In the ever-evolving landscape of higher education, where trends shift like the wind, institutions must adapt swiftly to remain meaningful and impactful. Crown College, located in rural Saint Bonifacius, Minnesota, finds itself not only navigating these trends but thriving amidst them.
Imagine stepping onto its campus, where every corner resonates with the hum of eager minds, and every hallway whispers the promise of transformative education. Here, against the backdrop of a changing world, Crown College is doubling down on being exactly who they say they are: a boldly Christian college invested in academic excellence and providing a lifelong authentic community for students, faculty, employees, and alumni.
Crown’s new president, Dr. Andrew Denton, who started in July 2021, affirms, “As a boldly Christian College, we have the unique ability to invest in the lives of our students through faith-integrated academics, modern in-person and online classrooms, and spiritual formation. I am confident this holistic approach to education allows Crown to stand out in a crowded educational industry.”
In the fall of 2023, Crown welcomed 555 students, growing from 450 students in 2019. Crown’s continued growth is a testament to the institution’s commitment to academic excellence, investment in their students, and extensive programs, including health and science degrees, business management, criminal justice, and so many more. And Crown is looking ahead, aiming to continue to grow while ensuring the college’s ability to continually accommodate and nurture its expanding community.
Part of that expanding community includes students from across the globe, enrolling students from Vietnam, Africa, China, and Central America. Crown also offers high school students opportunities through the Post-Secondary Enrollment Option (PSEO) and homeschool cooperatives, underscoring their commitment to investing in the next generation of students.
Recognizing shifting preferences towards online learning, Crown College not only offers on-campus programs on its 212-acre grounds but also offers online undergraduate and graduate programs, providing a genuine, practical approach to applying Christian perspectives to real-world vocational training. Dr. Dee McDonald, vice president of enrollment, underscores the pivotal role of education in shaping outcomes, instilling a sense of purpose, and nurturing the holistic development of individuals.
“Education is not just about acquiring knowledge; it’s about shaping character, fostering critical thinking, and preparing individuals to navigate the complexities of our world with resilience and purpose,” says Dr. McDonald.
At the heart of Crown College’s educational philosophy lies a strong commitment to holistic growth and lifelong learning. Dr. McDonald emphasizes the transformative power of a faith-integrated curriculum in cultivating not only academic prowess but also essential soft skills and personal spiritual formation. By fostering an environment of authentic community and connections that transcend the classroom, Crown College lays the foundation for lifelong relationships and personal growth.
The recent announcement of a major renovation project underscores Crown College’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence and student-centricity. With two generous contributions of $500,000 from anonymous donors, Crown College embarks on a transformative journey to revitalize its East Wing classrooms. This ambitious endeavor, slated for completion by August 2024, epitomizes the college’s dedication to providing state-of-the-art facilities that enhance the teaching and learning experience.
President Denton reaffirms Crown College’s commitment to academic excellence, citing the renovated classrooms as an important component to advance student and faculty achievement. The East Wing project, coupled with previous facility investments, including SPBI Hall, a new residence hall named after the college’s former name, Saint Paul Bible Institute, totaled $18 million over two years and showcases Crown College’s proactive approach to infrastructure development without raising tuition.
“These renovated classrooms will allow our students and faculty to engage with class content in new and innovative ways. Crown College is committed to academic excellence, and these significant donations and renovated classrooms will advance our ability to strengthen our student and faculty academic achievement,” says President Denton.
Charting a course as the Midwest’s boldly Christian College by providing a biblically based education for Christian leadership in the Christian and Missionary Alliance, the church-at-large, and the world, the vision for the institution is clear. Rooted in the belief that education transcends boundaries and empowers individuals to realize their full potential, Crown College is investing in its students and the future to shape generations of leaders, thinkers, and trailblazers poised to make a profound impact in the world.
Learn more: https://www.crown.edu/
This holistic approach to education allows Crown to stand out in a crowded educational industry.