158th Founders Day speaker Bishop Jones

At 11 a.m. on February 11, Baker University will celebrate its origin in an annual celebration dedicated to the school’s 1858 founding by what is now the United Methodist Church. Bishop Scott Jones will deliver the keynote address at the event, which is titled “A Faithful Legacy,” and celebrates Baker’s longstanding relationship with the church. The event will include performances from the Baker University Concert Choir.

Jones serves as the Bishop of the Great Plains Conference of the United Methodist Church, presiding over Kansas and Nebraska. He was elected to this position in 2004 after spending eight years with the World Methodist Council. In addition to his position, Jones also serves as an ex-officio trustee of Baker University. He is highly revered in the area, having spent seven years preaching and teaching throughout the United States, Europe, Africa and Asia and is a published author. Jones has been both a United Methodist pastor and university professor, and will speak about the importance of higher education in the United Methodist Church.

The Rev. Kevin Hopkins, Minister to the University, believes Jones’ passion for the church and his background in education will reinforce the message of this year’s Founders Day ceremony — to lift up Baker’s beginnings and current relationship with the church.

Dr. Lynne Murray, university president, is looking forward to showcasing Baker University’s core values.

“We are truly blessed with a great community here at Baker University,” Murray said. “This celebration is a time to remember that, while also delving into our Methodist roots. Bishop Scott Jones will be an important part of the ceremony and we are honored to be hosting him.”

The celebration will be held at Baldwin First United Methodist Church in Baldwin City and is open to all Baker students, faculty, staff, alumni and community members. Lunch will be provided after the ceremony in the Susanne Teel Dining Hall.