Howard Community College (HCC) recently awarded an honorary degree to Rev. Dr. Robert Turner, senior pastor of St. John Baptist Church, in recognition of his extraordinary service to the institution and outstanding contributions to the community. Turner’s unwavering commitment to education, advocacy, and community engagement has left an indelible mark on Howard County.

Turner’s impact extends beyond the pulpit. As a spiritual guide, advocate for equality, and catalyst for community advancement, he has exemplified visionary leadership. His role as Chief Inspiration Officer (CIO) at St. John Baptist Church has fostered a strong partnership with HCC, benefiting students and the broader community. Turner’s advocacy for higher education has been instrumental. St. John Baptist Church has contributed over $300,000 in funding and scholarships to SJBC graduates and college students.

“St. John Baptist Church values higher education and prioritizes assisting students of all ages in academic achievement,” says Turner. “Howard Community College is effectively educating students in our community, and we appreciate opportunities to be partners through our giving.”

Additionally, Turner’s church supports various student programs, including Ambiciones (for first-generation Latinx students), the Silas Craft Collegians program (for recent high school graduates), and Howard P.R.I.D.E. (for Black male students). Innovative Community Engagement Recently, St. John Baptist Church launched a monthly grab-and-go breakfast program for students, addressing food insecurity and fostering a novel approach to community and college engagement.

Turner’s commitment to holistic student development aligns seamlessly with HCC’s mission. “Because the college is more familiar with what’s going on demographically, socioeconomically, and culturally in the neighborhood, the college is able to reflect those findings in their strategic plan, curriculum, and degree programs,” he adds.

Turner’s honor as the first clergy person to receive this distinction in HCC’s history underscores his exceptional contributions. He joins esteemed past honorees, including Congressman Elijah Cummings, Senator Barbara Mikulski, Judy Smith, and Dr. Lillian Bauder.

Howard Community College serves 30,000 credit and noncredit students annually, providing quality education and fostering community partnerships.

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EDITOR'S NOTE: This article was adapted from a press release distributed by St. John Baptist Church, a BGAV-participating congregation in Columbia, MD.