Award Recipients

This is awarded to distinguished alumni who has achieved excellence in their field of service and embodies Belhaven University’s mission in their life and work.

Spencer and Melanie Sullivan are 2001 graduates of Belhaven University.  Spencer graduated with a BA in Sports Ministry, while Melanie graduated with a BS in Elementary Education.  Before Belhaven, Spencer and Melanie grew up in Brandon, MS, and graduated from Brandon High School as sweethearts.  Spencer and Melanie have 4 children.  Caleb (22) is married to Bekah Stephens and works for Pafford as an EMT in Rankin County and is currently in school to be a paramedic.  Eden (20) is a student at Hinds Community College while working full-time for Ross Dental Clinic in Morton, MS.  Jeremiah (17) is a junior at Pelahatchie High School, and Asa (13) is in 7^th grade at Pelahatchie High School.  

While at Belhaven, both sang in the Concert and Chamber Choirs.  Melanie ran cross country, and Spencer was a pitcher for the Blazer baseball team and a captain during his final two years on the field.  The years at Belhaven proved to be extremely formative for both Spencer and Melanie as the Lord began to stir in their hearts a call to the unreached during this time.  The Lord used a missions course at Belhaven to radically alter Spencer’s worldview and understanding of global lostness.  From that moment forward, everything changed. 

After graduating from Belhaven in May of 2001, they married the very next month and then moved to north Mississippi.  Melanie began teaching at schools in North Mississippi, while Spencer pursued a Master of Divinity from Mid-America Baptist Theological Seminary in Memphis, TN.  While in seminary, Spencer also served as Youth Minister and Minister of Music for Highland Baptist Church in Senatobia, MS.  Spencer graduated from MABTS in 2004.  During these years, the Lord confirmed a call to the unreached.  In 2006, the Sullivans moved to the Middle East to work with unreached peoples.  Sports, a universal language, would play a huge role in their overseas work, providing both access to the unreached and a significant part of their strategy.  For 12 years, they lived and worked in 3 countries within the region.  For the last several years, Melanie worked closely with refugees who had fled their home countries.  Spencer’s work took him to 10 different countries in the region, developing new work and coordinating strategic projects. 

The Sullivans moved back to the US in 2018, where Melanie resumed her teaching career, primarily in elementary special education.  She is currently a special education teacher at Pelahatchie Elementary, while also pursuing a Master of Education in Dyslexia Therapy from Mississippi College.  Spencer continued working remotely as a missions strategist focused on the Middle East until 2021.  Since 2021, Spencer has been the pastor of Pelahatchie Baptist Church in Pelahatchie, MS.  While the Sullivans now serve in the US, they continue to support and point others to the Lord’s work among unreached peoples around the world.  Spencer serves as a board member for multiple ministries whose work is focused on engaging unreached people groups with the Gospel.

This is awarded to a recent graduate of the past decade who pursues excellence in their field and has achieved success as a younger leader.

Jake Clarke is the broker-owner of NuWay Realty MS and a rising leader in Mississippi’s real estate industry. Since graduating from Belhaven University, Jake has rapidly built a multifaceted business that includes real estate sales, property management, and brokerage development. Recognized as one of the top sales 10 agents in Central Mississippi for 2024, Jake is known for his practical leadership, strategic growth, and consistent results.

At just 26 years old, Jake manages a growing team of agents, oversees dozens of properties, and has closed millions in real estate volume. His entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to excellence have made him a trusted name among clients, colleagues, and industry peers. He focuses on improving client experiences and streamlining operations—applying a forward-thinking approach to every part of the business.

Jake credits his time at Belhaven with grounding his career in faith, leadership, and purpose. Whether guiding first-time homebuyers or coaching agents through their first deals, he leads with the values instilled during his time as a student.

Outside of work, Jake is an avid golfer, newlywed, and musician. He continues to invest in his personal growth and professional development, always striving to elevate those around him.

This is awarded to a graduate who has achieved excellence in the Arts professionally and honors the Lord through their creativity.

