Issuu

SUMMER 2021

CAUSE for CELEBRATION

Caps and gowns make a comeback as Liberty honors the Classes of 2020, 2021 Tim Tebow visits campus

YEAR IN REVIEW Rising above the challenges and celebrating academics, athletics, and spiritual growth

CONNECTING CONTINENTS Equity for Africa summit forges business partnerships with core Christian values

FAITH IN FOCUS Men’s Basketball Head Coach Ritchie McKay on why Liberty’s mission remains unchanged

SUMMER 2021 S E N I O R M A N AG I N G E D I TO R Mitzi Bible GRAPHIC DESIGNER Carrie Mitchell

4 | TIM TEBOW VISITS

CO N TR I B U T I N G E D I TO R S Kristin Conrad Scott Lamb Jerry Prevo Amanda Stanley W RI T E R S Ted Allen Mitzi Bible Jacob Couch Ryan Klinker Logan Smith

Read about top teaching awards, visits from Grammy-winning artists, upcoming entertainment, new Athletics Hall of Fame members, and more.

8 | YEAR IN REVIEW

23 | FAITH IN FOCUS

In a school year filled with unique challenges, Liberty celebrates the academic and athletic successes as well as opportunities for spiritual growth.

P H OTO G R A P H E R S Luke Bobbey Joel Coleman Chase Gyles KJ Jugar Ross Kohl Ellie Richardson Andrew Snyder

16 | NEWS & EVENTS

Commencement speaker tells graduates to commit to a life of serving others in Christ’s love and to view their future work as a place to worship God.

14 | EQUITY FOR AFRICA

Former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo headlined one of Liberty’s largest summits, connecting African leaders and American businesses on campus.

Men’s Basketball Head Coach Ritchie McKay tells how Liberty’s mission sets the university apart in higher education.

24 | FAMILY BLESSINGS

Before he died, LU founder Dr. Jerry Falwell made a promise to a widow — and now all eight of her children have attended Liberty tuition-free.

26 | PIONEERS RETURN

C R E AT I V E D I R E C TO R Josh Rice

Liberty’s first class of students came on faith and prayers in the fall of 1971. Many of them returned in April for a 50-year reunion.

P U B L I S H I N G STA F F Rebecca Beem Ashley Deanda Kerry Hogan Leslie Keeney Dawn Neal Christian Taylor

Alumni, students, parents, friends: O N T H E COV E R

What would you like to read about in the Liberty Journal? Share your news with us!

Degree presentation ceremonies were held on campus May 11-15.

Email news@liberty.edu

PHOTO BY KJ JUGAR

A degree presentation ceremony is held on the Academic Lawn on May 13. This is the first year the lawn has been used for Commencement.

For more information about the Liberty Journal, email news@liberty.edu, call (434) 592-4955, or write to: Liberty University Office of Communications & Public Engagement 1971 University Blvd., Lynchburg, Va. 24515

For information on Liberty’s academic programs, the admission process, alumni, or athletics, call (434) 582-2000. Liberty University is not affiliated with the Department of Defense or any military service. Liberty University does not engage in unlawful discrimination or harassment because of race, color, ancestry, religion, age, sex, national origin, pregnancy or childbirth, disability, or military veteran status in its educational programs and activities. Liberty University maintains its Christian character and reserves its right to discriminate on the basis of religion to the extent that applicable law respects its right to act in furtherance of its religious objectives.

RACH EL MCFARLAND

View the digital version and past issues at Liberty.edu/LibertyJournal.

MESSAGE from THE PRESIDENT

ANDR E W SNYDE R

ELLI E R I CH AR DSON

The 2020-21 academic year certainly presented us with challenges. We had to be creative and persistent to navigate a full year under the unprecedented limitations of COVID-19 mandates. But we rose above them, and I have good news: we plan to resume normal operations this fall. At the end of this challenging but rewarding year, I was able to join our graduates and their families in the celebration of Commencement. When I looked out over Williams Stadium and across the Academic Lawn and saw the joyful smiles and bright eyes beside those tassels, I was reminded of God’s blessings on this university and His promises for our future. He is faithful through it all. I told our graduates how proud I was of the many ways they have helped to distinguish both this university and themselves as the best of what Christian education can offer. I shared how we have reaffirmed our mission of Training Champions for Christ both inside and outside the classroom this year, and our students have been perfect examples. While they studied hard, enjoyed campus life, and grew in their own faith, they also shared the love of Christ. That is what makes me most proud, above any accomplishment. Early in the fall, when I asked students to volunteer to go to Washington, D.C., for a national prayer march to ask the Lord to heal our land, over 1,800 students signed up. In January, we held our own Life March on campus, praying for mothers in crisis and their unborn babies. Teams of students and faculty traveled to Louisiana and Georgia to help communities rebuild after devastating hurricanes and tornadoes. The list of outreach and acts of service goes on. As we look ahead to our 50th anniversary this fall, we stand amazed at all that God has done on this mountain over the last five decades. In 1971, our founder and my friend, Dr. Jerry Falwell, had a vision that the world could be filled with doctors, lawyers, pilots, engineers, nurses, teachers, artists, and professionals from every walk of life who love the Lord and were the very best at what they’d been called to be. Today we see his vision realized on this campus and in our graduates. They are the answer to thousands of prayers and the hope for our future. You will read more about our 48th Commencement in this issue as well as the many achievements of our faculty, staff, and students this year. I am so proud of all of them for meeting the challenges and feel so humbled to be a part of the Liberty family.

Jerry Prevo | President

C AUSE FOR

Celebration

W H E T H E R N E A R O R FA R , G R A D U AT E S TA K E PA RT I N C O M MEN C E M EN T A N D F U LFI LL T H E F O U N D E R’S V I S I O N Every year, thousands join the ranks of Liberty University alumni, not only sharing diplomas with the same university seal but also following the same calling to go out and influence their communities and workplaces as Champions for Christ.

The 48th Commencement celebrated the achievements of over 50,000 graduates in the Classes of 2020 and 2021. Complying with capacity and space measures put in place by the Governor of Virginia, the planning team changed course in a short period of time and

was still able to bring back many of the familiar sights and sounds that were missing last year when ceremonies had to be canceled for the first time due to COVID-19 restrictions. This year, rather than one full day of festivities, a total of 25 degree presentation ceremonies

The Liberty Journal congratulates all graduates of the Classes of 2020 and 2021. Visit Liberty.edu/Alumni to learn about the many exciting opportunities to stay connected with Liberty and the vast resources and benefits made specially available to Liberty alumni.

KJ JU GAR

During the main ceremony, President Prevo highlighted the outstanding accomplishments and resilience of the graduates and Liberty’s entire student body throughout this past year of the COVID-19 pandemic. He congratulated the university’s athletics teams for their stellar performance, which included a first-ever AP Top 25 ranking for Flames Football and several sports earning conference titles. Prevo also introduced a video that gave graduates the unique opportunity to hear the university’s founder, the late Dr. Jerry Falwell, communicate his vision for building a Christian university. With the 50th anniversary of Liberty’s founding set to kick off this fall, the video with archive footage was a touching tribute to the man who followed God’s calling on his own life and is still influencing lives today as thousands more are sent forth from Liberty Mountain to fulfill his original vision. The video was also played at every degree presentation ceremony. Prevo said that our world, in all its brokenness, needs Liberty and its graduates to bring the joyful and

redemptive message of the Gospel. “You’ll come across a lot of people whose lives are broken, and when you do, I hope you’ll love them and help them because that is what a Champion for Christ does,” he said. Prevo then shared the path to eternal life with Jesus Christ and charged the graduates to start with God and stay with God for their entire lives, in every undertaking. “There’s no other person who can help you make wiser decisions, no other person who can give you direction in life, better than God. So start with God. As you go out into this world, you’ll be surrounded by people who will try to get you to not stay with God. You have to make the decision to stay with God, and if you do, then your dreams will come true.” K J JU GAR

were spread out from May 11-15. All were held outdoors, either on the Academic Lawn or at Williams Stadium. President Jerry Prevo attended each ceremony to encourage graduates with a Gospel message as they entered a new chapter of life. Liberty welcomed more than 5,600 residential and online graduates to campus and 37,000 guests in all throughout the week. More than 10,000 graduates participated in their degree ceremonies virtually, a new element this year that allowed them to celebrate with friends and families many miles away from campus while still receiving individual recognition. The main ceremony, traditionally held at Williams Stadium in the morning, preceding the degree presentations, was only offered virtually this year, streamed on May 15 as a grand finale after all other Commencement events had concluded. Keynote speaker Tim Tebow delivered a powerful motivational charge to the graduates to lead a life of service to others through their chosen vocations (read more from his speech on Page 4).

Saluting

MI LI TA RY G R A D U AT E S

B ETHA NY BUTL ER EL LIE RIC HARDSON

CH ASE GYL ES

Liberty hosted its ninth annual Military Graduate Recognition Ceremony, streamed virtually from the Center for Music and the Worship Arts, Concert Hall on May 10. Ret. Col. Air Force Chaplain Steven Keith, director of Liberty’s Center for Chaplaincy, delivered the keynote address, exhorting military graduates to be sure that they are “all in” in answering the call of the Lord Jesus Christ and to serve as His ambassadors wherever He may lead them. In all, Liberty recognized the achievements of 5,494 military graduates in the Class of 2021, including 1,835 on active duty, and another 4,933 from the Class of 2020. On Friday, May 14, Liberty’s Army ROTC and Air Force ROTC programs held in-person commissioning services at the Thomas Road Baptist Church Worship Center and the National D-Day Memorial in nearby Bedford, Va., respectively.

THE MEASURE OF TRUE

Success

TIM TEBOW URGES GRADUATES TO LEAD BY EXAMPLE AS THEY CHOOSE A LIFE OF SERVICE TO OTHERS When Liberty University President Jerry Prevo welcomed professional athlete, philanthropist, and sports commentator Tim Tebow to the stage for the main Commencement ceremony, he listed the accomplishments that led the star into the spotlight. “By every measure, he’s achieved what the world considers success,” Prevo said. “But Tim also loves the Lord. And if you ask him, he’ll probably tell you that true success isn’t found on the field, the stage, or even on TV. It’s found serving children and sharing God’s love by fighting for those who cannot fight for themselves. It’s in helping every single person find their unique, special, and God-given worth.” As founder and chairman of the board of the Tim Tebow Foundation, which operates ministries dedicated

to serving and celebrating people with special needs, caring for homeless and abandoned children, providing physical and spiritual care to children with profound medical needs, and fighting human trafficking, Tebow has certainly found true success, Prevo said. While some have witnessed his prowess on the athletic field, it’s his unwavering commitment to his faith that has made him a source of inspiration to people all over the world. Looking past his Heisman Trophy, two college football National Championships, and professional football and baseball careers, Tebow encouraged Liberty’s graduates to view their own future work as worship unto the Lord as they seek to be Champions for Christ in their respective fields.

“I love Dr. Falwell’s dream of having believers that are excellent at what they do. I believe that’s what we’re called to do,” Tebow said of Liberty’s founder, Jerry Falwell Sr. He spoke about the Hebrew word “avodah” and its collective meaning of work, worship, and service. “Whatever you are about to go do — that job, that occupation, that internship, whatever it is — that’s also your place of worship,” he told the graduates, “not just the church you go to on Sunday.” Through their calling, purpose, and assignment, Tebow said that every Liberty graduate will have an impact if they do their work — their worship — unto the Lord, and he urged them to be active in living out the hope of Jesus Christ in their daily lives.

