Opening Doors to Purpose and Possibility. ACU DA LL A S
2026 Year in Review
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TABLE OF CONTENTS 3
Message from the CEO
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10-Year Recap
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Academic Excellence
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Meet Our Students
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Student Enrollment and Success
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Vocational Formation and Flourishing
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New Initiatives and Programs
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ARC and Study Abroad
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Corporate and Community Partnerships
Student Experience and Satisfaction Update ACU Dallas surveys students three times throughout the year to better understand the online student experience and identify opportunities for improvement. Results from the 2025-26 academic year reflect strong student satisfaction: Net Promoter Score (NPS) Summer 2025: +67 Fall 2025: +70 Spring 2026: +70 • 90% of students agreed that ACU provides a supportive environment for online learning. • 92% reported satisfaction with the academic quality of their program. • 92.7% of students expressed confidence in completing their online degree with ACU. • 93.1% reported satisfaction with their overall ACU online experience. The results and findings reaffirm ACU’s continued commitment to investing in student success. By pairing academic rigor with personalized support and valuedriven education, ACU provides students with an online learning experience that equips them to achieve their educational goals and lead with purpose in their careers and communities.
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A MESSAGE FROM OUR CEO There is something about a horizon. It always draws you forward. It always suggests there is more, more than you can see, more than you can measure, more than you can fully imagine. And if you step toward it, it stretches further still. That is the story of this university. When God led His people through the wilderness, He did not give them a map. He gave them His presence – a cloud by day, a fire by night. “He went before them,” Exodus says, “to guide them on their way.” Not once. Not occasionally. But continually. And that is how He has led ACU, across 120 years, across every moment of conviction and courage, every step taken toward a horizon bigger than any leader could see from where they stood. And 10 years ago, nearly 11 now, God stretched that horizon further still. Our online learning offering was born not from a strategic plan alone, but from a question: Who is not yet in the room? The answer was clear. Single mothers. Working parents. First-generation students carrying the weight of doubt alongside the weight of possibility. Students for whom a traditional campus was never going to be the door, but for whom the transformative power of an ACU education was no less deserved, no less needed. So we stepped into the water. We reached down, took up a stone and spoke words that carry more power than any enrollment figure or revenue projection: I believe in you. Those words, spoken by advisors, faculty and staff across every online classroom and every late-night phone call, are not incidental to our mission. They are the mission. Christian higher education at its truest is not merely the transfer of knowledge. It is the act of walking into the chaos of someone’s life, carrying the presence of God and saying: You belong here. You are good. In 10 years, ACU’s online programs have more than doubled the university’s enrollment and diversified the reach of its mission beyond what our founders could have envisioned. But the deeper story is not in the numbers. It is in the students. It is in the stones. God goes before us – cloud by day, fire by night – and the horizon keeps stretching. We set the stones. And we walk on.
Stephen Johnson (‘90), Th.D. Chief Executive Officer, ACU Dallas
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CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF ACU DALLAS
Over the last decade, ACU Dallas has transformed the online learning experience by offering flexible undergraduate and graduate programs designed for busy adults balancing careers, family responsibilities and personal commitments. Through its commitment to innovation, the university has created opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds and industries to pursue their education without relocating or putting their lives on hold. On October 27-29, 2025, ACU Dallas faculty and staff came together for a 10th anniversary celebration. The three-day event was held at the Renaissance Hotel in Addison, Texas. It provided a time to connect, reflect and celebrate the dedication that has shaped meaningful online learning experiences for students. The gathering also provided opportunities for faculty and staff to build relationships beyond their immediate teams through shared experiences, networking opportunities and collaborative activities. These interactions fostered stronger connections across the organization, encouraged knowledge sharing and reinforced a culture of teamwork that supports the institution’s continued growth and success.
