Great Commission University (GCU) is strengthening the process by which it measures its operations and academics to ensure it remains faithful to its mission as an effective educational partner to the churches, fellowships, and ministries that participate in and support it.
Recently, the Assessment & Publications Committee met to focus on practical details vital to consistently implement the frequently reoccurring measures scheduled in its Assessment Plan. The committee-including the University’s President, Academic Dean, and Assessment Coordinator-met to break down the Assessment Plan, which was recently updated and approved by the Board of Trustees in August, into more practical, “rubber-hits-the-road” steps. These steps communicate details about the process including role responsibilities and essential coordination required between roles necessary for the process to be consistently completed in a timely manner.
Developing a Clear Path Forward
When these instruments, which measure mission critical components of the University, are completed promptly, they help University leadership make informed decisions regarding the use of its available spiritual, educational, physical, financial, and human resources. This, in turn, helps establish a strategic plan and vision with measurable goals to lead GCU with hope for the following academic year.
Vision for Growth and Improvement
While carrying out the Assessment Plan is essential for the University to remain compliant with TRACS standards and in ensuring it maintains its accredited status over time, the committee’s work carries a deeper significance.
Perhaps it is even more important to trust that God can use this assessment process, guided by the Living Word and His Holy Spirit, to more clearly reveal insufficiencies that are keeping the University from effectively carrying out its mission or where the University simply has room to improve the way it operates and understands the impact of its mission on His Kingdom. The hope is that this process can be one of self-reflection that supports GCU in revealing where it is lacking and needs to grow in order to continue to serve the global church in raising more Christ-like mission leaders.
We thank God for the partnership and the prayerful intercession of churches, fellowships, ministries, and leaders that have supported us as we strive for a greater impact for Christ’s kingdom.
