24
1 SPRING 2016
1 SPRING 2016
ECHOES2
Echoes is published quarterly by The Baptist College of Florida 5400 College Drive | Graceville, FL 32440-1898 www.baptistcollege.eduPeriodical Postage paid at Graceville, Florida.
If you would like to receive Echoes or inform us of an address change, please contact us at 800.328.2660 ext. 552 or email us [email protected]
Postmaster: Send Address Corrections to:The Baptist College of Florida5400 College DriveGraceville, FL 32440-1898
The Baptist College of Florida
Thomas A. KinchenPresident
Sandra K. RichardsDirector of Enrollment Management and Marketing
John (JJ) LainLead Graphic Designer & Photographer
Part Time StaffMatthew Fernandez, photographerColt Hudson, writer
Statement of MissionThe Baptist College of Florida shall operate within the context of a Christian worldview to promote, provide for, operate and control a program of education and training for Christian leaders through awarding certificates and associate, baccalaureate and masters degrees in a co-educational post-secondary setting.
To fulfill its mission, the college seeks to develop those qualities in students that contribute to effective ministry. In the area of personal growth, we seek to foster a desire for knowledge; develop cultural awareness by introducing students to a wide range of knowledge; nurture the ability to acquire, evaluate, assimilate, and use information; and promote personal and social maturity.
For spiritual growth, we provide the resources for gaining biblical and religious data; we also assist students in learning and living the Christian life. In terms of professional growth, students are enabled to gain the credentials that enhance opportunities for ministry, and they learn to master a specialized body of knowledge.
At the same time, we encourage positive attitudes toward ministry and foster both an awareness of and a loyalty to the Southern Baptist heritage.
ECHOES | SPRING 2016 | VOL 71 NO 1 | (USPS) 041-960
3 SPRING 2016
Would you like to watch our chapel service? Maybe you would like to download our latest promo video...
check out vimeo.com/baptistcollege
4 | A Message From the President
6 | UPCOMING EVENT: Creation Conference
7 | Northeast Florida Distance Site
9 | A Preview Day Celebration
10 | Classy Dining: The Deese Center
10 | The Kinchen Center
11 | Scholarships Provide Support
11 | A Letter to the President
18 | Students: Haden & Austin Keough
19 | Alumni: Bill & Dena Stanley
20 | Alumnus: Jon Beck
21 | Alumnus: Brittany Blowers
22 | Alumnus: Paul Fries
23 | Alumni Updates
12 | Monetary Gifts Given
14 | Honor Gifts
14 | Memorial Gifts
16 | Endowed Scholarships
17 | Alumni Gifts for 2015
17 | Heritage Society
What’s Going on in Graceville?
Your Gifts are Making a Difference
Changing the World...
Supporters Tribute
ECHOES4
A LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT
Dear Friends,As you read this issue of Echoes I
hope that you will be impacted by the simplicity and the Majesty of the Cross. The front cover shows a picture of the cross behind the platform area in the R.G. Lee Chapel on our home campus in Graceville. This facility is the place where we gather for chapel three days each week and where we gather for other special times of worship and celebration in the life of the College. The cross dominates the view in the building. In the simplicity of this cross I am reminded of many things. One is the life of the man who built this particular cross, Philip Draayom, who served as Director of Maintenance at the college before he went home to be with our Lord. He was a kind and quiet man who had a wonderful touch with woodworking. When I see the cross in the Chapel I am also reminded of the simplicity of the message that it carries – “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believeth on Him should not perish but have eternal life.” Despite its
simplicity the cross carries a powerful message of majesty. The very God of Heaven came to earth and dwelt among us and gave His life for us on a rugged cross – “He who knew no sin became sin for us . . .” Truly the cross represents God’s greatest love and our greatest need.
Also on the front cover of this issue of Echoes you will see that there is the representation of plans for future development of the college campus. Through this picture, we are seeking to say graphically that all that we plan, project, build, and do find their meaning and purpose in the Cross of Christ and its message for a hurting world. Without the Message of the Cross there would be no need for The Baptist College of Florida to exist. Without the Message of the Cross there would be no hope for this lost world. Without the Message of the Cross there would be no basis for the joy and determination that I see in the lives of the wonderful students who come to the college for education and training as the next greatest generation of Christian leaders. Without the
Message of the Cross our lives would be mired in futility and desperation. Thank God for the Cross and it’s simple, majestic message.
As you read this issue of Echoes I hope that you will be struck, as I am, by the many evidences of our Lord’s provision and leadership in this wonderful place. Over the last quarter century I have had the privilege of seeing things accomplished that are far beyond our ability to comprehend or orchestrate. The only explanation for the fact that The Baptist College of Florida has survived and thrived in a society that is becoming increasingly hostile to the Message of the Cross of Christ is the fact that our Lord brought this institution into being and has continued to provide for its mission, purpose, and support. The Florida Baptist State Convention has been and remains a steadfast partner in this work of our Lord through its Cooperative Program support of the college. Our friends and family across Florida and the world have been stalwart in their prayers and financial support. Our trustees, faculty, staff, and students
5 SPRING 2016
baptistcollege.edu
have been outstanding stewards of the resources and opportunities that we have been afforded here. It is through the Message of the Cross of Christ and the support of God’s people that we can continue the work of “Changing the World Through the Unchanging Word®.”
All of the articles in this issue of Echoes point to the fact that our Lord is working in the life of The Baptist College of Florida and in the lives of those individuals who have been a part of this place over the years. The location of a new site in Northeast Florida signals an opportunity for us to reach a broader area with educational opportunities. I want to thank the good folks at First Baptist Church of Jacksonville for hosting us for the past several years. I also want to thank the leadership at Fruit Cove Baptist Church for opening their hearts and facilities to us. You will be hearing more on this development in the near future.
I am absolutely astounded when I look at the articles highlighting our alumni in this issue of Echoes. These
folks who have spent a part of their life in training at The Baptist College of Florida are now spending their lives in changing the world around the world. Those noted in this issue are serving from Melbourne to Minnesota and Wisconsin to Botswana. The picture is then wrapped up in a life of ministry that circles the globe and is now about to change venues again. The Fries family, whose story is shared here, has built a legacy at The Baptist College of Florida and is building a legacy around the world. Our graduates are literally “Changing the World Through the Unchanging Word®.” I am so very grateful for the blessings of our Lord and the opportunity to be identified with such faithful servants.
As I noted earlier, the work of The Baptist College of Florida has been made possible by the provision of our Lord and the heartfelt generosity of His people. I hope that you will take the time to review the lists in the 2015 Supporter’s Tribute. These lists represent folks who are from many different professions, ages, and geographical locations; but they have
one thing in common – a love for our Lord that is being lived out in Christian generosity. We simply could not do all that we do without the support of these folks and countless others like them. Whether you have supported the college through cash gifts, in kind gifts, or sweat equity volunteer work, you have made a great contribution to our Lord’s Kingdom. We are not here to build a great school just to have a great school. We are here to engage with brothers and sisters from around the world in the great privilege of Kingdom building for our Lord’s honor and glory.
It is a joy to serve along with you as we proclaim the Message of the Cross in the work of “Changing the World Through the Unchanging Word®.” May God bless us all in the Joy of the Journey.
God Bless You,
Thomas A. Kinchen, President
ECHOES6
On April 26-27, The Baptist College of Florida (BCF) in Graceville will hold the first on-campus Creation Conference with breakout sessions designed for pastors and youth groups. The conference will examine the science and apologetics with the primary topic being the Biblical account of creation. Leading the conference and speaking both days in chapel will be prominent creationist, scientist, and author Jonathan Sarfati.