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On the final day of the celebration, employees gathered for a time of worship led by a local gospel ensemble, whose inspiring musical performances created a meaningful, uplifting experience for attendees. Dr. Christopher Cobbler, vice president of vocational formation and flourishing, brought a message of supporting and uplifting one another. Next, Dr. Phil Schubert (‘91), president, reflected on the vision that led to ACU’s online programs being catalysts for expanding the university’s mission, making Christ-centered education more accessible to students in diverse communities and stages of life. As the day’s celebration continued, Dr. Stephen Johnson (‘90), chief executive officer of ACU Dallas, delivered an inspiring message titled “We Set the Stones,” sharing his vision to impact communities through higher education, service and purposeful connection. During the luncheon that followed, faculty and staff heard testimonies from three graduates whose stories reflected the transformative impact of higher education. Each graduate shared a personal journey marked by perseverance, describing the challenges they navigated while pursuing their degrees, including family responsibilities, health struggles, addiction recovery and other significant life circumstances. Their experiences served as powerful reminders of how Christ-centered education can foster academic and professional growth and empower individuals to pursue their calling.
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ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE College Heart of Service Awards
Teacher of the Year Dr. Kristin Koetting “KK” O’Byrne, college associate professor of organizational leadership, was named the 2025 ACU Online Teacher of the Year in recognition of her O’Byrne commitment to student success, positive leadership and love for teaching. Known to students and peers as “Dr. KK,” she uses her abilities to foster relationships and encourage students to succeed online. Her teaching philosophy is deeply rooted in positive psychology, a field she became interested in after experiencing unhealthy leadership firsthand. Motivated by her desire to promote positive leadership in educational and organizational settings, O’Byrne developed the positive leadership concentration alongside peer Dr. Heather Rasmussen, college associate professor of organizational leadership.
College of Health and Human Services – Dr. Jeremy Pierce, Master of marriage and family therapy College of Leadership and Professional Studies – Nate Reiser, B.S. in Christian ministry and spiritual formation College of Learning and Development – Dr. Sara Bengsch, B.S. in psychology
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Reiser
College of Leadership and Professional Studies – Audrey Lamborn, B.S. in organizational communication and B.S. in organizational leadership College of Learning and Development – Dr. Andy Garcia, Ed.D. in educational leadership
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Garcia
Faculty Council Collegiality Award
Adjunct Teacher of the Year
Pierce
College of Health and Human Services – Drew Davis, B.S. in child and family services
Bengsch
Dr. Bill Hunt received the Faculty Council Collegiality Award, a peer-nominated honor recognizing faculty who exemplify exceptional collegiality, service Hunt and commitment to the university. A college associate professor and senior associate program director for the Ed.D. in organizational leadership program, Hunt is known for fostering collaboration, empathy and meaningful faculty development. This recognition reflects his consistent dedication to serving colleagues, contributing to shared goals and strengthening the culture of excellence and community at ACU Dallas.
Other Faculty and Staff Accomplishments Dr. Jennifer Butcher, vice provost for research, writing and special initiatives, received the 2025 Researcher of the Year Award from the Texas Council of Professors Butcher of Educational Administration. A nationally recognized scholar in educational leadership and inclusive excellence, Butcher’s research and publications continue to shape educational practice, leadership development and student success.
Ammirati
Shelby
O’Byrne
NATIONAL RECOGNITION Newsweek America’s Top Online Colleges ACU was named one of America’s Top Online Colleges by Newsweek for the fifth consecutive year. U.S. News & World Report Best Online Bachelor’s in Business For the fourth consecutive year, ACU’s online B.S. in business management program was recognized among the nation’s best by U.S. News & World Report. The Princeton Review ACU’s online Ed.D. in organizational leadership program earned recognition e D 2026 n o o c to r o f E d u c a ti from The Princeton Review, reinforcing the program’s reputation for academic excellence, student engagement and leadership development. n li n
Rutt
Steven Rutt, chief revenue officer, presented at the 2025 American Marketing Association Symposium for the Marketing of Higher Education in Washington, D.C., on the topic of “Leading AI Change.” His session discussed how
Rasmussen
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Stacie Shelby, senior director of inbound marketing, and Marah Studniski, associate director of marketing technology, presented at the 2026 Engage Summit in Charlotte, North Carolina, where they explored the evolving role of AI in marketing. Their session, “Practical AI for Marketing Teams: Real Use Cases You Can Apply Today,” provided practical strategies for leveraging AI to improve efficiency and reclaim time for higher-impact work.
Rasmussen and O’Byrne presented alongside Positive Leadership Research Fellows Dionne Johnson, Arturo Lopez, Jennifer Meredith and Kayla Waggoner at the 2026 Western Positive Psychology Association Conference in Claremont, California. Their presentation explored the role of hope in leadership, organizational culture and employee retention.
