By Joseph Knight

CIU Student Writer

Nearly 100 business leaders from the Columbia area heard the Columbia International University president talk about leadership and CIU’s vision for the Columbia community. Dr. Mark Smith outlined CIU’s future plans at a luncheon of the South Carolina Christian Chamber of Commerce where the theme was “The Power of the Community.”

CIU’s vision for the Monticello Road corridor, further educational and construction developments on campus, and a partnership between the university and the city of Columbia were important topics in Smith’s presentation. He also announced influential leadership expert Dr. John Maxwell as the keynote speaker at CIU’s upcoming leadership conference April 25.

Smith highlighted the construction plans for The William H. Jones Global Business & IT Center, the addition of a professional Mondo track for CIU athletics, and renovation of the CIU dining room and Shortess Chapel. He also spoke about the importance of looking beyond the campus, saying that “we [want to] lift everyone as we go forward.” Smith asked the gathering to pray for CIU and come alongside the university to bring change to Columbia.

South Carolina Christian Chamber of Commerce Director Jamie Jordan concluded the event by saying “we need to support the work that they are doing at CIU.”

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.