Ģ����ý’s endowment has surpassed $1 billion, placing it among the top private university endowments nationally.

For the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026, the endowment reached $1 billion, joining an elite group of private institutions.

This milestone ensures long-term financial strength, keeping an Ģ����ý education accessible while supporting experiential learning, research, and infrastructure. Over the past fiscal year, the endowment distributed more than $39 million to the university for scholarships, student experiences, faculty initiatives and academic programs.

“This achievement signals that Ģ����ý can scale its impact without compromising its identity,” said Dr. Phil Schubert, Ģ����ý president. “By funding initiatives in and beyond the classroom, the endowment directly enhances the value of an Ģ����ý degree while extending the opportunity to study here to every student pursuing academic excellence rooted in a Christ-centered community. I’m especially grateful for the innovative and disciplined leadership of ACIMCO president and chief investment officer, Joe Lee, in reaching this milestone.”

Lee, a graduate of Harvard University who led Strait Lane Capital Partners in Dallas before stepping into the ACIMCO leadership role in 2022, noted the endowment’s record trajectory for more than two decades. In a recent , Ģ����ý posted the highest investment returns over 5-year (15.8%), 10-year (11.4%), and 20-year (10.8%) periods among university endowments exceeding $500 million.

“If you had to pick one number for defining the strength and flexibility of the university as a financial organization, it would be the endowment,” Lee said. “Universities make promises that span generations, and a strong endowment gives Ģ����ý the financial foundation to keep those promises.”

Fast Facts

• Since its inception, approximately $362 million has been contributed or transferred into Ģ����ý’s endowment. Through disciplined stewardship, the endowment has provided more than $559 million in distributions and transfers to support the university.
• A university endowment is a collection of multiple smaller endowments, many of which are designated by donors for specific purposes, with a responsible portion of investment returns used each year to support the university.
• Approximately 48% of Ģ����ý’s endowment is unrestricted, compared with a median of 21% among peer endowments.

History and Legacy

The Ģ����ý endowment grew from $56 million in 1991 to over $1 billion by June 30, 2026. Key strategic decisions over those three decades include:

• In 1997, Ģ����ý pivoted away from the more conservative strategies of its peers to mirror more progressive asset allocations of billion-dollar funds.
• The university shifted from spending 100% of cash income to spending about 4.5% of total assets, enabling growth-oriented investments and energy royalty structures.
• In 2008, Ģ����ý established the Abilene Christian Investment Management Company (ACIMCO), a dedicated asset management subsidiary.
• The ACIMCO board approved a policy deviation allowing up to 3% of endowment assets to be concentrated in a single public company. A 2015 investment in Texas Pacific Land employing this policy initiative yielded over $73 million.

“A lot of credit goes to Jack Rich, Ģ����ý’s first CIO, for his leadership and understanding of university operations, and credit also goes to ACIMCO,” Lee said. “Having a separate board with investment expertise and dedicated focus on growing the endowment really brings a long term perspective.”

Rich, now a member of the Ģ����ý Board of Trustees, served as the university’s chief investment officer and president of ACIMCO from 2006 to 2022, following earlier leadership roles, including executive vice president of the university.�� 

“When I started, a billion-dollar endowment seemed unimaginable, but along with visionary trustees in the mid-1990s, we began taking steps to facilitate endowment growth,” Rich said. “Ģ����ý has always been courageous, creative and innovative, and the endowment story is part of that culture.”

– Wendy Kilmer
Oct. 13, 2026

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Ģ����ý earned national honors in the 2027 U.S. News & World Report , securing top rankings across undergraduate teaching, undergraduate research and innovation. Notably, Ģ����ý placed #25 in the nation for undergraduate teaching.

Only 25 institutions were recognized on the lists for teaching, research and innovation. Among them are Ģ����ý, Brown, Cornell, Rice, Vanderbilt, Harvard, Yale and Stanford. Abilene Christian is one of only three Texas universities and the only member of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities to be named to all three.