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Julie Johnson Archer (’19), director of ACU’s Online Writing Center, and Emmy Ammirati, assistant director, presented at the 2026 Online Writing Centers Association Conference, sharing their session, “Practical Strategies for Accessibility in Asynchronous Tutoring.” Their presentation explored approaches for creating more accessible and inclusive online learning support services.
Dr. Sara Salkil (’06), senior program director and college associate professor of marriage and family therapy, received the Research Catalyst Award from the ACU Office of Research and Special Salkil Programs. Salkil plans to use the grant funding from the award to provide instructional materials for students. The research will examine the effectiveness of applying emotionally focused therapy techniques.
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Dr. Jewel Hale (’25), graduate admissions advisor, represented ACU at the Black Literacy Matters Conference, the Texas Alliance of Black School Educators Conference and the Academy of Human Hale Resource Development International Research Conference. Drawing from his own personal experience overcoming dyslexia, Hale’s work contributes to important conversations surrounding equity, learning differences and adult learner success.
institutions can leverage AI to upskill their marketing and enrollment teams, showcasing ACU’s own experience with AI integration.
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Dr. Kimberly McLeod, professor in the College of Learning and Development, was elected president of the National Alliance of Black School Educators (NABSE), one of the nation’s leading McLeod organizations dedicated to advancing educational excellence and equity for Black students. As president of the NABSE, McLeod will help guide national conversations around student achievement, educator development and educational opportunity.
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MEET OUR STUDENTS Josiah Ward, Master of Healthcare Administration Josiah Ward has spent his life serving others. As an Air Force veteran and practicing pediatrician, his career has been shaped by compassion and a commitment to improving the lives of those around him. After years Ward of working in healthcare, Ward realized he wanted to expand his impact beyond direct patient care and pursue a larger leadership role within the healthcare industry. That desire led him to pursue ACU’s online Master of Healthcare Administration. Ward wanted a program that aligned with both his career goals and personal values. ACU’s faith-based environment and online format allowed him to have both and still work as a pediatrician and raise his family. Throughout his academic journey, Ward has developed his skills in leadership, healthcare systems and organizational management to ready himself for advanced leadership roles.
Datril Anderson, Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration Datril Anderson (’24) has had a journey of resilience, determination and personal growth. As a wife, mother of two sons and healthcare professional with 25 years of experience, she understands the importance of balancing family, career and education. Currently working in the transplant department at Houston Methodist Hospital, Anderson has dedicated her career to helping others. At 50 years old, she made the courageous decision to return to school and pursue higher education through ACU. What began as a search for nursing programs became a life-changing opportunity after an admissions advisor introduced her to the online B.S. in healthcare administration program. That initial conversation inspired her to take a leap of faith and begin a new academic journey rooted in purpose and growth. Through ACU, Anderson found a supportive learning environment grounded in Christian values, encouragement and meaningful relationships. The ability to balance work, family and school allowed her to continue supporting her loved ones while investing in her future. Anderson continues her educational journey by pursuing her Master of Healthcare Administration degree through ACU. Motivated by her desire to grow professionally and uplift others, she hopes to advance within the transplant department while mentoring those around her.
His experience in the military has shaped his approach to leadership and patient care, while his time at ACU has prepared him to think more broadly about improving healthcare systems and supporting communities on a larger scale.
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Jennifer White, Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership As a doctoral candidate in ACU’s online Ed.D. in organizational leadership program, Jennifer White exemplifies a commitment to leadership development, educational excellence and service to others. Her White journey through education began uniquely. As a young mother, she balanced raising her children with working toward her academic goals. She started college in her mid-20s and later earned a bachelor’s degree in health promotion from East Texas A&M and a Master of Public Administration from Texas A&M. Throughout her doctoral program, White has worked to develop her skills and knowledge needed to make a meaningful impact in education and beyond. She is passionate about helping others grow academically and personally, and hopes to become a professor who encourages students to lead with integrity and confidence. White credits much of her success to her faith and the support system around her, including her family, professors and supervisors. Her hard work and determination earned her the Joseph E. Pryor Fellowship from the Alpha Chi Honor Society, a national recognition awarded to graduate students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and leadership potential. She described receiving the award as both humbling and overwhelming, viewing it as an opportunity God placed before her rather than an achievement earned through her own efforts.
