About Hesed University
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Greeting from President
Dear Friends,
It is with immense joy and heartfelt gratitude that I welcome you to Hesed University, a place where faith meets excellence, and creativity is celebrated as a reflection of God’s infinite beauty. As President of this institution, it is both an honor and a privilege to introduce you to a university uniquely dedicated to the fields of Art and Architecture, where innovation, inspiration, and service come together to shape future generations of leaders.
At Hesed University, we believe that the arts and architecture are not merely disciplines but sacred callings—vocations through which we can glorify God, serve others, and leave a lasting impact on the world. Our mission is to nurture students who will combine creative excellence with a heart for service, equipping them to design, build, and create with purpose and compassion. Whether through designing meaningful spaces, crafting breathtaking works of art, or envisioning sustainable futures, our graduates will be prepared to contribute to their communities with vision and integrity.
From the moment you step onto our campus, you will experience an environment shaped by Christian values and a commitment to holistic growth. Our faculty, staff, and students form a vibrant community that encourages spiritual, intellectual, and creative development. We aim to provide not just an education, but an experience that inspires you to think deeply, act faithfully, and create boldly.
Though Hesed University is in its early stages, we are filled with hope and confidence in the transformative power of our mission. We are building a legacy rooted in faith, compassion, and excellence—one that will grow stronger with each passing year and touch the lives of countless individuals and communities.
As we embark on this journey together, I encourage you to embrace the opportunities that await you here. Immerse yourself in the pursuit of knowledge, creativity, and faith. Allow this time to shape your talents and deepen your relationship with Christ. Whether you are a student, faculty member, supporter, or visitor, you are a vital part of the Hesed University story.
Thank you for joining us as we take these foundational steps toward a brighter future. May God bless you abundantly in all your endeavors, and may your time at Hesed University be one of profound growth, meaningful discovery, and inspired creativity.
Welcome to Hesed University—where art, architecture, and faith converge to transform the world.
With gratitude and blessings,
Leadership
President : Hannah Lee
Vice President : Kelly Lim
Art Director : Nancy Lee
Academic Director : Agnes Yang
Architecture Director : Sylvia Lee
Campus Director : Ezra Park
President
Hannah Lee
Vice President
Kelly Lim
Art director
Nancy Lee
academic director
Agnes Yang
Architecture director
Sylvia Lee
Campus Director
Ezra Park
Mission Statement
The mission statement of Hesed University serves as a foundational guide for the Board of Directors, faculty, staff, and students in shaping the culture, strategic planning, program development, and institutional priorities. It is the result of a thoughtful and collaborative process that involved consultation among the university’s founders, key administrators, faculty, and advisors who are deeply committed to the university’s ideals and goals.
Hesed University is committed to shaping Christian artists and architects who are deeply rooted in their faith and devoted to reflecting the likeness of Jesus Christ. We provide them with the practical skills and creative abilities essential for spreading the Gospel through art and architecture, while also empowering churches and mission centers across the globe. Our mission is to cultivate a generation of visionary leaders who, through their dedication to God’s calling, will use their talents in art and architecture to glorify God, expand His Kingdom, and embody the character of Christ in all aspects of their lives and work.
Our Vision
Our vision is rooted in God’s promise to create a world that reflects His beauty, grace, and truth. We aspire to see communities transformed through the power of art and architecture that glorifies God, equips His Church, and inspires hope and faith in a broken world. Guided by the values of Christlikeness and creativity, Hesed University seeks to nurture a generation of visionaries who will expand God’s Kingdom and illuminate His glory through their work and lives.
Mission Strategy
Hesed University fulfills its mission through an integrated program of Biblical, general, and professional education. Our approach combines rigorous academic training with applied practice in art and architecture, fostering a Christ-centered learning environment. Students engage in real-world projects that serve churches and mission fields worldwide, embodying the Gospel in creative and transformative ways.
The mission is further guided by five core principles:
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Faith Integration: Grounding all academic and creative pursuits in Biblical principles to cultivate a deep relationship with Christ.
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Excellence in Design: Encouraging innovation and mastery in art and architecture to meet the needs of a diverse and changing world.
