BLUE MOUNTAIN, Miss. — Blue Mountain Christian University proudly announces Dr. Ashley Coleman as the new Dean of Education. A native of Pontotoc, Coleman brings over a decade of educational experience and a strong commitment to student success. Coleman earned her Bachelor of Arts in Secondary English Education from the University of Mississippi, her Master of Education in School Leadership and Supervision from Belhaven University, and her Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Freed-Hardeman University. She has a robust background in teaching and curriculum development, with a distinguished 15-year career in the K-12 sector, including 12 years of dedicated service with the Pontotoc County School District. Coleman taught English Language Arts for ten years before transitioning to the role of Curriculum Specialist and MTSS Director, where she served for five years. She also served as the district's New Teacher Mentor Coordinator. In addition to her work in education, Coleman is the owner of Level Up Educational Consulting LLC. Through her consulting firm, she specializes in resume enhancement, English Language Arts training, writing training, Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), and leadership development. "I am honored to step into the role of Dean of Education at Blue Mountain Christian University," said Dr. Coleman. “This institution's unwavering commitment to academic excellence and Christ-centered education aligns with my personal and professional mission to inspire future educators who are grounded in faith and equipped to lead with integrity and compassion. My faith in Jesus Christ is the foundation of my life and work, and I am dedicated to guiding students to integrate their faith into their calling as educators. My prayer is that, together, we will empower students to make a meaningful impact in their classrooms and communities for the glory of God." Coleman resides in Thaxton with her husband and their two sons. Her strong ties to the community and extensive experience in education position her well to lead and inspire future educators. For more information, please contact Dr. Coleman at acoleman@5054k.com

Blue Mountain, Miss. – Blue Mountain Christian University (BMCU) is proud to announce the recipients of the 2024 Leora Duce Leadership Diploma, honoring nine outstanding seniors who exemplify the ideals of intellectual integrity, civility, Christian character, and servant leadership. This prestigious award, part of the Leora Duce Leadership Initiative, recognizes students who have excelled in their academic pursuits and demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities throughout their time at the university. Initiated by Dr. Leora Duce, a distinguished 1957 BMC graduate, the leadership program aims to equip students with the skills and values necessary for effective leadership both on campus and in their future careers. The selected recipients have shown commitment to their studies, active engagement in campus activities, and a dedication to improving their communities. The 2024 Leora Duce Leadership Diploma recipients are: - Amanda Kaylee Baker - Kaysey Marie Johnson - Martha Abigail Faith Jones - Kaelyn Makenzie Pettigo - Madison Mathis Robinson - Mya Denise Spight - Alexis Victoria Tryon - Caleb Easton White - Alexandria Janell Yeats To earn the leadership diploma, students must accumulate at least 100 points through various activities to cultivate essential leadership skills. These include problem-solving, team-building, effective communication, and a commitment to service and civic responsibility, all grounded in biblical principles. The LDLI aims to foster servant leadership, encouraging students to embrace their roles as community servants and ethical leaders. This year's recipients are poised to make a significant impact in their future endeavors, guided by the values instilled in them during their time at BMCU. For more information about the Leora Duce Leadership Initiative at Blue Mountain Christian University, please contact Lynn Harrison, LDLI Coordinator, at lharrison@5054k.com .

Blue Mountain, Miss. — Blue Mountain Christian University is excited to announce its annual Lessons and Carols service on Dec. 5, 2024, at 7 p.m. The event will be held in the Modena Lowrey Berry Auditorium and marks the official welcome of the Christmas season, celebrating the arrival of Jesus Christ, our Immanuel. This cherished campus community event, which is free to the public, will feature powerful performances by the Chorale and guest musicians. Attendees will be invited to join in a festive celebration centered around the traditional nine lessons of scripture, which articulate the prophecy of the promised Messiah and celebrate His miraculous birth in Bethlehem. Under the direction of Dr. Greg Long, chair and professor of music, along with Laura Long, instructor of music, the voice-auditioned choral ensemble will fill the auditorium with the spirit of Christmas through melodic holiday carols. Each carol will be interspersed with meaningful readings of the nine scripture passages by the university’s administration and faculty members. “This special event is one of my favorite experiences each year here on our BMCU campus as we welcome the Christmas season and celebrate again the glorious good news of God’s gift of salvation through the promised birth of His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, our Immanuel,” Dr. Long said. “I love hearing the dramatic reading of the nine scripture lessons and the beautiful singing of the carols presented by the Chorale and the entire congregation with full audience participation. It is truly a seasonal worship celebration!” Everyone in the community is invited to attend this evening of music, reflection, and joy. Join us as we come together to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas. For more information, please contact Dr. Long at glong@5054k.com

