Montreat College Conference 2025

Ten students from the Arkansas Presbytery and Arkansas Colleges attended the Montreat College Conference this year.

From the Presbytery at large we had Riley Button, student at Stephen F. Austin in Texas.

From UCM at the U of A we had Drew Parker and William Nevill travel with us and Nora Miller and Joseph Unruh, who travelled and stayed with Preston Hollow, Dallas.

From Lyon College we had Drew Chalberg, Ella Holyfield and Landon Jackson

From University of the Ozarks we had Naila Pierre on leadership team and Douglas McKenzie, who traveled with First, Dallas.

It was a wonderful conference with great worship and keynote speakers. This was the first conference after the devastating hurricane Helene flooding. We were able to volunteer in the community as a part of the workshop times.

There was snow on the ground and cold temperatures, but the group persevered and hiked to Lookout Mountain. The only switch was the annual hike did not happen at sunrise. We waited for slightly warmer temperatures and snow melt and hiked in the afternoon. Lake Susan was drained for repairs that were planned before Helene's damage struck, but it was still a stark sight combined with all the terrain washed away all down the creek bed. Montreat is rebuilding and was extremely grateful to have a lively group to plan for and then host.

The group of six students and two adult supporters, who traveled from Northwest Arkansas, are grateful for the Presbytery of Arkansas support which allowed us to fly over the I40 closures that would have made the normal drive much longer.

Joseph Unruh said it was the best trip ever.

Drew C., William, Nora and Riley were extremely grateful to get one more Montreat College conference before they graduate in May.

Landon, who came to Lyon College without much experience with Presbyterians said he now understands his college and some of the traditions they have.