At the annual Employee Appreciation Dinner at the end of the spring semester, Lubbock Christian University honors faculty and staff whose dedication and service have shaped the institution. This year’s event recognized retiring employees with a combined 175 years of service, milestone years of service award recipients, and the presentation of the Cargill Service Award, celebrating a legacy of faithful commitment across the LCU community.
Cathy Box, Ph.D.
2008-2026
Dr. Cathy Box joined Lubbock Christian University in 2008, coordinating the Secondary Education undergraduate program and the Curriculum & Instruction graduate program. In 2018, she became the inaugural Director of the Center for Teaching, Learning, and Scholarship (CTLS) and Director of the university’s Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP).
Drawing on over a decade of higher education experience and 15 years as a classroom teacher in Lamesa and Tahoka, she developed innovative programs that strengthened academic tenacity, faculty development, and student learning across the university. Cathy created the Learning Academy, University Writing Scholars, Flipped Classroom Scholars, and Online Learning Scholars programs, led new and adjunct faculty training, and built the CTLS from the ground up. She coordinated the Celebration of Scholarship and established the annual Bundy Lectureship on College Teaching.
Known for her mentorship, humor, and generosity, Cathy fostered vibrant communities of learners and inspired faculty and students alike. Her vision, integrity, and dedication leave a lasting legacy that continues to enrich LCU’s academic mission.
Brenda Lowe
1999-2026
Brenda joined Lubbock Christian University in the fall of 1999 as a Human Resources Coordinator, beginning a remarkable journey of faithful service that would span more than twenty-five years. Over the course of her career, her roles evolved, culminating in her leadership as Assistant Vice President of Human Resources. In every season, she carried a deep sense of calling to care for the people of LCU, recognizing that they are the heart of the university’s mission.
Through her steady leadership, Brenda guided the institution through meaningful advancements in employee benefits and strengthened vital partnerships, always with thoughtful attention and integrity. Yet her greatest impact cannot be measured in programs or processes alone. It is found in the countless lives she touched, often quietly and always intentionally.
Behind the scenes, Brenda served as a trusted advocate, offering wisdom, compassion, and encouragement. With a Christ-like spirit, she uplifted others and ensured that each person felt seen, valued, and cared for. Her legacy is one of enduring faithfulness and selfless service.
Stacy Patty, Ph.D.
1992-2026
Dr. Stacy Patty graduated from Lubbock Christian University in 1979 and returned to join the faculty in 1992. Over 34 years of service, he shaped the intellectual and spiritual lives of thousands of students as Professor of Religion and Ethics in the Alfred and Patricia Smith College of Biblical Studies.
Beginning in 2007, he directed the Honors Program, guiding its transformation from a program to an Honors College in 2016, and later to the endowed J.E. & L.E. Mabee Foundation Honors College in 2023, serving as Dean from 2016–2026. From 2021–2026, he also served as Dean of the J.E. & Eileen Hancock College of Liberal Arts & Social Sciences. Dr. Patty helped create and lead initiatives that became part of LCU’s fabric, including Scholars Colloquium, LCU in Washington, the F.W. Mattox Presidential Scholars Program, Council for Christian Colleges & Universities membership, the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Medicine Early Admission Program, and the Council on Undergraduate Research.
Known for visionary leadership and devoted mentorship, his legacy endures through the programs he built and the generations of students he inspired.
Byron Rogers, Ph.D.
1986-2026
Dr. Byron Rogers, a 1981 graduate of Lubbock Christian University, has dedicated 40 years to his alma mater. After completing his Ph.D. in Chemistry at Texas A&M University in 1986, Dr. Rogers returned to LCU and served in a variety of roles, including Professor of Chemistry, Academic Chair of Physical Sciences, Chair of the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, and Lecturer in Music. Over the decades, he has inspired students in the classroom, mentored undergraduates in research, and encouraged alumni to pursue graduate programs and professional careers in science.
Dr. Rogers also pursued his lifelong passion for music, earning a Master of Music Composition in 2014. He taught advanced music theory, produced choral arrangements for local and international performances, created jazz band and vocal arrangements for Master Follies, and composed contemporary a cappella works for Best Friends.
Known for his generosity, enthusiasm, creativity, and unwavering dedication, Dr. Rogers leaves a lasting legacy of teaching, scholarship, creativity, leadership, and service.
Karen Rogers
1999-2026
Karen has served Lubbock Christian University with exceptional dedication for twenty-seven years as a cornerstone of the university’s accounting team. Throughout her tenure, she has been recognized numerous times for her excellence while also giving generously of her time beyond her role, serving on campus committees, advising student organizations, and sponsoring student trips. Her investment in both the operational strength and the student experience of LCU reflects a deep and abiding commitment to the university’s mission.
Karen played a vital role in the complex work of modernizing LCU’s financial and accounting processes, strengthening the foundation on which the university continues to grow. Though often behind the scenes, her influence has touched every student, employee, and donor in meaningful ways.
