Brewton-Parker Christian University (BPCU) student Conner Wright, a junior criminal justice major from St. Johns, Florida, has been selected for the Georgia Legislative Internship Program (GLIP) for the 2027 legislative session.
Through the program, Wright will spend the spring semester working at the Georgia State Capitol in Atlanta, where he will gain firsthand experience with the legislative process and the daily operations of state government.
The Georgia Legislative Internship Program gives college students the opportunity to work alongside legislators and legislative staff while learning how laws are developed and decisions are made at the state level. For Wright, the experience will offer a closer look at how government works and a chance to build on what he has learned in his criminal justice courses at BPCU.
Dr. Roger Byrd, Associate Professor of Social Sciences at BPCU, was pleased to learn of Wright’s acceptance into the program: “Conner is an exceptional student whose dedication, integrity, and work ethic make him truly deserving of this honor. I am confident he will make meaningful contributions to his assigned area and represent our program with distinction. This internship offers him valuable, hands-on experience that will serve as a strong foundation for a successful career in his chosen field.”
Wright earned his place in the program following an application and interview process. He will participate in an additional round of interviews in December to determine his specific placement within the General Assembly.
His internship will begin with a mandatory orientation on January 7, 2027, just days before the legislative session convenes on January 11. As a full-time intern, Wright will work throughout the session while receiving academic credit for his experience.
“I’m really excited to have this opportunity to see firsthand how our state government works,” Wright said. “As a criminal justice major, I’ve learned a lot about our government and legal system in the classroom, so being able to experience that process in person is something I’m looking forward to. I’m grateful for this opportunity and excited to see what I can learn from it.”
At BPCU, students are encouraged to take what they learn in the classroom and put it into practice. Wright’s upcoming internship is one example of how those opportunities can help students explore their interests, gain professional experience, and prepare for what comes after graduation. President Echols noted that Conner’s opportunity is another example of how BPCU students have the potential to make an impact in their chosen professions as the university seeks to send out ambassadors for Christ.
For more information about Brewton-Parker Christian University and its academic programs, visit www.bpc.edu.
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.
Brewton-Parker Christian University makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of information published on this website. However, the University's official policies, procedures, requirements, fees, and academic information are maintained in the Academic Catalog, Student Handbook, Employee Handbook, and other official university publications. In the event of any discrepancy, the information contained in the University's official publications shall govern. Users should consult the appropriate official document for the most current information.
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 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
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 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 – 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.