CBC Hosts 2022 Scholarship Gala

Central Baptist College hosted its third annual Scholarship Gala on April 2. The black-tie optional event featured keynote speaker, Alex Kendrick, and was held at the Conway Expo Center.

The proceeds of the event benefit student scholarships, and President Terry Kimbrow announced that $510,100 had been raised through event sponsorships and private donations.

The theme of the event was “Courageous Faith,” and the program focused on the mission and ministry of CBC which is “the integration of Christian faith and academic excellence in a Christ-centered environment.” The emcee for the night was Yalanda Merrell, Director of Audience Engagement at Lifeword.

Following the opening prayer by David Watkins (BMA pastor and CBC Board member), CBC Dining Services, under the direction of Chef Jill McCollum, served a delicious meal. The first course was Steak House Salad with blue cheese, toasted pecans, apples and bacon served with a Bacon Vinaigrette; followed by the second course consisting of a Medallion of Beef, Fresh Mash of Potatoes with Chives, Lemon Butter Glazed Broccolini and Yeast Rolls with Herb Butter. The meal was concluded with a White Chocolate Cheesecake with Mixed Berry Coolie Cream.

The highlight of the evening was Alex Kendrick, who shared his amazing story on the founding of Sherwood Pictures. Kendrick shared many stories of how God has worked in his life as a writer and director. Throughout the night, he encouraged the audience in many ways. “We must fight for the hearts and minds of the next generations to love the Lord, to know the Lord and to make truth the foundation of education, which comes from God’s Word.” In his closing comments, he reminded us to live the life of Jer. 29:13: “You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart.”

After the keynote speaker, the CBC Fine Arts department provided the entertainment. The CBC Band was led by Dr. Danielle Hodges. The band performed “Havana Nights” featuring soloists Jarett Maxwell, Jeremiah Dodson and Emily Owen and“Such Small Things,” featuring soloist Abigail Weihe. The CBC Choir, under the direction of Jim Turner, sang “Daniel, Servant of the Lord,” featuring soloists Caleb Allen and A.J. Woodraska. The piano used in the performance was provided by Steinway Piano Gallery of Little Rock.

After his closing comments, President Kimbrow asked the choir to sing one more song — “Courageous Faith.” Words were written by Christine Harris, wife of the late David Harris, a CBC alumnus, and Assistant Professor of Music Jim Turner composed the music.

In his announcement of the total that had been raised through this event for student scholarships, President Kimbrow acknowledged 65 event sponsors and many additional individuals and businesses who made contributions toward the total. “I am beyond grateful for the generosity of so many,” said President Kimbrow. “The Central Baptist College Board of Trustees, businesses, not only in Conway, but across the state of Arkansas, and other individuals who are such faithful supporters of Central Baptist College all came together to make this an unforgettable night for the support of Christian Higher Education.”

Contributions are still being accepted. To contribute, visit cbc.edu/gala and complete the online giving form. Checks may be mailed to Central Baptist College, 1501 College Avenue, Conway, Ark. 72034 with “2022 Scholarship Gala” on the memo line of the check. For more information, contact Director of Alumni and Public Relations Jessica Faulkner at jfaulkner@cbc.edu or (501) 205-8800.