Regional Gatherings Replace Homecoming 2025
For 2025, BJU will not host its annual Homecoming on campus. As we prepare for the larger than normal crowds during the centennial year Homecoming (2026), the Alumni Relations Department decided to bring a little bit of “home” closer to you with regional gatherings. This fall, we will host nine regional gatherings in locations spread throughout the East and Midwest. The locations were chosen based on where the largest number of alumni live. More details will be coming soon, but for now, save the date for one of the fall regional gatherings closest to you.
Philadelphia and Washington DC areas over the weekend of September 5—6
Detroit and Dayton areas over the weekend of September 19—20
Charlotte and Raleigh areas over the weekend of October 3—4
Greenville, SC area over the weekend of October 24—25
Jacksonville and Tampa areas over the weekend of November 14—15
We tentatively plan to host additional regional gatherings in the West during the Spring semester, but those details will be announced at a later date. At each of these regional events, we look forward to sharing what God is doing on campus and how BJU is accelerating into the next 100 years!
Regional Gatherings Replace Homecoming 2025
For 2025, BJU will not host its annual Homecoming on campus. As we prepare for the larger than normal crowds during the centennial year Homecoming (2026), the Alumni Relations Department decided to bring a little bit of “home” closer to you with regional gatherings. This fall, we will host nine regional gatherings in locations spread throughout the East and Midwest. The locations were chosen based on where the largest number of alumni live.
More details will be coming soon, but for now, save the date for one of the fall regional gatherings closest to you.
Philadelphia and Washington DC areas over the weekend of September 5—6
Detroit and Dayton areas over the weekend of September 19—20
Charlotte and Raleigh areas over the weekend of October 3—4
Greenville, SC area over the weekend of October 24—25
Jacksonville and Tampa areas over the weekend of November 14—15
We tentatively plan to host additional regional gatherings in the West during the Spring semester, but those details will be announced at a later date. At each of these regional events, we look forward to sharing what God is doing on campus and how BJU is accelerating into the next 100 years!
Vintage Dedicatees
This year, the Vintage was dedicated to two of BJU’s most loved and inspiring professors.
Throughout her ministry at Bob Jones University, Linda Abrams has exemplified a dedication and passion for education that inspire her colleagues and students. By the end of this academic year, May 2025, Linda will have completed 43 years of service to BJU.
As the founder and director of BJU’s Center for Effective Teaching and Engaged Learning (CETEL), Linda has been instrumental in enhancing the pedagogical skills of BJU faculty. She directs activities and projects for new faculty members; the CETEL May Institute, which provides professional development sessions for faculty members; and “Edubreaks,” seminars on special topics relative to teaching expertise.
Through these contributions, Linda seeks to improve teaching effectiveness and foster experiential learning on campus. According to colleagues, Linda’s efforts have elevated the teaching standards at BJU, making her an invaluable asset to the University.
“Linda is a teacher’s teacher,” said a friend, “and she understands the needs of both faculty members and students. With this understanding, she empowers others to succeed.”
Linda’s commitment to professional development is evident through her continuous engagement with modern teaching methods, participation in education conferences, and extensive research on educational theory. For twenty-two years she has served as an advisor to the BJU delegation to the South Carolina Student Legislature, leading the group to win “Best Delegation” award fifteen times.
In addition to her academic and administrative roles, Linda is a respected political analyst. National media outlets such as The Boston Globe, The Charlotte News and Observer, Die Zeit, and Bloomberg News have featured her interviews, and Greenville’s WYFF 4 News frequently highlights Linda as a political analyst. Her expertise lies in the intersection of conservative Christianity and the American political system.
Linda’s dedication to education extends beyond the classroom. She has led study abroad courses to France and missions teams to rural Kenya and urban South Africa. Her extensive travels enrich her teaching, and she believes integrating literature, music, and art into her classes offers students a well-rounded understanding of the subject matter. Actively involved in her church, she serves in the nursery and teaches Sunday school to elementary and junior high young people. Linda has also completed numerous language courses at BJU to better engage with her church’s Spanish-speaking ministry. Linda enjoys traveling with her husband (retired faculty member Carl Abrams), spending time with her grandchildren, and cooking.
For her humble spirit, ongoing commitment to Bob Jones University, and desire to show Christ in everything she does, Linda Abrams is the 2025 Vintage co-dedicatee.
