The mission of the IICS is to place academicians in secular universities around the world in order to influence the leaders of tomorrow. Dr. McCarthy has taught at the university level in China, Russia, the Netherlands, Nigeria, and most recently Afghanistan. Her mission work has taken her to 45 nations.

The Calvin Thielman Lecture Series is named for the late Dr. Calvin Thielman, who was pastor of Montreat Presbyterian Church from 1962 to 1995. The lecture series is funded by the Thielman fund, which provides the Montreat community and guests with thought-provoking, challenging lectures that enhance the educational experience of Montreat College.

Montreat College is a Christ-centered liberal arts institution with its main campus for four-year traditional students in Montreat. The accelerated School of Professional and Adult Studies program has campuses in Asheville, Charlotte, and Black Mountain, with courses being taught in Cherokee, Murphy and other NC locations.