Faulkner University awarded an honorary Doctor of Christian Education to Cecil May Jr. at his home in Montgomery on Friday. The ceremony was attended by Faulkner President Mitch Henry, Dr. Dave Rampersad, and several deans, faculty members, and university leaders.
A resolution read at the event highlighted May’s distinguished career as a teacher, elder, and minister of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. It also acknowledged his long-standing service to Faulkner University, where he served as an instructor, dean, and servant leader.
The resolution praised May’s efforts to educate students not only in the classroom but also through his books, newsletters, and articles in various publications within the Churches of Christ. It also recognized his dedication to education through his recent retirement.
The resolution concluded with the Board of Trustees’ Executive Committee recommending the conferral of the honorary doctorate, stating, “Be it therefore resolved that the Executive Committee of the Board of Trustees of Faulkner University does hereby recommend the conferral upon Cecil May, Jr. of an honorary doctorate as Doctor of Christian Education.”
Dr. May served as the dean of the V.P. Black College of Biblical Studies at Faulkner for 15 years, retiring in May 2013. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in biblical languages from Harding University, a Master of Arts, and a Master of Divinity degree from Harding University Graduate School of Theology. May was also awarded an honorary LL.D. from Freed-Hardeman University.
May’s extensive career includes serving as president of Magnolia Bible College, dean of Heritage Christian University, and Bible teacher at Columbia Christian College. He has ministered at several congregations in Mississippi and Oregon. Additionally, he was the editor of Preacher Talk and authored the “Finally Brethren” column for The Gospel Advocate, as well as a “Bible Questions Answered” column in the Magnolia Messenger. May also published Bible Questions Answered through Faulkner University’s Pillar Press.
