Biden Admin's Historic Fine Against Grand Canyon University Dropped Amid Religious Persecution Claims

Dismissal of $37.7 Million Fine

• 🎯 Grand Canyon University (GCU), America's largest Christian college, has had a historic $37.7 million fine from the U.S. Department of Education dismissed.
• 🏛️ GCU President Brian Mueller believes the fine, levied by the previous administration, was an unfair targeting of the university.
• ✅ The Department of Education confirmed the decision, with a spokesperson stating they would not "persecute and prosecute colleges and universities based on their religious affiliation."

Origins of the Fine and Investigations

• 🔍 The issue began six years ago when GCU reverted to its nonprofit status, which was approved by the IRS and other authorities.
• ⚠️ When GCU filed a complaint due to the Department of Education's non-cooperation, the department allegedly retaliated by opening five investigations.
• 🎓 The Department of Education eventually centered its focus on claims that GCU misled doctoral students regarding the time and cost to complete their degrees.
• 🚫 GCU vehemently denied these claims, stating they are a leader in that area and have received no student complaints.

Claims of Religious Persecution

• ✝️ GCU President Mueller asserts that there was no substantial reason for the "incredible attacks" other than the university being a Christian university.
• 🤝 He points to a bipartisan letter signed by Arizona's senators and representatives, supporting GCU's nonprofit status and its contributions.
• 🗣️ Mueller expressed disappointment that the individuals causing the issues in Washington were unwilling to visit the campus and engage objectively.

GCU's Financial Model and Mission

• 💰 GCU has developed a financial model that makes private Christian higher education affordable without taxpayer expense, attracting significant interest nationwide.
• 📈 The university has not raised tuition in 16 years, has lower student debt than average state universities, and has seen significant enrollment growth.
• 🌟 Beyond academics, GCU is attractive to parents who want their children to attend a Christian university where their faith is reinforced.
• 🌍 GCU actively contributes to its local community, particularly an immigrant neighborhood, by investing millions and providing opportunities, demonstrating their faith in action.

Advice for Other Institutions

• 🙏 Mueller attributes the university's success and the resolution of the fine to divine intervention and a belief in furthering God's kingdom.
• ✊ He advises other Christian institutions not to back down when facing similar challenges, emphasizing the importance of holding their ground and believing in their mission.