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@taogoods.net

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@taogoods.net

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@taogoods.net. For more information, please contact Christi Mitchell at cmitchell@taogoods.net .

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@taogoods.net .

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 .

Blue Mountain, Miss. - Blue Mountain Christian University (BMCU) is proud to announce the graduation of their first Computer Science student, William Porter. The Pontotoc native completed his Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science through the LCM Consortium of which BMCU is a member. As a student at BMCU, he participated in cross country, track, and bowling teams. The Computer Science program at BMCU equips graduates with both scientific and practical expertise that can be applied to a wide range of disciplines. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), software developers are among the highest paid professionals with a 2020 annual median salary of $110,140. The BLS estimates that the number of software developer jobs will grow 22% from 2020 to 2030. CNBC estimates that there are over 700,000 open jobs in tech, most of which require a technically focused skillset. "We are thrilled to have our first graduate from the Computer Science program at BMCU," said Dr. Barbara McMillin, President of BMCU. "Our goal is to provide our students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in their chosen careers." The Computer Science program at BMCU includes courses in programming, algorithms, data structures, computer architecture, and software engineering. Students also have the opportunity to gain practical experience through internships and other hands-on activities. To learn more about the Computer Science program at BMCU, contact the admissions office at admissions@taogoods.net

Blue Mountain Christian University proudly announces the President's and Dean's Lists for the Spring 2024 Semester. Placement on the President's List is bestowed on undergraduate students who exhibit a commitment to academic excellence. These full-time students earned a perfect grade point average (GPA) of 4.0. Placement on the Dean's List is reserved for full-time students earning a grade point average (GPA) of at least 3.6 for the semester. PRESIDENT'S LIST Logan Akins Alexis Alford Cosette Alsbrook Savannah Anderson Amber Andrews Andrew Ayala Skylar Ball Shawn Berry Timothy Berry Madison Boatwright John Boler Jr Aubrey Britt Jenna Cale Jesus Calvo Millan Gracie Cavin Eliana Cook Giulia Cordal Sasso Randi Crandall Loren Cross Jennifer Cubillo Genise Dabbs Shelby Davis Olivia Dean Jolee Doss Hannah Dowdy Erin Dunn Morgan Ellis Annelise Fish Skylar Flake Alexandria Garrett Madison Garrett MacKinnley Gentry Brianna Graves Crystin Guy Rae Hall Jacob Hamblin Cora Harris Isaac Harting Kenny Hernandez Jack Herring Johnathon Hitt Anna Hodge Meghan Hopper Viviann Housley Andrea Huguenin Jordan Inman Zoe Jackson Madison Jasper Jeslyn Johnson Martha Jones Mandie Jumper Nathalie Kent Madison Kirk Matthew Koch Sha'Merial Lacey Jenna Landers Emma Laney Kadon Lindsey Alvaro Lopez Pineiro Ashton Lovelace Maryn Macri Sarah Martindale Will Massengill Breana Massey Koryn Mathews Lia Mathis Parker May Isaac McMinn Hayley Messer Lauren Milford Mallory Mitchell Leah Montgomery Bridgett Moses Rachel Nanney Carver O'Neal William Parks A'Dasia Porter Josiah Putnam Jacob Reeder Caylee Richardson Creshenda Robertson Madison Robinson Bailey Rodgers Petrone Rudolph Kaytie Rutland Rick Sakamoto Leo Schon Ashley Self Andrew Shaw Ashleigh Shelton Lily-Ann Smith Ashtyn Smith Mia Spotts Hannah Styers Annabel Trauschke Alexis Tryon Kaylee Turner Jacy Weaver Caleb White Alaina Wilder Brianna Wilder Weston Williams Alexandria Yeats DEAN'S LIST Landon Ahrens Savannah Allred Aleksandra Augustyniak Amanda Baker David Bascomb Carolyn Beard Greyson Blair Lelan Boulden Bethany Brown Vitor Buche Adam Burge Isabella Carlson Jacob Carter Eneko Casas Lopez Shelby Childress Matias Cisterna Aravena Jory Collins Anna Comas Girones David Cox III Rebecca Crawford Alan Crozier Morgan Dabbs Olivia Decanter Victoria Durost Alden Easterling Evi Edwards Braxton Enzor Erick Flores Carly Frazier Camryn Frazier Katie Frederick Carlota Gascon Martinez Simona Georgieva John Giordano Tiago Gracia Ormeneze Abigail Griffin Cordarius Harris Audrey Hillis Christopher Hoing Bailey Holt Terry Hooper Caleb Hughes Marco Inga Huauya Kaysey Johnson Lillie Johnson Elizabeth Jones Traeveion Jones Kristina Kozakova Jolie Kyle Abby Laney Skylar Lee Yu-Chien Lin Madyson Little Elijah Logan Brisanda Luna Lopez Alana Martin Bradley McBrayer Julia McCoy Aleigha McDonald Katie Meeks Carolyn Milam Lori Mims Brenden Mitchell Macy Moorehead Minoo Sadat Mousavi Nejad Lindsey Murr Dylan Navarrette Yazmine Norphlet Natalie Nyberg Hailey Oliver Joel Parker Kaelyn Pettigo Hunter Pierson William Porter Jayden Rader-Butler Jonathan Reno Josiah Rivera Katherine Rutledge Chaquinda Shellman Brandy Simmons Mya Spight Anna Stanford Isabella Stephens Ameilya Stewart Makalah Sumner Abigail Tatum Jamien Terry Catherine Truemper Kennedy Turner Samuel Vaughan II Latricia Vernon Ashley Villanueva Shariah Walker Rebecca Walter Jasmine Watts Chloe Webster Chryshawn Wiggan Tabitha Wilkerson Hannah Wilson Angel Wright Jadyn Yarbro

Blue Mountain, Miss. — Blue Mountain Christian University (BMCU) was honored to have JJ Jasper as the speaker for the 2024 commencement ceremony. The ceremony was held on Saturday, May 4, 2024, at 10:00 am in the Modena Lowrey Berry Auditorium. JJ Jasper is a nationally recognized veteran morning on-air radio personality, best-selling author, comedian, dedicated Christian and devoted family man. Jasper hosts a national morning radio show on American Family Radio network. When he's not motivating listeners with his unique brand of humor and encouragement, he is entertaining people as a stand-up comedian and keynote speaker. Jasper and his wife, Melanie, along with their children live in Tupelo. Jasper addressed the graduates, encouraging them to “stay in the Word, pray for wisdom, grow in wisdom, and strive to be a servant.” He also reflected on the value of an education at BMCU, highlighting the Christ-centered focus and Christian worldview. It was an extra special occasion for Jasper as his daughter, Maddie, was among the graduates at the ceremony. The ceremony was a momentous occasion, and over one hundred graduates, eight from foreign countries, combined of bachelor's and master's degrees became BMCU alumni. BMCU President Dr. Barbara McMillin expressed her pride in the graduating class, stating, "It is an honor to congratulate these students and to send them out with a top-quality education made distinctive by a Christian worldview. At BMCU, we know our graduates are equipped to fill positions of leadership and service and will do so both in our own community and around the world. Congratulations to the class of 2024!"  For more information about the commencement ceremony, please contact Haley Carpenter at hcarpenter@taogoods.net .