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Tyler Stanley, Master of Business Administration Tyler Stanley’s pursuit of a Master of Business Administration reflects both determination and a commitment to professional growth. After discovering ACU through the All Campus program, he found a pathway that aligned with his career goals and schedule. While working full-time as a patient registration representative in the emergency department at UC Health in Cincinnati, Ohio, he leveraged his experience in healthcare administration to pursue a concentration in business analytics, positioning himself for future leadership opportunities. Stanley embraced his online program head-on, whether through collaboration with classmates, engaging discussions with professors or applying lessons learned in real-world situations. A class that impacted him the most was his leadership course. He shared that the course greatly changed the way he viewed leadership and how decision-making shapes patient care. What makes Stanley’s journey inspiring is his commitment to becoming the best version of himself. He understands that growth takes time, patience and consistency, and he continues working toward his goals with focus and determination. His journey is proof that meaningful progress often begins with the decision to keep moving forward. 9
STUDENT ENROLLMENT
Total university enrollment surpassed 7,000 students this year, marking the eighth consecutive year of record enrollment growth and reflecting continued demand for ACU’s educational offerings. One of the most significant indicators of this achievement is the continued growth of the university’s online programs, which now serve nearly the same number of students as the residential campus. With 3,599 students enrolled in online programs and 3,675 students on the Abilene campus, online enrollment has become a defining part of the university’s growth and impact. This milestone reflects the growing demand for flexible, high-quality education. It highlights ACU’s ability to offer both online and on-campus programs while maintaining a strong commitment to academic excellence, student success and spiritual formation.
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STUDENT SUCCESS Serving Those Who Serve
ACU has expanded support for military-affiliated students through the Student Veterans of America chapter. The organization serves as a hub for veterans, active-duty service members, spouses and dependents to connect, forge relationships and support one another throughout their educational journey.
Supporting Neurodivergent Students
The Neurodiverse Student Support Group (NSSG) was established through a collaboration between Student Wellness and Student Engagement, providing a supportive community for neurodivergent students pursuing an online education. Through monthly virtual gatherings and peer-to-peer engagement, the group helps students build connections, share resources and navigate their online learning experiences together.
Local Resources Through Single Stop
Student well-being remains a cornerstone of ACU, as we recognize that academic success is deeply intertwined with personal and financial stability. To address this, ACU added a new student wellness resource called Single Stop. This comprehensive resource hub is designed to help students navigate challenges that might otherwise impede their education. Through Single Stop, students gain free, confidential access to a variety of local services, including housing assistance, childcare support, transportation and mental health services. By providing these vital connections, ACU ensures that students have the support and resources needed to overcome financial, personal and wellness-related challenges that can impact their academic success.
Expanding Career Services With 12twenty
The 12twenty platform connects students with career resources, potential employment opportunities and networking tools. With access to job postings, employer connections and career planning, the platform helps students translate their educational goals into successful career outcomes. Together, these achievements reflect ACU’s commitment to student success beyond the classroom. By investing in student engagement, wellness support and career resources, the university continues to create an environment where students are empowered to thrive academically, professionally and personally.
Affordability and Access
Affordability remains one of the greatest barriers for working adults seeking to advance their education. Recognizing that the cost of attendance is a primary factor in enrollment decisions, ACU is committed to expanding access through strategic financial support. During the past year, ACU Dallas awarded more than $3 million in scholarships, discounts and grants to help reduce financial barriers and promote student persistence. This included the Trailblazer Scholarship, which recognized 40 students for exemplary character and academic commitment through faculty and staff nominations, and the Finish Line Scholarship, which enabled 44 students in their final semester who demonstrated financial need and satisfactory academic progress to complete their degrees on schedule. These targeted investments reflect ACU’s commitment to increasing educational access while improving student retention and graduation outcomes.
