Kimbrow Honored at Retirement Celebration

Executive Editor’s Note: Next week’s issue will feature an expanded article with more information about what was shared during the celebration of what God has done through President Kimbrow’s time at CBC as well as some photos from the special event.

Central Baptist College (CBC) hosted a retirement event honoring President Terry Kimbrow on May 9, 2025. The emcee for the event was Yalanda Merrell, Director of Audience Engagement at Lifeword. Dr. Virgil Porter, Chair of the Bible Department, offered the opening prayer.

The program began with Jason Kimbrow, Terry’s son, who discussed the Kimbrow family’s journey to Conway and the adjustments they faced over the first 10 years.

Jim Fink, long-standing and current board member, shared stories about how he became acquainted with Terry and explained how Terry became president of the college. Brian Ratliff also spoke about Terry’s first presidential project — the Ratliff Bell Tower. He highlighted the significance of the replication project and how Terry managed to raise the funds for its completion.

Brad Lacy, president and CEO of the Conway Chamber of Commerce, spoke about how Terry helped put CBC on the map. He described Terry as a key player in the community and detailed how he began to shape CBC’s role within the City of Colleges.

Long-time employee Judy Gabbard discussed Terry’s impact on academics at CBC. He added multiple majors and minors to the degree plans during his tenure. He also led in writing the Title III Strengthening Institutions Grant, which was pivotal in funding several of these programs, including the construction of the Judy Gabbard Science Center.

Former Vice President for Advancement Sancy Faulk addressed Terry’s involvement in Vision 2020, which raised over $18 million, marking the most successful capital campaign in the college’s history. She also shared stories of how the college prayerfully planned for its expansion.

Executive Vice President Dr. Jeremy Langley concluded the event by reflecting on Terry’s legacy and the school’s commitment to continuing it. Dr. Langley presented Terry with several gifts, including a caricature by alum Gary Thomas (1980), a gift certificate to Spring Creek Outfitters and the creation of an Endowed Scholarship in his honor.

Dr. Joel Slayton led the closing prayer. During the prayer, several men surrounded Terry to pray over him, including Dr. Joel Slayton, Dr. Virgil Porter, Dr. Tim Brewer, Jim Fink, Brian Ratliff, Cody Hiland, Dr. Jeremy Langley, Nelson Ortiz, Steve Elder, Terry’s sons (Jason and Justin Kimbrow) and his adult grandsons (Kane and Kimbrow Harrell).

Following the program, guests were invited to a fish fry reception in the Childers Dining Hall, catered by Uncle Tim’s. A buffet featuring some of Terry’s favorite desserts was also served, including Italian cream cake cupcakes, mini peanut butter pies and chocolate snowballs.

President Kimbrow’s last day will be May 26. If you would like to send him a card or letter before that date, please address it to Peggy Pillow, Central Baptist College, 1501 College Ave, Conway, Ark. 72034.

Click here for the expanded follow-up article