Each year, the Alumni Association Executive Council honors outstanding alumni and friends. Each award has different criteria and nominees are carefully considered prior to being named.

Alumni Director Devin Ferguson said, “SAGU and the Alumni Association have a longstanding tradition of highlighting individuals who exemplify the spirit, philosophy, and vision of the university. These individuals have excelled and made valuable contributions to their fields. Above all, they demonstrate an outstanding commitment to SAGU and P.C. Nelson’s motto, ‘the whole Gospel for the whole World.’”

Among the honorees, SAGU President Dr. Kermit Bridges received the 2015 P.C. Nelson Distinguished Alumnus Award. The Nelson award is the highest given by the Alumni Association, and is named in honor of SAGU founder and first president Rev. P.C. Nelson.

Alumni Association President Greg Thurstonson said, “One of our greatest privileges this year is to celebrate Dr. Kermit Bridges as the recipient of the P.C. Nelson Distinguished Alumnus Award. Dr. Bridges’ life and ministry has been marked by character, sacrifice, hard work, and love for the university.”

Dr. Bridges recently completed 15 years as president, making him the longest serving president in university history. His vision led to the completion of the Sheaffer Center, Teeter and Bridges Halls, Garrison Wellness Center and Hagee Communication Center. In total, 55.7% of the developed square footage at SAGU was constructed under his leadership.

Moreover, the university reached its highest enrollment in 2010 and sustained four consecutive enrollments above 2,000 students from 2009-2012. Student growth came on the heels of aggressive campus improvement and degree expansion. But, Bridges’ trademark is his consistent emphasis on prayer, scripture and personal relationships.

“I personally appreciate how he personalizes his care for people one at a time, and this is exactly the way that he cares for our Alma Mater,” said Thurstonson.

Bridges and the following recipients were recognized during Homecoming 2015 festivities and at the 2015 Awards & Celebration Banquet.

PC Nelson Distinguished Alumnus
Dr. Kermit S. Bridges

Distinguished Alumnus Service Award
Mr. Gary Sutton

Honorary Alumnus Award
Dr. R. Bryan Jarrett

Distinguished Faculty Award
Dr. Bruce Rosdahl

Outstanding Young Alumnus – Vocational Ministry
Rev. Stacie Dowler Silvas

Outstanding Young Alumnus – Marketplace Ministry
Mr. Justin D. James