Belhaven University Reveals 2024 Alumni Award Winners

August 6, 2024 (Jackson, Miss.) - Belhaven University has announced its 2024 Alumni Award winners.  The University will honor this year’s recipients during the Alumni Award Ceremony on Friday, September 27 at 5:30 p.m. in the Dr. Billy Kim International Center.

This event is part of Belhaven University’s Homecoming and Family Weekend 2024 and highlights alumni who are successfully living out the University’s mission, “To serve, not to be served.”  All are invited to meet and celebrate with these award recipients.  A total of nine awards highlight alumni who are thriving in their careers, life, and service.

Belhaven University’s 2024 Alumni Award winners are listed below.

UNIVERSITY MISSION AWARD

Alumna of the Year - Christina (Bomgaars) Dent, 2005

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

Young Alumnus of the Year - Guillermo Santiago Salinas, 2017

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.   

Spirit of Belhaven - Rachel (Kurtz) Caldwell, 2012

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. 

MARKETPLACE EXCELLENCE AWARDS

Bettye Quinn Education Award - Dr. Jay Levy, 2013

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.

Business Success Award - Briana McElroy, 2011

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.  

STEM Distinction Award - Dr. Somtochukwu Ngwudike, 2017

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. 

Entrepreneurial Award - Greg Sweatt, 1986

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. 

Arts Excellence Award - Kerri (Courtney) Sanders, 2010

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

SERVICE AWARD

Community Service Award - Dr. Fred Hall, 1990

This is awarded to an alumnus whose mature understanding of the Christian faith has been instrumental in their commitment to building their local community.