Belhaven University Announces 2026 Alumni Award Recipients

JACKSON, Miss. (August 26, 2026) -- Belhaven University has announced its 2026 Alumni Award recipients.  The University will honor this year’s recipients during the Alumni Award Ceremony on Friday, October 23, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. in the Dr. Billy Kim International Center.

This event is part of Belhaven University’s 2026 Homecoming & Family Weekend 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 elevenawards highlight alumni who are thriving in their careers, life, and service.

Belhaven University’s 2026 Alumni Award recipients are listed below.

UNIVERSITY MISSION AWARD

Alumnus of the Year – Rep. Ronnie C. Crudup, Jr., 2006

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 – Katelyn Head, 2021

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 – Rex A. Dale, 1981; Judy Rhodes Davis, 1981

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 – Glynn Bridgewater, 1975

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 – Mayor Mary Hawkins Butler, 1976

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 – Justin E. Stokes, 2013

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.  

Arts Excellence Award – Dr. Jesse Noote, 2003

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

SERVICE AWARD

Ministry Influence Award – Sherry Lanier, 1979

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

World Service Award – Rev. David L. Moran, 1974

To an alumnus of distinct Christian character who impacts the broken world through their service to Christ and others by serving the oppressed, by advocating equality and justice, or by offering faith-based humanitarian relief.

Community Service Award – Bernice (Boney) Sietman, 1966

To an alumnus whose mature understanding of the Christian faith, has been instrumental in their commitment to build their local community.

You can learn more and register for Homecoming & Family Weekend 2026 here: https://www.belhaven.edu/alumni/homecoming/