Mark Johnson named Louisiana Christian University president
By LCU Staff
PINEVILLE, La. — The Louisiana Christian University (LCU) Board of Trustees has approved Mark Johnson, the current director of the Doctor of Ministry program at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary (NOBTS), as the school’s 10th president, upon recommendation of the presidential search committee.
“There have been countless hours of prayer, listening, seeking, reading resumes and other application materials, while asking God to guide this process and have His way,” said Tommy Kiker, chair of the search committee. “With this vote today, approving Mark Johnson as the 10th president in the history of Louisiana Christian University, we believe God has graciously and wonderfully answered those prayers and blessed this labor.”
In May 2024, the LCU Board of Trustees created a presidential search committee comprising four board members and two LCU faculty, assisted by a candidate search consultant. The committee was tasked with conducting its search independently and as transparently as possible while maintaining the confidentiality of the candidates being reviewed.
“Dr. Johnson’s exemplary leadership and profound love for the students and staff will undoubtedly support our mission and foster the growth and support of our university,” said trustee chairman Anthony Bunting. “Dr. Johnson said he sees this role as a divine calling. He is moved by the opportunity to serve the Lord at this remarkable institution. He is committed to uphold the university’s Christian values and to inspire students and staff to grow in their faith and academic pursuits. Dr. Johnson emphasized his commitment to a transparent leadership style and expressed his eagerness to build meaningful relationships. He believes that through open communication and mutual respect, the university can achieve new heights of excellence.”
Johnson earned a Doctor of Ministry from NOBTS, with his project, titled “Racial Reconciliation in the Southern Baptist Convention,” focusing on the themes of repentance, reconciliation and restoration. His debut book, “Black Church White Convention: A Pastor’s Story of Hope,” to be released soon, chronicles his experience leading an African American church to become part of the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC).
In 2019, Johnson and his family relocated to New Orleans for his continuing education. After guiding Edgewater Baptist Church of New Orleans through the COVID-19 pandemic as senior pastor, he joined the NOBTS faculty as assistant professor of evangelism and pastoral ministries and director of the Doctor of Ministry Division.
He and his wife, Heather Williams Johnson, a former LCU trustee, have been married for 29 years and have four children.
Johnson now serves as a trustee of Washington and Jefferson College, previously as chairman of the Development and Alumni Relations Committee, and currently as chairman of the Student Success Committee, as well as a member of the Enrollment/Admissions Committee, and the Campaign Steering Committee advising on a $200 million campaign.
Johnson is a third-generation Baptist minister. He graduated with a B.A. from Washington and Jefferson College in 1994, becoming the first African American senior class commencement speaker in the college’s 243-year history.
After a professional basketball career in Europe and South America, he earned a Master of Divinity in 2004 and Master of Theology in 2005, both from Princeton Theological Seminary.
Brewton-Parker College to become Brewton-Parker Christian University
By Brewton-Parker Staff
MOUNT VERNON, Ga. — In a significant milestone for the institution, Brewton-Parker College (BPC) is set to transition to Brewton-Parker Christian University, effective July 1.
BPC trustees unanimously approved a change to the institution’s name, which has now received approval from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). The decision was made after careful consideration and reflection on the college’s identity, mission and program offerings. Trustees are convinced that “Brewton-Parker Christian University” more accurately represents the focus of providing a Christ-centered, high-quality educational experience at both the bachelor’s and master’s degree levels.
Over the last nine years, BPC has seen remarkable growth as on-campus enrollment has increased by 56% and total enrollment by 80%. Seven new buildings and one addition have been built as well as millions of dollars invested in other campus improvements. During this period, BPC has developed numerous new majors, including nursing, and established Temple Baptist Theological Seminary. BPC also received a reaffirmation from SACSCOC with a remarkable evaluation that included no recommendations or notations.
“We believe this name change displays our purpose and will attract prospective students seeking a Christian university experience that emphasizes a biblical worldview,” said BPC President Steven F. Echols. “We are also certain that it will enhance our visibility and have a positive impact upon our community, region and beyond. In addition, this move affirms and further encourages our highest ambitions in achieving excellence in Christian higher education for the glory of God.”