“It’s a testament to Ģ����ý’s educational excellence to be recognized in all three of those significant categories,” said Dr. Phil Schubert, president. “Here, students have access to world-class academics and research alongside teaching and mentoring in a faith-focused, Christ-centered community. We are honored that our peers continue to recognize the transformational experience offered here.”

In addition, Ģ����ý continued its strong performance in U.S. News & World Report’s “” benchmarks. The university earned national recognition across four key categories this year:

• Service Learning: #12 (highest ranked university in Texas)
• First-Year Experience: #17
• Learning Communities: #20
• Undergraduate Research/Creative Projects: #53

Other categories in which Abilene Christian was honored:

• #25 in Undergraduate Teaching Programs (National Universities)
• #65 (tied) in Most Innovative Schools  (National Universities)
• #146 (tied) in Top Private Colleges  (National Universities)
• #106 in Undergraduate Engineering Programs  (National Universities)

In the overall Best National Universities list, Ģ����ý placed #308. The 2027 edition of U.S. News & World Report’s Best Colleges evaluated nearly 1,500 U.S. bachelor’s degree-granting institutions.

Learn more about Ģ����ý’s rankings history and recognition in areas of student success.

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Ģ����ý’s Nuclear Energy eXperimental Testing Lab (NEXT Lab) and its partner Natura Resources reached another milestone in the development of the Molten Salt Research Reactor (MSRR) with the delivery of salt Friday from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE).��

The liquid-fueled reactor approved for construction at Ģ����ý by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission – a Natura Resources MSR-1 – will be the nation’s first university research reactor in more than 30 years, and it is advancing under DOE authorization through the Reactor Pilot Program. FLiBe salt, containing 99.99% enriched lithium-7 to minimize tritium generation, is mixed with the uranium fluoride to form the fuel salt because of its high heat capacity and stable chemistry. More than two tons of salt were delivered Friday to Ģ����ý’s Dillard Science and Engineering Research Center.

The salt came from the DOE’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory via the Idaho National Laboratory which further connects the nation’s historic Molten Salt Reactor Experiment (MSRE) with NEXT Lab’s research efforts and Natura’s commitment to bring the technology into commercial deployment.

“Receiving this salt from the DOE is a handoff between generations of American innovation,” said Jordan Robison, CEO of Natura Resources. “The MSRE showed what molten salt technology could achieve. We’re carrying that legacy forward and turning it into a commercial reality that will deliver reliable energy, clean water and medical isotopes to the world.”

The salt is one of the most specialized inputs required for the reactor’s operation, reducing supply-chain risk and enabling successful deployment of the reactor. Natura will leverage the MSR-1 to generate data for its commercial reactors while Ģ����ý’s NEXT Lab will use it to provide educational and research opportunities for students and faculty. Natura Resources was selected to receive the salt through a competitive DOE solicitation facilitated by Idaho National Laboratory in August 2025.��

The U.S. operated its Molten Salt Reactor Experiment from 1965-69, logging more than 13,000 hours demonstrating passive safety, high-temperature performance, and fuel flexibility. Salt was used to cool the MSRE, and its success provided a foundation and inspiration for NEXT Lab’s research and technology.

“The delivery of this salt from Oak Ridge National Laboratory is the next step in a project that was launched back in 2019,” said Dr. Rusty Towell, director of NEXT Lab. “With this milestone, Natura Resources and Ģ����ý will continue to develop advanced molten salt reactor technology to bless the world with clean energy, pure water and lifesaving medical isotopes.”

Natura’s small modular reactors are designed to deliver safe, affordable and reliable baseload power using liquid fuel and low-pressure operating conditions. The reactors are inherently safe, highly efficient, and built to serve industrial sites and communities, and to support critical infrastructure.

About NEXT Lab
The mission of Ģ����ý’s NEXT Lab is to provide global solutions to the world’s need for energy, water and medical isotopes by advancing the technology of Molten Salt Reactors while educating future leaders in nuclear science and engineering.�� NEXT Lab, sponsored by Natura Resources, is building the Molten Salt Research Reactor to demonstrate the technology and collect data to support Natura’s commercial goals. Students work alongside faculty seeking creative solutions to complex problems, gaining real-world experience and seeing firsthand how innovation and collaboration can impact the world. NEXT Lab employs about 50 people, including 30 undergraduate students.