Blue Mountain, Miss.– Blue Mountain Christian University invites the community to a weekend of celebration and fellowship during its annual Founders Day and Homecoming events. This year’s festivities are set for Nov. 1-2, 2024, featuring a lineup of engaging activities for all ages. Kicking off the weekend on Friday, Nov. 1, will be the BMCU Chorale Fall Concert titled "How Great Your Name." This special performance, hosted by the Blue Mountain Christian University Department of Fine Arts, will be held at 7 p.m. in the Modena Lowrey Berry Auditorium. The event is free and open to the public, promising an unforgettable evening of music. Additionally, the Palmer Donnell House Guild will host the popular bluegrass and gospel band Murphy Ridge at 2 p.m. on Friday. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and enjoy the enchanting atmosphere at the Palmer Donnell House. Homecoming festivities continue on Saturday, Nov. 2, with a beloved tradition welcoming back alumni and current players to the baseball diamond at 9 a.m. Following the baseball event, the Homecoming Court will be presented in the Tyler Gymnasium at 11 a.m. A pregame lunch will be available at Ray Dining Hall from noon to 1 p.m., providing a perfect opportunity for guests to mingle and celebrate. The excitement continues as the women’s basketball team takes to the court at 1 p.m., followed by the men’s team at 3 p.m.  Join us on the mountain for a weekend filled with events, music, and fellowship. For more information about the events, please contact Kayce Bragg at kbragg@5054k.com

Blue Mountain, Miss. — Blue Mountain Christian University Department of Fine Arts is thrilled to announce the upcoming Chorale Fall Concert, "How Great Your Name," as part of the Founder's Day Celebration on Nov. 1, 2024, at 7 p.m. in the Modena Lowrey Berry Auditorium. This event is open to the public, and admission is free. “I have invited a select group of talented home-schooled high school students from the Shepherd’s Horn music school in Bartlett, TN to join with the Chorale in singing “Jubilate Deo” by Peter Anglea and “Te Deum” by W. A. Mozart. We are also inviting a select group of singers from the New Albany Presbyterian Church sanctuary choir to combine with the Chorale on several new selections of Psalms and hymns. The concert will conclude with two favorite anthems of mine in which alumni singers from the Chorale will be invited to come up on stage and sing with the Chorale once again in a joyful finale for our annual Founder’s Day celebration. This musical event promises to be a special evening of beautiful singing and joyful celebration!” Isaiah Traylor, a tenor and a former student, will be gracing the occasion as the distinguished guest artist. For any inquiries or further information, please contact Dr. Greg Long, chair of the Fine Arts Department, at glong@5054k.com . 

Blue Mountain, Miss. - Blue Mountain Christian University (BMCU) is thrilled to announce that all nursing graduates have successfully passed the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN), achieving a remarkable 100% pass rate. This exceptional achievement serves as a testament to the dedication and quality of education provided by the BMCU School of Nursing. The inaugural Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) class has set a high standard, reflecting the School of Nursing unwavering dedication to academic excellence and the nurturing of future healthcare professionals. Dr. Barbara McMillin, President of BMCU, expressed her pride and congratulations to the graduates, stating, "A 100% pass rate by the inaugural BSN class clearly affirms the BMCU School of Nursing’s commitment to Christ-centered excellence. We congratulate each of these graduates and wish them ongoing success as they fulfill their calling." The success of BMCU's nursing graduates underscores the university's mission to equip students with the knowledge and skills to excel in their respective fields, while upholding the values of faith-based education. For more information about Blue Mountain Christian University and its School of Nursing, please visit bmcnursing.org

