AU News

Singer, songwriter, founding member of Elevation Worship and Anderson University Class of 2004 graduate Chris Brown will receive an honorary doctorate during AU Commencement on Friday, May 3.  

Winner of multiple GMA Dove Awards, two Billboard Music Awards and a Grammy, Brown is a worship leader at Elevation Church in Charlotte, North Carolina and has written popular contemporary Christian songs such as “Graves Into Gardens,” “Praise,” “Jireh,” “Same God” and “O Come to the Altar.” 

“My years at Anderson were some of the most formative, fun and unforgettable of my life. I never imagined the path God would put our family on after graduating, but I’m grateful beyond words that He loves exceeding our expectations with how He works in and through us.” 

Several of Elevation Worship’s albums, like CAN YOU IMAGINE? and Old Church Basement, peaked at #1 on the U.S. Christian charts. With Elevation Worship, he has collaborated with numerous bands and artists, including Maverick City Music, Brandon Lake, Kari Jobe, and Hillsong Worship. 

“Anderson University is enormously proud of Chris, who has served honorably as an ambassador for Anderson University,” said AU President Evans P. Whitaker. “He is just one example of the thousands of men and women who have used their Anderson University education to make an impact on our world for the cause of Christ and of Christian higher education.”  

Chris and his wife, Beth, live in Charlotte with their two children. Chris and Beth are both proud alumni of Anderson University, Class of 2004. Chris earned a degree in vocal performance, where his passion for ministry and worship leading merged. 

This year, Chris Brown lent an original song for Anderson University’s use in promoting the University. That video can be seen here.  

According to Niche.com, The South Carolina School of the Arts, a University-based performance conservatory, includes the top (#1) music program in South Carolina.