Banner for Chap Family News with a Chap LCU Logo and the words Alumni, Friends, Family.  Issue 1 for November 2024
Family Experiences the Best of Lubbock Christian University
Photograph of Buckley and Tammie Chappel

"It was the fall of 2023, one week before classes started and my wife and I found ourselves on the campus of Lubbock Christian University. We had visited over ten universities around the country in this process and found ourselves comparing every place to LCU. No other university we visited truly had a fair shake because it was being compared to the faculty at LCU, the athletic program, and the LCU community.

Finally, my daughter said, “Why are we doing this? Nothing can compare to what LCU has to offer.” She knew long before we did as parents what felt right to her. Once she was able to put into words her why for choosing LCU, we were headed straight for Lubbock, Texas!

As we got our daughter settled, we went around campus and met different faculty and staff. It was somewhat of an eerie feeling because everyone was welcoming, everyone had time for us, and everyone seemed to care. My wife and I both said this will wear off after a week or two and we will see the “real LCU” over time.

Now, one year later, all we can say is that it is even better than we experienced that first week on campus. Faculty and staff care more than we ever thought possible. The community and education are even better than we signed up for and we didn’t think that was possible.

Lubbock Christian University is an incredible place, but it is the people at LCU that make this a truly indescribable environment for our child and family to be a part of.

We are thankful we chose Lubbock Christian University. As a family, we have experienced the hands and feet of Jesus in so many ways."

Buckley and Tammie Chappell
Dallas, Texas

Faculty Spotlight
Photo of Andy Laughlin

Dr. Andy Laughlin
Professor of Natural Sciences

Dr. Laughlin began teaching at LCU in the fall of 2005. He chairs the Natural Sciences department, and teaches Animal Physiology, Reproductive Physiology, and Human Anatomy and Physiology I and II. Dr. Laughlin also coordinates a medical mission trip to Peru each year and advises animal science, pre-veterinary, and pre-medical students.

Staff Spotlight
Photograph of Rhonda Pool

Rhonda Pool
Admissions Operations Manager

If you became an LCU student anytime in the past 23 years, chances are you know Rhonda Pool. She has been a welcoming force in LCU’s Admissions department for her entire career here. Rhonda loves being a Chap because of the love and support found throughout the campus community.

Student Spotlight
Photo of Jaivan Alvarez

Jaivan Alvarez
Junior Accounting/Finance Major

Jaivan is a Cornerstone Scholar from Plainview, Texas. He serves as a Resident Advisor in Gullo Hall and an Intramurals Director for Alpha Chi Delta men’s social club. Jaivan also helps host events for Juntos, the Hispanic organization on campus. His love for the LCU community is what inspires Jaivan to be involved on campus and to connect with fellow students.

Give Back Today!

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Rip Griffin Center Expansion Provides Opportunities for Players, Coaches, and LCU
photo of Maci Mattox dribbling a basketball in a game

"The expansion on the RIP is such a huge stepping stone for LCU’s athletic programs and the university as a whole. This will benefit players, coaches, and possible future recruits. When athletes come on visits, hopefully to make this their future home, the expansion on the RIP will boost their thoughts on what our athletic programs are about. We are so thankful for all the generous people who helped make this happen. As an athlete, I believe a practice gym is honestly something that every university should have. It is extremely difficult to put in extra work when our one court is being shared between 3 different teams. This will give athletes the opportunity to be in the gym more and have the chance to work on their game. The expansion will not be done until after I graduate, so sadly I won’t be able to use it, but I cannot wait to see how it looks when it gets finished! LCU is such a special place with the most amazing people, who genuinely want what’s best for you. As a player on the Lady Chaps Women’s Basketball team, I would like to thank everyone who has poured into this university and our athletic programs. We would not have what we have today if it wasn’t for you guys."

Maci Maddox
LCU Graduate Student
Lubbock, TX