Honorary Alumna of the Year
Beth Hixson has spent her entire life in Rhea and Bledsoe counties, where she was raised on a 100-acre family farm by her parents, Alvin and JoAnne Shaver. Growing up in a family of six, she learned the values of hard work, responsibility, and teamwork through daily farm life—feeding livestock, gathering eggs, working in the hayfield and garden, canning, mowing, and caring for the home. Beth credits her parents for instilling the strong work ethic and servant’s heart that have defined her life.
An active 4-H member, Beth earned numerous awards showing chickens and sheep, including District Grand Champion Market Lamb twice, State Reserve Grand Champion Breeding Ewe, and multiple Showmanship honors.
While in high school, Beth met her husband, Lynn, and they have now shared 44 wonderful years of marriage. Together they have two daughters and a son-in-law, all proud graduates of Bryan College.
Beth accepted Christ as her Savior in March 1975 during a revival at Ogden Baptist Church on Dayton Mountain, led by Alan Winkler ’60, and was later baptized in a nearby pond. Since then, she and Lynn have faithfully served their church in many ministries, especially with children.
In July 2001, Beth joined the Bryan College family in the Financial Aid Office. She witnessed the move back into the newly rebuilt Mercer Hall following the 2000 fire and, twenty-five years later, helped lead another transition to the Stophel Center. Though leaving Mercer Hall was bittersweet, Beth embraced the change with the confidence that “God has a plan.”
Beth and Lynn also served for many years as residence hall parents, investing in students whose lives they continue to follow with joy. In 2006, Beth was recognized as Bryan College’s Staff Member of the Fall.
For twenty-five years, Beth has faithfully served Bryan students and their families with compassion, wisdom, and unwavering dedication. Through her quiet leadership, humble spirit, and steadfast faith, she has touched countless lives and exemplified the mission of Bryan College. It is with deep gratitude and admiration that Bryan College recognizes Beth Hixson as the Honorary Alumnus of the Year.