Nathan Knottingham
Current Role
Chief Operations Officer at the Knowledge Coop
Major
Business Management/Communication, 2002
What’s one thing that surprised you about Corban?
I was surprised by the consistent application of Biblical principles through every aspect of the education. From music theory to micro economics, I was faced with the reality that Christian principles can, and should, be applied at all times in all ways.
What about Corban specifically prepared you for this next step in your journey?
The aspects of a liberal arts education prepared me the most for the journey my vocational life took. I started in college with a plan and then found that as I learned more through different classes, there was more in the world that interested me. I found a natural strength in business logic and a passion for public speaking and teaching. I do not currently work in a job that I ever thought would be possible, nor did I know it really was a job! But the flexibility learned in so many different courses prepared me for this.
What’s one thing you would want to tell someone starting their journey at Corban?
Be open and honest with yourself and listen carefully to God’s direction. You may have a plan that you want to follow, which is great; just be ready for change to happen at any time.
Who is one professor who had a strong influence on your development? Can you give an example?
Dr. Marty Trammell was one of the most influential professors for me during my time at Corban. He served as my advisor, became a friend (and even officiated my wedding), and through his dedication to his calling, he was so influential in helping me grow in maturity both in Christ and as a man following God.
How were faith, leadership, and ethics woven into your courses? How did those elements prepare you for life, regardless of where you work?
In “Horton Hears a Who,” we are told that “A person’s a person, no matter how small.” I think of that often when presented with questions about how you can be a Christian following Christ, exercising ethical decision-making, secure in faith, while facing an ever abrasive world that denies the truth of Christ. I think of that saying, but remember it as, “To be a Christian is a Christian, no matter how small.” No matter the role I’ve worked in or the company I’ve worked for, that has been my place to lead by example. I may not agree with the public statements or support that my company would show the world, but I feel called to minister to my coworkers and teams that I lead. They are my mission. And this behavior I learned while at Corban. The professors treat the students the same way; as a student, you are their mission. They lovingly lead through example, accountability, and with integrity.