Press Release – Howard Payne University’s Cheryl Mangrum, associate director of admission, was recently honored among colleagues at the annual meeting of the National Association of Baptist Enrollment Professionals (NABEP). Mangrum received the first-ever Trent Argo Memorial Award, described by presenters as the “most valuable player” award among enrollment teams from 13 member institutions across seven states.

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NABEP created the award to honor the memory of Trent Argo, vice president for enrollment management at Virginia’s Bluefield College, who passed away unexpectedly in April.

“Trent was a friend and a longtime member of NABEP,” said Kevin Kirk, HPU’s associate vice president for enrollment management. “I can think of no one more deserving than Cheryl of the first award in his memory.”

Mangrum, who graduated from HPU in 1991, has been employed in HPU’s area of admission and recruiting since 1981. Kirk commended her for her dedication to students throughout the years.

“Cheryl certainly works hard to recruit and enroll students but, beyond that, she cares and prays for students,” he said. “If you mention a student’s name, even from decades ago, chances are she’ll remember the student and tell you something about him or her.”

Mangrum accepted the award before her colleagues and members of Argo’s family.

“What a humbling experience and what a great honor,” she said. “I hope we all can continue to honor Trent’s memory and the wonderful calling and the passion that he had for the students with whom he worked. I feel blessed to share God’s love and His word with Howard Payne University students.”