Houston, Texas, July 23, 2026 – Tiffany Charles, Director of Undergraduate Admissions at Houston Christian University (HCU) was presented with the Trent Argo Service Award at the National Association of Baptist Enrollment Professionals (NABEP) Annual Summer Conference, held this year from July 20 – 22, on the campus of Mary Hardin-Baylor in Belton, Texas.
The award was established in honor of Trent Argo, a past president of NABEP, whose influence, warmth and decades of expertise left a lasting mark on the profession and on every student whose life he touched. Argo served in many roles throughout his career, including as Vice President for Enrollment Management at Bluefield College in Virginia, prior to his sudden passing. The award is presented each year to an individual who has demonstrated extraordinary passion for students and selfless service to the enrollment profession.
Dr. James Steen, Vice President of Enrollment Management & Marketing at HCU, a recipient of the award in 2022, nominated Charles and commended her for her tireless dedication and servant leadership.
“She is, quite simply, the Energizer Bunny of our admissions world. The entire HCU community feels it: from the admissions team and student ambassadors to GO leaders and faculty and staff, everyone loves and deeply appreciates what Tiffany brings to this institution every single day,” said Dr. Steen.
He noted that what sets Charles apart is her wholehearted love for Jesus and commitment to championing Christian higher education.
Charles described receiving the award as a “truly humbling” experience that brought her to tears.
“As I stood there, I wasn’t thinking about recognition; I was overwhelmed by the privilege and responsibility of serving in Christian higher education during such a pivotal time. The moment pierced my heart and reminded me why this work matters so deeply,” shared Charles.
She considers every day an opportunity to invest in the academic and spiritual formation and calling of the next generation. “I believe Christian colleges and universities play a vital role in advancing God’s Kingdom, and we must continue to stand, serve and fight to keep the doors of these institutions open for generations to come.”
As Director of Undergraduate Admissions, she views her selection as “not simply a personal honor, but a reminder to continue pouring out her life as a drink offering in service to Christ, His Kingdom, and “the students He has entrusted to us,” shared Charles.
“It renews my commitment to faithfully serve alongside so many dedicated professionals who are answering the call to Christian higher education.”
For more information on the award, visit the National Association of Baptist Enrollment Professionals website.
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About Houston Christian University
For more than 60 years, Houston Christian University has equipped students to lead, collaborate, and embody a deep sense of spiritual purpose. The University offers a wide range of majors, undergraduate, graduate and doctoral degree programs, as well as NCAA Division I athletics in the Southland Conference. Located in the heart of one of the nation’s largest metropolitan centers, HCU’s culture of excellence molds the next generation of educated disciples to be pillars in their communities, preparing them to think critically and biblically as they impact the world.