The Rams’ Biggest Fan: Dr. Marshall Flowers

Photos by Rampage student photographer Nathan LePere.

“Go Bluefield! Go Rams!” The words and enthusiasm of Dr. Marshall Flowers are known throughout the campus community. Dr. Flowers began serving as Bluefield University’s provost and chief academic officer in 2015, and he will retire at the end of this academic year.

Dr. Flowers describes himself as “a ‘Ram Fan’ of all student-generated activities in academics, athletics, performing arts, and life accomplishments.” He and his wife, Linda, are known for supporting and building relationships with the students.

“They took the time to know each student’s name,” said theatre student Ian Matullo. “After each performance they attended, they shook our hands and congratulated all of us.”

“Dr. and Mrs. Flowers are blessings to this campus and everywhere they go — always encouraging, loving, and present at every event,” student Staley Lyle said. “They truly show Christ’s love and kindness in everything they do and say.”

Dr. Flowers’ service in Christ-centered higher education began in 1977 as the dean of students at North Central University.

“In 1982, soon after our son, Brett was born, I became dean of students at Vanguard University in Costa Mesa, California,” he explained. “During those six years, I studied at Claremont Graduate University for the Ph.D. in Higher Education. Our daughter, Lindsay, was also born, ‘our Southern California girl.’”

Dr. Flowers earned his Doctor of Philosophy degree in Higher Education Administration from Claremont Graduate University in 1992. Since, he has served as Northwest University’s senior vice president for academic affairs and senior vice president for institutional research and planning, as well as Montreat College’s acting president and senior vice president and provost.

As Bluefield University’s provost and chief academic officer, Dr. Flowers established BU’s academic governance structure by organizing programs and departments into colleges and schools.

“With over 40 years of service in Christian higher education, Dr. Flowers has attained a plethora of knowledge and experience, and we have been the beneficiaries of his wisdom and spiritual guidance,” President David Olive said in an email announcing Dr. Flowers’ retirement.

“It has been a rich and fulfilling tenure of seven years working closely with Bluefield University students, faculty and administrative personnel,” Dr. Flowers said.

Dr. and Mrs. Flowers are deeply appreciated members of the campus community and will be missed.

Speaking to them in chapel on April 6, SGA President Isaiah Rife said, “The way that you show worship through everything that you do is so beautiful. The way that Jesus shines through both of you, it’s so amazing to see, and the love that you spread on this campus is amazing.”

“The team of Dr. and Mrs. Flowers will be missed on campus and in the community of Bluefield!” Lyle added.