About Natura Resources
Natura Resources LLC is a leading advanced small modular reactor developer committed to answering increasing domestic and global demands for reliable energy, medical isotopes, and clean water. Natura’s reactors are liquid-fueled and molten salt-cooled, which enhances safety and reduces waste. With the first construction permit for a liquid-fueled reactor from the NRC, Natura has established itself as a leading force in the advanced nuclear industry, fueled by a commitment to support America’s energy future. The company is privately owned and has secured more than $120 million in private funding and a commitment of $120 million from the State of Texas. For more information, visit naturaresources.com.��

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More than 140 students from Ģ����ý and other nearby schools presented a variety of research findings and creative projects April 7 at Ģ����ý’s 18th annual Undergraduate Research, Creativity and Innovation Festival.

A related event – the Excellence in Oratory Forum – took place the night before the festival, showcasing students’ public speaking skills. A segment of the forum featured performances of scriptural passages and powerful speeches delivered by the likes of John F. Kennedy, Frederick Douglass, Barbara Jordan, Gabriela Mistral and C.S. Lewis.

At the festival, undergraduate students from Ģ����ý – as well as McMurry University and Abilene High School – shared the results of their research and projects. Attendees were able to observe findings and creative works across a spectrum of disciplines, including biology, engineering, physics, history, literary criticism, rhetorical criticism, biochemistry, biblical studies, missiology and marketing.

“This diversity reflects Ģ����ý’s commitment to helping train students to love the Lord with all their heart, mind, soul and strength,” said Dr. Randall Fowler, director of undergraduate research, creativity and innovation. “This festival showcases the best and breadth of Ģ����ý, and I applaud our students’ hard work and dedication to their scholarly craft.”

The event concluded with a dinner and presentation of awards for top scholars, Faculty Mentors of the Year, and outstanding presentations, posters and speeches.

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The Fulbright IEA Program supports U.S. higher education administrators in building capacity for international education, fostering institutional partnerships and enhancing campus internationalization efforts. Through this grant, Morris will engage with Taiwanese universities and educational leaders to explore best practices in global education, strengthen collaborative partnerships, and expand opportunities for Ģ����ý students and faculty abroad.

“International exchange is vital to preparing students for lives of leadership and service in a global society,” Morris said. “I am honored to represent Ģ����ý and to deepen partnerships that will benefit our students and our university community.”

Fulbright U.S. Scholars are faculty, researchers, administrators and established professionals who teach or conduct research in affiliation with institutions abroad. They engage in cutting-edge research, expand professional networks, and often continue collaborations initiated overseas – laying the groundwork for lasting institutional partnerships. Upon returning home, Fulbright Scholars enrich their campuses by sharing their experiences, inviting international scholars, and encouraging students to pursue study and research abroad.

Morris plays a key role in mentoring Ģ����ý students through the Fulbright application process each year, helping position them for competitive international scholarships and research opportunities. In the past 10 years, 17 Ģ����ý students have received Fulbright scholarships.

“Jason’s leadership in the Honors College and the Lynay program reflects a deep commitment to academic rigor, global learning and Christ-centered service,” said Dr. Susan Lewis, Ģ����ý provost and vice president for academic affairs. “His latest Fulbright award underscores his excellence in research and scholarship, and his commitment to Ģ����ý’s mission to prepare students to lead and serve around the world.”

About Fulbright
Since 1946, the Fulbright Program has provided more than 400,000 accomplished students, scholars, teachers, artists, and professionals the opportunity to study, teach, and conduct research abroad. Fulbrighters exchange ideas, build people-to-people connections, and work to address complex global challenges. Notable alumni include 62 Nobel Laureates, 93 Pulitzer Prize winners, 82 MacArthur Fellows, and 44 heads of state or government.

