Samford University’s Beeson Divinity School announced the name of its new reading room in honor of former longtime receptionist Sandy Brinson in a Sept. 29 ceremony. The reading room is located in the newly-renovated student commons in Divinity Hall.
“Sandy Brinson is one of the most beloved members of our Beeson community, and I am delighted for us to name this special space in our renovated commons, The Sandy Brinson Room,” said Timothy George, Beeson Divinity dean. “Sandy has had an indelible influence on several generations of Beeson students, faculty and staff. We call her our ‘sunshine’ because she has always been so encouraging and joyful, even in the midst of adversity. Sandy will always be in our hearts, and seeing her name here will remind us of the enduring value of true Christian service.”
Brinson, who worked at Beeson for 22 years, was shocked by the announcement.
“It was completely overwhelming and very humbling,” Brinson said. “Can you imagine having your name on a room in a seminary?”
She said that she could not have had a better place to work, especially as she experienced the death of her son, parents, and grandparents during her time at Beeson.
“I really didn’t think I had a place for ministry,” Brinson added. “But I know the Lord put me here, and it is wonderful to love and to be loved.”
Brinson was joined by members of the community as well as special friends of Beeson. She also was surprised by the attendance of her daughter, who drove from Atlanta to be a part of this special recognition.
The announcement of The Sandy Brinson Room came at the end of a special service of blessing of the commons led by George and Samford President Andrew Westmoreland.
The student commons renovation began in mid-May and was completed in August. It was made possible by the generous gifts of faculty, alumni and friends.
“I do want to join my colleague (Dean George) in thanking those who made this possible for us,” Westmoreland said during the service. “We are extraordinarily grateful for the vision and for the gifts, for all of those who made this possible.”