Dayton Castleman (‘97) was born in New Orleans. His father, Breck Castleman, and aunt, Lucy Castleman, are also Belhaven alums and put the school on the map as he searched for colleges in the early 1990s. He attended Belhaven College to study art, attracted by the critically robust, accredited small college art department developed and led by the late Prof. Jon Whittington.

While at Belhaven, he studied under professors John Whittington, Bruce Bezaire, E. Kate (Mills) Irby, and Michael McCauley. He credits the department for teaching him to think critically about art and encouraging him to understand his work both in the context of art history and in the context of the faith.

He married Karen (Hamm) Castleman (‘00) and they relocated to Philadelphia, PA, where Karen pursued a career in dance and Dayton worked in museums, galleries, and homes as a high-end art handler. During his time in Philadelphia, his work shifted from primarily painting to sculptural work in public spaces.

He earned his MFA in sculpture from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago in 2008, taught art for four years at Trinity Christian College, and in 2012 moved with his family to Bentonville, Arkansas. He currently works for architecture firm Verdant Studio as Director of Creative Placemaking, focused on art and art services in real estate and public spaces.

He and his wife, Karen, live in Rogers, Arkansas, and have three children: Anna (20), Zoe (13), and Fletcher (11).

This is awarded to a Belhaven School of Education graduate who reflects Ms. Quinn's dedication, commitment, and loyalty to teaching and service to their community.

Tricia Wood, a native of Edwards, MS, earned a bachelor’s degree in English from Belhaven with a minor in music, magna cum laude. She embarked on a teaching career following a stint with Campus Crusade’s Eastern European office in Vienna. Meeting an English teacher who taught pastors in closed countries piqued her interest in teaching English as a Second Language (ESL), which, along with learning German there, led her to pursue a master’s degree in foreign language education/applied linguistics at The University of Texas at Austin. She then began teaching advanced English to foreign military officers at the Defense Language Institute (DLI) in San Antonio, later moving into writing curriculum. DLI sent her on a one-year assignment teaching English to military officers in the Czech Republic, after which she was selected for the USIA EFL Fellow Program that placed instructors in English teacher training programs at Eastern European universities. At Palacký University in the Czech Republic, she taught both undergraduates and experienced teachers of other subjects who were in a special program requalifying to teach English. Back in the US after that program ended, she became an English/career skills instructor and liaison to federal agencies at a Georgetown University certificate program preparing naturalized US citizens for careers using their native languages in government service. She is currently the English editor at the FBI’s National Virtual Translation Center (NVTC), working with linguists of various languages to ensure the quality and accuracy of English translations for clients across federal agencies. She enjoys reading, playing the piano, singing in the chancel choir at McLean Presbyterian Church, and playing tennis.

This is awarded to a graduate who integrates Christian values and ethics in the marketplace. A servant leader committed to excellence and dedication to serving others.

Lawrence N. Overbey, Jr. is a senior information technology executive, church marketing strategist, author, and U.S. Air Force veteran. He currently serves as Director of Global Database Engineering & Operations at IHG Hotels & Resorts, where he leads the strategic development and operational oversight of the organization’s global database platforms. His team manages the mission-critical financial and operational database systems that support over 6,600 hotel properties and enable more than 375,000 colleagues to advance IHG’s global commitment to “True Hospitality for Good.”

Beyond the enterprise, Lawrence founded Relevance Ministry Marketing, LLC , and authored Marketing for the Modern Mindset: A Definitive Guide to Church Marketing. As a Certified Guide with The Malphurs Group, he partners with churches to develop healthy growth strategies through data-informed outreach and mission-aligned marketing. His work helps churches to reconnect with their communities and move to sustainable growth.

With an MBA from Belhaven University (2018) and a Graduate Certificate in Enterprise Architecture from Penn State, he brings a unique blend of strategic thinking and ministry-minded leadership to every role he serves.  Lawrence served on the executive board of Promise686, a nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring every child has a safe and loving home. As technology committee chair for Promise686, he advised on digital strategy to help scale the organization’s impact.

