any Grace Christian University alumni have stories filled with cherished memories, lifelong friendships, and impactful experiences. Recently, a few alumni gathered to reminisce about their time at Grace and reflect on how the university shaped them. Here, we’ll share their stories of friendship, faith, and unforgettable moments.
Meet the Alumni
Kyle Bohl graduated in 2004 with a dual degree in Kinesiology from Cornerstone and a Bachelor’s in Religious Studies from Grace (then known as Grace Bible College). Today, he serves as the Associate Vice President for Student Affairs and Athletics at Grace Christian University.
Chris Fulford attended Grace from 1999 to 2001 before graduating from Northwest University with a Bachelor’s in Secondary Education.
Ron Merrihew also graduated in 2004 with a degree in secondary education, focusing on social studies and physical education.
Lifelong Friendships That Started on the Court
Kyle, Chris, and Ron meet at Grace through their recruitment in the 1999 basketball season. Kyle, Chris, and Ron were part of a group of nine or ten freshmen who joined the Grace basketball team. They quickly formed friendships and made the dorms at Grace their home. Reflecting on their journey, Kyle shared, “We took over the dorms; it ended up being a basketball dorm for the most part. We learned a lot about how to navigate our lives as young men maturing.”
For Chris and Ron, their friendship began even earlier, in the fifth grade. “Ron was a big part of why I attended Grace, along with Coach Jimmy Moore,” Chris recalls. Their shared experiences created a friendship that extended beyond the court.
Favorite Memories
When asked about their favorite memories, it was clear that their time at Grace was filled with many memories. Road trips and NCCAA national tournaments stood out as some of the highlights.
Kyle and Chris even share the same birthday. One year, during a regional tournament road trip, their families surprised them with a birthday celebration on the road. Chris fondly remembers how Kyle’s parents brought cake and ice cream for them.
Kyle adds, “I don’t have a ton of memories of just basketball; it’s the times we had in the dorms, in the vans during road trips, and just sharing life with each other.” The connections they made at Grace transformed into a lifelong brotherhood.
Advice for Current Students
Now, with 25 years since their freshman year, these alumni share valuable advice for current Grace students. Ron emphasizes the importance of building friendships, stating, “Twenty-five years later, we can still sit together, laugh, and remember all the great things that happened during our time here.” He encourages students to take advantage of every opportunity and be themselves.
Kyle adds, “The friends you meet at Grace will be some of the best friends you will have for life. Put God at the center of every relationship and live a full life.” He stresses the importance of stepping out of one’s comfort zone to truly experience all that Grace has to offer. “If you just come for classes or practice and then leave, you’re not going to receive the full experience. Allow the Grace community to pour into your heart and help you grow.”
Chris echoes these sentiments, highlighting that Grace provides a supportive environment where students can thrive spiritually and academically. “If you’re about Jesus and want to be part of a community that lives and grows together, this is the place.”
Overcoming Adversity and Building Resilience
For these alumni, Grace wasn’t just about academics or sports. It was about facing challenges and building resilience. Ron shares his personal story of being diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) during his time at Grace. Although his health struggles kept him from playing basketball for his entire college career, he continued to stay involved with the sport and support his teammates.
Since graduating, Ron has served as an assistant men’s basketball coach at Grand Valley, where he earned two championship rings, and has also coached at Cornerstone and local high schools. His commitment to athletics and his faith serve as an inspiration to current students.
The Lasting Legacy
The strong bonds these alumni formed during their time at Grace have stood the test of time. Chris even met his wife during his freshman year, and now two of their children are students at Grace. He is excited to see his kids grow academically and spiritually in the same community that shaped him and his wife.
Kyle emphasizes that the relationships and experiences at Grace create a lifelong impact. “This time goes fast, so take advantage of every moment. Try new things, get involved, and remember, you’re surrounded by people who genuinely care about you.”
Final Thoughts
If you’re considering attending Grace Christian University, know that it’s more than just a place to earn a degree. It’s a community that will pour into your life, challenge you, and support you through every step of your journey. As Ron puts it, “If you want to be in a place where you’ll be loved, supported, and surrounded by people walking with the Lord, this is that place.”
At Grace, you’ll find friends who will become family, experiences that will shape you, and a supportive environment that will help you grow in your faith. As Chris sums it up, “It’s a biblically centered place, and we’re all about Jesus, loving our people, and building the kingdom.”
So, if you’re looking for an environment that fosters spiritual growth, academic excellence, and transformational relationships, Grace Christian University may be the place for you.
