Transformative Partnership: Multnomah & Jessup

Multnomah University was established over eight decades ago to serve the city of Portland while equipping students with the academic and professional preparation to change the world. As the Multnomah Campus of Jessup University, we remain wholeheartedly committed to that mission. Due to growing financial challenges, declining enrollment, and economic uncertainties across higher education, we have passionately sought God’s guidance on the best path forward. We have a responsibility to our students—past, present, and future—to remain a relevant university, uncompromising on spiritual formation and academic rigor.

It was no longer financially feasible for Multnomah University to operate as an independent institution. The opportunity presented by Jessup University to collaborate with us in a “merger of mission” enables us to further the legacy of Multnomah while upholding the fundamental principles that we hold dear.

As the new Multnomah Campus of Jessup University, we remain committed to the transformational power of faith and learning. This partnership will not affect our small class sizes, faith integration, or world-class education. It will bring the addition of more innovative programs in technology, mental health, and healthcare, all rooted in Christian faith. Many of our faculty and staff will join us in the next chapter of Multnomah’s story, ensuring a seamless transition for our students while preserving our legacy and mission and providing them with the education and sense of belonging they have come to expect. Students will be able to continue in their current program, and all credits they’ve earned up to this point will be applied to their degree.

Although we hope all our students will stay with us for this next journey, those who do not wish to remain at the Multnomah Campus of Jessup University will have several teach-out options for their program to ensure their education is not interrupted. We will have representatives coming from Jessup in the coming weeks to help us support students through this simple transition. The students and their continuity have been our highest priority. We truly believe our students will love the changes and expanded opportunities that come with this partnership.

Multnomah University effective today will be called the Multnomah Campus of Jessup University. Over the coming months, as we work out details of this partnership there are systems and processes that will unfold. These process includes regulators and government agencies with whom we are working closely.

We anticipate that by February we will have an updated program list for fall 2024. Department chairs will be communicating updates with you and providing information on next steps and any actions needed on your part.

Multnomah intends to remain Multnomah University through the 2024 spring semester so there likely will be no impact on graduation.

Yes, students can balance up through January 5th. If you anticipate having issues with that timeframe please reach out to the Registrar as soon as possible.

There will not be any program changes until fall 2024; however, if you have any questions about classes to register for contact your program department chair.

In fall 2024 Multnomah will be officially a campus of Jessup University. You will fill out FAFSA for Jessup University. The FAFSA 24-25 application will be available December 31, 2023.

In spring semester, Jessup University will roll out a application and transfer process for Multnomah legacy students. You will be notified by email of your next steps.

Ensuring students are supported at every stage of this transition is our objective. Housing and campus facilities will continue to be unchanged for students at this time. At the appropriate time, any modifications to housing assignment policies or requirements will be communicated to students. We intend to maintain on-campus housing for our residential students for the foreseeable future and throughout the academic year.

The vast majority of our dedicated faculty and staff will be accompanying us during this transition. The commitment and knowledge they possess will be crucial in guaranteeing a seamless transition while safeguarding the heritage we hold in the highest regard. Jessup University is enthusiastic about enhancing the support we provide to our students in the future.

As the Multnomah Campus of Jessup University, we are formally integrating with their institution and “merging our missions.” There are still several logistical, legal, and regulatory complexities that will be addressed in the coming months. Further information pertaining to developments and alterations in the names of legal entities will be added to the Frequently Asked Questions section as we proceed. We will continue to update our Frequently Asked Questions page with additional information regarding changes as they occur and the legal entity name modifications occur.

Student organization structures, leadership opportunities, and extracurricular activities are not expected to undergo any modifications at this time. In the event of future modifications, our personnel will establish direct communication with impacted individuals to assist them in locating the most suitable option for their duration on campus.

The Multnomah Athletic program holds significant value for a considerable number of students. We will communicate and collaborate directly with coaches as soon as additional information becomes available regarding the specifics of this partnership in regard to all athletic programs. For now, all activities and competitions will continue as planned, and we will remain in the NAIA. Go Lions!

The academic affairs department at Jessup University will facilitate a smooth transition of all courses and credits from Multnomah University. Rest assured that complex procedures will not be a source of concern; we will furnish direction at the appropriate moment. In the coming weeks a team from Jessup will come to campus to help students officially transition through a simplified and expedited process. We will connect with all students to help them ensure a smooth transition regardless of their learning modality(online, undergrad, seminary, undergrad).

