In honor and celebration of Carolyn Blevins.
Gourley, Bruce T.
Special Festschrift editions of Baptist History & Heritage
Journal honor scholars who have made outstanding contributions to the
advancement of Baptist history and identity. A pioneering academic among
Baptist women, Carolyn Blevins is a fitting recipient of this
year's Festschrift edition.
One of the most beloved professors ever to teach at Carson-Newman
College, Carolyn during her teaching tenure transformed the landscape of
Baptist higher education for women and set a remarkable standard of
excellence for all Baptist educators. She is currently retired as
associate professor of religion emerita at Carson-Newman.
Carolyn's career included prominent involvement with the
Baptist History and Heritage Society, of which she served as president
from 1986 to 1987. She is a recipient of the Society's top award,
the W. O. Carver Distinguished Service Award, and of the Norman W. Cox
Award for best annual article published in the BH&H journal. In
addition, one of the Society's most prestigious awards bears her
name.
The Carolyn Blevins Meritorious Service Award is annually bestowed
upon "an individual or organization considered to have provided
commendable and exemplary service to the society and is an expression of
the organization's genuine appreciation for contributions made to
the success of the society in its ministry and service."
Our two Festschrift edition editors have done a superb job in
overseeing the production of this journal edition. Doug Weaver of Baylor
University came to know Carolyn well during annual gatherings of a
Baptist historians' reading group, while Merrill M. Hawkins for a
number of years was a colleague of hers at Carson-Newman.
Like Doug, I came to know Carolyn through the historians'
reading group, quickly developing a great appreciation of her many
contributions to Baptist life, as well as her great wisdom and gracious
spirit. I am also grateful for Carolyn's shaping influence upon the
Baptist History and Heritage Society.
The articles in this special edition of BH&H celebrate the
career and life of a Baptist scholar and leader who has impacted
thousands of persons. In addition to reading the articles, I hope you
will join us for the BH&HS annual meeting in Waco, Texas, May 23-25,
where we will celebrate and honor Carolyn Blevins in person.
[ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]
Bruce T. Gourley
Executive Director
