The institution's eighth president will complete her service at the close of the 2026–27 academic year, the university’s 154th Blue Mountain, Miss. (September 29, 2026)— Dr. Barbara C. McMillin, the eighth president of Blue Mountain Christian University (BMCU), has announced that she will retire on June 30, 2027. She will complete her 15th year of service at the conclusion of the 2026-27 academic year. The Board of Trustees will share details regarding the presidential search in the coming months. McMillin came to Blue Mountain Christian University in 2012 from Union University in Jackson, Tennessee, where she last served as Associate Provost. A native of Falkner, Miss., she holds a bachelor’s degree in English from Union University and a Doctor of Arts in English from the University of Mississippi. “I have always considered my tenure at Blue Mountain Christian University as something entrusted to my care for a season,” McMillin said. “Whatever has been accomplished during my years here rests on a foundation that was laid long before I arrived: our Christian mission, a deep commitment to prayer, and a confidence in the faithfulness of God. My hope is that we have strengthened that foundation and made our mission so clear that it will continue to shape Blue Mountain Christian University long after my presidency has ended.” McMillin’s tenure included several of the most significant developments in the institution’s recent history: Strengthening and clearly articulating the university’s identity as an unapologetically Christian institution committed to integrating faith and learning. Leading the institution through its transition from Blue Mountain College to Blue Mountain Christian University, reflecting an expanding academic mission while preserving its historic identity and values. Expanding academic opportunities and developing new programs designed to prepare students for lives of meaningful service and professional leadership, including nursing and kinesiology. Overseeing significant improvements to the physical campus, including major new facilities, renovations, and investments designed to serve future generations of students — among them the Center for Grace and Healing, the university’s new health science facility, set to open in October. Strengthening enrollment, fundraising, partnerships, and institutional relationships while guiding the university through a period of significant change and challenge in higher education. Deepening a campus culture centered on prayer, Christian community, personal investment in students, and confidence in God’s faithfulness. Blue Mountain Christian University also earned national recognition during these years for academic quality and affordability. U.S. News & World Report named the institution the No. 1 Best Value among Regional Colleges in the South in both its 2018 and 2019 editions and ranked it among the top 10 Regional Colleges in the South in three consecutive editions, from 2017 through 2019. “When I think about legacy, I really don’t think first about buildings we have constructed, programs we have added, or milestones we have reached,” McMillin continued. “I think about people. I think about the students who have left this place prepared to see their lives and their work through the lens of a Christian worldview and to serve Christ faithfully in their professions, churches, families, and communities.” The Reverend James Lewis, chair of the Blue Mountain Christian University Board of Trustees, said “Dr. McMillin has led Blue Mountain with conviction and with care, and she has done so during a period that has not been easy for any Christian college. She leaves this institution clearer about who it is, better equipped to teach, and on firmer footing than she found it. The Board is grateful for her faithfulness, and we begin this year confident about what is ahead for Blue Mountain." Blue Mountain Christian University will mark McMillin’s final year with a series of programs and events celebrating the university’s history and the people who have shaped it. Details will be announced throughout the academic year at bmc.edu. About Blue Mountain Christian University Blue Mountain Christian University was founded in 1873 in Blue Mountain, Mississippi, as Blue Mountain Female Institute by Mark Perrin Lowrey, who taught its first 50 students alongside his two eldest daughters. The Lowrey family transferred the institution to the Mississippi Baptist Convention in 1920, and it has been affiliated with the Convention since. Fully coeducational since 2005, the university offers undergraduate and graduate programs grounded in the Christian liberal arts and competes in 18 intercollegiate sports as the Toppers, a member of the NAIA and the Southern States Athletic Conference. Learn more at bmc.edu.

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 – July 24, 2026 -- Blue Mountain Christian University Athletics continues to build a culture of excellence, integrity, and Christian discipleship under the leadership of Athletic Director Curt Fowler , as the Toppers achieved one of the most successful years in department history both on the field and in the classroom. The department's commitment to character and sportsmanship was highlighted when the entire BMCU Athletic Department received the prestigious SSAC School of Character Award , one of the conference's highest honors. Additionally, BMCU Athletics earned the NAIA Champions of Character Five-Star Gold Medal Award for the 26th consecutive year , reflecting the university's longstanding dedication to integrity, respect, responsibility, servant leadership, and sportsmanship. Curt Fowler was selected by the SSAC to serve as the liaison for the conference's athletic directors in the sport of baseball . The appointment reflects the respect he has earned among his peers throughout the conference. Fowler's connection to the sport runs deep at BMCU, as he founded the university's baseball program in 2011 and guided the Toppers to more than 200 victories during his tenure as head coach before transitioning into the role of Athletic Director. Further highlighting BMCU's growing influence within the SSAC, the Assistant Athletic Director, Brett Fowler, was selected to serve on the inaugural SSAC Hall of Fame Committee . While AD Curt Fowler was recognized for his leadership, he was quick to point to the outstanding work of BMCU's coaching staff. BMCU teams and coaches earned numerous conference and national honors during the year. Softball was recognized with the NFCA Region I Coaching Staff of the Year Award , the SSAC Mayor Todd Strange Female Champions of Character Team Award , multiple NFCA All-Region , SSAC First-Team All-Conference , SSAC Second-Team All-Conference , and Gold Glove Team selections, while also securing the program's first-ever NAIA National Championship Opening Round berth . Men's golf earned SSAC Co-Coach of the Year honors and produced BMCU's first-ever NAIA Second-Team All-Americans , while bass fishing finished fifth nationally in the Bass Pro Shops School of the Year standings . Women's basketball garnered the SSAC LeRoy Walker Award , First-Team All-Conference , and Second-Team All-Conference recognition, while men's basketball earned First-Team All-Conference honors. Baseball added multiple SSAC Second-Team All-Conference selections. Cross country and track & field earned SSAC Freshman of the Year , All-Conference , All-Freshman Team , Second-Team All-Conference , and NAIA National Championship qualification honors. Volleyball claimed the SSAC Setter of the Year Award along with numerous First-Team and Second-Team All-Conference selections. Women's tennis earned SSAC Second-Team All-Conference recognition and achieved a No. 25 national ranking , while men's soccer produced an SSAC All-Freshman Team selection. The university's emphasis on academic excellence remained equally strong. BMCU Athletics produced 56 NAIA Scholar-Athletes , 69 SSAC Athletic Solutions All-Academic honorees , and is expected to have 13 NAIA Scholar Teams for the academic year. For Fowler, the achievements of his athletic staff and players are among the most meaningful. "Christian higher education is about developing the whole person," Fowler said. "We celebrate championships and awards, but we are equally proud of our students' academic success, spiritual growth, and commitment to representing Christ with excellence. These accomplishments belong to our coaches, athletic staff, student-athletes, and the entire BMCU community." As Blue Mountain Christian University Athletics continues to grow, Fowler's leadership remains centered on the university's Christian mission—supporting coaches, investing in student-athlete development, and fostering a culture where faith, character, academic achievement, and competitive success work hand in hand.  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 Breanna Leigh Ramsey 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.