Yes, this transition will not impact your ability to complete your program and graduate on schedule, unless you alter it and add new, specific requirements. The graduation of every student is a top priority for us.

Jessup University loves Mitch as much as we do! You’ll continue to see Mitch around campus for the foreseeable future.

On-campus housing will continue to be an integral part of our education package. We are pleased to offer housing services to our students. For now, we have committed to not raise the price of on-campus housing in order to make this process as smooth as possible for our students.

Tuition will remain unchanged for the current academic year. The tuition and room and board expenses for 2024-2025 have not yet been determined; however, we have a firm commitment to maintain the current tuition rate. The Multnomah and Main Campuses of Jessup University will become comparable in cost as we grow, giving students the same benefits and opportunities.

Yes, mental health is something we take seriously, and we are committed to providing counseling services for all of our students. These services are a huge part of our heartbeat and value. We believe that the partnership with Jessup University will only increase the available mental health resources and services for students.

Faith remains Multnomah Campus’s foundation. The Jessup University main campus and our spiritual life team are excited to offer many opportunities for students to get involved and grow in their faith. Chapel and spiritual life formation will remain our campus’s priority. The same passion that drives us also drives Jessup’s Christ-centered education for students.

Absolutely! Jessup University’s Multnomah Campus will be accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), one of the seven major US college accreditation agencies.

Class times and schedules should remain unchanged this semester. You will be notified of scheduling and class changes for the upcoming semester.

You can email registrar@dbctl.com or drop in during office hours. Any transfer or teach-out will be simple and we will be with you every step of the way to make sure you land where God leads.

Your program at Jessup University may also allow you to transfer to the California campus.

Multnomah University graduates students on December 15, 2023. Spring graduation is planned for April as normal.

The partnership with Jessup University is grounded in our shared mission and values. For now, our conduct policies will remain the same.

At present, your chapel requirements will remain the same. If changes come, students will be informed but changes would not happen until next semester.

Jessup University values biblical education and will clarify specific Bible requirements as things unfold, but the intention would be a similar Bible core for all programs.

When in doubt, consult this online FAQ. Answers will be added regularly. Students will receive emails and answers to their questions in person as well.

Jessup has communicated a value and dedication to maintaining all we can for the MU legacy which includes undergrad, grad, and seminary programs. No changes will occur in fall 2023 with our programs. However, we do anticipate that in spring 2024 we will be rolling out new academic programs and structures integrated in the Jessup University portfolio.

Yes, Jessup University is a member of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities (CCCU) and the Multnomah Campus should remain part of the CCCU.

The Multnomah Lions will continue to exist independently in Portland, Oregon as its
own athletics department and continue to compete in the Cascade Collegiate Conference
and the NAIA for the foreseeable future. The Jessup Warriors in Rocklin, California will be
transitioning to the NCAA Division II for the 2024-25 academic year.

Jessup University, originally founded during the Great Depression in the 1930s, has a rich history and a strong commitment to Christian education. It started as San Jose Bible College and has since grown and expanded, moving to Rocklin, California in 2004. Today, Jessup University offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs, with a focus on educating transformational leaders for the glory of God. With state-of-the-art facilities and a diverse student body, Jessup University continues to provide an exceptional educational experience in a Christ-centered environment. Find more information here: jessup.edu

We will recruit students to come to the Multnomah campus to build this community together. We’re eager to welcome new students to the Multnomah Campus, knowing it will be a sustainable and missional place to pursue God and education.

We believe that Multnomah’s legacy is preserved and expanded through this transition. The support and involvement of our alumni is an important part of our continued impact in this world. The office of Alumni Relations will include some of the same wonderful faces you have known and loved to support you. Please contact alumni@dbctl.com with any questions.

Pray for peace and a renewed calling for all of our students. Pray for our dedicated staff and faculty to feel supported and honored during this transition. We ask the community to pray for open and compassionate hearts as we journey together to embody God’s call for humble and redemptive leadership. Finally, thank God for allowing this partnership to continue the Multnomah legacy.

