Fall Board Meeting Update
BJU’s Board of Trustees met on campus earlier this month for its fall meeting. President Bruce McAllister said he left the two days grateful for what was accomplished, noting the conversations were focused, candid, and constructive.
The Board spent most of day one listening to members of the administration present information on a major goal of the ongoing strategic planning process: sustainability. Though the financial report was encouraging, confirming BJU’s financial stability and strong cash position, both the Board and administration recognize that stability is only a starting point. As the University enters its second century, they are united in pursuing long-term sustainability that will enable BJU to serve generations of students to come.
During the final day, the Board welcomed three new members, each bringing a deep commitment to the University’s mission:
- Dr. David Huffstutler (‘06, Bible) returns to the Board after a short time away. He holds a doctorate from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary and serves as senior pastor of First Baptist Church of Troy, Michigan. He is married to Holly (Trammel) Huffstutler, a 2004 nursing graduate.
- Timothy McCarty (‘03, International Business) earned an MBA from the University of North Carolina’s Kenan-Flagler Business School and he is the Chief Financial Officer of Jackson Dawson Communications.
- Ben Edwards (‘06, Bible) holds an M.A. from Northland International University and an M.Div. from Detroit Baptist Theological Seminary. He is senior pastor of Cross Lanes Bible Church in Charleston, West Virginia, and is married to Joanne (Archibald) Edwards, a 2006 pre-physical therapy graduate.
Fall Board Meeting Update
BJU’s Board of Trustees met on campus earlier this month for its fall meeting. President Bruce McAllister said he left the two days grateful for what was accomplished, noting the conversations were focused, candid, and constructive.
The Board spent most of day one listening to members of the administration present information on a major goal of the ongoing strategic planning process: sustainability. Though the financial report was encouraging, confirming BJU’s financial stability and strong cash position, both the Board and administration recognize that stability is only a starting point. As the University enters its second century, they are united in pursuing long-term sustainability that will enable BJU to serve generations of students to come.
During the final day, the Board welcomed three new members, each bringing a deep commitment to the University’s mission:
- Dr. David Huffstutler (‘06, Bible) returns to the Board after a short time away. He holds a doctorate from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary and serves as senior pastor of First Baptist Church of Troy, Michigan. He is married to Holly (Trammel) Huffstutler, a 2004 nursing graduate.
- Timothy McCarty (‘03, International Business) earned an MBA from the University of North Carolina’s Kenan-Flagler Business School and he is the Chief Financial Officer of Jackson Dawson Communications.
- Ben Edwards (‘06, Bible) holds an M.A. from Northland International University and an M.Div. from Detroit Baptist Theological Seminary. He is senior pastor of Cross Lanes Bible Church in Charleston, West Virginia, and is married to Joanne (Archibald) Edwards, a 2006 pre-physical therapy graduate.
Giving Tree Nomination
Through the Giving Tree, the BJU Alumni community has raised the bar year after year in supporting fellow alumni in need. Each year one of our alumni members will be chosen to receive a blessing, but that starts with nominations from you—alumni and friends. Submit your nominations for this year’s Giving Tree and help us be an encouragement to someone in our community.
Giving Tree Nomination
Through the Giving Tree, the BJU Alumni community has raised the bar year after year in supporting fellow alumni in need. Each year one of our alumni members will be chosen to receive a blessing, but that starts with nominations from you—alumni and friends. Submit your nominations for this year’s Giving Tree and help us be an encouragement to someone in our community.
New Scholarship Announced
BJU recently announced a new $9,000 scholarship described as “guaranteed. . . [with] no competition, no essay, no maybe.”
The scholarship is intended for students and families who already share a meaningful connection with the kind of Christ-centered education BJU provides. A student qualifies by meeting at least one of four criteria:
- Being the child of a BJU graduate
- Having at least one parent serving in full-time Christian ministry
- Graduating from a homeschool program
- Graduating from a Christian school
According to Dr. Matthew Weathers, Chief Enrollment Officer at BJU, “We want to be as affordable as possible and be very clear in how we communicate our value as a Christian higher education institution.” He also stated, “If [God] calls you here, He will provide for you to be here, and there are multiple pathways that make a BJU education affordable.”
