Bob Jones University held the 13th annual Criminal Justice Challenge Coin Ceremony Thursday, May 7, recognizing graduates of BJU’s criminal justice program. The ceremony took place at 4 p.m. in Levinson Hall on the BJU campus.
During the ceremony, graduating seniors received a BJU Criminal Justice Challenge Coin, a symbol of achievement and professional recognition rooted in the traditions of military and law enforcement service. The front of the coin is engraved with the phrase “Standing Valiantly for Christ” and an emblematic banner bearing Scripture from Romans 3:14. The reverse side features the University’s name and crest, reflecting the biblical worldview and character development emphasized in BJU’s liberal arts education.
“Dr. Jared Linebach, David Davis and I are honored to present our graduates of 2026 with their challenge coins as a tangible reminder of the challenges they have overcome to prepare for the criminal justice field,” said Lance Crowe, associate professor of criminal justice at BJU. “Regardless of their destination, each of our students has been equipped to serve others more effectively through pursuing justice from a biblical perspective as a higher calling.”
“It is our hope their challenge coins will always remind them of our congratulations and endorsement on this day, while also serving as a token of our pledge to pray for them as they use what they have learned at BJU wherever the Lord calls them to serve.”
The challenge coin also serves as a lasting reminder of each graduate’s commitment to represent Christ faithfully in the criminal justice profession.
In addition, Caitlynn Schaub and Misha Gray received the Allen Jacobs Memorial Award. Established in memory of Greenville Police Department Officer Allen Jacobs, who was killed in the line of duty in 2016, the award recognizes outstanding criminal justice students. Each recipient received $2,000.
Dr. Jeff Webb, associate pastor at Lebanon Baptist Church and former chaplain for the Greenville Police Department, delivered the keynote address.
Graduates of BJU’s criminal justice program pursue careers in local, state and federal law enforcement, corrections and related fields, with many entering agencies that actively recruit BJU students for their training, character preparation and commitment to service.
