BLUE MOUNTAIN, MS – July 24, 2026 -- Blue Mountain Christian University (BMCU) proudly recognizes Dr. Michael J. Megelsh , Assistant Professor of History in the Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, for his outstanding scholarly accomplishments, commitment to Christian higher education, and dedication to developing students both academically and spiritually. Recently named BMCU Faculty Member of the Year , Dr. Megelsh has distinguished himself through excellence in teaching, research, mentorship, and service. He was also honored as a William Winter Scholar , an award recognizing academic achievement and leadership. He earned his Ph.D. from Auburn University and has previously taught at Georgia Southern University and Auburn University. As a historian specializing in nineteenth-century American history, the Civil War, and Reconstruction, Dr. Megelsh has maintained an ambitious research agenda while remaining deeply committed to the mission of Christian education. His approach to teaching encourages students to view history not simply as a collection of dates and events, but as a means of understanding human nature, moral responsibility, leadership, and God's providential work throughout history. "Christian education challenges students to pursue truth with both intellectual rigor and moral conviction," said Dr. Megelsh. "History provides a unique opportunity to examine the consequences of ideas, the importance of character, and the responsibilities that accompany citizenship and leadership." Dr. Megelsh's scholarship continues to earn national recognition. In 2025, he published an article in the New England Journal of History , and an additional article is scheduled for publication in the Tennessee Historical Quarterly next year. He also has two forthcoming scholarly articles focused on nineteenth-century American history. Beyond journal publications, Dr. Megelsh served as a contributing author to the six-volume scholarly series US Army Generals' Reports of Civil War Service, 1864–1887 , a major reference work that advances understanding of military leadership during one of the nation's most defining periods. His publishing success extends to book-length scholarship as well. Dr. Megelsh is the author of Adelbert Ames, the Civil War, and the Creation of Modern America , a widely praised study examining the life and legacy of an influential Civil War officer, Reconstruction leader, and civil rights advocate. The work reflects Dr. Megelsh's commitment to exploring complex historical questions while helping readers better understand the American experience. Building on that success, LSU Press has approved his second book manuscript, tentatively titled Mayhem: Massacres During the Civil War Era , scheduled for release in Fall 2027. The forthcoming book will examine episodes of violence during the Civil War era and their lasting impact on American society. While these scholarly achievements have elevated his national profile, colleagues and students note that his greatest impact is found in the classroom. At BMCU, Dr. Megelsh integrates rigorous historical scholarship with the university's Christian mission, encouraging students to think critically, communicate effectively, and engage the world from a biblical worldview. His work exemplifies the unique value of Christian higher education: preparing graduates who are not only knowledgeable in their fields but also equipped to serve their communities with wisdom, integrity, and faith. "Dr. Megelsh demonstrates how serious scholarship and Christian commitment complement one another," said a university representative. "His teaching challenges students to pursue academic excellence while grounding their lives in principles that will guide them long after graduation." Through his research, writing, and mentorship, Dr. Megelsh continues to bring distinction to Blue Mountain Christian University while inspiring students to develop a lifelong love of learning, a commitment to truth, and a desire to use their education in service to others. Blue Mountain Christian University is an institution of higher learning that assists students in developing intellectual integrity, academic excellence, civility, and character.