While BJU will continue to offer both academic merit and need-based aid, this new scholarship provides another opportunity to encourage students who are already interested in BJU to enroll. For more information, click the button below.
New Scholarship Announced
BJU recently announced a new $9,000 scholarship described as “guaranteed. . . [with] no competition, no essay, no maybe.”
The scholarship is intended for students and families who already share a meaningful connection with the kind of Christ-centered education BJU provides. A student qualifies by meeting at least one of four criteria:
- Being the child of a BJU graduate
- Having at least one parent serving in full-time Christian ministry
- Graduating from a homeschool program
- Graduating from a Christian school
According to Dr. Matthew Weathers, Chief Enrollment Officer at BJU, “We want to be as affordable as possible and be very clear in how we communicate our value as a Christian higher education institution.” He also stated, “If [God] calls you here, He will provide for you to be here, and there are multiple pathways that make a BJU education affordable.”
While BJU will continue to offer both academic merit and need-based aid, this new scholarship provides another opportunity to encourage students who are already interested in BJU to enroll. For more information, click the button below.
A Flurry of Activity in October!
This month so far has been an action-packed calendar of centennial celebrations!
October 1
Legacy VIPs were invited to a special brunch prior to the Heritage Day Chapel. Many retired faculty and staff members joined Dr. McAllister and other executives for a special time of acknowledgement and celebration of their service. Our VIPs were presented with a ribbon to commemorate their commitment to the mission of BJU and their sacrificial service and were our special guests at the new Heritage Day program directly following the brunch. Perhaps the most enjoyable part of the morning was watching some of our Legacy VIPs enjoy a quick golf cart ride to the program!
September 30 & October 1
This year, under the direction of Rich Streeter, a new Heritage Day program was created and presented over two days. Many faculty, staff, students, alumni and friends who were able to attend in person were so moved by the program they asked for another showing during Homecoming. While the heavy schedule of the centennial year does not permit an additional live showing, this dynamic program was captured on video. We could try and explain more about the incredible presentation, but why do that when we can just show you!?
Click the button below OR even better, come to Homecoming and hear from the director, Rich Streeter, and key speaker, Dr. Bill Lovegrove, followed by a special screening of the program.
October 9
The front campus area is complete and was officially dedicated during a special ceremony. After hundreds of name submissions from employees and students, the name was chosen and announced: Centennial Square!
Mayor Knox White and other special guests joined the BJU community for the occasion. Mayor White was presented with a banner signed by faculty, staff, students, and board members, thanking the city of Greenville for hosting BJU for 80 of our 100 years.
Symphonic Wind Band Takes BJU on the Road
This fall, 42 members of the Symphonic Wind Band spent October 3-9 on tour, carrying BJU’s music ministry up the East Coast through North Carolina, Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania. Under the direction of Dr. Bruce Cox, the students performed in churches and Christian schools, leading chapels, giving sacred concerts, and teaching alongside local band students.
The tour opened in Raleigh, where the band played for the Sunday morning service at Friendship Baptist Church. That evening, they gave a sacred concert at Bethel Baptist Church in Hampton, Virginia. Over the following days, they visited Bethel Christian School, Fairfax Baptist Temple Academy, Harford Christian School, and West Chester Christian School. At each stop, they performed for assemblies and worked with school bands in sectionals, masterclasses, and “side by side” sessions. Along the way, they connected with many alumni serving as pastors, teachers, and administrators, and some former band members even traveled to hear them play. Seemingly everywhere the band went, host pastors and principals thanked them for coming “all the way to us,” and many added an invitation to come back anytime.
For a century, BJU has had a legacy of giving all students ample opportunity to develop their skill as musicians and artists—to glorify God and to minister to others. As we enter our second century, we are grateful that legacy is still flourishing!