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VOCATIONAL FORMATION AND FLOURISHING
At ACU Dallas, fostering a culture where faculty and staff feel valued, supported and heard remains the focal point of the university’s commitment to flourishing. Over the past year, leaders have worked to establish a framework for what flourishing means and how ACU can care for its employees to support their professional, personal and spiritual well-being. Measuring Flourishing and Belonging
As part of ACU Dallas’ ongoing Voice of the Campus survey process, faculty and staff shared feedback that continues to shape institutional priorities and future initiatives. The most recent survey focused on measuring flourishing and belonging across the organization. In partnership with Dr. Kristin Koetting “KK” O’Byrne and Dr. Heather Rasmussen, college associate professors of organizational leadership, ACU Dallas developed a framework and assessment model to measure and retrieve data from faculty and staff within the organization. The results led to the creation of a recommendation committee to address themes identified by employees, such as compensation, workload and workplace communication. These initiatives are part of a broader commitment to reinforcing our employee feedback structures, creating vital places that elevate voices and nurture environments where people can flourish and belong.
ACU Dallas Staff Council
One of the major developments this past year was the launch of the ACU Dallas Staff Council, which gave formal representation to staff members. ACU Dallas developed council bylaws and conducted its first election, creating a representative body that serves as a bridge between employees and university leadership. The council provides a dedicated forum for staff members to share ideas, offer feedback and contribute to conversations that shape the employee experience.
Employee Flourishing Communities
In response to employee feedback from the Voice of the Campus survey, ACU Dallas has created more pathways for connection among staff and faculty with Employee Flourishing Communities. These communities create opportunities for employees to gather and share 12
their interests, life experiences and professional goals. While the Minority Employee Resource Group (MERG) has long provided a space for support, connection and advocacy, several additional communities were introduced for employees to engage with shared interests and experiences. These groups include: Mothers of ACU: Supports mothers balancing work and family responsibilities, offering the opportunity to connect to share experiences, challenges and resources in a judgment-free environment. Flourish in the Word: Exists to nurture a Christ-centered community where employees can grow deeper in faith, find spiritual rest and renewal, and seek wisdom for everyday life and work through the study of God’s Word. Employees gather not just to read – but to be transformed by Scripture, to encourage one another and to walk boldly in God’s calling. Agape Community: Exists to help employees grow in their understanding and experience of God’s love. This group creates space for members to deepen their awareness of God’s love and to encourage one another to extend that love to others. Miracles and Miles: Creates an encouraging environment that helps employees build healthy habits and meaningful connections. For seasoned runners or those just getting started walking, this group welcomes all fitness levels and focuses on cultivating consistency, wellness and community through shared movement and support. The Mustard Seed Collective: Cultivates a community rooted in Christian stewardship through the shared work of gardening. As employees care for plants, soil and place, they grow together in spiritual well-being, deepen their connection to Creation and experience a restorative rhythm within the workday.
Understanding that flourishing also requires healthy workplace practices, ACU conducted listening tours to strengthen communication between employees and supervisors, reinforcing the connection between performance management, professional growth and employee well-being.
Vocational Formation
Another important milestone was the continued expansion of vocational formation initiatives, marked by the launch of the vocational formation online platform. The platform
provides employees and students with resources, guided conversations and opportunities to reflect on their personal calling, professional purpose and contribution to ACU’s mission. In addition, the Employee Full Day Retreat, offered twice annually, was hosted entirely on the vocational formation platform, creating a digital space for employees to engage with communal spiritual formation. The retreat achieved an 81% engagement rate, with 61% of participants contributing meaningful reflections, demonstrating the platform’s growing role in shaping spiritual care online. Join the community at vocationalformation.com.
EMPLOYEE
RECOGNITION Outstanding Staff Member of the Year
Adam Aguilar, senior education technologist, was honored with the Outstanding Staff Member of the Year Award. This award recognizes a staff member who consistently demonstrates Aguilar exceptional service, professionalism and dedication to ACU’s mission. Aguilar is the first recipient of this award and is known for his positive impact on colleagues, students and the university community through his commitment to excellence and servant leadership.
Phenomenal Woman of the Year
Dr. LaShae Grottis (‘24) received the Phenomenal Woman of ACU Dallas Award, which recognizes exceptional leadership, service and commitment to the university community. Nominated Grottis by peers, she was honored for her thoughtful leadership, dedication to elevating staff voices and efforts to foster belonging across ACU Dallas. Through her work as the inaugural Staff Council chair and leadership in MERG, Grottis continues to make a meaningful impact on the university’s culture and community.