Sarfati is a well-known author, speaker, apologist, and scientist for Creation Ministries International in Atlanta, Georgia. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry and a Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry from Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand. As an author, Sarfati has written numerous books including Refuting Evolution (2008), which has more than 400,000 copies in print, and his most recent work The Genesis Account (2015), which serves as an in-depth commentary on the first eleven chapters of Genesis.
In addition to speaking in the regularly scheduled chapel services at 10:00 a.m. (CST) in the R. G. Lee Chapel on Tuesday and Wednesday, Sarfati will lead a special session for pastors on Tuesday, April 26, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. (CST) and one for youth, Homeschoolers, and Christian School groups on Tuesday, April 26, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. (CST). Conference sessions are open to the public by reservation. To register for the free Creation Conference, please call 800.328.2660 ext. 513, email: [email protected], or register online at www.baptistcollege.edu/creationconference.
Dr. Jonathan Sarfati
7 SPRING 2016
baptistcollege.eduNortheast FloridaDistance Site
It is always an exciting time in the life of an institution of higher education when new opportunities become available for expansion and growth. Such is the case with the recent Distance Site launch of The Baptist College of Florida (BCF) at Fruit Cove Baptist Church in Jacksonville, Fla.
Heralding the registered trademark of “Changing the World Through the Unchanging Word.®” The Baptist College of Florida began offering classes at Fruit Cove to meet the growing need for easily accessible theological education and training in the area. “Whether you are in full-time Christian service or you are a Sunday School teacher, you need to know what the Word of God says so you can teach it without apology and now you have an opportunity to have some of the finest theological education and training right here at Fruit Cove,” stated Glen Owens, BCF alumnus and Northeast Regional Catalyst for the Florida Baptist State Convention.
With picture perfect weather and great attendance, the BCF Jazz Band led worship followed by President Thomas A. Kinchen preaching during the two morning worship services on the day of the new site launch. The warm welcome extended by Fruit Cove Senior Pastor Tim Maynard, his staff, and members of the Fruit Cove Church family was overwhelming to representatives from BCF there to share information. “This is really exciting,” stated Maynard, “because it gives us the
opportunity to put theological education into a point of access for a lot of folks who may not get it otherwise.”
The Jacksonville Site Director Jim Robinett will be teaching and managing the site which will include courses in the 23 degree programs offered on campus, online, and the three distance sites – Jacksonville, Panama City, and Orlando. Each degree program requires 18 semester hours in the Biblical/Theological Foundation area which provides a strong theological base for today’s Christian leaders. BCF degree programs include areas of study in Music, Ministry, Contemporary Worship Ministry, Business Leadership, Elementary Education, Secondary Education, Psychology as well as Missions, Missions with a Concentration in Aviation, Leadership and Christian Education, and Biblical Studies.
According to Kinchen, BCF is committed to training the next greatest generation of Christian leaders and having the Fruit Cove site is just another venue for reaching the world for Christ. “We have never had such great opportunities to impact the world. With greater technologies and new sites, our single purpose is to educate and train those individuals whom God has called to serve Him in a multitude of venues and places around the world. The only question is whether you will join in this great adventure at this pivotal time in history.”
Top Photo: The BCF Booth.Middle Photo: BCF Jazz Band performs at Fruit Cove Baptist Church.Bottom Photo: Dr. Thomas A. Kinchen, President of BCF, preaches at Fruit Cove Baptist Church.
For more information on The Baptist College of Florida call 800-328-2660, or just check us out on our social media pages:www.facebook.com/baptistcollegewww.twitter.com/baptistcollegewww.instagram.com/baptistcollege
ECHOES8
The $500 Scholarship drawing winners: Chance McDonald & Kayln Hardin pose with Izzy the Eagle!
Winner of our BCF Prize Basket, Rachel Whaley!
9 SPRING 2016
baptistcollege.edu
The atmosphere was ecstatic on March 11 at The Baptist College of Florida (BCF) in Graceville, as over 100 prospective students and their families attended Spring Preview Day to see if BCF is where they should continue their education.
Registration began in the Wellness Center at 9:00 a.m. during which students received bags filled with information regarding the many facets and areas of life at BCF. During the registration time, prospective students were able to visit exhibits and booths dedicated to providing information on specific degree programs, mission opportunities, financial aid, student life activities, intramural sports, and other resources available to students such as the library, writing center, and computer lab. In addition to registration and visiting exhibits, there was also a photo booth where visitors could take pictures with friends and family members as they created memories and new friendships on Preview Day.
After registration, guests were welcomed by BCF President Thomas A. Kinchen and Director of Enrollment Management
and Marketing Sandra Richards, during which Kinchen awarded a five hundred dollar scholarship to two of the students that travelled the farthest distance to attend the event. After the welcome and a time of meeting college representatives, prospective students and their families were able to preview academic life at BCF in the form of classroom visits. Guests were given an opportunity to visit one of the degree disciplines such as music, education, psychology, missions and theology, or attend the financial aid briefing. The meetings were designed specifically to provide detailed information relating to their academic interest or career choice.
Following the classroom visits, guests made their way to the R.G. Lee Chapel for a time of inspirational worship and an encouraging message from Kinchen from the third chapter of Philippians. The chapel service featured student led praise and worship, showcasing the orchestra, choir, and all of the college ensembles available for students to join while attending BCF.
Immediately after chapel, BCF provided lunch for visitors in the new dining facility, The Deese Center. During lunch, attendees experienced a delightful time of fun, food and fellowship with current students while listening to the melodious sounds of the BCF Jazz Band. Following the meal, visitors were given the option to tour married housing or dormitories with the BCF Resident Directors (RD’s), or take a tour of the campus with one of the BCF Admissions Counselors.
As the tours concluded, both current and prospective students gathered into the Wellness Center to watch the BCF Student Intramural Basketball Champions, the “Sonic Ballers,” take on a team made up of faculty and staff in an entertaining game of basketball. The teams competed well, but the students won both games.
Throughout the basketball challenge, there were drawings held for two more scholarships that went to Chance McDonald and Kayln Hardin, as well as a drawing for a basket filled with BCF goodies. The day concluded with a word of prayer.
Preview Day
ECHOES10
Faculty, staff, students and the Graceville community are thoroughly enjoying the variety and exceptional quality of meals served in the new dining facility, the Deese Center, opened in honor and memory of Ty Deese. The completion of the beautiful facility is one of many phases in the President’s 20/20 Vision for redevelopment and expansion approved by the Board of Trustees in May 2013.
The Deese Center is quite popular among students as they enjoy both the excellent atmosphere and cuisine. “The new dining facility is absolutely beautiful and truly state of the art. It’s exciting to walk in and be greeted by the sleek design of the building,” stated BCF Director of Baptist Collegiate Ministries (BCM) Jonah Powers. According to BCF Student Roselyn Zaiter, “There are fresher, healthier options with a much more enjoyable eating environment.”
If you’re in the Graceville area, please join us in the Deese Center and enjoy some good food while meeting some of our students and faculty! “We have truly reached new heights with the dining facility and the food quality is at the highest it has ever been,” says BCF Alum and Admissions Counselor Karl Hudson.
