Truett McConnell University formally inaugurated Larry W. Lyon as its ninth president on Thursday, Sept. 24, during a ceremony held at the Benjamin F. Brady Arena on its Cleveland campus.
Although Lyon officially began his tenure as president April 1, the inauguration marked the ceremonial celebration of his leadership. Lyon joins Truett McConnell during its 80th year, a significant milestone in the university’s history.
Thursday’s ceremony brought together faculty, staff, students, alumni, government officials, church leadership and the TMU Board of Trustees.
New season
Prior to his appointment, Lyon served as the senior vice president for business administration at New Orleans Seminary. He previously served as the vice president for enrollment at NOBTS and the director of enrollment at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary.
In his inaugural address, Lyon emphasized a deep belief in Truett McConnell University’s legacy, mission and future. “An inauguration can look like the celebration of a person. It is not. Today is about stewardship,” he said.
Looking toward the future of Truett McConnell, Lyon emphasized that the university’s mission and legacy belong first to Christ. “It does not belong to the president, the Trustees, the faculty, or the alumni. Truett McConnell University belongs to Christ. We are but its stewards,” he said.
Vision of servanthood
Lyon cast a hopeful vision for TMU’s future, rooted in biblical fidelity, servanthood, the Great Commission and the Great Commandment, challenging the TMU community to faithfully steward what God has entrusted to them. “So, the first question is not, ‘What do we want Truett McConnell to become?’ The first question is, ‘What has Christ entrusted to us, and how do we steward it faithfully in our generation?’” Lyon said. He also shared his desire to see TMU students pursue excellence while using their influence to serve others.
EDITOR’S NOTE — This story was published by The Christian Index.