Blue Mountain, MS — June 23, 2026 Blue Mountain Christian University (BMCU) is proud to announce that John Mayer, Assistant Professor and Program Manager of Criminal Justice, has been named the 2026 Humanities Teacher Award Recipient, recognizing his exceptional commitment to academic excellence, student mentorship, and the integration of faith and learning. Professor Mayer brings a wealth of real-world experience into the classroom as a retired FBI Supervisory Special Agent, a distinction that enhances the depth and credibility of his instruction. Throughout his distinguished career in federal law enforcement, Mayer developed expertise in criminal behavior, investigative strategy, and leadership under pressure. Today, he channels that experience into shaping the next generation of criminal justice professionals at BMCU. “Professor Mayer exemplifies the qualities this award represents,” said a university representative. “His ability to connect theory with practice, combined with his steadfast commitment to Christian values, creates a transformative learning environment for our students.” In his teaching, Mayer emphasizes not only the technical dimensions of criminal justice but also the importance of understanding human personality, motivation, and moral decision-making. His approach reflects the belief that effective justice professionals must grasp both behavioral science and ethical responsibility. By integrating Christian education principles with the study of personality and human behavior, Mayer challenges students to think deeply about the root causes of crime, the dignity of individuals, and the need for compassion alongside accountability. He encourages students to see criminal justice not simply as a profession, but as a calling—one that requires integrity, discernment, and a commitment to truth. “Understanding personality is central to criminal justice,” Mayer has emphasized in his coursework. “But at BMCU, we take it a step further—grounding that understanding in a Christian worldview that values redemption, responsibility, and the inherent worth of every individual.” Under Mayer’s leadership, BMCU’s Criminal Justice program offers students five specialization tracks—law enforcement, cybersecurity, forensic science, legal studies, and forensic psychology—ensuring both academic depth and career readiness. A hallmark of Mayer’s teaching is the success of his students, many of whom have already begun making meaningful contributions in their fields. Graduates have secured roles in local and state law enforcement agencies, pursued advanced degrees in forensic science and psychology, and entered professional fields such as cybersecurity analysis. One graduate credited the program’s hands-on training and faith-integrated perspective for preparing them to navigate the ethical complexities of digital investigations. Another, now pursuing law school, highlighted Mayer’s emphasis on personality and moral reasoning as key to understanding both criminal behavior and the justice system. Students consistently praise Mayer for his engaging teaching style, accessibility, and personal investment in their success. His ability to blend rigorous academics with practical insight fosters confidence and purpose, preparing graduates to lead with both competence and Christian character. Blue Mountain Christian University is committed to providing a Christ-centered education that prepares students for service, leadership, and lifelong learning. The university’s mission is to assist students in developing intellectual integrity, academic excellence, social awareness, and Christian character so they may lead meaningful lives in service to God and humanity.