JOE L COLE M AN

Tim Tebow was presented with an honorary Doctor of Humanities before his speech. Left to right: President Jerry Prevo; Tebow; Dr. Scott Hicks, Provost and Chief Academic Officer; and Shawn Akers, Online Provost

JOEL COLE MA N

“Whatever you are about to go do — that job, that occupation, that internship, whatever it is — that’s also your place of worship, not just the church you go to on Sunday.” TIM TEBOW

Tim Tebow

EXCERPT FROM HIS COMMENCEMENT SPEECH:

"It’s one thing to know it (God’s love). There’s a lot of people that know it (and say), ‘Man, I know about God’s love, I know about His love for humanity.’ But are you bringing it? Is your life going to tell a story about ‘agape’ as a noun or a verb? I hope for me, it’s both — but more than anything, I hope it’s a verb. Because I hope my life is one where I deliberately choose the best interests of others and I act on their behalf. The same way when Jesus chose to act in our best interests and on our behalf, I’m going to ask you to. I want you to leave here inspired, that as you go, wherever you are going, to whatever is next for you, to whatever internship, job, or opportunity … I hope you bring not just the knowledge of everything that you’ve learned here, but the actions — the verb. And you choose

people’s best interests. When they’re hurting, you stay with them. When they’re lost, you tell them about Jesus. When they can’t afford something, you pay for them. When they need help, you figure it out. You choose their best interests — whether you like them or not, whether you know them or not, whether you’ve met them or not, whether you agree with everything they do or not. I’m so excited because I really believe that so many of you who are sitting here tonight, or watching around the world, are going to be heroes of the faith. You’re going to be teachers of the faith. You’re going to be bringers of the faith. You’re going to be carriers of the faith. And you’re going to have huge impacts on this world.”

View the full ceremony at Liberty.edu/News.

JOEL COL EMAN

Congratulations

GRADUATES

donta_smi

"God, thank you so much for Liberty, where I discovered who you've called me to be."

#USArmyVeteran

AC Donahue

Torie Cline

@loveisdios1968

caged_media_team

christian.bedell

mrxnte

@k_raelynn15

@GodIsGood81

"I told my sons that I would go back to school, and I promised them I would give it my all. I kept that promise..."

"...the lessons I've learned, the people I've met, the relationships I've built will never cease to have a positive impact on my life."

martyy7

hildebrandgrace

deeeebaby_

Lamar Ferrell

"Graduated from my favorite school yesterday!"

natalie_boutwell

"Thankful for my professors who pushed me. Thankful for the opportunities I had to further my career."

mikaylajq marcelorenz_iv_dsl

micahbg99

rebkleon

#Army #NeverGiveUpOnYourDreams

Patricia Cepeda Gracia Jen L. Hillman

"Liberty University has been a huge blessing in my life and the lives of my family."

Maurice Bryant avabraatz

"Hello world, we're ready."

YEAR in REVIEW

WE DID IT.

The 2020-21 school year brought many unique obstacles, but Liberty faculty, staff, and students rose to the challenge When campus opened last fall, there was a sense of excitement even amid the social distancing, mask mandates, and other changes put in place to ensure students’ health and safety during the pandemic. While a COVID-19 Task Force was formed to monitor the situation and a campus operating plan was rolled out with guidance from the CDC and the Virginia Department of Health, “Champions Together” became the catch phrase for Liberty’s cooperative

effort to guarantee that the same vibrant campus environment that the university is known for would continue. Attending classes, eating in campus dining venues, and participating in sports, recreation, and student life activities may have looked a little different, but the Liberty family supported one another and was determined not to let the 2020-21 school year be defined by the restrictions. While adhering to the guidelines, students still built

lasting friendships, enjoyed an engaging lineup of Convocation speakers, and joined in creative campus events. Professors and coaches still focused on becoming mentors, and students excelled inside and outside the classroom. It was a year of challenges, but also much growth. A look back at the accomplishments of this past year will affirm that God is faithful and that His blessings continue to flow on Liberty Mountain.

EL LIE RICH ARDSON

SPIRITUAL DEVELOPMENT From Franklin Graham’s visit to Convocation early last fall to Tim Tebow’s end-of-the-year 2021 Commencement address, this past school year was filled with an abundance of spiritual wisdom and insight. Beginning with weekly community group gatherings on each of Liberty’s residence halls and expanding to larger events such as Wednesday night Campus Community and twice-aweek Convocations, Liberty prioritized students’ spiritual well-being by presenting them with the opportunity to be immersed in godly encouragement and biblical teaching. Campus Community began in Williams Stadium in the fall but was moved to the School of Music’s Center for Music and the Worship Arts, Concert Hall as the weather turned colder. Students reserved spots each week for the limited seating or watched online. The sermon series “Deeper” led students to a greater encounter with God, seeking to know Him more intimately. In the spring, students enjoyed the sermon series “Playlist,” which took them on a journey through the Psalms. At the beginning of February, Campus Community was the

first large event to take place under a new Vines Center roof after the arena had been closed for construction for 11 months. Graham’s Convocation message at Williams Stadium in September was followed by virtual Convocations for much of the year, with guests speaking in person from Liberty’s broadcast studios or joining virtually from their homes and workplaces across the country. Convocation also moved to the Concert Hall later in the year, with a socially distanced audience, and it eventually returned to the Vines Center on April 30 — the first Convocation in the arena since February 2020 — with world-renowned worship leader and Christian music recording artist Chris Tomlin. The opening virtual Convocation featured President Jerry Prevo and Thomas Road Baptist Church Senior Pastor Jonathan Falwell, who were followed on the stage each week by spiritual leaders from many different walks of life. Among them were pastors Andy Stanley, David Platt, and Levi Lusko, political and cultural influencers Ted Cruz, Lee Strobel, Jackie Hill Perry, and Voddie Baucham Jr., and ministry leaders Cissie Graham Lynch, Will

Graham, and Emmanuel Ntibonera. The spring semester lineup kicked off with Kirk Nowery, CEO of Hope Partners International, before showcasing pastors from various regions of the country, including Mark Batterson from Washington, D.C., Bryan Jarrett and Jonathan Pokluda from Texas, Tyler Staton from New York, and Matt Brown from California. The spring panel also showcased NFL Hall of Fame running back Marcus Allen, best-selling author Annie F. Downs, and award-winning recording artist Steven Curtis Chapman and his wife Mary Beth, who reminded Liberty’s student body of the peace the Lord gives His children in times of trial and tragedy. Some special guests joined both Campus Community and Convocation this year, including award-winning songwriter and recording artist Phil Wickham. Liberty also offered other spiritually focused concerts and opportunities, including the School of Music’s 14th Annual Night of Worship in April, featuring university partner Michael W. Smith, who was joined by music students on stage for a passionate worship service.

E LL I E R I C HAR DSON

Campus Community, April 7

Cissie Graham Lynch

Marcus Allen

Will Graham

YEAR in REVIEW

SERVICE Throughout this school year, Liberty students continued to build off the university’s longstanding tradition of serving those in the community and beyond, from meeting the needs of hurricane victims to holding public health fairs. During these various volunteer opportunities, Liberty’s mission of Training Champions for Christ is consistently lived out in the Lynchburg area, across the nation, and around the world. Last fall, students partnered with LU Serve and Operation Blessing to pack buckets of supplies for homeowners directly affected by hurricanes. Almost 300 students gathered in the LaHaye Event Space over the span of six hours to pack 540 buckets. Weeks later, in the midst of the holiday season, Liberty students set aside their personal agendas and ventured south to Lake Charles, La., with LU Serve’s disaster relief team, LU Send Now, and Samaritan’s Purse to repair properties damaged by hurricanes. In April, LU Send Now once again sent a team south, this time to aid Newnan, Ga., residents whose homes had been ravaged by tornadoes. While service and outreach trips are consistent throughout each semester, the school’s heartbeat for helping is

exemplified and on full display during Liberty’s annual Serve Lynchburg event, a two-day spring service blitz where faculty, staff, and close to 1,500 students blanketed the community with Christ’s love. Volunteer activities included mulching around the Eagle Eyrie Baptist Conference Center, painting at the Free Clinic of Central Virginia in Bedford, clearing debris at area cemeteries, assisting local churches in repairs, and beautifying nearby museums and Blackwater Creek Trail, to name a few. The Liberty student body is active on a weekly basis, serving through CSER (Christian Community Service) and volunteer opportunities. CSER is a requirement for all residential undergraduate students (20 hours each semester), but students often surpass those hours. Their volunteer time enhances their educational experience, fosters personal transformation, promotes community engagement, and helps them learn valuable skills and life lessons that they will take with them into their careers. LU Serve, in partnership with the Alumni Office, honored four students (one per class) with the CSER of the Year awards. This year’s recipients, Gabriela Hayes, Lauren Gutierrez, Audrey Lambert,

and Rachel Smith, were recognized for their love and care for teens, students, orphans, and individuals with autism. This spring, the School of Law participated in the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program, where students helped community members, one-on-one, with filing their taxes for free. The Journey, a Liberty-owned radio station, and its listeners collected more than 1,300 baby items for the Blue Ridge Pregnancy Center’s annual “World’s Largest Baby Shower.” Liberty’s healthcare students have been involved in numerous community outreach events. As an ongoing community partner in combating the COVID-19 pandemic, osteopathic medical students and nursing students have volunteered to assist with the vaccine rollout at community clinics. Students from Liberty’s Department of Public & Community Health were afforded valuable field experience and a platform to serve the local underserved Hispanic population with medical screenings at a health fair at La Iglesia de las Americas church in Lynchburg. In March, nursing students provided clinical care, taught proper health practices, and shared their faith during two separate trips to Kenya and Rwanda.

KJ JUGAR

Serve Lynchburg, April 16-17

Operation Blessing project

ELL IE RICH ARDSON

LU Send Now, Lake Charles, La.

Nursing students in Kenya

K J JUG AR

Broadcast studio control room

Archaeology survey in New London

ACADEMICS Students’ top-tier performances in the classroom and in academic competitions this year have shown what being a Champion for Christ looks like, excelling in their respective fields for the glory of God. For the first time in program history, a moot court team from the Helms School of Government beat out 99 of the best teams in the nation to win the American Moot Court Association National Tournament, and two Liberty Law students took first place at an international competition in negotiation against teams from the U.S., Europe, and Asia. In January, a team of engineering students led by Dean Mark Horstemeyer claimed second place in the NFL’s 1st and Future competition for a new football helmet design. Mechanical engineering professor Dr. Hector Medina and his research team made an awe-inspiring and beautiful discovery last fall of microscopic rose-like crystals while viewing the results of a study on using acids to create rough surfaces on the metal titanium for use with dental implants. Their work was featured in an issue of Advanced Science News magazine. Two drone-based projects that were developed out of the School of Engineering’s robotics research lab won prizes in prestigious competitions. One was designed to assist with aerial

imaging for COVID-19 social distance monitoring at sporting events and other outdoor gatherings, and the second is an agricultural monitoring system that can increase farmers’ crop yields. In March, student-doctors from the Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine (LUCOM) experienced a virtual Match Day in which they found out where they’ll spend their residencies, culminating in a 98% match rate (see Page 18). Multiple academic programs made changes to their curriculum this year to reflect our increasingly digital world, including a new Church Ministry in the Digital Age specialization under the Master of Arts in Religion and the Master of Divinity programs in the John W. Rawlings School of Divinity. The Department of Digital Media & Journalism also unveiled nine new degree concentrations that include sports journalism, church media production, and music recording, among others. The Department of History has continued its archaeological survey efforts at the university-owned properties in the

historic town of New London, uncovering one of only five known arsenals from the American Revolution and a Native American spear point that archaeologists have confirmed to be over 5,000 years old. Two history students won top awards from the Archeological Society of Virginia Conference for their research in the town. Also this year, Liberty students were awarded internships with NASA and the U.S. Embassy in Panama while others were recognized by the Kennedy Center, Virginia Academy of Family Physicians, Virginia Nursing Association, and international honor society Kappa Delta Pi. Six students and four faculty members were named semifinalists for 2021-22 Fulbright grants.