Core Value Awards
Dr. LaShae Grottis (‘24), student engagement manager, Dr. Kipi Fleming (‘85), college professor and program director, conflict management & organizational leadership, Dawn Parker (‘23), campus operations manager and Dr. Erica Whiddon (‘24), senior manager of enrollment and partnerships training, were recognized this past year as Core Value Award recipients for consistently exemplifying ACU’s mission through their leadership, service and daily contributions. These individuals demonstrate a commitment to excellence, integrity and community, and their work continues to positively impact the university, students, colleagues and the broader ACU community.
Fleming
Parker
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NEW INITIATIVES AND PROGRAMS New Program Highlights
During the 2025-26 academic year, the ACU Dallas faculty and staff partnered with colleagues in the College of Health and Behavioral Services in Abilene to launch several residential programs in an online modality. This process of collaborative governance and integrated operations creates and strengthens academic opportunities for careerfocused professionals through innovative online programs and initiatives. Rooted in academic excellence and Christcentered purpose, these new programs reflect the university’s ongoing commitment to creating accessible pathways that prepare students to lead and serve in meaningful ways. Online Master of Science in Speech Language-Pathology ACU Dallas also expanded healthcare opportunities by launching an online option of the M.S. in speechlanguage pathology. Developed to reach a nontraditional student base and address the growing demand for speech-language pathologists nationwide, the program blends rigorous academic preparation with hands-on clinical experiences. Students gain the knowledge and practical skills needed to assess, diagnose and treat communication disorders across a variety of healthcare and educational settings. To accommodate the modern adult learner, the program offers both a two-year full-time track (24 months) and a three-year part-time track (36 months), each comprising 52 credit hours.
Online Bachelor of Science in Social Work Among the newest additions to the online program offering is the B.S. in social work, a program designed to prepare students for careers centered on advocacy, service and community impact. Grounded in social justice, ethical practice and human development, the program equips students to support individuals, families and communities facing complex challenges. The new online modality for this established degree program reflects ACU’s commitment to preparing compassionate professionals who are called to create positive change through service and leadership.
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Program Updates for Graduate Students Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies in School Psychology This new post-master’s graduate certificate in school psychology is tailored for experienced educators and professionals seeking licensure as a school psychologist. This one-of-a-kind certificate is designed as a retraining model that allows current educators to expand their knowledge and skills through coursework and field residency, enabling them to apply for licensure with the Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists.
Empowering Future Educators through Certification
Innovation also remains a priority within educator preparation. Through a partnership with the Texas Institute for Teacher Education, ACU Dallas is reimagining pathways into the teaching profession by creating flexible certification opportunities for aspiring educators. This model supports students pursuing the B.S. in education studies with teacher certification and the M.Ed. in instruction and learning with teacher certification. These programs provide a streamlined pathway for individuals seeking to enter the classroom while combining strong academic preparation with practical teaching experience.
Embedded Dissertation and Sports Leadership Concentration The Ed.D. in organizational leadership now features an embedded dissertation model that allows students to integrate research throughout their coursework, helping them complete their degree more efficiently. The program also has a new concentration in sports leadership, preparing professionals to lead athletic organizations, teams and sports-related initiatives through strategic leadership, organizational development and effective communication. Graduates of the online Master of Science in sports leadership can apply 12 hours of advanced standing to reduce the credits needed to complete the doctoral program. Conflict Coaching The M.A. in conflict management has also expanded to include a new concentration in conflict coaching. Designed for professionals working in organizational, nonprofit and community settings, the concentration equips students with advanced coaching and conflict resolution skills to help individuals and teams navigate challenges, strengthen communication and build healthier workplace cultures.
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APPLIED RESEARCH CENTER AND STUDY ABROAD Launch of the ACU Dallas Applied Research Center
Last June, ACU Dallas launched the Applied Research Center (ARC), a hub where faculty, students and external groups can work together to address real-world challenges through applied research initiatives. Inspired by the biblical story of Noah’s ark (Genesis 6:14–22), the ARC symbolizes preservation, renewal and hope. In this spirit, the center acts as a sanctuary for ideas, fostering resilience, innovation and forward-thinking solutions in an ever-changing world. Through intentional collaboration among faculty, students and community partners, ARC seeks to bridge academic inquiry with practical application. The ARC provides a wide range of services and opportunities, including: • Research education, workshops and training opportunities for students and faculty • Seed grants funding for faculty research initiatives • Guidance in identifying and pursuing external grant funding • Student fellowships and mentorship opportunities at all academic levels • Annual research conferences and publication opportunities • Faculty and student recognition through research excellence awards • Community-based research partnerships that address shared societal challenges The ARC represents a major milestone for ACU Dallas. It reinforces the university’s commitment to faith-driven scholarship, collaborative innovation and research that creates meaningful impact within communities and across disciplines. For more information, visit acu.edu/arc.
