Pros
Christian Union has a worthy mission and some wonderful field workers. They are able to work on some of the finest colleges in the world with the message of hope in Christ. They are also well paid and not required to personally raise funds thanks to a funding model unique among campus ministries. In many instances, CU has built the largest ministries on the campuses where it works and where other Christian organizations have struggled.
Cons
Nearly all of the cons trace directly back to the CEO who creates and maintains a significantly unhealthy work environment. Across the organization the CEO is found to be an oppressive micromanager who is committed to his own ideas and disregards input from his people. Morale across the organization has typically been quite low with few exceptions. Multiple people who have left describe needing counseling and a season of healing. A little over a year ago there was a significant conflict that caused a referendum on the CEO’s problematic leadership, but with little meaningful change. The CEO’s consolidation of power is considerable, as is his comfort wielding it. I would urge anyone considering working at CU not to be dazzled by the apparent plusses. Not all is as it seems on paper. In your interview, ask probing questions that would be wise to ask in any non-profit. For instance, ask about organizational culture and ask to see the results of staff morale surveys. It may also be enlightening to ask if the organization is disproportionally dependent on the donations of any particular individuals and if so, how that affects the power dynamics in the organization. Finally, it is always wise to inquire about staff turnover rates. If you are considering working at Christian Union, please first read the article from Christianity Today on “Considering (and Surviving) Unhealthy Christian Organizations.” Though not specifically about CU, it describes the experience of many CU employees with surprising accuracy.