Richmont Annual Report 2023-2024 - Flipbook - Page 14
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ANNUAL REPORT 2024
RICHMONT GRADUATE UNIVERSITY
Through generous funding from the John Templeton Foundation and the Eudokias Foundation, Richmont is combining
service offerings from both the School of Ministry and the School of Counseling to create the Spiritual First Responders
Project. This project advances mental health interventions for spiritual thriving and well-being among those who are
experiencing mental distress, including those experiencing spiritual struggles, church hurt, and faith deconstruction.
Studies indicate that individuals experiencing changes in their faith
often struggle with some of the lowest mental health scores. The Spiritual
First Responders project provides a sanctuary for those unraveling the
complexities of faith deconstruction while still yearning for meaningful
spiritual experiences. The project, taking place over 3 years, utilizes a
team of 2 theologians, 5 psychologists, and 10 clinical mental health
counselors to research the effectiveness of spiritual practices fused with
mental healthcare in group settings for the spiritual flourishing of those
experiencing deconstruction.
Richmont’s President Receives Inaugural Sharp Leadership Award
President Timothy Qu innan was honored by receiving the inaugural Sharp Leadership Award at the 2024 Commencement
ceremony. Trustee Tom Decosimo of Chattanooga and Board Chair Ann Keller of Atlanta jointly sponsored this new
award to recognize extraordinary leadership contributions which “leave an indelible mark in the Parade of Providence
that defines Richmont.”
The title of this new award, Sharp, refers to the multi-generational impact
of both the Sharp and Gillespie families who have been instrumental to the
University’s longevity and success. Given their legacy, it is only fitting that the
Sharp name was used to celebrate today’s leaders whose “…determination and
ability to accomplish the seemingly impossible” enable Richmont to flourish.
In acknowledging the award, Dr. Qu innan stated that “serving at Richmont
these last seven years has been the most exhilarating of my career. It’s a privilege
I never take for granted and thank the Lord for every day.” He arrived in 2017
and has led the University in achieving record levels of enrollment, acquiring
external grant awards and governmental recognition, and maintaining
academic excellence. Dr. Qu innan also authored the University’s strategic plans,
launched a thriving online degree program, added the first doctoral program in
school history, and secured gold-standard recognition for Richmont by both
state accreditation agencies and profession-specific licensing boards.