At Blue Mountain Christian University, we are deeply committed to academic excellence and student success. Each semester, we proudly recognize the outstanding achievements of our top-performing students by naming them to the President’s List and Dean’s List. These prestigious distinctions celebrate the hard work, dedication, and intellectual curiosity of our scholar community.  Dean’s List Robert Brayden Allen Tanner Luke Allen Shriraam Anbanantan Adina Adanna Ataullah Damil Ahmed Ataullah Joleen Hussam Awwad Wyatt Loyd Baggett Neely Nicole Barrier Caleb Wesley Bass Craig Mitchell Blevins Lelan RaShard Boulden Sawyer Dalton Brady Erick Braga Ferreira Goncalves Aubrey Grace Britt Cross Alexander Burgess Jenna Lynne Cale Josephine Marie Campbell Isabella Leilani Carlson Gracie Ann Cavin Madison Elise Chism Zachary Scott Cooper Rebekah Grace Corbin Kaylie Ann Cox Rebecca Lane Crawford Dylan Reed Davenport Nathaniel Evan Davis Taylor Lewis Denson Victoria Eliza Nicole Durost Lukas Grant Dykes Braxton Riley Enzor Lila Nekia Gandy Bert Coleman Gerhart IV Bethany Grace Gordon William Christopher Greer Alex Blanchard Guidry Jackson Edward Hale Jesse Dale Hancock Gabriella Sydney Ann Harris Joseph Cutter Henry Jacob Stephen Hinton Ethan Scott Hirons Brooklyn Paige Hodum Kenneth Brayden Hodum Anna Marie Hopper Shameer Girish Jayram Savannah S. Jefferson Mason Allen Johnson Corina Olivia Jones Jayla Constance Faye Jones Kevin Kotze Maj Langerholz Anna Katherine Langford Langley Brianna Rose William Anthony Leach Katie Mackenzie Lewis Rosamaria Lopez Christian Maness Valeria Manquillo Sanchez Samuel Davi Marques Magalhaes Cavalcante Memory Grace Mauney Addison Paige Mayo Alexus Danyelle McKee Arthur Fernandes Menezes Juliana Joy Miller Brenden Lee Mitchell Camila Fabiola Mordiz Perez Jarrett Andrew Morris Natalie Grace Morrison Jessica Ann Moss Laurence Mikel Myers Daniel Carloni Miranda Nunes Meredith Elise Ohler Whemblem Thiego Oliveira Goncalves Hailey Ann Oliver Luis Felipe Parra Cespedes Lillie JoHannah Pate Alexandria Alene Pharis Eugenia Ramos A'nyia Shamauri Nicole Randle Sadie Sheree Randolph Olivia Kristine Reynolds Haley Turney Richardson-Nebo Sara Jaimes Robinson Veronica Michelle Rodasta Wesley Trace Roy Hannah Brooke Russell BreannaMichelle Schaum Ethan Michael Scott Kyleigh Lane Scott Marylace Elizabeth Scruggs Dakota Grace Simpson Kelly Dianne Smith Samantha Anne Smith William Anderson Spencer Kinsley Dawn Sprouse Ayla Morgan Stowe Kaniya Iyana Imari Tate Lena Olivia Taylor Melody Rebekah Thornhill Brennon Jehu Jeffrey Thorpe Caleigh Grace Turpin Abigail ElizabethVaughn BakerAllen Walker Shariah LaToya Walker Bailey Ann Webb Kaydon DaNicholas White Roman Abie Whitfield Brianna Faith Wilder Esrael Amari Yant William Zane Young President’s List Clayton Edward Adams Yalin Alici Tiffany Jade Ashcraft Abigail Dakota Austin Landon Cole Azlin Ashlyn Renee Balash Brianna Denise Barksdale Clayton Eric Barnett Jonah Michael Barnhardt David Roger Bascomb Kameron Alexander Beavers Emma Leigh Bell Jeremiah Lincoln Bell Tallie Grace Bird Jalynn Olivia Black Madison Nikole Boatwright Blakely Chandler Bogan Krisslyn Ryan Boyles Reanna Gail Brown Mackenzie Dasharell Brownlee Jacob Riley Bryant Caden Lee Burcham Andrew Reed Buse Jesus Calvo Millan Shelby Diane Childress Amanda Brooke Cobb Eliana Grace Cook Neely Grace Cooper Loren Kathleen Cross Taylor Elizabeth Crouch Morgan Lynn Dabbs Savana Grace Deaton Olivia Grace Decanter David Lester DeVaughn Kathryn Olivia Echols Olivia Lakinya Faith Edgeston Adriaan Engelbrecht Dawson James Fish Emily Grace Foust Kameron Renea Frazier Aisha Nicole Garcia Madison Chloe Garrett Jasmine Rose Gassaway Marissa Dawn Gerleman Jennifer Lynn Gutzler Kinley Joe Hallmark Anna Elizabeth Harrison Autumn Grace Harting Isaac Carson Harting Jack Richardson Hearn Sarah Faith Heavener Rani Nowell Higgins Bethany Kathleen Hitt Johnathon Gene Hitt Terry Dwayne Hooper Claire Kathileen Hopper Samuel Tyler Hopper Annalyn Victoria Housley Caroline Clark Howard Billie Amber Marie Hudson Chelsey Leeann Hudson Joshua Wade Hudspeth Caleb Jonathan Hughes Ellie Kathryn Hunt Ruth Kristine Hutchinson Mabry Elise Jackson Carlin Robert Johnson Peyton Louise Kidd Madison Blaire Kirk Christina Eaton Kirkman Luis Lainer Leonardo Ivan Lucas Delgado