Kimily Waldron, Baptist Collegiate Ministry (BCM) Director at Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College, has announced her retirement at the end of May. Her devotion to collegiate ministry spans nearly four decades and eight different campuses across Oklahoma as well as seven years on campuses in Arizona and Mississippi.
Fellow BCM leaders, both current and former, gathered in early May to honor her at the annual BCM leadership retreat. A few colleagues gave speeches at the event sharing fun and meaningful stories while also paying tribute to her keen sense of humor. Each speaker noted Waldron’s deep love for the Lord and for her students. They spoke of her servant’s heart, her willingness to help anyone in need, and her perseverance. They applauded her consistent obedience to God over the years, through good times and bad.
Cris Lowery, former State BCM Director for Oklahoma Baptists, highlighted her ability to connect deeply with people. “Kimily sees the person that most people walk right by,” he said. “And she doesn’t just see them. She stops and talks to them, she becomes friends with them.”
Former student Staci Montgomery agrees. “I remember Kimily with great fondness. Her kindness and welcoming smile made the (then BSU) feel like a refuge on our campus,” she said. “Her life is marked by the joy of the Lord, and being around her was both refreshing and encouraging.”
Waldron’s nurturing nature has made a mark on many lives, even among her peers. “Kimily showed the love of Christ to all her students and colleagues by meeting them exactly where they were – offering a listening ear, compassion, and wise counsel,” said Pauline Boren, BCM Director at Oklahoma City University. “That was shown to me as a student, as a colleague, and even now as a friend. She has been a constant support with her words of encouragement, guidance, and prayer.”
Waldron shared her desire to continue in ministry after she retires. “I would really like to go and serve overseas,” she said, noting that she is looking into the Masters program offered by the International Mission Board as one potential option. Her passion for missions has made itself evident through her continual investment in the lives of international students on campus and as she led numerous groups on international and domestic mission trips over the years. “I am so grateful for my time in BCM, and I’m excited about my next chapter, because that’s truly what this is – a new chapter,” said Waldron, adding with her signature smile, “God’s not finished with me yet!”
“Kimily has faithfully served on various campuses throughout Oklahoma and has made a lasting impact wherever she has served,” said Chad Coleman, State BCM Director for Oklahoma Baptists. “We are thankful for her devotion to investing in the next generation and look forward to seeing how the Lord will continue to use her.”
The Apostle Paul’s greeting to the Thessalonians reflects the heart of Waldron’s colleagues toward her and her ministry. “We give thanks to God always for… you, constantly mentioning you in our prayers, remembering before our God and Father your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Thessalonians 1:2-3)
Thirty-seven years. Twelve campuses. Countless students. One incredible legacy of faithfulness.
