As you step into the newest addition to Mid-America Christian University’s campus, you’re not just walking down a hallway — you’re walking through decades of vision, perseverance, and faith. The new History Hall, located in Fozard Hall, invites visitors to experience MACU’s story from its earliest days in Houston, Texas, to its thriving home in Oklahoma City. More than a timeline of dates and events, it’s a living testimony of God’s faithfulness and the enduring mission that has shaped MACU for over 70 years.
From a Small Bible Institute to a Growing Vision
The journey began on September 14, 1953, when Dr. Max Gaulke opened the doors to South Texas Bible Institute in Houston. What started as a small group of students answering God’s call to ministry quickly became a growing community with a big dream — to prepare people to do greater things for God and His Kingdom.
By 1955, the school had become Gulf Coast Bible College, reflecting its expanding reach and commitment to Christian higher education. Within a few short years, new buildings were dedicated, the first commencement was held in 1956, and students began traveling from across the nation and around the world to study God’s Word.
The 1960s and 70s brought continued growth and recognition, including full accreditation from the Accrediting Association of Bible Colleges in 1968 and regional accreditation in 1979. Through every change, the heart of the mission remained clear: to equip men and women to
serve Christ in their homes, workplaces, and communities.
A Leap of Faith and a Fresh Start
The 1980s marked a defining moment in MACU’s history. On May 9, 1984, ground was broken for a new campus in Oklahoma City, symbolizing a leap of faith and a new beginning. Just one year later, Gulf Coast Bible College officially relocated to its new home, embracing new opportunities to grow while holding fast to its foundation.
Even the Mayor of Houston took notice proclaiming April 17, 1985, “Gulf Coast Bible College Day,” honoring the school’s impact and blessing its future.
This bold move set the stage for decades of transformation. In the years that followed, MACU expanded its programs, deepened its ministry partnerships, and continued preparing students not only to learn well but to live out their calling with purpose.
Becoming Mid-America Christian University
In 1999, Dr. John Fozard became the University’s fourth president, leading MACU through a time of record growth and renewed vision. Four years later, in 2003, the institution took on its current name, Mid-America Christian University, capturing both its heart for the Midwest and its global mission to transform the world for Christ.
By 2006, MACU became debt-free, paving the way for expansion and innovation. New facilities like the Gaulke Activity Center, Kennedy Hall, and modern residence halls reflected the University’s continued commitment to fostering community, creativity, and excellence.
Through every milestone, MACU has stayed anchored in its mission: to prepare students through a Wesleyan perspective to create, collaborate, and innovate to solve local and global problems for the glory of God through Jesus Christ and the good of society.
A Hallway That Reflects a Mission
The new History Hall is more than a visual journey, it’s a reflection of MACU’s heartbeat. Each photo, plaque, and milestone tells a story of Greater Encounter, Greater Engagement, Greater Expansion, and Greater Expression — the four ENDS policies that guide MACU’s purpose today.
As you walk through, you’ll see not just how MACU has grown, but how it has remained faithful to its calling. From Houston to Oklahoma City, every step of the journey echoes MACU’s vision verse:
“Truly, truly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do, he will do also; and greater works than these he will do; because I go to the Father.”
JOHN 14:12
Dream Bigger. Do Greater.
Today, under the leadership of President Phil Greenwald, MACU continues to live out its motto: Dream Bigger. Do Greater. The History Hall stands as a reminder that what began as a small Bible college has grown into a vibrant University, shaping world changers for Christ.
As we celebrate this exciting addition to campus, we also celebrate the faithfulness of God; the same faithfulness that guided Dr. Gaulke in 1953 and continues to guide MACU students today.
So when you walk through the new History Hall, take a moment to reflect on where we’ve been, rejoice in where we are, and look forward to where God is leading. Because this isn’t just MACU’s history, it’s a story of faith, vision, and a community doing greater things for God and His Kingdom.