History of the College

Clearwater Christian College began with a burden in the hearts of the founders concerning the trends in evangelical colleges away from biblical standards of morality and from the historic Biblical fundamentals.  The founders perceived a growing casual attitude toward doctrine and lack of emphasis on personal soul-winning.   They were burdened about the trends in Christian colleges toward the ecumenical movement, new evangelicalism, and ecumenical evangelism.

In July, 1965, the possibility of establishing a Christian college on the west coast of Florida came closer to reality after an exploratory trip to Florida by Dr. Arthur E. Steele.  This was followed by a year of calling on pastors in the area and surveying the possibilities of and the need for a Christian college. Dr. Steele then moved his family to this area. Many friends made themselves available to help with the founding of this college. The College acquired 50 waterfront acres at the eastern entrance to the city of Clearwater.

On September 17, 1966, fifteen students enrolled as the first class of Clearwater Christian College. The Lord providentially supplied funds, friends, faculty, facilities, and a promising student body.  The great enthusiasm and sense of expectancy during that first year has continued. The college board, administration, and faculty were persuaded to align itself with the possibility of regional accreditation. After much prayer and preparation, Clearwater Christian College received full accreditation from the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS-COC) in December 1984 and in 1999 gained reaffirmation for SACS-COC accreditation. This recognition by a secular, non-governmental agency signified the college's commitment to basic educational standards as compared with other accredited colleges and universities without compromising its historic position on doctrinal issues or its high standards of personal conduct. In 1994, the college received from the state of Florida approval for its teacher education programs. This approval allows students to go on to state certification. The College has been listed in US News & World Report's America's Best Colleges for over a decade.

In 1986, the College celebrated twenty years of operation under the leadership of Dr. Steele.  In January, 1987, the Board of Directors named Dr. George D. Youstra to succeed Dr. Steele as president.  Dr. Youstra brought an extensive record of accomplishments in Christian education and government to this leadership role at the college.  Since 1987, the college enrollment has more than tripled, new buildings have been added, 88 additional acres have been acquired, and new programs offered.

In May 2002, Dr. Richard A. Stratton assumed the presidency. In addition to his heart's desire to preach, Dr. Stratton brings to his position a wealth of experience in education and business.

Through the years, the college "family" has seen the Lord provide miraculously for the continuance of the ministry.  This provision is due to the position the college has taken against doctrinal extremes, apostasy, and error, and its commitment to the fundamentals of the historic Christian faith.  Clearwater Christian College began in the will of the Lord through much prayer and will continue to operate seeking His guidance, protection, and provision.