HLGU President Dr. Anthony Allen addressed graduates at each ceremony with slightly different messages, but encouraged all of them, saying, “Life is punctuated with events like these today to mark the transition of life and the accomplishments of the past, as well as the importance of looking forward to what the future may hold. So today we celebrate together this monumental accomplishment.”

He continued, “This a great class. Each year I am amazed at their accomplishments, their abilities, and the amazing potential they have.”

Following the address, graduates received their diplomas, and Dr. Larinee Dennis, vice president for academic administration, presented the graduates to Dr. Allen, who conferred their degrees.

“This class has distinguished itself with many notable accomplishments and achievements. It has been a privilege to watch their development,” Dr. Dennis said.

At the two ceremonies on Saturday, Emma Anderson, and Zerubbabel Fitsum, HLGU’s Who’s Who Among Seniors, led their fellow graduates in the graduate pledge and in giving a standing ovation to thank their families and friends for their support.

Also, at commencement, the 2021 Parkway Distinguished Professor Award was presented to Mr. Clay Biggs. This award is given by Parkway Baptist Church in St. Louis, Missouri and the selection of its recipient is based on outstanding professional and personal contributions to Christian education. This is HLGU’s highest faculty award and the 32nd year this award has been presented.

Biggs joined the �������� University faculty in 2002 and currently serves as an assistant professor of exercise and sports science, and chair of the exercise science division. He earned a master of arts and a bachelor of science degree from Truman State University and is planning on starting a doctoral program this summer. Biggs diligently teaches his classes from a Christian worldview, helping students academically, spiritually, and relationally.

The Immanuel Staff Member of the Year Award was also presented at commencement, this year to Mr. Brice Baumgardner. The staff member of the year has been awarded since 2010. This award is meant to honor individuals who contribute to the success and accomplishment of �������� University. The selection process includes nominations by fellow staff members with a vote of affirmation by the administration.

Baumgardner has worked for �������� University for 18 years in the admissions and financial aid offices and is currently the director of the financial aid office. He has been an active member of Missouri Association of State Financial Aid Personnel, serving on committees and in the past as vice president and president. A 2001 HLGU alum, Baumgardner is diligent in advocating what is best for students, even though it will at times require more work on his end.

To watch any of HLGU’s 2021 commencement ceremonies, visit the HLGU Facebook page. For more information on HLGU’s graduation, visit hlg.edu/news-events/commencement/ or contact Julie Andresen at 573-629-3130, or via email at jandresen@hlg.edu.

“Life is punctuated with events like these today to mark the transition of life and the accomplishments of the past as well as looking forward to what the future may hold. So today we celebrate together this monumental accomplishment,” said Dr. Allen. “This a great class. Each year I am amazed at their accomplishments, their abilities, and the amazing potential they have.”

This year’s commencement address was given by John R. (Jay) Ashcroft, Missouri’s 40th Secretary of State. Ashcroft was elected in 2016, and brings a unique perspective to office through his experience as an attorney, engineer, and educator.

Secretary Ashcroft’s address urged the graduates to love God and to love others with a heart that is set apart from the world, in character and obedience to the Lord.

“I want to implore you that this is your time to make a difference. Our world is crying out for men and women of character, honesty, and dependability, who understand absolute truth, understand this life is temporary, the eternal is of preeminent importance, and frankly that life isn’t about what you achieve. It’s about your obedience to God and what you do for others.”

Secretary Ashcroft added, “I want to thank the graduates for a job well done. For persevering. For seeking, not only knowledge, which you can seek in a lot of places, but for understanding that wisdom is more important than knowledge, and you have sought both at an institution like �������� University.”

Following the address, Dr. Larinee Dennis, vice president for academic administration, presented the 2020 graduating class.

“This class has distinguished itself with many notable accomplishments and achievements. It has been a privilege to watch their development,” said Dr. Dennis.

Following the presentation of the graduates, Lilianna Erskine and Tyler Shipley, HLGU’s Who’s Who Among Seniors, led their fellow graduates in the graduate pledge and in giving a standing ovation to thank their family and friends for their support.

