BUILDING LONGEVITY AND SUCCESS Momentum is Building at IWU
In a time when many colleges are struggling with enrollment declines and financial pressure, IWU is moving in the opposite direction. IWU’s five-year Momentum Plan is a roadmap for growth rooted in Christian faith and purpose. The plan outlines institutional priorities designed to strengthen IWU’s sustainability, expand educational access, and advance its Christ-centered mission.
The plan focuses on three areas: developing innovative educational pathways, forming strategic partnerships, and fostering a culture that equips transformational leaders to serve locally, nationally, and globally.
YEAR STRATEGIC PLAN GUIDING INSTITUTIONAL GROWTH AND RENEWAL
STRATEGIC INITIATIVES
MAJOR CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS
Hospitality and Campus Renewal
In December, IWU will open its first Welcome Center on the Marion campus, a new hub for hospitality and connection. The space will serve students, employees, alumni, families, and community members while modeling biblical hospitality.
IWU has also reaffirmed its commitment to Kingdom diversity through new Spanish-language campus tours, multilingual signage, and literature available in multiple languages.
Construction is also underway on the I Am Third Arena, set to open in fall 2026. More than an athletic venue, the arena will be a ministry platform reflecting IWU Athletics’ mission of putting God first, others second, and self third. Coach Greg Tonagel, D.Min., and his basketball program have lived that philosophy on and off the court, raising the program’s visibility and strengthening IWU’s spiritual mission.
Strengthening the Church
Through Wesley Seminary, IWU continues to strengthen the Church for a new era of ministry. The 21st Century Church Initiative equips pastors and ministry leaders with practical tools, spiritual encouragement, and Christ-centered community. At its core is The Lantern, a space where ministry leaders can connect, learn, and find renewal for their calling.
“The Lantern is helping us create an ecosystem where theology and practical ministry come together and where leaders grow through shared learning, relationships, and real community,” said Yamil Acevedo, executive vice president of Wesley Seminary.
“This initiative reflects IWU’s heart for the Church, nurturing leaders who serve with wisdom, compassion, and a steadfast focus on Christ.” Learn more at lanterncenter.com.
Expanding Educational Pathways
IWU continues to invest in innovative models that prepare students for meaningful work. Among these is the Texas Teaching Initiative, which offers affordable and flexible pathways for aspiring educators to earn degrees and licensure while working in their local K-12 school districts.
Now serving more than 90 such districts, the program reflects IWU’s commitment to combining innovation with mission. “The Texas Teaching Initiative has completely turned the traditional teaching model on its head,” said Justin Terry, Ed.D., superintendent of Forney Independent School District near Dallas.
Through IWU’s “Learn and Earn” structure, students work in classrooms as aides while completing online coursework, reducing costs and accelerating their path to teaching. More than 150 graduates of the program now teach in Forney ISD schools.
“WORKING WITH INDIANA WESLEYAN IS SO REFRESHING. THEY ARE INNOVATIVE AND FLEXIBLE IN MEETING STUDENT AND SCHOOL PARTNER NEEDS.”
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JUSTIN TERRY, ED.D.
Superintendent, Forney ISD
Supporting Families Through Christian Care
The Momentum Plan’s commitment to service extends to IWU families and the broader Marion community. The new Westminster Wildcats Early Learning Academy, a partnership between IWU and Westminster Preschools, provides high-quality, faith-based childcare for IWU employees and local families.
“High-quality, accessible childcare is essential for families in Grant and Marion County,” said Jon Kulaga, Ph.D., IWU president. “This partnership allows us to extend care and hospitality in a meaningful way.”
For IWU employees Stenway and Shelby Louvé, the new academy near campus has been life-changing. “The academy meets an essential need for families,” Shelby said. “It’s a reliable, well-operated, faith-based option that helps us balance work and parenting.”
A University Moving Forward
While many institutions face contraction, IWU is advancing its mission through growth, creativity, and service. From equipping teachers in Texas classrooms to supporting parents in Marion and preparing pastors for global ministry, the Momentum Plan is shaping a future defined by faith, innovation, and hope.
TOTAL BUDGET
TOTAL COMMITTED (NOV 2025)