Grand Canyon Education Elects Jerry Colangelo to Its Board

Many business analogies can be made by drawing on sports experiences, and Grand Canyon Education Inc., owner of Grand Canyon University (GCU), said that it will now benefit from someone who is steeped in this world with the addition of Jerry Colangelo to its board of directors.

"With its traditional campus atmosphere, commitment to athletic programs and unique business model all structured within a faith-based framework, Grand Canyon University is an institution that makes me excited about the future of higher education," Colangelo said. "It has a 60-year heritage of producing graduates and professionals who are invested in their communities, and with its expanded base of more than 25,000 students throughout the country, GCU's community minded spirit extends well beyond Arizona's borders."

Recognized as one of the most influential figures in sports business, and current Chairman of USA Basketball's Board of Directors and Managing Director of USA Basketball Men's Senior National Team program, the Company said that Colangelo is a leader with the vision to help Grand Canyon Education further its goals as a leader in market-supported higher education. Colangelo is familiar with many of Grand Canyon University's prominent athletic alumni, among them former Phoenix Suns' basketball player and current Sacramento King's Head Coach Paul Westphal.

As evidenced by his involvement in dozens of boards over the years, from arts organizations to community revitalization efforts, Jerry Colangelo's expertise and impact go far beyond the sports world.

"He's an individual that enterprises seek out because of his intellect and strategic vision," said Grand Canyon Education's Executive Chairman Brent Richardson. "He will be a tremendous advisor to Grand Canyon Education as we enhance our campus and grow our unique business model," he said.

GCU will soon kick off a new basketball season with hopes of leading its basketball programs to greater levels within the NCAA. Colangelo's insights from owning two sports franchises and his involvement in the Phoenix community will help as Grand Canyon Education's profile in Arizona and beyond continues to grow.

"Jerry's strong Christian faith, his business successes and his insights as an international leader in sports will be great assets as we continue to evolve as Arizona's private university," said Grand Canyon Education's CEO Brian Mueller.

Grand Canyon University is a traditional regionally accredited, private, Christian university offering campus-based and online bachelor's and master's degree programs through the Ken Blanchard College of Business, College of Education, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, and College of Liberal Arts.

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