The 20/20 Vision masterplan for the development of The Baptist College of Florida has entered another phase with the announcement of a major building project. The Kinchen Center will house classrooms, laboratories, offices, and a meeting center for the Teacher Education program at the college. The Center will be constructed on the east side of Lake Albert in the middle of the home campus in Graceville. This will be another step in the redesign of the campus in which the beautiful lake which graces the campus will become the central focal point for academic buildings as well as other student activities. The project is currently in the fundraising stage with approximately 75% of the $1,000,000 goal already being met. The name for this particular building was established by action of the Board of Trustees along with input from one of the school’s longtime friends and supporters who desired to honor Dr. Thomas A. Kinchen, BCF President, and Mrs. Ruth Ann Kinchen, the school’s First Lady. The decision was made as a part of the celebration of the Kinchens’ twenty-fifth anniversary of service to the Lord at the school. According to Kinchen, “There is no way in which we could express adequately our gratitude for this distinct honor. It certainly was not expected. I am sure that there are many who are far more worthy, but I can assure you that there are none more honored than we are. The Baptist College of Florida is our extended family, and we are tremendously honored to have our family make this expression.”
Currently architectural renderings and engineering plans are being completed. According to Kinchen, groundbreaking for this project is expected within the next few months.
Classy Dining
The Kinchen Center
:the deese center
11 SPRING 2016
baptistcollege.edu
Scholarship’s Provide Support
A Letter tothe President
Adolph Bedsole was pastor of Immanuel Baptist Church in Panama City for almost 30 years and instrumental in moving the college, then BBI, to Graceville. Bedsole was one of the first trustees to serve at the college after its move to the present location. In his memory, Immanuel Baptist Church established the A.B. Bedsole Memorial Scholarship to train the next generation of Christian leaders at The Baptist College of Florida (BCF).
Every semester at BCF, students can be found gathered in the Business Office picking up checks from part-time campus jobs, making tuition payments, or dropping by the Financial Aid office to find out the status on their scholarship. There are countless stories of God’s financial provision in the lives of these students. The cost of attendance is a significant factor in the decision to attend a postsecondary educational institution. While BCF has been named a “Best Value School” by University Research and Review for 2014 and 2015, there are always students that cannot afford to attend college without financial assistance and for this reason student’s rely heavily on scholarships.
“Many times scholarships can be the determining factor in whether or not students can attend college,” stated BCF Director of Business Affairs, Polly Floyd. Our Financial Aid office has a reputation for providing a caring and helpful environment for students. “Whenever we are able to award a scholarship I see a great sense of relief,” stated BCF Director of Financial Aid Stephanie Powell, “the students are always thankful!” BCF student Jordan Johnson reflected, “Scholarships help take the burden off of my family and opens doors for me to continue to pursue my calling in ministry. They help motivate me to press on and remind me of God’s calling and provision in my life.”
Donations made to the scholarship fund at BCF, transitions into peace of mind and financial security for students who are studying to become the next greatest generation of Christian leaders. In fact, there are many students whose dream to attend college would be lost if it were not for the generosity of God’s people!
Dr. Kinchen,
I am a 1974 graduate of Baptist Bible Institute (BBI). I was at best a “C” student, but more likely a strong “D” student. I have enclosed a copy of a book I recently wrote entitled “Leadership, Biblical Truth for a New Generation of Leaders.”
I was born again July 28, 1968. I was soon thereafter called into the ministry. I had never read a book or a Bible for that matter prior to my conversion. I was incarcerated when I was saved.
When I came to BBI, I knew little about God and even less about the Bible. The faculty, staff and students were my first mentors. I had no father (he died when I was twelve) and no clue what being a Christian meant much less a minister.
My wife and I are preparing to retire from the pastorate after forty plus years. We will pursue our calling now to write, travel and encourage as many pastors and churches as possible.
I thought you would like to hear from someone who had nothing going for them, but when they attended BBI all kinds of opportunities and gifts began to appear.
I am and will always be eternally grateful for the shaping of my life by the ministry of the faculty of your school. Most of my teachers have gone to their reward now, but their influence lives on through me and those whom I have influenced.
Please let your instructors know that their work is eternal. I am sure that there are other students like myself sitting in their classes today.
I am very grateful.
Sincerely,
Frank P. Adams27 Dawson Drive, Fredericksburg, VA [email protected]
FRONT ROW: L-R Margie Davis, Betty Pitts, Martha Greeson, Charles Parker and Alex Pitts. SECOND ROW: L-R Joyce Mauldin, Monroe Morris, James Ray Brookins, James Green, Sylvia Greene
ECHOES12
2015 Supporter’s Tribute
Benefactor’s Circle
Fellow’s Circle
Patron’s Circle
Founder’s Circle
Gifts of $10,000 & above
Gifts of $5,000 - $9,999
Gifts of $2,000 - $4,999
Gifts of $1,000 - $1,999
In deep appreciation to those who have shared the vision and supported the mission of The Baptist College of Florida, the following list acknowledges gifts received during the preced-ing calendar year. Extreme care is exercised to ensure accuracy in the annual report of gifts. Please call (800) 328-2660 ext. 416 for questions or to provide additional information. Gifts to The Baptist College of Florida are an investment in the preparation of men and women for Christian service and ministry. Supporters are recognized in categories on the following pages for their faithfulness and generosity!*deceased during 2015-2016
Warren & Pat CarmichaelStaff & Gwen ChildsBernice B. ConradKen & Libby DraughonWalter & Jane Draughon, IIIAlfred I. duPont Foundation, Inc.Sandra S. DurrJames P. Gills Foundation, Inc.H&H Transport – Jerry & Pam HickoxPick Hollinger TrustRay B. HowardThomas Tapley Jones Trust*Dwight W. Kelley Thomas A. & Ruth Ann KinchenR.C. & Lois MillsRebecca Ann Lucas Mary C. OgletreeCharles R. ParkerTed & Barbara Spangenberg, Jr.