Throughout his ministry at Bob Jones University, Dr. Dan Olinger has exemplified the qualities of a faithful servant of Jesus Christ: “in work, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity” (1 Tim. 4:12). By the end of this academic year, May 2025, Dan will have completed 49 total years of service to BJU.
Having earned a PhD in Theology from Bob Jones University, Dan has taught courses in theology, New Testament, and Old Testament, with special interest in ecclesiology and the Pauline Epistles. As Chair of the Division of Bible, he has been instrumental in shaping undergraduate and graduate theological education at BJU. For 18 years he has led the BJU summer ministry team to Africa, extending his influence and ministry beyond the classroom.
Dan’s commitment to biblical education is also evident through his extensive teaching experience internationally. He has taught Bible courses in China, Ghana, Kenya, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Saipan, St. Vincent, South Africa, and Zambia. According to a current BJU Seminary student, Dan’s global teaching experiences enrich his classes, providing students with a broad perspective on biblical studies.
In addition to teaching, Dan has served on the boards of Mission to Haiti and The Shanghai Institute of Health Sciences. He has written extensively for BJU Press publications and speaks regularly at churches, camps, and educational conferences.
“His dedication to making Bible teaching understandable and lively is a hallmark of his career,” says a colleague. Dan hopes his students will not only be well acquainted with but also lovers of God’s Word.
Dan’s approach to Bible teaching goes beyond head knowledge, for he emphasizes the practical application of biblical truth, aiming to instill a heartfelt understanding of the Bible in his students. He is a continual learner, always seeking to grow and improve in his field.
During Dan’s early career, which included five years as an English Graduate Assistant while completing his seminary degree, he honed his writing skills. His work at BJU Press, which included drafting positional statements for the institution, reflects his commitment to the University’s liberal arts focus that aims to develop the whole person. In his current role Dan reflects the University’s pursuit of academic excellence, but he likewise maintains a strong focus on the arts. Showcasing his diverse talent, Dan has performed in numerous productions of Shakespeare on campus.
Dan and his wife, Pam, are members of Grace Baptist Fellowship in Greenville. They have two daughters and enjoy spending time together as a family.
For his humble spirit, ongoing commitment to Bob Jones University, and desire to reflect Christ in everything he does, Dr. Dan Olinger is the 2025 Vintage co-dedicatee.
Citations and photographs provided by the 2025 BJU Vintage staff, Anna Peterson, editor.
Vintage Dedicatees
This year, the Vintage was dedicated to two of BJU’s most loved and inspiring professors.
Throughout her ministry at Bob Jones University, Linda Abrams has exemplified a dedication and passion for education that inspire her colleagues and students. By the end of this academic year, May 2025, Linda will have completed 43 years of service to BJU.
Through these contributions, Linda seeks to improve teaching effectiveness and foster experiential learning on campus. According to colleagues, Linda’s efforts have elevated the teaching standards at BJU, making her an invaluable asset to the University.
“Linda is a teacher’s teacher,” said a friend, “and she understands the needs of both faculty members and students. With this understanding, she empowers others to succeed.”
Linda’s commitment to professional development is evident through her continuous engagement with modern teaching methods, participation in education conferences, and extensive research on educational theory. For twenty-two years she served as an advisor to the BJU delegation to the South Carolina Student Legislature, leading the group to win “Best Delegation” award fifteen times.
In addition to her academic and administrative roles, Linda is a respected political analyst. National media outlets such as The Boston Globe, The Charlotte News and Observer, Die Zeit, and Bloomberg News have featured her interviews, and Greenville’s WYFF 4 News frequently highlights Linda as a political analyst. Her expertise lies in the intersection of conservative Christianity and the American political system.
Linda’s dedication to education extends beyond the classroom. She has led study abroad courses to France and missions teams to rural Kenya and urban South Africa. Her extensive travels enrich her teaching, and she believes integrating literature, music, and art into her classes offers students a well-rounded understanding of the subject matter. Actively involved in her church, she serves in the nursery and teaches Sunday school to elementary and junior high young people. Linda has also completed numerous language courses at BJU to better engage with her church’s Spanish-speaking ministry. Linda enjoys traveling with her husband (retired faculty member Carl Abrams), spending time with her grandchildren, and cooking.
