In light of the philosophical, societal, and technological headwinds affecting higher education in 2025, Pepperdine president Jim Gash (JD ’93) 最近出版的 an op-ed in the 基督教学院与大学理事会（CCCU）杂志, which considers the biblical character Daniel and the importance of spiritual and missional faithfulness in the face of adversity.

Throughout “The Daniel Option: Pursuing Faithfulness Through Changing Times,” Gash calls upon faith-based institutions of higher education to follow the example set by the prophet Daniel, who, in the midst of duress, relied on God’s steadfast presence and provisions to flourish. 应用ing this lesson to the challenges facing colleges and universities today, President Gash implores institutional leaders to remain committed to their Christ-centered foundations.

“As we attempt to ‘read the winds’ across the landscape of higher education, many things are uncertain,” writes Gash. “But one thing remains constant: faithfulness to God is nonnegotiable. Our missions, should we choose to embrace them, provide us solid ground that does not change with the winds of culture.”

Addressing topics such as a looming enrollment cliff, AI, federal law, and even political violence, Gash surveys today’s higher education landscape and calls attention to the obstacles all institutions are currently facing. In the process, he details how these challenges uniquely position Christian colleges and their distinctive missions to meet the moment.

Secularism, Gash declares, is “losing its voice,” as more and more academic institutions are beginning to turn to people of faith for guidance and counsel. Noticing this cultural shift, he asks faith-forward colleges and universities to begin viewing their religious affiliation as an advantage in the current educational environment.

“It is my hope and prayer that we may take up our calling with renewed commitment,” writes Gash, “whether these future years ostensibly hold victory or defeat—knowing, of course, that final victory is assured.”

Read the full op-ed on the CCCU杂志 网站.