McKendree Formally Installs The Reverend Dr. Beverly Wilkes-Null on Founders' Day
On Sunday, Feb. 20, McKendree University celebrated its 194th year during its Founders’
Day celebration at the Hettenhausen Center for the Arts. During the event, The Reverend
Dr. Beverly L. Wilkes-Null was formally installed as the University’s new chaplain.
Rev. Beverly, the former directing pastor at Highland Hope United Methodist Church
in Highland, Ill., joined McKendree in the summer of 2021. The campus community at
large formally welcomed her to the community during this celebration, with many speakers
already singing her praises. “Rev. Beverly is a wonderful person who would give you
the clothing off her back,” said Dr. Joni Bastian, vice president of student affairs,
in her words of welcome. “In just a short time, she has made her mark with her love
and support of students, faculty and staff.”
President Daniel C. Dobbins ’81 kicked off the installation with a brief overview of the University’s impressive
history. “Here at McKendree, we cherish our historical relationship with the United
Methodist Church and its tradition of Judeo-Christian ideals. Therefore, we hold in
covenant the expectation that our University chaplain will welcome students, faculty
and staff from all walks of life to participate in open dialogue, free inquiry and
mutual respect,” he said. “We are blessed this year to celebrate this installation
and all the good works that come from Rev. Wilkes-Null.” Several leaders of various
faiths were also in attendance. Following the formal installation performed by Mississippi
River District Superintendent, The Reverend Allynn Walker, four faith leaders presented
interfaith symbols to the newly-installed reverend.
“This day would not be possible without each and every one of you,” Rev. Beverly said
to the crowd after accepting her installation. “I thank God for blessing me with this
new family; this is my Heaven on Earth – all of you. You have to get excited when
a dream becomes a reality and has staying power. In 1828, it wasn’t just a dream but
passion to make McKendree a reality so we could be standing here today. Our history,
our story – the Bearcat story – is still happening, for there are days ahead of us
yet to be revealed.”
The ceremony also included a spirit-filled homily by Bishop Frank Beard of the Illinois
Great Rivers Conference and songs of praise by members of the Trinity United Methodist
Church in East St. Louis. Concluding the event were songs performed by the McKendree
University Concert Choir under the direction of Dr. John McDonald, followed by a reception.
The Reverend Beverly L. Wilkes-Null received a warm welcome into the Bearcat family on Founders’ Day. Pictured from left to right are Dr. Joni Bastian, vice president for student affairs; Dr. Tami Eggleston, provost; Rev. Beverly L. Wilkes-Null, university chaplain; Mickey (Macaluso) Dobbins ’81; and President Daniel C. Dobbins ’81.