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Service and Outreach: Preparing students to serve communities and mission organizations with skills that empower and inspire.
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Cultural Relevance: Equipping graduates to address contemporary challenges while staying rooted in timeless Christian values.
A Journey of Faith and Vision
God’s providence was evident in the gifting of a 13.52-acre property at 7725 Penrose Avenue, Elkins Park, Montgomery County, PA. This historic campus, formerly home to Temple University’s Tyler School of Art, became the foundation for Hesed University’s vision. With its rich legacy, the property’s purpose was redefined: to educate and inspire Christian designers and professionals who would reflect God’s beauty, grace, and truth in their work.
The establishment of Hesed University was not the work of one moment but a culmination of decades of dedication and prayer. Designers and professionals, moved by the story of the cross, devoted over 20 to 25 years of their lives to this mission. With tears and sweat, they laid the groundwork for an institution that would nurture a generation of Christian leaders in the fields of art and architecture.
While the Elkins Park campus undergoes significant renovations to prepare for its future as a hub of education and creativity, Hesed University took its first administrative steps by incorporating in Delaware on July 10, 2024. This milestone marked the beginning of its journey as an accredited institution. The university commenced offering online classes to meet the immediate needs of its community while striving to secure the necessary approvals and accreditation to solidify its standing as a higher education institution.
Hesed University’s mission is clear: to provide Christ-centered education that integrates faith and academic excellence. As the renovations progress and the university expands its programs, it remains committed to empowering students to become vessels of God’s transformative work in the world. Through its specialized focus on art and architecture, Hesed University seeks to inspire its students to create works that glorify God and foster the growth of communities grounded in faith, creativity, and service.
With God’s guidance and the steadfast dedication of its founders and supporters, Hesed University continues to grow as a light in the academic world, preparing the next generation to shine brightly for Christ in their callings.
Values
“I am the way, the truth, and the life.” (John 14:6) Hesed University acknowledges Jesus Christ as the ultimate source of salvation, wisdom, and truth, serving as the cornerstone for all education and practice.
The Kingdom of God
“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” (Matthew 6:33) Hesed University is committed to advancing God’s Kingdom through education, equipping students to serve as faithful stewards in their callings.
Creative Stewardship
Recognizing that creativity is a gift from God, Hesed University values the integration of faith and artistic excellence, encouraging students to reflect God’s beauty and grace in their work.
Community and Collaboration
Hesed University fosters a Christ-centered community that unites students, faculty, and staff in mutual support, collaboration, and the shared mission of glorifying God.
Access and Inclusion
Hesed University strives to make Christ-centered education accessible to students worldwide, especially to the children of missionaries and those dedicated to ministry, through both physical and virtual learning environments.
Integrity and Service
Inspired by the humility and love of Christ, Hesed University encourages students and staff to uphold the highest ethical standards, embracing lives of service and responsibility.
Excellence in Education
Hesed University is committed to providing rigorous and innovative education, continuously assessing and improving its academic offerings to meet the needs of the times while remaining rooted in biblical principles.
Institutional Goals
As a Christ-centered institution, Hesed University upholds and celebrates its biblical heritage, ensuring that all education and practices are deeply rooted in scripture and aligned with God’s truth.
Equip for Excellence
Hesed University strives to attain recognition as a leading institution in Christian higher education, emphasizing academic rigor and spiritual growth.
Engage in Ministry Support
Committed to supporting Christian mission and ministry, Hesed University develops programs and partnerships that empower students to serve faithfully in their communities and beyond.
Foster Creativity and Innovation
Hesed University integrates creative disciplines with a theological foundation, encouraging students to innovate and excel in art, architecture, and other fields as an expression of God’s glory.
Expand Accessibility
Hesed University seeks to make its Christ-centered education available to a global audience, utilizing online platforms and physical campuses to reach students wherever they are.
Promote Servant Leadership
Hesed University cultivates a culture of leadership grounded in humility and service, inspiring students and staff to lead by example in their faith and professions.
Commit to Continuous Improvement
Hesed University emphasizes ongoing assessment and enhancement of its academic and administrative practices to ensure the highest standards of quality and effectiveness.