School of Engineering's robotics research lab

KJ J UGAR

YEAR in REVIEW

JESS I E R OGER S

ATHLETICS Headlined by the football team’s first AP Top 25 ranking and second bowl victory, 10 NCAA conference titles, and a third consecutive national championship for the ACHA Division I women’s hockey team, Liberty University’s Athletics and Club Sports teams shined brightly for Christ in a year of many obstacles. Coming off a first-ever FBS bowl victory in the 2019 Cure Bowl in Orlando, Fla., Flames Football took its game to the next level this past fall, defeating two ACC opponents on the road (Syracuse and Virginia Tech) en route to an impressive 9-1 regular-season record. That attracted a second Cure Bowl invitation, this time against undefeated Coastal Carolina, a longtime Big South Conference rival. The thrilling back-and-forth battle culminated in a 37-34 overtime triumph over the No. 11-ranked Chanticleers. Liberty’s men’s basketball team became only the second team to be crowned ASUN Tournament champions three seasons in a row when it defeated North Alabama 79-75 in the ASUN final on March 7 at UNF A ND REW SN YDE R

Arena in Jacksonville, Fla. With a 23-5 overall record, the Flames punched their third consecutive ticket to March Madness and received a No. 13 seed in the Midwest Region. Liberty led No. 4-seeded Oklahoma State at halftime of its opening-round game at Farmers Coliseum in Indianapolis but was eventually eliminated by the Cowboys 69-60. In the Spring 2021 semester, all but one of Liberty’s 20 NCAA Athletics programs (football) competed as the university packed in almost a year’s worth of scheduled events into one “Super Spring” season. And it was “super” in many ways. Liberty Athletics donned its highest number of ASUN Conference Championship crowns in history, taking titles in men’s indoor track & field, women’s cross country, men’s basketball, women’s soccer, men’s golf, men’s tennis, softball, and men’s and women’s outdoor track & field. The women’s swimming & diving team also captured the CCSA Championship in a meet that it hosted in the Liberty Natatorium. Before being eliminated by Old Dominion

in the BIG EAST Conference tournament semifinals to finish with a 13-3 record, Liberty’s field hockey team reached new heights this spring when it ascended to No. 6 in the nation, the highest national ranking in Liberty NCAA Athletics history. On the ice in mid-April, Liberty’s Division I men’s hockey program reached the ACHA National Championship semifinals for the first time since 2008 while the Lady Flames further established their dynasty on ice, defeating Lindenwood University 3-1 in the ACHA Division I women’s hockey finals at Maysa Arena in Minot, N.D. While Liberty’s student-athletes showcased outstanding season performances, Liberty Athletics also opened the doors on two new beautiful facilities — the Liberty Arena, home to the basketball and women’s volleyball teams, and the Liberty Indoor Tennis Center. The university recently announced plans for a new 75,000-square-foot Liberty Multipurpose Center set to open next summer (see Page 21).

CAMPUS LIFE While abiding by COVID-19 mandates, the Student Activities and Campus Recreation departments, as well as the Student Government Association and student clubs, all worked diligently and creatively to offer students a year filled with exciting social activities and camaraderie with friends and

classmates. From movie nights on the lawn to weekend concerts, Coffeehouse, intramural sports, the Hydaway Outdoor Center, the campus bowling alley, yearround ski and snowboarding slope, fitness centers, and much more, students enjoyed a break from their studies and engaged in special times of fellowship.

CH AS E GYLES

John Mark McMillan concert

Chalk the Lot event

C HASE GYL E S

Liberty Mountain Intramural Sports Complex

Spring Coffeehouse

LU PLANS TO OPEN WITH NORMAL OPERATIONS THIS FALL In March, President Jerry Prevo announced that the university would open the Fall 2021 semester without COVID-19 restrictions. “As our leadership teams plan for the 2021-22 academic year, we want to share some joyful news: Liberty plans for a return to normal operation, as things were prepandemic,” he said. “With national and state data showing suppression of the spread of the virus, we are encouraged, foremost, that our prayers are being answered. If the data continues on this positive trajectory,

and as local and state guidelines continue to be lifted, our campus will welcome students back in the fall — and we will do so without restrictions.” The majority of Virginia’s COVID-19 restrictions were lifted on May 28. “We will continue to keep the health and safety of our students and the entire campus community a priority,” Prevo explained. “We have a solid, dedicated team whose job is to make sure our students have all the resources they need to thrive in their educational pursuits, and

that includes a safe learning environment. We will still be encouraging the campus community to form healthy habits and look out for the health and safety of others.” Information on the university’s COVID-19 response and health and safety measures will remain available at Liberty.edu/COVID19. Residential classes begin on Aug. 23. The university is on pace to welcome its largest residential incoming class in school history this fall.

A SPECIAL THANK YOU:

This year could not have been a success without Liberty’s dedicated employees who took on extra tasks to help protect the health and welfare of students, faculty, and staff. From the planning and monitoring by the Health & Wellness Initiatives office and the care provided by the Liberty University Health Center, to the facilities crews who implemented additional cleaning and sanitizing measures across campus and dining staff who ensured safe food service, the Liberty community is grateful for their valuable roles in helping the university rise to the challenge.

CH AS E GYLES

Former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo greeted African business leaders following his keynote address.

CONNECTING CONTINENTS SUMMIT INCREASES COOPERATION AND INVESTMENT FROM AMERICAN BUSINESSES BY LOGAN SMITH

The Liberty University School of Business, in partnership with Liberty’s Standing for Freedom Center, organized and implemented one of the most groundbreaking summits in school history April 13-15, bringing in top government and business trailblazers from across Africa to discuss ways to orchestrate and deliver Judeo-Christian foundational change for

all economies involved. These African leaders, either attending in person or through videoconferencing, included the vice president of Nigeria, president of Ghana, former president of Malawi, vice president of Liberia, and other political and economic heads of state. Members of the Congo parliament, the governor of South Sudan, an ambassador

to Rwanda, and billionaire Nigerian businesswoman Folorunso Alakijah also participated. Many other countries wanted to attend, like South Africa, but were prevented by absolute COVID-19 shutdowns. American leaders included CEO of Hobby Lobby Steve Green; former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo; former FROM LEFT: Liberty University President Jerry Prevo, Hobby Lobby CEO Steve Green, Pastor Forson Swanzy, former NFL player and CEO of the Brewer Group Jack Brewer, and CEO of Octane Public Relations and Advertising Everett Hamilton EL LIE RICH ARDSON

(TOP LEFT) Former NASA Director Jim Bridenstine, center, with Ambassador to Kenya Kyle McCarter, right, and Nyanjui Muigai of Kenya Energy | (TOP RIGHT) School of Business Dean Dave Brat with Governor of South Sudan Denay Chagor | (BOTTOM LEFT) Dave Brat with Dr. Oluwasayo Ajiboye, President of Mission Africa International | (BOTTOM RIGHT) H.E. Ambassador Mukantabana, Rwanda

Secretary of Defense Christopher Miller; former NFL star and business entrepreneur Jack Brewer; former NASA Director Jim Bridenstine; World Bank Director Erik Bethel; Marc Short, former Chief of Staff to Vice President Mike Pence; and Congressman Ted Yoho, among others. “This event was a Herculean effort, and our whole team was blown away by what we saw,” said Dr. Dave Brat, dean of the School of Business and former U.S. Congressman. “The Bible says feed the poor. The only thing that feeds the poor in the millions is broad-based economic growth, and the major cause of economic growth is capital accumulation. … The goal of this summit was to direct capital investments to Africa.” Within a week of the summit, many of the participants were holding business meetings to make those connections happen. The summit included 20 panels that tackled a wide range of economic subjects — how countries can structure deals and implement goodwill diplomacy,

emerging technologies impacting developing countries, and how to end expropriation. African leadership also pitched economic opportunities within their countries, and American business leaders responded with possible solutions. Both days kicked off with Faith Factor events which brought all nations together in shared faith, worship, and friendship. Pompeo delivered the keynote address, focusing on religious liberty and the need for Christ-centered principles in Africa’s economic growth. “Every African, and indeed every human, wants the same basic things,” Pompeo said. “They want freedom and the ability to take care of their families, and they all understand that there’s very little that is more noble than the dignity that comes with a job and opportunity

to work and to deliver on behalf of their families and community. And Africans who get the opportunity to do so are obviously better, and their nation more prosperous and secure.” He recognized the growing threats in Africa, including terrorist regimes and communism. “Communism and socialism have failed every place they have been tried,” Pompeo said. “I hope that African nations will see that these failed socialist experiments should be of the past, and we should move forward to a new future based on a set of basic principles. … I’m supremely confident that together we can make the world better and make America better. And we are here to work on ways to make Africa stronger, more prosperous, and secure.”

The summit’s success prompted plans for a second Africa-themed summit, tentatively scheduled for late September. Visit Liberty.edu/Business/Equity-for-Africa-Summit/ to watch the sessions and learn about upcoming events.

NEWS & EVENTS David Nasser receives fond farewell; Liberty welcomes familiar face as new campus pastor

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The final Convocation of the year on April 30 was bittersweet, as David Nasser, former senior vice president for spiritual development, and his family were publicly recognized for their years of service to Liberty and its students. Nasser announced his resignation earlier in the month after seven years as campus pastor. Following an opening tribute video to Nasser, President Jerry Prevo thanked Nasser and his family for their wholehearted ministry to Liberty’s student body. He presented Nasser and his wife, Jennifer, with a framed resolution passed by the university’s Board of Trustees honoring them for their service. “The goal of any great leader is to leave a place better than when he came, and

David Nasser has done that, and we want to thank him for it,” Prevo said. “He’s had a tremendous impact at Liberty University, and he’s going to be missed.” As campus pastor, Nasser oversaw the Office of Spiritual Development and its many programs, including LU Stages, LU Send and LU Send Now, LU Shepherd, LU Serve, and the Worship Collective. Nasser has now joined the Angel Armies ministry in Nashville, founded by Christian music artist and personal friend Chris Tomlin. The nonprofit partners with childserving organizations that are committed to utilizing the Church to help end the child welfare crisis and keeping children out of foster care. “This has been one of the most difficult

decisions we’ve ever had to make, but we do feel affirmed that God is asking for our obedience to step out of this role in ministry and into a whole new role in ministry elsewhere,” David Nasser said in a video announcing his resignation to students on social media. “As your campus pastor, I can’t ask you week after week to be obedient and to go wherever (God) leads and then not model that very same thing in our own lives.” Liberty named Jonathan Falwell, senior pastor of Thomas Road Baptist Church, as its new campus pastor. During the final Convocation, Falwell also thanked Nasser for his strong spiritual leadership and led a prayer for the Nassers’ future ministry endeavors. “There’s no question that over the last seven years that David has been here, God has used him and Jennifer in an amazing way to keep the spiritual climate of this university in a place where I know God intended it to be,” he said. Falwell said Liberty will be welcoming David Nasser back to campus to speak at Campus Community in the near future.

