Columbia International University President Dr. Mark Smith led a CIU delegation to Washington, D.C. in June introducing South Carolina legislators to CIU’s mission, as well as CIU’s vision for the community. Among those making the trip was a CIU student - Jordan Sprueill. Visits were made to U.S. House members James Clyburn and Joe Wilson, and Senators Tim Scott and Lindsey Graham. All expressed support for CIU.

Legislators are especially interested in assisting CIU in its efforts to improve the Monticello Road corridor, the gateway to the CIU campus. CIU has begun bringing together community leaders, businesses and local government officials to direct resources to the economically challenged area of North Columbia. 

CIU is seeking the support from the legislators for a variety of grants. Of particular interest to the legislators are programs that provide upgraded broadband infrastructure to the area surrounding CIU, new business development assistance, and skills training. CIU is poised to help in these areas with the new William H. Jones Global Business & IT Center scheduled for completion in 2019, and the existing Launch entrepreneurship center already on campus.  

Meanwhile, CIU is also preparing a federal grant proposal from American Schools and Hospitals Abroad (ASHA) that will assist CIU’s Korntal, Germany campus (European School of Culture and Theology) in expanding a training program directed at the refugee populations streaming into Germany. An outcome of this training is an understanding of the fundamental democratic principles which guide America, as well as strengthened leadership skills. Graduates of the program become stabilizing forces among refugee populations in Europe and in their home countries. ASHA is an organizational unit within the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).

CIU has announced $25 million in expansion plans for the campus, including construction of the $20 million William H. Jones Global Business and IT Center. Information on CIU programs and enrollment is available here or call (800) 777-2227, ext. 5024. CIU is accredited by SACS-COC.