Gary and Marilyn Hargrave founded Shiloh University in 2006. This momentous event was the culmination of decades of seeking the Lord to see the Shiloh facility become the university of biblical studies that Shiloh’s founder, John Stevens, had envisioned.

Over the course of his thirty years as an ordained minister, Gary Hargrave has desired to see every believer matured “to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fullness of Christ” (Ephesians 4:13). Marilyn Hargrave too has a deep love of learning and teaching and has always been determined to see each new generation taught in the ways of the Lord. Shiloh University is an expression of these passions.

Gary and Marilyn recognized that an online university would be the best expression of their desire to see every pastor truly prepared for the ministry. Traditional seminaries and Bible schools have required young men and women to leave their place of ministry in order to earn a degree. This old paradigm of ministerial training has left churches without the vibrant hunger that these young men and women provide. It has also in many cases removed these hungry hearts from the mentoring and hands-on experience they were receiving in the field. In contrast to the scriptural pattern of ministry training found in the apostle Paul creating his young sons such as Timothy, the current process has been detrimental to the holistic preparation necessary for pastoral success. Gary and Marilyn’s vision for the University is born out of their years of training and mentorship under John Robert Stevens. Therefore, Shiloh University brings the principles of mentoring into an online expression.

Gary and Marilyn did not merely start the University; they have been intimately involved in the determination of degrees to be offered, the course of study for each degree program, the choosing of text materials, and the writing of curriculum. The Hargraves have also been personally involved in selecting the credentialed administrators, professors, and qualified board members and staff. These are men and women of integrity who have a deep love for God and His Word.