October 2, 2026
MOUNT VERNON, Ga. — On September 23, 2025, members of the community came together for the annual Brewton-Parker Christian University (BPCU) President’s Gala. This year’s special guest was Jay McSwain, Chaplain for the Atlanta Braves and Founder of PLACE Ministries. The funds raised during this event will be used to support the students and the university as it continues to grow.
The evening opened with a performance from Voices of Truth, BPCU’s vocal ensemble, followed by two impactful video testimonies that highlighted the transformative influence BPCU has had on alumni Dr. Jeremy Morton, Pastor of FBC Woodstock, as well as current student NiShawn Wise. Their testimonies underscored the eternal impact of Christian higher education, illustrating how the university provides both a strong spiritual foundation and the guidance students need to find and step into their God-given purpose.
Dr. Steven Echols, BPCU President, then shared a brief update regarding the college’s recent growth and introduced guest speaker Jay McSwain.
McSwain, a native of Vidalia, GA, is the Founder and President of PLACE Ministries, an organization that has equipped thousands of churches to help individuals discover their passions, abilities, spiritual gifts, and life experiences, helping them to serve effectively in God’s kingdom. Additionally, McSwain serves as Chaplain for the Atlanta Braves, offering spiritual guidance and mentorship to players and staff. He is a nationally recognized speaker, consultant, and ministry leader whose passion is to help people find their identity and calling in Christ.
McSwain shared a message centered on the importance of discovering one’s “Why,” the purpose that guides both life and work. Drawing from his own journey, he reflected on growing up in the community, receiving salvation at a local church, and being guided by mentors who invested in and discipled him. He emphasized that their guidance was instrumental in shaping the leader he is today. McSwan highlighted the university’s mission to help students “Find Your Purpose” and the importance of helping this college-aged generation discover their identity in Christ. This mission is a direct reflection of the work that drives his career and lifelong passion. He expressed his belief in the power of Christian education and the positive impact that Brewton-Parker is making, stating that helping young people find their purpose and identity in Christ can truly transform the world for God's glory.
Following the presentation, Dr. Echols took the time to thank all those in attendance. Echols stated, “We are deeply grateful for our generous donors whose support makes events like tonight’s gala possible and ensures that Brewton-Parker can continue equipping students to grow academically and spiritually. We also want to express our sincere appreciation to Jay McSwain for joining us this evening. His inspiring story and dedication to helping others discover their purpose reflect the very mission we uphold at Brewton-Parker and serve as an example for our students and the area alike.”
Brewton-Parker Christian University offers a special thank you to its Platinum & Diamond Sponsors: Friendly Gus, Altamaha Bank & Trust, Dr. Steven & Julie Echols, The Claxton Bank, and Chick-fil-A Vidalia.
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