It pays to advertise.

Paris Acquah is a Columbia International University student because of a billboard her father saw on Interstate 20 linking South Carolina and her home state of Georgia. It was advertising CIU’s new nursing program — a major she wanted to pursue. But Ms. Acquah also says she is a CIU student because of CIU scholarship donors, some of whom she met at CIU’s annual Partner Appreciation Luncheon.

“The University of Miami offered me a full-tuition scholarship, but God told me to let go of that for CIU,” Acquah said after the luncheon. “I didn’t know if I could afford it, but the donor scholarship changed everything. I’m grateful for that.”

Dozens of students took turns at a microphone to briefly introduce themselves and thank the donors. Among them was Charles Hines. It was only the second time that Hines has stepped foot on campus. The pastor from Monroe, North Carolina is an online student in the Master of Arts in Care and Counseling program. He was awarded the Robertson McQuilkin Seminary Scholarship named for CIU’s third president, a prominent figure in CIU history.

“I didn’t really know a lot about Robertson McQuilkin until I talked to the (donors) around my table,” Hines said. “It’s good to be among people and see the culture here at the school,” which he adds matches his online experience.

Among the donors were CIU adjunct music teachers Russ and Carol Rhodes who sponsor the Rhodes Scholarship for Music majors, some of whom sat at their table.

“We get to hear what their heart is like and what they are interested in doing with their music training, and we get to maybe offer some counsel,” said Mr. Rhodes. “It’s a real blessing for us to have a meal with them and learn more about their ministry.”

At the conclusion of the luncheon, CIU President Dr. Bill Jones introduced “M” (name withheld), an Intercultural Studies major from the Muslim country of Azerbaijan where he serves as a church planter.

“I have a passion to go back to Azerbaijan and preach the light of the gospel to those people who have never heard about Jesus Christ,” M said.

M was joined on the stage by Gvidon Stamboltsyan, a student from Armenia, which borders Azerbaijan. Jones noted that the countries represented by the two students have been at war for hundreds of years, but added:

“At CIU, because they are brothers in Christ, now they are fighting together against an unseen enemy.”

That brought the luncheon to an end with a rousing round of applause from all in attendance.

Higher learning. Deeper faith. A Christ-centered community on campus and online. Apply now or request information on enrollment at CIU by contacting Admissions at (803) 807-5024 or admissions@ciu.edu.