Howard Payne University presented Raymond Harris, architect, executive movie and music producer and venture capitalist from Dallas, as the guest speaker at the annual Community Leadership Lunch and Learn on Tuesday, October 1. Many local business leaders were in attendance at the luncheon, sponsored by the Sumners Foundation and held in the Bullion Suites of HPU’s Mabee University Center.

As one of the most prolific American architects, Harris uses his profit to build economic engines and ignite young men and women to develop influential businesses in entertainment, agriculture, manufacturing, and technology. He is a Senior Fellow of Entrepreneurship at the Institute of Global Engagement at Dallas Baptist University. He is a writer and speaker and has published three books Enduring Wealth – Being Rich in this World and the Next, Business by Design, and The Heart of Business. Harris has delivered chapel messages, lectures and talks at colleges and seminaries.

Harris’ presentation focused on principles of enduring wealth and how leaders can be rich in this world and the next. Drawing insights from his most recent book, Harris shared about redefining wealth beyond just financial gain and how leaders should be faithful stewards with what God has entrusted to them on earth.

“We should seek to turn our earthly assets into Kingdom currency,” Harris said. “Our currency is built on the attitudes and actions of faithful men and women.”

He also emphasized the importance of riches through relationships and how investing in the lives of others always reaps a reward.

“I am thankful Raymond was able to come to campus to share his insights with our community,” said Dr. Cory Hines, university president. “His presentation was a meaningful reminder that we need to be faithful with the wealth God has entrusted to us on earth, knowing it all belongs to Him. This was also a wonderful opportunity to bless leaders in the Brownwood community and express our gratitude for their partnerships.”