rudyhagood.com

I’m from L.A., so I represent the west coast. I was born to parents from Birmingham, Alabama. So, I’m “West Coast Alabama,” y’all! My lovely wife, Osharye, and I have seven crazy kids (yes, count ’em) and thirteen adorable grandkids. Our kids taught us what life is all about. Our grandkids taught us to live again.

I’m grateful and honored to be a Pastor, Professor, and a Writer. I’m a two-time graduate of Hope International University (HIU) and a graduate of Southwestern Christian College (SwCC). I currently serve at Pepperdine University, as well as my Alma Mater, Hope International University, as a Professor. At Pepperdine, I also serve as the Director of Student Ministry, Church Relations.

I am passionate about unity, discipleship, and many forms of bridging, whether it be concepts or networking. I want to see things come together. I tend to speak/preach with passion and conviction, sprinkled with a little humor. My reward in this existence, is seeing myself and others move one step forward as a result of each encounter, and each endeavor.

I have over 20 years of experience in the social work field where I developed a passion for helping people help themselves. Although my favorite sport is baseball, I received a basketball scholarship to Florida A&M University. My favorite food changes each week, and I’ve read over 70 Star Wars books, which might just make me a Jedi. May the Force be with you. My commitment to the work of unity derives from Jesus’ prayer that we might be one in John 17. It still cuts me to the heart to this day when I read it. My favorite quote is: “Every man who stands to proclaim the Word should speak with something of the bold authority of the Word itself,” by A.W. Tozer.