The local church is CRUCIAL to the mission of Multnomah. We covet your prayers and continued support of students. We look forward to deepening relationships with churches in our community. The mission of Jessup University centers around the importance of church, as does Multnomah’s. Together in partnership with the local church we believe we can better live our mission of faith-integrated transformational learning.

If you have any further questions that aren’t covered by the FAQ, please refer to the fillable form available here. We will do our best to answer your questions directly or update this FAQ page with the relevant information to assist you effectively.

The campus itself will remain largely unchanged. However, in the next couple of months, you may notice new signage at the Multnomah Campus of Jessup University to reflect our new partnership. This campus has been our home, and Jessup considers it an essential part of our legacy.

We are excited about the partnership between Multnomah and Jessup University because of our similar missions and way of living them out. You can read more about Jessup University’s integration of faith and learning. Jessup is equally committed to Jesus, reconciliation, and renewal. Compelled by the love of Christ, we have discovered remarkable unity even amid our differences. We eagerly anticipate further exploration, as we aim to serve as an example of the body of Christ expanding the kingdom together.

Due to growing financial challenges, declining enrollment, and economic uncertainties across higher education, we have passionately sought God’s guidance on the best path forward. We have a responsibility to our students – past, present, and future – to remain a relevant university, uncompromising on spiritual formation and academic rigor. Though our financial realities brought us to this place, we believe God used this crisis to position us for an innovative partnership. We are thankful to be in a position to pursue interdependence, a path we believe God has led us to in His time and in His way for our good.

We are dedicated and committed to supporting our students in completing their education. Aid in student success will be given as needed by our Student and Social Impact and Academic departments.

Yes, students who have a hybrid enrollment status will continue their semester as is. Next semester ongoing enrollment requirements may change in the future. However, Faculty and Staff will all still sign a statement of faith.

Multnomah Campus of Jessup University

We do not take the loss of employment lightly. The severance packages of all individuals who will no longer work at the Multnomah Campus of Jessup University have been individually assessed and implemented with generosity in mind. Those leaving our community are beloved and they have all helped us get to this pivotal moment. We’re eternally grateful for their service to us and to the kingdom.

All current programs will remain active through at least the end of the 2023 fall semester. Programs will be assessed and a full list of programming offered at the Multnomah Campus of Jessup University will be available at the beginning of the spring 2024 semester. All current programs will be taught out to ensure no interruption to student outcomes.

Dr. John Jackson, who serves as the sixth and current president, and Phil Escamilla, Jessup’s V.P. of Academic Affairs and Chief Academic Officer, lead the executive cabinet in making organizational and leadership decisions for the day to day programming of the university. Long term strategy and direction for the institution is led by the trusted board of trustees. The Multnomah Campus leadership will fold into this structure but will have President Dr. Jessica Taylor and the current President’s Council remain in place at this time. The collaboration among the executive leaders has been inspiring, and they are all eager to see it flourish. The Multnomah Board of Trustees will nominate two members to join the Jessup Board, representing our voice and legacy.

We are so grateful for the time and care Multnomah University board has dedicated. In this new partnership two of the current Board of Trustee members will continue on as members of the Jessup University Board of Trustees.

This new partnership represents a necessary intervention in order to preserve the legacy of Multnomah while launching into the future. Without this partnership with Jessup University, the challenges of financial sustainability and declining enrollment left us with no viable path to continue independently. However, by becoming the Multnomah Campus of Jessup University, students can rest assured that the Christ-centered education and sense of calling they have come to expect will continue.

This collaboration also opens the door to new and innovative programs and majors, ensuring that students will have access to an even broader range of educational opportunities. We believe that this partnership is a testament to our commitment to providing students with a transformative and faith-based education, and the best is yet to come for our Multnomah community.

This partnership is not only good for Multnomah but also for the broader community. The introduction of new and innovative programs in mental health, healthcare, and technology will enhance the educational landscape and prepare students to excel in these rapidly evolving fields, contributing to the community’s development. Multnomah’s central location in the heart of Portland means that it can continue to serve as a beacon of faith-based education and a valuable resource for the surrounding area. By preparing the next generation of Christian leaders, this partnership fosters the growth of individuals who will positively impact the community and carry forward the legacy of Multnomah in new and exciting ways.

