The inaugural class of Baptist Children’s Homes University (BCHU) graduated at Mills Home in Thomasville. The class first convened February 16, 2016. BCHU is a leadership and talent management program covering core areas related to the overall ministry of Baptist Children’s Homes (BCH).
Speaking to the class, BCH president/CEO Michael C. Blackwell said, “There are those who served in the past upon whose shoulders you stand. And I tell you today that in the future there will be those who look back upon what you have done, see your example of service and leadership as BCHU’s first graduates, and like you strive to be the future of BCH.”
BCHU class members are:
John Adamcik, Director, Human Resources
John has served BCH since August 1, 2012. When asked what BCHU has meant to him, John said: “This is one of the highlights of my professional career. I’m fired up about God’s work through BCH.”
Kathleen Burriss, Assistant Director, Cameron Boys Camp and Director, Family Work at Camp Duncan and Odum Home
Kay has served in several roles since March 1, 1990. Upon completing BCHU, she commented: “I am eager to move forward and put what I have learned to use in my day-to-day practices at BCH.”
Brooke Child, Director, Fleshman Pratt Education Center and Assistant Director, Weekday Education
Brooke has been at BCH since January 31, 2011. She said: “BCHU has helped me to understand the larger picture. It has helped me grow as a leader.”
Arwen Hayes Elders, Assistant Director of Camp Duncan
Arwen has served since June 2, 2010 when she became the first group chief at Camp Duncan. She said: “I’ve enjoyed building better relationships with other staff and learning the intricacies of how all of our jobs fit together.”
Bradley Gearhart, Program Supervisor at Cameron Boys Camp
Brad has served since October 20, 2010. He said: “I have learned so much through BCHU’s course work –– more than I’ve learned in my positions thus far.”
Bond Kiser, Manager of Performance and Quality Improvement & Benefits Administration
Bond has served at BCH since January 3, 2007. At the conclusion of the program, she said: “Being a part of BCHU has been an honor and a privilege. I will treasure the times of growth and fellowship I have experienced.”
Blake Ragsdale, Director of Communications
Blake first came to serve with BCH in August 2002. He said: “Being a part of BCHU has given me a greater appreciation for other positions and responsibilities in the ministry.”
Tabitha Ward, Director of Marketing and Public Relations
Tabitha has served since January 2012. She said: “It has been important to see how much our organization relies on the Lord in all areas to ultimately accomplish His purposes.”
Emily Waldroup, Case Manager/Supervisor at Truett Home
Emily has served in her position since February 2012. About BCHU, she commented: “It was a blessing to be able to spend time with colleagues, and hear from so many different perspectives.”
“I could not be more pleased with this first class,” BCH’s chief operating officer Keith Henry said. “BCHU is committed to challenging students to reach their ‘next best,’ and these nine graduates have worked hard and have achieved just that.”
Do you want to join North Carolina's largest family? Explore current job opportunities by visiting www.bchcareers.org