SPRINGFIELD, Missouri – The Department of Theology & Global Church Ministries at Evangel University has announced its 2026 graduation awards. The awards were presented during the traditional undergraduate baccalaureate service held on Thursday, May 7 in the Robert H. Spence Chapel.
The Theology Department houses the undergraduate programs of Evangel’s embedded seminary, the Assemblies of God Theological Seminary (AGTS).
Students have the benefit of enhanced ministerial education in a variety of traditional and accelerated formats, from bachelor’s to doctoral degrees in Biblical Languages, Biblical Studies, Children’s Ministries, Church Leadership, Intercultural Studies, Philosophy, and Youth Ministries. Students are also able to complete a bachelor’s and a master’s degree at AGTS in just five years through its Fast Track program.
The following awards were presented:
W.I. Evans Outstanding Graduate Award
Travis Peak
Twila Brown Edwards Woman of Distinction Award
Ruby Mitchell
The Renee Griffith Grantham Memorial Award
Kaden Clark
Outstanding Graduate in Biblical Languages
Michael Rodgers
Outstanding Graduate in Biblical Studies
Eden J. Fagerland
Outstanding Graduate in Children’s Ministries
Ellie Thrailkill
Outstanding Graduate in Church Leadership
BilliJo Middendorp
Outstanding Graduates in Intercultural Studies
Joy Keleher, Travis Peak
Outstanding Graduate in Philosophy
Gideon Sutherland
Outstanding Graduate in Youth Ministries
Miriam Howard
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About Evangel University
Evangel University, with the Assemblies of God Theological Seminary (AGTS), is a comprehensive, Spirit-led Christian university in Springfield, Missouri. It is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the Council for Christian Colleges & Universities. Under the leadership of Dr. Mike Rakes, Evangel educates and equips students to serve the Church and society globally.
Recent recognition includes:
- Top 15% of Christian Colleges in America — Niche (2026)
- Top Performer in Social Mobility — U.S. News & World Report (2026)
- Best Christian University — Colleges of Distinction (2026)
Evangel also holds program accreditations in business, counseling, music, social work, and theology, and is certified as an Excellence in Giving university. Learn more at evangel.edu.