Luan Felipe Macedo Nascimento Maryn Firth Macri Lily Rachel Martindale Julia Lauren McCoy Isaac Nathaniel McMinn Jayla Ann Meeks Jonah Kole Merritt Hayley Morgan Messer William Braxton Miller Jorja Kate Mooneyhan Caden Zayne Moore Jeremy Neil Moreland Shane Clayton Murphree Lindsey Kay Murr Ngoc Bao Tram Nguyen Lauren Avery Paul Katherine Nicole Pettiette Caleb Bradley Pettigo Jerri Michelle Purdon Dawson Ray Razer Jacob Matthew Roberts Creshenda Leshon Robertson Garcia Lucia Rodriguez Cadence McKinley Rolison Vaye Leigh Savage Kayla Elizabeth Shaull Ella Marie Shepherd Ashtyn Jade Caroline Smith Lily-Ann Christy Smith Myriah Faith Street Zachary Scott Taylor Aspen Jule Teague Timothy Clayton Thurmond Carson Smith Tidwell Joseph Todd Treadaway Eden Elizabeth Wagnon Chandler Davis Wall Rebecca Olivia Walter Benjamin Eugene Webb William Jeffrey West Abigail Grace Williams Brittney Elizabeth Wilson Kora Michelle Wilson Brenda Karen Wisher Deborah Gail Wisher Angel Nicole Wright Jadyn Brianna Yarbro Sophie Catherine Young

Blue Mountain, Mississippi — June 12, 2026 — Blue Mountain Christian University (BMCU) is pleased to announce that Dr. Ashley Coleman, Dean of the School of Education, has been officially approved to serve as a reviewer for the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). This prestigious appointment recognizes Dr. Coleman’s expertise, leadership, and commitment to excellence in educator preparation. Dr. Coleman has been a vital leader within BMCU, guiding the School of Education with a focus on academic rigor, innovation, and a strong commitment to preparing highly qualified educators. With extensive experience in teacher education, curriculum development, and accreditation processes, she has played a key role in strengthening BMCU’s reputation for producing effective, service-oriented teachers. CAEP is a nationally recognized accrediting body that ensures quality and continuous improvement in educator preparation programs. As a CAEP reviewer, Dr. Coleman will work with teams of education professionals to evaluate colleges and universities across the country, ensuring they meet rigorous standards designed to advance excellence in the teaching profession. CAEP accreditation is widely regarded as a mark of distinction, signaling that an institution’s educator preparation programs meet high standards of effectiveness and accountability. “Being selected as a CAEP reviewer is both an honor and a responsibility,” said Dr. Ashley Coleman. “I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the improvement of educator preparation nationwide. This role allows me to collaborate with colleagues across institutions, share best practices, and support the continuous advancement of teacher education programs. It is a privilege to represent Blue Mountain Christian University in this important work.” University leadership also expressed pride in Dr. Coleman’s accomplishment and the recognition it brings to the institution. “Dr. Coleman’s selection as a CAEP reviewer reflects her exceptional leadership and dedication to excellence in education,” said the President of Blue Mountain Christian University. “Her work exemplifies the values we hold as a university—integrity, service, and a commitment to preparing educators who make a meaningful difference in their communities. We are proud of her achievement and confident she will serve with distinction.” Dr. Coleman’s appointment further strengthens BMCU’s engagement with national standards in educator preparation and highlights the University’s ongoing commitment to academic quality and accountability. Her participation in CAEP review teams will also provide valuable insights that will continue to enhance BMCU’s own programs and ensure they remain aligned with best practices in the field. Blue Mountain Christian University prepares students for meaningful careers, lifelong learning, and service through a Christ-centered education that integrates faith, scholarship, and leadership.

