A Foundation Built on Christ: 95 Years of Gospel Faithfulness

By Dr. Nick Pacurari, Vice President for Enrollment Services & Student Life

When prospective students, families, or friends ask me what they can expect at Bryan College, I don’t start with our academics or campus amenities, though both are excellent. Our motto, “Christ Above All,” isn’t just words on a banner; it’s the beating heart of everything we do.

This reality was evident as we kicked off the year with our annual Renew Conference, reminding our campus of God’s continued faithfulness. We had the incredible privilege of hosting Pastor Rechab Gray and Demetrius Hicks from New Creation Church in Orlando, who led us in both the preaching and singing of God’s Word. What happened during those days was both beautiful and transformative. We watched students encounter Jesus, some for the very first time. There’s something deeply moving about seeing a young person grasp the reality that God loves them personally and completely. But just as meaningful were the students who had grown up hearing about Jesus but suddenly experienced Him in a new way. The Holy Spirit was clearly at work as students made genuine decisions to follow Christ. These weren’t manufactured moments — these were authentic encounters with the living God. Students made commitments that will shape the rest of their lives, and as faculty and staff, we were reminded of the sacred privilege we have to be part of God’s work in the hearts of the next generation.

This gospel focus continues in our chapel services throughout the semester. We’ve welcomed speakers and artists like Skye Peterson, Matt Papa, and Trip Lee, each bringing their unique gifts while maintaining a singular focus on exalting King Jesus. We intentionally seek speakers and artists who approach the gospel from different angles while holding fast to the same truth. Whether through Peterson’s thoughtful songwriting, Papa’s robust gospel-centered music, or Trip Lee’s passionate proclamation of the Word, our students experience the multifaceted beauty of Christ.

Here’s what sets Bryan apart: since 1930, we’ve remained faithful to one central truth — Christ is above all. While we’re encouraged by recent events that have caused people to reconsider faith and return to church after seasons away, our commitment to the gospel doesn’t shift with cultural trends. We don’t chase what’s popular or adjust our convictions to match the moment. Our foundation is built on something far more solid than cultural movements.

So to every prospective student and family reading this: when you step onto Bryan’s campus, expect to encounter the gospel in its fullness. Expect to be challenged, changed, and commissioned. As Colossians 3:1-4 reminds us, “Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God.” This isn’t merely our academic philosophy; it’s our lived experience.

You’ll find professors who don’t just teach their subjects but demonstrate how all truth flows from the God who is Truth himself. You’ll discover a community where intellectual rigor and spiritual fervor walk hand in hand. Most importantly, you’ll encounter a big Gospel, one that saves souls and transforms entire lives, reshapes worldviews, and sends graduates into every corner of society as ambassadors of Christ’s kingdom.

Bryan College exists because we believe Jesus Christ is Lord of all, over every academic discipline, every career path, every relationship, and every dream you carry. If you’re looking for an education that takes both your mind and your soul seriously, where the name of Jesus is not whispered but proclaimed with boldness and joy, then Bryan is where you belong.

Come and see what God is doing here. Come and be part of a story bigger than yourself, one that began in eternity past and will continue into eternity future, with Christ as both the author and perfecter of our faith.