Bryan College Honors Community Difference Makers

Dayton, TN — Bryan College hosted its inaugural Difference Maker Award Dinner on January 16, honoring two longtime community leaders, Marvin Keener and Randy Wells, for their exceptional service to Rhea County and the Bryan College community.

Established by Bryan College President Dr. Douglas Mann, the Difference Maker Award honors individuals whose lives reflect faithful service advancing Christ’s Kingdom through meaningful investment in students, the College, and the surrounding community.

Celebrating Difference Makers

“Both men are difference makers,” said Dr. Mann during his opening remarks. “Tonight, we follow the biblical wisdom of giving honor where honor is due by celebrating lives marked by humility, integrity, and faithful service—lives that advance Christ’s Kingdom and reflect the values we seek to instill in our students.”

Honoring Marvin Keener

Marvin Keener served as Vice President of Advancement for Bryan College from 1971 to 1973 and has remained deeply involved in community service throughout his career. He founded Keener Marketing in Dayton, serving numerous Christian organizations, including Tyndale House and Campus Crusade for Christ. During his time at Bryan, Keener led fundraising efforts that helped build Rudd Chapel and Woodlee-Ewing Dormitory, both of which remain central to campus life today. He has also been actively involved with Lions Club International and multiple community initiatives benefiting underserved individuals.

Dr. Jim Woychuk ’80, pastor of Grace Bible Church, highlighted Keener’s lasting influence, noting that thousands of students shaped by Bryan College’s mission owe him their thanks.

Honoring Randy Wells

Randy Wells serves the community through leadership roles with United Way, the Chamber of Commerce, WeCare, and the Dayton Rotary Club, where he was president three times. He also serves on the board of MainStreet Dayton and as board president of the Rhea Medical Healthcare Foundation. Wells recently retired after 22 years at SouthEast Bank as Senior Vice President. Under his leadership, the SouthEast Bank Scholarship was established to benefit Bryan College students, with more than $300,000 ($304,500) contributed to student scholarships and other needs of the College.

Wells was introduced by Janice Pendergrass, a longtime friend and fellow Rotary Club member, who spoke to his heart for service, saying, “He genuinely loves our community and feels called to serve.”

Looking Ahead

In closing, Dr. Mann reflected on the importance of honoring leaders whose lives align with Bryan College’s mission of educating students to become servants of Christ in today’s world. As the College looks ahead to honoring future Difference Makers, Keener and Wells stand as clear examples of faithful service that advances Christ’s Kingdom through lasting impact on students and community.