How Vibrant, Christ-Centered Institutions Can Shepherd a Generation

Spend any time with a group of young people today, and you’ll quickly sense their unique blend of optimism and uncertainty. They have dreams as bright as any generation before them — hopes of meaningful work, rich relationships and lives of purpose. Yet, beneath that optimism often lies a quiet anxiety. They wonder: Am I truly ready for what’s next?

That question resonates deeply with those of us in higher education. As leaders, educators and mentors, we have the privilege, and the responsibility, to help bridge the gap between Gen Z’s hopes and their fears.

The latest findings from Gallup confirm what we often see in our own incoming students: 79% of Gen Zers believe they have a great future ahead of them, and yet just over half feel confident they’re prepared for it. This tension between hope and doubt offers a clear challenge to all of us working with today’s students.

While many Gen Z students hear about college frequently—with nearly 70% reporting they’ve heard “a lot” about it, according to NPR—many students feel unprepared and unsure about what college truly offers simply beyond a degree.

I believe institutions that go beyond traditional academics to nourish the whole person and focus on purpose offer a lot more. They serve as places of transition and transformation where students engage in personal development and meaningful learning while being fully supported by a community of care and leave college with hope for fulfilling futures.

The Importance of Whole-Person Formation

Gen Z craves purpose, and they’re often unsure how to articulate or pursue it. Fortunately, institutions focused on whole-person formation are uniquely positioned to guide students in discovering their calling.

Whole-person formation encompasses the emotional, intellectual, physical and spiritual dimensions of each student’s development. When we engage students as whole people, we provide them with the tools to succeed in their careers and answer their deep desire to work toward leading purposeful, abundant lives.

This is where a Christ-centered education shines.

By integrating faith into every facet of the learning experience, we help students connect what they are learning in the classroom to a larger, life-giving purpose. This connection fuels their confidence, resilience and sense of direction.

In Proverbs 22:6 we read, “Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.” This wisdom speaks directly to the role of educators in helping students find their way. At Belmont, we strive to prepare students for the next step and a life of purpose, service and leadership. We accomplish this through programs that cultivate the mind, body, spirit, and soul, recognizing that the development of character is just as important as academic knowledge.

When institutions are intentional about creating opportunities for students to explore their purpose in ways that matter, students see the relevance of their studies to the world beyond college. Experiences like interprofessional collaboration, real-world problem-solving and leadership experiences are what build the confidence and hope Gen Z needs to thrive.

Placing an Emphasis on Meaningful Learning

According to Gallup’s recent findings, students who feel engaged in their education with a sense of purpose — who see the connection between their studies and their future — are significantly more likely to feel prepared for their future. Yet many high school students feel disconnected from their current learning experiences. More than four in 10 Gen Z students report they haven’t learned anything interesting in the past week, and over half say they don’t feel their schoolwork aligns with their talents or interests. This lack of engagement is a significant barrier to their sense of preparedness for the future.

Gallup’s research shows that students are most engaged when their teachers make the material exciting and relevant. In fact, 60% of Gen Z students say that their engagement stems from having teachers who bring energy and excitement into the classroom. When students are given the opportunity to engage with practical, hands-on learning that connects to their career aspirations or life outside of school, engagement soars.

Meaningful learning also hinges on the relationship between students and their teachers. Gallup’s findings reveal that nearly three-quarters of students say their most influential teachers are those who care about them as people, not just as learners. When we think about their transition into higher education, this personal connection is key. When students feel known and valued by their mentors and educators, their learning becomes more purposeful, and their confidence in their future grows.

Fostering a Community of Care

According to Gallup, mental health remains a significant issue. Only about one in five Gen Zers reports having excellent mental health, and those with poor mental health are far less likely to feel prepared for their futures. This connection between mental health and preparedness is striking — students with excellent mental health are seven times more likely to feel ready for the future than those who are struggling.

Christ-centered institutions play a deep role in fostering communities of care across their campuses. By prioritizing emotional and psychological support alongside academic success, students can navigate their challenges with resilience and confidence. At Belmont, we understand that a Christ-centered community can provide the kind of relational, emotional and spiritual support that students need to thrive – especially during their transition to college. Programs that promote mental well-being, peer relationships and mentorship are essential in helping students feel anchored and supported through the ups and downs of college life.

Creating spaces where students feel a genuine sense of belonging is key. Gallup’s data shows that students who are engaged and feel connected to their school are more likely to thrive, academically and in their overall well-being. Higher ed institutions, therefore, have a responsibility to offer opportunities for students to build meaningful connections — whether through campus organizations, residence life or faith-based groups that nurture both the spirit and the mind.

Belmont offers round-the-clock access to mental health counseling services, ensuring support for students even during breaks. Moreover, we’ve established The Office of Hope, Unity & Belonging, an intentional space designed to foster an inclusive environment where students from all backgrounds can find connection and community. These efforts, among others, reflect our dedication to creating a campus where every student can thrive and feel truly at home.

When students are part of a caring community, they gain the confidence to tackle life’s uncertainties. They know they are not alone in their journey and can rely on the support of mentors, peers and educators.

A Hopeful Path Forward for Gen Z and Beyond

I recently spoke with a Gen Z student who shared how much she had grown during her time at Belmont. She told me the academic classes shaped her and the people who walked alongside her — mentors, peers and professors — encouraged her to explore her purpose and gave her the confidence she needs to face an uncertain future. Her story reminded me of the incredible power a caring, Christ-centered community and meaningful education can have in transforming a life.

As educators, our challenge is clear: we must create vibrant, holistic environments where students are equipped with wisdom and with the emotional, physical and spiritual strength to thrive. By fostering purpose, engaging students in meaningful learning and surrounding them with a community of care, we can help this generation step into a bright future — and feel ready to lead it.