Vintage Dedication Citation
Ray St. John is a leader—both in the University and in the local church. He has taught at Bob Jones for nearly 50 years and served as the pastor of Trinity Baptist Church in Gaffney, South Carolina, since 1987. Both roles require dedication, time, and selflessness, but Dr. St. John’s strong administrative skills and tireless commitment to serving God have enabled him to carry out all of his responsibilities faithfully.
After receiving his Bachelor’s in English from Bob Jones in 1963, Dr. St. John taught English as a graduate assistant while earning his master’s degree in Christian education. Later he earned an MA in English from the University of Michigan as well as a PhD in American literature from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
Having served as director of the freshman English program, he later became the head of the English department and eventually the Chair of the Division of English Language and Literature. His influence pervades the entire university family: from faculty to students, from seniors to freshmen. He instructs undergraduate students, giving them the foundation for analytical thinking and effective communication; he mentors graduate assistants, teaching them how to lay that foundation.
Dr. St. John speaks deliberately, succinctly, and with conviction. His competency and proficiency command respect in the classroom. His character and drive have helped to lay the foundation for the University’s Division of English. And his deep desire to serve the Lord motivates him to pour himself into both his students and his congregation at Trinity Baptist Church. He is an effective leader in both the pulpit and the classroom.
In recognition of his Christ-like leadership and tireless spirit of service, the 2012 Vintage staff takes pride in dedicating this yearbook to Dr. Ray St. John.
Published May 2, 2012