Beverly R. BrimerDoyle & Debbie CarltonRobert D. Carlton
Bailey Lumber & Supply Inc.Byrd Family Foundation Fran CarltonJames A. & Dorothy ClemmonsBuford & Judy CoxDavid & Connie CogginsJefferson Davis Donald & Anne GrahamCharles M. & Patricia GrimsleyDavid & Maxie HechtRonny L. HerringStanley & Janis JarrettDozier & Joy JohnsonCharles D. KleiserCharles A. & Dorothy LitzellPhilip & Charlene MartinDouglas L. Nellums
Michael F. CorbinJerry & Lois Danford Patricia M. DavisBrian & Paula EvansJeffrey & Debi HowardJulia A. KetnerRoger & Sandra RichardsWiley & Betty RichardsJohn & Nancy Sullivan Larry E. & Frances TaylorW.O. Whittle
Jeffrey & Melody ScottFred M. StarlingJane D. ThomasJudson & Linda VaughnMary Gail WebbLawrence D. & Donna WorthJerry A. & Bobbie WyrickLeon & Jewell Zalenski
Jeanette H. BaileyBCF Faculty Wives AuxDaniel J. & Jane BayseKaren J. BeauchampBorowski & Traylor, P.A.Gregory M. BrudnickiShawn & Gloria BuiceMichael & Nancy BurnsMark & Kay CappsTom CrutchfieldBenny & Bettye DavisJames L. EzellSarah K. FitzgeraldRonald & Pennijo FowlerJohn Roy GoughHarold O. GreggGulf Power Foundation, Inc. Helen M. HolcombJames H. IngoldsbyMartha G. Kennon
13 SPRING 2016
baptistcollege.edu
President’s Council
Sustainer’s Circle
Ten-A-Month Club
Gifts of $500 - $999
Gifts of $250 - $499
Gifts of $120 - $249Max L. & Sue LaseterHoward & Trina LearyJoyce LeeWilliam Stuart & Fran McArthurDoug & Marcia MedlinCathy MillerMitchell Nissan Enterprise, ALPhoebe MurrellJames & Chantel OneyAlex M. Pitts, Jr.Patricia L. RaineyJim & Nancy RobinettBill SalterSammy & Linda ScarboroMerle ScherleLynwood & Brenda SeayVoncile SenterfittSouthwest Florida Baptist AssociationJohn W. StarlingHouston A. & Muriel WatsonGlenn C. Willsey
Henry Arnold Ford Co.Baptist Foundation of AL William W. BestMarshall & Laura BlickJames R. BrookinsCatherine D. BuggRose Marie ChapmanJimmy & Sue ClantonWilliam A. Clayton*Angeline CutshawDavid K. CutshawElizabeth DavisFirst Orlando Foundation, Inc.Bill & Polly FloydMavis GarrettJames L. GreeneDean & Kimberly HopperKaye JohnsonChristopher & Stephanie KingEd E. & Willetta KleinschmidtShelba KnightDianne LovettGail D. MannCarol S. MartinDan M. MauldinDon A. McLaughlinJames & Roberta NewellJerry E. & Grace Oswalt
Glen E. OwensMark A. & Angie RathelMiriam W. RidgeBruce A. StarlingWilliam & Joan TimmonsValley Services, Inc. Philip & Joy Younavjak
Joseph & Rhonda AlainAllegro Senior Living Jean BartlettRoy B. & Shirley BatemanR. Luther & Vera BeauchampRon & Judith BranningR. Harold & Jackie BrantleyRonald L. BurksBYKOTA Women’s Class FBC Greensboro, FL Central Plant Technology, Inc.Tracy & Sarah ClemmonsKenric ConwayChris CoramRoy & Susan CordleHugh & Shirley DampierWilliam Howard DavisGeraldine P. DeFelixDarreyl & Marcia DuggarDaniel M. ElligsonRichard L. & Cheryl ElligsonBill & Gail FloydEloy & Luci FloresRick & Dawn FreemanJudy & Henry FullingtonAlbert & Angela GloverPaul F. & Janice GuinnJohn L. & Mary Jones*Dorothy Kimball EstateRobert E. LeeLillian H. MorrisOliver W. MurphyRoyal S. MurphyElinor E. RobertsRandall E. RogersEula SaylorEdwin & Lea ScottMarcus D. & Linda ShackelfordLeonard M. ShoresThomas Edward SmithElizabeth E. Swanson “Estate”Charles Joseph TalleyDoris M. TolsonCharles & Kimberly WarrenTimothy G. WilliamsPamela C. Zavada
Marvin & Edith AlbinVernon E. & Jean BeachumRoy & Sue BeardFrank & Carline BodifordR. Wayne BriantChris BrownDennis BrownHoward A. & Margaret BuddenRicky Lee ByrdPete ChamberlainDonald & Doris CollierJames H. & Sherry DeasBillie W. DicksonJean O. DucanisEloy FloresBen & Shirley FloydThomas William GageDavid & Daphne GrierKenneth & Betty GerenRachel J. GodwinMartha P. GreesonDennis & Dorothy HallDennis P. HarrisJ. Frank & Dixie HayBradley Curtis HughesGarland JonesGena L. KeszthelyiBarbara KingFrederick M. KnightKent J. & Esther LamppClyde LeeJohn LeeGary & Jan MartinTimothy & Pamela MaynardQuinn McAlisterMartha Kay McRaeMike & Stephanie OrrWillie B. ParkerJames & Johnell PepperCathy Brock RevellChristie M. RossSt. Johns River Baptist AssociationJohn & Amy ShaffettJohn Phillip ShuttSouthern Baptist FoundationThomas R. StewardOlan & Rosie StricklandLaura Tice Sowell Richard TudorSyretha C. WardEarl C. WatsonJ.B. WellsWest Florida Baptist Association
ECHOES14
Nell T. WesterJames H. & Patricia WilliamsCharline Wingate
Nettye Jo BennettGene Brock Appliance ServiceLynn J. & Annie Lois BridgesShirley H. BrookinsRichard & Elizabeth BroomeDanny BryanSteve C. & Leigh Anne CarmichaelEvelyn F. CarterRobert L. CarterWilliam S. & Carole ChandlerArthur Donald CheverieAnnette CouchHeidi CookRobert & Virginia CookCountryside Lawn Care Margaret J. CraigWilliam Crutchfield, Inc.Margie P. DavisChris DuncanJonathan & Maegan ErpJohn A. FairclothKristy FordGeorge ForsbergJohn G. GarrisonHoward L. GatesMatthew Lee GluckGrand Ridge High School Beverly R. HarrisDavid W. HarrisGerald HerringDonovan HigginsBiff HobbsOlene Howell Jeannie K. IveyMarion Betty JacksonKaren C. JeffordsQuinn JeffordsWilliam JenkinsMark JohnsonRobin & Terry JumperStephen & Janis Kelley*Bob Kimball EstateP.T. KimmelBill A. KnowlesThomas & Margaret LedbetterJohn D. LoganFred J. MartinKaty MartinOvie B. MartinBarbara Matthews
C. W. MauldinJacquelyn McArthurL. W. McDonaldHelen M. MellonLloyd MinerMitchell M. MorrisBonnie S. MurrellPanhandle Engineering & ConstructionCharles & Clara ParkerPeoples Bank Charles W. PylesRuth RatchfordGeoffrey ReiterRex Lumber Company Ray C. RicePaul D. RobinsonDanny & Joy RogersLinda L. RolosonS & W Auto Parts, Inc. David E. SconyersSearcy Funeral Home & CrematoryDonald R. SetterbergCharles & Judy ShoreGlenda F. SimsBruce E. SmithJeannette D. SmithMichele SpurgeonCollean H. StokesLinda D. StricklandRhonda StricklandDavid T. SuttonMary Ann TrammellTed & Liz TraylorCliff & Joyce TroyerLouise VannJames VaughanCurtis W. WalkerCharlotte V. WardSusan J. WegmannKaren A. WellsWilliam Curtis WesterCharles M. WhiteJames L. WhiteHarry H. WicksellJanet L. WilksCathy & Fred WilliamsRobert & Susan WilsonSusan M. WilsonRoger & June WoodardJames Frank YatesDale Yost
COBA BEASLEY Dr. Charles R. ParkerCHIPOLA BAPTIST ASSOCIATION Dr. Charles R. ParkerRON FOWLER Dr. Charles R. ParkerREV. AND MRS. DAVID HECHT Mr. and Mrs. Joe DucanisDR. AND MRS. THOMAS A. KINCHEN Dr. David & Mrs. Connie Coggins Dr. & Mrs. Michael Burns Doris M. Tolson Mr. & Mrs. Jim Robinett Dr. & Mrs. Roger C. RichardsPRESENT DEACONS OF THE DAMASCUS BAPTIST CHURCH Thomas & Doreen StewardREV. AND MRS. JOHN PAVLUS Ruthie Ratchford Ron HumphreysDR. CHARLES R. PARKER Clyde H. LeePAT CARMICHAEL Steve & Leigh Anne CarmichaelDR. ROBIN JUMPER Clyde H. Lee
JANICE ANDREWS Dr. & Mrs. Wiley RichardsREV. WARD M. ASHLEY Dr. & Mrs. Wiley RichardsANN BARFIELD Rev. & Mrs. Jim RobinettJULIAN “SONNY” BASFORD Dr. & Mrs. Wiley RichardsJO FAYE BATTLE Dr. & Mrs. Wiley RichardsROBERT BIEDENHARN Mary Gay WebbJEFF BODDEN The Writing Center Tutors & Mrs. Deanie DeFelixJAMES H. BROOKS Dr. & Mrs. Jerry OswaltCARLISS LEROY BUICE Dr. & Mrs. Thomas A. Kinchen Dr. Charles R. Parker Dr. & Mrs. Roger C. Richards Rev. & Mrs. Jim Robinett Dr. & Mrs. Jerry Oswalt
Friend’s Circle
Honor Gifts
Memorial Gifts
Gifts up to $119
in honor of...
in memory of...