Core Learning Outcomes
Hesed’s curricula are designed to develop these outcomes intentionally, ensuring that graduates are equipped with the critical thinking, creative problem-solving, technical proficiency, and spiritual maturity required to succeed in their professional fields and to adapt to a rapidly changing world.
Each program at Hesed, including its undergraduate and graduate offerings, defines additional program-specific learning outcomes aligned with its unique objectives. These program-specific outcomes complement the university-wide outcomes by requiring students to demonstrate advanced levels of proficiency and specialized application of their skills within their chosen disciplines.
The following are Hesed University’s core learning outcomes, expected of every graduate:
Faith-First Educational Philosophy
Human knowledge, creativity, and innovation are best understood and practiced within the context of biblical truth. This foundational perspective requires an approach to education that prioritizes and seamlessly integrates scriptural study, reflection, and application into every field of study, particularly in the disciplines of art and architecture.
This faith-first approach ensures that every student is equipped not only with technical and creative skills but also with a Christ-centered worldview, enabling them to glorify God and make a lasting impact in their professional and spiritual callings.
Statement of Faith
We believe in:
The Holy Scriptures as originally given by God, divinely inspired, infallible, entirely trustworthy; and the supreme authority in all matters of faith and conduct.
One God, eternally existent in three persons, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Our Lord Jesus Christ, God manifest in the flesh, His virgin birth, His sinless human life, His divine miracles, His vicarious and atoning death, His bodily resurrection, His ascension, His mediatorial work, and His Personal return in power and glory.
The Salvation of lost and sinful man through the shed blood of the Lord Jesus Christ by faith apart from works, and regeneration by the Holy Spirit.
The Holy Spirit, by whose indwelling the believer is enabled to live a holy life, to witness and work for the Lord Jesus Christ.
The Unity of the Spirit of all true believers, the Church, the Body of Christ.
The Resurrection of both the saved and the lost; they that are saved unto the resurrection of life, they that are lost unto the resurrection of damnation.
Hesed University Commitment to Students
Hesed University is committed to:
Spiritual Wellness
- Offering opportunities for students to grow in Christ as a dynamic, creative journey of faith.
- Encouraging practices such as scriptural study, prayer, worship, spiritual community, and discipleship to deepen spiritual formation.
- Cultivating a nurturing environment of grace, companionship, encouragement, and spiritual guidance.
- Inspiring students to embrace new ideas, perspectives, and cultural understandings within the framework of biblical truth.
- Promoting an educational experience that values diverse perspectives and engages with critical issues through a faith-based lens.
- Equipping students with the skills to learn continuously, apply knowledge, and adapt to change effectively.
- Encouraging students to recognize and embrace their feelings with honesty and humility.
- Supporting resilience by helping students navigate change and pursue positive outcomes.
- Fostering an atmosphere of joy, encouragement, and hopefulness.
- Maintaining a clean and safe campus environment to promote physical health and well-being.
- Offering recreational programs and activities that encourage healthy lifestyle choices.
- Providing education on balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and effective self-care practices.
- Guiding students to develop and contribute to positive, respectful, and Christ-centered relationships.
- Empowering students to excel in various social and group roles with confidence and effectiveness.
- Encouraging leadership that reflects Christ’s servant heart and contributes to communities and society at large.
Expectations on Student Commitment
As a condition of continued enrollment, students must:
- Reflect and uphold the principles and values outlined in Hesed University’s mission, vision, and statement of faith.
- Exhibit behaviors and actions that align with the spiritual, academic, and community standards of the university.
Statement on Institutional Approval
The university is committed to meeting the standards of excellence required for state approval and accreditation, ensuring compliance with applicable regulations. While Hesed University does not currently hold formal approval or accreditation, the institution is actively working toward obtaining the necessary authorizations to offer recognized degree programs and provide students with an exceptional educational experience.
As part of this process, Hesed University seeks to:
- Establish a strong foundation of governance, policies, and programs that meet regulatory and accrediting body standards.
- Pursue approvals from relevant state and national education agencies to ensure its programs align with academic and professional benchmarks.
- Uphold its mission to provide Christ-centered education in art and architecture while adhering to the highest ethical and academic standards.
