HR1406: HR1406 Brewton-Parker Christian University; commend

This is a ceremonial resolution from the Georgia House of Representatives, not a change to state law. It recounts the history of Brewton-Parker Christian University, founded in 1904 as Union Baptist Institute with help from a land donation by Warren C. Crawley, Sr., a formerly enslaved man, and describes the school's recent growth in enrollment, facilities, and academic offerings. The resolution formally recognizes that the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges approved the school's shift from Brewton-Parker College to Brewton-Parker Christian University, effective July 1, 2025. It also commends Dr. Steven F. Echols for his leadership during this transition and directs the Clerk of the House to send copies of the resolution to the university and to Dr. Echols.

• Formally honors Brewton-Parker Christian University for its history, Georgia Baptist heritage, and Christian-centered education mission.
• Commends Dr. Steven F. Echols by name for his leadership in guiding the school through its transition to university status.
• Directs the Clerk of the House of Representatives to prepare and distribute copies of the resolution to the university and to Dr. Echols.
• Does not create, amend, or repeal any Georgia statute; it has no legal or regulatory effect.

The resolution directly names and honors Brewton-Parker Christian University, located in Georgia, and its president, Dr. Steven F. Echols. It does not impose obligations on any other individuals, businesses, or government agencies.

As a ceremonial resolution, this measure does not change any law or funding; its practical effect is limited to a public statement of recognition from the Georgia House and the distribution of commemorative copies to the university and its president.

• The whereas clauses recount the university's 1904 founding as Union Baptist Institute and the land donation by Warren C. Crawley, Sr.
• The resolution notes the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges approved the school's transition to university status effective July 1, 2025.
• The first resolving clause formally honors Brewton-Parker Christian University for its history and educational mission.
• A second resolving clause commends Dr. Steven F. Echols specifically for his leadership during the transition.
• A final clause directs the Clerk of the House to distribute copies of the resolution to the university and to Dr. Echols.

1. 2026-02-18House Read and Adopted (House)
2. 2026-02-18House First Readers (House)
3. 2026-02-18House Hopper (House)

• Leesa Hagan (R, HD-156)Primary sponsor
• Angie O'Steen (R, HD-169)

• higher education
• Georgia colleges and universities
• ceremonial resolutions
• Brewton-Parker Christian University