Southwestern Christian University Chairman Dr. Dan Beller announced his retirement May 14. Beller has served as the Chairman of the Board of Regents for 13 years.

"At my age, I knew it was time for me to retire," said Beller. "I love this university immensely and will continue to support and assist in fundraising efforts moving forward."

The university has appointed David Burrows as the new chairman effective immediately. Burrows is president of the Burrows-Muse Agency, Inc. in Enid, Okla. He is also an SCU alum.

Burrows has served on the Board of Regents for the past decade and as the vice-chairman for the past year.

"It is my desire to see Southwestern live out the full expression of the founding fathers' vision and continue to build a Christian liberal-arts university of excellence," said Burrows.

SCU President Dr. Ed Huckeby said Burrows is "distinguished graduate of SCU whose love and devotion for the institution is evident. I look forward to working with him and our other board members to accomplish the quality enhancement and growth objectives we have set for the future.”

Accredited by the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education and the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges, Southwestern Christian University is a Christian liberal-arts university located in Bethany, Oklahoma. Since its founding in 1946, Southwestern has continued to focus on its primary mission of providing students a Christ-centered education, equipping them for a life of learning, leadership and service.

Lydia Fellowship International recently announced the appointment of Rev. Felicia Bush to the office of National Coordinator USA for the organization. Bush is an ordained minister with the Georgia Conference.

"Felicia has been involved with Lydia for many years and has proven herself to be faithful to our vision and loyal to our leadership," said Joan Phillips, international coordinator of Lydia Fellowship. " I consider it a great honour to have such a gifted and capable woman lead the work of Lydia in the USA and I look forward to working with her."

Lydia Fellowship International was founded in 1970 in England and later spread across the world. The organization gets its name from Paul's mention of "an encounter with Lydia" in Acts 15. Lydia Fellowship International provides resources for women who want a deeper, more meaningful prayer life.

To learn more, visit their website.

Alternative to Abortion Ministries has announced the return of founders Marvin and Joyce Whitfield. Marvin will serve as the General Coordinator of Alternative to Abortion Ministries (ATAM), and Joyce will serve as the director of The Royal Home.

The Whitfields retired from full-time ministry several years ago. Earlier this year, former director Rev. Jim Hight left to accept a full-time position at a local church, and the ATAM Board of Directors asked the Whitfields to consider returning to the ministry.

The Royal Home is a maternity home located in Salemburg, N.C. The home provides housing and education for teenage girls facing unplanned pregnancy. Their mission is to offer Birth Mothers and their unborn babies the necessary support, care, and encouragement to ensure their health and to provide future opportunities to set appropriate goals and make wise decisions that will chart their "course in life."