Grow Deep Roots

At Spring Arbor University, you will grow deep roots in Jesus Christ and our Christian community to thrive in a world of constant change.

What is a Brand Promise?

We are excited to announce the launch of our new brand promise, Grow Deep Roots, that replaces our previous brand slogan, Let Your Light Shine.

A brand promise is a proclamation of what an institution stands for and what it promises to deliver to its community. It is a clear and compelling statement that communicates its core values and vision for what students, alumni, and friends are investing in when they decide to become a part of the Spring Arbor University community. We believe that Grow Deep Roots captures our commitment to fostering a deep and meaningful relationship with Jesus Christ across students, alumni, and community members, cultivating academic excellence, and nurturing a close-knit community.

The process for developing this brand promise was a collaborative effort with TG Three, a higher education consulting firm that specializes in working with Christian colleges and universities. An interdepartmental brand committee utilized extensive research, interviews, surveys, and feedback from staff, faculty, alumni, and community members to identify the key elements of what makes SAU unique in higher education.

Rooted in the Concept

This new brand promise acts as a support to The Concept, our guiding mission since the 1960s:

Spring Arbor University is a community of learners distinguished by our lifelong involvement in the study and application of the liberal arts, total commitment to Jesus Christ as the perspective for learning, and critical participation in the contemporary world. SAU anchors itself to Jesus, the source of all life and learning.

“We believe this brand promise captures the truth of SAU expressed throughout our history; who we once were, who we are today, and what we aspire for in the future. We believe that Grow Deep Roots articulates a promise that goes with students beyond graduation. We’re excited for future students who decide to plant themselves in Jesus Christ at Spring Arbor University.”

Dr. Brent Ellis, Spring Arbor University President

Spring Arbor University's Priorities

Faith in Jesus Christ
SAU is anchored in Jesus Christ, the source of all life and learning.

Academic Excellence
SAU provides an education that grounds students in God's word, nurturing the pursuit of truth and wisdom.

Close-Knit Community
SAU cultivates a supportive, encouraging environment where students are nourished spiritually and intellectually.

Our Community Has Thrived For More Than 150 Years

"In my time at SAU, I had professors personally reach out to me to make sure I was headed the right direction. The intentionality of the staff and faculty helped me develop and grow in many ways. I still heed their advice to this day."

Jon Gerten '06, Video Marketing Strategist

"During my time at SAU, my professors have deepened my academic knowledge and nurtured my spiritual growth, providing guidance that aligns with my faith and personal development. Their dedication to a Christ-centered education has been instrumental in shaping both my academic journey and my values. I will be forever grateful for my time at SAU and the spiritual, personal, and educational growth I experienced because of my coaches and professors."

Blair Currie '24

"Spring Arbor University has helped me to cultivate deep roots in the greater Jackson community and my personal life by teaching me how to have real, deep relationships with people and with Jesus. I have learned to stand strong in my faith, no matter where I am or what I do and to view all I do through the eyes of Christ. Everyday I have the privilege to be in community with individuals who encourage, challenge, and celebrate these same things and I am incredibly grateful."

Andrew Phelps '21, Associate Director of Annual Giving