Elizabeth and McNair Copeland keep service at the forefront of their daily lives. They spend time meeting the needs of community members and various organizations in meaningful ways.
As we all pivoted to new manners of caring for the welfare of others and ourselves, the Copelands adjusted how they provide a myriad of services in their community. Mrs. Copeland and her husband know it is important to share the love of God, as she says, “in any possible way.”
At the onset of the health crisis, Elizabeth joined a team making masks for the local hospitals. She and McNair also spend time supporting local caregivers, providing transportation for community members to medical appointments, tutoring students and holding virtual fund raisers. Most recently, they have spent time preparing homes for families in need through Habitat for Humanity, where Mrs. Copeland serves as the Board Chair.
Sharing the love of God extends to the support of Africa University by the Copelands. In 2018, Mrs. Copeland made a planned gift to support the future of Africa University. She recalls first hearing of the idea of Africa University from Carrie Goddard, a professor at Scaritt College who was a strong promoter of the idea of a university for the continent of Africa. As a Christian Educator, this idea resonated with her.
With students coming from more than half of the countries in Africa, the Copelands recognize the value of diversity at the university and appreciate that students can gain the experience of an education in a Christian environment.
Through their support, they are ensuring Africa University students are prepared to lead in their professions, identify and address the greatest community needs and share the love of God.
Andra M. Stevens, Director, Communications, Africa University Development Office
A World Service Special Gift is a designated financial contribution made by an individual, local church, organization, district or annual conference to a project authorized as such by the Connectional Table. Current World Service Special Gifts projects include the Africa University Endowment Fund, the Leonard Perryman Communications Scholarship for Ethnic Minority Students, the Methodist Global Education Fund, the National Anti-Gambling Project and the Lay Missionary Planting Network.
