BPCU President’s Gala – Featuring Jay McSwain

September 26, 2025

Pictured: BPC Voices of Truth performing during the gala. From left to right: John Graham, Maggie Barlow, Kenan Strutchen, Macy McClintic, John Smith, Madelyn Parker, Jeremy Grey, Bethany Underwood, Cameron Taylor, and Lily Anderson.

MOUNT VERNON — On September 23, 2025, members of the community came together for the annual Brewton-Parker Christian University (BPCU) President’s Gala. This year’s special guest was Jay McSwain, Chaplain for the Atlanta Braves and Founder of PLACE Ministries. The funds raised during this event will be used to support the students and the university as it continues to grow.

The evening opened with a performance from Voices of Truth, BPCU’s vocal ensemble, followed by two impactful video testimonies that highlighted the transformative influence BPCU has had on alumni Dr. Jeremy Morton, Pastor of FBC Woodstock, as well as current student NiShawn Wise. Their testimonies underscored the eternal impact of Christian higher education, illustrating how the university provides both a strong spiritual foundation and the guidance students need to find and step into their God-given purpose.

Dr. Steven Echols, BPCU President, then shared a brief update regarding the college’s recent growth and introduced guest speaker Jay McSwain.

McSwain, a native of Vidalia, GA, is the Founder and President of PLACE Ministries, an organization that has equipped thousands of churches to help individuals discover their passions, abilities, spiritual gifts, and life experiences, helping them to serve effectively in God’s kingdom. Additionally, McSwain serves as Chaplain for the Atlanta Braves, offering spiritual guidance and mentorship to players and staff. He is a nationally recognized speaker, consultant, and ministry leader whose passion is to help people find their identity and calling in Christ

Pictured: Jay McSwain, founder of PLACE Ministries and Chaplain to the Atlanta Braves.

McSwain shared a message centered on the importance of discovering one’s “Why,” the purpose that guides both life and work. Drawing from his own journey, he reflected on growing

up in the community, receiving salvation at a local church, and being guided by mentors who invested in and discipled him. He emphasized that their guidance was instrumental in shaping the leader he is today. McSwan highlighted the university’s mission to help students “Find Your Purpose” and the importance of helping this college-aged generation discover their identity in Christ. This mission is a direct reflection of the work that drives his career and lifelong passion. He expressed his belief in the power of Christian education and the positive impact that Brewton-Parker is making, stating that helping young people find their purpose and identity in Christ can truly transform the world for God’s glory.

Following the presentation, Dr. Echols took the time to thank all those in attendance. Echols stated, “We are deeply grateful for our generous donors whose support makes events like tonight’s gala possible and ensures that Brewton-Parker can continue equipping students to grow academically and spiritually. We also want to express our sincere appreciation to Jay McSwain for joining us this evening. His inspiring story and dedication to helping others discover their purpose reflect the very mission we uphold at Brewton-Parker and serve as an example for our students and the area alike.”

Brewton-Parker Christian University offers a special thank you to its Platinum & Diamond Sponsors: Friendly Gus, Altamaha Bank & Trust, Dr. Steven & Julie Echols, The Claxton Bank, and Chick-fil-A Vidalia.

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201 David-Eliza Fountain Circle
Mount Vernon, GA 30445

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Brewton-Parker Christian University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, baccalaureate, and master's degrees. Degree-granting institutions also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of Brewton-Parker Christian University may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website.

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Purpose

The purpose of the nursing program is to prepare graduates who have the knowledge and skills to provide patient-centered holistic care that is safe, compassionate, honoring to Christ, and that meets the healthcare needs of diverse populations.

Mission Statement

In concert with Brewton-Parker Christian University’s mission, the School of Nursing is committed to provide nursing education through the application of biblical truth to promote the formation of graduates who engage in evidence-based practice, lifelong learning, and servant leadership through the development of clinical reasoning, professional nursing skills, and Christian values.

Candace Lilford

Profeessional Tutor

Candace Lilford graduated with her bachelor’s degree in Theatre Generalism in 2021 from Anderson University and with her master’s degree in English Literature in 2023 from the University of Alabama. She presently serves as Professional Tutor for the Student Enrichment Center while also teaching sections of ENG 101 and 102. 

