In addition to Gaddis’ role in the KBC, he is also the pastor of Central Baptist Church in nearby Corbin. “Becoming involved in a local church is very important for students while they are away from their home church environment,” remarked Dr. Rick Fleenor, dean of the chapel. Fleenor and Gaddis both invited students to become involved in one of the many churches in the area.

“How are you going to live your life?” asked Gaddis of the students in attendance. “It is now your turn to make your own decisions.” In addition, Gaddis challenged students to not have other people’s faith, but rather, to find and live out their own faith. He also encouraged students to not give in to unnecessary distractions, to not give up, and to not give out and become discouraged.

University of the Cumberlands, located in Williamsburg, Kentucky, is a private liberal arts college in its 118th year of operation. Cumberlands offers four undergraduate degrees in 37 major fields of study, 30 minors and nine pre-professional programs, graduate degrees and certifications in education as well as online programs.