Symphonic Wind Band Takes BJU on the Road
This fall, 42 members of the Symphonic Wind Band spent October 3-9 on tour, carrying BJU’s music ministry up the East Coast through North Carolina, Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania. Under the direction of Dr. Bruce Cox, the students performed in churches and Christian schools, leading chapels, giving sacred concerts, and teaching alongside local band students.
The tour opened in Raleigh, where the band played for the Sunday morning service at Friendship Baptist Church. That evening, they gave a sacred concert at Bethel Baptist Church in Hampton, Virginia. Over the following days, they visited Bethel Christian School, Fairfax Baptist Temple Academy, Harford Christian School, and West Chester Christian School. At each stop, they performed for assemblies and worked with school bands in sectionals, masterclasses, and “side by side” sessions. Along the way, they connected with many alumni serving as pastors, teachers, and administrators, and some former band members even traveled to hear them play. Seemingly everywhere the band went, host pastors and principals thanked them for coming “all the way to us,” and many added an invitation to come back anytime.
For a century, BJU has had a legacy of giving all students ample opportunity to develop their skill as musicians and artists—to glorify God and to minister to others. As we enter our second century, we are grateful that legacy is still flourishing!
Centennial Homecoming
Registration for Homecoming is steadily picking up pace! Friday’s Thanksgiving Praise Service kicks off an exciting weekend and the Alumni Dinner on Friday evening will surely be a can’t-miss event. And don’t forget to get your tickets to Hamlet!
Saturday of Homecoming is full of family friendly activities including the M & G Makers Market and the Centennial Homecoming Fair—an event for all ages that includes the Turkey Cup, the Turkey Bowl, affinity reunions, a tailgating-like atmosphere, and much more!
Bruins Barbeque Bash—a delicious crowd favorite—is back this year in a new location: The Dining Common! After spending all day on the athletic fields enjoying the fellowship, join the campus community in the Kalmbach Room for some pulled pork and delicious sides!
Click the button below for more information about the whole weekend. If you have questions, email Alumni Relations at [email protected].
See you at Homecoming 2026!
Centennial Homecoming
Registration for Homecoming is steadily picking up pace! Friday’s Thanksgiving Praise Service kicks off an exciting weekend and the Alumni Dinner on Friday evening will surely be a can’t-miss event. And don’t forget to get your tickets to Hamlet!
Saturday of Homecoming is full of family friendly activities including the M & G Makers Market and the Centennial Homecoming Fair—an event for all ages that includes the Turkey Cup, the Turkey Bowl, affinity reunions, a tailgating-like atmosphere, and much more!
Bruins Barbeque Bash—a delicious crowd favorite—is back this year in a new location: The Dining Common! After spending all day on the athletic fields enjoying the fellowship, join the campus community in the Kalmbach Room for some pulled pork and delicious sides!
Click the button below for more information about the whole weekend. If you have questions, email Alumni Relations at [email protected].
See you at Homecoming 2026!
Affinity Reunions during Centennial Homecoming
Registration is now open for all our affinity reunions, and we would love to see you back on campus enjoying time catching up with people you spent quality time with as a student or employee. Check the list below and register today!
