LUBBOCK – More than $25,000 was raised Tuesday night for the Mark and Linda Murdock Endowed Scholarship during Wayland Baptist University’s Denim and Diamonds Scholarship Gala.
Longtime Wayland supporters and civic leaders, Mark and Linda Murdock, were introduced by Dr. Paul Armes, President Emeritus. Their response was met with a standing ovation as those attending the gala at the Overton Hotel expressed their gratitude to the couple. A silent auction got things going at 5:30 p.m., and a gourmet dinner was served at 6:30 p.m. before the program began.
“We are honored to recognize a couple that has had so much positive influence on the community and especially on Wayland and its students,” said Dr. Judy Jarratt, Executive Director of Wayland’s Lubbock campus. “The Denim and Diamonds Scholarship Gala is an opportunity to say thank you to the honorees while establishing a new opportunity to join with them in supporting the university, and especially Lubbock students.”
Dr. Bobby Hall, President, closed out the evening with remarks of appreciation and gratitude. He reminisced about connecting with the couple through Dr. Armes and then serving together during his administration.
An Air National Guard and Air Force veteran, Mark enjoyed a 36-year career with Crossmark, Inc., a sales and marketing company for the food industry. He retired in 1999 after serving as Crossmark’s president for more than 16 years. He serves as a deacon at Southcrest Baptist Church, where he and Linda currently attend. The couple were members of Oakwood Baptist Church for more than 40 years. It was noted that the couple is committed to ensuring future generations of students can receive a quality education in a Christian atmosphere.
With a commitment to academic excellence and a focus on student success, Wayland’s Lubbock campus has been serving the community for more than 50 years. Wayland is a Christian university offering undergraduate and graduate degree programs in fields such as business, education, science, and nursing.
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