On Sept. 15, 1952, Central Baptist College (CBC) opened its doors for the first time. On Sept. 15, 2022, CBC welcomed over 300 students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends for a 70th Anniversary Celebration. The day’s festivities were part of a year-long celebration surrounding the college’s 70th anniversary.
The first event of the day was held on the campus under a tent. Guests were treated to a catered lunch of fried fish, chicken, French fries, hushpuppies, coleslaw and baked beans provided by Uncle Tim’s Catfish of Conway.
Following lunch, Jim Fink, chairman of the Board of Trustees, welcomed and opened the program with prayer. Terry Kimbrow, president of CBC, took the crowd back to 1952 with facts and details about the purchase of the college. He reminded guests of many different projects that have been constructed over the years. He then ended by telling them that “our most significant victory is in remaining true to our mission! Yes, it’s been rewritten, reworked and reworded, but we continue to stand for the absolute truth of the verbal, plenary, inspired Word of God.”
Alumnus Dr. J.E. Hughes of Forrest City provided several stories of his time at CBC, including how the school mascot became the Mustang. Then, President Kimbrow announced the newest athletic project: the CBC Mascot. The CBC Mascot was a surprise for all guests. “The Mustang will be part of athletic events moving forward, and we’re very excited to have this addition available at games and student activities,” said Student Activities Coordinator Blake Pittman.
To end the day, the new mascot escorted a big birthday cake, with sparklers and confetti. The cake consisted of 3 layers — Italian cream, chocolate and strawberry with cream cheese icing. Before the cake was served, alumnus Tom Mitchell ended the day with a few short stories and prayer. Guests were then served cake provided by Chef Don Bingham of Conway.
The second event of the day was the yearly “Meet the Mustangs.” The event was kicked off by the CBC Choir singing the National Anthem. Following the song, each of the 16 athletic teams was announced, along with the band and choir members.
The night ended with a tunnel of sparklers as CBC’s new mascot helped light the way.