Pompeo, Huckabee join Standing for Freedom Center fellows

In the spring, Liberty University’s Standing for Freedom Center added several new fellows, including (from left) former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, pro-life activist Abby Johnson, former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee, and Christian entrepreneurs and Liberty alumni Jason and David Benham. These experts will be influential in making a biblical impact on the culture while advancing the cause of freedom. They will also take part in equipping a young generation of Christians to be bold in their faith wherever God calls them to serve. “These fellows embody the core of what our center stands for: faith, freedom, and engaging culture with Gospel-centered

truth,” said Ryan Helfenbein, executive director. “I’m proud to have these faithful world-changers on board with us and am excited to see our center grow with them.” Secretary Pompeo will also be serving as a senior advisor, bringing in a wealth of political and ministerial knowledge to the center. In the Trump administration, he developed a fierce defensive posture for religious liberty on an international scale. The center will continue shining light on America’s political and cultural issues — including rights of the unborn, right to bear arms, limited government, and free markets. The center believes that Christian citizens have an obligation to be salt and light in every vocation.

“It is critical that we, as followers of Christ, understand the threat that cultural leftism has on the global church and the nuclear family,” Helfenbein said. “At the Freedom Center, we want to continue to be that educational resource on everything regarding Christians’ responsibility in the public sphere.” The conservative think tank launched in November 2019 and has amassed hundreds of thousands of followers across its social media platforms, mobilized a team of student ambassadors, hosted three nationally broadcasted summits, and partnered with an array of conservative public figures to promote Christian and traditional values. The center’s podcast has brought in pastors and faith leaders from around the nation, including Tim Lee, Richard Lee, the Benhams, Virgil Walker, Darrell Harrison, Jack Graham, and John MacArthur. The center has also partnered with New York Times bestselling author and conservative commentator Eric Metaxas.

MUSIC, WORSHIP, AND LIFE LESSONS The spring semester brought some of the world’s finest worship leaders to Liberty University, including Michael W. Smith, Steven Curtis Chapman, Chris Tomlin, and Tasha Cobbs, who not only sang songs but also shared inspirational stories from their own lives and advice for students’ futures. In February, School of Music students engaged with Smith in person when he visited classes to offer his expertise in the music industry and encouragement during songwriting sessions as he worked with some of the school’s worship teams. Smith, who returned to campus in April for the School of Music’s 14th Annual Night of Worship, has been a regular guest to campus since the school’s Michael W. Smith Center for Commercial Music was launched in 2019 with the mission to train competent,

proficient, marketplace musicians to serve as commercial music industry practitioners. Smith is the center’s executive director. In April, renowned contemporary Christian recording artist Steven Curtis Chapman and his wife, Mary Beth, joined Convocation at the Center for Music and the Worship Arts, Concert Hall, where they shared stories about their family, parenting, and the impact that adoption can have on children and families around the world before he sang songs from his celebrated career, including “His Eyes” and “My Redeemer is Faithful and True.” Chapman began his decorated music career in the 1980s and has since been recognized as the most awarded artist in the history of Christian music. Liberty’s last Convocation of the school year featured 23-time Grammy Award-

winning worship leader, recording artist, and songwriter Chris Tomlin, who shared exciting updates about the future for his ministry, Angel Armies, while also leading the student body in singing some of his well-known worship anthems including “Good Good Father,” “How Great is Our God,” and “Our God.” During Liberty’s final Campus Community of the year, Grammy Awardwinning gospel artist Tasha Cobbs led an evening filled with worship in the Vines Center. “This last year has been a challenging one but I believe that it’s been an eyeopening one,” Cobbs said. “That in our time alone at home or wherever it may be, I believe it’s given God a time without all the outside voices and outside noises to really let us know how much He loves us and what He thinks of us.”

2020-21 PRESIDENT’S AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING These awards are celebrated as the university’s most prestigious annual academic awards, recognizing educators for their creative and innovative approaches to teaching, effective use of instructional technology, and exceptional pedagogical skill. Recipients were formally honored during Commencement.

UNDERGRADUATE

GRADUATE

Jared Barber

Assistant Professor of Linguistics, Spanish, and TESL; Program Head, TESL Director, LU Spanish Institute Department of Modern Languages, College of Arts and Sciences

Travis V. Holt

Assistant Professor of English, Faculty Athletics Representative Department of English, College of Arts and Sciences

Cara L.T. Murphy

Instructional Mentor, Instructor John W. Rawlings School of Divinity

Professor assists grant project for mental health services in rural areas School of Behavioral Sciences professor Dr. Fred Volk is working as the co-principal investigator and project evaluator on an $800,000 grant recently awarded to Horizon Behavioral Health to serve clients with mental health and substance use issues in Virginia’s Amherst and Bedford counties. The grant from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) will allow Horizon to serve 150 adults, 18 and older, who struggle getting treatment due to lack of providers and available services. Volk, a professor of counseling, has worked at Liberty since 2006. He holds a master’s in Community/Clinical Psychology and Ph.D. in Human Factors Psychology from Wichita State University. He will provide his feedback throughout the four years of the grant-funded outreach and treatment services, which began in May.

Linda M. Mintle

Professor and Chair, Behavioral Health; Director, Strategic Development for Clinical Affairs College of Osteopathic Medicine

Samuel J. Smith

Professor/Director of School Administration Program School of Education

Liberty thanks these professors for their essential role in Training Champions for Christ.

Medical students celebrate high match rate for residency placements Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine (LUCOM) announced a highly successful 98% match rate for its fourth-year osteopathic medical students this year. Match Day — when students learn their residency placements — was the largest in the history of the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP), with 38,106 total positions offered. Match Day is held every March, and this year LUCOM student-doctors celebrated their placements with family, classmates, staff, and faculty during a virtual event. Often viewed as a rite of passage for medical students, the Match is the gateway

to graduate medical education following graduation from medical school and the next phase of residency training for three to seven years, depending on the medical or surgical specialty that graduates enter. This year’s Match results were highly anticipated given the change in course of medical education and an all-virtual interview season during the COVID-19 pandemic. The intensely competitive process saw 42,000 candidates competing for residency programs. Specialty physician faculty in LUCOM’s Clinical Affairs office spent thousands of hours advising and guiding students in order to achieve a fourth successful year for LUCOM in the Match.

CH AS E GYLES

Surprise Reunion STUDENTS DISCOVER THEY WERE RAISED TOGETHER IN SAME CHINESE ORPHANAGE BY RYA N K L I N K E R

An unassuming bus ride across Liberty University’s campus last semester became a perfect example of how God can miraculously connect people across continents and make the world seem small. On April 14, then-sophomore Ally Cole and freshman Ruby Wierzbicki boarded a bus as strangers but soon uncovered a shared past that goes back to an orphanage in China 15 years ago. Cole was headed to class in Marie F. Green Hall and struck up some small talk with Wierzbicki. She learned Wierzbicki was from New Jersey but was adopted from China. Cole told her she was also adopted from China and grew up in Maryland. They didn’t marvel at their stories at first — many children are adopted

“We held the photos side by side on our phones and we realized that everything matched, and we knew that it had to be the same place,” Wierzbicki said. Their bus dropped them off and they stepped off to the side to continue sharing photos and uncover just how much their paths had crossed as young children. As it turns out, they were adopted one week apart (Cole was 6 and Wierzbicki was 4) and could even identify themselves standing beside each other in the photos. “I hadn’t known who the girl next to me was, but now I know,” Cole laughed. They both took a similar path in choosing to attend Liberty. Both said it wasn’t their first choice, but after they visited during a

Cole (left) and Wierzbicki at the orphanage in China

from China. But when they learned they came from the same city — Jinan — and then showed each other photos from their orphanage, the similarities were undeniable.

After meeting on a Liberty campus bus, Cole (left) and Wierzbicki hold up the same photo they’d each had from their time at the orphanage.

College for a Weekend (CFAW), they knew Liberty was the place for them. “I came to CFAW, and I just fell in love with the school and the community here,” Wierzbicki said. “It was definitely different than any of the other schools I looked into, and now we’ve realized these little details that God has orchestrated in all of this. God really does have our lives according to His plan and in His control.” As they each retraced their journeys from China to the U.S. and then to a campus swarming with more than 15,000 students, Wierzbicki, an exercise science student, and Cole, who is studying graphic design, acknowledged that their meeting was no accident. “There are people I’ve talked to about this who said, ‘What a coincidence.’ But we think that this is 100% God,” Wierzbicki said. “There’s no way that two people who were in the same orphanage in a different country can somehow end up at the same school at the same time and have it not be God.” The two were excited to share their encounter and posted it on their personal social media accounts for their friends and family to see. But when Liberty’s Office of Communications and Public Engagement published it on the university’s website and social media channels, news of their miraculous reunion was retold by numerous local and national media outlets, including CNN, NPR, and The Federalist.

Students display dedication to learning during Research Week

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Liberty University held its annual Research Week April 12-16, featuring 263 presentations from undergraduate and graduate students in residential and

online programs. Following a successful Research Week last spring, when all presentations were given virtually due to COVID-19, this year’s in-person event

at the Jerry Falwell Library saw the largest participation since its inception in 2017. Research Week is a multidisciplinary event. A total of 59 faculty from several different departments volunteered to serve as the week’s judges, and cash prizes were given to first-place presentations. This year, a new category featuring remote poster presentations was offered for students in Liberty’s online program. The week is sponsored by the Center for Research & Scholarship (CRS), the Graduate School, and the Jerry Falwell Library. View a list of winners at Liberty.edu/News.

Voices behind ‘Animaniacs,’ ‘Adventures in Odyssey’ coming to Sonic-Con this fall

The creative minds and voices behind the Warner Brothers wacky cartoon “Animaniacs” and Focus on the Family’s

“Adventures in Odyssey” will join the second annual Sonic-Con audio theatre convention Oct. 22-24 on Liberty’s campus. The headline show “Animaniacs LIVE!” will feature performers Rob Paulsen (voice of Yakko and Pinky), Maurice LaMarche (Brain), and Randy Rogel (Composer) accompanied in singalongs by the Liberty Symphony Orchestra in the Center for Music and the Worship Arts, Concert Hall. “Adventures in Odyssey” cast members Katie Leigh (Connie

Kendall) and Will Ryan (Eugene Meltsner) as well as co-creator Phil Lollar will be returning from last year’s inaugural convention to once again lead masterclasses alongside other industry professionals in areas of voice acting, writing, and sound design. There will also be a new works festival, fun voice competitions, and live audio performances. Weekend passes and Animaniacs LIVE! tickets go on sale July 1 and are available on the convention website, Sonic-con.org.

Theatre Arts announces 2021-22 season Following an unprecedented 2020-21 season in which it performed eight wideranging shows in front of limited audiences due to COVID-19 health and safety protocols, Liberty University’s Theatre Arts Department has announced its next lineup, bringing familiar classics and lesser-known gems to the stage, most of which have never been performed at Liberty.

