Ben Elrod is an Arkansas philanthropist, educator and Christian leader who spent over four decades investing in the lives of young men and women through Christian higher education. His life story will inspire future generations of leaders to live a life of impact for the kingdom of God. His life's work was founded upon careful professional preparation followed by a relentless pursuit of excellence in all his assignments. Ben Elrod started and ended his higher education experience at Ouachita Baptist University beginning as a freshman and ending as its 13th president.


The book explores the shaping experiences of his early days in the rural timber town of Rison, Arkansas and the impact on him of his college days at Ouachita. Insights into his presidency of three institutions of higher learning will be invaluable to those who currently share such a challenge. No story of his life would be complete without sharing his insights into how to raise money for noble causes. His significant work as a pioneer fundraiser in higher education will provide wisdom for all those tasked with securing funding for their organizations.