Blue Mountain, MS — June 10, 2026 — Blue Mountain Christian University (BMCU) is pleased to announce the establishment of the Benson Family Scholarship , a new endowed scholarship created by Carla Freeman Benson, a proud BMCU graduate and longtime, former employee of the University. Mrs. Benson faithfully served Blue Mountain Christian University for many years as Executive Administrative Assistant to the president, where her dedication, professionalism, and warm spirit left a lasting impact on campus leadership, faculty, and generations of students. Her commitment to the mission of BMCU continues through this meaningful act of generosity. The Benson Family Scholarship has been established in loving memory of her husband, Robert W. Benson, and her son, Thomas Milton Benson, and in honor of her son, Robert W. “Skip” Benson, and her daughter, Teresa Benson Cooper. Through this scholarship, Mrs. Benson pays tribute to the importance of family, legacy, and faith-centered education. This endowed scholarship will be awarded to students from Tippah County, Mississippi, who are attending Blue Mountain Christian University. By specifically supporting students from her home region, Mrs. Benson ensures that local students have greater access to a Christ-centered higher education that can transform their lives and communities. The creation of the Benson Family Scholarship reflects the heart of BMCU’s mission: to prepare students academically, socially, and spiritually for lives of service and leadership in a Christian environment. By investing in students, Mrs. Benson’s gift goes beyond financial assistance—it becomes a ministry. Scripture calls believers to encourage and invest in one another (1 Thessalonians 5:11), and this scholarship embodies that calling by removing barriers and opening doors for students to pursue God’s purpose for their lives. Students who benefit from this scholarship will not only receive a quality education but will also be nurtured in their faith, challenged to grow in Christ, and equipped to impact the world for His glory. In this way, the Benson Family Scholarship serves as a powerful testimony of how generosity can extend the Kingdom of God through education. Gifts to support the scholarship may be made online at bmc.edu/giving or by mailing a check payable to Blue Mountain Christian University to P.O. Box 160, Blue Mountain, MS 38610. Please include the scholarship name in the memo line to ensure proper designation. As an endowed fund, contributions will be invested to provide ongoing, sustainable support for students, ensuring that the impact of this scholarship continues in perpetuity.

New Albany, MS — June 3, 2026 — First Baptist Church of New Albany and Blue Mountain Baptist Church (formerly Lowrey Memorial Baptist Church), are pleased to announce the establishment of the Tom and Jane Sumrall Ministry and Missions Scholarship, an endowed fund created to honor the life, ministry, and mission impact of Bro. Tom Sumrall and his wife, Jane. This scholarship recognizes Bro. Sumrall’s distinguished and faithful pastoral leadership, including his service to both First Baptist Church of New Albany and Blue Mountain Baptist Church. Throughout his career, Bro. Sumrall demonstrated a deep commitment to shepherding congregations and advancing the Gospel through missionary service, leaving a lasting spiritual legacy in Mississippi and the world. Bro. Tom Sumrall devoted his life to pastoral ministry, faithfully serving congregations with a strong commitment to biblical teaching, discipleship, and community outreach. During his tenure at both First Baptist Church of New Albany and Blue Mountain Baptist Church, he was known for his compassionate leadership, steady guidance, and passion for nurturing spiritual growth. Alongside him, Jane Sumrall served as a devoted partner in ministry, supporting church life, missions, and the personal care of families within the congregations. Together, they exemplified a life of service marked by humility, generosity, and a shared calling to advance the Gospel. The endowed scholarship will provide financial assistance in preparing ministerial students, with a special emphasis on those called to pastoral leadership and missions work. By investing in future ministers and missionaries, the scholarship aims to extend the Sumralls’ passion for service and faith into generations to come. “Bro. Sumrall faithfully served our congregations with wisdom, humility, and a heart for missions,” said a representative of First Baptist Church of New Albany. “This scholarship is both a tribute to his legacy and a strategic investment in the next generation of leaders who will carry the message of Christ around the world.” Blue Mountain Baptist Church leaders added, “The Sumralls modeled a life of service and devotion. Establishing this scholarship ensures their example continues to inspire and equip those who feel called to ministry.” Community members, church members, and friends are invited to support the Tom and Jane Sumrall Ministry and Missions Scholarship through financial contributions. Gifts of any size will help grow the endowment and expand opportunities for students pursuing ministry. Gifts to support the scholarship may be made online at bmc.edu/giving or by mailing a check payable to Blue Mountain Christian University to P.O. Box 160, Blue Mountain, MS 38610. Please include the scholarship name in the memo line to ensure proper designation. As an endowed fund, contributions will be invested to provide ongoing, sustainable support for students, ensuring that the impact of this scholarship continues in perpetuity.

