Mississippi College Graduate Steven Smith Speaks at Founder’s Day

Steven Smith

Steven Smith, who serves as college pastor at First Baptist Church Jackson, will be the keynote speaker at Mississippi College’s Founder’s Day.

Celebrating the Christian university’s history spanning nearly two centuries, Founder’s Day is set for January 22 on the Clinton campus. The event begins that Tuesday at 10:50 a.m. at First Baptist Church Clinton.

Smith is among the leaders of a growing adult program that’s been vibrant for nearly four decades at First Baptist Church Jackson.

First Baptist Church Jackson attracts hundreds of college students from the University of Mississippi Medical Center, MC Law school and MC’s Clinton campus. They also attend other institutions, public and private, across the metro area.

The college students gather weekly to study God’s word, pray and discuss life’s challenges. Many of the FBC students are involved with inner city partner projects including tutoring kids and youth mentoring. Others are involved in church mission trips around the world.

Returning to his alma mater in Clinton, Smith was selected to the Mississippi College Hall of Fame in 1992. The former MC student leader was also a Founder’s Award recipient.

“He knows Mississippi College and wants to continue to challenge students to be individuals of integrity, influence and commitment to Christ,” said Eric Pratt, vice president for Christian development.

“Steven knows how to connect with, lead, empower and unleash students to impact their culture for Christ,” Pratt added.

His speech will be one major piece of the program. MC Music Department’s Worship Collective comprised of talented undergraduates will perform at chapel that Tuesday morning.

Founder’s Day activities will continue after chapel ends at noon. Faculty, staff, students and alumni are invited to enjoy free slices of cake (topped by blue and gold icing) along with coffee at the B.C. Rogers Student Center.

Last year’s Founder’s Day guest speaker was former President Lee Royce. Now the university’s President Emeritus, Dr. Royce led the Baptist-affiliated institution for 16 extraordinary years before retiring in late June. This will mark the initial Founder’s Day for his successor, President Blake Thompson. He’s served as Mississippi College president since July 1.