Mid-America Christian University (MACU) announced it has been awarded a $3 million, five-year U.S. Department of Education Strengthening Institutions
Program (SIP) grant to launch ASCEND — Artificial Intelligence for Student Completion, Employment, and Next-Generation Development. The initiative is designed to transform the student experience through the responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI).
The ASCEND initiative will embed artificial intelligence across five core pillars: proactive student advising, AI literacy and academic tutoring, teacher preparation, career pathway development, and administrative modernization. ASCEND is designed to provide students with 24/7 personalized support to help them successfully navigate their academic journey.
Through this funding, MACU will improve student retention and completion by equipping students, faculty, and staff with the tools and skills needed for an increasingly AI-enabled workforce. Highlights of the initiative include no-cost AI training for teachers across Oklahoma; a free AI course for Oklahoma high school students focused on the responsible use of AI; an AI Writing Center; the establishment of an AI Academy and expanded faculty training; AI-driven career and interview preparation tools; personalized tutoring; and expanded STEM resources for regional high schools.
“ASCEND allows us to seamlessly blend our commitment to faith-based education with the ethical and responsible use of artificial intelligence in the learning experience,” said Chief Information Officer Jody Allen. “This project will help ensure our students, as well as high school students across the region, receive guidance and hands-on preparation for the careers of tomorrow. At MACU, our mission is to help students Create, Collaborate, and Innovate. This grant strengthens that mission by positioning MACU at the forefront of innovation for students seeking a Christ-centered education.”
The ASCEND initiative directly aligns with MACU’s strategic priorities by modernizing its academic offerings, strengthening long-term student success, and advancing its faith-based mission through responsible innovation.