Long before this cluster of buildings became one of the most recognizable skylines in the world, Biola had a special place in the city of Los Angeles.
It may be difficult to imagine now, but when the original 13-story Bible Institute of Los Angeles building was completed in 1914, it stood taller than all others in the city. Thousands of people came to attend its classes and church services, and tens of thousands came to Christ through its graduates, its publications and its Biola Hour radio show. For decades, its landmark rooftop neon “Jesus Saves” signs proclaimed a simple gospel message to millions.
Today, Biola may no longer be located within the heart of Los Angeles, but we still have plenty of love for our birthplace. Located just 20 miles from the university’s suburban La Mirada campus, the city still offers Biola students and graduates plenty of unique cultural, educational and ministry opportunities — and Biola still has plenty to offer the city.
As the university prepares to return to its roots in exciting new ways over the coming years, meet some of the Biolans who are serving, studying and shaping the City of Angels.
Steve Janney
(Janney & Janney Attorney Services)
When Steve Janney graduated from Biola with a degree in Christian education in 1980, he didn’t expect to join the family business. But when his father and brother, who weren’t Christians at the time, needed his help with their attorney service, Janney said, “I really felt that the message of the gospel couldn’t be, ‘I love you, you’re in trouble, but the church is more important.’”

Janney found that he enjoyed the work, and his initial one-year commitment became a career.
Since his father’s death 13 years ago, Janney and his brother, Doug, have shared oversight of five office locations in Los Angeles, Ventura, Costa Mesa, San Diego and t