Brewton-Parker Christian University (BPCU) celebrated its 120th graduation ceremony on Saturday, May 9, marking the institution’s first commencement since establishing university status. The ceremony honored the achievements of the Classes of 2025 and 2026, including graduates from December, May, and summer sessions. A total of 301 graduates were recognized for earning associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees. The event also celebrated the first graduates of the Master of Education program, reflecting God’s continued faithfulness to the university’s mission to transform students’ lives academically and spiritually for the glory of God.
In the summer of 2025, BPCU marked a historic moment as it transitioned from a college to a university. Among other achievements, this change was largely due to the establishment of master's degree programs and a remarkable increase in enrollment, growing from 805 students in 2015 to over 1,800 currently.
Graduates celebrate a historic milestone during Brewton-Parker Christian University’s 2026 Spring Commencement.
The BPCU School of Education was established in early 2026, bringing together existing undergraduate degrees and the new Master of Education in Teaching and Learning. In light of the growing demand for qualified educators and the significant increase in students pursuing education as a career, the School of Education is committed to academic rigor and practical application, producing classroom-ready professionals.
“The graduation of our first Master of Education cohort is a milestone for both the School of Education and the university,” said Dr. Beverly Faircloth, Dean of the School of Education. “These graduates have shown dedication, perseverance, and a heart for service throughout their journey. We are especially grateful for the leadership of Dr. Rena Beasley, Lead Faculty of the Master of Education Program, in helping keep the program practical and relevant for today’s educators.”
The Master of Education in Teaching and Learning includes two specialization tracks: Instructional Design and Delivery, and Early Childhood Education. As an entirely online program, both tracks are tailored to meet the needs of working educators seeking to grow professionally and spiritually.
Dr. Steven Echols, BPCU President and Commencement speaker, addressed the graduates with advice from Solomon out of the book of Ecclesiastes. Echols noted that success in life comes through enjoying each day, doing good, working hard, being thankful, and realizing that God is the one we are ultimately accountable to. Dr. Echols encouraged the students to use the gifts and talents that God has given them for the good of others and for the glory of God.
Brewton-Parker Christian University is the only accredited four-year Christian university south of Macon and north of Jacksonville, FL. As a comprehensive Georgia Baptist institution, Brewton-Parker Christian University offers liberal arts and professional programs in a learning community grounded in shared Christian values. Through the application of biblical truth in scholarship and a co-curricular focus on character, servant leadership, and cultural engagement, the university strives to provide a transformational experience that equips the whole student for lifelong learning and service in Christ.
Visit Brewton-Parker Christian University online at www.bpc.edu.