Known for her tenacity, Karen approaches every challenge with determination and resolve, never relenting until the work is done well. Those who have worked alongside her have witnessed this steadfast spirit firsthand. Because of Karen’s faithful service, LCU stands stronger today, and her legacy will endure for years to come.
Donna Taylor
1996-2026
Donna Taylor faithfully served for 30 years as the Administrative Assistant in the Lubbock Christian University Alfred and Patricia Smith College of Biblical Studies. Her warm and friendly presence consistently blessed all faculty, staff, and students who had the honor of working with her. With exceptional care and diligence, she organized the shared life of the office, creating an environment where both faculty and students could thrive. Her steady assistance supported daily work and long-term vision alike, while her attentive guidance as an advisor to graduate students shaped countless journeys in ministry and scholarship.
Through every conversation, every task, and every quiet act of service, she offered genuine friendship that became essential to the heart and culture of the Smith College of Biblical Studies. Her kindness and faithfulness left a lasting imprint on all who were privileged to know her. With deep appreciation, we celebrate a legacy of service, encouragement, and enduring impact that will continue to bless generations to come.
5 Years of Service
- Rob Anderson - Director of Global Campus
- Reagan Branch- Resident Director of Gullo Hall
- Everett Corder - Assistant Sports Information Director
- Larinda Creel - Accessibility Servcies Coordinator
- Lena Davis - College of Education Administrative Assistant, Campus Mentor
- Tara Donai - Administrative Assistant/Dept. of Behavioral And Social Sciences
- Erin Drumright - Media Relations/Office Manager MarCom/Provost Office
- Joshuah Ellis - Assistant Professor of Behavioral Sciences
- Jerry Jerabek - Secondary Ed Program Coordinator, Assistant Professor
- Rachel Keylon - Instructor of Natural Sciences
- Karissa Ramos - Assistant Instructor of Education
- Nathan Richardson - Instructor of Digital Media Applications
- Shannon Ruff - ERL Assistant
- Keegan Stewart - Chief of Staff and Advancement Officer
- Macy Williamson - Assistant Professor of Behavioral Sciences
10 Years of Service
- Ashley Cherry - Associate Professor of Mathematics
- Brandon Goen - Controller
- Rose Johnson - Director of Office of Student Professional Development
- Isaias Miranda - Director of Center for Student Success
- Sharlan Proper - Administrative Assistant School of Nursing
- Shannon Rains - Associate Professor of Bible
- Gene Sheets - Professor of Education
- Joshua Thomas - Biochemical Research Lab Technician
- Kaycie Wilson - Assistant Women's Basketball Coach
15 Years of Service
- Tonia Boyer - Assistant Professor of Education
- Todd Duncan - Men's Head Basketball Coach
- Yvonne Harwood - VP for Institutional Effectiveness
- Tami Hodnett - Senior Graphic Designer
- Kristina Hutchings - HR Assistant/Payroll Clerk
- Jason Imes - Assistant Men's Basketball Coach
- Jessica Rogers - Assistant Professor of Chemistry
20 Years of Service
- Anna Pena - Housekeeping
- Leticia Perea - Housekeeping
- Leticia Ramirez - Housekeeping
25 Years of Service
- Jennifer Dabbs - Professor of Sociology
- Russell Dabbs - Professor of Economics
- Rhonda Pool - Admissions Operations Manager
35 Years of Service
- Annette Mahan - Assistant Professor College of Education
40 Years of Service
- Byron Rogers - Professor of Chemistry
Gordon Cargill Spirit of LCU Award
Named in memory of longtime LCU employee Gordon Cargill, this special award honors a full-time faculty or staff member who exemplifies LCU’s mission through a Christ-centered spirit of service. Gordon, remembered for his humble faith and consistent encouragement, left a lasting legacy—and this award continues that legacy by recognizing those who walk in the same spirit.
Justin Brown, Web System Administrator in the Marketing Communications Department of University Relations, is the 2026 recipient of the Gordon Cargill Spirit of LCU Award, presented to a full-time faculty or staff member who exemplifies the mission and values of the university as nominated by their colleagues. Named in memory of Gordon Cargill, who served LCU for 17 years with a Christ-centered spirit of encouragement and service, the award honors those who reflect his legacy of quiet, faithful impact across campus
Justin has served LCU since 2009 and is widely recognized for humility, innovation, and a servant’s heart. Colleagues describe a steady presence who quietly steps into needs across campus, develops solutions beyond assigned responsibilities, and strengthens university operations through creativity and behind-the-scenes excellence. His work supports major campus events, improves systems, and enhances LCU’s digital presence, all with a focus on collaboration and excellence.
These recognitions reflect the deep commitment and faithful service of our faculty and staff, whose dedication shapes the student experience and strengthens the mission of LCU. As we honor service milestones and the values embodied by LCU, we celebrate the individuals who make this campus a place of purpose, community, and Christ-centered service.