Your Impact

EVERYTHING BEGINS WITH FAITH, trusting a God who not only calls us to believe but to serve. Blue Mountain Christian University exists to nurture that calling, forming men and women whose lives are rooted in Scripture. At BMCU, learning is an act of discipleship, mentorship is a sacred trust, and preparation for ministry is woven into daily life.

One expression of this formation can be seen in the journey of Andrew Chesteen. Drawn to BMCU by its Biblical Studies program, Andrew discovered deeper roots for his calling through theological study, hands-on ministry, and close relationships with professors and campus leaders. Today he serves as pastor of First Baptist Church in New Albany, carrying forward a life of service shaped by his time on the Mountain. His story shows how faith faithfully nurtured becomes leadership that serves the Church and bears fruit for generations to come.

Equipping students to live as ambassadors of Christ. More than preparing students for careers, we help them see every person as created in the image of God and worthy of compassionate, faithful care. Through the new School of Nursing and the state-of-the-art Center for Grace & Healing, that vision comes to life as students learn to meet physical needs with clinical excellence and spiritual needs with prayer, presence, and truth. Graduates leave ready to minister wherever God calls them, whether across the region or around the world.

Emily Carr, RN, from the first graduating class of the School of Nursing, reflects this mission in her daily work. She shares, “Each time I walk into a shift, I pray the same prayer: to do no harm and to be a light. That light has opened the door to meaningful moments with patients and families—praying with them in crisis, singing Jesus Loves Me during an IV placement, and leaning into faith when medicine has done all it can.” Emily’s daily work reflects the heart of a BMCU nursing education: skilled hands, a steady spirit, and a willingness to be the light in moments of crisis.

A place where students are seen, supported, and known. At BMCU, faculty and staff invest personally in each student’s growth, creating a community that nurtures both academic skills and Christ-centered character. This environment guides students to serve others with confidence, compassion, and resilience.

Martha Abbigail Faith Jones (’24), known as Abbie, experienced this support firsthand. From the moment she stepped on campus, she felt at home, surrounded by mentors and friends who encouraged her faith and learning. Reflecting on her journey, she says, “Coming to Blue Mountain Christian University was a blessing from God! God has provided for me and answered my prayers in many ways. I am thankful for the relationships with friends and professors that I have made and will cherish for a lifetime.” We are proud of Abbie and pray for her continued success as she impacts young lives through teaching.

A commitment to accessible Christian education. The support of a caring community, combined with donor generosity, creates opportunities that extend well beyond the classroom. Scholarships remove financial barriers and allow students to pursue their calling with confidence rather than worry.

Recent graduate Laura Rakestraw is a powerful example of how scholarships make a lasting difference. After receiving the Academic Excellence Scholarship, she was surrounded by mentors and peers who encouraged her to pursue her passion for teaching and guided her through every challenge. Laura earned her bachelor’s degree in 2021 and her master’s in 2024, and today she is shaping young minds as a teacher at New Hope Elementary. She reflects that the scholarship allowed her to follow her calling without the stress of college costs, while also deepening her knowledge, strengthening her faith, and building the resilience needed to navigate every challenge in her career and life.

A purpose-driven environment. At Blue Mountain Christian University, students are not only equipped academically and spiritually, but they are immersed in a community where faith, perseverance, and teamwork come alive every day.

A perfect example of this comes from our Lady Toppers basketball team, who made history by capturing their first-ever Southern States Athletic Conference Championship with a thrilling 62-53 victory over the University of Mobile. Entering the tournament as the No. 8 seed, they defied expectations with resilience and determination, culminating in a spectacular fourth-quarter comeback. Each player contributed not only skill but heart, with teammates lifting one another up, trusting the process, and keeping their focus on honoring God. Head Coach Tracy Rice celebrated their grit and faith, saying, “This proves what a group of young ladies can accomplish when they put the team first and play to honor God.” For players, the championship was more than a win—it was a life-changing experience that reflected growth, perseverance, and the power of community. Moments like these show how BMCU is truly a place where faith, character, and lasting memories are formed.