Grand Canyon University |
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| www.gcu.edu |
Local university is on the rise
Graduates of Grand Canyon University went out with a bang in commencement ceremonies highlighted by a pyrotechnic and laser show, streamers and confetti.
The university – and new Chamber premier member – has seen its own explosion of late, growing its enrollment nearly 40 percent this school year. The 59-year-old, private, nondenominational university now has nearly 15,000 students. About 12,500 pursue degrees online, while the remainder are learning in traditional classrooms or getting real-world experience at local hospitals, businesses and school districts. Two-thirds of the students are pursuing graduate degrees.
The heart of GCU’s mission is to provide tomorrow’s leaders a Christian-based foundation.
“Servant leadership encourages leaders to make the conscious decision to lead in order to better serve others rather than to increase their own power,” says Bill Jenkins, director of public relations and communications. The concept, which emphasizes collaboration, trust, empathy and the ethical use of power, was named and defined by author Robert Greenleaf in the early 70s, Jenkins adds.
At GCU, students are encouraged to balance academic studies with community service through the school year and on international summer missions.
Most of the students are enrolled in the university’s College of Education, with others learning in the Ken Blanchard College of Business, the College of Nursing & Health Services and the College of Liberal Arts.
“We offer a cutting-edge curriculum that prepares students for servant leadership in the 21st century, global context, with a core skills program required for all undergraduates that includes courses in global awareness and diversity, a world view of Christianity, and human perspectives,” Jenkins says.
At GCU’s commencement this spring, the school gave Brian and Jenny Masche of Lake Havasu City $1.2 million in scholarships and a 12-passenger van for their sextuplets, who were born last June. With six new freshmen already guaranteed for 2025, GCU looks forward to continued growth and success.
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Grand Canyon University
www.gcu.edu
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