SHOW DATES • Fiddler on the Roof: Sept. 17 – Oct. 3 • Original Audio Dramas: Oct. 25 & 26 • Little Moon of Alban: Nov. 12-20 • Oliver!: Dec. 3-12 • Measure for Measure: Feb. 4-13 • The Darkest Evening: Feb. 25 – March 6 • Student Lab Shows: April 1 & 2 • 42nd Street: April 22 – May 1

Season tickets go on sale July 1. Visit tickets.liberty.edu or call (434) 582-SEAT (7328).

Five alumni added to Liberty Athletics Hall of Fame

Liberty Athletics will induct five new members into its Hall of Fame in September: Kyrie (Dorn) Adams (volleyball, 1996-99);

Kyrie Adams

Pat Bussey

Pat Bussey (wrestling, 1981-86); Robert Karlsson (men’s golf, 2009-12); Megan (Frazee) Leuzinger (women’s basketball, 2005-09); and James McKnight (football/ men’s track & field, 1990-94). The induction ceremony will be held Sept. 3 at the Alumni Ballroom in the Montview Student Union. The new members will also receive special recognition during Liberty’s

Robert Karlsson

football game against Campbell University on Sept. 4 at Williams Stadium. The Liberty Athletics Hall of Fame honors those who helped shape the face of Liberty Athletics. The 68 members have each played a key role in helping Liberty grow from an NCCAA program in 1972 to its current status as a thriving NCAA Division I program.

Megan Leuzinger

James McKnight

New multipurpose center opening next summer Ian McCaw said. “More specifically, the flexible space will be invaluable to our fall and spring sports teams, especially during inclement weather.” The Flames’ baseball, softball, men’s and women’s soccer, and women’s lacrosse programs will benefit the most. The space will include batting cages, divided curtains to split the facility into small workout spaces, and ample room for Liberty’s strength and conditioning teams to work with student-athletes. The surface will not be lined for a single

sport, but rather will have tick marks on the turf resulting in great flexibility when moving from one sport’s practice session to another. The facility will also have a lobby, public restrooms, and storage space. To create easier access to the facility for Liberty’s student-athletes, Liberty plans to construct a walking bridge from the Bailey Parking Lot at the Liberty Baseball Stadium over Regents Parkway.

21 eserved.

In May, Liberty submitted construction plans to the City of Lynchburg to build the 75,000-squarefoot Liberty Multipurpose Center that will open during the summer of 2022. The facility will be constructed directly beside the recently opened Liberty Indoor Tennis Center. “The Liberty Multipurpose Center will serve a variety of campus programming needs, including Athletics, Club Sports, intramural sports, and summer camps,” Director of Athletics

For the fourth year in a row, Liberty University online student William Byron drove in the 600 Miles of Remembrance at Charlotte Motor Speedway in honor of a fallen service member with Liberty ties. On race day, May 30, he sported the name of Staff Sgt. Cole Condiff on the windshield of his No. 24 Liberty University Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 1LE.

“It’s an honor to have Staff Sgt. Cole Condiff ’s name on our car in Charlotte,” said Byron. “He made the ultimate sacrifice for our country, and this is the least we can do to show our appreciation to him.” Condiff, an active duty combat controller with the U.S. Air Force’s 23rd special tactics squadron, 24th

special operations wing, was known as a devoted family man with deeply rooted beliefs who dedicated himself to God, patriotic freedom, and peace. Through his military training, Condiff acquired skills as an air traffic controller, joint terminal attack controller, static line jump master, military freefall parachutist, and combat scuba diver. He was awarded the Air Force Achievement Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal with Combat Device, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Army Achievement Medal, and an Oak Leaf Cluster. Condiff enrolled in Liberty’s online programs in the spring of 2019 in pursuit of a B.S. in History. Byron finished the race in fourth and, as of press time, was ranked 4th in the NASCAR Cup Series driver points standings this season.

Virtual options add another dimension to campus tours Liberty University’s growing campus is a sight to behold, and the Visitors Center has made it possible for anyone in the world to virtually experience the latest updates on Liberty Mountain before stepping foot on the grounds. While in-person tours are still regularly offered, potential students can now get a taste of campus before they arrive by taking virtual tours online and even in virtual reality. Through 360-degree views, guests can roam through the Food Court at Reber-Thomas (Liberty’s main dining hall), the Jerry Falwell Library, athletics facilities, residence halls, and more. Between December 2017 and April

2021, there have been over 215,500 visitors to Liberty’s virtual tours, representing 176 different countries. The average visit lasts about nine minutes. The remote touring options as well as live video appointments with admissions counselors became a vital part of the Resident Enrollment team’s work last year with the onset of COVID-19 and the lockdowns that followed. Whereas other universities were forced to hurriedly put together online options for engaging with prospective students, Liberty was already well prepared. In-person campus tours are led by Liberty students almost every day of the week and show guests model

dorm rooms, classrooms, athletics and recreational facilities, and dining venues. To learn more, visit Liberty.edu/ TourLU, call (434) 582-2064, or email VisitorsCenter@Liberty.edu. Prospective students can also participate in College for a Weekend (CFAW), which allows high school students to spend three days testdriving life as a Liberty student by attending classes, eating at dining locations, and exploring campus. The next four CFAW events will be held on Sept. 16-18, 2021; Oct. 28-30, 2021; Feb. 17-19, 2022; and April 7-9, 2022. Register online at Liberty.edu/CFAW.

FAITH IN FOCUS

‘A vision unfolding in real time’ BY R I T C H I E M C K AY | Head Men’s Basketball Coach One of my mentors once said that it is not truth that transforms us, it is trusted truth that transforms. Meaning you can know something, but unless you truly trust it, and truly believe it, it will not change you. I often think we can lose sight of what is important, and that statement reminds me of the reason I pursue a relationship with Jesus, the reason I became a coach, and the reason I am so thankful and blessed to be serving here at Liberty today. I am often asked why I left Liberty the first time. Most people know I coached at Liberty for two seasons from 2007-09 before leaving to join a longtime friend of mine, Coach Tony Bennett, at the University of Virginia. My response is always the same: I never left Liberty for what it was not; I left to go where we, my wife Julie and I, felt God leading us, and at that time it was to serve alongside a friend. So my family and I made the hard decision to leave a place we dearly loved and move up the road to Charlottesville. While I absolutely enjoyed my time and experiences at UVA, I often missed some of the unique and special things that a private Christian school offered. I missed going to Convocation and being inspired by a generation worshipping together so freely. I missed 20,000 fans quietly pausing to pray before a football game. I missed players telling me how certain professors they sat under influenced the way they viewed the Gospel. And I missed walking through campus and seeing students in the Word studying and praying together. This

is not to say that similar things do not or cannot occur on other campuses, but the overflow of these things on campus was (and is) my experience at Liberty! Although I longed to be a part of that type of environment again, I never thought

"... we are seeing the abundant blessings of God poured out on our students, our faculty, our staff, our campus, and our athletic teams, and we are seeing Dr. Falwell’s vision unfolding in real time." R I T C H I E M C K AY

I would have a chance to return to LU. Yet I have often found that the Lord has a sense of humor in the direction He allows our lives to go or where He takes us. There is a song titled “Million Little Miracles” that Maverick City and Elevation Worship collaborated on that starts off by saying, “All my life I’ve been carried by grace … .” That has certainly been my sentiment throughout my coaching journey. The opportunity that I was granted to return to Liberty in 2015

was just another example of God’s grace — you could even say another one of His miracles. This place is special. Perfect? Of course not. After all, its inhabitants are human. But 50 years ago, God led Dr. Jerry Falwell to found this university, and he did it under the mantra that “if it is Christian, it ought to be better.” And now, 50 years later, we are seeing the abundant blessings of God poured out on our students, our faculty, our staff, our campus, and our athletic teams, and we are seeing Dr. Falwell’s vision unfolding in real time. Liberty is such a unique environment because we are afforded the privilege — and even driven — to live out our daily walk with Christ. Thankfully God saw and knew the desires of my heart and my call to be a transformational coach. And by His grace, He led me back here to Liberty where I can freely live out the desires and calling He has given me. Ritchie McKay has served as the Flames’ head coach for eight seasons. This year, after leading the team to a 23-6 record and their third straight berth into the NCAA Tournament, he was named ASUN Coach of the Year for the second consecutive season. McKay also won Big South Coach of the Year honors in 2016. He received the Jim Phelan Award in 2019, given annually to the most outstanding men’s basketball head coach among NCAA Division I teams. In April, McKay’s contract was extended through the 2028 season.

C HASE GYLE S

Students enjoy a sunset view of campus from the LU Monogram on Liberty Mountain.

Family Blessings

GENEROSITY OF LU’S FOUNDER COMES FULL CIRCLE AS LAST OF 8 SIBLINGS GRADUATES FROM LIBERTY BY TED ALLEN

The Apon family, with mother Lori (center) surrounded by her eight children and nine of her grandchildren.

The Apon family circle has had Liberty University at its epicenter for the past 15 years, since founder Dr. Jerry Falwell vowed to grant all eight of Bobby and Lori Apon’s children a Christian education on its grounds. Bobby Apon, a founding member of the contemporary Christian band NewSong, committed suicide in 1999. Lori still remembers the overwhelming sense of gratitude she felt after receiving a call from their pastor, Johnny Hunt, of First Baptist Church Woodstock, Ga., also a member of Liberty’s Board of Trustees, with the news of Falwell’s gracious offer of full-tuition scholarships for all of her children. “As a young widow with eight children, I knew God would be faithful to our family but had no idea how,” Lori Apon said. “It was a ‘wow’ moment, almost too good to be true.” Less than a year after Dr. Falwell made that generous pledge — while the oldest Apon child, Abi Fasciano (’10), was finishing her freshman year at Liberty — he passed away on May 15, 2007. “Nothing was in writing confirming this incredible gift; however, Liberty University stood by Dr. Falwell’s verbal word, and our lives have been deeply impacted because of the opportunity to attend this great school,” Lori said. She was sad that Dr. Falwell could not

be on hand to see her youngest son, Micah — who was 13 months old when his father died — graduate magna cum laude with a B.S. in Strategic Communication in May. “I wish he were here so we could tell

“Liberty University stood by Dr. Falwell’s verbal word, and our lives have been deeply impacted because of the opportunity to attend this great school.” LORI APON him thank you,” Lori said. “Liberty was a great place to send them. I knew they were going to receive biblically sound teaching and were going to have friends who were fellow believers. It was a place I could trust, and it’s proven to be that.” Micah Apon will return to the Atlanta area to work as a creative event specialist with Techtronic Industries. He will miss the friendships he developed on campus and on Thomas Road Baptist Church’s young adults ministry team.

Micah Apon with his mother, Lori, at his degree presentation ceremony at Williams Stadium on May 11. He was the last of eight siblings to graduate after receiving full-tuition scholarships granted by Liberty University founder Dr. Jerry Falwell.

“The community that Liberty brings here, it attracts incredible people,” Micah said. “I have some of the best friends, I’ve had some of the best mentors, and I’ve had some of the best professors. So that’s helped me to learn and grow into a better man.” His siblings have also been blessed by mentors and father figures at Liberty. For Christieanna Apon (’16), it was Liberty Track & Field Assistant Coach Andrew “Pete” McFadden. For Brandon Apon (’13, ’15), it was former Flames Football Strength & Conditioning Director Bill Gillespie and Offensive Coordinator Aaron Stamn, who exhorted him as he worked his way up from a walk-on to a team captain and record-setting tight end by his senior season. The siblings said Liberty has been a pivotal launching pad for them to thrive in their post-graduation careers — from Abi, who with husband Nick Fasciano (’09) is raising five sons while investing in their church and community in North Carolina; to Evan, who traveled around the country sharing the love and hope of Jesus Christ and recruiting students to Liberty as part of its Soar Dunk Team and is now a community leader for the Maple Street Biscuit Company in Duluth, Ga.; to Kayla Whittinghill (’11) who, with her husband, Ben, is a church planter blessed with

ALUMNI

Abi (Apon) Fasciano (’10), the first of the eight siblings to attend Liberty, stands with Dr. Jerry Falwell.

