This story appeared in the Palm Beach Neighbors’ February 2026 issue.
A new year brings anticipation, excitement, and hope for what’s to come. At Palm Beach Atlantic University (PBA), we too are embarking on an exciting new chapter—building upon our founder’s vision to offer excellent higher education rooted in biblical principles and servant leadership.
Over the last few years, PBA has experienced steady growth. In 2022, PBA launched the God-Sized Dreams campaign. The late John J. Rinker and his wife, Sheila, inspired the launch of the campaign. This master plan will enable the University to further respond to market changes, expand academic programs, and build innovative spaces for students, faculty, and the public—with our community enthusiastically joining us.
Building a Future for PBA’s Next Chapter
Thanks to our supporters’ unending dedication and generosity, we met our initial campaign goal of $75 million this fall and are close to completing the first project under the campaign. Scheduled to open in spring 2026, the Marshall and Vera Lea Rinker Business Hall will help students become leaders with integrity amid a complex global economy. The building will house the AACSB-accredited Marshall E. Rinker, Sr. College of Business, a 300-seat tiered lecture hall, a stock trading room with professional terminals, and several PBA Centers of Excellence: the Center for Financial Literacy, the LeMieux Center for Public Policy, the Raney Center for Free Enterprise, and the Titus Center for Franchising.
Innovative Spaces, Authentic Community
PBA’s second project through the campaign began in October 2025 with the groundbreaking on a 25-story residence hall. The new dormitory will feature modern apartment-style living, spacious dining areas and fitness amenities, multiple gathering spaces, and an adjacent parking garage. Scheduled for completion in fall 2027, the building is part of PBA’s strategic master plan to enhance the student experience and strengthen the University’s role in the heart of West Palm Beach.
More importantly, the new residence hall will foster a stronger sense of community among students. According to a 2021 survey by the National Survey of Student Engagement, those who live on campus experience higher social and academic outcomes—like earning stronger grades and participating in on-campus activities. At PBA that includes chapel, discipleship groups, or Bible studies. These results are critical to ensuring students can strengthen their faith and grow into all that God is calling them to be.
These projects are the first of many under the campaign, including a new health sciences complex—underscoring PBA’s commitment to health care education.
Institutional Development in a Growing Region
Because of God’s provision and our community’s unwavering support for PBA’s liberal arts curriculum, the University is thriving in the heart of Palm Beach County. Our location strategically positions PBA to expand as hundreds of Fortune 500 companies open offices in the region and thousands of residents move to the area.
PBA is expanding right alongside West Palm Beach, experiencing record-breaking enrollment over the last four years and ranking third in the nation for application growth compared to pre-COVID levels, according to National Center for Education Statistics data. These milestones reflect an increased demand for Christ-first, whole person higher education that focuses not just on preparing future employees—but leaders with integrity who will impact their fields, families, and communities.
As downtown West Palm Beach—also known as Wall Street South—continues to grow, PBA is uniquely positioned. Students have countless internship and job opportunities with top finance, health care, and civic organizations just minutes from campus, while industry leaders from Florida and beyond can collaborate with the University on unique projects and community initiatives. Our future is bright as we continue pursuing our mission to equip students to grow in wisdom, lead with conviction, and serve God boldly.
For more information about PBA’s next chapter, visit godsizeddreams.pba.edu.