ARC Collectives
One of the defining features of the Applied Research Center is the development of ARC Collectives. These collectives are collaborative research groups organized around shared themes, interests and societal needs. By bringing together faculty experts, graduate students, practitioners and community stakeholders, the collectives encourage interdisciplinary dialogue and promote research that extends beyond traditional academic boundaries. Multiple ARC collectives launched over the past year on the topics of oncology research, positive leadership, and AI and emerging technologies. 16
Faculty Seed Grant Recipients
The ARC’s Faculty Seed Grant initiative reflects a commitment to cultivating innovative scholarship and supporting faculty research that has the potential for longterm impact. Open to all current full-time faculty, this highly competitive grant program provides financial support for preliminary research and other preparatory activities that position faculty to pursue external funding opportunities. In August 2025, the ARC recognized its inaugural Faculty Seed Grant recipients, whose projects demonstrate creativity, innovation, and meaningful potential for impact. Dr. Sandra Cleveland, college Cleveland associate professor and program director for the Master of Science in nursing program was awarded funding for her proposal, Reimagining Research Training: Designing an AI-Enhanced, Equity-Centered Fellows Program to McLeod Transform Education Research, which seeks to explore transformative approaches to education research through artificial intelligence and equity-focused practices. Dr. Kimberly McLeod, college professor of educational leadership, received funding for her proposal, Digital Reflection for Leadership and Community Wellness: A Pilot Study, which examines the intersection of reflective digital practices, leadership development and community well-being. These inaugural awards highlight the ARC’s mission to advance impactful, community-centered research while empowering faculty scholars to pursue innovative solutions to contemporary challenges.
Excellence in Research Award Winners
The Excellence in Research Awards were established by the ARC to recognize ACU Dallas faculty and students who have demonstrated exemplary performance in conducting research that makes a meaningful contribution to their respective fields. Excellence in Research Award Winner (Faculty) Dr. Kristin Koetting “KK” O’Byrne, college associate professor of organizational leadership, was recognized for her outstanding contributions to the field of positive O’Byrne leadership. Her research has influenced professional practice, pedagogy and policy. As both a respected scholar and mentor, O’Byrne has contributed original research while also guiding students in developing their own scholarly and professional impact. Excellence in Research Award Winner (Student) Dr. Mandy Morrison (‘25), a graduate of the Ed.D. in organizational leadership program, was recognized for her dissertation research titled “Leading Beyond the Lecture: A Case Morrison Study Exploring How Community
College Students Experience Their Instructors’ Positive Leadership Strategies.” Morrison’s work contributes to the field of higher education by expanding the understanding of how positive leadership practices influence student experiences and academic success.
Community-based Research Projects
An ACU Dallas research team, led by Dr. Jennifer Butcher, vice provost for research, writing and special initiatives, and Dr. Darlene Breaux (‘20), college assistant professor and program director for the Ed.D. in educational leadership, is engaged in a comprehensive study with the Region 4 Education Service Center that examines the impact of the Reading by Design® dyslexia intervention program. The study team includes Butcher, Breaux, Dr. Raquel Ellis, Dr. Scott Self (’91), Dr. Sandra Cleveland, Dr. Andy Garcia, Julie Johnson Archer (’19) and Emmy Ammirati.