Faith and family remain central in his life. Married for over 35 years, he and his wife, Yolanda, are co-authoring a book on marriage inspired by their experiences raising three children and pouring into future generations as grandparents. 

This is awarded to a servant leader entrepreneur who has proven success in business – profit or non-profit – and demonstrates a commitment to ethical leadership in the marketplace.

Frederick Terry, a dedicated healthcare professional and entrepreneur, is the son of Frank Terry, Sr. and the late Virginia J. Terry.  A native of Terry, Mississippi, he graduated in the top ten of his class from Terry High School in 1997. That same year, he began his collegiate journey at Jackson State University before transferring to Belhaven University in 1998. At Belhaven, he was a founding member and starter on the university’s inaugural football team.

Frederick earned a Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems with a minor in Sports Medicine and Sports Administration from Belhaven University. Shortly after graduation, he began his career in behavioral health at Brentwood Behavioral Healthcare, where his passion for helping others truly began to flourish.

He was wed to his lovely wife Sylvia Terry in 2005, where they currently reside in Terry, MS

Committed to furthering his education and expanding his ability to serve others, Frederick earned his Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) certification from Hinds Community College, followed by an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) from Holmes Community College.

Frederick’s entrepreneurial journey began early. While still a student at Belhaven, he acquired his first rental property—marking the beginning of a long-standing passion for business ownership. He later established a successful used car dealership, which he operated for over seven years while simultaneously working as a registered nurse.

Today, Frederick is the founder and co-owner of TLS and Associates LLC, a thriving healthcare training company and staffing agency. His commitment to healthcare innovation and service led him to open an assisted living facility (Oasis Haven Assisted Living ) three years ago, which continues to grow and serve the community. Most recently, he was approved to establish a Community Mental Health Center through the Department of Mental Health—an initiative deeply rooted in his mission to support individuals with disabilities and mental health challenges.

A proud charter member and immediate past vice president of the Sigma Sigma Lambda chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., and serving member of Pilgrim Lodge #11, Frederick remains dedicated to leadership, service, and advocacy. His passion for helping the disabled and addressing the needs of the mentally ill—often underserved and overlooked—continues to drive his work and inspire meaningful change in the communities he serves.

To a graduate who has been influential in their pastoral or service-ministry, building the Kingdom through their work.

Josip “Joe” Debeljuh is a Croatian missionary and discipleship leader, serving primarily in Zagreb, Croatia, along with his wife, Kelly. He holds a Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.) degree in Missions from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.

Born in Pula, Croatia, Debeljuh had a passion for basketball from a young age and played at the Division 1 level in Croatia. At 22, he was awarded a basketball scholarship at Belhaven University. Josip was a starter and one of the leading scorers during his basketball career at Belhaven University. During his early days at Belhaven, Josip first heard the gospel, gave his life to Christ, and began his journey in the Christian faith. At Belhaven, Josip met his wife, Kelly.

Josip and his wife, Kelly, have 5 children. They served as missionaries in Croatia in 2002-2003. Later, in 2007, the Debeljuhs returned to the ministry while living in Alabama and consequently moved to Croatia again in 2008 as full-time missionaries.

Josip’s ministry takes a multifaceted approach: he serves churches by preaching, teaching, and encouraging local believers, often utilizing his background in sports—especially basketball—to build relationships and evangelize, both in Croatia and during regular trips overseas. He is fluent in Croatian, English, and Spanish, which allows him to mentor, disciple, and support churches across language barriers. Kelly is an artist, using art workshops and community events to connect women with the gospel message.

Josip Debeljuh is also an advocate for intentional discipleship and relational ministry, often writing and speaking on these topics. He emphasizes the importance of believers investing personally in others' spiritual growth, drawing on both biblical models and his own experiences being discipled by mature Christian men. 

This is awarded to an alumnus who exemplifies the heart of Belhaven University‘s mission, “to serve and not be served.” This designation honors a servant leader of distinction who embraces Belhaven’s mission and serves Christ Jesus in their career, in human relationships, and in the world of ideas.

