LCU holds inauguration for President Dr. Mark Johnson
Christ and community were celebrated Thursday evening at the inauguration ceremony for Louisiana Christian University’s 10th President Dr. Mark Johnson.
Dr. Tommy Kiker, chair of the Board of Trustees, delivered the Inaugural Oath and Installment, and said Johnson came to LCU at a time of “sacred intersection of calling and responsibility.”
“You are called to lead the university into the future with conviction and courage,” Kiker said. “Lead LCU to flourish for generations to come.”
The invocation was offered by Johnson’s father Dr. Henry L. Johnson III, along with a scripture by his youngest son, Benjamin.
Dr. Jamie Dew, president of the New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, delivered the keynote address and the Presidential Charge.
“When I first met you, I knew immediately you would be president somewhere of something,” Dew said, remarking on Johnson’s “energy, charisma, leadership and charm.”
Dew encouraged Johnson to “keep your heart and your life right before God” as positions of power or attention can corrupt. “Love the Lord Jesus with all your heart.”
“Every aspect of the school is under your purview,” Dew said. “Some things are heavy, but don’t lose sight of the most important work. That’s people. Your students are your actual work.”
The focus of the evening, however, wasn’t just about Johnson and the university, but about the community coming together to celebrate a collective spirit of cooperation—and moving into the future in unity.
Members from the religious, educational, political and business communities spoke, offering both congratulations, thanks and encouragement to Johnson and his wife, Heather.
They included Executive Director of Louisiana Baptists Dr. Steve Horn, Senior Pastor of Franklin Avenue Baptist Church of New Orleans Fred Luter, President Emeritus of NOBTS Dr. Chuck Kelley, Rapides Parish School Board Superintendent Dr. Jeff Powell, retired President of Washington and Jefferson College Dr. John Knapp, State Representative Mike Johnson, Pineville City Councilman Nathan Martin and Central Louisiana Chamber of Commerce President Deborah Randolph.
“We welcome and interlock with you,” Powell said. “Besides a relationship with God, education is the only other thing that can’t be taken away from them [students.].”
Rep. Johnson, a 1981 alumnus of the university, delivered a blessing and a commendation from Gov. Jeff Landry and the State House of Representatives, who voted unanimously to commemorate the day in honor of Johnson’s inauguration.
Martin, who also graduated from Louisiana College, spoke on behalf of Pineville Mayor Joe Bishop and the City Council.
“This university has shaped the character and the values of the community,” he said. “The future is full of opportunity, and the city of Pineville stands with you as a committed partner.”
Randolph remarked on the energy and commitment to partnerships that she has already seen demonstrated since he took office.
“Your vision for Louisiana Christian University has generated excitement in the business community,” she said. “You love what you do, and it shows. Your faith, vitality and mission are ushering in a new era at this university.”
Heather Johnson spoke, thanking all who spoke and all who attended for their prayers and support, calling it “humbling” to have so many people who have welcomed them to campus and the community.
Lastly, Johnson spoke, citing Proverbs 3:5-6. “Love the Lord with all your heart and lean not unto your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your paths.”
He said he takes his presidential calling seriously while acknowledging the role the community plays in LCU’s success. He remarked that he is following in the footsteps of some pioneers of Christian higher education, noting former Louisiana College President G. Earl Guinn, who worked to integrate faith seamlessly into academics.
Johnson said he will lead LCU to help fulfill needs that exist in the community, building on what he sees as a strong foundation.
This area has the strongest education community I’ve ever been around,” he said, also remarking, “the business leaders are looking to us to produce leaders for the workforce. Louisiana Christian University is still here, and God has plans in store.”
Music was provided by a community choir from First Baptist Church in Pineville, Kingsville Baptist Church, Philadelphia Baptist Church, the Citywide Choir of Alexandria and LCU Chorale. Midstate Homeschool Choir presented special music.
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Media Release | March 27, 2026 | Pineville, Louisiana
Contact: Dr. Elizabeth B. Clarke, Director of University Communications | Elizabeth.clarke@lcuniversity.edu