Howard Payne University hosted the Presidential Leadership Luncheon on Wednesday, February 25. The luncheon is for students who have received the Presidential Merit Scholarship or other leadership scholarships, and for leaders of student organizations on HPU’s campus.

This year’s guest speaker was Frosty Gilliam, Jr., the president and co-founder of Aghorn Energy, Inc. in Odessa. During the luncheon, Gilliam encouraged student leaders to first learn to be a follower, especially of Jesus Christ. He shared that those who follow Christ will know how to care for and lead others. Gilliam also highlighted integrity as an essential element of leadership. Gilliam shared about experiences that formed him and detailed the most important qualities of a leader. 

“The Presidential Leadership Luncheon is always a wonderful time to celebrate our student leaders at HPU,” said Dr. Cory Hines, HPU president. “We are thankful for Frosty Gilliam, Jr., and the wisdom he shared with our campus.”

Gilliam earned his Bachelor of Science in petroleum engineering from Texas A&M University. After college, he worked in several capacities at various oil and gas companies before founding Aghorn with his brother. They started with two oil wells and now have over 1,200. Gilliam and his wife, Rhonda, have faithfully served their local community and various professional and educational organizations throughout the state. The couple has received many awards from Texas A&M as well as the City of Odessa for their work and investment in these communities.