15 SPRING 2016
baptistcollege.edu
JESSIE THRIFT CAPPS Gail MannMARY TALLEY CARROLL Dr. & Mrs. Wiley RichardsCONNIE CASON Rev. & Mrs. Jim RobinettQUILLIE CHAMPION Dr. & Mrs. Jerry OswaltJAMES CHITTY Rev. & Mrs. Jim RobinettEMMA COX Dr. & Mrs. Roger C. RichardsSANDRA COLLINS Mrs. Deanie DeFelixHARRISON CONLEY Frederick KnightBOB COOLEY Dr. & Mrs. Roger C. RichardsJERRY CORDELL Gail Mann Dr. & Mrs. Jerry OswaltANN COURSON James Vaughn Terry Parker Baptist Church Terry Parker Baptist Church - Joy Class Mr. & Mrs. Ray Rice Margaret CraigELVIRA CURRY Dr. & Mrs. Wiley RichardsANGELINE BEDSOLE CUTSHAW Alex & Betty Pitts Yvonne G. Hutto Harold & Shirley Brookins Royal Murphy Arizona Quarter Century Club Miriam W. Ridge Ivey & Nancy BrownPAST DEACONS OF THE DAMASCUS BAPTIST CHURCH Thomas & Doreen StewardMR. AND MRS. LOU DAVIS Mrs. Deanie DeFelixMARILYN BRIDGES DAVIS Dr. & Mrs. Thomas A. Kinchen Dr. Charles R. ParkerDOT DICKEY Rachel GodwinBILLY DISMUKE Phoebe Murrell Dr. & Mrs. Wiley Richards Dr. & Mrs. Roger C. RichardsLLOYD & RUTH EZELL James EzellJOE BRUCE FRANKLIN Dr. & Mrs. Wiley Richards
SHARON GANT Dr. & Mrs. Roger C. RichardsELIZABETH GATES Dr. & Mrs. Jerry OswaltLEE GODWIN Dr. & Mrs. Thomas A. Kinchen Dr. Charles R. Parker Eric & Kaye Johnson Gary & Jan Martin Dr. & Mrs. Roger C. RichardsA.B. GREEN Robert J. CookJANIE HELLAND Miriam Ridge David Harris Bill & Laura JenkinsRANDALL HINSON David & Deanie DeFelixPAT HUNTER Dr. Charles R. Parker Dr. & Mrs. Roger C. Richards Dr. & Mrs. Wiley Richards Dr. & Mrs. James Robinett Mrs. Deanie DeFelix Eric & Kaye Johnson Bill & Polly Floyd Beverly Harris Dr. & Mrs. Jerry Oswalt Mr. & Mrs. David SconyersMURRELL HYDER Rachel GodwinGERALD JOHNSON Joyce B. LeeGARY KICKLIGHTER Gail MannM. LEE KING Barbara KingLAURA LEE Dr. Charles R. ParkerWANDA McDONALD Dr. & Mrs. Jerry OswaltAUDREY McDOWELL Rachel GodwinREBECCA McLAIN Philip & Joy YounavjakBONNIE McINTYRE Eric & Kaye JohnsonODESSA MILES Annie Lois & Lynn BridgesESTHER MURRELL Phoebe MurrellDARRELL NELSON Rachel GodwinIRENE JANEAL ORR Dr. & Mrs. Thomas A. Kinchen Dr. Charles R. Parker
Dr. & Mrs. Roger C. Richards Dr. & Mrs. Wiley RichardsBETTY PARKER Ronald & Pennijo FowlerHARVEY TIMOTHY PAULK The Curtis Paulk FamilyJEANNE WESTER PELT Grand Ridge School Class of 1949ROVENA PIERCE Dr. Charles R. ParkerDON PRICE Gail MannRETHA ANN PRICE Grace OswaltBOB ROBERTS Elinor RobertsVERA MAY MERTES RYMUS Cliff & Joyce TroyerJOHNNIE SINGLEY The Frances Ivey FamilyBOB SPICER Dr. & Mrs. Jerry OswaltBILL STARLING Dr. & Mrs. Jerry OswaltEDITH THOMPSON Rachel GodwinAL TURNER Rachel GodwinO.P. WARREN Rev. & Mrs. Jim RobinettDICK WHEATLEY Dr. & Mrs. Jerry OswaltTOM & BECKY WHEELER Rebecca Ann LucasCONNIE WHITE James WhiteKANDI WILKINS Robert & June CarterJOHNNY WOMBLE Dr. & Mrs. Jerry Oswalt
The BCF Music & Worship Division leads worship in chapel Monday-Wednesday at 10:00 am during our chapel hour. They also send groups across the United States sharing the message of Christ! If you are interested in hosting one of our music groups, please call 850-263-9027.
