Abilene Christian University

When Christian Education Falls Short: Public Awareness of Hidden Bias in Grading As a student of color navigating higher education, I have experienced firsthand how some professors’ unresolved personal biases can show up in their grading practices. These hidden prejudices often lead to disproportionately harsh evaluations of minority students, creating barriers that are difficult to challenge or even recognize. This harsh grading is not merely about academic standards—it reflects deeper internal biases that have not been addressed or overcome. Unfortunately, relying solely on a professor’s academic qualifications, such as holding a PhD, is not enough to guarantee fair or compassionate treatment of all students. Institutions must do more than hire based on degrees; they need to implement comprehensive plans of action to protect all students, particularly minorities who face disproportionate challenges. This includes: - Ongoing training on bias awareness and cultural competency - Transparent and consistent grading policies - Accessible channels for student grievances and support - Active accountability measures for faculty conduct Students like me, who depend on financial aid to pursue education, deserve an environment where justice and equity are practiced, not just preached. Public awareness of these hidden grading practices is essential to help prospective students make informed decisions and to encourage institutions to take meaningful steps toward true inclusivity. Christian higher education calls for justice and compassion to be at its core—not just in mission statements, but in everyday classroom practices. Awareness is the first step to fostering accountability and healing.

The ACU leadership camps are great and very meaningful. I don't like though how they always keep you guessing but I guess its a part of it though... They never let you know whats happening to you, where your going in a white van and pulling over and stuff makes you scared... I guess it contributed to the vibe though!

Strong sense of God's presence. Community is emphasized and followed through with. Knowledgeable and helpful staff that go above and beyond typical expectations. They care about their students and staff.

My daughter loved her first year. She can't wait to return for her sophomore year.

Won't stop emailing me after I unsubsubsribed to Ms. Long's reqcruting emails.

Great school with good profs and good degree programs. A delightful and winsome Christian environment. I did my BA and MA there. My only real complaint is with the financial aid department. I ended up with $80,000 in student loan debt (after a half-tuition scholarship) because no one bothered to explain how the process worked. I don't believe 18 year olds should be making those kinds of financial decisions.

youngest of 4 brothers who all attended Abilene Christian university and loved, valued and cherished every moment of our college lives and experiences !!! you will make friends for a life time and receive by far the greatest education hands down !!!! If you want your child or yourself to receive the best and greatest teachings and achievements along side the greatest role models and college professor's then look no further than the greatest Christian ( Church of Christ ) university this side of heaven, Abilene Christian University !!! I have been a part of Abilene Christian University since my oldest brother left for ACU in the fall of 1983 then my second brother starting ACU in the fall of 85 and my third brother starting ACU in the fall of 88 and then myself from 1992-1996 and remaining a loyal alumni to this very day, keeping in touch with beloved friends that still live in Abilene with some that work for ACU. my college years at ACU were certainly some of the greatest fondest years of my life !!! ACU sent me into the world a better man with a more profound love for my Lord and savior Jesus Christ and fellow man !!!

Very beautiful campus!! The people here are really nice. There are Bible verses all over campus including the Lunsford Trail. Jacob’s Dream Statue is my favorite thing to see at ACU. They have great social clubs for men and women.

I've visited ACU for Admitted Day on November and New Student Orientation two months ago in late June. Everyone are very nice. From all the colleges I've visited, I chose ACU because they have an excellent academic program, have a strong Music & Business department (I'm majoring in Music and planning to major in Finance as well), it is truly a Christ-centered environment not in name only, everyone makes you feel loved and you feel like you're at home. I cannot wait to attend ACU this fall.

I got accepted this year and received $26,000 but its a lot of money throughout the years that I couldn't really afford. I would have loved to go though. Great campus, good people, and nice surroundings.