Ben Lippen School's roots go back 83 years to its beginnings as an evangelical boarding school in the mountains of Asheville, NC. It flourished for over 40 years, but after a fire destroyed one of the school's main buildings in 1980, a decision was made to move the campus to Columbia, SC in 1988. Ben Lippen opened its doors in a new city, still cherishing its long heritage "to know Him and make Him known." We are thankful that what the Lord began in 1940 continues today, and we appreciate the opportunity to connect and share stories from our Asheville alumni. It's especially meaningful when they join us on our Columbia campus.

At the end of April, the Alumni Office hosted the Class of '68 for their reunion. During their visit, they attended chapel where current seniors shared their testimonies and reminisced about preparing their own senior testimonies 55 years ago. The group also took a walk around the CIU campus to see a portrait of Robertson McQuilkin, Columbia International University's first president, painted by classmate Judee Dickinson. They were very impressed by the Ben Lippen campus and how the school continues to honor our Asheville roots. The Fine Arts department even welcomed them to sing their class song, “Day by Day.” The reunion ended with a class meeting and lunch prepared by the Alumni Office.

The Class of '68 spent the following days enjoying Columbia's restaurants, shops, and historic sites. It was wonderful meeting Jean, Judee, Susan, Judy, Chris, Anita, Sinclair, Dave, and Ray and hearing stories of their school days. We are so grateful to have been a part of this special 55th class reunion.