Columbia International University Chancellor Dr. Bill Jones is known around Columbia for conducting downtown Bible studies with area business professionals, and leading many of them to Christ. It’s from this passion that the Columbia International University Board of Trustees unanimously voted to name CIU’s new business and IT center, The William H. Jones Business and IT Center.    

During his 10 years as president of CIU from 2007-2017, Jones often communicated his passion that CIU graduates impact the nations with the message of Christ as professional ministers, such as pastors and missionaries; but also as ministering professionals in the marketplace.

The William H. Jones Business and IT Center has four primary goals:

1. Educate university students in best practices for Business and IT and how to integrate those skills into the global world.
2. Provide a corporate training room for Columbia area business professionals to act as a catalyst for business development. This training will begin with the John Maxwell Leadership Forum on April 25 at CIU.   
3. Enhance the campus IT functionality and infrastructure for all staff and students.
4. Provide a high school “Young Professionals Business/IT Academy” for the students of Ben Lippen School, CIU’s Pre-K to 12^th grade Christian school.

CIU President Dr. Mark Smith says for over 90 years, CIU has been distinguished for its excellent biblical and theological programs that train graduates for the ministry, and now is increasing its focus on marketplace academic programs taught with a global perspective, equipping students with the business skills needed for the marketplace as well as the mission field. 

“‘To Know Christ and to Make Him Known’ in every profession is our mandate,” Smith said quoting CIU’s motto.

“It’s important for employees to be great citizens and have a strong work ethic,” Smith added. “There is a direct correlation between a biblical worldview and good citizens. Employers want people who are not only competent in their trade, but trustworthy, honest and hard-working.”  

The Center and other program initiatives total $20 million. A CIU donor has already committed $12 million toward the Center. The university is seeking additional donors to assist in its completion with groundbreaking expected in May.          

For more information on donating to CIU’s expansion plans, visit ciu.edu/impact or contact the CIU Advancement Office at (800) 777-2227, ext. 5500.

CIU is experiencing exciting growth in enrollment and is accredited by SACS-COC. More information on programs and enrollment is available here or call (800) 777-2227.