Couple Uses God's Money to Spread Gospel Through UM Students By Kathy Dean
Butch and Sharon Emmons love the theatre. When they attended their first theatre production at the University of Mobile nearly 20 years ago, they expected to see a good show. They saw something even better – a way to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ through students at the Baptistaffiliated university.
“Mr. and Mrs. Emmons have been a blessing to many of our students through their generosity. I admire the fact that, when they see a need, they are quick to respond,” Burnett said.
“We saw what these kids were doing and how they were promoting the gospel – not only in the United States, but all over the world as they travel,” said Butch Emmons.
The couple said their decision to invest financial resources they have spent a lifetime earning into students at the University of Mobile was easy – after all, it’s not their money.
It’s a mission and message the couple believes is so important that they established the Eileen J. and Sharon B. Emmons Performance Scholarship in 2019 for students in the performing arts. They also included the University of Mobile in their estate planning, bequeathing their house and property upon their deaths.
“Our money is not our money – it’s God’s money. We have only been given the opportunity to use it to further the gospel of Jesus Christ. When we saw how the students were being used by God, we decided this was where we wanted to invest,” said Butch.
Now, the Emmons continue that legacy with a gift of $100,000, adding to their endowed scholarship and supporting additional scholarships as lead sponsor of the 2021 University of Mobile Scholarship Banquet.
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UM President Lonnie Burnett said the impact the couple is making in the lives of students is immeasurable.
TORCHLIGHT | Spring 2022
“We wanted to make an impact and leave a legacy for all to come. These students may have a desire to come here, but not be able to afford it – but through scholarships, it is possible. Then they have the opportunity to leave and go out and spread the gospel of Christ.”