Blue Mountain, Miss. —Blue Mountain Christian University's Department of Fine Arts is thrilled to announce the upcoming presentation of Cinderella Confidential, a delightful and comedic twist on the classic tale of Cinderella. Cinderella Confidential, written by Eric Coble, follows the story of two investigative reporters, Deb Jabber and Sonny Glamour, as they compete to uncover the truth behind the timeless love story. With appearances from beloved characters such as Pinocchio and Jack, this no-holds-barred exposé will keep you on the edge of your seat. The play will take place in Garrett Auditorium on the following dates: - October 3 at 7 pm - October 4 at 7 pm - October 5 at 2 pm Directed by BMCU Assistant Professor of Speech & Theatre Christi Mitchell, the cast includes Blue Mountain Christian University students Hannah Wilson of Emerald, Wisconsin in the role of Sonny Glamour, Lily-Ann Smith of Arlington, Tennessee in the role of Deb Jabber, Giana Curasi from Queens, New York in the roles of Cinderella and Jack, Johnathon Hitt of Myrtle, Mississippi in the roles of the Prince and Mr. Shoemaker, and Alivia White of Germantown, Tennessee in the roles of Pinocchio and Mrs. Mouse. Several other actors complete the cast, including Moriah Addison of Tupelo, Mississippi in the roles of the Fairy Godmother and Wicked Stepsister #2, Kinglsee Hendrix of Tupelo, Mississippi in the role of Mr. Mouse, Ana Hamilton of Tupelo, Mississippi in the role of the Wicked Stepsister #1, Emily Taylor of New Albany, Mississippi in the role of an elf, Gabriel Hamilton of Tupelo, Mississippi in the role of an elf, and Vivian Mitchell of New Albany, Mississippi in the role of an elf. "This is a hilarious play that is a great twist on the classic story of Cinderella," Mitchell said. "It is a family-friendly production that is guaranteed to make you laugh." Tickets for this exciting production are $10 and can be purchased with cash or check at the door. While reservations are not required, you can reserve seats by emailing cmitchell@5054k.com. For more information, please contact Christi Mitchell at cmitchell@5054k.com .

Blue Mountain, Miss. — Blue Mountain Christian University (BMCU) is proud to announce its partnership with Rize Education to introduce new majors in Cybersecurity and Information Technology. This collaboration aims to address the growing market demand for skilled professionals in these high-demand fields. As part of its commitment to providing students with cutting-edge academic programs, BMCU has been awarded a Congressionally-funded grant to help bridge the national skills gap in these areas. With the rapid advancement of technology and the increasing prevalence of cyber threats, the need for qualified professionals in Cybersecurity and Information Technology has never been greater. Recognizing this demand, BMCU has taken a proactive approach to equip its students with the essential skills needed to succeed in the 21st century workforce. This collaboration will enable BMCU to provide a comprehensive curriculum that combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience, giving students a competitive edge in the job market. The Congressionally-funded Community Project Grant was awarded to the Lower Cost Models Consortium (LCMC). BMCU’s selection as one of the member institutions to receive the grant funding underscores the university's dedication to addressing the national skills gap in Cybersecurity and Information Technology. This grant will not only support the deployment of career-focused curriculum in high-need fields but also provide scholarships to students majoring in them. By offering this scholarship opportunity, BMCU aims to make quality education accessible to a wider range of students and contribute to closing the skills gap in these critical fields. The introduction of these new majors in Cybersecurity and Information Technology represents a significant milestone for BMCU. By embracing technology-led academic programs, the university is future-proofing its curriculum and ensuring that its graduates possess the skills necessary to thrive in an increasingly digital world. BMCU and Rize Education are excited about the potential impact of this partnership and the opportunities it will create for students. By combining their expertise and resources, they aim to empower the next generation of professionals in Cybersecurity and Information Technology, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in their careers. For more information about the new majors in Cybersecurity and Information Technology at BMCU, please contact admissions@5054k.com .

Blue Mountain, Miss. —Blue Mountain Christian University School of Nursing is proud to announce that it has received accreditation for its baccalaureate degree program in nursing for a period of five years, extending to June 30, 2029. The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) granted this accreditation after evaluating the program based on the CCNE Standards for Accreditation of Baccalaureate and Graduate Nursing Programs. The accreditation action is effective as of Nov. 13, 2023, and the next on-site evaluation is scheduled for the fall of 2028. "We are committed to continuously improving our program and look forward to the growth and development of our nursing program," said Dr. Tammie McCoy, Dean of Nursing. "This accreditation is a testament to our dedication to providing Christ-centered academic excellence and fostering a collaborative learning environment for our students." The mission of the BMCU School of Nursing is to prepare professional nurses from the perspective of a Christian worldview that fosters intellectual integrity, academic excellence, civility and character in one’s professional career. For more information about the BMCU School of Nursing, visit bmcnursing.org .