Our goal is to make this a seamless transition and for all of our students and employees to feel honored and cared for. Although we want you to stay with us for this next chapter, if you find that you no longer wish to attend the Multnomah Campus of Jessup University, please contact the Enrollment Office to explore your options.

The major difference in this transition from a catastrophic university closure, is that the facilities and programs will remain mostly intact, though under a different name. All your current course credits will transfer. In the event of a mid-semester closure without this option, the disruption to both employees and students would be substantial, not to mention the impact on our witness for Christ. Many universities are closing without a pathway for their legacy to endure. MU is blessed to live on!

Students remain responsible for any outstanding debt to Multnomah University.

Students needing to pay their balance in full can go to the business office or student accounts. Please contact financial aid with specific questions.

Yes, Jessup University will apply your current Multnomah University tuition discounts and will work to provide continuity in your cost of attendance in the coming transitions. Because we are committed to our students, we have decided that we are not planning unexpected or uncommunicated hikes to tuition and have committed to tuition remaining flat for the foreseeable future. Fees, the cost of books, room, and board, etc. are subject to change. However, students would be notified of these changes with plenty of time to plan. The total aid that students receive cannot exceed their total cost of attendance but we will work to ensure students are informed about their aid packages and their options to make the Multnomah Campus of Jessup University affordable and attainable.

Room and board costs will remain the same through the end of spring semester 2024.

We do not anticipate significant changes in job opportunities until the fall of 2024. We are actively working on plans to enhance various aspects of the student experience, including potential expansions in job opportunities on campus or remotely.

It is unlikely to present any challenges if your diploma states Multnomah University when applying for jobs. Employers typically prioritize the completion of a degree and the skills you bring to the specific role you are applying for.

International students planning to travel outside the country during Christmas break or working to renew their visas should maintain Multnomah University as their designated institution and use their current I-20. For any needed assistance or additional inquiries, please reach out to Amy Stephens, DSO for Multnomah University.

International students are advised to consider Multnomah University as their school for the foreseeable future, extending into the spring 2024 semester. There is no need to alter visas during this period. Once Jessup University is set up in Oregon and Multnomah has transitioned, international students will follow the standard procedure for transferring schools. This involves Multnomah University releasing the student’s SEVIS record to Jessup University, following which Jessup will issue a new I-20 for the new school.

Amy Stephens, Registrar and DSO for Multnomah University

Yes, as long as you maintain your status by remaining enrolled full-time and only participating in on-campus employment.

This will be a collaborative process. The Registrar’s Office and Success Coach Teams will be working together between the campuses to provide accurate information for students.

Prior to the implementation of the contribution agreement in, FERPA will still apply to students. In the new year, Jessup will be rolling out a process for students to apply and get set-up in systems. After that happens information can be shared.

Students need to complete a Leave of Absence form and follow LOA guidelines. If a student who is on an LOA applies to and returns to Jessup in the fall semester, without having enrolled with another institution in between, then the Multnomah Legacy benefits will still apply.

All employees signing a offer letter from Jessup University will be required to sign all standard documents, including statement of faith and community values. If there are concerns please reach out to the Jessup HR office.

Interim HR Director, Dr. Victor Reynolds, will be the Multnomah HR contact. For concerns or questions reach out to him directly.

We are still in the process of figuring out all of the details, but centralized services will not just start on one specific day, this is an ongoing movement and will be meticulously navigated for a smooth transition.

The current leadership structure at Multnomah is how empoyees will continue reporting. For questions about direction reach out to your direct supervisor.

Yes, all employee benefits will remain as they are until the end of the fall semester. If these education benefits will be changed, all changes will be communicated directly to all employees by the beginning of the spring semester. Only employees of Multnomah University or the Multnomah Campus of Jessup University may apply for CCCU benefits; CCCU benefits can only be extended to current University employees and their beneficiaries.

Yes, all employees will be entrusted with our community and therefore will need to sign a statement of faith.

The majority of faculty will remain, though some may have changes in their specific titles. Jessup values our faculty and their dedication and expertise. We are excited to better support our employees and we have made as little change to the faculty as possible though some of our beloved faculty will be reduced.

Employees seeking more information can find resources and updates on the Human Resources page of Multnomah’s website and through their HR contacts, ensuring that they are well-informed about the ongoing developments.

