FHU Faculty and Staff Recognized for Anniversary Years of Service

As students prepared for a new school year, FHU faculty and staff members gathered August 19 in Brown-Kopel’s Ayers Auditorium for the university’s traditional opening convocation. The event, held at the start of each semester, provides a time for administrators to share campus updates, introduce new employees and honor faculty and staff members marking significant service milestones.

In his opening remarks, President David R. Shannon reminded the group of their shared mission: helping students develop their God-given talents for His glory. “Let's be reminded of what we do,” Shannon said. “This mission reminds us who we are and what we do, and it sets our focus each day, steadily, in that direction.”

Shannon highlighted recent campus developments, such as summer youth camps, student research programs, advancement projects and more. Close to 3,000 young people benefited from FHU-hosted events this summer through Mid-South Youth Camp, Equip Ministry Camp and Horizons.

The ceremony also welcomed several new employees to the FHU family while also celebrating 35 individuals who reached milestone service anniversaries.

Those recognized for five years of service included Amanda Bretherick, Dr. Donnie DeBord, Rebecca Dorris, Andy Doss, Sarah Hibbett, Scott Kimpel, Vincent Meninno, Dr. Jana Meninno, Dr. Matt Sokoloski, Abby Stutts, Jess Trask, Brian Vaughn, Joe Wells and Lenora Williams.

Honored for 10 years of service were Chris Davis, Susan Kimpel, Dr. Stephen Marvin, Patricia Spears, Carrie Stapleton and Dr. Matt Vega.

(L to R) Dr. Jason Brashier, Dr. Derrick Spradlin, Dr. Jim Barr and A.B. White are recognized for 20 years of service to FHU.

Celebrating 15 years were Lee Barton, Dr. Doug Burleson, Dr. Jennifer Creecy, Dr. Justin Rogers, Jay Satterfield and Dr. Raven Wentworth.

Those marking 20 years of service included Dr. Jim Barr, Dr. Jason Brashier, Dr. Jim Gardner, T.J. Maddox, Dr. Derrick Spradlin and A.B. White.

Todd Humphry and Dr. Jenny Johnson were recognized for 25 years, while Kim Cook was honored for 30 years of dedication to the university.

Kim Cook is honored for 30 years of service to FHU.

In closing, President Shannon reflected on the spirit of community that makes FHU distinctive. “We cannot do what we do with just one or two people,” he said. “It takes all of us. I believe God has brought us together for a high purpose, allowing us to be part of this vital work.”