Waxahachie, TX (April 10, 2026) – On April 6, 2026, at 5 p.m., Nelson University hosted the Annual Southwestern College of Bible Ministries Student Award Dinner. The awards honor students across the departments of Behavioral Sciences and Community Services, Intercultural Studies, Church Ministries, and Bible and Theology.

The award dinner highlighted the accomplishments of students who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to their academic and professional development. Faculty select recipients based on their academic diligence, classroom participation, demonstrated personal insight, and academic diligence in their studies.

“What is most striking about this cohort is the consistency of stewardship across vastly different fields of study,” said Dr. Darren Daugherty, dean of the Southwestern College of Bible Ministries. “There is a shared thread of intentionality; these students are not merely high achievers for the sake of a GPA. They all share a ‘heart for service’ that transcends the classroom.”

Complete List of Award Recipients

Behavioral Sciences and Community Services

• Criminal Justice Program Award for Consistent Academic Excellence — Andrew Ortiz
• Criminal Justice Program Coordinator’s Award — Jess Daniel
• Social Work Program Coordinator’s Award — Matthias Holmes
• BSW Mirror Award for Ethical, Spiritual, & Professional Standards of Excellence — Samantha Duff
• Robert Mapes Award for Academic Excellence in Counseling — Yesenia Muniz
• Psychology Program Coordinator’s Award for Academic Excellence — Taylor Drake
• Award for Research Excellence in Behavioral Sciences — Jacob Martinez
• The William Armistead Department Chair Award for Academic Excellence — Samantha Duff

Intercultural Studies

• Dr. Delmer Guynes Award for Intercultural Studies — Reagan Thomas

Church Ministries

• Award for Excellence in Child and Family Studies — Abigail Taylor
• Award for Excellence in Child and Family Ministries — Jenna Grissom
• Award for Excellence in NextGen Ministries — Asa Cathey
• Award for Excellence in Youth and Student Ministries — Brennan Peterson
• Award for Excellence in Pastoral Leadership — Jesus Martinez
• Award for Excellence in Preaching — Eliona McElderry

Bible and Theology

• Award for Excellence in Greek Studies — Ryan H. Milstead
• Award for Excellence in Hebrew Studies — Monica Grace Truhe
• M. Paul Brooks Award for Bible and Theology — Andrew George
• Award for Excellence in Religion and Philosophy — Isai Carmona
• Leroy R. Bartel Award for Biblical Studies — Monica Grace Truhe
• John W. Wyckoff Award for Theological Studies — James Archuleta, Jr.

The awards dinner celebrated the dedication of students across multiple disciplines, reflecting Nelson University’s commitment to preparing graduates for excellence and meaningful impact in their fields.

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About Nelson University

Nelson University is a private Christian university located just 30 minutes south of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex in Waxahachie, Texas. Founded in 1927, the university offers more than 70 undergraduate degrees, both on campus and online. Committed to integrating faith and learning, Nelson prepares students to fulfill their God-given callings in a Spirit-empowered community. For more information, visit www.nelson.edu or call 1-888-937-7248