As part of her two-year master's program, Ms. Lilford taught sections of ENG 101 and 102, while also serving as teaching assistant for British Literature Survey courses and volunteering in the university’s Writing Center. Ms Lilford has also presented papers at the Hudson Strode Conference and the South Eastern Christian and Literature Conference as well as working on various theatrical productions.

Born in North Carolina of South African descent, Ms. Lilford has lived in Uganda, Botswana, South Africa, and Trinidad before settling in Mount Vernon with her family in 2016, where she attended Brewton-Parker Christian University as a dual enrollment student. She presently resides in Mount Vernon with her family and spends her free time watching old TV shows.

Linda Armstrong

Academic Advising and Career Specialist

Linda Armstrong earned an Associate Degree in Criminal Justice Technology from Southeastern Technical College and a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Walden University. Throughout her career, Linda has worked with diverse populations, including at-risk youth and families and youth in crisis because of mental health and other issues. Her empathetic nature has made her an effective advocate for those in need. In addition to her professional work, Linda is also is committed to volunteerism. She has dedicated countless hours as a youth mentor, and to teaching about her faith at various Christian organizations. She believes in the power of positivity and its ability to transform not only her life but also the lives of others.

"If you must look back, do so forgivingly. If you will look forward, do so prayerfully. But the wisest course would be to be present in the present gratefully." ~ Maya Angelou

Willie Ford

Academic Advising and Career Specialist

Greetings, Baron Nation!

It's truly a joy to be back in a place that has shaped me so profoundly. I'm Willie Ford, a proud 2022 graduate of historic Brewton-Parker Christian University, holding a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology with a Minor in Education. Following my graduation, I embarked on a journey in education, teaching Special Education within the Vidalia City School District. In addition to my role as an educator, I had the privilege of serving as the Unit Director at the J.D. Rabun Boys and Girls Club. All the while, I was honored to pastor at the esteemed New Hope Baptist Church of Rhine, Georgia. With God's grace, I managed these responsibilities, and now, I'm thrilled and ready to contribute to the welfare of our students, aiming to inspire through service.

Dusty Arnold

Mental Health Counselor

Dusty Arnold  is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Board Certified Behavior Analyst as well as a BPC alumnus. He has years of experience working with a variety of mental health issues including anxiety, grief, and challenges related to Autism. He specializes in behavior-related interventions that can help college students build on their strengths to set achievable goals while also learning how to deal with the thoughts and feelings that sometimes get in the way. He incorporates Biblical values and evidence-based treatments to meet students wherever they happen to be on their journey to spiritual and psychological health. 

Carl Anthony "Tony" Wardlaw

Assistant Student Enrichment Director & Student Success Coach

Carl Anthony “Tony” Wardlaw – For over 25 years, Dr. Wardlaw has worked in leadership, counseling, and pastoring. Beginning with working in middle management for a manufacturing company in Douglas, GA, Dr. Wardlaw has also worked in the academic, nonprofit, public, and private sectors. Additionally, he served over 7 years in the United States Military as a Military Intelligence Officer before resigning his commission as a Captain in the Army.

Currently serving as the Assistant Director of the Student Enrichment Center, Student Success Coach, and Adjunct Faculty at Brewton-Parker Christian University in Mount Vernon, GA, he also serves as the Pastor of The Green Grove Missionary Baptist Church in Dublin, GA.

As a member of the renowned International Gospel Singing Group, The Wardlaw Brothers, Dr. Wardlaw has traveled all over the nation and abroad ministering and singing the Gospel of Christ Jesus. Dr. Wardlaw has served as a consultant for various agencies and has worked as a Fatherhood Coordinator and G.E.D. instructor within the Technical College System of Georgia and participates in local and national civic and philanthropic work.

Dr. Wardlaw holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in International Business from the University of Georgia, two master's degrees from Troy University (Master of Science in Clinical Counseling and Psychology and Master of Education in Counseling), and a Doctorate in Education from Argosy University in Organizational Leadership. Dr. Wardlaw is a Lifetime Silver Member of The NAACP and a member of The Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. He is happily married to the former Mrs. Stephanie Scott. They have 3 Children; Chambria, Marc, and Carleigh.

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