For her humble spirit, ongoing commitment to Bob Jones University, and desire to show Christ in everything she does, Linda Abrams is the 2025 Vintage co-dedicatee.
Throughout his ministry at Bob Jones University, Dr. Dan Olinger has exemplified the qualities of a faithful servant of Jesus Christ: “in work, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity” (1 Tim. 4:12). By the end of this academic year, May 2025, Dan will have completed 49 total years of service to BJU.
Dan’s commitment to biblical education is also evident through his extensive teaching experience internationally. He has taught Bible courses in China, Ghana, Kenya, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Saipan, St. Vincent, South Africa, and Zambia. According to a current BJU Seminary student, Dan’s global teaching experiences enrich his classes, providing students with a broad perspective on biblical studies.
In addition to teaching, Dan has served on the boards of Mission to Haiti and The Shanghai Institute of Health Sciences. He has written extensively for BJU Press publications and speaks regularly at churches, camps, and educational conferences.
“His dedication to making Bible teaching understandable and lively is a hallmark of his career,” says a colleague. Dan hopes his students will not only be well acquainted with but also lovers of God’s Word.
Dan’s approach to Bible teaching goes beyond head knowledge, for he emphasizes the practical application of biblical truth, aiming to instill a heartfelt understanding of the Bible in his students. He is a continual learner, always seeking to grow and improve in his field.
During Dan’s early career, which included five years as an English Graduate Assistant while completing his seminary degree, he honed his writing skills. His work at BJU Press, which included drafting positional statements for the institution, reflects his commitment to the University’s liberal arts focus that aims to develop the whole person. In his current role Dan reflects the University’s pursuit of academic excellence, but he likewise maintains a strong focus on the arts. Showcasing his diverse talent, Dan has performed in numerous productions of Shakespeare on campus.
Dan and his wife, Pam, are members of Grace Baptist Fellowship in Greenville. They have two daughters and enjoy spending time together as a family.
For his humble spirit, ongoing commitment to Bob Jones University, and desire to reflect Christ in everything he does, Dr. Dan Olinger is the 2025 Vintage co-dedicatee.
Citations and photographs provided by the 2025 BJU Vintage staff, Anna Peterson, editor.
IRON40 HELPS STUDENTS CONTINUE THEIR RACE
When the IRON40 endeavor was unveiled weeks ago, the core objective was to make BJU affordable for scores if not hundreds of students who desire but cannot afford the BJU experience. The four days of back-to-back triathlons were attention grabbing and unifying to our community, especially for the students. But those positive outcomes were a bonus — the primary objective still needed to be achieved. Weeks went by and more money came in, along with the promise of a matching gift. The academic year was rapidly coming to a close, when the news broke that IRON40 had crossed the finish line — the financial goal of ONE MILLION DOLLARS was met!
Beyond the students, many from the broader BJU community were inspired to give toward this scholarship fund. And because of that generosity, students who likely would not be able to attend in the fall due to financial hurdles will be here. A new student who desired to start her own educational race at BJU just received $4,000 from this fundraiser. One day she was deciding what to do next because she could not afford to come and the very next day, she received the thrilling news she would be at BJU in the fall!
That is one success story, but there are many more to come because the IRON40 fundraiser reached the goal of one million dollars! The final number of students that will be helped by these scholarship funds is yet unknown, but this academic year, 127 students were at BJU because of a generous donation of $500,000. We look forward to seeing how God will use this year’s million-dollar fundraiser to provide a BJU transformative experience for even more students.
Thank you, alumni and friends, for showing your commitment — through prayers and financial support — to Christian higher education, specifically Bob Jones University. For more information or to view highlights from the IRON40 challenge, please visit IRON40.BJU.EDU.
IRON40 HELPS STUDENTS CONTINUE THEIR RACE
When the IRON40 endeavor was unveiled weeks ago, the core objective was to make BJU affordable for scores if not hundreds of students who desire but cannot afford the BJU experience. The four days of back-to-back triathlons were attention grabbing and unifying to our community, especially for the students. But those positive outcomes were a bonus — the primary objective still needed to be achieved. Weeks went by and more money came in, along with the promise of a matching gift. The academic year was rapidly coming to a close, when the news broke that IRON40 had crossed the finish line — the financial goal of ONE MILLION DOLLARS was met!
