Last weekend during Homecoming Weekend, Emmanuel President, Dr. Ron White was awarded the Medallion Award, for his 31 years of service to the college.
The Medallion Award is considered Emmanuel’s highest honor. Presented annually by the Board of Trustees, it is given to an individual who has gone “above and beyond” to advance the mission of the college, serve as an ambassador, and promote the college through his or her professional community to expand the college’s influence and outreach.
President White first attended Emmanuel as a student from 1967-1969, while Emmanuel was a junior college. After receiving his associates degree from Emmanuel, he finished his bachelor’s degree at the University of Georgia in psychology. In later years he earned his master’s degree in counseling and his doctorate in higher education, also from UGA.
Dr. White’s career in higher education began when he returned to Emmanuel in 1980 as the Director of Financial Aid, and directed the Emmanuel Singers, a role he served in for 15 years. In 1984, he was named the Dean of Students, later becoming the Director of Enrollment Management in 1991. In September of 2014, he was named the ninth president of Emmanuel College. Prior to this position, he served Emmanuel for 22 years in various roles, including 18 years in at the senior leadership.
In his career at Emmanuel, some of his major accomplishments included:
- Creating the RA/RRD system in Housing
- Helping move Emmanuel to four-year status
- Designing and publishing the 75th commemorative yearbook
- Organizing the 100th Centennial Celebration in 2019
- Helping Emmanuel resolve a financial crisis
- Guiding Emmanuel through a world-wide Pandemic
Earlier this month, President White announced his intent to retire from the post, after nine years.
David Roberson, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, stated, “The Board of Trustees is grateful for the significant impact President White has had on Emmanuel College during his many years of service and especially during his tenure as President. As much as we would love for him continue as President, we understand and support him in his decision to retire.”
IPHC General Superintendent, Bishop Doug Beacham had this to say about the way President White has led their alma mater.
“From our earliest days as freshmen in 1967 to now, you have demonstrated godly character and servant leadership,” he said. “You have made all Emmanuel alumni proud in the way you have led in these difficult years.”
Without Dr. White’s leadership and guidance, Emmanuel would not be where it is today, if here at all. We are thankful for his dedication and service to the college. Congratulations, Dr. Ron White – the recipient of the 2023 Medallion Award!
