Pressing On - Committed to Building Community

The distinctive experience of college students this semester is certainly not without challenges, but Grace Christian University continues to press on and choose faith over fear in the midst of this season. Grace's continual commitment to students includes "daily temperature checks, regular deep sanitization, barriers and seating distribution, protocols for food and beverage service, housing, and classroom attendance to give students the assurance that we care for them", says President Ken Kemper.

Kemper shares, "Students are absolutely thrilled to be on campus and in a safe learning community which includes adjusted class sizes and locations. The spiritual nature and instruction of our students is so much richer in-person for most of these young adults than is possible online. Student enthusiasm is strong and faculty and staff morale is high as we succeed in this challenging start to an important school year. We have so much for which to be thankful."

Athletic teams continue their pattern of success as a "new normal" exists for practices and games. Women's Volleyball coach, Kerri Shultz, shares her thoughts on this 'special season ahead' saying, "This season is going to be a little different with having to work around different restrictions. We, above all else, are grateful to be playing together, and I want that to fuel our passion for this season." Players Tori Johnston, Ashley Hoek, Megan Postma, Dani Tanner, Kenna Grant, and Abby Summerfield were instrumental in the 2020 season opener victories. Thankful to be together as a community, these athletes continue to press on.

Community is an essential part of our campus culture, and recent graduate Paige Emery has experienced this first-hand. Paige is a Grace employee, along with her husband Brock, and she is currently earning a second bachelor's degree in Grace's online program. As such, their impact on the community is incredible.

"I learned that community is present wherever you create it, no matter how big or small the space is. You cultivate community in the way you treat others and make time for them. God created us to be relational, and you cannot have community without authentic relationships. I 'cultivate community' where God has placed me by investing in the lives of those around me." Paige Emery, class of 2019.

On Campus courses continue to ensure students are engaged and have access to instruction with streaming and recordings should they find they are unable to engage in person. Chapel services take place in creative ways utilizing outdoor spaces and live streaming while the community continues to thrive. In this time, Grace Christian University continues to provide unique opportunities to support students in pursuing their passion and purpose.