profiles of alumni

“I arrived at Wayland with a wife, two kids and a call to preach. I was the first person in my family to graduate from high school. I started college right after high school but dropped out after the first year."

“I came to Wayland with a purpose. God called me to preach. Everyone, beginning with Dr. A. Hope Owen (president) down to the maintenance staff was helpful. Some of those who really stand out were Dr. Fred Howard, Dr. J. Ivyloy Bishop, Dr. Dallas Roark, Dr. Clark, Dr. Jerry Dawson, Dr. Charles Bassett and so many others."

“Someone anonymously paid for my last semester’s tuition, which allowed me to graduate. Dr. Fred Howard made arrangements with Dr. Eddleman at New Orleans Seminary, allowing me to go to seminary."

“Later, I was able to go back to New Orleans and obtain a doctorate. The journey has been exciting and the dream is still continuing, way beyond anything I every expected."

“God has allowed me to pastor some churches that I never expected to pastor. I have been places I never expected to go. I have had opportunities to serve in places of responsibility that I did not even know existed when I was at Wayland.”

Bud Goodwin, 1963 grad, Plainview campus

"Probably the only reason I have a college degree today is because of basketball and the Hutcherson Flying Queens. I am from a small town in South Texas and had always dreamed of playing for the Flying Queens. I was asked by Coach Harley Redin to come to Wayland and try out and I got a scholarship. Without that, I would probably not have gone to college. I was the first person in my family to get a college degree. My two brothers started college but dropped out to get married. I made my dad a promise that I would finish college before I got married and I did. In the early 60’s, it was a 12 hour drive from my home to Plainview in my VW bug but it was always worth it."

"I enjoyed Wayland because it was small and the people of West Texas were so friendly and always ready to help you. My dad and mom were amazed at the hospitality that we received from total strangers. "

"My classes were never very large and the professors really took an interest in you and cared about you. Dr. McCoy was the math department chairman and my teacher for lots of my classes so needless to say I have a very good math education. Some of my upper level math classes had only 5 or 6 students. It was awesome---- if you had done your homework. It was so great being able to walk down the sidewalks to class and know all the students you were meeting. I would not trade my 4 years at Wayland for anything in the world. Thanks to Dr. McCoy, Wayland and all the other professors, I have taught math for 38 years."

Julia Ann “Judy” Wallek Stridde
1962-66, Plainview

“In the fall of 1966, after four years of a purposeless life, I surrendered (grudgingly) to follow the Lord's call into the music ministry. My home pastor sent me to Wayland because he had gone to seminary with Dr. Roy McClung. I had failed miserably in my previous college endeavors, but I scored well enough on the ACT to be accepted. I enrolled and went to class for two weeks before my acceptance was confirmed."

“In the first week I met with Dr. McClung, who let me know that his door was always open. That promise set the pattern for all of my professors. Dr. James Cram was my role model of a Christian musician. My experience in the International Choir helped shape my love for all types of music. I received the finest instruction with personal attention. All of my professors were available and really wanted each student to do well. "

“Campus student relationships were summed up in my first semester. I was among the last group who bunked in Pioneer Hall. The rooms were just large enough for two bunk beds and dressers. If you met someone in the hallway, you would have to turn sideways to let each other by. Living this close for 30-40 guys could have been a nightmare, but the camaraderie of believers made it a wonderful, if not cramped experience."

“Wayland provided the educational, spiritual, and emotional atmosphere that helped me gain the tools to reach my goal of vocational service -- a total of 37 years, so far. Many things have changed over the last 37 years -- Faculty, students, administration, even the campus. But one thing has not changed: It is Wayland's commitment to educate men and women in a manner that honors our Lord and Savior. God bless Wayland.”

Bob Mathews, Class of 1970

“I tell my single moms, you’ve got to get God first, then you pursue the opportunities,” she said. “Wayland really helped me through the opportunity to get that education, and they gave me encouragement, spiritually, mentally and career-wise that I can do what I think I can as long as I keep my focus on God first, others next and myself last."

“For a long time, I was embarrassed by my situation, but I learned you don’t have to be stuck where you are. You are your own limitations.”

Sue Johnson, Lubbock BSOE 1980
Owner, Sue Johnson Business Services

 

“I get to have a hand in how people’s lives are improved. That’s what Wayland was about to me, helping me not just to find an education but to help prepare me for the world,” she said. “It’s not just about book smarts, but it’s about knowing how to deal with different people. They teach you how to deal with real life. Wayland’s whole outlook is that everything is about ministry and just doing whatever you do on your mission field.”

“With the education and the one-on-one opportunities with the teachers, Wayland helped me build my dream and focus me. It’s not just a dream, but I’m seeing it become a reality for me.”

Lacy Vercher, BA 2007, Plainview
Social Worker, CASA