Each year, more than 800 individuals participate in the Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program, while over 2,000 U.S. students engage in international study, research or English teaching assistantships through the Fulbright U.S. Student Program.

The Fulbright Program is administered by the U.S. Department of State with funding provided by the U.S. Government and additional support from participating governments, host institutions, corporations, and foundations worldwide. The program operates in more than 160 countries.

– Wendy Kilmer

March 5, 2026

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Dr. Janet Donaldson began work in January as Ģ����ý’s vice president for research, and Dr. Lee Anne Paris has been appointed dean of library services and educational technology, effective Aug. 1, 2026.

Donaldson comes from Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi, where she was associate vice president for research and professor of microbiology, overseeing sponsored research administration, student research and innovation, commercialization, research development, and research analytics. She earned her B.S. and Ph.D. in microbiology and biological sciences from Mississippi State University and completed postdoctoral fellowships at the National Institutes of Health and Mississippi State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. She has held leadership roles at Mississippi State and the University of Southern Mississippi, including department chair of biological sciences and associate dean for research and graduate education.

Her research career has focused on exploring the mechanisms by which food-borne pathogens cause infections, especially Listeria monocytogenes. She has helped garner over $50M in research funding, has published extensively, and has contributed as a national and international reviewer and editor in microbial sciences.��

“Dr. Donaldson is passionate about the faith-based mission of Ģ����ý and is excited to assist us in advancing our support of faculty and student scholarship and research activity,” said Dr. Robert Rhodes, senior vice president for academic affairs.��

Paris brings experience in academic leadership, library administration, accreditation, and faculty development. She currently serves as executive director of academic policy and curriculum at the University of Central Oklahoma, overseeing curriculum approval processes, key academic policy bodies, academic catalogs and campus curriculum systems, and serves as liaison to the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education and on UCO’s Higher Learning Commission Writing Team.

Her previous roles include director of research and user engagement at UCO’s Max Chambers Library and dean of library and instructional support and associate chief academic officer at Oklahoma Christian University.

Paris holds a Ph.D. in information and library science from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, an M.L.I.S. from the University of Oklahoma, and a B.A. in English and Portuguese from Vanderbilt University.��

“Dr. Paris’s scholarship and professional service reflect a long-standing commitment to academic libraries, digital learning and institutional effectiveness,” said Dr. Susan Lewis, provost and vice president for academic affairs. “I’m confident she brings the vision, experience and judgment needed to lead this portfolio in ways that align with Ģ����ý’s mission and strategic priorities.”

– Wendy Kilmer
Feb. 10, 2025

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The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has a plan to provide high-assay low-enriched uranium (HALEU) to Ģ����ý and its partner, , for their cutting-edge nuclear research. This crucial fuel allocation will support the university’s Nuclear Energy eXperimental Testing (NEXT) Lab in the development of a next-generation molten salt reactor.

Ģ����ý’s research reactor will be the first deployment of the Natura MSR-1 – a 1-megawatt thermal molten salt reactor system. Access to HALEU is essential for advancing the design and testing phases of this pioneering project.

Because HALEU is not yet commercially available from domestic suppliers, the DOE established a process for nuclear developers to request the material. Ģ����ý is one of just three new entities selected to receive an allocation, following an initial round of awards to five companies earlier this year. The DOE is expected to finalize the contracting process and potentially deliver HALEU to recipients later this year.

This announcement follows another significant milestone as the DOE recently named Natura Resources as one of only 11 projects nationwide to participate in the new . This federal initiative is designed to fast-track the development and deployment of advanced nuclear reactors by 2026.

These recent federal announcements propel Ģ����ý’s NEXT Lab into the national spotlight, solidifying the university’s position as a key contributor to U.S. nuclear energy innovation. The Ģ����ý research reactor project is the only university-led reactor project in the country with a construction permit from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. It also marks the first time a liquid salt-fueled reactor has been licensed by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.

