On Friday, Jan. 15, Biola University’s Campaign National Tour hosted its fourth event, and the first stop outside of Southern California, at the monOrchid Gallery in Phoenix, Ariz. President Barry H. Corey was joined by more than 60 Biola alumni, parents, current students and friends to learn more about Biola’s bold vision for the future, which has propelled Biola’s first-ever comprehensive fundraising campaign: “A Soul of Conviction, A Voice of Courage: The Campaign for Biola University.”


The campaign, a $180 million comprehensive campaign to raise support for student scholarships, facilities, academic centers and online learning is the largest and first comprehensive campaign in university history. To date, more than $167 million has been raised toward these goals, including an additional $19,000 generously given by Phoenix supporters at the event.


Alumnus and assistant professor of apologetics Sean McDowell (’98) traveled to Phoenix to share with attendees why he believes an institution like Biola University is vital in today’s world. Pulling from his own academic background and knowledge passed down from his father, noted apologist Josh McDowell, he discussed the importance of Biola continuing to hold firm to its convictions.


“We live in a time where it is easier than ever to walk away from the truth,” said McDowell. “But we cannot. We need to be speaking truth with more courage, conviction and boldness than ever, but we have to do it from a position with broken hearts of genuine love and care.”


McDowell concluded his talk by encouraging guests to support Biola in its commitment to raise up young men and women who model this loving but truthful engagement with culture.


“One of the greatest responsibilities and needs for Biola is to continue to nurture students in the faith,” said McDowell.


Corey briefly updated guests on the state of the university, highlighting recent changes like the addition of Blackstone Hall and the exciting work of Biola’s academic centers. He also introduced attendees to the details of the campaign, emphasizing the campaign’s four priorities, including student affordability and funding for the Alton and Lydia Lim Center for Science, Technology and Health. Corey expressed his excitement and thankfulness for God’s faithfulness at the progress of the campaign.


“We are 92 percent of the way toward our goal, and only 80 percent of the way through our timeline,” said Corey.


Alumni Laura Cook (’14) and Dustin McCurry (’10) shared with guests about how Biola prepared them for their respective careers in marketing and medicine. Both highlighted how their education challenged them to think well and equipped them with tools to apply in their fields.


The Campaign National Tour continues throughout the year, with stops in Sacramento, Washington, D.C., New York City, San Francisco and Seattle in the spring. Visit giving.biola.edu/nationaltour for more information.

Written by Cambria Hayashino. For more information, contact Jenna Loumagne, media relations specialist, at (562) 777-4061 or jenna.loumagne@biola.edu.