ECHOES16
Alabama BCF AlumniCharles F. & Willa AlbrightRev. Timothy I. AlexanderWinifred AllenBen & Barbara AmlongAnderson Family EndowedAngus Lane Anderson & Mary Shy AndersonSara Lucile Anderson MemorialA.B. & Hilda Andrews FamilyPeggy AngeApalachee/Gadsden County Baptist Association HispanicCarl Arant MemorialHelen C. ArgoAgnes P. Axson MemorialJudge W. L. Bailey MemorialBailey-Cox MusicBCF Alumni Association Christopher M. BarberJune Esther BatemanW.O. Beauchamp, Jr. Memorial*A.B. Bedsole MemorialLeroy BenefieldDr. & Mrs. Leroy BenefieldJeff & Mina BloodworthJohn W. & Irene Blount MemorialT.S. BoehmIrene S. BomanOlene BraxtonJ. Walter & Missouri BrewerHomer A. & Irma W. BrinkleyRev. & Mrs. Howard C. BrowningTimothy & Christopher BurnsByrd FamilyMr. & Mrs. W.O. ByrdRobert Edward Chapman, Sr.Thomas Perkins Clifford Jesse W. Clopton, Sr.Evelyn Collier EducationW. Harrison ConleyThomas B. Conrad MemorialBill CookWillis Coulliette MemorialJoe & Ann CoursonGeorge E. Crowell, Sr.Hugh & Shirley DampierJ. Nixon DanielHarold A. Dann MemorialCharles & Martha DavisJohn DicksArminta M. Donaldson
Jacqueline Perry Draughon International Walter D. Draughon, Jr. Mattye E. DuPreeFloyd & Lottie DykesCalvin & Claudia EdekerA.M. & Mae Everett & Lillian S. NagyLloyd T. Ezell & Ruth DeLoney Ezell Memorial Faculty Wives AuxiliaryC.W. FambroughFBC, Eau Gallie, Melbourne, FLFBC, Port CharlotteShelby Foster FisherFlorida Campers on MissionDoris ForrestJames M., Jr. & Josephine C. GarrettMr. & Mrs. L.V. Graham, Sr. MemorialGraves/O’QuinnGreenwood Baptist ChurchHerman F. GreerDalton Hagler, Sr.Hall, Hoffman, & Leary MemorialFlora Jo Hall MemorialJames S. Hallford & Lona Eloise Hallford MemorialThe Robin N. Hamilton Scholarship FundT.J. & Mary Frances Harris MemorialThomas Granville HaydenViolet HaywardCarlton & Lydia HerndonHickox MemorialDr. & Mrs. J.E. HodgesGrace HudspethEarl Hutto FoundationM. Dewitt & Theresa JacksonJakin Baptist ChurchJames-HudspethW.K. JenkinsDale A. JohnsonGus E. & Gena H. JohnsonJ.S. Judah & Mrs. Lula Dillard Judah Dwight & Carolyn KelleyJesse Craig KennonKetner FamilyRuth Ann KinchenN.B. LangfordDavid LauenDr. J.W. & Joyce LeeM.J., P.J. & W.P. LeePhilip W. LettArchie LindermanLitzellN. Edward MannJ.G. ManuelThomas E. (Marty) MartinEarldene McCorvey
Judson & Nellie McElroyMcRae/KnightJames P. & M. Ruby Medlin Missionary Aviation Earl H. MerrittJ. Ronnie MillerR.C. & Lois MillsF.H. MorganG.W. & Mary Frances MorrowJohn L. MurrellBertie Nalls MemorialF.H. NelsonJ.A. & Ethel NicholsWarren J. Nubern MemorialSidney J. & Mary C. OgletreeJerry & Shelvie OswaltPeggy Sue & Rita OswaltEdward & Evelyn Owens and James & Willie McCormick MemorialJ.T. & Charlotte Owens International StudentThe Betty Parker Memorial ScholarshipViolet PearsonM.G. & Ethel P. PiggProvidence Village BaptistLeonard G. Ratzlaff MemorialRice-SavellMax & Laura RobinettMarion C. RocheRomanian ScholarshipBarbara W. RossSt. Andrews Baptist Church and Mark & Angela Rathel HonorariumC.H. St. JohnJames M. ScottJames H. & Voncile B. SenterfillSerena ShuttHarold & Marie SmithJefferson Lee Smith MemorialJim & Mabel SoutherlandSouthern Baptist FoundationSpangenbergL.D. & D.M. SpiveyArthur StainbackThe Dr. & Mrs. Earl Stallings Endowed Ministerial Scholarship Lloyd & Eva Mae StanlandMarvin & Hazel StarlingGerry StrawnJohn & Nancy Sullivan Scholarship FundThe Taylor Summers & Janie Johnston Moorer Memorial Scholarship FundHarold & Mary Ann TaylorKay S. TaylorLanis E. TaylorPurvis N. Taylor
Endowed Scholarships*added scholarships in 2015
17 SPRING 2016
baptistcollege.edu
Thacker Family ScholarshipEugene ThompsonTolson Bivocational Ministers’Austin Lavon TomlinsonWilliam E. Touchton, Jr. MemorialO.H. TownleyMr. & Mrs. W.B. Townley, Sr.Martha P. TrotterEva Rebecca VaughnC.N. WalkerN.K. WalkerGladys WasdinGlen WatfordJohn C. Watson and Julian & Cammie Cole MemorialWebbWest Florida Associational BrotherhoodPencie W. Wester FamilyThe Tom & Becky Wheeler Memorial Scholarship FundJames W. Whitfield & Charles D. CrewsJames Whitworth MemorialGlen & Margaret WillseyLuther W. & Ruby R. WoodwardKen Yates
Class of 1965 Francis J. MartinClass of 1967 J. Frank HayClass of 1970 Charles A. LitzellClass of 1971 Kenneth H. GerenClass of 1974 Robert L. CarterClass of 1975 Eula Saylor J.B. WellsClass of 1976 Leon Zalenski Thomas R. StewardClass of 1977 Thomas W. Ledbetter Glenn C. Willsey Roy Lamar CordleClass of 1978 Danny W. RogersClass of 1979 Hugh Edwin Dampier Willie B. ParkerClass of 1980 Lloyd Miner
Class of 1981 Roy B. Bateman Class of 1983 James Frank Yates Charles D. ShoreClass of 1985 Kent J. Lampp Roger D. WoodardClass of 1986 Daniel J. Bayse Howard A. Budden Gary Ben MartinClass of 1987 John Phillip Shutt Class of 1991 Joseph C. AlainClass of 1992 James David CogginsClass of 1993 David Scott GrierClass of 1995 William S. ChandlerClass of 1997 Charles WarrenClass of 1999 Laura Blick Mike OrrClass of 2000 Marshall Mason Blick Dennis Scott Hall Bradley Curtis HughesClass of 2002 David Wolfe HechtClass of 2004 Henry Fullington Thomas Edward SmithClass of 2006 Christie M. RossClass of 2007 Marion Betty JacksonClass of 2008 Matthew Lee GluckClass of 2012 Mike Orr Stephanie Wann OrrClass of 2013 James A. OneyClass of 2014 Donovan Tyler Higgins
Nora AlexanderBenjamin S. BeachMarty Leitha Elkin BellMarguerite BomanGary CrawfordVerna Whitfield CrewsBertha C. DanielMae S. DavisMartha Elizabeth Connally DavisCol. & Mrs. Syril FaineMary White FolksDoris ForrestMrs. Clifford H. GrowViolet HaywardEta J. HiltonMr. & Mrs. Harry HolmesGena JohnsonThomas Tapley JonesDr. & Mrs. Thomas A. KinchenCharles & Dorothy LitzellMr. and Mrs. Arthur McDougalLucius Henry McMullenHenry MesserLeona B. NewmanMary C. OgletreeCharles A. & Lenore PearsonShoffie Riley Newton PhillipsLela M. PrescottAnne RathjeRev. & Mrs. John H. ReynoldsWiley & Betty RichardsLewis & Mabel RogersJames M. ScottDillard F. SebastianCharles D. ShoreIrene Hale SkinnerConrad & Ruth B. St. JohnElmer G. “Bud” & Norma TaylorAlice Faye Rackley WarrenJames H. Warren, Sr.Sam Weeks
Heritage Society members are among the faithful who have bequest to The Baptist College of Florida or have included the college in their will or estate plan. To become a member, the college should receive written notification by letter or a copy of a part of the trust agreement, will, or codicil that lists the college as a beneficiary.
Alumni Gifts for 2015
Heritage Society
ECHOES18
For two students at The Baptist College of Florida (BCF) in Graceville, following the leadership of God to a new place is nothing new. Haden and Austin Keough have moved all over the world and lived in many different places as their family followed the call to serve in ministry, but not in the way that you might think.
Haden and Austin are second generation BCF students following their father, Peter Keough. Peter Keough is a Chaplain in the United States Army holding the rank of Major and serving in the U.S. Military for more than 26 years. Keough graduated from BCF in 1999 and received his Bachelor’s degree while his sons were very young. Haden, 21, spent his toddler years in Graceville, while Austin, 18, was born in a nearby hospital during the Keough family’s time at BCF. After college and seminary, the Keough family moved all over the globe including serving in Germany.
