The fourth class of Baptist Children’s Homes University (BCHU) graduated October 13 at Mills Home in Thomasville.
The graduation ceremony was kicked off with comments by BCH COO Keith Henry as he welcomed this year’s graduates: Emily Adler, Jada Cable, Matt Chilson, Crystal Killian, Rebekah Reagan, and Drew Scott. The fourth cohort represents both wilderness camps, family foster care, Kennedy Home, and Broyhill Home.
BCH’s Bond Kiser shared a devotion focusing on the “Parable of the Talents,” emphasizing the necessity to be equipped and the importance of service.
BCHU is a leadership and talent management program covering eight core areas that challenge participants to reach their “next best.” Cohorts are made up of staff members who not only do their jobs, but look for ways to improve BCH’s overall “culture of excellence” in their areas and departments.
“Leadership is marked by persistence, patience, timing, and a great attitude,” BCH president/CEO Michael C. Blackwell said as he began his commencement address. “Your commitment to these ideas shines brightly.”
Blackwell affirmed graduates personally offering gifts to each one in the class. To Drew Scott, he gave the gift of consistency; to Emily
Adler, the gift of trustworthiness; to Crystal Killian, the gift of compassion; to Rebekah Reagan, the gift of humility; to Matt Chilson, the gift of integrity; and to Jada Cable, the gift of positivity.
“When I first met each of you at the beginning of this session,” Dr. Blackwell said, “I charged you with three things: be open to learn, be willing to participate, and be excited to implement. Look around, you have done just that, reaching this high point today.
All these months later, and through the challenges of a pandemic, I add these important words: live simply, love generously, care deeply, speak kindly, and leave the rest up to God.”
By Jim Edminson, Editor of Charity & Children