JACKSON, Tenn. — May 3, 2010 — Thom Rainer, president of LifeWay Christian Resources in Nashville, Tenn., will be the keynote speaker for 51社区鈥檚 185th annual spring commencement ceremony May 22.
鈥淭hom Rainer is one of the most respected leaders in Baptist life and the broader evangelical world,鈥� 51社区 President David S. Dockery said. 鈥淲e are pleased to call him a friend of 51社区. His recent work on the millennial generation has received national attention, and thus it is a wonderful and timely thing that Dr. Rainer can join us for such a significant occasion.鈥�
Prior to beginning his leadership role with LifeWay in 2006, Rainer served as dean of the Billy Graham School of Missions, Evangelism and Church Growth at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Ky. He is the author or co-author of 18 books, including such titles as 鈥淪imple Life,鈥� 鈥淓ssential Church,鈥� 鈥淩aising Dad鈥� and 鈥淪imple Church.鈥�
Rainer holds a Doctor of Philosophy degree in evangelism and a Master of Divinity degree from SBTS. He earned a bachelor鈥檚 degree from the University of Alabama. Rainer and his wife Nellie Jo have three sons.
鈥淎s author, speaker and leader, Dr. Rainer has been an instrument of grace and guidance to many, and I have no doubt that he will be so as he brings the challenge for the members of the class of 2010, along with their friends and family who will be present at this year's commencement service,鈥� Dockery said.
The graduation ceremony will begin at 6 p.m. on the university鈥檚 Great Lawn.