The Algernon Sydney Sullivan Awards

Rev. Jeffrey Buffkin P ’17, P ’19 - 2026 Recipient

Rev. Jeffrey Buffkin P ’17, P ’19, campus minister for Baptist Collegiate Ministry at William & Mary, “exemplifies the very heart of the Sullivan award: a life lived in love, service and tireless generosity to others.”

Praised for his warmth and hospitality, Rev. Buffkin has been a cherished member of the William & Mary community for nearly two decades. In addition to directing all Baptist collegiate ministries at the university, Rev. Buffkin hosts weekly dinners, holiday gatherings, appreciation nights and provides, according to one nominator, “countless quiet moments of kindness and encouragement.”

For students in need, Rev. Buffkin will arrange for donated furniture and other everyday necessities. An international student expressed gratitude for Rev. Buffkin's guidance on how to navigate American life, from how to buy a car and understand insurance to interpreting cultural values, customs and social issues. They shared, “Because of Rev. Buffkin’s mentorship, I adapted to life in the U.S. not with fear or isolation, but with courage, confidence and community.”

On missions trips, Rev. Buffkin is always the first to jump into demanding projects, “leading with joy and humility.” A student volunteer who joined Rev. Buffkin on mission trips to Puerto Rico, Fort Myers and Nicaragua, shared that Rev. Buffkin is dedicated to mentoring students. “He patiently taught me how to serve, how to lead and how to truly connect with the people we were there to support,” she wrote, “I always felt safe, encouraged and inspired in his presence.” After serving with Rev. Buffkin in areas needing hurricane relief, this student was inspired to lead similar relief efforts.

Rev. Buffkin lives out the values of the Sullivan Award. His humor, empathy and resilience mean that all who meet him know that “at William & Mary, you belong.”