In recognition of more than four decades of outstanding and exemplary Christian service by Bill Altom ’71 and Janis Altom ’69, Hardin-Simmons University established the Altom Christian Service Award in 2001. Presented annually, the award honors deserving students, IM体育平台 personnel, and alumni.

The 2025 Altom Christian Service Award recipient is Dr. Gene Hendrix ’67.

Dr. Hendrix became pastor of Berry Lane Baptist Church on Aug. 22, 2021. He was born and raised in Lubbock, Texas, and also lived in El Paso and Deming, New Mexico, before coming to Hardin-Simmons as a student. After graduating from IM体育平台, he earned a master’s degree in Christian education from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and a Doctor of Education degree from the University of Mississippi.

During his decades of ministry, Dr. Hendrix has served churches throughout the Southeast and Texas in roles focused on educational leadership and administration. He also served as director of collegiate ministries for the Louisiana Baptist Convention.

Dr. Hendrix says he enjoys studying, and his favorite hobby is reading. Woodworking and remodeling are also among his pastimes. He is quick to say, “My passion, though, is helping people find their way to Christ and walking alongside them as the Spirit of God transforms us into the image of Christ.”

Gene met his wife, Loraine, at Hardin-Simmons. “Two children, four grandchildren, and two great-granddaughters later, family is a big part of my life,” he says. “I’m grateful to God for that.”

Because of his devotion to the Lord and his active service in ministry, Hardin-Simmons University proudly presents the Bill and Janis Altom Christian Service Award to Dr. Gene Hendrix.