Beyond the students, many from the broader BJU community were inspired to give toward this scholarship fund. And because of that generosity, students who likely would not be able to attend in the fall due to financial hurdles will be here. A new student who desired to start her own educational race at BJU just received $4,000 from this fundraiser. One day she was deciding what to do next because she could not afford to come and the very next day, she received the thrilling news she would be at BJU in the fall!
That is one success story, but there are many more to come because the IRON40 fundraiser reached the goal of one million dollars! The final number of students that will be helped by these scholarship funds is yet unknown, but this academic year, 127 students were at BJU because of a generous donation of $500,000. We look forward to seeing how God will use this year’s million-dollar fundraiser to provide a BJU transformative experience for even more students.
Thank you, alumni and friends, for showing your commitment — through prayers and financial support — to Christian higher education, specifically Bob Jones University. For more information or to view highlights from the IRON40 challenge, please visit IRON40.BJU.EDU.
2025 BJU Study Abroad Courses
Over the next three months, BJU students and faculty from seven academic divisions will participate in eight study abroad courses spread across Central America, South America, Europe, Eastern Europe and Africa.
As a course, each trip is intentionally designed to meet certain academic and worldview outcomes and creates a learning environment that cannot be duplicated in a regular classroom. Dr. Jeremy Patterson directs the BJU Study Abroad and Study USA program and summarizes the experience as “taking you out of the classroom, off campus and to the people, sites and cultures that bring your studies to life.”
The first study abroad group embarked on their journey the day after graduation, closely followed by three more groups this week. The remaining four study abroad courses are spread throughout June and July.
2025 BJU Study Abroad Courses
Over the next three months, BJU students and faculty from seven academic divisions will participate in eight study abroad courses spread across Central America, South America, Europe, Eastern Europe and Africa.
As a course, each trip is intentionally designed to meet certain academic and worldview outcomes and creates a learning environment that cannot be duplicated in a regular classroom. Dr. Jeremy Patterson directs the BJU Study Abroad and Study USA program and summarizes the experience as “taking you out of the classroom, off campus and to the people, sites and cultures that bring your studies to life.”
The first study abroad group embarked on their journey the day after graduation, closely followed by three more groups this week. The remaining four study abroad courses are spread throughout June and July.
Latest Book Authored by Chris Anderson
I continue to be deeply grateful for the training I received at BJU. I especially appreciate the godly mentors who taught me how to handle the Scriptures and how to write. Their investments have helped me in my ministry every single day, whether preaching, composing hymns, or writing books and devotionals to serve Christ’s church. My latest book is Sundown to Sundown, a series of meditations on the twenty-four hours preceding Jesus’ death. There is no subject more deserving of our attention than Jesus’ suffering, and I pray that the book will be a help to many. It is available from Church Works Media and on Amazon, and it received the following endorsement from Dr. Josh Crockett:
“Chris Anderson helps us reflect on the final hours of Jesus’ life—the redemptive work that changed everything for us. This devotional is an invitation to find hope in the midst of sorrow. Each day’s reading is paired with a beautiful hymn, echoing the themes of the Scripture and inviting us into a deeper, more personal worship experience. These reflections will nourish your soul and guide you closer to the heart of Christ. As you meditate each day on His last hours, your appreciation for Christ’s cross will deepen. Sundown to Sundown will leave you moved by the grace of the One Who gave His all for you.”
Latest Book Authored by Chris Anderson
I continue to be deeply grateful for the training I received at BJU. I especially appreciate the godly mentors who taught me how to handle the Scriptures and how to write. Their investments have helped me in my ministry every single day, whether preaching, composing hymns, or writing books and devotionals to serve Christ’s church.
My latest book is Sundown to Sundown, a series of meditations on the twenty-four hours preceding Jesus’ death. There is no subject more deserving of our attention than Jesus’ suffering, and I pray that the book will be a help to many. It is available from Church Works Media and on Amazon, and it received the following endorsement from Dr. Josh Crockett:
“Chris Anderson helps us reflect on the final hours of Jesus’ life—the redemptive work that changed everything for us. This devotional is an invitation to find hope in the midst of sorrow. Each day’s reading is paired with a beautiful hymn, echoing the themes of the Scripture and inviting us into a deeper, more personal worship experience. These reflections will nourish your soul and guide you closer to the heart of Christ. As you meditate each day on His last hours, your appreciation for Christ’s cross will deepen. Sundown to Sundown will leave you moved by the grace of the One Who gave His all for you.”
