PLAINVIEW — Christie Cox-Lujan, who etched her name into a newly poured campus sidewalk as a student more than 30 years ago, scored her place in Wayland Baptist University’s history Monday as soloist for Lead Me, Lord, the Song of Testimony at the inauguration of Dr. Donna Hedgepath, the university’s 14th president.
The solo prompted Dr. Hedgepath, who holds a Doctorate in Music Education from the University of Kentucky, to give Cox-Lujan a thumbs up in the middle of the performance. Those attending the ceremony at Harral Memorial Auditorium loudly applauded the soloist and the Inauguration Choir, prompting Dr. Cindy McClenagan, Vice President of Academic Affairs, to stop the ceremony to ask for Cox-Lujan’s name.
During a stroll through Wayland’s Plainview campus after the investiture ceremony, Cox-Lujan found her name in the sidewalk next to the Moody Science Building. During the span of 30-plus years, her life and relationship with Wayland have come full circle.
Reflecting on Cox-Lujan’s performance, Dr. Sarah Herrington, Assistant Professor of Music Education and Director of Choral Studies, shared, “I knew her vocal abilities through assisting with vocal competition rehearsals at Lubbock High School, where she teaches, and knew she was the right voice for this particular solo.”
Cox-Lujan’s journey with Wayland began in the fall semester of 1992 as a vocal music education major. Her path was anything but conventional. After marrying her high school sweetheart, she left Wayland in 1994, about a year after she and other students etched their names in the sidewalk. Relocating several times due to her husband’s military service, she continued to nurture her love for music and served as a church choir director as she lived in Colorado Springs, Aviano, Italy, Albuquerque, N.M.
Her return to Wayland in 2002 was marked by warm support, which helped her secure a scholarship and student housing. Two years later, she graduated with a Bachelor of Music degree, emphasizing Vocal Music Education.
Since then, Cox-Lujan has built a teaching career spanning all grade levels and even a college course. From elementary music in Keller, Texas, to middle and high school choirs in Springtown, Waco, and Midland, she has honed her skills as a music educator. Her journey, which included earning a master’s degree in Choral Conducting from Texas Christian University, has been a testament to her resilience and passion for music.
Dr. Hedgepath expressed her gratitude for the moving performance of Lead Me, Lord, saying, “Christie’s voice brought a special warmth to an already momentous day. Her journey reflects the spirit of Wayland—overcoming challenges and coming full circle to inspire others.”
For Cox-Lujan, performing at the inauguration was more than just a return to campus; it was a moment to celebrate the enduring bond she shares with the Wayland family. “Wayland was a home that welcomed me back when I needed it most. Standing on that stage reminded me of the power of faith, resilience, and community,” she said.
Cox-Lujan’s voice left an indelible mark on the ceremony and reminded everyone present of the transformative power of music and the strength of the Wayland legacy.
Copyright © 2024