United States: Seminary Professor Assaulted at Andrews University ... A student at Adventist-owned Andrews University threatened and assaulted Seminary professor Russell Burrill in his office at the Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary on campus. There was no weapon involved.  The student also assaulted a police officer and medic personnel. The student is in police custody, and has been dismissed from the university. The student’s name is not being released at this time. Burrill received medical attention, was released, and returned to the classroom that afternoon. Charges are being reviewed by the prosecutor’s office. [NAD Communication/ANN]

United States:  Adventist University Plans Transformation with Donation ... Andrews University, a Seventh-day Adventist institution of higher education in Berrien Spring, Michigan, announced April 12 plans to transform the campus through the use of funds from private donor. The gift of U.S. $8.5 million is the largest gift from a private donor in Andrews University history, said President Niels-Erik Andreasen. The donor has requested that the money be used to improve education and for the updating and construction of several buildings on campus.

“Andrews University is preparing to meet the educational challenges it faces in the 21st century, challenges of educational quality, values, diversity and a world perspective,” said Andreasen. “This latest major gift will give ... the university a significant push forward. We are deeply grateful for the support of these special Andrews friends and to God for His blessings.” [Bev Stout/Andrews University/ANN]

South Africa: Adventists, Jews Run Two Oceans ‘Friday Race’ Marathon ... More than 50 Seventh-day Adventists and Jews participated in the ‘Friday Race’ on April 6. The race, an alternative to the annual Two Oceans Marathon held in Cape Town, South Africa, has been offered ever since Adventist athlete Kevin Rochford in 1970 asked marathon organizers to hold a race for those who would rather not run on Sabbath for religious reasons. Minutes before the starting-gun was fired Friday morning, runners joined together for prayers from both Hebrew and Christian faiths. Adventist pastor, Dr. Eric Webster, who started his running career at the age of 60, has been organizing the Friday race for the past 18 years. “It is always inspiring to take part in this special Friday Race,” he says. “This is a wonderful way for Adventists to witness to their faith in Jesus Christ.” [Penny Brink/SID/ANN Staff]

Solomon Islands: Correction on Casualties ... Following a news story from the Seventh-day Adventist Church in the South Pacific, Adventist News Network reported that the church of the pastor and wife who were crushed to death in the earthquake on the island of Simbo was Adventist Solomon Islands: Three Adventists Among Those Killed by Tsunami. The church was the Uniting Church. Adventist News Network apologizes for this error. We continue to pray for all those affected by this disaster. For continuing updates please see the news site for the Adventist church in the South Pacific:

http://adventist.org.au/newsevents/south_pacific.<p>Reminder: The weekly “Ground 7 News”</b>  features Adventist News Network stories as well as commentaries from Adventist leaders. It is available free from iTunes and at <a href="http://www.ground7news.org/">www.ground7news.org