Thursday, Nov 12 | Dining Common: Who: Dining Common and Snack Shop workers What: dinner with your former coworkers Where: Dining Common When: 5:30 p.m. Cost: $6 |
Thursday, Nov 12 | Student Development and Discipleship: Who: Student life staff (past and present) What: Reception in Rodeheaver Lobby Where: Rodeheaver Auditorium Lobby When: 7-9 p.m. Cost: free |
Friday, Nov 13 | Art + Design Alumni Exhibition Reception & Affinity Reunion Who: A+D graduates, artists, family and friends What: Show Opening and Reception Where: Sargeant Art Building When: 2:30-4:30 p.m. Cost: free |
Saturday, Nov 14 | Affinity Reunions (multiple) Who: – Classic Players-Opera Association: Nathan Pittack – Mission Teams: Ken Casillas, Ted Miller, Mark Vowels – Seminary: Lynette Hynek – Public Safety: Carrie Wright – STEM: Melissa Gardenghi (Engineering, Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Math, Computer Science) – School of Ed & Human Services: Daniel Dillard – International Students: Andrew Knox – SLC/Student Body Council: Matthew Weathers What: Snacks and drinks and a time of fellowship Where: Athletic Fields during the Centennial Fair When: 1-3 p.m. Cost: free |
Saturday, Nov 14 | Show My People: Dr. Bob & Karen Jones Who: former cast and crew of Show My People What: reception Where: Jones Residence When: 1-3 p.m. Cost: free |
Saturday, Nov 14 | English Division Affinity Reunion Who: graduates and friends of the English Division of the College of Arts and Science What: drop-in reception Where: Mack Library (second floor of Mack Building) When: 3-5 p.m. Cost: free |
TURN EXPERIENCE INTO CREDIT
Many adult learners come to BJU SCOPE with years of learning already behind them. Through Credit for Prior Learning, one recent student turned a pilot’s license into six college credits, while others earned credit for military training, professional certifications, and documented work experience. It is one more way SCOPE helps students finish what they started, faster and for less.
If you know of someone whose experience could count toward a degree, pass this along. With the next start date on January 15, a SCOPE Pathway Partner can help them find out what counts toward their next step.
TURN EXPERIENCE INTO CREDIT
Many adult learners come to BJU SCOPE with years of learning already behind them. Through Credit for Prior Learning, one recent student turned a pilot’s license into six college credits, while others earned credit for military training, professional certifications, and documented work experience. It is one more way SCOPE helps students finish what they started, faster and for less.
If you know of someone whose experience could count toward a degree, pass this along. With the next start date on January 15, a SCOPE Pathway Partner can help them find out what counts toward their next step.
Employment Opportunities
BJU Faculty/Staff Positions
BJA Positions
Employment Opportunities
BJU Faculty/Staff Positions
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BJU Faculty/Staff Positions
BJA Positions
Alumni updates
Future Bruins
Davis, Jordan ’20 and Rachel, Rylee Lyn, September 19, 2026
Dickinson, Peter ’16 and Jaimie (Wilson) ‘14, Martin Ward, September 4, 2026
Kirchner, Zachary ’19 and Sarah (Herbster) ’20, Clara Janelle, August 22, 2026
Parker, Matthew ’23 and Damaris (Ziemski) ’23, August Micah, September 25, 2026
Woody, Brandon and Lauren (Charbono) ’16, Gideon Asher, September 7, 2026
Deaths
Baker, Janette Lynn ’09, September 27, 2026
Brock, John Dale ’54, June 26, 2018
Brown, Lila (Burrell) ’58, November 15, 2019
Coyer, Herbert William ’68, July 3, 2026
Galstad, Lydia (Jacobsen) ’54, August 19, 2026
Greeman, Deborah (Cummings) ’80, September 24, 2026
Henderson, David Denis ’75, October 31, 2025
Howard Jr., Larry Erskine ’81, September 29, 2025
McEndollar, Roll Eugene ’73 FE, September 11, 2026
Ramsey, Sylvia (Stikeleather) ’57, September 13, 2026
Rohmann, Herbert Kurt ’61, June 13, 2025
Strader, Margaret/Sharon (Kellison) ’69, September 20, 2026
Wilber, Marilyn (Nutt) ’03, September 16, 2026
Class Notes
Armentrout, Rich ’85 ’03 has been appointed chief financial officer of Sobrius, a Virginia behavioral health provider. Armentrout’s experience overseeing complex behavioral health portfolios, improving operational performance, and supporting clinical teams will help Sobrius expand.
Schiefer Dr., Allyson (Jenkins) ’17 has joined Goshen Physicians OB/GYN. She earned her Doctor of Medicine degree from Indiana University School of Medicine and completed her residency in obstetrics and gynecology at Western Michigan University.
Vowels Dr., Mark ’83, faculty member in the School of Theology & Global Leadership at BJU, completed his PhD in Intercultural Studies from Columbia International University in August of 2026.