Brandon Apon (’13, ’15) played tight end for the Flames.

six children in Brattleboro, Vt.; to Amy Carroll (’18), a flight attendant with Delta, and her husband, Joey (’18), a traveling nurse currently based in Washington, D.C.; to Christieanna, an insurance agent in Denver; to Isaac (’16), director of social media and creative services for Liberty Athletics; and to Brandon, General Manager at Mall of Georgia Mazda in Buford, Ga. Brandon Apon is now giving back to his alma mater as a member of the School of

Christieanna Apon (’16) was mentored by Lady Flames Track & Field Assistant Coach Andrew ‘Pete’ McFadden.

Business Advisory Board. “How do you ever repay something like that?” he said of Liberty’s generosity. “That’s why each of us have felt compelled to give back — not guilted to, but we don’t take it for granted.” Lori Apon has sent out all of her children to go “Light their World,” in reference to a song by NewSong. Drawing inspiration from biblical passages such as Isaiah 1:17, James 1:27, and Psalm 68:5, which refer to God as the “father of the fatherless”

OCT. 8-9

DON’T

OUR CHANCE M I SS Y TO

FAN THE FLAMES AT

Evan Apon was a member of Liberty's Soar Dunk ministry team.

and “protector of widows,” she serves as Executive Director of Perspective Ministries, a nonprofit she founded in 2016 to meet the practical, emotional, and spiritual needs of widows and their children across the United States. “The greatest part of this story is that it brings hope to other widows and fatherless children,” Lori Apon said. “May the Lord continue to keep His hand on Liberty University for its kindness to the fatherless.”

CLASS NOTES SHARE

YOUR

NEWS AT L I B E R T Y. E D U / C L A S S N OT E S Connect with fellow alumni, enjoy fun for the whole family, and support your Liberty Flames this October.

Share your accomplishments, career advancements, family news, celebrations, and other life events. They could be published in the Liberty Journal! (800) 628-7973 | alumni@liberty.edu

MEMORIES & A MISSION Liberty’s pioneers return to campus for 50-year reunion

ANDR E W SNYDE R

BY LOGAN SMITH

When Ronnie Riggins, of Georgia, first heard about Lynchburg Baptist College (now Liberty University) in the spring of 1971, there were no state-of-the-art facilities decorating a 7,000-acre campus, no nationally ranked sports teams or hundreds of unique academic programs. Just a church, a preacher, and a bold vision to change the world. As a high school senior and new believer, Riggins took a leap of faith and enrolled in this new college being established by Dr. Jerry Falwell in Lynchburg, Va., that fall. Riggins, along with the 153 other students in Liberty’s first year, constantly heard Falwell describe his vision of constructing a world-class Christian institution that would send out thousands of evangelical students to impact the world for Christ. But even they, the bricklayers of Falwell’s dream, said they didn’t have the foresight that he did.

“It’s overwhelming. I can’t even put it into words,” said Riggins on a recent tour of campus. “When I come to Liberty 50 years later and see what God has done here, it is absolutely phenomenal.” Riggins, who has faithfully led a church in New Cumberland, Pa., for 46 years, gathered with other members of Liberty’s first class in April for a 50-year reunion, coordinated by his classmates and supported in part by Liberty’s Office of Alumni Relations. Liberty’s official 50th Anniversary celebration kicks off this fall. These alumni, many who had not been on campus for several years and some who had not returned since graduation, reunited with old friends at Thomas Road Baptist Church’s Bruner Hall, singing hymns led by former worship leader Robbie Hiner (who attended LBC in 1972), fellowshipping over dinner, and reminiscing about their years as

Liberty’s pioneers. The weekend also included a two-hour campus tour. “It’s amazing how God took Dr. Falwell and did something beyond what any of us saw,” said Georgia native Stan Berrong. “We were here in 1971 when there was nothing here. It’s been a joy to get together with those who were here in the early days. Now to see what this university has become, it’s a blessing. It’s a blessing to know that we were here during those beginning days.” Now, the school has “grown into miles and miles of miracles,” he added. “It’s hard to wrap your mind around.” The Rev. Jonathan Falwell, son of Liberty’s founder and senior pastor at TRBC, who was recently announced as Liberty’s new campus pastor, spoke at the event, reaffirming the promise that his father made years before: Liberty will never fall prey to the

ALUMNI

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AND R EW SNYD ER K J JU GAR

TOP LEFT: Liberty’s first students marvel at the new Liberty Arena, which opened last fall and houses the men’s and women’s basketball and the women’s volleyball teams. ABOVE: Members of Liberty’s first class in 1971 pose with university co-founder Elmer Towns at the 50th reunion dinner.

whims of culture and become a secular, liberal institution. “I just want you to know that the Lynchburg Baptist College, the Liberty that you showed up at 50 years ago, is the same Liberty,” Jonathan Falwell said. “… Until my dying breath, I will do everything I possibly can to make

sure this place stays exactly what God intended for it to be. I will be there fighting every step of the way.” Riggins shared his excitement for the growth in both numbers and campus structures, but most importantly the fulfillment of the vision. “It’s thrilling to come here on campus

and see so many young people who are gifted, talented, and smart in so many areas. God’s hand is on this place, and there will be thousands — maybe millions — of people in heaven because of Liberty University and the vision that started in one man who surrendered to the call of God in his life.”

50 Years of Training Champions for Christ C O M M E M O R AT I V E B O O K TH I S I S A S T O RY O F PR AYER S A N S WERED, MI R A C LE S WI T N E S S ED, A N D D RE A M S RE A LI Z ED. TH I S I S TH E S T O RY O F

PRE-ORDER YOUR COPY

Preorder your copy today at Liberty.edu/50thBook

MINISTRY LEADER IS ON MISSION ACROSS THE GLOBE, SUPPORTING PERSECUTED CHRISTIANS As the president of Alpha Ministries, based in Lynchburg, Va., and a global speaker for Voice of the Martyrs, Brother Bennie (’11) has made it his life’s mission to empower persecuted Christians around the world. However, it wasn’t until God answered his prayers to have a child and until he responded to a letter from Liberty University founder Dr. Jerry Falwell that he saw this path for his life. Bennie’s father, the late Pastor Mathews Cherian, founded Alpha Ministries in 1963 in his home region of India that was only 1% Christian. His father didn’t have much support, financially or otherwise, for his church planting efforts. The family of eight shared two 10-by-10 rooms. “My father lived by faith without support from family or any affiliation,” Bennie said. “It was a harsh life for us. Most days there were five hungry boys, and neighbors mocked our religion and condition.” Growing up, Bennie didn’t have an interest in evangelism or joining his father’s ministry. Citing the American Dream, Bennie moved to New York to begin a career in healthcare and soon married his wife, Lina. They sought to begin their own family in America but were unable to conceive. They visited specialists and still hadn’t found their answer until they walked into church one Sunday and heard a sermon on Matthew leaving his work as a tax collector to follow Christ. “That day I said, ‘God, my mom always wanted me to serve (you) and I’ve been putting it off, but it’s not my will but yours that will be done, and I am going to serve you,’” Bennie said. “I asked my wife if she’d be willing to leave everything to serve God, and she said, ‘I’ll do anything if

God blesses us with a child.’” The following year, Lina gave birth. They named their daughter Faith-Hannah, after Hannah in the Bible who prayed and promised to devote her life to God if He gave her a child. The couple went on to have two more children, Ben-Israel and Joy-Ruth. One day Bennie received a letter from Dr. Falwell offering a scholarship for anyone willing to move to Lynchburg. “In America, nothing is free. Everything has a catch to it. But there was no catch to this,” Bennie laughed. “I prayed and saw it as God’s providence, so I shared it with my wife, and she didn’t hesitate to say, ‘Let’s go,’ so we moved to Lynchburg in 1995.” Bennie would go on to study in what is now known as the John W. Rawlings School of Divinity, coming under the mentorship of the late Dr. Harold Willmington. He studied at Liberty for a year and a half before he became heavily involved in his father’s ministry and eventually completed his biblical studies degree through Liberty’s online program. Even though he didn’t spend much time on campus, Bennie said the relationships he built there have helped shape his ongoing ministry.

“(Studying at Liberty) was the first time I learned how to investigate the Word of God and glean from it,” he said. “I was inspired to study more, through (Liberty co-founder) Dr. Elmer Towns’ books. And we translated a lot of teaching material of Dr. Ed Hindson for our Bible Institute training. God opened a new world of prayer, church planting, and evangelism through my studies. That time of learning has been engraved in my heart because God opened doors for this big investment in my life. And now that investment has multiplied a thousand-fold through my conversations with others.” “I am living in the shadow of Liberty Mountain because of Dr. Falwell,” he added. “Dr. Falwell’s acceptance and warmth toward servants of God was remarkable. Ever since I came here, I have been blessed with the greatest privilege to go around the world and strengthen the hands of those who are being persecuted for the Gospel.” Since its founding, Alpha Ministries has trained 47,262 leaders across Asia and Africa, distributed 500,000 Bibles, dug 93 wells that provide clean water to 4,600 families, and built 155 prayer centers where over 30,000 believers worship. During the pandemic, they have also supported 29,000 families in Burma, Bangladesh, Nepal, and beyond with relief kits. Liberty has partnered with Alpha Ministries for overseas trips, most recently in 2015 with a medical trip to South Asia. The hardships that Bennie’s father faced in the mission field and Bennie’s own path to ministry are documented in his book, “My Father’s Business,” available on alphaministries.com. (Members of the Liberty family can use coupon code LU1971.)

