Since being founded in 1864, Forman Christian College has impacted countless lives in Pakistan and beyond. Because an education opens new opportunities and lifts people out of poverty, FCCU’s impact ripples through multiple generations for families.
More Than Just an Alma Mater
Nowhere is this multi-generation impact seen more clearly than with Stephen John, whose family has been closely connected to the FCCU campus for four generations.
Stephen has served as Forman’s Deputy Manager for Admissions since 2006. In this role, he helps usher in new generations of Forman students to his alma mater.
“Forman has been more than just an alma mater—it has been the foundation of my life,” said Stephen. “For me, FCCU is not just a place I studied or work, but a community of growth, faith, and opportunity that has been part of my family’s story for generations.”
The Beginnings of a Family Legacy
Their family’s ties to Forman Christian College begin with his grandfather, Samuel Jacob. He served as a security guard on Forman’s campus for over 35 years, beginning a strong family legacy that endures to this day.
Samuel’s son, John Roshan, also worked at FCCU for several years—working as a chef from 2005-10 under Dr. Peter Armacost, the university’s first rector.
“I grew up in an environment where FCCU was ever-present,” said Stephen. “My family has a legacy of service at FCCU, so my connection with the institution began long before I was a student.”
The stories of his father and grandfather deeply influenced his perception of the college and what it stands for. He strove to embody these values of integrity, inclusiveness, and personal growth.
Growing a Career and Instilling Personal Values
As a student, Stephen experienced firsthand the college’s commitment to providing education and support to those who needed it. The financial aid he received allowed me to focus on my studies and opened doors to a future filled with possibilities.
The university not only instilled knowledge but also planted values of hard work, service, and compassion—seeds that have guided his through every phase of his life.
“Over the years, my love for FCC has only grown,” said Stephen. “I have been fortunate to serve this esteemed institution and had the honor of witnessing FCCU’s evolution as it continues to build futures and shape leaders.”
For nearly 20 years, Stephen has worked under three FCCU rectors—starting with Dr. Peter H. Armacost, then Dr. James Tebbe, and the current rector Dr. Jonathan Addleton. He’s been a part of shaping the legacy of FCCU, while adding his own distinct contributions to it’s future.
Looking Ahead to Future Generations
Speaking of the future, Stephen has directly contributed to that by leading both his sons to attend FCCU. His older son, Abraham, recently graduated from Forman with a bachelor’s degree in Business Management and was admitted to Westminister University in London for his graduate studies. Abraham’s younger brother, Abeshai, is currently a student at FCCU.
“What stands out most to me about FCCU is its unwavering commitment to its mission—creating a nurturing environment for students from all backgrounds to thrive,” said Stephen. “This is a place where students not only receive a world-class education but also develop a sense of purpose, community, and responsibility.”
For him, the campus chapel and its cross holds deep personal significance because it reminds Stephen of a place of reflection and prayer, a symbol of the values FCCU continues to uphold.
Stephen says that serving FCCU in admissions is a blessing and an honor he treasures. His journey with FCCU has been full of miracles, opportunities, and a sense of belonging that transcends mere employment.
“I have always felt that I am part of something much bigger—an institution that nurtures the heart and mind, preparing future generations for the challenges of tomorrow.”
For Stephen John and his family, Forman Christian College has been a place to learn, grow, and serve together. Four generations of this family has benefited from the institution and served the FCCU community in return. With any luck, this legacy will continue in their family for more generations to come.