Brookside, Ala., native, Bruce Henderson, a junior majoring in music with a concentration in vocal education at Stillman has carved out quite a summer for himself. He is now a temporary licensed insurance agent for Liberty National Life Insurance Company. “This job is a wonderful adventure where I have the most amazing co-workers and I get to meet some of the best people everyday,” Henderson said.  “I first heard about the job from one of my closest friends, whose mom is actually our immediate supervisor.  We work as team to ensure the success of all.  It reminds me of the wonderful relationships that I have formed at Stillman,” he explained.

Not only is he working hard at Liberty, he is also using his musical gift to make a difference.  “I am currently planning a Gospel Benefit Concert for the Pratt City and Western Jefferson County communities impacted by the April 27 tornadoes.  I have local Birmingham groups and churches coming together to show love and support,” he said. This event is scheduled to take place sometime in July.

Henderson will also be hosting his third annual "Season of Praise" Gospel Music Workshop.  “For the past three summers, I have held this event to teach church music ministries the concept of ministry, anointing, praise and worship and healthy Gospel singing,” he said. This event is co-hosted by one of Henderson’s singing groups, The BHJ Ensemble, named after him.  “We invite musicians, choir members, and anyone who wants to witness what it takes to have an effective and anointed music ministry,” said Henderson.  The workshop lasts three days (Thursday - Saturday) and concludes with a final concert on Sunday featuring the Workshop Choir and local gospel groups or singers.  “We also strive to give a scholarship to a graduate at the host church each year,” he said.  This year’s workshop is scheduled for July 28-30, with the concert being held on Sunday, July 31.

In January 2010, Henderson was chosen to serve on the 105 Voices of History National HBCU (Historically Black College or University) Choir Leadership Council.  He represented the Southeastern Region (Ala., Miss., and Tenn.).  He participated as a choir member last year (Sept. 2010).  More information about this group can be found at http://www.hbcuchoirs-105voh.com/.

He is also a licensed minister, having received his license in February 2010.

When asked what he would like to do upon graduation, Henderson said, “I plan to earn my Master's while starting my teaching career in high school choral music.  Then, I may go on to achieving a doctoral degree.”

For more information about Henderson or the programs mentioned, call 205-792-3523.  

-STILLMAN-