Paul Fleming, executive pastor of Forestville Baptist Church, Greenville, delivered the commencement address of the largest December graduating class in North Greenville University history in Turner Chapel on Dec. 7.
Paul Fleming, left, and James Williams Crocker Sr., right, were awarded honorary doctorates by NGU and university president Jimmy Epting.Along with the record graduating class, another historical milestone was achieved. Kenny Moore of Clinton was the first to complete the graduate program, earning a master of Christian ministry degree. He currently serves as pastor of Davidson Street Baptist Church, Woodruff.
Fleming delivered the keynote message, challenging the 120 graduates to know the person of Christ, the purpose of life and the pentacle of importance. “Life is about Jesus Christ, not you,” said Fleming. “Are you going to be faithful?”
Fleming was awarded an honorary doctor of divinity degree at the conclusion of his address and was hooded by NGU president Jimmy Epting.
Fleming is a 1979 graduate of Hampton Park Christian School and in 1982 earned a bachelor of science degree in pastoral science from Liberty University. He was later awarded an honorary doctor of divinity degree from Emmanuel Bible College and Seminary in India.
He is an author and founder/speaker for “The Scripture Hour” radio broadcast since 1978. He has preached and conducted hundreds of evangelistic crusades across the U.S. and overseas, including Haiti, Trinidad, Ecuador, Brazil, Venezuela, Russia, Romania, India and Puerto Rico.
Joseph Kenneth Moore, left, the first NGU master’s graduate, stands with Samuel Isgett, dean of the university’s T. Walter Brashier Graduate School.The T. Walter Brashier Graduate School began classes in February. Moore previously had earned credits from other extension programs and instead of moving out of state to complete his degree, he was able to transfer his credits to North Greenville and remain in the area.
After graduation, Moore plans to continue working with Davidson Street. Moore, who hopes to continue taking at least one class each semester, “just to keep up,” also earned his undergraduate degree from NGU.
In addition to Fleming, James Crocker of Boiling Springs was awarded an honorary doctorate of divinity. Crocker is a 1943 graduate of North Greenville Academy.
“I could have never gone to school without North Greenville. I love this place,” stated Crocker.
Crocker is a retired pastor who served churches in North and South Carolina. He served 32 years combined at First Baptist Church, Boiling Springs, and Fairview Baptist Church, Greer. He previously served on the school’s board of trustees, and received the Distinguished Alumni of the Year Award from North Greenville in 1978.
Crocker continued his education at Furman University and received a master of divinity degree from Southern Baptist Seminary.