Thoracic surgeon and Wheaton alumnus Dr. David Penner '51 relished lively debate and thoughtful deliberation. He loved to thrash out any and all issues, but especially those to which he could relate his personal Christian faith. And he firmly believed that the rigors of exposing one's position to challenge—whether in casual conversation or formal debate—would lead to a more examined, stronger faith and life.

At the dinner table or on family outings with his five children, Dr. Penner would frequently use reason and invigorating discussions to teach and to guide them. On a casual evening, he would often, with a twinkle in his eye, ask his children, "What controversial subject can we discuss tonight?" After his death in 1988, his family decided that establishing an annual debate series would be a meaningful way to honor his memory.

The Penner Debate at Wheaton College is a forum that allows speakers to tackle controversial ethical issues that have an impact on the Christian community, and in doing so perpetuates Dr. Penner's trademark concern that reflection on difficult issues should be encouraged rather than avoided. Using a point-counter-point format, which best represents Dr. Penner's style, the debates clarify and distill ethical themes and stances. Unexamined precept positions, blind spots, and hidden prejudices can be scrutinized and pruned.

The Penner Foundation sustains this legacy of intelligent, robust debate, which not only enriches the people privileged to attend the forums, but also strengthens the church and academia at large by contributing to Christian ethical thought and understanding.

The Foundation sees debate as a fundamental method to challenge, change, or reinforce convictions regarding ethical issues. We hope that these debates will spark continuing discussion in dorm rooms, classrooms, and churches about how one's faith is lived out for the glory of Christ and the advancement of His kingdom. Furthermore, the Foundation seeks to clarify ideologies from various perspectives by:

Biography of David Penner

Dr. David Penner was a man known for his curious mind and love of discussing controversial topics. He was an enthusiastic conversationalist who was not afraid of a challenge. Born and raised in Detroit, David Penner came to Wheaton College in the late 1940s, pursuing his studies and extracurricular activities, which included the pre-med club, band, track, and tennis. Dr. Penner returned to Michigan to earn his M.D. from Wayne State University. He met his future wife, Ruth, while in medical school. They married and started their family while he completed his general surgery residency. After serving in the U.S. Army two years in Germany, he completed a residency in cardiovascular and thoracic surgery at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. He then practiced

thoracic surgery in the Detroit area for 25 years and served on the staffs of several hospitals there. He was a highly respected lung specialist who appeared on television and radio talk shows to decry smoking in a culture and country not yet sensitive to the anti-smoking movement. His family most remembers his irrepressible sense of humor and love of stimulating discussion. In addition to being active in his church and various Christian youth organizations, he was an avid tennis player and musician. In 1988, at the age of 59, David Penner suffered a fatal heart attack. He left a loving family greatly influenced by his life of integrity: his wife, Ruth, who shared his vision and openness to people; Randy and Linda Penner Samelson '77; James '77 and Susan Penner Bowen '78; Jonathan and Terri Brown Penner '84; Michael and Ann Penner Usey '84; Andrew '91 and Kristine Penner Engel '91; and 20 grandchildren.