Though the Keough brothers
have called various places home, continuing their education at BCF is a homecoming of sorts for them. “Living far away from my family was tough at first,” Haden stated. “I was scared of living in my dad’s shadow, but BCF shaped me and helped me to grow. Because of God, BCF, and my family, my experiences shaped me and helped me build my own identity. I love BCF because it feels like home.” Austin echoes the feelings of a home-like atmosphere at BCF that shaped him as well, “I was born here. My dad loved this school and now I see what he saw. I love the small family type atmosphere and the one on one mentorship and fellowship of professors.”
Both the Keough brothers and their father attribute The Baptist College of Florida as a catalyst that helped to propel them to success. Haden, a Ministry Studies major who serves as a youth pastor and part-time member of BCF’s Audio/Visual tech team, says, “Everything that BCF does is
designed to help you grow spiritually, academically, and as a whole person. Because of my training at BCF, I have been equipped to serve in youth ministry.” Austin, also a Ministry Studies major, attributes spiritual growth to an invested faculty and staff, “The community is great and I love living and growing here.”
Both brothers look up to their father as an embodiment of what it means to be a Christian father and a leader. “Dad got his first church staff position while he was attending BCF,” the brothers say. “He is my role model,” Austin affirms, “We have a great relationship and I aspire to be like him. He loves ministry and raised us in a Christ-like way. He is a hard worker in the workplace, but also works hard to enjoy and spend time with our family.”
“Our family loves BCF,” Haden states, “it has been a huge part of all of our lives.” The Baptist College of Florida can be a part of your life too.
Haden & Austin Keough | around the world and back again
students
19 SPRING 2016
baptistcollege.edu
Bill & Dena Stanley both graduated from The Baptist College of Florida with B.A. degrees. Bill is currently working on an MA degree from the University of Florida in Mass Communication. The Stanley’s are co-founders of Nomad Community Church, Melbourne and the East Coast Human Trafficking Task Force. Together they are also involved in several independent film projects ranging from action drama to documentary, biography and fictional adaptation.
Born in Daytona Beach, FL, Bill was the first of three children. Shortly after the birth of his brothers, his parents divorced. Living through the struggles of a broken home, Bill learned how to survive in school, relationships and life overcoming problems with anger, self-esteem and depression. Bill Stanley speaks on several high school and college campuses each year on global initiatives and teen life. He also leads seminars including, Your Future Your Choice, Living Vulnerably, and My Own Reality, Lessons on Life, God and Growing up as the Class Clown. He also consults with various churches
on leadership development. Bill Stanley and his family, his wife Dena, who he is still very much in love with, live in Melbourne, Florida with their only
daughter Zoe. A close knit, fun-loving family, the Stanley’s enjoy long walks with their greyhound Fire-Dancer, being active to stay healthy, and trips to the beach and local parks.
Bill and Dena married in June 1993 just before moving to Graceville to start the Fall Semester. While at BCF, Bill served as the youth pastor of Bethel Baptist Church in Newton, AL. Following graduation, he became the youth pastor at Kinsey Baptist Church in Alabama and worked bi-vocationally as a coach at Emmanuel Christian School in Dothan, AL.
Dena worked her entire BCF career for Dr. Jerry Windsor (now retired) as his assistant and grader. Upon graduating in 1998, she began her teaching career and now works as a mentor and coach to teachers for at risk students at John F. Kennedy Middle School and Viera High School in Brevard County, FL.
Bill (’97) & Dena (’98) Stanley | melbourne, flalumni
“Bill and I arrived at BCF very young and on our own. Truly on our own. We had great friends and family back home, but no real financial source outside of our work in and around Graceville. The example the professors put forth made a huge impression on us, especially in the area of giving. One professor in particular who was always giving was Dr. Windsor. He would often give various gifts to us as well as paying for meals around town. Our fellow students were our family. We
took care of each other by grilling out, preparing meals or doing pot-luck dinners with our neighbors. We even ministered to the neighbors together, sometimes making hospital visits, gathering kids for church or even making grocery runs for single moms. We are blessed not only by our education but the entire life experience BCF afforded us.”
- Dena Stanley
ECHOES20
In July of 1996, Jon and Sharon Beck moved from Covington, GA to Graceville, FL to attend The Baptist College of Florida with their three children, Brantley, Emily, and Brice. He graduated in December of 1998 with a B.A. in Theology. Due to his undergraduate degree, Beck was able to pursue and complete an Advanced M.Div. from the Billy Graham School of Evangelism, Missions, and Church Growth from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, KY.
While attending BCF, Beck pastored at Wausau First Baptist Church, was involved on campus as a Presidential Ambassador, and sang with the Male Chorale. Upon leaving Graceville, he was called as pastor of Bethel Baptist Church in North Vernon, IN. While serving and living there, he commuted to Louisville to complete his M.Div. He served at Bethel from 1998 to
Top: Beck Family while serving at FBC Wausau in the late 90s.Left: Beck family as of November 2015.Right: John and Sharon Beck at BCF Missions Conference.
2008 when he moved to Georgia and then to Florida serving as Senior Pastor of New Holland Baptist Church in Gainesville, GA and then First Baptist Church of Avon Park, FL.
In 2015, Jon and Sharon accepted a position with the North American Mission Board (NAMB) as Church Planting Catalyst of Minnesota. They had been involved as a supporting church with the Minnesota - Wisconsin Baptist Convention for seven years. As a church planting catalyst, the majority of their ministry emphasis is the planting of new and multiplying churches. They are responsible for the state of Minnesota, outside the metropolitan Twin Cities area. This area is the size of Ohio and Kentucky combined. They currently have 36 SBC churches within this area with a person to SBC church ratio of 1 church for every 73,687 people.
Sharon and Jon call St. Cloud, Minnesota home and are members of Park Fellowship Church. They have the privilege of investing their lives into the lives of others as they travel within the state to encourage and mobilize the existing churches, but also as they discover, develop, and deploy church planters.
When asking Jon how his experience at BCF has helped him to change the world, he’ll tell you, “The education and relationships that we received in Graceville laid the foundation for which we have built our ministry upon. Our time will always be greatly cherished, and we will forever be grateful unto the Lord for the opportunity.”
Jon Beck (’98) | st. cloud, mnalumnus
21 SPRING 2016
baptistcollege.edu
Brittany Blowers (’13) | botswana, africa
“‘What is your favorite part about being a missionary?’ I have been asked this question many times since I have been living in Botswana and one story always comes to mind. I was sitting under a tree in a village in Botswana, Africa and I just finished sharing the gospel with a lady named Botlhe. She understood the gospel and prayed to receive Christ that day. As she prayed I sat in awe of God and how He worked in her heart. My answer to the commonly asked question? The moment that someone understands the gospel and surrenders to God, that is my favorite part. When grace is given and the power of God works in the heart of a sinner, that is my favorite part.
Since December 2013, God has taken me on a journey that will forever be imprinted on my heart. I graduated from BCF in December 2013 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Missions. After I graduated, I was in the process of preparing to serve in
Botswana, Africa as a journeyman with the International Mission Board (IMB). In June of 2013, I attended a training in Virginia to prepare me for living and sharing the gospel cross-culturally. The following September, I stepped off a plane in Botswana, Africa ready to do the work that God had prepared for me.
