Each year, Charles Elliott Weniger Society for Excellence aims to highlight individuals within the Adventist Church and recognize their outstanding denominational and societal contributions through the Charles Elliott Weniger Award. This year, all four awardees are alumni of Walla Walla University. Stew Harty (attended), Chris Oberg '83, Carl Wilkins '81 and Randal Wisbey '80 were chosen for their notable achievements in their respective fields.
The awards are given in honor of Charles E. Weniger, former professor and dean of the Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary in Washington D.C. from 1948–1958. Known for his kindness, encouragement and teaching excellence, Weniger inspired and mentored a generation of ministers, chaplains and theologians. Charles Elliott Weniger Society for Excellence was founded to recognize individuals who exemplify the values of humility and professionalism demonstrated by Weniger.
Each year, Weniger Fellows Student Scholarship Fund selects one student from each of the 13 accredited Adventist colleges and universities in North American Division to receive a $750 scholarship, which is matched with $750 from the institution. This year, Abigail Martinez Pérez, WWU senior business major with a concentration in accounting, was chosen and celebrated at WWU Awards CommUnity.
The 49th annual awards presentation will take place on Feb. 15, 2025 at Loma Linda University Church in California. There will also be a livestream available at lluc.org/live and on the LLU Church YouTube channel. All are welcome to attend.