BPCU Celebrates Momentous Graduation
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Brewton-Parker Christian University (BPCU) held their 120th graduation ceremony on Saturday, May 9. The occasion brought extra celebration, as not only was it the first graduation since the institution became a university, but also marked the first time that anyone graduated from the institution with a Master’s Fegree in Education.
The graduation ceremony celebrated the achievements of the Classes of 2025 and 2026, including graduates from December, May, and summer sessions. A total of 301 graduates turned their tassels during the ceremony, as they celebrated being among the first students to receive Associate’s, Bachelor’s, and Master’s degrees from Brewton-Parker Christian University, rather than the institution’s former name, Brewton-Parker College.
The institute’s rise to University status was the result of several achievements, but was largely due to the establishment of Master's Degree programs – including the Master of Education in Teaching and Learning program – and a remarkable increase in enrollment, growing from 805 students in 2015 to over 1,800 currently.
The Brewton-Parker Christian University School of Education was established in early 2026, uniting the University’s existing undergraduate and new Master’s Education degrees. This change came as the demand for qualified educators has continued to skyrocket, and the number of students seeking to teach the younger generations continues to grow.
The Master of Education in Teaching and Learning includes two specialization tracks: Instructional Design and Delivery, and Early Childhood Education. As an entirely online program, both tracks are tailored to meet the needs of working educators seeking to grow professionally and spiritually.
“The graduation of our first Master of Education cohort is a milestone for both the School of Education and the university,” emphasized School of Education Dean Beverly Faircloth. “These graduates have shown dedication, perseverance, and a heart for service throughout their journey. We are especially grateful for the leadership of Dr. Rena Beasley, Lead Faculty of the Master of Education Program, in helping keep the program practical and relevant for today’s educators.”
During the graduation ceremony, University President and Commencement Speaker Steven Echols addressed the graduates with advice from Solomon out of the book of Ecclesiastes. Echols noted that success in life comes through enjoying each day, doing good, working hard, being thankful, and realizing that God is the one we are ultimately accountable to. Echols encouraged the students to use the gifts and talents that God has given them for the good of others and for the glory of God.
For more information about Brewton-Parker Christian University or the Master’s Degree in Education program, visit bpc.edu.
A MOMENTOUS OCCASION – Not only was the recent Brewton-Parker Christian University Graduation the institute’s first graduation as a university, but also the first graduation where graduates received a Master’s Degree in Education.