Sheree Thompson exemplifies the heart of Belhaven University’s mission, “to serve and not be served,” through her unwavering commitment to servant leadership in both her professional and personal life. A dedicated healthcare professional, Sheree is currently pursuing her Doctorate in Healthcare Administration, with plans to graduate in Fall 2025. She earned her Master’s Degree in Business Administration with a focus in Leadership from Belhaven University in 2019 and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology from Jackson State University.

During her time at Belhaven, Sheree found more than just academic growth—she found a community that uplifted her during challenging times. The support, prayers, and encouragement she received inspired her to pay it forward. In 2021, she founded A Village, Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering individuals in underserved communities by connecting them with vital resources to help them reach their full potential.

Sheree’s servant heart extends beyond her nonprofit work. She volunteers as a Girl Scout troop leader with the Girl Scouts of Greater Mississippi, serves on various community boards supporting youth and adult education, and volunteers with the Nursery Ministry at Word of Life Church in Flowood. Her impactful work was recently recognized by WJTV during Women’s History Month, where she was nominated and recognized as a “Remarkable Woman in Mississippi.”

Sheree is married to Curtis C. Thompson of Canton, MS. Together, they are raising two daughters, ages 9 and 12, and a beloved fur baby. Her life is a testament to the power of faith, community, and a calling to serve others.

This is awarded to a Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics graduate who has achieved significant success in their professional role and encourages a Christian worldview while discovering innovations and best practices in their field.

Peter Mittwede was born in South Carolina, but spent most of his childhood in Ankara, Turkey, where his parents were missionaries. He returned to the United States to attend Belhaven (his 3 brothers also attended Belhaven), where he majored in Sports Medicine. He played soccer his freshman year before converting to the cross-country team for his sophomore through senior years. He went on to attend the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) for a combined M.D./Ph.D. program before moving to Pittsburgh for 6 years for an orthopaedic surgery residency, and then completed his medical training in Baltimore with an orthopaedic trauma fellowship. He returned to UMMC as a faculty orthopaedic trauma surgeon in 2023, where he fixes complex fractures and soft tissue injuries, conducts research related to orthopaedic trauma, and teaches medical students and residents. He lives in Madison with his wonderful wife, Kimie, and their 4 children (Isaac, Noah, Mary Evelyn, and Andrew).

To honor an alum who has effectively worked to strengthen the work of the Church in sharing the Gospel message.

Chris Gibson and his wife Debbie have served in overseas missions since 2004, first from Budapest, Hungary, and now from a new Ministry Center outside Edinburgh, Scotland, offering Member Care, Counseling, Mental Health Services, Soul and Pastoral Care to missionaries and their families. Chris is an Ordained Presbyterian Minister, Licensed Professional Counselor, and holds a doctorate from DTS, focusing on Missionary Care and in-depth research on the causes and prevention of missionary attrition.

A native of north central Florida, Chris attended Belhaven College (1974–1978), majoring in Psychology and actively engaging in campus life—soccer team, Tau Sigma Phi, BU Admission’s acoustic ensemble "Homeward Bound", and Omicron Delta honor society. After graduating, he met Debbie Faulkner while serving in youth ministry at Trinity Presbyterian in Jackson, where they were married in 1979.

Chris earned his M.Div. from Reformed Theological Seminary in 1982 and served as associate pastor at Lakeside Presbyterian while completing an M.S. in Counseling Psychology from the University of Southern Mississippi. In 1988, with two young daughters and a third on the way, the Gibsons made their first cross-cultural move—from the deep South to Detroit, where Chris served as associate pastor at Knox Presbyterian. In 1994, he became Knox’s Senior Pastor, serving Knox Church for 18 years before following the call to the mission field with World Outreach and SEND International, providing care for missionaries in challenging, unreached areas. The Gibsons often act as field medics going to critical or crisis situations. Chris’s Defining Priority is “To Keep Missionaries Health, Effective and On the Field”. 

The Gibson's have four married daughters, six grandsons, and one granddaughter.