June 12, 2025
SNELLVILLE, Ga. — As a prelude to the Commencement Ceremony of Luther Rice College and Seminary, the school hosted a banquet for graduates, their families, and friends.
Counting the graduates who were present, 350 people gathered on Thursday, May 15, at the Church on Main in Snellville for a festive evening of fellowship, a feast, and the opportunity to hear several graduates share their inspirational stories about their educational journey through the ministry of Luther Rice.
The next evening, First Baptist Church of Conyers opened its doors for the Luther Rice graduation of 108 students, representing 26 states and two foreign countries. The multicultural student body represents the God-given opportunity to serve the church and community by sending Christian men and women to serve many different people groups. Luther Rice remains steadfast in its commitment to God’s Word and academic excellence.
In alignment with this mission, Luther Rice announced the launch of the Nall School of Business, set to open in the spring of 2026. Named after a longstanding supporter, global minister, and Luther Rice graduate, Dr. Roe Nall Jr., the school of business will equip Christian men and women from a biblical worldview to be skilled, high-character leaders in the dynamic and complex world of business.
Luther Rice President Dr. Steven Steinhilber explained, “We began this new journey with conviction and clarity, the two principles that have defined Luther Rice since its inception – conviction in the sufficiency of Scripture and clarity in the gospel’s timeless relevance in any career and calling. More than ever before, we need to train marketplace leaders who can stand firm in today’s shifting culture and ideals.”
At the banquet, it was announced that Nall would be the commencement speaker the next night in Conyers. He was introduced as one who had served as a pastor of a dynamic and growing church with a heart for God, a successful businessman, and a world influencer.
In his message, Nall, who earned his D. Min from Luther Rice, gave the graduates a taste of old-time religion. He ended his message by charging his audience to keep on keeping on and never quit. He thundered, “Go forth humbly. Go forth boldly. Don’t ever let anyone stop you. Remember to do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, to all the people you can, as long as you can.”
The college and seminary also continue to expand the offerings with its recent eligibility for Georgia state aid programs. Dual enrollment at Luther Rice will give students a head start on their college career from a biblical worldview.
Parker Wyatt, marketing and recruiting manager for Luther Rice, stated, “We are committed to helping families build both a solid academic and spiritual foundation. Dual enrollment at Luther Rice isn’t just about earning credits – it’s about preparing students to represent Christ in their career or calling.”
The student testimonies on Thursday evening were particularly meaningful. Clint Powell testified, “I enrolled in Luther Rice to get an education, but what I did not anticipate was the profound impact the faculty would have on me. Even when corrective criticism was necessary, their words were seasoned with grace. Every class made me think biblically and critically. This school has given me the tools to share my faith and the boldness to be more fully committed to Christ.”
Sara Lundsford, worship leader at First Baptist Conyers, a wife and mother with multiple responsibilities, said, “God made it impossible for me to deny that enrolling in Luther Rice was His will for my life. I could never have imagined the impact this school would have on my life, but God reminded me to be obedient for my good and His glory. We will step out confidently to face the next chapter ofour lives.”
Willie Hinton had already earned two degrees at Luther Rice and was considering starting on a third degree, but was weary of the demands of his life and education. He went home one day and decided to sit down, turn on the television, and watch an episode of a favorite program.
His wife came home and saw him sitting in his easy chair and watching television. She said, “Willie, why are you not in school? What are you doing?”
Horton replied, “I am watching ‘Touched by an Angel.'” At that, his wife punched him in the ribs.
Horton said, “Why did you punch me in the ribs?
She answered, “I punched you because I am an angel. Get up and go enroll at Luther Rice for that doctorate you have been talking about.”
