A group of Abilene Christian University friends and leaders gathered with television personality and New York Times bestselling author Dr. Phil McGraw at a recent event in Dallas.

Dr. Phil Schubert (’91), ACU president, interviewed McGraw for an audience of ACU alumni and university leaders on topics including the role of Christians in society, media influence, resilience, societal challenges, and the importance of faith and family. 

“As the world speeds up, the value of this Christian community and the fellowship that goes with it, and the fellowship with God becomes exponentially more valuable,” McGraw said.

He also encouraged Christians to openly and confidently express their faith and values and called for critical engagement with media and educational content, advocating for a return to fact-based learning and reporting. His remarks emphasized the necessity of creating strong community bonds particularly related to the increasing influence of technology in society.

“Dr. Phil’s encouragement to be bold and stand firm in our Christian identity was so impactful,” said Rick Wessel (‘81). “It was energizing to be together with this group of alumni and friends, and the evening served as a great reminder of the breadth of the relationships formed through our shared experience at ACU.”

McGraw is a two-time Emmy Award-winning executive producer, a member of the Broadcasting and Cable Hall of Fame and the author of nine New York Times best sellers. After hosting the daytime TV program Dr. Phil for 21 seasons, in 2024, McGraw launched his own television network, Merit Street Media. In 2006, he was honored with the Presidential Citation by the American Psychological Association for his significant contributions to the field of psychology. He and his wife, Robin, are also involved in philanthropic work, including establishment of When Georgia Smiled, a charitable organization funding projects benefiting disadvantaged children and families. 

Abilene Christian University serves a diverse student population of about 6,000 with world-class teaching in a Christ-centered community. Founded in 1906, this national research university offers online and residential undergraduate and graduate programs. Students choose from 87 baccalaureate majors that include more than 171 areas of study, as well as 71 areas of study in master’s degree and specialist programs and four doctoral programs. ACU’s mission is to educate students for Christian service and leadership throughout the world. Learn more at acu.edu.

— Wendy Kilmer
June 14, 2024