Manhattan Christian College: A Legacy of Christian Leadership and Academic Excellence
Manhattan Christian College (MCC), founded in 1927, stands as a testament to the enduring power of faith-based education. Rooted in the Restoration Movement, MCC has consistently striven to "educate, equip, and enrich Christian leaders" who will impact the world for Christ. This article explores the history, academics, and unique ethos of this institution, highlighting its commitment to both rigorous scholarship and spiritual formation.
The Genesis of a Vision: Founding and Early Years
The story of Manhattan Christian College begins with Dr. Eugene C. Sanderson, whose vision was to further the Kingdom of Christ. In the summer of 1926, Dr. Sanderson met with T. Johnson, dean of Johnson Bible College, to discuss the possibility of establishing a Bible college in Manhattan, Kansas. This vision materialized in 1927 when Dr. Sanderson established Christian Workers University for the purpose of establishing a Bible college.
That first year, one teacher greeted 28 students. Of these, six were interested in formal ministry: R. C. McCord, Marion A. Brown, Rex Harmon, Clayton Hildebrand, Leo Warner, and Clarence Closen. The remaining 22 were primarily local residents taking non-credit courses. Classes were held in a large house divided into twelve rooms and four sleeping porches, which also served as the Johnson family's home.
Overcoming Obstacles: The Depression Era and Beyond
The early years of Manhattan Christian College were marked by financial challenges, particularly during the Great Depression. In September 1928, the college broke ground on a new building, but financial conditions worsened across the nation, compelling Dr. Sanderson to relinquish his work with Bible colleges.
Despite these difficulties, the college persevered. In 1931, 60 students were enrolled. In the summer of 1935 T. H. Johnson became president of the College. Though Johnson knew the college was poor, she continued operations. The college acquired a stone building on the corner of 14th and Anderson Ave. through the generosity of benefactors like Dr. and Mrs. O. M.
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Under Johnson's leadership, the college became a self-governing entity with twelve trustees. The years ahead were stormy for the college. Many Bible colleges across the nation faced similar challenges. T. H. Johnson continued to tell the story and cast the vision of Kingdom building.
Accreditation and Growth: Forging a Path to Recognition
In the fall of 1943, Mr. Johnson learned of the existence of the American Association of Bible Colleges (AABC) and pursued accreditation. Three years later, in May of 1952, President T. H. Johnson announced that the AABC had contributed students. Poor health forced Dr. Johnson to resign and a new president was selected several months later.
Following Johnson's resignation, Dr. Burton Thurston (1953-1955) was chosen to be the next president. In May of 1955, W. F. Lown became president. During this time Dr. Lown taught music fundamentals and song leading. He also directed the choir, and women’s glee club. After five years, with the passing of Dr. T. H. Johnson, Dr. Lown's health took a turn for the worse. The college was once again on the verge of financial collapse. Dr. Lown worked with churches and individuals as much as possible. He emphasized the college's independence, siding with independent churches and maintaining a Biblically conservative position.
Campus Development and Academic Expansion
In 1960, Dr. James Van Buren and Dr. Paul Brown worked among Kansas churches. In 1972, the B. D. Phillips Library was dedicated, providing an expanded learning area, conference rooms, as well as student and staff offices.
Campus development continued. The college gained national recognition. Dr. Richard T. Rink became president. His presidency enhanced the campus. Jolliffe Hall was renamed in the summer of 1982 through the generosity of Mrs. Jolliffe of Council Grove, KS, in honor of her late husband’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. J. W. Jolliffe.
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The college launched the Extension Foundation in October 1985 and initiated a capital campaign, raising $1.3 million in cash in 93 days. Dr. Ray Kenoyer became president and the college added the LEAD Degree Completion Program, a Campus Center, and a Chapel. Manhattan Christian College was accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. The college purchased a new apartment building adjacent to campus property and constructed the first official entrance to the college campus.
A Focus on Christian Leadership and Ministry
Manhattan Christian College is committed to the Christian mission of winning the world to Christ. The college seeks to foster in all students a worldwide vision of the mission of the church: preparing them to be servant leaders, providing opportunities for spiritual growth, and promoting the Restoration Movement ideal of becoming Christ’s church as revealed in the New Testament.
MCC pleads for the unity of all believers on the common ground of commitment and obedience to the lordship of Christ. The college has no creed except faith in Jesus as the Christ, God’s Son and humankind’s Savior. It is the college's desire to call all people of all nations to faith and obedience to Him as revealed in scripture. The guiding perspective behind the Manhattan Christian College educational practice is the belief that God has created, redeems, and is recreating all things. The college believes that college education can facilitate transformational change for students and subsequently for those whom students influence in the present and the future.
Leadership training is an intentional focus of the student experience. Students are prepared to be leaders who serve Christ and others. The strength of the MCC experience is found in relationships. The college is a close-knit community of believers where personal relationships with fellow students as well as faculty and staff are the norm.
Academics: Equipping Students for Service
Manhattan Christian College offers bachelor of arts or science degrees in various ministerial fields. The rigorous academic programs are rooted in the Bible and help students receive an education that deepens their knowledge of God’s Word, matures them in their personal relationship with Christ, and prepares them to be able to share the Gospel in their sphere of influence.
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The learning environment is characterized by mutual trust, mutual respect, mutual helpfulness, freedom of expression, and acceptance of difference. Faculty and students co-create the space within which material is presented, discussed, and applied. Active learning and Collaboration are emphasized.
Athletics and Extracurricular Activities
MCC offers many sports programs including men's and women's soccer, men's and women's basketball, women's volleyball, men's baseball, and men's and women's cross country. These activities provide opportunities for students to develop their physical skills, build teamwork, and foster a sense of community.
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