“Ģ����ý is grateful to the Department of Energy and Secretary Wright for their leadership in advancing America’s nuclear energy future, and we deeply appreciate Congressman Jodey Arrington, Senator John Cornyn and Senator Ted Cruz for their continued support of our groundbreaking nuclear research,” said Ģ����ý president Dr. Phil Schubert. “This access to fuel enables Ģ����ý and our partners at Natura Resources to take the critical next steps in designing and testing advanced nuclear technology – paving the way for safe, clean and reliable energy while creating extraordinary opportunities for our students and faculty to contribute to innovative research with global impact and strengthening our nation’s energy security.”

The project has also received significant support at the state level, as the 89th Texas legislature’s recently approved budget directed $120 million to benefit the NEXT Lab and Natura partnership, in conjunction with Texas Tech University and the Texas Produced Water Consortium.

— Wendy Kilmer
Aug. 28, 2025

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Ģ����ý (Ģ����ý) proudly announces the launch of the Applied Research Center (ARC), a new initiative that empowers students and faculty to engage in meaningful, high-quality research that addresses real-world challenges and generates innovative, community-driven solutions.

Rooted in Ģ����ý’s commitment to faith and scholarship, the ARC serves as both a resource hub and a collaborative space for research that impacts local and global communities. The center provides a range of services, including research education and training, support for faculty and doctoral student research, seed funding and facilitation of community-based research partnerships.

“Research at Ģ����ý Dallas is more than academic—it’s a reflection of our commitment to serve, to question deeply, and to innovate with purpose,” said Dr. Jennifer Butcher, Vice Provost for Research, Writing & Special Initiatives. “The Applied Research Center is a vital expression of that mission, empowering our community to seek knowledge that transforms lives and creates meaningful impact.” 

Inspired by the biblical story of Noah’s Ark (Genesis 6:14–22), the ARC symbolizes a vessel of preservation, renewal and hope. In this spirit, the ARC is a sanctuary for ideas, fostering resilience and forward-thinking solutions in a rapidly changing world.

Key features of the ARC include:

• Training and Resources: Workshops and materials to enhance research knowledge and skills for students and faculty.
• Funding Support: Seed grants for faculty research and guidance in securing external funding.
• Student Fellowships: Research opportunities and mentoring for students at all levels.
• Recognition and Publication: Annual research conferences, awards for research excellence and publication opportunities.
• Collaborative Research: Support for student-faculty partnerships and multidisciplinary research through ARC Collectives.
• Community Engagement: Partnerships with local organizations to co-create research that addresses shared challenges.

“Through the ARC, we are equipping researchers not only with knowledge and tools, but with a deeper purpose—to serve others through discovery and innovation,” said Dr. Raquel Ellis, ARC Director.��

The ARC Collectives, composed of faculty, students and community partners, are a cornerstone of ARC’s collaborative approach. These groups work across disciplines to pursue research, apply for external grants, present at conferences and publish in peer-reviewed journals.

“The ARC is more than a center—it’s a movement to harness academic inquiry in service to others, guided by our Christian faith,” said Dr. George Saltsman, Provost & Vice President of Academic Affairs for Ģ����ý’s Dallas campus.

For more information about the Applied Research Center and how to get involved, visit acu.edu/arc or contact arc@acu.edu.

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A recent appropriation from the Texas Legislature, signed by Gov. Greg Abbott, focuses on water desalination and directs research funding to to help accelerate their research partnership with Ģ����ý and its molten salt reactor project, sponsored by .��

In January, Ģ����ý entered into a memorandum of understanding with Texas Tech, Natura and the to address Texas’ most pressing water and energy challenges. A key goal of the collaboration is to integrate MSR technology with water desalination systems, aiming to purify produced water from oil and gas operations for beneficial use.��

The Natura Resources MSR-1, a liquid-fueled molten salt reactor that was licensed last year by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to be constructed on Ģ����ý’s campus as a university research reactor – the nation’s first in more than 30 years – is the first step toward commercial deployment of the technology in the Permian Basin to provide energy and beneficial use of produced water. The appropriation to Texas Tech will include a subaward to Ģ����ý for research, development, permitting, licensing and construction of the MSR-1 the university’s Nuclear Energy eXperimental Testing Laboratory.