SUmMER READING CHALLENGE
It’s almost time for JourneyForth’s 2025 Summer Reading Challenge, and your children and grandchildren are invited to participate! This challenge offered by JourneyForth, an imprint of BJU Press, encourages students ages 4–17 to strengthen their reading muscles by reading 15 minutes a day for 40 days. Registration starts June 1. Learn more about the program and the prizes by clicking the button below
SUMMER READING CHALLENGE
It’s almost time for JourneyForth’s 2025 Summer Reading Challenge, and your children and grandchildren are invited to participate! This challenge offered by JourneyForth, an imprint of BJU Press, encourages students ages 4–17 to strengthen their reading muscles by reading 15 minutes a day for 40 days. Registration starts June 1. Learn more about the program and the prizes by clicking the button below
Employment Opportunities
BJU Faculty Positions
BJA Positions
Alumni Updates
Future Bruins
Baral, David ‘13 and Tabitha (Hall) ‘13, Daniel Jeffrey, March 29, 2025
Conn, Daniel ‘21 and Natalie (Larsen) ‘19, Henry William, March 21, 2025
Garbrick, Matthew and Molly (Wilson) ‘19, Maci Lee, April 8, 2025
MacAvoy, Nathan ’14 and Martha (Countryman) ’14, Genevieve Martha, May 4, 2025
Roos, Blain and Tiffany (Staats) ‘06, Emilia Kate, January 27, 2025
Rouse, Ambrose ‘19 and Briseydi (Velasco) ’19, Augustine Andrés, May 4, 2025
Marriages
King: Joy Fonte ‘23 to Tyler, March 3, 2025
Matthia: Lydia Loescher ‘24 to Jason ‘18, April 12, 2025
Deaths
Andrews, William “Dewey” ‘90, September 2, 2024
Baranuk, Rachel (Wilder) ‘70, March 18, 2025
Bramlett, Richard “Bud” ‘76 ICS, March 21, 2025
Bennett, David ’80, April 7, 2025
Beverly, Carol (Hurst) ‘68, April 17, 2025
Cooper, Russell, ’65, Aprill 11, 2025
Cross, Janet, RFS, April 20, 2025
Donovan, Matthew, ’96, April 23, 2025
Dooley, Rose (Carmen) ‘76, April 13, 2025
Faust, Charles III ‘64, March 22, 2025
Hinds, Carol (Johnson) ‘56, April 16, 2025
Hubbard, Gina (Deweese) ‘88, March 26, 2025
Hurley, Charles ‘61, March 25, 2025
Johnston, Robert ‘59, March 27, 2025
Lloyd, Gloria (Thomas) ‘53, March 24, 2025
McQuaid, Jim Jr., FE, April 9, 2025
Redenbaugh, Richard ‘62, March 23, 2025
Salomon, Ryan ‘01, March 26, 2025
Sampson, Candie (Reisner) ’71, April 29, 2025
Sneed, Larry ‘76, March 20, 2025
Spradling, Robert ‘56, March 27, 2025
*FE indicates a long-time former employee of BJU.
*RFS indicates a Retired Faculty or Staff of BJU.
Class Notes
Dr. Andrew Garland ‘05 & ‘08 was appointed Director of Assessment and Curriculum Development at Bob Jones University, starting May 12.
James Greenwood ‘98 & ‘02 earned his Doctor of Intercultural Studies degree from Faith International University in Tacoma, Washington.
Deborah (Karasek) Hutcheon ‘06 was confirmed to the South Carolina Dietetics Licensure Panel on April 30, 2025.
Scott ‘84 and Debbie (Hayward) Randolph ‘84 have completed five years as pastor and wife at Mt. Carmel Baptist Church, Covington, Indiana, after retirement from Camp Assurance in 2022.
Crystal Williamson-Moxey ‘20 was chosen as Duval County’s Teacher of the Year 2024—2025 for Hyde Park Elementary School, Jacksonville Florida.
Tim Wagner ‘13 was inducted into Michigan Technological University’s Academy of Teaching Excellence.
