William A. Griffin (Christian churches and churches of Christ)

William A. Griffin is an American preacher associated with the Restoration Movement of Christianity. He was the second President of Mid-Atlantic Christian University (known as Roanoke Bible College until 2009), serving from 1986 to 2006. Griffin was awarded the Order of the Long Leaf Pine in 2010.

Not to be confused with William A. Griffin (Roman Catholic bishop).

Early life and education

Griffin was raised in the Christian churches and churches of Christ in Hyde County, North Carolina. He was significantly influenced by the impact that Mid-Atlantic Christian University had on eastern North Carolina, greatly increasing the number of preachers in the region.[1] Griffin graduated from Mid-Atlantic Christian University in 1962 and later returned as an instructor. He became Dean of Students in 1975.[2] He also completed degrees at East Carolina University, Cincinnati Christian University, and The College of William and Mary.[3]

Mid-Atlantic Christian University

Griffin became the President of Mid-Atlantic Christian University in 1986, following the retirement of George W. BonDurant.[4][5] His term was marked by significant expansions in campus facilities and Academic programs offered.[6] Under Griffin's leadership, Mid-Atlantic Christian University received its first regional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools in 1999.[7] Griffin was also successful in increasing fund raising.[8] Griffin resigned in 2006, but continued to serve as a professor and advisor for the University.[9] He supported the University's name change in 2009.[10]

Griffin was awarded the Order of the Long Leaf Pine on March 18, 2010 by North Carolina Governor Bev Perdue for his work at Mid-Atlantic Christian University and his contributions to the state.[11][12]

Other activities

Continuing his passion for preaching, Griffin still organizes preaching for churches without preachers in North Carolina and eastern Virginia.[3]

Griffin and his wife have operated an embroidery business since 2007.[11]

Preceded by
George W. BonDurant		 President of Mid-Atlantic Christian University
1986—2006		 Succeeded by
D. Clay Perkins

References
  1. "MACU Founder Awarded Long Leaf Pine". Dailyadvance.com. 2009-12-03. Retrieved 2010-12-08.
  2. King, Lauren (2006-05-06). "Retiring president honored for work at Roanoke Bible College". The Virginian-Pilot. Norfolk, VA. Retrieved 2010-02-26.
  3. "Messenger Fall 2009" (PDF). Macuniversity.edu. 2009-09-13. Retrieved 2010-12-08.
  4. "ECSU Magazine - 4.2.pmd" (PDF). Ecsu.edu. Retrieved 2010-12-08.
  5. "Archived copy" (PDF). Archived from the original (PDF) on May 27, 2010. Retrieved February 24, 2010.CS1 maint: archived copy as title (link)
  6. King, Lauren (2008-04-07). "Bible college marks 60 years of service filling minister void". The Virginian-Pilot. Norfolk, VA. Retrieved 2010-02-26.
  7. "Archived copy". Archived from the original on September 27, 2007. Retrieved February 22, 2010.CS1 maint: archived copy as title (link)
  8. Rabey, Frank (2000-08-12). "ROANOKE BIBLE COLLEGE RECEIVES $1.5 MILLION GIFT". The Virginian-Pilot. Norfolk, VA. Retrieved 2010-02-26.
  9. © May 6, 2006 (2006-05-06). "Retiring president honored for work at Roanoke Bible College | HamptonRoads.com | PilotOnline.com". HamptonRoads.com. Retrieved 2010-12-08.CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list (link)
  10. Hampton, Jeff (2009-05-03). "N.C. Christian college changes name, aims to triple enrollment | HamptonRoads.com | PilotOnline.com". HamptonRoads.com. Retrieved 2010-12-08.
  11. "Griffin Receives Long Leaf Pine". Dailyadvance.com. 2010-05-03. Retrieved 2010-12-08.
  12. "Messenger Summer 2010" (PDF). Macuniversity.edu. 2010-06-02. Retrieved 2010-12-19.
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