Central Baptist College Hosts 5th Annual Scholarship Gala

By Jessica Faulkner, Director of Public Relations

Central Baptist College hosted its fifth annual Scholarship Gala on March 1. The black-tie optional event featured Dr. Jack Graham as the keynote speaker and was held at Antioch Baptist Church in Conway.

At the event, CBC President Terry Kimbrow announced that $718,010 had been raised through event sponsorships and private donations and that all proceeds would benefit student scholarships.

The theme of the event was “Enduring Faith,” and the program focused on the mission and ministry of Central Baptist College, 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.

Kirk Shelton, chairman of the CBC Board of Trustees and lead pastor of Calvary Baptist Church in Fayetteville, offered the opening prayer. CBC Dining Services, under the direction of Chef Billie Rodriguez, served a delicious meal.

Dr. Graham shared his testimony of growing up in Conway and beginning his walk with Christ at an early age. He also shared some of the tragedies he has experienced throughout life. He emphasized the spiritual war that is happening in the life of every Christian and encouraged the audience to fight back by overcoming evil with good. “Because Jesus is alive, nothing else matters,” he said.

The Central Baptist College Fine Arts Department provided the entertainment. The CBC Choir, under the direction of Jim Turner, sang Nothin’ Gonna Stumble My Feet, by Greg Gilpinand Wayfaring Stranger, by Craig Courtney, featuring Jacob Claunch on the cello. The CBC Band, under the direction of Donna Bradley, performed Celebration by Randall Standridge and Music of the Spheres by Gary P. Gilroy.

In his announcement of the $718,010 total that had been raised through this event, President Kimbrow acknowledged 59 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, local 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 “2024 Scholarship Gala” on the memo line of the check.