Abilene Christian University (ACU) proudly announces the launch of the Applied Research Center (ARC), a new initiative that empowers students and faculty to engage in meaningful, high-quality research that addresses real-world challenges and generates innovative, community-driven solutions.
Rooted in ACU’s commitment to faith and scholarship, the ARC serves as both a resource hub and a collaborative space for research that impacts local and global communities. The center provides a range of services, including research education and training, support for faculty and doctoral student research, seed funding and facilitation of community-based research partnerships.
“Research at ACU Dallas is more than academic—it’s a reflection of our commitment to serve, to question deeply, and to innovate with purpose,” said Dr. Jennifer Butcher, Vice Provost for Research, Writing & Special Initiatives. “The Applied Research Center is a vital expression of that mission, empowering our community to seek knowledge that transforms lives and creates meaningful impact.”
Inspired by the biblical story of Noah’s Ark (Genesis 6:14–22), the ARC symbolizes a vessel of preservation, renewal and hope. In this spirit, the ARC is a sanctuary for ideas, fostering resilience and forward-thinking solutions in a rapidly changing world.
Key features of the ARC include:
- Training and Resources: Workshops and materials to enhance research knowledge and skills for students and faculty.
- Funding Support: Seed grants for faculty research and guidance in securing external funding.
- Student Fellowships: Research opportunities and mentoring for students at all levels.
- Recognition and Publication: Annual research conferences, awards for research excellence and publication opportunities.
- Collaborative Research: Support for student-faculty partnerships and multidisciplinary research through ARC Collectives.
- Community Engagement: Partnerships with local organizations to co-create research that addresses shared challenges.
“Through the ARC, we are equipping researchers not only with knowledge and tools, but with a deeper purpose—to serve others through discovery and innovation,” said Dr. Raquel Ellis, ARC Director.
The ARC Collectives, composed of faculty, students and community partners, are a cornerstone of ARC’s collaborative approach. These groups work across disciplines to pursue research, apply for external grants, present at conferences and publish in peer-reviewed journals.
“The ARC is more than a center—it’s a movement to harness academic inquiry in service to others, guided by our Christian faith,” said Dr. George Saltsman, Provost & Vice President of Academic Affairs for ACU’s Dallas campus.
For more information about the Applied Research Center and how to get involved, visit acu.edu/arc or contact arc@acu.edu.