We are actively working to ensure job security for everyone we can and the smooth transition of employees, with a strong commitment to retaining our legacy through our people. Where there are reductions we are committed to communicating with our employees, caring for them and providing them as much runway for transition as possible. We plan to announce reductions immediately, but not to make changes until the end of the calendar year in order to give everyone ample time to transition well.

There may be some adjustments to titles, names of departments and employee roles. As always, we are dedicated to providing the highest quality care for our people and service to our students. We hope centralized services support our community even better than before.

Compensation, benefits, and retirement plans for staff and faculty will be carefully considered to ensure a fair and positive impact during the transition. We anticipate that most compensation will be comparable, but we hope with the power of a larger system that our employees will enjoy a more robust benefits package.

Professional development and training opportunities will be made available to staff and faculty as we transition to a new institution. Jessup is dedicated to ensuring we all continue to learn and grow as we lead our students.

Ongoing research and academic projects will be managed thoughtfully to ensure minimal disruption during the transition. Our Provost will help navigate this transition.

We are committed to providing the needed support and resources for staff and faculty who may need to adapt to new roles or responsibilities, fostering a smooth transition. Effective communication and collaboration with your supervisors, and your leadership is key to successfully navigate this new landscape.

While there may be some changes, existing academic and administrative policies and procedures will be reviewed and updated as needed to align with the new university’s vision and goals.

We deeply value the input and expertise of our existing staff and faculty, and they will play a role in the decision-making process as we shape the future of the new institution. While we cannot say who all was involved in this process there were dozens of our staff, faculty, and employees who were involved, who prayed for us, advised us and made this happen alongside our administration and board.

A clear timeline will be provided to staff and faculty to help them adequately prepare for the upcoming partnership, ensuring a well-managed and smooth process.

Multnomah University will be called Multnomah Campus of Jessup University.

The university’s partnership and merger of mission will bring about changes that will have a meaningful impact on the broader community and region it serves, fostering opportunities for growth, innovation, and continued educational excellence.

We are actively working to ensure a seamless and efficient process for the transfer of academic records and transcripts during this transition, making it as easy as possible for our students.

Our commitment to preserving the university’s legacy extends to our alumni, and our team is committed to keeping them engaged and connected to their alma mater. Regular emails and connection opportunities are available through the alumni office. Preserving our rich history while moving forward is a testament to our commitment to honor the past while embracing the future.

While details are still being finalized, there will be events and commemorations to honor the rich history of the original university and to mark the establishment of the new partnership. Please make plans to join us at our December 15th graduation, which will be our first collective opportunity to celebrate this transition alongside our graduates.

Diversity, equity, and inclusion are fundamental values that will be upheld and promoted throughout the transition, fostering an inclusive and welcoming community. Jessup also places a high value on remaining engaged in this important work as a Kingdom venture of reconciliation and hope.

We highly value the input and feedback from all stakeholders, and there will be multiple avenues for students, parents, staff, alumni, and financial partners to actively participate and share their perspectives during this transition. Submit your feedback here

To stay informed about the latest developments and updates related to the transition, individuals can keep refreshing this FAQ page as it will be continually updated. Individuals can expect regular communication through various channels, one being your email, ensuring everyone is kept in the loop and informed of progress.

As Multnomah University transitions as a campus of Jessup University, our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion remains unwavering because we believe the Bible mandates that human dignity and the good news are for every single person regardless of their difference. Grounded in exhibiting the fruits of the spirit, and in the picture in scripture of every tribe, tongue, and nation worshiping together (Revelation 7:9). We affirm the God given uniqueness of each individual. We believe that a unified, diverse community glorifies God and enriches our understanding and celebration of His Kingdom work on earth as it is in heaven.

The values of diversity, reconciliation and unity are shared by Jessup. Both Jessup and Multnomah presidents have expressed how coming together across even their personal identity differences in this divided world, in the unity of the Spirit is a picture of what the early church expressed because of their unity in Christ. The world seeks to divide along these lines and we will chose to protect the beautiful diversity of how God uniquely made us, while maintaining the commitment to be one body with many different parts (1 Corinthians 12:12).

View Multnomah and Jessup’s Diversity Statements.