Hannibal-LaGrange College hosts 63rd Booster Banquet
By Brandy Campbell
HLG Public Relations
December 9, 2004
Hannibal — Hannibal-LaGrange College hosted the 63rd annual Booster Banquet Nov. 19, as guest speaker Dennis Swanberg, a nationally recognized speaker and comedian, spoke to a crowd of nearly 700 people.
Known as America’s “Minister of Encouragement,” Swanberg’s comedy ranged from Barney Fife impersonations to stories of growing up in central Texas. His nationally broadcast television show, “Swan’s Place,” is viewed by more than one million households. Each year he speaks to more than 200,000 people at events across the nation, teaching the importance of joy.
“I try to bring people laughter, but my point is always that joy is a choice,” said Swanberg. “Happiness is dependent on what happens, but joy is a choice. It takes an act of your will. I want people to enjoy life, and one way you can enjoy life is by helping other people enjoy life.”
Though his southern twang and “Lord have mercy’s” prompted chuckles, Swanberg also spoke seriously about the benefits supporting Christian education.
“When you support a school like Hannibal-LaGrange, you are equipping students to be lights on a hill,” said Swanberg. “Invest in the Kingdom work of God where it goes on and on. Invest in the lives of others. I received a Christian education because folks years ago gave and believed. May God bless you for what you’re doing in this place that will impact eternity.”
Also at the Booster Banquet two HLG trustees were honored. Robert O. Parker was awarded the 2004 Nelson Fellowship Award. Parker began serving as an HLG trustee in 1966, and was given an honorary doctorate by HLG in 1980. He and his wife, Burlene, reside in Hannibal and are active members at Immanuel Baptist Church.
Alberta Hagerman was given the Academy of Charitable Giving Award. Hagerman serves as the secretary of the board of trustees. She has been described as a “modern-day Martha” after many years of sacrificial giving. The Hagerman House, which currently houses missionaries-in-residence at HLG, is named after Alberta.
Next year’s Booster Banquet is scheduled for Nov. 18. For more information about upcoming events at HLG, call 1-800-HLG-1119.