GCU Breaks Ground on New Ingram Honors College Building

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    Phoenix, Ariz. — Grand Canyon University held a groundbreaking ceremony Monday for the recently renamed Sheila and Mike Ingram Honors College, marking the start of major renovations to its future home on campus. The existing education building will undergo renovations beginning next week. Officials expect the project to take approximately four months, with completion targeted for the end of summer and the facility opening in time for the upcoming fall semester.

President Brian Mueller Speaks 


     GCU President Brian Mueller delivered remarks highlighting the significance of the Honors College, noting that its average weighted GPA of 4.1 exceeds those of Arizona’s other major universities, including Arizona State University and the University of Arizona. Mueller infused the speech with patriotic themes, describing America as “the greatest country in the world” and emphasizing the college’s role in developing leaders who will feed the hungry and help others thrive.

 He also addressed the growing importance of artificial intelligence, praising its “incredible capacity for good” while acknowledging its potential for harm. Mueller cited AI’s promise in areas such as affordable housing, stating that the technology could one day enable the construction of houses for as little as $10,000. A coalition of pastors, business leaders, and other community figures serve on the college’s board, alongside honorees Mike and Sheila Ingram.

Ingraham College Architect 

     Additional speakers included the project’s architect, ASGCU President Judah Floyd, and the president and vice president of the Honors College student body: Kaylee Aschbrenner (marketing major) and Adison Hamele (forensic psychology major). Floyd presented Mike Ingram with a signed basketball in recognition of his support.

ASGCU President Judah Floyd Speaks 

    In an exclusive interview following the event, Kaylee Aschbrenner described the experience as “incredible” and expressed gratitude to Mike and Sheila Ingram for their generosity. “I can’t wait to step into a leadership role next year,” she added. 

Kaylee Aschbrenner and Adison Hamele Speak 

Adison Hamele echoed the enthusiasm, saying, “It’s been amazing to see how this program has grown.” She highlighted the valuable networking opportunities, noting the chance to “collaborate with each other, with faculty, professionals in the valley and just the huge network” available through the Honors College.

FULL INTERVIEW



    









    The ceremony concluded with prayer and the official groundbreaking. The new Ingram Honors College building is expected to serve as a showcase academic centerpiece at the entrance to GCU’s campus, featuring collaborative study areas, maker spaces with advanced technology, student lounges, and indoor-outdoor gathering spaces. The expansion reflects the college’s continued growth and its mission to develop high-achieving students through rigorous academics, leadership, and community engagement.



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