The CRC has a long history of working together and pooling resources in order to further God’s kingdom work around the world. This year features a special column in each issue of The Banner that includes an interview with leaders of these shared ministries: Thrive, Resonate Global Mission, ReFrame Ministries, World Renew, Calvin University, and Calvin Theological Seminary. This issue focuses on Greg Elzinga, president of Calvin University.
Q: As Calvin University celebrates 150 years, what does this milestone represent for the university?
Above all, it represents God’s faithfulness. For 150 years, Calvin University and Calvin Theological Seminary have shared a ministry rooted in the belief that Christ is Lord over every part of life. Generations of students have been shaped not only academically, but spiritually—prepared to serve God’s kingdom in churches, communities, and professions around the world. This anniversary is a celebration and a reminder that we are stewards of a mission much bigger than ourselves.
Q: Many Christian colleges are navigating uncertainty in higher education. How is Calvin approaching this moment?
We recognize the challenges facing higher education today—changing demographics, financial pressures, and rapid technological change. But moments like this call us back to our foundation. Our confidence isn’t in trends; it’s in Christ. Calvin is responding by renewing our mission while thoughtfully innovating, ensuring students are prepared to live out their faith with wisdom, courage, and humility in a rapidly changing culture.
Q: How does faith shape the educational experience at Calvin?
Faith is woven into everything we do. Professors serve as mentors who help students discern calling and purpose, not just career paths. A Christian liberal arts education teaches students to think deeply about God’s world—to pursue truth, engage differences with grace, and seek justice and reconciliation. The outcomes are encouraging. Our graduates succeed in highly competitive fields but, just as importantly, they leave prepared to serve others and lead with integrity grounded in their faith.
Q: How is Calvin preparing students for the future while remaining rooted in its Christian mission?
Emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence raise important ethical questions, and Christian higher education has an important role to play in that conversation. We are integrating AI and digital literacy across disciplines while grounding students in Christian ethics and responsibility. Through internships, global learning, and community engagement, students learn to use their gifts in service to others. Our hope is simple: to graduate men and women who think deeply, act justly, and live wholeheartedly as Christ’s agents of renewal in God’s world.