Saunders Center for joy and human flourishing
The Saunders Center at Abilene Christian University was established in fall of 2024 to honor the legacy of beloved preacher and friend to this university, Landon Brady Saunders (1937-2023). A visionary communicator and radio broadcaster, Landon founded “Heartbeat” radio in 1971 and served for decades as a spiritual mentor to business leaders and other Christian ministers throughout the world.
Our Mission
Inspired by his legacy, our mission is to explore and promote the essential elements of a joyful and purposeful life – a life of beauty, meaning, and significance; a life of joy, creativity, connection, and service; a life lived for something greater than oneself.
Our Approach
At the Saunders Center, we believe that joy and human flourishing are not mere abstract concepts, but achievable states that can be cultivated through intentional practices, meaningful relationships, and a deeper understanding of the most important questions human beings can ask. In keeping with Landon’s vision, we want all students to know:
- You have infinite value and worth
- Every human being matters, is welcome here and belongs
- Joy is not an end to be attained, but an energy we apply
- Flourishing is multidimensional; therefore, we seek the social, emotional, spiritual, relational and physical well-being of students
- You are invited to be part of a community of friends that talks about what really matters in life
Join us as we explore the pathways to a more joyful and flourishing life, building on the legacy of Landon Saunders and the Christian mission of Abilene Christian University.
Our Goals for 2025
GOAL #1
Create a physical space on campus where students can go to connect with God, themselves, and other people.
This space will be screen-free and have zones for rest, prayer, collaborative work, play, spiritual disciplines, and art-making. The space will also feature a listening corner where students can put on a pair of headphones and hear the voice of Landon.
The new Saunders Center for Joy and Human Flourishing will be located in the Mabee Auditorium wing of the Brown Library at ACU. Please click here if you would like to donate to this ongoing construction / renovation project.
GOAL #2
Promote Interdisciplinary Faculty Research in the Areas of Joy and Human Flourishing
We will provide opportunities for faculty to network, collaborate, and present their research in the areas of joy and human flourishing through conference presentations, travel grant opportunities, a Landon Saunders lecture series, and more.
Visit the Faculty Resources page to learn more about ways in which the Saunders Center is supporting ACU faculty and ministry colleagues.
GOAL #3
Create, develop, and promote student-facing curricula and programs that continue the rich legacy of Landon Saunders’ work
Through meals and gatherings with faculty mentors, study abroad opportunities, workshops, undergraduate courses and experiential learning, students will have various opportunities to grow in the areas of joy and human flourishing.
Visit the Student Resources page to learn more about student events and offerings.
