Colorado Christian University Students Earn Top 20 Finish at National Gloo Hackathon

Posted on October 20, 2025

Colorado Christian University Students Earn Top 20 Finish at National Gloo Hackathon

A team of nine Colorado Christian University (CCU) students, guided by faculty members Dr. Cory Hixson and Professor Edward Jones, achieved a Top 20 finish at the 2025 Gloo Hackathon held in Boulder, Colorado.

The three-day event brought together more than 700 Christian technologists, developers, and AI innovators from across the nation to design solutions that promote human flourishing through technology. Nearly 100 teams competed to create software that reflects both technical excellence and faith-inspired purpose.

CCU's team developed Relief Near Me, an AI-powered mobile app designed to help homeless individuals find nearby resources such as food, shelter, and healthcare. Their solution stood out for its compassionate design and community impact.

"Our students exemplified the best of CCU's mission - pursuing excellence in STEM while using their gifts to serve others and glorify God," said Dr. Cory Hixson, associate professor of Engineering. "We learned a great deal, made meaningful connections in the Christian tech community, and represented CCU with integrity and innovation."

Professor Edward Jones, who led the team's technical development, praised the students' dedication:

"They worked tirelessly with humility and teamwork. It was a joy to see them integrate their faith and technical skills to create something that could make a real-world impact."

The Gloo AI Hackathon is one of the largest gatherings of faith-driven technologists in the country, reflecting a growing movement to align artificial intelligence with Christian values and human flourishing.