The grand opening of ACU at CitySquare in Dallas was hosted by ACU to display the work they’ve done so far.

CitySquare, located in Dallas is an organization that focuses on fighting poverty and providing means of education to those less fortunate. Dr. Stephen Johnson, dean of the Honors College, said ACU and CitySquare are working together to end poverty and spread awareness.

“ACU at CitySquare is a partnership between CitySquare and ACU to locate student learning in the real world to tackle complex problems and to form students missionally and vocationally,” Johnson said.

Although ACU at CitySquare has technically been open for several months, ACU hosted the grand opening event to show donors and other members of the community what ACU at CitySquare is about. Johnson said Jennifer Ellison, director of University Events, coordinated the event with representatives from University Marketing and Advancement.

“It was really just a chance for the donors to be able to see what a difference they’ve been able to make here in the heart of Dallas,” said Alan Songer, junior criminal justice and Spanish major from Tomball and student at CitySquare.

About 130 people attended the event and were able to listen to several speakers and see the many different aspects of ACU at CitySquare.

“Guests were given the opportunity to tour the facility and speak with ACU faculty, administrators and students about ACU at CitySquare,” Jonhson said. “A brief presentation included remarks from Dr. Schubert, Larry James, President and CEO of CitySquare, Dr. Johnson as well as a screening of the ACU at CitySquare video.”

Dr. Johnson said the event was hosted to shed light on all of the important things that ACU at CitySquare is trying to do.

“What is unique about the CEO Larry James, and the work that CitySquare does, is that instead of looking to give a handout, they look to give a hand up, and actively involve those neighbors struggling with poverty and homelessness in every aspect of what they’re doing,” Songer said.

“ACU wants to share the story of this important and innovative new partnership in Christian higher education with those who would like to partner financially with ACU in the launch of ACU at CitySquare,” Johnson said.