MEANINGFUL EXPERIENCES THROUGH STUDY ABROAD ACU’s online students have unique opportunities to expand their learning beyond the virtual classroom through meaningful study abroad and immersive retreat experiences. These spaces allow online learners to engage academically, spiritually and culturally while building lasting relationships with peers and faculty. More than 20 students and faculty from the Ed.D. in educational leadership program recently traveled to Oxford, England, for a six-day immersive study abroad experience centered on scholarship, leadership and global engagement. While in Oxford, participants walked the historic halls and grounds of the University of Oxford Harris Manchester College and presented their research at the Oxford Round Table Symposium, an international gathering of educators, researchers and leaders dedicated to exploring how learning can remain relevant, inclusive and impactful. “Presenting research alongside educators from around the world while learning in one of the most historic academic settings reinforces our commitment to developing thoughtful, servant-minded leaders who are prepared to make a meaningful impact,” said Dr. Darlene Breaux (‘20), program director of the Ed.D. in educational leadership program. The group also had the opportunity to visit ACU’s study abroad home in Oxford, further strengthening the university’s global connections and providing students with a deeper appreciation for international collaboration.
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CORPORATE AND COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS Expanding the ACU Partnership Network
ACU Dallas is committed to creating opportunities that empower individuals, uplift organizations and transform communities across the country. Led by Dr. Matt Daniel (‘22), Daniel associate vice president of partnership development, and Jessica Manning, chief enrollment and partnerships officer, the Corporate and Community Partnerships team connects students with flexible, workforce-aligned Manning programs that help them grow in their careers and personal callings. These partnerships open doors to education and help strengthen communities by giving people the knowledge, leadership and practical skills they need to serve others. Learn more at acu.edu/partners.
Theology and Ministry
In addition, ACU Dallas is broadening its efforts with new theology and ministry-focused partnerships with organizations such as the Association of Christian Schools International, RightNow Media and the Hispanic Baptist Convention. These collaborations create educational opportunities for pastors, ministry leaders, Christian educators and faith-based professionals seeking to deepen both their vocational and spiritual formation. Another significant milestone in ACU Dallas’ theology and ministry initiatives is its partnership with the Siburt Institute, which connects ACU with over 300 Church of Christ congregations, expanding access to theological education through tuition discounts.
K-12 Education
ACU Dallas now has active partnerships with 14 of the 20 regional education service centers in Texas, highlighting the university’s dedication to developing strong educators and its role in addressing the ongoing teacher shortage in the state. ACU has experienced strong online enrollment growth across Regions 4, 10, 11 and 13, reflecting a growing demand for adaptable, industry-relevant programs for teachers, administrators and educational leaders. As expansion efforts continue into Regions 7 and 15, more educators are gaining opportunities to pursue advanced degrees and professional development while continuing to serve their students, schools and local communities. 18
Government and Military
ACU Dallas also expanded support for military-affiliated students and government professionals through partnerships with organizations such as USAA and the Wounded Warrior
Project. Recognizing the unique challenges many military members, veterans and public service workers face while balancing career, family and continued service, ACU remains committed to providing flexible educational opportunities designed to meet their needs.
Nonprofit Organizations
The university’s growing relationships with nonprofit organizations such as The Salvation Army further reflect its dedication to service-driven leadership and community impact. By partnering with organizations focused on outreach, advocacy and care, ACU creates opportunities for individuals already serving their communities to strengthen their expertise while continuing to make meaningful contributions through their work.
National Junior College Athletic Association
One of the most significant developments this year was the establishment of the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) partnership. The NJCAA governs over 500 colleges, including thousands of student athletes nationwide and plays a pivotal role in
advancing leadership within collegiate athletics. Through this partnership, ACU has already enrolled 22 NJCAA employees, members and affiliates to support their career advancement and professional growth.
Professional Development Programs
The Corporate and Community Partnerships and the Executive Education and Professional Advancement teams collaborated to offer free professional development opportunities through monthly webinars. These virtual events provided accessible learning opportunities for professionals seeking insights from industry experts and leaders, and attracted more than 400 participants from a variety of companies. The series was created to address current workplace challenges and emerging leadership trends, equipping participants with strategies they can apply directly in their organizations. The Center for Sports Leadership and Learning continued to strengthen its presence in the professional sports industry by facilitating professional development experiences for the Boston Celtics, Detroit Red Wings and Detroit Tigers. These sessions offered training on leadership, team culture, innovation and strategic decision-making to professionals working at the highest levels of sports. 19
OUR MISSION Our purpose as a university is simple: to educate students for Christian service and leadership throughout the world. This mission manifests in our exemplary teaching, meaningful research and service, each undergirded by ACU’s enduring core values and 21st-century vision.
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Learn More at acu.edu/dallas-annual-review