Two Lubbock Christian University alumni were recognized among Lubbock’s emerging leaders on January 23 at the Young Professionals Gala, hosted by the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce, where recipients of the Top Twenty Under 40 Awards were honored.
The annual Young Professionals Gala honors individuals under the age of 40 who are making a significant impact in their careers and communities. Award recipients are selected from active members of the Chamber’s Young Professionals program and are nominated by peers or community leaders based on professional achievement, leadership, and community involvement.
Among this year’s honorees were Robert Brown (’15) and Dr. Connor Bryant (’16), both graduates of Lubbock Christian University whose careers reflect a commitment to service and leadership in the Lubbock community.
Brown earned his degree in Exercise Science from LCU in 2015 and currently serves as Sales Director at Primrose Retirement Communities in Lubbock. In his role, Brown works closely with families to help them navigate senior living options, including independent living, assisted living, and memory care. He also leads business development efforts and cultivates community partnerships throughout Lubbock and the surrounding areas.
Bryant earned his Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies (Middle School Math Education) and Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from LCU. He now serves as an Assistant Professor of Secondary Education at the university, where he teaches undergraduate courses and coordinates three graduate programs: Curriculum and Instruction, Master of Arts in Teaching, and the Lubbock Educator Alt-Cert Program (LEAP). In addition, Bryant has chaired the committee for the LCU Summer Educator Conference for the past two years.
“Our mission statement boldly asserts that Lubbock Christian University is a Christ-centered, academic community of learners transforming the hearts, minds, and hands of students for lives of purpose and service,” said LCU President Dr. Scott McDowell. “Mission statements are only words until they are brought to life by graduates like Connor and Robert. This honor affirms how well they are fulfilling our mission by living lives of purpose and service. We are proud of these men and always thrilled to see our alumni recognized in this way.”
Dr. Kent Gallaher, Chief Academic Officer and Provost, noted Bryant’s impact on campus and beyond.
“Connor is an exemplar for our College of Education and has brought an innovative and entrepreneurial spirit to our campus,” Gallaher said. “He joined our faculty in 2023 and immediately began building programs like LCU LEAP, which helps college graduates complete their teacher certification while teaching full time. He saw a need in our community and worked quickly to meet it. Connor embodies the best that LCU has to offer.”
The Top Twenty Under 40 Awards celebrate professionals who are shaping the future of Lubbock through leadership, service, and innovation. LCU is proud to celebrate Brown and Bryant for the ways they continue to invest in their community and live out the university’s mission beyond graduation.