News

York University Holds Groundbreaking Ceremony

York University celebrated the groundbreaking of a major expansion to McGehee Hall, which will become the new home of the Smith and Mary Kite Center for Ministry. Funded by a $2 million gift, the project reflects the university’s commitment to equipping church leaders and strengthening ministry efforts...

5/1/2026

Equip Conference Continues to Impact Small Church Leaders

York University hosted its fourth annual Equip Conference March 16–17, continuing to grow in numbers and impact. Compared to the 185 attendees last year, this year’s conference left standing room only with 245 attendees from 80 churches. These church leaders represented 18 states and Canada, showcasing...

3/24/2026

Jim Coehoorn Recognized with Minister’s Heart Award

During the Equip Conference, Jim Coehoorn was honored as the recipient of the Minister’s Heart Award. The award, presented by Dr. Garrett Best, Chair of the Bible Department, and Dr. Anessa Westbrook, Co-Executive Director for the Kite Center for Ministry, recognizes individuals for their exceptional...

3/16/2026

Center for Ministry Holds First Internship Fair, Youth Ministry Workshop

Last week, York University’s Center for Ministry held its first internship fair in the Campbell Activity Center. Eleven churches and one camp from 10 states were represented, eager to share summer opportunities with students.

10/23/2025

Center Named in Honor of Smith and Mary Kite

During Alumni Chapel on Saturday morning of Homecoming, York University announced that the newly established Center for Ministry will be named to honor the lifelong Kingdom work of Smith and Mary Kite. The newly named Kite Center for Ministry will be housed in a renovated and expanded McGehee Hall, thanks...

10/18/2025

2026 Equip Conference Schedule Announced

The 4th annual Equip Conference is coming up next spring, with dates announced for March 16-17.

9/24/2025

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Center Announces Mission and Open House

July 3, 2025

York University will host an open house featuring its new Center for Ministry on Saturday, October 18, during Homecoming 2025. The center was announced when York was selected as a regional hub by Pepperdine University for a nationwide effort to empower and equip churches. The initiative is funded by...

York University Announces Leadership Team for New Ministry Center

April 25, 2025

York University is excited to announce the appointment of Dr. Anessa Westbrook and Dr. Scott Laird as co-executive directors of a newly established Center for Ministry. This initiative was first introduced earlier this year, when York University was selected to partner with Pepperdine University for...

Sean Algaier talking to students in the Prayer Chapel.

York Partners with Lilly Endowment for Rural and Small Town Initiative

January 7, 2025

York University announced a partnership with the Lilly Endowment to create programming and support for rural and small-town church growth. The grant for York University is part of a larger effort based out of Pepperdine University titled “Empower and Equip - Rural and Small Town Church Initiative”,...