My specific job in Botswana was a ministry coordinator. I worked alongside of career missionaries with the International Mission Board. I assisted in coordinating ministry opportunities for volunteer teams traveling from the United States. I also helped in facilitating orientation and debrief for the volunteer teams. The volunteer teams that I worked with had incredible opportunities to assist in church planting in many different villages. We were involved in door to door evangelism as well as discipling and mentoring new believers. Over the past year we have worked in two villages and have been able to see two
churches started. Another part of my ministry in Botswana was discipling and mentoring young women. For the past year, I have worked with three young women helping them to study the Bible on their own as well as sharing their faith boldly. I have seen God working in them as they have been a bold witness for God and are now capable of discipling and mentoring other young women.
I am thankful for how my time at BCF prepared me for ministry and work in Botswana. One of the many things I treasure the most about BCF is how my professors gave of their time and energy to pour into their students as well as the many times they took time to pray for me. The gift of their time and prayers encouraged me to remain steadfast in the Lord and continue to walk in obedience to the calling that God has placed on my life.”
alumnus
ECHOES22
Paul Fries retired from the United States Air Force (USAF) in September of 1991 and was accepted into the Divinity program at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. In November of 1991, having already completed an Associate degree while in the USAF, Fries decided to transfer and complete an undergrad degree. Searching through the seminary library, he found a book listing all the Baptist schools in America. Fries had three criteria: a theology degree, low cost, and located in the southeastern US. There were two schools fitting his criteria: Clear Creek Bible College in KY and Florida Baptist Theological College (FBTC) in Graceville, FL. Fries chose to visit FBTC because it was accredited. “A friend and I drove to Graceville in November 1991 to visit the campus,” recalled Fries, “I had never been to FL and had never heard of FBTC until that moment in the library. We attended chapel, attended a couple of classes and I was convinced this was the place for me. I went home and we made plans to move.”
About 2 weeks before leaving NC to move to Graceville, Fries had it in mind to abandon the plans altogether. “I almost chickened out,” he said, “We were moving to FL with no house, no job and no knowledge of the area. I shared this with the family and Rebekah looked up and said, ‘Haven’t you always told us that when God calls us to do
A current Fries family portrait.
Left to Right: Jared, Paul, Cheryl, Rebekah, and Micah Fries
something He will take care of us?’ That ended any thoughts of not moving because I was confident God was in this move.”
Fries proudly tells people that his theological foundation was gained at The Baptist College of Florida. The college has been a very important part of their lives for the past 24 years. “I continue to recommend people to the college even as I serve in Wisconsin. I am grateful to Dr. Kinchen and his leadership, and the professors for their personal care of the students. Our family will be forever indebted to the school for its influence on our family.”
In recent years, Fries has served on the State Board, as Team Leader for Church Planting, and as Second Vice
President of the Minnesota-Wisconsin Baptist Convention. Currently Fries serves as the President of the Minnesota-Wisconsin Baptist Convention.
In all of his ministry, Fries says that his wife Cheryl has been an essential part of the journey. “She supported me leaving the USAF and returning to college, not knowing where we would live or how we would pay for it all. She is a godly wife, mother, and friend.” While his wife may not have “attended” BCF, Fries says that she is “the real part of the reason the rest of us could.Fries has a family legacy at BCF: - Micah Fries (2001); now working as the Vice President of LifeWay Research - Rebekah Fries Phillips (2004) - Chris Phillips, son-in-law, Rebekah’s husband (2008) - Jared Fries (attended 1998-2000) - Tracy Hartman Fries, daughter-in-law, Micah’s wife (attended 1998-2000)
Paul Fries (’94) | a BCF legacyalumnus
23 SPRING 2016
baptistcollege.edu
to update your alumni information or to have a packet of promotional information sent to you, please contact us at 800.328.2660 ext. 552 or [email protected]
ALUMNI UPDATES |Cabaniss, Charlie (’79) is currently serving as the Music Minister at Trinity Baptist
Church in Mooresboro, NC. For the past 11 years he has toured with the Gospel Group, Four Anointed. Over the years they sang for various benefits, sung the national anthem at ball games, opened twice for The Hoppers, opened for the Smith Family Dinner Theater in Pigeon Forge, and performed at Singing on the Mountain on Grandfather Mountain. He can be reached at 710 Maynard Street, Shelby, NC 28152.
Harlow, Elaine “Barfield” (’88) is currently serving as pianist at First Baptist
Church of Graceville, FL, and teaches chorus and music theatre at Marianna High School. She and her husband, Matthew, got married on March 7, 2015. He also works with the school board. They can be reached at 5276 Brown Street, Graceville, FL 32440; ph: 706-201-4005; email: [email protected]
Hurley, Bob (’93) has been serving as the Facility Manager at Rocky Bayou
Baptist Church since November 2015. He and his wife, Gail, can be reached at 1468 Travers Ct, Niceville, FL 32578; ph: 850-499-5384; email: [email protected]
Clark, Robert (’01) works as a clinical counselor with Resilience Counseling
providing clinical work as well as Christian Counseling. He can be reached at 2802 North Carroll Ave
#5204, Dallas, TX 75204; ph: 214-907-0089; email: [email protected], Scott (’01) serves at Shiloh Church, a Multicultural Church Plant in Orange Park, FL, as a Sunday school teacher and with their Media Ops. He and his wife, Tammie, can be reached at 1653 Rhonda Drive, Middleburg, FL 32068; ph: 904-276-4518; email: [email protected], William (’02) serves as the Senior Pastor of Weems Road Free Will Baptist Church in Columbus, GA. Along with being a pastor, he also serves as the CEO/Founder of Hear the Cries of the Children of India Mission. They travel to India annually for 30 days, taking teams to the mission field. He and his wife, Salina, can be reached at P.O. Box 242, Fortson, GA 31808; ph: 706-507-1702; email: [email protected], Jennifer (’05) recently joined ShuffieldLowman law firm in Orlando, FL, practicing in estate planning and probate in both the Tavares and Orlando offices.Hudson, Karl (’07) accepted a position to work as an Admissions Counselor at The Baptist College of Florida in the fall of 2015. In December of 2015, he began serving as the interim pastor of Poplar Head Baptist Church in Clarksville, FL. Karl plans to graduate in the fall of 2016 with his M.A. in Christian Studies from BCF. He, Suzanne (his wife), and Kailyn (their daughter) can be reached at 1157 Sanders Avenue Apt. 40, Graceville, FL 32440; ph: 334-791-4333; email: [email protected]
Bean, Benjamin (’11) graduated with his Master of Arts from Columbia
International University. While at CIU he taught English to Muslims and now Ben is doing mission work in Kazerstan.Monk, Rocky (’15) works with a young professional group in regards to teaching and building community. He can be reached at 7028 Archwood Drive, Orlando, FL 32819; ph: 407-437-9643; email: [email protected], Martha (’15) and her husband, Dennis, recently moved to South Carolina with the hopes of soon moving to North Carolina. Martha works with the Jungle Aviation and Radio Service (JAARS), in Waxhaw, NC. They can be contacted through their church, New Life Baptist Fellowship at 350 Old Furnace Road, Boiling Springs, SC 29316; ph: 864-541-8877; email: [email protected]
70
80
90
00
10
The Baptist College of Florida brings in students from across the United States to study the Word of God and to gather together in worship. Pictured above are the following students and their respective hometowns: Left to Right - Skylar Teel (Lynn Haven, FL), Hanson LeBouf (Panama City, FL), Hunter Eubanks (Tallahassee, FL), Briana Monrose (Alvarado, TX), Christy Lema (Miami, FL), Tony Williamson (Alvarado, TX), and Hunter Higgins (Sanford, FL).
ECHOES24
