Richard Chiapperini
Military Veteran’s Life Experiences Lead Him to Major in History and Public Policy and to SWU
As a teenager, Richard “Chip” Chiapperini witnessed the monumental events of the 1980’s, including the Reagan presidency and the collapse of communism in Europe. After joining the army at age nineteen, he saw combat in the Persian Gulf War and attended the Fiftieth Anniversary Commemoration of D-Day in Normandy, France. These experiences and many others gave him a strong impression of the power and importance of history and the far-reaching effects that leaders and decision-makers can have on their own countries and even on the world. They also gave him a sense of calling to study and eventually teach history to secondary students.
Chiapperini served five years in the army total and then worked in the private sector for many years. He then decided to pursue his calling to study and teach history.
“There are two main reasons I decided to major in History and Public Policy,” says Chiapperini. “First, I love history and wish to teach it to the next generation. If some of my future students develop an interest in learning history through my lessons, that would be great. Secondly, by learning about public policy, I believe we can do a better job of recapturing the civic responsibility that our country had in previous generations.”
After much thought and prayer, Chip decided to pursue his study of history and public policy at Southern Wesleyan University. Once he started classes, he became convinced that he had made the right choice. “SWU's History and Public Policy program, along with the university as a whole, prioritizes your personal goals. Personal attention and smaller class sizes are there for you to develop critical thinking and a good understanding of what you are learning.”
To anyone considering majoring in History and Public Policy at SWU, Chip would highly recommend it. “I really believe that anyone who works hard and excels will be set up for a successful future in our field. As for me, I think that God gave me the ability to make the right choice. I hope that you are next in line.”