At Andrews University School of Business Administration, students were granted an opportunity to delve into a fascinating intersection of business and spirituality. The FNCE 317 – Business Finance class had the honor of hosting Dr. Isaac Owusu Dankwa, the Associate Treasurer of West-Central Africa Division of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Organized by the class professor Dr. Williams Peprah, the session focused on “The Art of Making and Spending Money: The Role of the Church Treasurer.“
In the world of finance, the secular and the spiritual seldom merge. Yet, Dr. Dankwa’s role straddles both these realms. As the Associate Treasurer, he shoulders the mammoth responsibility of managing financial operations spanning 22 countries and several unions, making his insights invaluable for aspiring finance professionals.
During his enlightening session, Dr. Dankwa laid bare the complex layers of handling personal as opposed to business finances. He meticulously outlined the dichotomy between secular world principles and Christian views on business finance. By doing so, he didn’t just impart technical know-how but also infused ethics, values, and spiritual guidelines into the realm of finance.
Of significant note was his exposition on the financial workings within the church. One could palpably sense the intricate challenges Dr. Dankwa grapples with daily. In a globalized economy, currency disparities and fluctuating exchange rates are a universal challenge. Yet, imagine the complexity of allocating funds appropriately across 22 countries, each with its unique financial landscape. Dr. Dankwa emphasized the sheer scale of the task and the strategies employed to maintain equilibrium and fairness.
However, what resonated most profoundly with the students was the beautiful synergy he established between biblical teachings and financial principles. Drawing references from the scriptures, he cited the parable of the talents, an allegory on the virtues of resourcefulness and initiative. Through this, he painted a vivid image of how spirituality doesn’t stand at odds with wealth generation but instead guides it along ethical and righteous paths.
Dr. Dankwa’s presentation was not just a lecture—it was a masterclass that bridged the worlds of finance and faith. Students walked away with not only an enriched understanding of financial management but also an appreciation for the moral compass that should guide it.
In today’s era, where the quest for profits can sometimes overshadow values, Dr. Dankwa’s perspective is both refreshing and essential. It serves as a poignant reminder that the world of business finance, when navigated with integrity and faith, can be a force for global good.
