Faculty Spotlight: Randall Downs

Randall Downs teaches two classes at Grand Canyon University and works hard to schedule events for the Worship Arts department. Learn more about him in our spotlight below!

Tell us about your background.

I was raised in a Christian household and came to know Christ as my Savior at the age of eight. It has been a fun and rewarding journey since that time. The Lord called me to vocational Christian ministry when I was a senior in high school. The sense of God’s calling on my life led me to pursue a double major in music and worship leadership at the University of Mobile. I continued my education at Mid-America Baptist Theological Seminary, completing a Masters of Divinity degree in 2011 and a PhD in Church history in 2018.

I moved to Anthem, AZ in January 2016 to help plant CrossLife Church. We meet in Canyon Springs Elementary School on Sundays at 10:30 am. Twelve people moved to Phoenix to start the church and one of them is now my wife. Ashley and I were friends in Memphis but we did not start dating until we both lived in Arizona. Our first date was on February 3, 2017 to Jerome, AZ and we were married on May 26, 2018. God has been so good to us and it is a blessing to have a soulmate that loves the Lord so fervently.

The other fun fact about myself is that I play in a band called Loser’s Way Home. We formed in Memphis and play folk/folk-rock style originals. I love to tell stories through songwriting, whether Biblical, historical (non-biblical) or fictional. We are able to play in fun venues and share the gospel through our songs and conversations. We have five records and are currently writing for the sixth.

What is your role within the College of Theology?

I am the Worship Arts Coordinator and have the privilege of building relationships with students and faculty. I teach two classes a semester and work with the College of Theology and the College of Fine Arts and Production to schedule events for the Worship Arts department. Discipling and developing ministers of the Gospel is a passion of mine, especially those called to areas of music and/or media.

What advice would you give to your students?

Use your time at GCU wisely. God has given you the opportunity to study at a university that is passionate about equipping men and women to take the Gospel to the whole world. Take advantage of the resources (professors, fellow students, books, computer software, courses, experience) within your reach and give your studies 100% of your effort. College flies by and you will be thankful for how God uses GCU to prepare you for ministry. Don’t be afraid to ask questions! Build friendships that will last a lifetime.

At Grand Canyon University, our faculty is committed to the success of all students. To learn more about our College of Theology, please visit our website or use the Request More Information button on this page.