On October 5, community leaders, friends of Southern Adventist University, and university employees and students came together to honor servant leaders during the President’s Gala. President David Smith, PhD, hosted the event, recognizing three outstanding individuals from the Chattanooga area for their servant leadership.

Wilmer Perez, a junior in high school, was honored for his involvement at school and in the Hispanic community. Irvin Overton was recognized as a community member who goes above and beyond; as a retired healthcare administrator, he volunteers through various organizations and regularly gives Bible studies at an assisted living facility. The third recipient was Ron Lowe, executive director of Every Valley Leadership Academy; he was selected for his investment in the education of young people. These servant leaders were chosen for their willingness to identify a need in the community and fulfill it. 

“Being a servant leader means putting yourself, and your ego, in the back seat,” said Dan Bowers, president of Arts Build and master of ceremonies for the evening. “It means that no job is too small.” 

Many representatives from Chattanooga businesses attended, supporting Southern’s mission and making generous contributions to Southern’s endowment and scholarships. Thanks to these individuals, more than $300,000 was given to help make the dream of a quality Adventist education at Southern a reality for more young people.