Matt Hopkins

As Grand Canyon University grows, more students arriving on campus are identified with autism spectrum disorders. Efforts to welcome and include these students occur naturally on a campus where students look out for each other. Intentional efforts are expanding all across campus, from faculty members to Student Disability Services staffers who have implemented a new program, ASD Connection, to boost social and academic support. Part 1 of GCU Today’s series on the University’s approach to students on the spectrum includes the viewpoint of Austin Forney, a GCU junior who shared the highs and lows of navigating college life.

It’s on Us conversations can be difficult, if not heart-wrenching. Yet GCU students are willing to discuss issues surrounding the prevention of sexual harassment and sexual assault. Along with the emphasis on being an active bystander, the Associated Students of GCU have raised over $3,000 for StreetLightUSA, an organization committed to helping young girls at risk for or victims of child sex trafficking.

How do thousands of GCU students and their families make their way in cars, vans and U-Hauls from the perimeter of campus to their well-appointed residence hall rooms? Thousands of volunteers welcome them and move them in under the direction of Charity Norman, Director of Welcome Programs. GCU senior writer Theresa Smith embedded with Norman on Tuesday. One day earlier, she was shadowed by a video crew. Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at Move-In.

Bucking the trend at many colleges of upperclassmen moving off campus, there are unprecedented numbers of students moving onto the GCU campus in late August, including the rapidly growing east side. They are drawn by safety, accessibility, affordability and, perhaps most importantly: community. Within the residence halls and apartments, their Resident Directors and Resident Assistants are helping them make friends and their Life Leaders offer Bible study.