Also, at commencement, the 2020 Parkway Distinguished Professor Award was presented to Dr. Steven Voss. This award is given by Parkway Baptist Church in St. Louis, Missouri and the selection of its recipient is based on outstanding professional and personal contributions to Christian education. This is HLGU’s highest faculty award and the 31st year this award has been presented.

Dr. Voss joined the HLGU faculty in 2009. He serves as the chair of the behavioral sciences department and an associate professor of psychology. Dr. Voss was noted as modeling scholarship for his students, teaching from a Christian worldview, and diligently providing many real-world experiences for his students. Dr. Voss earned a Ph.D. from the New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. He also holds master’s degrees in from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and New Mexico Highland University, as well as a Bachelor of Arts from Buena Vista College.

Additionally, Dr. Voss is a practicing clinician and has served as a contributor in various journals and publications. He’s been a presenter at several conferences and led multiple educational trips abroad. Dr. Voss is also a member of Cornerstone Baptist Church in Hannibal. He and his wife Kendra reside in Hannibal and have four grown children.

The Immanuel Staff Member of the Year Award was also presented at commencement to Mrs. Stephanie Reece. The staff member of the year has been awarded since 2010. This award is meant to honor individuals who contribute to the success and accomplishment of �������� University. The selection process includes nominations by fellow staff members with a vote of affirmation by the administration.

Stephanie has worked for �������� University for seven years. She currently holds the title of facilities coordinator and business operations manager, and is also the administrative assistant for the president. Stephanie is a 1991 HLGU alum and holds the bachelor of science degree in elementary education. Stephane lives in Hannibal with her husband Shannon, also an HLGU alum, and together they have two children, Nathan and Morgan, who have both attended HLGU.

Stephanie and her family served as missionaries in Zambia, Africa for three years and she and her husband are members of Calvary Baptist Church in Hannibal. Stephanie has a reputation at HLGU for being encouraging, selfless, hardworking, and one with a servants-heart, who goes above and beyond what’s expected of her.

To watch HLGU’s 2020 commencement ceremony, visit the HLGU Facebook page. For more information HLGU’s graduation ceremony, visit hlg.edu/news-events/commencement/ or contact Julie Andresen at 573-629-3130, or via email at jandresen@hlg.edu.

by Alex Shipley

This year’s commencement address will be given by Secretary John R. (Jay) Ashcroft, Missouri’s 40th Secretary of State.

Ashcroft was elected in 2016 and brings a unique perspective, and set of skills, to office through his experience as an attorney, engineer, and educator. His office provides business registration services, investor protection and education, and includes the State Library and State Archives. Secretary Ashcroft serves as the state’s chief elections official and is a member of several election and security committees within the National Association of Secretaries of State.

Secretary Ashcroft obtained degrees in engineering management from Missouri University of Science and Technology in Rolla, and is a graduate of St. Louis University School of Law. As a lawyer, an educator, and an engineer, he works to support local election officials, public libraries, and workforce development.

He currently lives in Jefferson City with his wife, Katie, and their four children: David, Samuel, Elise, and Benjamin.

HLGU’s commencement is a ticketed event this year, but will continue be live streamed on the HLGU Facebook page.

For more information on this year’s graduation ceremony, visit hlg.edu/news-events/commencement/ or contact Julie Andreson at jandresen@hlg.edu or 573-629-3130.

by Alex Shipley

Though HLGU’s 2020 Commencement has been rescheduled for August 15, graduates, faculty, and staff will still be celebrating on May 9, the original date, with a virtual ceremony.

The ceremony will be streamed on Facebook Live at 10 am on May 9 and will include comments from this year’s Who’s Who award winners, videos from graduates expressing what they’ve enjoyed about HLGU and what their plans are now, congratulations from faculty and staff, and a graduation address from Dr. Anthony Allen, HLGU President.

The virtual graduation project was proposed and is being completed by the PR Case Studies and Research class, taught by Christy Jung, assistant professor of communication studies.

Graduates are encouraged to submit a 10-30 second video clip that could be used in the virtual celebration video and may view instructions for video submissions here. Videos must be received by 11:00 PM on Thursday, April 30.

