Reverend Gary Fry, vice president for Church Relations since February 2012, has announced his plans to retire from Welch College in August of this year. Mr. Fry served the college establishing and developing relationships with churches across the nation in an effort to raise awareness of the college’s needs while also looking for ways the college could be of service to pastors and churches. In addition to traveling for the college, he served as public relations coach for traveling music groups and also worked to promote the online program.
Before coming to Welch, Mr. Fry, a 1972 Welch College graduate, served as the Missouri State Association executive director, pastored Mountain Grove Free Will Baptist Church for 23 years, and served on the Welch College Board of Trustees for 12 years, 10 as chairman.
Fry said, “I have certainly enjoyed my time at Welch. There is not a better group of people with which to work. Were it not for my failing health, I would continue to serve the Lord here. These are exciting times at the college. We have a growing student body, and there is a great spirit on campus. The administration and board are moving the college forward toward relocation. It’s a great day to be a part of the Welch family!”
President Matt Pinson said, “We are saddened to see Brother Fry retire. Gary Fry represents what Welch College is all about. His service as a member and chairman of the Board of Trustees, and now as a vice president, have been outstanding. He has served, and will continue to serve, as a valued advisor and friend to me and the college. His commitment to Welch College and his understanding of its mission are second to none.”
Vice President for Institutional Advancement David Williford said, “Gary Fry has been a friend, a confidant, a counselor, and an outstanding representative for Welch College. On a personal level, I will miss him. On a professional level, all of us will miss his insight, wisdom, and the skills he brought to bear as he shared Welch’s story with the churches of our denomination. Gary served faithfully in spite of health issues that often made it difficult on him. My prayer is that God will give him a fruitful ministry in his retirement years, because, even though Gary will be slowing his pace, he will never cease to labor in the work of the kingdom.”
Reverend Fry and his wife Shirley plan to make their home in Mountain Grove, Missouri, where he will provide pulpit supply and continue to represent Welch College as a regional representative.