When JP Gardner ’26 arrived at Samford University as a freshman, he thought he knew exactly who he wanted to become. 

“I wanted to have an answer to everything,” said the Christian ministry major. “I wanted to know every story in the Bible, be able to answer all the hard apologetic questions and quote verses from all over Scripture, no matter the situation.” 

Gardner graduated with something far more enduring than certainty. He leaves Samford with humility, shaped by a deeper understanding of faith, calling and community—hallmarks of his experience within the Department of Christian Ministry in the School of the Arts. 

His perspective shifted as his learning expanded. The more he studied Scripture, theology and leadership, the more he recognized the limits of his own knowledge. Rather than discouraging him, that realization grounded him. 

“I learned through my time at Samford that I will never know all that I wish to know,” Gardner said. “But as a Christian, I can rest in the wings of an almighty God who is omniscient and is always with me.” 

That journey—from pride to what Gardner describes as “quiet humility”—was reinforced inside and outside the classroom. Through involvement in his local church and service as a small group leader, Gardner found opportunities to live out what he was learning academically. Friends and peers often sought his counsel on issues of identity, relationships and calling, allowing him to apply Scripture and classroom learning. 

Beyond coursework, Gardner credits Samford with teaching him the value of Christ-centered community. He points to the unique environment created when faith and friendship intersect daily. 

“There is not only something unique about receiving a Christian education,” he said, “but there is also great value in having Christian friends.” 

Within the Christian Mministry program, the sense of community is intentional. Students progress through the curriculum together from freshman year through graduation, deepening bonds as they wrestle with Scripture and theology side by side. Those relationships extended well beyond the classroom into everyday life. 

Gardner credits his roommate and close friend, Ethan Franks, for his growth.  

“Ethan would often pray over me and read or quote Scripture to me,” Gardner said. “This grew me in my relationship with Christ, and it dramatically changed how I treat others in my life.”   

Faculty mentorship also played a significant role. Under the leadership of Scott Guffin ’88, PhD, Gardner said he gained a clearer picture of what Christlike leadership should deliver.  

“I learned that the greatest leaders resemble Christ,” Gardner said. “They seek to serve others first, lead by example, pursue excellence and glorify God in all that they do.” 

While his academic journey was marked by growth, it was not without challenge. Striving for excellence often meant confronting unmet expectations. Those moments ultimately reminded him his identity is in Christ—not in performance or grades. 

Some of Gardner’s most formative experiences came from stepping outside his comfort zone—, beginning with his first weekend at Samford. Being far from home and surrounded by strangers forced him to initiate conversations and build relationships, an experience he now sees as foundational to his growth in hospitality and compassion. 

Among his many memories at Samford, one stands above the rest. Gardner proposed to his fiancée on the balcony of President Beck Taylor’s home, overlooking the campus where their relationship began. 

As Gardner looks beyond graduation, Samford has helped reorient his understanding of calling—not as self-advancement, but as service. 

“Rather than asking how my degree can serve my own endeavors, Samford consistently pushed me to ask how what I am studying can be used for the betterment of others,” he said. 

Entering the next chapter, Gardner feels prepared not because he has all the answers, but because he trusts God with the unknown. 

“I am most excited for the future and all the places that God may lead,” he said. 

If Gardner could leave the Samford community with one message, it would be simple: gratitude. 

“Thank you for the past four years of comforting, guiding and walking with me through the mountains and valleys,” he said. “Above all, thank you for constantly reminding me of the life and forgiveness available in Jesus.” Christian Ministry Alumnus Reflects on the Community that Shaped His time at Samford