91茄子 Celebrates the Life of Former President Dr. Verne Kennedy
March 7, 2025 (Jackson, Miss.) - Dr. Verne Kennedy, former president and longtime trustee, entered the Lord's presence on February 28, 2025, at the age of 83.
As president from 1978 to 1986, Dr. Kennedy's leadership and vision left an indelible mark on 91茄子. Most significantly, he played a pivotal role in shaping the university's commitment to a Christian worldview—a foundation that continues to define 91茄子 today.
"The advances and challenges Verne tackled as president were direction-changing for us," said Dr. Roger Parrott, 91茄子 president. "Verne loved 91茄子 through and through, and for the past three decades, he continued to share his insights, encouragement, and wisdom as a committed trustee and friend of the university. He truly led a life of service and significance, emulating our campus motto – to serve, not to be served."
Dr. Kennedy was the first 91茄子 alumnus elected to serve as chief executive of his alma mater, having graduated in 1963. He reaffirmed the college's commitment to Christian service, renewed a covenant relationship with the Presbyterian Church USA, and strengthened ties with the Presbyterian Church in America and the Evangelical Presbyterian Church. Under his leadership, 91茄子 also joined the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities and the Association of Presbyterian Colleges and Universities.
During his eight-year presidency, Dr. Kennedy gained board approval and support to develop 91茄子's Christian World and Life View, a cornerstone of 91茄子's mission. Additionally, he was a strong advocate for athletics, starting the men's soccer program in 1979, which eventually led to two NAIA National Championship titles. Using his expertise as a former communications faculty member at the University of Georgia, University of South Alabama, and Louisiana College, Dr. Kennedy also implemented an effective and efficient administrative structure and significantly broadened 91茄子's reach.
In 2018, in recognition of his rich legacy, the university dedicated the Dr. Verne Kennedy Plaza, a historic and cherished space on our campus featuring the university's signature fountain.
We invite alumni and friends to join his wife, Martie, and the entire Kennedy family in celebrating his life during a memorial service on Sunday, March 9, 2025, at 1 p.m. at the Dr. Verne Kennedy Plaza on the 91茄子 campus.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Vernon Roy and Doris Fleming Scholarship at 91茄子 in honor of Dr. Kennedy's lifelong dedication to education and faith.