Fresno Pacific University Invests in Students

As I near the end of my first year as president of this great institution, I am grateful to serve Fresno Pacific University. Amidst the challenges, I am hopeful. Many positive changes are contributing to our short- and long-term success. I would rather be at FPU than any other college in America. We are emerging stronger and more focused on mission.

I often say college is not primarily a financial investment (although it may feel that way), but a missional one. Mission is about teaching and learning, which happens primarily through relationship. It is embodied in faculty, staff and students. Mission is about who students become versus what they go on to do. As traditional undergraduate students transition to college and adults return, the temptation would be to focus on job outcomes, but more than job preparation makes college worthwhile!

Many students wrestle with, “Who am I?” “What is my purpose?” “Who do I want to become?” “Why am I in college?” and “What sort of world do I want to help create?” Fresno Pacific plays a unique role in enhancing students’ spiritual lives. Our esteemed faculty and caring staff create activities that develop the whole person. Indeed, one of our primary goals is to increase the flourishing of our students. 

Research shows that while in college, students become more caring, more tolerant, more connected with others and more engaged in the journey to know self and pursue truth. Spiritual growth (broadly defined) also enhances academic performance, psychological well-being, leadership development and satisfaction with college. 

Graduating students who can think critically, engage winsomely and live selflessly
as they meaningfully contribute to their community and society is a win both for students
and families.