Student Evangelism Conference replaces YEC with new look, new partnership, new branding
CLARKSVILLE — Although the inaugural Student Evangelism Conference featured high-energy worship music, engaging speakers, and captivating entertainers, none of those things represented the central purpose of the event, said Ryan Keaton, strengthening evangelistic disciples team leader for the Tennessee Baptist Mission Board.
“The goal of this conference was to clearly share the gospel with teenagers and provide them the opportunity to respond,” said Keaton. “That’s what we set out to do.”
At the conclusion of the conference, it was easy to see that the objective had been reached.
The two-day event — hosted by the TBMB in partnership with the Scott Dawson Evangelistic Association — drew roughly 800 students and youth leaders to First Baptist Church, Clarksville. More than 90 decisions were made among the attendees, including 60-plus professions of faith. (Complete figures were still being finalized at press time.)
“The Holy Spirit moved in a powerful way and people were saved,” said Roc Collins, evangelism team leader for the TBMB. “And to me, those were the two things that had to happen in order for the conference to be a success. Now, we can officially say: Mission accomplished. Praise the Lord!”
The conference was the “re-launching” and rebranding of the TBMB’s long-running Youth Evangelism Conference (YEC), and marked the beginning of the organization’s new partnership with the Scott Dawson Evangelistic Association.
“Words can hardly express how excited I am to be part of the rebranding of this impactful legacy event,” said Keaton. “For nearly 60 years, Tennessee Baptists have faithfully hosted a youth conference dedicated to sharing the gospel with teenagers and equipping them to go and share the good news with others. We stand on the shoulders of the many men and women who have faithfully stewarded this conference over the years, and we are committed to being good stewards, too, as we seek to impact this generation of teens.”
The event featured keynote speakers Rick Burgess and Brian Mills, along with praise music by the STSW band (the band that often performs at the Strength to Stand youth event, hosted by the Scott Dawson Evangelistic Association). Professional illusionist Jared Hall also performed during the conference, entertaining attendees on Friday night.
Keaton said he believes the conference has potential for great growth, and said he feels all the pieces are in place to make that happen.
“Tennessee Baptists are incredibly blessed to partner with the Scott Dawson Evangelistic Association,” said Keaton. “For decades, Dawson and his ministry have faithfully hosted student events across the country.
“Their ministry aligns closely with Tennessee Baptists in being doctrinally sound, gospel-centered, and practical in application,” he said. “By combining our resources and strengths, we are positioned to amplify the impact of this conference for years to come.” B&R
