Clarks Summit University Trustee Emeritus Celebrates 100th Birthday!

Published July 18, 2017

On Saturday, July 15, 2017, Mr. Russell Phelps celebrated his one-hundredth birthday surrounded by friends and family. The celebration was about more than cake and candles, however, as he and his guests celebrated his unparalleled faithfulness to his family, his career and to the Lord.

“How ya’ doing?” Anyone who knows Mr. Phelps recognizes this greeting. Always accompanied by his “branded smile” and a twinkle in his eye, the warmth Mr. Phelps exudes is loved by many.

Mr. Phelps served as Treasurer for Baptist Bible Seminary and as a member of the Board of Trustees since the early days of the university in Johnson City, New York. He was named Trustee Emeritus at the age of 93 and still holds that title. These are just some of the ways in which the ministry of CSU has been furthered by his service.

CSU President, Dr. Jim Lytle, is thankful for Mr. Phelps’ 60-plus years of faithful service to CSU, saying, “We have had whole committees that haven’t done as much as Mr. Phelps has done himself. I liken him to the tail of a kite—a tail gives the kite stability and keeps it pointed in the right direction—and that’s what he does through his knowledge of business and his faith in the Lord.” Mr. Phelps’ calm sense of purpose and his wealth of business knowledge has been a vital asset to the university and Board of Trustees.

The party was a joyous time of celebration where guests gave testimony of the impact he has had through his business and ministry. Mr. Phelps still conducts his real estate business every day, and among those who gave testimonies were his current employees who spoke of his genuine nature and evident faith.

Mr. Tom Bevan, who serves as CSU’s Vice President for Business Administration and Finance and BBC Foundation President, said, “We are better for his involvement with us, as any ministry would be to have such a relationship. It is my hope that the Lord would continue to grant us relationships such as we’ve had with Mr. Phelps, because with such support there truly is nothing we can’t do!”

Mr. Phelps always tells people to “keep at it.” He believes in the value of persistence over the long haul, and he exemplifies that steadfastness in all that he does.

Paul Golden, Director of Alumni Services, has known of Mr. Phelps since his youth and his respect for him has only increased in the years since he attended CSU as a student. He said, “I always appreciated his kindness to me and his willingness to talk and ask about my folks and family. His longevity in his service to the school is remarkable. I am grateful for his fine example of faithfulness to Christ.”

Mr. Phelps celebrated his 100 years with his greatest legacies; his two children, two grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

In the signature parting words of Mr. Phelps, “All the best, and good to see ya’.” Happy birthday, Mr. Phelps!