Blue Mountain, Miss. - Every semester Blue Mountain Christian University Speech and Theatre program produces quality main stage productions ( https://www.bmc.edu/speech-theatre-productions ), and this spring is no exception as they present Words by Fanny Crosby by Dan Neidermyer with anopening matinee on March 25 at 2 pm, and evening productions on March 26 & 27 at 7 pm in Garrett Auditorium. Produced by special arrangement with Eldridge Publishing Co., this production features a large cast of BMCU students and community members as they recreate the life of Fanny Crosby who was blinded as a baby and went onto to write the words to more than 8,000 hymns including the beloved “Blessed Assurance” and “Praise Him! Praise Him!” Set in New York from 1825-1875, Fanny’s story unfolds in a series of flashbacks as she answers questions from a brusque New York Times Magazine reporter. From her humble beginnings to her education at the New York Institution for the Blind, to reading her poems to United States senators and presidents, various highlights of her life are depicted where her faith brought light and hope to all she encountered, especially those in dark places including the New York State Prison, and the slums of Bowery. Several of her well-known hymns are sung throughout the production. “She felt her lifetime of blindness brought her closer to the heart of God,” Assistant Professor of Speech & Theatre Christi Mitchell said. “Fanny Crosby’s story is very encouraging, and our talented cast has brought her story to life with integrity and honor. I am immensely proud of them.” BMCU students include Jalynn Black (Fanny Crosby), Alivia White (Teen Fanny Crosby), Giana Curasi (Reporter), Nathan Hill (Alexander Van Alstyne), Thomas Floyd (William H. Doane, Irishman in Bowery), Lily-Ann Smith (Eunice), Johnathan Hitt (Dr. Russ, Prison Guard, Man in Bowery), Tallie Bird (Bowery Derelict), Savannah Dunn (Prisoner, Woman in the Bowery), Kaylie Cox (Prisoner, Woman in the Bowery), Abigail Vaughn (Prisoner, Woman in the Bowery), Emma Bell (Prisoner, Woman in the Bowery), Melody Thornhill (Prisoner, Woman in the Bowery), Allie Pharis (Prisoner, Woman in the Bowery), Jayla Jones (Prisoner, Woman in the Bowery), and community members featured include Grayson Hitt (Man in the Bowery), Tonya James (Prisoner, Woman in the Bowery), Ana Hamilton (Prisoner, Woman in the Bowery), Rylee Hitt (Prisoner, Woman in the Bowery), Ruthie McMillen (Ann and child in the Bowery), Gabriel Hamilton (Percy and child in the Bowery), Vivian Mitchell (Penelope and child in the Bowery), and Reagan Hitt (Young Fanny and child in the Bowery). Admission is $10, and cash or checks are accepted at the door. All BMCU faculty, staff, and students can attend for free with ID. While reservations are not required, inquiries can be sent to cmitchell@bmc.edu.

