Brian Mueller joined Grand Canyon University (GCU) in July 2008 to usher in a new era for the institution – from an entrepreneurial venture to a market-supported private university. Taking the successes he experienced as a teacher and coach at the high school and small college level as well as his 22 years of experience at the Apollo Group (the parent company of University of Phoenix), Mueller transformed GCU from a financially troubled university into a $2 billion institution that has become a driving force in higher education today.
As the university’s president and CEO, Mueller is progressive and anticipatory in an industry that is slow in adapting to change. Since Mueller joined GCU, the university has experienced unprecedented growth. Enrollment on the Phoenix campus has increased from less than 1,000 to 16,000, while online enrollment has improved from 12,500 to 55,000. Mueller has also overseen a $600 million expansion of the campus through new technologies, classrooms, laboratories, athletic facilities and student amenities, with another $200 million in improvements scheduled for the next three years.
These efforts to create a better educational environment have been accomplished at no additional cost to students or taxpayers in Arizona. By creating a hybrid education model that relies on operational efficiencies and fiscal responsibility on its ground and online campuses, Mueller has been able to freeze tuition on GCU’s Phoenix campus for seven straight years. This ensures one of his highest priorities as president – that a high-quality, private, Christian education is affordable to all socioeconomic classes. GCU awards approximately $140 million in institutional aid to students every year and remains among the most affordable private universities in the country.
To hear Brian’s personal story of finding fulfillment in work, come to Sum and Substance on April 28th! Get your tickets HERE!
