GREENVILLE, S.C. (May 9, 2025) – Bob Jones University held the 12th annual Criminal Justice Challenge Coin Ceremony Thursday, May 8, for graduates of BJU’s criminal justice program. The ceremony was held in Levinson Hall at 4 p.m. on the BJU campus.
“We are honored to present the criminal justice graduates of 2025 with their challenge coins as a lasting reminder of our time together at BJU,” said Lance Crowe, criminal justice faculty and program coordinator. “It is our hope their challenge coins will always remind them of our congratulations and blessings on their graduation day, while also serving as a token of our pledge to pray for them as they use what they have learned at Bob Jones University wherever the Lord calls them to serve.”
During the ceremony, graduating seniors were presented with a BJU Criminal Justice Challenge Coin. The front of the coin is engraved with the phrase “Standing Valiantly for Christ” and an emblematic banner bearing the scripture from Romans 3:14. The reverse side features the university’s name and crest, symbolizing the heritage and biblical worldview foundational to BJU’s liberal arts education and character development in preparation for effective service to Christ and the community.
The challenge coin holds significant historical value in both the military and law enforcement. Receiving a challenge coin is considered a prestigious honor, symbolizing professional recognition. The BJU challenge coin is designed to represent the law enforcement profession and serve as a lasting reminder of a graduate’s commitment to faithfully representing the Lord in the criminal justice field.
Additionally, Renee Celio and Emalie Floyd received the Allen Jacobs Memorial Award. The award was established in memory of Officer Allen Jacobs of the Greenville Police Department who was killed in the line of duty in 2016. Both of this year’s recipients received $2,000.
Chief John Milby of the Furman Police Department delivered the keynote address.
“Whether as law enforcement officers, victims’ advocates, social service providers, or in any other professional calling, we believe our students leave BJU motivated, trained, and equipped to serve others more effectively through a biblical worldview,” said Crowe.
