening the saw can mean picking up a new skill, learning a new language, studying a subject that intrigues you, or earning a college degree.

Eric just completed a graduate degree at the Harding School of Theology (HST): a master’s degree in New Testament. Not only is he a Greek scholar,  the HST recently recognized Eric as their outstanding Hebrew scholar.  These studies empower Eric to better prepare programs for parents that connect solid theology and ethics with evidence-based parenting practices. His success makes him an outstanding role model for the young men at Westview, and we’re proud to have him on the Westview team!

Eric grew up in Duncan, Oklahoma, earned a BS in Accounting at Oklahoma State University, and had a business career with a large accounting firm. Because of his heart for people, Eric and his wife, Shawnda, served as missionaries in the Republic of Vanuatu for sixteen years. They grew a vibrant youth ministry there. Eric came to Westview in 2021 to manage our Oklahoma City office. To stay in touch with young people, he substitute teaches in a local school, works with his church’s youth group, and takes the young men from Westview to Burnt Cabin Christian Camp and on mountain climbing expeditions in Colorado.