When you're in the middle of a capital campaign, the numbers matter, but the mission matters more. What happens when a school grows faster than its walls can handle? What do you do when you're forced to say “no” to families who are already saying “yes” to a biblical worldview? These aren’t just growing pains—they’re kingdom opportunities.

In this extra credit episode of Clearly Christian, Dr. Cy Smith talks about local Capital Campaign fundraising efforts currently underway at Mansfield Christian School. With Phase 1 well past the halfway point, Cy shares how faith, vision, and bold leadership are all playing a role in bringing it to life.

The conversation walks listeners through the heart behind the campaign. From under-stairwell tutoring sessions to maxed-out cafeterias and out-of-state modular classrooms, the need is urgent. But so is the opportunity. With over 900 students already enrolled and more waiting, the question isn't if Mansfield Christian should grow, it’s how fast can we make it happen?

Cy talks openly about what it takes to lead a campaign of this size, what he's asking of board members, businesses, and families, and how even modest gifts, like $59/month, can be part of something transformational. He also paints a vivid picture of the kind of graduates MCS is producing: grounded, purpose-driven, and ready to lead—not just in business and ministry, but in every corner of society.

This is a conversation about more than fundraising. It's about preparing the next generation to lead with conviction. And it’s a reminder that if we want to change our communities and our country, it starts by investing in Christian

education now.

Key Takeaways:

-The campaign is the largest of its kind in Richland County: $30 million over three phases.

-Phase 1 includes much-needed classrooms and infrastructure, with $7M raised and a goal to hit $10M by the end of 2025.

-The school has maxed out space—using stairwells and closets as makeshift learning areas.

-MCS is experiencing record enrollment, and must grow to meet the needs of the community.

-A strong board and donor base are fully committed and actively giving.

-Giving tiers include accessible options: $700/year from families or $1,000 from local businesses.

-Cy emphasizes that MCS produces students who are workforce-ready and grounded in biblical values.

-The campaign includes naming opportunities and long-term legacy potential.

-Christian education is the front line for raising up leaders with a biblical worldview.

-The future of communities like Richland County depends on equipping students today.

Helpful Links:

Mansfield Christian School Capital Campaign: https://www.mcsflames.org/give

Dr. Cy Smith, Mansfield Christian School: https://www.mcsflames.org/

Chapters

01:20 – Vision, Phases, and Big-Picture Goals

04:09 – Progress, Momentum, and the $3M Push

08:15 – Getting Involved: Families, Businesses, and Board Buy-In

12:38 – Urgency and Impact: What’s at Stake if We Don’t Build

16:58 – A Different Kind of Graduate, A Bigger Kind of Mission