An Open Door And A Lasting Legacy: Honoring Becky “Momma B” Cawthon’s Two Decades Of Creating A Home, Building Community And Shaping Lives At Florida College
July 9, 2026 | 7-8 min read
Growing up in Little Rock, Arkansas, Becky Cawthon (‘70) was not familiar with Florida College. In fact, until she arrived as a student, she had never set foot on campus. Throughout high school, Cawthon often felt surrounded by people and activities that did not align with her Christian values. So, when a close friend told her about a college committed to following Christ, she was eager to attend.
Once she arrived, Cawthon quickly immersed herself in campus life.
“When I came to FC, I was determined,” she recalled. “I wanted to meet as manypeople as I could and be involved in as many things as possible.”
And she did exactly that. Her years at Florida College were filled with meaningful friendships and lasting memories. During that time, she met the man who would later become her husband, Steve Cawthon. Shortly after college, the two married and moved to Tennessee to begin their life together.
Years later, after her husband’s passing, Cawthon unexpectedly found herself back on Florida College’s campus, this time working in the registrar’s office as a secretary. During that season, she spent a great deal of time in prayer.
“I was constantly asking God, ‘How do you want to use me?’ And then a new opportunity at the college came up,” she said.
In 2006, the Dean of Students asked if she would serve as the dorm parent for Hinely Hall. Though hesitant at first, the role aligned with something that had long been important to Steve and Becky — encouraging high school and college-aged students as they grew in their faith. That calling, combined with her love for the school and its mission, made the decision clear. Cawthon agreed to serve as a dorm parent for one year, trusting that God would guide the next steps.
What began as a short-term commitment turned into two decades of service, during which Cawthon helped shape Hinely Hall into far more than a dormitory. For many students, it became a home away from home. During Cawthon’s very first meeting with the residents, the young women in Hinely gave her a nickname that would stay with her for the next twenty years — “Momma B.” Over time, that title came to reflect the role she played in the lives of thousands of students. And there were thousands. By Cawthon’s estimate, more than 3,000 girls passed through her doors during her time at Florida College. Yet she never viewed them as a crowd to manage. Each student arrived with her own personality, struggles, and needs, and Cawthon worked to meet them accordingly. She cultivated a space where students could stop by, sit down, and talk. Her door remained open, both physically and emotionally.
As she put it simply, “I just try to listen, remember that everybody’s different, and meet each person where they are.”
She was also intentional about drawing students together and building community. Many traditions that students remember most fondly began with her desire to make Hinely Hall warm and inviting. Some were simple and playful, like celebrating National Rubber Ducky Day. Others became steady rhythms of dorm life, such as the monthly calendar (pictured) she created to keep girls informed and connected. With birthdays, room check reminders, and campus events listed each month, the calendar quietly reminded students that they belonged.
Of course, no reflection on Cawthon’s years at Florida College would be complete without mentioning Disney. Over time, Disney became something students closely associated with her joyful energy and desire to make college life memorable. For several years, she coordinated an “FC at Disney” day for students who wanted to participate. These outings were highly anticipated and created memories that many students still talk about today.
What most did not realize was how much work these trips required. Because of ticket restrictions, Cawthon could only purchase eight tickets at a time. One year, she bought nearly 400 tickets, making repeated trips back and forth to Disney so students could enjoy the experience together.
Cawthon’s lively spirit also helped bridge the gap between students and the faculty and staff at Florida College. She believed a stronger campus community forms when students can see the people around them as more than titles. Through playful Disney-themed chapel announcements, talent shows, and other lighthearted moments, she encouraged faculty and staff to step outside their comfort zones and join the fun.
Her impact was formally recognized in February 2025 when Florida College honored Cawthon with the Friend to Youth Award, highlighting her years of wisdom, kindness, and selfless care for the students she served. Yet her legacy cannot be summed up by one award, one event, or one tradition. It is found in countless conversations, in small moments of encouragement, and in a steady presence she offered year after year.
Looking back, the experience has been just as meaningful for Cawthon as it has been for the students whose lives she touched.
“This job has been so rewarding,” she said. “Even just this year I’ve watched students mature and change, and to think that I might have played even a small part in that growth is so encouraging.”
As she prepares to step away from Hinely Hall, her advice to the person who will take her place remains simple and heartfelt: be yourself, listen well, and always leave your door open.
Thank you, Momma B, for your tireless service, your steadfast care, and your Christlike example over the last two decades.
Quotes from Past and Present Students
“She gently teaches her girls self-discipline in the first years of adulthood. She touches her girls’ lives with joy through her hugs and smiles. She loves each of us girls deeply which is evident in her concern and prayers for us, which from experience, I know have continued well past my FC years. Momma B is a true example of someone following Christ.” – Britni Broadwell (’09)
“Momma B is truly the heart of Hinely. She doesn’t just watch over her girls, but works to teach them how to be Christ-like servants. She has given me the opportunity to grow and pushed me to be the best version of myself. I am so thankful for her example. I love you Momma B!” – Cathlyn Hill (’27)
“When I think about my time at FC and the wonderful experience I had, it’s impossible to not think about Momma B. Not only was she always a listening ear she was a mentor who truly cared about me and my relationship with God. I knew if I needed her she was there to give me any help needed, day or night. I still get advice and guidance from her to this day!” – Heather Glass (’17)
(From left to right: “Momma B” at Disney with former students, 25-26 Hinely girls, Momma B at Animal Kingdom with students)