Alexander Campbell – a pioneer in the Restoration Movement and what today is called the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) – wrote in 1854: “Colleges and churches go hand in hand in the progress of civilization.” The establishment of colleges and theological institutions symbolized the commitment of the Disciples of Christ to academic excellence and spiritual growth.

For 130 years, Higher Education and Leadership Ministries has promoted Christian education by assisting colleges and other educational institutions fostered by the Disciples of Christ. Today, there are 15 colleges and universities and 7 theological institutions that are connected to the Disciples. These educational institutions have served as crucibles of transformation, shaping the minds and hearts of countless individuals who have gone on to make a positive impact on the world around them.

HELM today is embarking on a new journey. While maintaining its commitment to supporting and fostering the historical connection with these schools of higher education, HELM seeks to become the one stop location to connect high school students through post-doctoral students with distinctly Disciples-related scholarships and leader development programs.