On March 25, 2010 Biola hosted the third annual Ruby Slippers Banquet and Ceremony. The evening was the final event in Biola's National Women's History Month Celebration entitled, "Pearls in Process: Celebrating the Creativity of Women." The ceremony featured a special keynote address by author and inspirational speaker Christian DiMari, as well as the third annual Biola Ruby Awards.
The evening began with an intimate banquet hosted by Biola's First Lady, Paula Corey. Corey interviewed each of the Ruby Award recipients, giving guests the opportunity to learn about their lives, giftings and role models.
Following the banquet, the Biola community gathered in Sutherland Auditorium for the Ruby Slippers Ceremony. Karin Jantz, Biola alum and Board spouse, served as the emcee for the evening.
Dr. Marla Campbell, Biola Intercultural Studies professor and emcee of the very first Ruby Slippers Luncheon in 2008, presented the Priscilla Award for Teaching and Mentoring to Dr. Joanne Jung, Assistant Professor of Biblical Studies and Spiritual Formation.
Beth (Born) Tabor, Associate Dean of Residence Life, received the Deborah Award for Leadership and Wisdom presented by Tanya Walters, a Biola graduate and 2008 recipient of the award.
Dee Henry, Women's Tennis Coach and creator of the Biola Wheelchair Tennis Program, received the Esther Award for Obedience and Servanthood, presented by Elaine Crane, Biola graduate and the 2009 recipient of the award.
President Corey presented the Inaugural Anna Horton Award for Student Mentoring to Dr. Judy TenElshof, the first female Talbot professor, founder of the Hilltop Renewal Center and one of the founders of the Institute for Spiritual Formation at Talbot. The award is named for Anna Horton, the wife of Biola founder T.C. Horton who created a thriving women's Bible study and mentoring program in the early 1900s, laying the foundation for the Bible Institute of Los Angeles.
Senior Communications major Emily Berger performed two special music numbers and guests were challenged and encouraged by a keynote address from Christina DiMari entitled "Pearls of Blessing." DiMari is the parent of a Biola freshman and author of "You're Designed to Shine" and "Ocean Star." She has a thriving ministry centered on encouraging women and bringing about healing in their lives.
The evening was a true celebration of the inspirational women at work in the Biola community.