Dr. Reggies Wenyika and Ann Bryan

Dr. Reggies Wenyika and Ann Bryan Rochester Christian University honors Ann Bryan, alongside her late husband Bert, as this year’s Philanthropist of the Year. Through their foundation, Bryan Christian Services, the Bryans have demonstrated a life marked by faith, generosity and a deep commitment to serving others, both locally and around the world. Established in 2002, Bryan Christian Services was born from a simple but powerful conviction. “Our goal was just to be a blessing because we had been blessed,” Ann said. What began as a private nonprofit foundation intentionally set aside for giving has grown into a wide-reaching ministry supporting Christian schools, churches, camps, missionaries and individuals in need. Their generosity has funded education for students in Uganda, provided wheelchairs for amputees, supported youth programs and church ministries, and helped students access Christian schooling when finances stood in the way. The Bryans’ connection to Rochester Christian University dates back decades through their involvement with the Rochester Church of Christ. Over the years, that connection deepened into something personal and lasting. Their home became a place of welcome for students — offering home-cooked meals, laundry and encouragement to those far from home. “We had a number of students who became our adopted kids,” Ann said. Ann’s involvement with RCU expanded even further when she joined the Department of Education in 2014, coordinating field placements and teaching introductory education and educational psychology courses. Her heart for students shaped her work, she said, allowing her to place future teachers in environments where they could thrive. “I wanted to know the students beyond what was on paper,” she said, ensuring each placement reflected both personality and purpose. Bert’s journey with RCU followed an unexpected but impactful path. After an early retirement from a successful career in technology, he returned to RCU to earn his master’s degree in religious education, missional leadership. What followed was a season of joyful service for Bert as he worked in development office, connected with students, and became a familiar face in chapel and athletic events. Known as the basketball team’s biggest encourager, Bert had a gift for making people feel seen, valued and supported. Together, Ann and Bert’s philanthropy at RCU extended beyond formal scholarships. They became a trusted source of support for students facing unexpected needs — whether tuition gaps, travel expenses, clothing or childcare — quietly stepping in to help when assistance was needed most. Their giving was never transactional; it was relational, rooted in faith and compassion. That legacy continues today, not only through the lives they’ve touched but also through family. Ann’s granddaughter is now an RCU student, making her presence on campus a meaningful full-circle moment. “I’m thrilled to see her here appreciating the things that Bert and I cared so deeply about,” Ann said. Even now, Ann’s life reflects joy and resilience. A longtime competitive ballroom dancer, she continues to compete in the Michigan Senior Olympics, embodying the same grace and determination that define her philanthropy. Through Bryan Christian Services and through a lifetime of intentional generosity, Ann Bryan exemplifies what it means to live out faith through action. Her impact, alongside Bert’s enduring legacy, will continue to shape lives at Rochester Christian University for generations to come. Read the full issue of the North Star, RCU’s annual magazine for alumni & friends, here. The post Ann Bryan: A Life of Faithful Generosity appeared first on Rochester Christian University.