From Geneva and Back Again

From Geneva and Back Again

With her cap, gown, and newly received Geneva diploma, Amy Spear ‘83 had dreams of becoming a librarian, marrying her fiancé Calvin, having a family, and serving the Lord.  Little did she know that as her older self, Amy Troup would come back to Geneva College as First Lady, wife of new President Dr. Calvin L. Troup.

Reminiscing, she remembers the joyous time she spent at Geneva.  Having come from a family that loves to sing, Amy joined The Genevans as a freshman and enjoyed the choir all four years.  Every year, she loved touring with the group, which quickly became one of the highlights of her time at Geneva.  During her junior year, she began dating that special young man who would someday become her husband.  In fellowship with others, they enjoyed open house moments together at his apartment in Young Hall.  In their day, before the current arrangement, open houses were less frequent and were always special occasions.

McCartney Library was where she worked and where she felt like she most belonged. “I love books and I love order – so, being a librarian is perfect for me,” Amy says. She went on to earn a Master’s degree in Library Science at the University of Maryland and worked for her local public library.  She was also a librarian at the Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary for many years.  After graduation, Amy and Calvin remained dedicated to the Geneva community, frequently attending Homecoming and other events.  

When they had children and they grew to college age, their four daughters all decided to attend Geneva.  Amy and Calvin’s close ties became even closer.  The two had fun listening to their four daughters in the Genevans, following the Golden Tornado football team, and attending various athletic events. 

As First Lady, Amy looks forward to continuing these traditions and having the opportunity to be involved with her husband’s ministry at Geneva.  Amy loves being around people and investing in their lives. If you have been around her at all, that is easy to see. The Lord has gifted her with the warmth of hospitality. She has already had the opportunity, on several occasions, to open their home to welcome guests to Geneva. Reflecting on her new role, Amy states, “Geneva is part of the fabric of who we are. We love it here so we are thrilled to be able to serve.  It is such a great privilege.” 

“We feel God’s call strongly upon us to be here, so we are counting on Him to equip us to do the work,” she adds, “It’s a big job, but it’s a really good job.” 

Amy could not be better equipped for the role. With four years of study at Geneva, four daughters who have studied here, and a consistent dedication to the campus, she has been able to experience the college from many perspectives. As a student, she knows the stress and the accomplishment of earning a degree; as a mother, she understands the joys and challenges that come with parenting a college student; and now, as the wife of the president, she believes in the mission and heart of Geneva more deeply than ever. With an abounding love for the Lord and a heart to serve, she is grateful for the opportunity to be back at Geneva again.

-Olivia Forton ‘19