FWB Churches in Nash County Contribute to Mount Olive College

MOUNT OLIVE – Members representing Free Will Baptist churches in Nash County generated $4,396 in gifts to University of Mount Olive, the denomination’s private, Christian liberal arts institution.

Seventy-five people attended the Annual College Dinner at the Whitley Center FWB Children’s Home. Churches presented their gifts to the College at the dinner. Of those giving, 17 were designated as Bridge Builders for contributing a gift of $100 or more.

Mr. John R. Manning of Elm City, Chair, Mrs. Kay Manning of Elm City, and Mr. Jesse Bradbury of Nashville formed the Steering Committee for the dinner.

Flood’s Chapel FWB Church, with Mrs. Louise Poland as chair, was recognized for giving the largest contribution and for giving the most per capita.

Jean F. Ackiss, Director of Church Support, coordinated the event and presided over the program.  “Every time you give to University of Mount Olive, you are making an investment in the lives of the students we serve,” she said.

The Convention of Original Free Will Baptists established University of Mount Olive in 1951 as one of its ministries and has given strong support throughout its history.

Dr. Philip P. Kerstetter, president of University of Mount Olive, said, “This year marks the 60th anniversary of the founding of University of Mount Olive by the Convention of Original Free Will Baptists.  The College clearly recognizes its commitment and responsibilities to its founding church, and I am gratified to see the way that the congregations understand the importance of educating students in a Christian faith-based, values-centered setting that is rooted in the liberal arts tradition.  Because of their generosity to the College, we are able to continue to transform the lives of our students.”

University of Mount Olive is a private institution rooted in the liberal arts tradition with defining Christian values. The College, sponsored by the Convention of Original Free Will Baptists, has locations in Mount Olive, New Bern, Wilmington, Jacksonville, Goldsboro, Research Triangle Park and Washington. For more information, visit www.moc.edu.