Graduates are also encouraged to post photos of themselves in their caps and gowns using the hashtag #wearehlgu.

“The greatest joy I have as president is to see our students discover, develop, and demonstrate God’s purpose for their lives,” said Dr. Allen. “We want you to know today that no matter where you go or how high you fly, you will always be in our hearts, so remember your alma mater. We’re proud of you.”

The commencement address was given by Mr. Rich Bott, CEO and chairman of Bott Radio Network, a national leader in Christian talk radio, featuring Bible teaching, Christian news, and information programming 24/7.

Mr. Bott’s address centered on challenging the graduates to discover what it is that the Lord has created them to do and to work at it with all their hearts.

“’Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart,’” he quoted from Psalm 37:4. Bott then went on to say, “Now that doesn’t mean he’s going to give you what you want, but it means delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires for what he wants to give you, and so when you delight yourself in the Lord, you can follow your desires, if they’re godly desires, and then find something that you really enjoy doing and that you’re really fulfilled in doing, and do it as unto the Lord.”

Mr. Bott also quoted 1 Corinthians 1:18, “For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness, but unto us which are saved, it is the power of God.”

“Don’t look to the world for your affirmation, your approval, and your applause,” he explained, “they think what you’re doing is foolish, but do it anyway, and do it in the power of God.”

Following the presentation of graduates, Jill Alexander and Steven Hodge, selected Who’s Who Among Seniors at HLGU, led the graduates in the graduate pledge and in giving a standing ovation to thank all friends and family for their support.

Also at commencement, the Parkway Distinguished Professor Award was presented to Mrs. Sabrina Brookshire. The award is given by Parkway Baptist Church in St. Louis, and selection is based on outstanding professional and personal contributions to Christian education.

Sabrina has served in a variety of roles across the University throughout her time here. Currently, she is the faculty sponsor and director of The New Edition, a traveling repertory troupe specializing in Christian theatre. The troupe leads creative worship in churches, conferences, and youth events, presenting challenging messages with a biblical foundation in a way that people clearly understand. The New Edition has performed across the United States and internationally and has the reputation of being one of the finest Christian college drama troupes in the nation.

Sabrina also oversees all the theatrical productions at HLGU, working with a diverse group of students and community members to produce high-quality plays and musicals.

In addition, HLGU also honors one staff member each year. The staff member of the year has been awarded since 2010. The selection process includes nominations by fellow staff members with a vote of affirmation by the administration. This year, the award went to Mrs. Dori Colborn.

Dori has worked for �������� University for four years as the payroll accountant, HR benefits coordinator, and employee Title IX coordinator. She also serves on the employee appreciation, employee experience, and graduation committees.

When nominating Dori for the award her colleagues said things about her such as, “Dori has a good attitude about the responsibilities she has been given,” and “she is pleasant and easy to work with and a joy to be around.”

Special music during the ceremony was presented by Kaitlynn Brown, Nanette Gorsett, Kailea Griffen, Romy Massey, Sara Perren, and Chair of the Music Department Mrs. Jane Griffen, and was accompanied by Angie Ferrell ’17.

Prior to the ceremony, the graduates processed through the HLGU arch on the University’s traditional Walk of Honor, symbolizing the end of their schooling and their entrance into the world as college graduates.

by Rebecca Sneed ’12

The greatest joy I have as president is to see our students discover, develop, and demonstrate God’s purpose for their lives,” said Dr. Allen. “We want you to know today that no matter where you go or how high you fly, you will always be in our hearts, so remember your alma mater. We’re proud of you.”

The commencement address was given by Mr. Glenn Miller, founder and CEO of Miller Management Systems, LLC. Dr. Miller is also a member of the HLGU Board of Trustees and currently serves as board treasurer, executive committee member, and chair of the presidential review committee.

Dr. Miller congratulated the graduates and opened his address by saying “What I love about educational achievements is you’ll get to take this with you for the rest of your life.”

Dr. Miller’s commencement address centered around its title of We Can Do Better, as he encouraged the graduates and those present to be unified in love toward one another, even when disagreeing with each other.