Blue Mountain, Miss. — Blue Mountain Christian University announces the students named to the President’s List and Dean’s List for the Fall 2025 semester. The President’s List recognizes undergraduate students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement. To qualify, students must be enrolled full time and earn a perfect 4.0 grade point average for the semester. The Dean’s List honors full-time undergraduate students who achieve a grade point average of 3.6 or higher for the semester. The University is proud to recognize these students for their outstanding academic accomplishments during the Fall 2025 semester. President’s List Kaylee Jade Aaron Robert Brayden Allen Tanner Luke Allen Abigail Dakota Austin Landon Cole Azlin Ashlyn Renee Balash Neely Nicole Barrier Emma Leigh Bell Blakely Chandler Bogan Krisslyn Ryan Boyles Jacob Riley Bryant Cross Alexander Burgess Alexandria Alene Burnham Andrew Reed Buse Jesus Calvo Millan Angel Gustavo Camarena-Silva Kelsey Paige Camp Isabella Leilani Carlson Gracie Ann Cavin Amanda Brooke Cobb Eliana Grace Cook Rebekah Grace Corbin Rebecca Lane Crawford Loren Kathleen Cross Nathaniel Evan Davis Olivia Grace Decanter David Lester DeVaughn Evelyn Morgan Dupree Adriaan Engelbrecht Braxton Riley Enzor Annelise Kristyn Fish Kohlton River Ford Madison Chloe Garrett Abigail Grace Gattis Daniel Gomez Fernandez Caleb Andrew Hall Jesse Dale Hancock Carter O'Neill Harris Anna Elizabeth Harrison Autumn Grace Harting Isaac Carson Harting Jack Richardson Hearn Jacob Stephen Hinton Thomas William Hiscoke Bethany Kathleen Hitt Anna Marie Hopper Claire Kathileen Hopper Annalyn Victoria Housley Viviann Rose Housley Caroline Clark Howard Joshua Wade Hudspeth Caleb Jonathan Hughes Ruth Kristine Hutchinson Mabry Elise Jackson Ethan Earl Keith Peyton Louise Kidd Madison Blaire Kirk Christina Eaton Kirkman Sha'Merial De'Asia Lacey Luis Lainer Maryn Firth Macri Lily Rachel Martindale Julia Lauren McCoy Jesse Lee Mellinger Brenden Lee Mitchell Jacob McKinlee Mobley Emma Grace Montgomery Jorja Kate Mooneyhan Jarrett Andrew Morris Shane Clayton Murphree Lindsey Kay Murr Hailey Ann Oliver Jacob Carson Prater Dawson Ray Razer Cobey Aaron Riddle Jacob Matthew Roberts Bailey Marye Rodgers Lucia Rodriguez Garcia Wesley Trace Roy Petrone Rudolph Vaye Leigh Savage Ella Marie Shepherd Kelly Dianne Smith Lily-Ann Christy Smith Aspen Jule Teague Timothy Clayton Thurmond Joseph Todd Treadaway Abigail Elizabeth Vaughn Latricia Nicole Vernon Bailey Ann Webb Benjamin Eugene Webb William Jeffrey West Brianna Faith Wilder Abigail Grace Williams Esrael Amari Yant Sophie Catherine Young Dean’s List Clayton Edward Adams Daniel Julian Petteri Aikas Yalin Alici Davis Altrofs Joleen Hussam Awwad Andrew Ayala Brayden Carter Ayers Trenton Cole Baggett Macy Celeste Bain Brianna Denise Barksdale Jonah Michael Barnhardt David Roger Bascomb Jeremiah Lincoln Bell Tallie Grace Bird Benjamin Scott Blassingame Madison Nikole Boatwright Cody Martin Bost Erick Braga Ferreira Goncalves Aubrey Grace Britt Kaitlyn Grace Cain Jenna Lynne Cale Josephine Marie Campbell Neely Grace Cooper Zachary Scott Cooper Hannah Rose Cox Jaelyn Alexis Cox Kaylie Ann Cox Taylor Elizabeth Crouch Morgan Lynn Dabbs Dylan Reed Davenport Hunter Bricen Dees Taylor Lewis Denson Victoria Eliza Nicole Durost Kathryn Olivia Echols Lexie Alyson Faulkner Dawson James Fish Gavin McKinley Foley Jimmy J'Rome Foster Kameron Renea Frazier Lila Nekia Gandy Marissa Dawn Gerleman Amy Nicole Goldsmith Bethany Grace Gordon Judson Lance Griffin Alex Blanchard Guidry Jennifer Lynn Gutzler Kinley Joe Hallmark Ethan Scott