Steven Curtis Chapman Inspires Students at Colorado Christian University
Legendary artist hosts masterclass, engages with community and shares musical journey
LAKEWOOD, Colo. – Colorado Christian University (CCU) welcomed Steven Curtis Chapman, the most awarded artist in Christian music history, and Mary Beth Chapman, his wife, to campus Friday, Feb. 7, 2025. The Chapmans delivered a powerful day of mentorship, music and inspiration during the second event in CCU’s President’s Speaker Series.
Chapman, a five-time Grammy Award winner, 60-time Dove Award recipient, and Grand Ole Opry member, led an exclusive masterclass for nearly 100 CCU School of Music students.
Six selected students had the opportunity to share their original compositions, receiving direct feedback from Chapman.
"Don’t tell them—show them with your lyrics," Chapman charged CCU’s students. "When we offer up the gifts that have been entrusted to us, that can be used for God’s glory, amazing things can happen."
That evening, 140 donors, faculty, staff and select students gathered for an exclusive dinner hosted by CCU Advancement. During the dinner event, two scholarships were awarded—one from the College of Undergraduate Studies and one from the College of Adult and Graduate Studies.
"Steven and Mary Beth Chapman are a beloved couple whose heartfelt songs reflect their faith and love for Jesus Christ,” said CCU’s President Eric Hogue. “Through their transparent and sincere faith, they have given glory to Him in their marriage, music and ministry."
Chapman took the standing-room-only audience in McDonald Performance Hall on an encouraging journey through his life and faith, intertwining award-winning music and emotional testimony.
CCU President Eric Hogue and First Lady Tammy Hogue went deeper with the Chapmans during a moderated Q&A session, where the couple shared insights into their Christ-centered lives, marriage and careers.
"My wife has already given CCU the highest compliment possible—she said that our granddaughter will most certainly be considering CCU when the time comes," Steven Curtis Chapman said on behalf of Mary Beth Chapman. "This is a very special place. You can feel it."
This event was the second in CCU’s newly launched President’s Speaker Series, which features leading voices from politics, business, the arts, and more who explore the intersection of faith and real-world action.
CCU’s Presidential Speaker Series continues April 24, 2025, with Jeremy S. Adams, bestselling author of “Hollowed Out: A Warning About America's Next Generation” and award-winning educator, who has dedicated 27 years teaching government and economics and 16 years as a political science lecturer.
Learn more about CCU’s School of Music and the Presidential Speaker Series at ccu.edu.