“Texas Tech University is proud to partner with Ģ����ý and Natura Resources in advancing desalination of produced water through cutting-edge molten salt reactor technology,” said Lawrence Schovanec, president of Texas Tech University. “This collaboration exemplifies our commitment to innovation, sustainability and addressing critical energy and water security challenges.”

Natura’s MSR technology will also generate life-saving medical isotopes essential for cancer treatment, diagnostic imaging and other advanced medical procedures, which will help alleviate global shortages and establish Texas as a leader in medical innovation.

“We are deeply grateful to the Texas Legislature for their historic commitment to advanced nuclear innovation,” said Doug Robison, founder and CEO of Natura Resources. “This appropriation allows Natura and Ģ����ý to deploy the nation’s first advanced, liquid-fueled reactor in late 2026. Such milestones position Natura as the leader in the advanced reactor space and Texas as the leader in clean energy, water technology and the production of life-saving medical isotopes. Thanks to this unprecedented support, Texas is poised to shape the future of energy, water and medical science for the world.”

The ongoing partnership between Texas Tech, Ģ����ý and Natura Resources also contributes to workforce development, research and the establishment of a robust supply chain within Texas. These efforts, supported by the state’s recent investment, will help ensure reliable, affordable and sustainable energy, water and medical resources for Texas communities and beyond.

“Ģ����ý is honored to partner in this historic initiative with Texas Tech University and Natura Resources,” said Dr. Phil Schubert, Ģ����ý president. “Ģ����ý, along with our partners, is positioned to become a national leader in advanced nuclear training and research, setting a global standard for clean energy and medical advancements. We are especially grateful to Sen. Perry, Rep. Lambert and Rep. Darby for their leadership and support in making this partnership possible.”

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Ģ����ý’s will receive $2.1 million as part of a collaboration with Pepperdine University’s Empower and Equip program, designed to strengthen the ministries and leadership of Churches of Christ in rural areas and small towns.

Lilly Endowment Inc. granted Pepperdine $7.5 million for the Empower and Equip initiative, which aims to enhance the vitality of rural ministries by providing encouragement, updated data, leadership training, opportunities for collaboration and resources to expand ecclesial imaginations. Pepperdine is collaborating with ministry leaders and organizations, including Ģ����ý’s Siburt Institute, through sub-granting and partnerships.

“The national scope of the Siburt Institute positions us well to serve the aims of this initiative,” said Carson Reed, vice president for church relations at Ģ����ý and executive director for the Siburt Institute. “We are excited about partnering with Pepperdine and with an array of other institutions and colleges to resource rural and small town congregations.”

 The Siburt Institute’s role in the project involves conducting and gathering fresh research and data, training leaders, and building a publicly accessible library featuring sermons, educational classes and community engagement guidance.��

Other aspects of Pepperdine’s initiative include:

• Ten regional hub partnerships to provide targeted training and encouragement for for equipping ministers and lay leaders within their communities
• An annual conference bringing together leaders from project partners nationwide to share updates, identify community needs and provide a platform for strategic planning to address future challenges facing rural ministries.
• A research component led by Pepperdine’s research team to investigate the causes of declining church attendance and religious sentiment, not only within Churches of Christ, but across various denominations.��

Pepperdine University is one of 20 organizations from across the United States receiving grants through the Lilly Endowment’s Ministry in Rural Areas and Small Towns Initiative.

“We are honored to receive support from  Lilly Endowment Inc. as it invests in the future of Churches of Christ in rural areas and small towns,” said Mike Cope, director of ministry outreach at Pepperdine University, who will be the director of the initiative. “We believe our work will help reignite a passion for ministry and bring renewed energy to these vital congregations, and we’re eager to work in collaboration with the Siburt Institute in both national and regional efforts to accomplish the goals.”

Learn more about Ģ����ý’s .

— Wendy Kilmer
Feb. 19, 2025

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