Learning for Life, Transforming the World launched Sept. 16
The Campaign for Messiah University: Learning for Life, Transforming the World launched its public phase Sept. 16, 2021. This $75 million campaign seeks to propel Messiah toward its next stage of growth with a renewed emphasis on a high-quality, Christ-centered undergraduate education and an expanded focus on graduate and adult learning programs.
Why now?
Messiah College changed its name to Messiah University July 1, 2020, ushering in a new era, while remaining faithful to the mission it has always held.
“We view this campaign as a catalyst from Messiah College to Messiah University—which has become more of a comprehensive institution of higher education,” said Jon Stuckey, associate vice president for development. “President Kim Phipps has outlined a vision where Messiah no longer offers only traditional undergraduate degrees, but also graduate programs (including doctoral programs), programs for adult learners, degree completion, certifications and continuing education.”
Remaining faithful
What makes Messiah University unique is a rich blend of Christian faith and academic rigor, qualities that have remained steadfast during the institution’s history. This campaign extends that tradition, transforming Messiah of the past to Messiah of the future, while keeping Christ preeminent and remaining rooted in Christian faith.
“Christ Preeminent remains our motto. We honor Christ in all we do. It goes back to how we educate students to become more gracious and kind citizens who can work as reconcilers in the world,” said Stuckey. “We’re also fostering people of hope who leave here hopeful and not fearful about the future, not afraid of who their neighbor is or at least willing to have conversation with each other. We create an atmosphere of hospitality and conversation so you can have a debate with somebody. Those are learned skills we value here at Messiah. You can have difficult yet deeply meaningful conversations with those whose views and opinions differ from your own.”
How the campaign benefits students
To have those important conversations, students need a nurturing academic environment where they can thrive, which requires top-notch facilities. The campaign already has reached several milestone accomplishments, including the construction of the Ralph S. Larsen Finance Lab, the Charles F. Frey Commuter Lounge, Martin Dining Commons, the Falcon Fitness Center, Sawyer Gymnasium, Jordan Court in Hitchcock Arena, a new lacrosse field, the resurfacing of Anderson Field and, most recently, the new Kim S. Phipps Admissions and Welcome Center.
How Messiah alumni impact the world
Messiah also has increased scholarship endowment and direct aid resources for our students, paving the way for a Christian education that might not be attainable without financial help.
“You are not able to impact the world positively if you do not have access to the type of education Messiah offers,” said Stuckey, emphasizing the importance of Messiah graduates in today’s fractured world. “How our graduates are viewed in society is what affirms a Messiah University education. We hear from employers and community members how kind, ethical and thoughtful our students are. It’s how God has called us to be peacemakers in this world, reconciling, no matter what vocation the student has chosen.”
Where you can make an impact
The campaign encompasses several areas that support our vision for Messiah’s future, including The Messiah Fund and Scholarship Aid; Scholarship and Program Endowments; New Facilities; and Estate Planning Gifts.
At this stage of the campaign, we are particularly inviting alumni and friends to contribute to The Messiah Fund. This fund benefits all students—encompassing scholarship support, service/learning trips through the Agape Center, the Collaboratory, experiential learning opportunities and more. It’s where you can have the biggest impact regardless of the amount you are able to contribute.
“Your money goes right to the students. All students benefit from the Messiah Fund; it is vital to our ongoing efforts to keep Messiah affordable,” said Stuckey. “We need all alumni to participate in whatever level they can so that current students are able to experience the transformational experience that our alumni recall from their own time at Messiah. Our goal is to demonstrate again and again that investment in a Messiah education is worth it. Alumni can keep that within reach for anyone who feels called to come here.”