“If we want to see the world changed for the better…can I suggest to you that we as Christians should be working together, not apart?” asked Dr. Miller.

Following the presentation of graduates, Cassidy Winters and Keith Schmutzler, selected Who’s Who Among Seniors at HLGU, led the graduates in the graduate pledge and in giving a standing ovation to thank all friends and family for their support.

Also at commencement, the Parkway Distinguished Professor Award was presented to Dr. Julie Albee. The award is given by Parkway Baptist Church in St. Louis, and selection is based on outstanding professional and personal contributions to Christian education.

Dr. Julie Albee was selected by her colleagues for the award. She joined the HLGU faculty in 2003 and serves as a professor of education and director of student learning improvement.

Dr. Albee earned a PhD with a specialty in reading/literacy and higher education from the University of Missouri-Kansas City. She also holds a master’s of science degree from Iowa State University, and a bachelor of science from Missouri Western State College.

Since 2004 Dr. Albee has led �������� University’s efforts to improve student learning. Through her tireless efforts, and always-positive attitude, she has played a leading role in creating a can-do culture of continuous teaching and learning improvement on our campus.

Dr. Albee also models lifelong learning and makes contributions to her field through extensive research. She has published numerous articles and often been an invited speaker in the areas of reading and literacy. She actively participates in professional organizations to remain current in her field and has served in consulting roles for area school districts.

Dr. Albee exemplifies Christ-like character as a servant-leader, has a heart for people, and is known for her personal and professional integrity. Her husband Mark, serves as pastor of Immanuel Baptist Church in Hannibal. She and Mark have three grown children, Tim, Christina and Ben.

In addition, HLGU also honors one staff member each year. The staff member of the year has been awarded since 2010. The selection process includes nominations by fellow staff members with a vote of affirmation by the administration. This year, the award went to Mr. Brian Clark.

Brian began working at HLGU in the IT department in October 2016. Since that time few people have made an impact on the mission, culture, and function of HLGU as quickly as Brian. Brian holds a BA from Central Bible College, a Master of Arts in Pastoral Counseling from Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary and is currently working on completing a Master of Theological Studies, also from Liberty.

Brian successfully manages implementation of the new campus management software, training and support for that software, and many other IT campus needs, and he does so in a willing and positive manner.

Brian is the Associate Pastor at Tabernacle of Praise, here in Hannibal, where he serves in the areas of pastoral counseling and discipleship, the board of elders, and the worship team. Brian and his wife Jennie have been married for 14 years and have four children.

Special music during the ceremony was presented by Mr. Ben Kendall, instructor of music, and Mrs. Angela Smith Ferrell ’17.

Prior to the ceremony, the graduates processed through the HLGU arch on the University’s traditional Walk of Honor, symbolizing the end of their schooling and their entrance into the world as college graduates.

by Rebecca Sneed ’12

This year’s commencement speaker will be Mr. Glenn Miller, founder and CEO of Miller Management Systems, LLC, which was founded in 2000 and has served over 2,500 ministries across 28 denominations by providing accounting and administrative services.

Miller is also a member of the HLGU Board of Trustees and currently serves as board treasurer, executive committee member, and chair of the presidential review committee.

Mr. Miller holds an MBA from the University of Missouri, KC and has distinguished himself as a leader in administration and management practices.  He has served as a manager and administrator for various churches and at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and College. He also founded the Institute for Church Management in 2004, creating a ten course curriculum for improved church and non-profit administration.

Mr. Miller is co-author of three publications, Pastoral Helmsmanship, 2014, Confessions of a Church Felon, 2015, and A Pastor’s Guide to Church Conflict, scheduled for release this year. He has also authored an article series in Renovate Magazine’s Church Administration Corner. He has extensive volunteer service in churches and non-profit ministries and is in the dissertation defense phase of his DEdMin from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.

Mr. Miller has previously taught management and finance courses at Sterling College, Avila University, and Baker University where he was a curriculum writer, peer reviewer and served on the faculty development committee. While at Baker University, he was winner of the 2002 Bob Campbell Outstanding Faculty Service Award, received an excellence in teaching certificate ten different years and received multiple perfect scores from course reviews.