Hirons Johnathon Gene Hitt Kenneth Brayden Hodum Terry Dwayne Hooper Benjamin Oliver Hopper Samuel Tyler Hopper Billie Amber Marie Hudson Chelsey Leeann Hudson Carlin Robert Johnson Corina Olivia Jones Jayla Constance Faye Jones Joshua Andrew Jones Jackson Brady Jordan Acen Cody Lambert Peyton Matthew Lathrop Addison Claire Lucius Luan Felipe Macedo Nascimento Christian Maness Callie Christian McDonald Isaac Nathaniel McMinn Jacob Smith Meilstrup Arthur Fernandes Menezes Hayley Morgan Messer Juliana Joy Miller Timothy Gauge Montgomery Abigail Leigh Moore Caden Zayne Moore Jessica Ann Moss Michael Andrew Newman Whemblem Thiego Oliveira Goncalves Lauren Avery Paul Yaidel Perez Katherine Nicole Pettiette Caleb Bradley Pettigo Martin Sebastian Puetate Garcia Breanna Leigh Ramsey Sadie Sheree Randolph Sawyer Henson Richey Veronica Michelle Rodasta Caleb Ross Rogers Hannah Brooke Russell Kyleigh Lane Scott Kayla Elizabeth Shaull Chloe Abagayle Shelton Ashtyn Jade Caroline Smith William Anderson Spencer Ayla Morgan Stowe Zachary Scott Taylor Reise Manning Thomas Melody Rebekah Thornhill Jeanelle Lee Valdez Baker Allen Walker Rebecca Olivia Walter Roman Abie Whitfield Chryshawn Keneil Wiggan Elsie Jewel Wilbanks Dalton Cole Williams Kaedyn Addison Wilson Kora Michelle Wilson Brenda Karen Wisher Deborah Gail Wisher Angel Nicole Wright Jadyn Brianna Yarbro 

BLUE MOUNTAIN, Miss. – Blue Mountain Christian University has been recognized by the Mississippi Department of Education (MDE) as a Mississippi Emerging Science of Reading Educator Preparation Program for the 2025-26 academic year. BMCU is one of only four universities in Mississippi to receive this distinction. The designation honors educator preparation programs that demonstrate strong alignment with the science of reading and show evidence of preparing teacher candidates to deliver structured, research-based literacy instruction. The recognition ceremony took place Dec. 8, 2025, in the Modena Lowrey Berry Auditorium on the BMCU campus. Representatives from MDE’s literacy leadership team joined faculty, students and partners to celebrate the accomplishment and present the official banner recognizing BMCU as an Emerging Science of Reading Educator Preparation Program. During the presentation, Amanda Malone, state literacy director for the Mississippi Department of Education, affirmed the strength of BMCU’s preparation program . “This program is designed to move candidates from understanding the ‘why’—the research behind how we know children learn to read—to doing the ‘how,’ which is delivering effective reading instruction. This grounding in explicit, evidence-based practice prepares graduates to walk into classrooms ready to teach reading well on day one. Because of BMCU’s commitment to training teachers and equipping them with the very best knowledge to be literacy leaders, your students are well equipped for success.”  Dr. Ashley Coleman, dean of the School of Education, expressed gratitude for the recognition. “Being named an Emerging Science of Reading Educator Preparation Program reflects the heart of our mission at BMCU. We are committed to preparing future teachers with strong, research-driven practices so they can make an immediate impact in Mississippi classrooms. This recognition affirms the faithful work of our faculty and the dedication of our candidates.” This acknowledgment highlights BMCU’s continued commitment to preparing Christ-centered educators who are equipped to serve and strengthen literacy outcomes in classrooms across the state. For more information, contact Dr. Ashley Coleman at acoleman@bmc.edu .