Life Pacific University has been named the official School of Choice of the National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference through a new five-year partnership designed to expand access to Christ-centered higher education and leadership development for pastors, ministry leaders, students, and families across the NHCLC network.
Read the full NHCLC press release
“We are deeply honored by this designation and grateful for the trust it represents,” said Dr. Angie Richey, president of Life Pacific University.
Rev. Samuel Rodriguez, president of the NHCLC, emphasized the importance of education in shaping the next generation of leaders.
“Education continues to be one of the most powerful tools for transforming lives,” Rodriguez said.
Through this five-year partnership, LPU and NHCLC will create new pathways for NHCLC members and affiliated churches to pursue undergraduate, graduate, seminary, and bilingual academic programs. Together, LPU and NHCLC will focus on leadership development, academic access, and ministry training opportunities for current and future leaders called to serve the Church and their communities.
The Council for Christian Colleges and Universities also celebrated the announcement, stating, “Congrats to Life Pacific University on receiving this impactful distinction! It’s incredible to see Christian Higher Education continue to work to ensure all individuals have an opportunity to pursue and experience the transformative impact of Christ-centered education.”
The NHCLC is one of the nation’s leading voices serving Hispanic evangelical pastors, churches, and communities. Its mission to develop leaders who impact the Church, culture, and society through biblical truth and Spirit-empowered service closely aligns with LPU’s mission to develop students into leaders prepared to serve God in the Church, the workplace, and the world.
Learn more about Life Pacific University’s academic programs
This partnership also builds on a meaningful connection between LPU and Rev. Samuel Rodriguez, who served as the commencement speaker for Life Pacific University’s 2026 Commencement ceremony. His message to graduates encouraged students to walk in faith, lead with courage, and carry the light of Christ into the world. Watch the full commencement ceremony on LPU’s YouTube channel.
As a designated Hispanic-Serving Institution, Life Pacific University is committed to equipping diverse leaders through English- and Spanish-language education. LPU’s academic programs serve students across the country and around the world, providing Christ-centered preparation for ministry, business, education, and community leadership.
This new partnership comes during a defining season of growth for LPU’s Spanish-language academic pathways. Life Pacific University currently serves nearly 300 Spanish-language students and offers accredited pathways designed for pastors, church planters, ministry leaders, and emerging scholars, ranging from certificate-level ministry training to associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral studies. The recent consolidation of EFM College into Life Pacific University has further strengthened LPU’s ability to serve Spanish-speaking students in local church contexts across the United States and around the world.
Together with partners such as the Hispanic District of Foursquare Churches, AETH, NHCLC, Lilly Endowment, Angelus Bible Institute, and other denominational and ministry networks, LPU is continuing to expand theological education that is rooted in Scripture, formed by the Spirit, and designed to strengthen the local church.
For Life Pacific University, this five-year School of Choice designation represents an important step in making Christ-centered higher education more accessible to students, pastors, ministry leaders, and families across the NHCLC network.
