Turning Point USA CEO Erika Kirk made a surprise visit to Grand Canyon University students during their chapter meeting on March 27. The unexpected appearance took place as students gathered for what they believed would be their final Turning Point USA meeting of the term.
Kirk’s visit was significant for the student group, as she discussed ways to enhance Turning Point USA’s presence on college campuses. Luke Anderson, president of the university’s chapter, said, “This means a lot. She mentioned Charlie (Kirk, her late husband and the organization’s co-founder) loved GCU and us as a chapter, a Christian university. And being so close to headquarters, we are really solid ground here where students should go to for insight and guidance.” Anderson added that Kirk’s presence was meaningful not just for him but for all members.
During the meeting in a Colangelo College of Business lecture hall, each club member presented on recent events in Iran before realizing Kirk had joined them. Junior Jett Shea said, “I did a double-take, I had to make sure it was her. This all started with her and Charlie, so it was great to show the fruits of what they created.”
After being introduced by Anderson at the end of the session, Kirk asked students about their needs from Turning Point USA and areas where they wanted more support. Students raised questions ranging from work environments and higher education to marriage and citizenship. Freshman Jordan-Capri Dailey reflected on balancing career and life after hearing from Kirk: “If God is really telling you something, He will make a way for you to do it. It meant a lot that she took the time out of her schedule and sat in the back of our meeting… It was a great opportunity for us to hear from her and for her to hear from us.”
Grand Canyon University is located in Phoenix, Arizona according to its official website. The private Christian institution offers undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as nursing, business and healthcare with both campus-based and online learning options according to its official website. The university centers on Christian values aimed at supporting students’ potential while earning degrees according to its official website, with high rankings noted by Niche.com as reported by its official site.