LEFT: Bennie with a group of Liberty students on a medical trip to South Asia in 2015; RIGHT: Bennie and his family at his graduation ceremony in 2011 at Thomas Road Baptist Church

ALUMNI

A Great ADVENTURE

CAMP DIRECTOR LEADS MISSION TO IMPACT BAHAMAS’ YOUTH What began as an early-morning revelation for Liberty University alumnus Richard Albury (’86, ’95) has developed over the years into Camp Bahamas, one of the largest Christian youth camps in the Caribbean. The interwoven story of his alma mater and his island home actually began with his father, John David Albury, who was living in his native Bahamas when he saw Liberty founder Dr. Jerry Falwell preach on Thomas Road Baptist Church’s “Old-Time Gospel Hour” television program in the 1970s. Inspired by Falwell’s vision to build a worldclass university, his father sold much of his property and possessions and sacrificed his income to move his family to Lynchburg and become one of the first Bahamian students to attend Liberty. “My dad went to Liberty, I went to Liberty, my brothers went to Liberty, we met our wives there at Liberty, and our kids have gone to Liberty,” Richard Albury said. “Liberty is a part of who we are.” Beginning as a high school student at what is now Liberty Christian Academy, Albury went on to study business administration at Liberty with a minor in psychology. After graduation he began a career in the business world in the Bahamas. However, in 1993, he began to feel called into youth ministry — and God made it clear that He had a bigger plan for him. “God woke me up in my apartment and started to tug at my heart about different things going on in our country;

I saw a very big disconnect between our youth culture and the Church,” Albury said. “I had never been to camp, I had never really seen a camp, and I wasn’t really a youth group kind of kid who got plugged in anywhere. But God showed me exactly what I was supposed to do.” Albury returned to Liberty and spent two years in seminary, seizing every opportunity and resource to learn more about youth ministry. In 1999, after two years of raising funds and serving as a youth pastor, Albury and his wife, Andrea, moved back to the Bahamas, to the island of Spanish Wells, to start Camp Bahamas. The youth camp, now located on the island of Eleuthera, has athletics facilities with adventure sports and community outreach events that are unlike anything else in the country to this day. The 23-acre facility has the only indoor gymnasium on the island and can host groups of up to 150. The Bahamas is home to roughly 400,000 people, with a large population — near 40 percent — under the age of 25, Albury said. “Our desire is to see this country change through the youth, and the only way that is going to work is if the youth have a different mindset, believe differently, and behave differently,” he said. “Our goal is to touch the youth culture, let them know what Christianity really is, and show them who Jesus is.” The camp’s purpose statement, which comes from I Peter 1:3, is “Where the youth of today find HOPE for tomorrow.” The camp primarily operates eight-

week summer programs, in which over 600 youth experience this life-changing ministry, but is open for year-round ministry. Camp Bahamas also welcomes youth for a popular New Year’s “CBExit” program and hosts missions trips, school trips, and church retreats throughout the year. In the fall of 2019, the camp played an important role in serving victims of Hurricane Dorian, which caused devastation throughout the northernmost islands of Grand Bahama and Abaco. Liberty helped support the camp’s efforts with a $25,000 donation and sent a team through LU Send Now, the university’s quick response initiative. “Liberty didn’t have to send anybody; they didn’t have to do anything. But they chose to take the time and help the Bahamas,” Albury said. “It helped the former counselors and campers who currently go to Liberty to understand that Liberty’s heart is about the students and serving others, and I think it put a face to the heart of service at Liberty.” For more information, visit CampBahamas.com or follow it on social media @campbahamas. Donation s to the 501(c)(3) organization are tax-d eductible.

from left The Albury family, , Richard, Ella sa, Jes to right: and Rocco Andrea, Mia, Alexa,

A LIFE WITH PURPOSE

Pittsburgh pastor and LU alumnus shares son’s journey with chronic illness and his remarkable example of living for the Lord

Randy and Stacy Gestrich

Mike Gestrich (’82) arrived at Liberty Baptist College in 1978. The founder, Dr. Jerry Falwell, was leading a church planting effort across the country and urged his students to join. When Gestrich graduated, he heeded that call and landed in Pittsburgh, Pa. With no income, living in a dilapidated home without utilities, “I began doing what Dr. Falwell told me to do,” he said — knocking on doors and sharing the Gospel. He visited the homeless and the poor. With his wife, Carol, he planted a church at age 23, and they have watched God grow the ministry over 38 years. The Log Church is now in the midst of a major building project that will overlook that same small shack where it all began. His own story is an amazing one: a man who endured child abuse, grew up in foster care, and now shares the love of his Heavenly Father. But Pastor Mike will tell you that his story is not nearly as amazing as the one God wrote through the life of his youngest child, Randy. At age 15, Randy Gestrich was dying from a rare form of salivary gland cancer. Doctors said it was incurable. “They had him in a ward to die,” Pastor Mike said, “but I told them, ‘I believe God has a bigger purpose. Just give him to me.’” He took his teenage son to the family’s favorite vacation spot in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., and there, on the beach, he prayed over him, asking that Randy’s wish to live longer, and even someday marry, would happen. He then searched across the country and found a rare, extreme radiation treatment in Seattle and took Randy there. Doctors did not know if he would live through the treatment, which involved 70 percent more radiation than normal cancer patients. But a miracle followed. To the surprise of all his doctors, Randy survived — and lived to adulthood. He followed in his father’s footsteps (and three of his siblings’) to

Liberty in 2009. “He wanted to go to college. But I knew he would not be able to pass any of his classes because of radiation damage to his brain,” Pastor Mike said. “I never told anyone, but I only sent him to Liberty so he could be around the godly influence of those at the school, people to encourage him … because I knew he was going to die. The presence, the power of God is there. It was the greatest experience of his life — he failed everything, but I didn’t care.” The complications of the treatment "Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything."

JAMES 1:2-4 lingered, and he had to leave Liberty after one year. But not only did Randy get to experience college — something his family thought he’d never do — his father’s prayers on that beach years earlier also came true. He met the love of his life there, Stacy, and they married four years ago. Although Randy’s time at Liberty was brief, he still left with a renewed purpose to live his life for the Lord. Like his dad, he wanted to shine the light — and he did every day. “Randy lived an extraordinary life of dedication to the Lord during these years of suffering,” his father said. “He lived each day wanting to help, reaching out. He used to say that if he didn’t help someone or encourage someone each day, it was just a waste of a day.” Randy especially wanted to minister to the sick like him. He launched an “Unmasked Survivor” YouTube series

where he shared advice for caregivers and encouragement for the chronically ill. He eventually lost mobility and had to use a wheelchair but was still determined to work and not go on disability, so he made crafts to sell online and learned how to earn income off rental property he managed. He donated much of the proceeds to his church and to families in need. Randy did have some seasons of improvement in his health. Determined to graduate with his associate’s degree, he enrolled in community college and earned straight A’s for a couple semesters, making the Dean’s List. However, about two years ago, he had a major setback and his body did not respond to any treatments. “He had radiation fibrosis, and it was like the radiation came back to kill him, like a spider web strangling his body inside,” Pastor Mike said. Randy was living with a feeding tube and was eventually placed on oxygen. But his witness didn’t stop. Church members and friends would come to check on him, only to leave with conviction in their own hearts after powerful conversations with Randy. He still handled business calls and told suppliers and customers about Jesus at every chance. By June 2020, Randy was on hospice care at home. He longed for Heaven, but his father challenged him with a “chore list” — everything he desired to do before he could go. A few months later, Randy was close to finishing the list, which included the names of many people he wanted to share the Gospel with and minister to, and tasks like buying Christmas presents, taking a final family photograph, getting a tattoo of James 1:2-4, and returning to the same beach where he thought he was ready to die 14 years before. That’s where he wanted to live out his final days with his family by his side. They went there in October. Unable to fly commercial, Randy’s brother Bill, a pilot, flew him and their father in a singleengine plane. “We called it ‘Randy’s Last Adventure,’” Pastor Mike said. Randy’s last chore was to buy his wife some jewelry, so they took him to a store at the beach. Unfortunately, it had just closed for the night, but they pleaded with the owner to open. “Randy could barely talk,” Pastor Mike said, “but he told the owner, ‘I’m going home to die right now’ and,

IN MEMORIAM L I B E R T Y FA M I LY: KEELAN O'NEAL BANNER, 21, of Thomasville, N.C., died on March 6. During a spring Convocation, Liberty University presented a posthumous degree to his family. He was a residential student studying business and human resources. DR. MONTY CHARLES KESTER, 81, of Lynchburg, Va., died on April 25. He was a math professor at Liberty and retired in 2014 after 26 years of faithful service. SEAN MATTHEW O'HARE, 20, of Port Republic, Va., died April 25. He received a posthumous Bachelor of Science in Aeronautics: Military and was a member of the United States Air Force ROTC program.

when the man looked horrified, Randy told him he was a Christian and didn’t have any fear; he told him to trust in Jesus. With his last breaths, he was there sharing the Gospel.” A couple days later, with barely a whisper, Randy spoke his last words: “Dad, I finished all my chores.” Randy Gestrich died on Oct. 24, 2020, just before the sun rose over the ocean waves crashing on the shore outside his window. He was 29. Mike Gestrich said Randy had asked him to use his story to help bring people to Christ. So when the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette heard about this “last adventure” and told him they normally only write about the deaths of famous people but were so touched by Randy’s story, Pastor Mike proudly shared about his son and his relationship with Christ. The headline read: “Randy Gestrich: A short life full of compassion.” Pastor Mike also asked the Liberty Journal to share Randy’s story with students and the entire Liberty family. He wanted them to know that his son, who once walked the same campus they have walked, learned early how to commit himself wholeheartedly to God’s work. He said Randy would tell them today that a life lived sold out for God is a rewarding one, even amid the pain and trials.

Randy Gestrich, left, with his father, Mike, and brother, Bill

Thank you, Randy, for your example of living life to the fullest as a true Champion for Christ. Hear Pastor Mike share more about Randy’s story at Liberty.edu/Journal.

DR. JUDITH REISMAN, PH.D., 85, died on April 9. She was a visiting professor and research professor who worked with Liberty University School of Law from 2011-19 and was serving with the School of Behavioral Sciences until her passing. As an author and child advocate, Reisman focused much of her work on fighting pornography as a pandemic and exposing eugenicist Dr. Alfred C. Kinsey’s fraudulent research. She was the founder and director of The Reisman Institute, which is dedicated to educating the public about the dangers children face from the onslaught of explicit sexuality and sexual exploitation.

ALUMNI: ’98 GRAHAM HARRISON of Concord, N.C., died May 24. He followed the Lord’s calling to become a business entrepreneur and minister to his employees, customers, and community. ’84 KENNETH HIPSLEY of Green Cove Springs, Fla., died March 1. He served as a children’s pastor for more than 44 years. ’17, ’21 FLOYD HUDSON SR. of Copperas Cove, Texas, died Jan. 28. He is a graduate of the John W. Rawlings School of Divinity with a Bachelor of Science and Master of Divinity. ’16, ’20 JIMMY LANG of Midland, Mich., died Feb. 22. He was the pastor of Bethel Brethren for 11 years. He loved spending time with his family doing outdoor activities, including fishing, camping, and hiking. ’16, JOSEPH MESITE III of Oxford, Mass., died April 3. Known as “Joes,” he will be remembered as “The Adventurer.” He had a passion for and was experienced in paramotoring, hot air ballooning, mountain climbing, hiking, snowboarding, longboarding, and searching for airplane wrecks in nature.

The families of the following graduates from the Classes of 2020 and 2021 chose to have their loved ones recognized with posthumous degrees either in person or virtually during the 48th Commencement. Sarah Brungard, Lynchburg, Va., Bachelor of Science: Interdisciplinary Studies Eric Catron, Kokomo, Ind., Master of Divinity: Chaplaincy James Cook, Sullivan, Mont., Bachelor of Science: Law and Policy: Pre-Law Robbin Crawford, Huntington, Texas, Master of Science: Audit & Financial Reporting Aaron Dean, Moneta, Va., Associate of Arts: Interdisciplinary Studies Joshua Fuqua, Danville, Va., Executive Certificate in Curriculum & Instruction Raphael Happy-Ikenwilo, Corona, Calif., Bachelor of Science: Interdisciplinary Studies Billy Jaynes, Russellville, Tenn., Master of Arts: Christian Apologetics Chris Marchand, Colorado Springs, Colo., Executive Certificate in Instructional Design and Technology Randy McRae, Fountain Inn, S.C., Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling Cynthia Poteet, Knoxville, Tenn., Bachelor of Science: Interdisciplinary Studies Demetris Riddles, Swainsboro, Ga., Doctor of Education: Curriculum & Instruction William Shields, Martinsville, Va., Bachelor of Science: Psychology Kristin Short, Elkins, W. Va., Master of Arts: Professional Counseling Danny Watkins, Bellville, Texas, Bachelor of Science: Fire Administration Lee Web, Salisbury, Md., Doctor of Philosophy in Theology and Apologetics Kimberly Whitehead, Quinton, Va., Bachelor of Science: Criminal Justice Lawanda Williams, Providence Forge, Va., Master of Divinity

BREAM FAMILY LEAVES LASTING IMPRINT ON LIBERTY BASEBALL R OSS KOH L

(Left to right) Sid, Dave, Leroy, and Sheldon Bream

It was a family reunion of epic proportions on May 8 at the Liberty Baseball Stadium when more than 30 members of the Bream family, including 19 Liberty University graduates or current students, gathered for the dedication of two areas within the facility before the second game of the Flames’ final home series. “We’ve had 19 Breams that have come through Liberty, and this has been a place that has grown us physically but at the same time grown us spiritually for the best,” said former Major League Baseball first baseman Sid Bream, the first family member to attend Liberty, from 1978-81.