Mr. Miller married his wife Kim in 1981, and together they have four children and four grandchildren.

Beautiful weather reflected the bright spirits of 200 graduates as they walked across the stage in ceremonial regalia to shake the hand of �������� University President, Dr. Anthony Allen, and receive their diplomas on Saturday, May 6.

The commencement address was given by Dr. Dwight Blankenship, HLGU Vice Chairman of the Board of Trustees and pastor of Parkway Baptist Church, who spoke to the graduates on their vision for the future.

“In these moments before you receive [your diploma], what can I instill? What is the tool that I can give you?” Dr. Blankenship asked the graduates. “Every one of us ends up somewhere in life, but few of us end up somewhere on purpose.”

He continued, “Dear graduates, that’s what I’m sharing with you. Make your vision great. Make it big. Make it something that dares you to be more than you are…Dare to dream, be individuals of integrity, make obstacles into stepping stones, and learn the great lesson of forgiveness.”

Following the presentation of graduates, Brooke Kicklighter and Justin Dickson, selected Who’s Who Among Seniors at HLGU, led the graduates in the graduate pledge and in giving a standing ovation to thank all friends and family for their support.

Also at commencement, the Parkway Distinguished Professor Award was presented to Mrs. Michelle Todd. The award is given by Parkway Baptist Church in St. Louis, and selection is based on outstanding professional and personal contributions to Christian education.

Mrs. Todd has devoted 18 years of full-time service to HLGU where she serves as the business and computer information systems division chair as well as the computer information systems department chair. She holds the rank of associate professor. Mrs. Todd earned her associate and bachelor’s degrees from HLGU, and is currently pursuing a doctorate degree.

Mrs. Todd is married to Pastor Charles Todd, and is the mother to Mikayla and Marissa.

In addition, HLGU also honors one staff member each year. The staff member of the year has been awarded since 2010. The selection process includes nominations by fellow staff members with a vote of affirmation by the administration. This year, the award went to Mrs. Jenny Johnson. Mrs. Johnson holds the title of serving as the longest, continuously-working, full-time employee of �������� with 35 years of service celebrated this year.

A graduate of HLGU, Mrs. Johnson is married to Brent, also an HLGU graduate, and is the mother of two, Emily Charlton and Levi Johnson. Another title Jenny thoroughly enjoys holding is that of grandmother to Ruger and newborn Jackson Charlton.

Prior to the ceremony, the graduates processed through the HLGU arch on the University’s traditional Walk of Honor, symbolizing the end of their schooling and their entrance into the world as college graduates.

by Rebecca Sneed

This year’s commencement speaker will be Dr. Dwight Blankenship, HLGU Vice Chairman of the Board of Trustees and pastor of Parkway Baptist Church in St. Louis, MO.

Dr. Blankenship also currently serves as chairman of trustees for Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Kansas City, MO. He has also served on the nominating committee and local arrangements committee of the Southern Baptist Convention and Missouri Baptist Convention, and has served in various roles at other Baptist conventions, associations, and universities.

In 1972, Dr. Blankenship received a Bachelor of Science in Education from the University of Missouri. He went on to earn his Master of Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and become an ordained minister in 1978. He earned his Doctorate of Ministry in 1986.

Dr. Blankenship served as pastor for 21 years in various churches in Texas before being led back home to Missouri to pastor Parkway Baptist Church. Preaching God’s Word and pastoring God’s people is Dr. Blankenship’s greatest joy.

Having a heart for missions, Dr. Blankenship has actively participated in endeavors to East Asia, Ghana, Brazil, Eritrea, Mexico, Poland, China, Thailand, United Kingdom and the United States.

Every year at commencement, the Parkway Distinguished Professor Award, HLGU’s highest faculty award, is given by Dr. Blankenship’s church, Parkway Baptist Church in St. Louis. This will mark the 28^th year for the award. It is presented to an exceptional member of the HLGU Faculty. Selection is based on outstanding professional and personal contributions to Christian education.

by Rebecca Sneed ’12