Mitchell appointed Dean of the College H arding's College of Bible and Religion played an important role in the lives of students pursuing careers in the area of Biblical studies. There were four main areas in the College of Bible and Religion: Biblical Languages, ReJigious Education, Vocational Ministry and Bible and Religion, with a special program f~)f women. Mitchell spent the year trying to strictly focus the curriculum for Bible related majors. Mitchell explained, "In the past we have allowed our Bible majors to attend classes that are intended for students with many different kinds of majors. We're now trying to single out our Bible students so that we can focus more attention on them." Mitchell hoped this improvement would help students better prepare for jobs in the ministry. I BEFORE E EXCEPT AFTER . Bill Lambert, associate professor of Bible, teaches a class in the English department. Lambert served double duty, teaching both Bible and English. - Photo by Sharon Bowles. "ONCE UPON A TIME Dr. Carl Mitchell lectures to a class. This fall Mitchell assumed the position of Dean of the College of Bible and Religion. - Photo by Sharon Bowles. COLLEGE OF BIBLE AND RELIGION Another part of Mitchell's growth process was the implementation of an internship program. Under the direction of Don Shackelford, Mitchell saw the newly created Church Relations office as a way to help with the problem of decreasing enrollment for Bible majors. "I hope we can offer our students an opportunity to work with a local congregation while they remain students." Harding's program was unique, as Mitchell said, "We are the only university in the brotherhood with a school of Biblical studies." A large percentage of the undergraduate students in the department chose to continue their educational pursuits through the graduate program in Memphis. The department also offered students opportunities to participate in activities that would enrich and encourage their growth. retreats, seminars, lectureships and campaigns give students a chance to practice what they've learned in the classroom. With a staff of 22, the department was excited about the changes as well as the traditions that have helped create the unique atmosphere in the College of Bible and Religion and, according to Mitchell, "is one of the best programs in the brotherhood." - Virgil Walker 284 Endless Guidance
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