Five others have played baseball for the Flames, and one played for the women’s basketball and volleyball teams. The family was honored for its legacy gifts with the naming of the Leroy G. Bream Reception Area in the entrance to the Flames coaches’ offices and the Sid Bream Radio Booth in the stadium press box. The Bream family’s relationship with Liberty started when Leroy Bream responded to a request from Liberty’s founder, Dr. Jerry Falwell, for the names of outstanding Christian athletes who might be interested in attending Liberty.

“Uncle Leroy” wrote a recommendation letter to Dr. Falwell regarding his nephew, Sid, and that letter was passed on to Al Worthington, Liberty’s founding baseball coach, who contacted local scouts in Pennsylvania. A scholarship offer was extended without even having seen Bream play in person, but the scouting reports proved to be true as Sid Bream went on to set numerous Liberty Baseball offensive records. He was selected by the Los Angeles Dodgers in the second round of the 1981 Major League Baseball Draft and thrived over an 11-year career, primarily with the Pittsburgh Pirates and Atlanta Braves. “It has been a blessing to be able to stay in touch with Liberty and to see the growth of all that has taken place,” Sid Bream said. “To go from the days of meeting in a tent to where it is today, it is unbelievable how God has been faithful to this place, and I just continue to pray that God will keep His hand on it and continue to change lives through this school.”

PARKING GARAGE NAMED FOR AREA BUSINESS OWNERS

graduated in 2016. They both play integral roles in the family business, along with their brother, Chandler. The family shares a rich and successful history of operating what will soon be six senior living communities in Central Virginia. Rooted in faith, the company’s commitment to excellence and the care of loved ones has transformed the landscape of senior care in the greater Lynchburg area. (Left to right) Chandler, Chris, Caitlyn, Vickie, and Brian Runk

EL LIE RIC HARDSON

In March, Liberty University officially named its new parking garage on Campus East the Runk & Pratt Garage, recognizing the owners of Runk & Pratt Senior Living Communities for being partners in advancing the university’s mission. Vickie Runk (’89), co-founder with her husband, Brian (’88), called it an honor to be able to support their alma mater through their work. “Having gone to Liberty back in the 1980s, I never would have thought that I would someday see my name here on a building,” Vickie Runk said. “But that really isn’t what it is about. It’s more about investing in young people to go out and to spread the Gospel and make a difference in whatever they are doing. No matter what field they choose, they can be a Champion for Christ.” The family’s ties to Liberty actually go back to her father, Dr. Norman Pratt, who attended seminary and worked with Liberty founder Dr. Jerry Falwell in the university’s related ministries. Now, the family has celebrated its third generation of Liberty graduates; the Runks’ son Chris graduated in 2013 and their daughter, Caitlyn,

Vickie Runk studied psychology at Liberty, and when she began her career in social work, she found that she had a fondness for caring for her elderly clients and wished she could do more to assure their health and happiness. She and Brian dreamed of starting a home for this underserved community. Her parents joined them on their mission to create loving, healthy environments in which seniors could thrive. The nine-story garage opened last fall. It especially benefits fans who attend events in both the Vines Center and the new Liberty Arena; from an elevator on the ground level, fans can exit to a covered walkway that connects directly to the pedestrian tunnel under U.S. 460, which empties next to both venues.

To learn more about naming opportunities and how to leave a legacy for a family member or loved one, please contact Dan Branda at (434) 592-3638 or email dwbranda@liberty.edu.

THE PRESIDENT’S CIRCLE 2021 This list recognizes donors from Jan.1-April 30, 2021. $1,000,000 - and above Individuals George Rawlings Charles R. Stone*

$100,000 - $499,999

Organizations BB&T Charitable Fund NAMB dba SEND Network

$50,000 - $99,999 Individuals Dale Miller* Richard F. Smith

$25,000 - $49,999

Individuals Adeeb F. Michahail Richard & Karin Osborne Organizations Permanens Capital

$10,000 - $24,999

Individuals Melvin W. Buster* Ralph & Joan Campbell Barry & Pam Clarkson Beatrice L. Dickinson* David & Kristi Dolan Watt & Jennifer Foster Reuben Gobezie Todd & Gillian Granger Reynold F. Keller Jon & Margie Lienemann Jimmy & Rhonda Thomas Organizations Beacon Credit Union Boxley Materials Company Cloudfit Software KMR Aviation Services, Inc. North American Mission Board SET, Inc. dba Caterpillar Clubhouse The Rosewood Providential Fund Van Wagner Sports & Entertainment, LLC

$5,000 - $9,999

Individuals Daniel Barbir Tony & Kellie Bartlett Drew & Mary-Elizabeth Ellenburg Ritchie & Julie McKay Jim & Patsy Sanders

Tim & Martha Stoudnour Roy Unsin* Scott & Shelly Wolf Organizations Energy & Automation Hurt & Proffitt, Inc. Musser Lumber Company, Inc. Patel & Dalrymple, PLLC ServPro Of Lynchburg/Bedford & Campbell County The Boyd & Joan Kelley Charitable Foundation The Ellenburg Chair Co., Inc.

$2,500 - $4,999

Individuals David & Kari Adams Carla Allen Jay & Mary Bachar Billy & Jane Belcher Andy & Linda Bowling Randy & Cynthia Brackett Eldon & Dixie Brammer David & Pamela Brown Bryce & Lori Brumm Cole Candler Janine Crowe Chris & Cindy Cruz Bob & Sandra Day Richard Eng Greg Fontaine Christopher Gentry Bob & Tracey Good Congressman Bob Goodlatte Mervyn L. Gray Joel & Theresa Hesch Rodney & Melissa Hizy Rick & Debbie Huff Paul & Jacquelyn Johnson Kevin & Mary Jones John Jordan Brian Kirschner Phill & Deborah Kline Stewart Langley Stevie & Jessica Lloyd Steve & Kathy Lloyd Davance & Torrey Locklear Ian & Heather McCaw Jeff & Cindy McCaw Mike & Lisa Misjuns Stephen & Tricia Mock Rich Moore Gene & Joyce Myers Scott & Kelli Overton

Sean Owen James Pate John Petrozelli James Pittman Rachel Polley Robert & Deborah Ritz Mike & Kelli Rosas Michael Russo Gary & Traci Schmincke Troy & Hollie Schultz Jesse & Heather Stephens Doug & Amy Strohmeier Zach & Lisa Tran Carey Wrenn Organizations 701 Korean Church Capital Repair Services, LLC Chesapeake RV Solutions Environmental Options, Inc. G.F. Walls Agency, Inc Impact Living Services Law Office of Jesus Reyes, PLLC MH Masonry & Associates, Inc. Purple Princess Properties, Inc. ResCare, Inc. Sonny Merryman, Inc. Zaki Gordon Memorial Charitable Gift Fund

$1,000 - $2,499

Individuals Dr. & Mrs. William R. Armstrong Rodney & Marlee Beckom Al & Lisa Billingsly Lance & Kelly Bingham Keith & Kris Boan Veronica Bratton Bernadette E. Bream Vallejo Bullis* Elvin & Pam Burford John & Phyllis Carstens Ernest & Amber Carter Huyla Coker Barry & Melody Dahllof Mark L. D’Arezzo Rick & Angie DeBoard Doug & Julia Deming Doug & Sheila Diehl Thomas & Elizabeth DiPaolo Derek & Stacy Doss Lois Mae Duggan Olive M. Eckmann* Frances Eskridge Linda L. Farver

Chris & Pam Ficco Dennis & Sonya Fields Tina Friar Teresa George Karen Gilbert C. Haan Steven D. Hall Jan Halvorsen Gwenn Harth Calvin & Pam Hatchell Owen & Maryellen Heinrich* Gary Hingst Bernard Holder Daniel Hull Jay Todd Hunt Clovis Jackson Leslie L. Jacoby, Jr. Vicklon O. Jaynes Michael B. Keever Richard B. Kreider Louis & Joan LaMay Randy Lively Tom Lougheed Lance & Stephanie MacKenzie Brock & Ronda Malcolm Jon Manson James & Megan Mason Herbert E. Maxey, Jr. Kathy McCavanagh Mark D. McClure Mark G. Minar P.H. Mitchell, Jr. Doug & Debbie Monahan Mitch & Elizabeth Morrison Jeremy Nance Arthur Nicholson* Tamara Page Mike & Donalyn Parker Debra Patsel Gary G. Pearson Michael Phillips Shane Pierce Nick Reichenbach Karl C. Salz Bob & Pam Schmidt Mark Scott Archie & Carlita Smith Dave & Kim Smith Georgia Anne Snyder-Falkinham Todd & Rachelle Sorensen Jim & Michelle Sorenson Kathie Sprinkle Heather Stogsdill

Michael & Barbara Stone Brian & Amanda Summers Hendrick Tabue John & Anne Thompson Robin P. Vestal Deborah Walker Gene & Debbie Walker Lori Watkins Duke & Carlene Westover David & Debbie Wheeler Sonny & Sharon White Dr. Lian-Tuu & Mrs. Arlene Yeh Steve & Tracey Young Gary G. Zimmerman Organizations A.G. Jefferson Opticians Amherst Dry Cleaners, Inc. Bair of Virginia Bates Orthodontics BWX Technologies, Inc. C12 Virginia Blue Ridge, LLC Cardinal Environmental Consultants, LLC Costar Realty Cutz for Guys Gentle Shepherd Hospice, Inc. Glen’s Transmission and Automotive Lynchburg Ready Mix Concrete Co, Inc. MAC-A-B’s dba Curtains, Blinds & Bath Perimeter Roofing VA, LLC Powell’s Truck & Equipment, Inc. R. Coffee, Ltd. Shenandoah Valley Baptist Church Swift Creek Baptist WACH Marketing, Inc.

* Estate Gift If we have omitted, misspelled, or misplaced your name, please accept our apologies and notify our office by calling toll-free (866) 602-7983. For more information on planned giving to Liberty University, visit Liberty.edu/Giving or call (800) 543-5309.

Naming opportunities are still available for many areas of campus, from athletics and academic facilities to faculty support through endowed chairs and professorships. Named gifts can be made in a wide variety of levels and give donors the chance to place their name or the name of a loved one on a building, sporting venue, residence hall, classroom, faculty office, study area, and more. Visit Liberty.edu/Giving/Naming-Opportunities. If you have a specific idea, call Dan Branda at (434) 592-3638.

ELL IE RICH ARDSON