October 2025

Last week, President Bruce McAllister shared an encouraging update with BJU faculty and staff following the recent Board of Trustees meeting. In his letter, Dr. McAllister expressed gratitude for the working relationship and the progress:

“I’m happy to report that last week’s Board of Trustees meeting was very encouraging and reflected a spirit of excellent cooperation, optimism and forward momentum.  With thanksgiving, I can confirm that the Board and I, along with my leadership team, are aligned and looking ahead with confidence.”

Among the key takeaways was the university’s strengthening financial performance. Fiscal Year 2025 closed on a solid footing, and BJU entered FY26 with positive financial momentum. Particularly noteworthy was the significant improvement in the Department of Education’s financial responsibility score—a metric used for federal student aid eligibility. After scoring 1.5 in FY23 and FY24, BJU’s score rose to 2.9 out of a possible 3.0 in FY25, thanks to increased new student enrollment and careful expense management.

He attributed this progress to God’s provision through the prayers of thousands and the dedicated work of many across the institution.

Looking ahead, Dr. McAllister emphasized an important initiative confirmed during the week:

“The collaborative spirit between our leadership team and the Board was energizing and clearly evident in our shared goals. We are united in launching a new strategic plan during our centennial year—one that will drive enrollment growth and lay the foundation for a major capital campaign.”

Between BOT meetings, President McAllister and Board Chairman Sam Dawson were able to attend a special banquet with other academic leaders from throughout South Carolina.  Dr. McAllister, in his letter to employees, reflected on the event as a tribute to both the guest of honor’s character and the enduring mission of Bob Jones University:

“We joined fellow leaders from the twenty SCICU member institutions at Furman University to celebrate Caleb Erkens, a senior actuarial science major at BJU, who was named the 2025 SCICU Student of the Year. In his acceptance speech, Caleb shared that “my deepest motivation is not an award, a degree or even a career. It is doing all to the glory of my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He has guided me, strengthened me and given me every opportunity—and it is my prayer that all I do would point others to Him.” Caleb’s remarks reminded me of the vital work we do BJU—partnering with parents and churches to equip students to pursue excellence as they follow and proclaim Christ.”