Ralph E. Givins
Ralph Givins was born in Port St. Joe, Florida, and attended Florida A&M University High School. He graduated from the University of Maine at Fort Kent in 1978, earning a Bachelor of Science in Social Science.
While a student-athlete, Ralph served as the captain of the Men’s Basketball team for three years and took on the role of head coach during the 77-78 season, leading the Bengals to an impressive 12-6 record. He was not only an elite player but also an essential leader for the UMFK Men’s Basketball program. He became a 1,000-point scorer and garnered numerous accolades, including an All Small-College Maine nomination (’73-’74), two selections to the UMFK All-Tournament Team (’73-’74 and ’75-’76), a Laval All-Tournament Team selection (’73-’74), the UMFK Team Sportsmanship Award (’73-’74), and the UMFK Tournament MVP (’75-’76). His contributions were instrumental in leading the team to a berth in the 1977 NAIA National Tournament.
After graduating from UMFK, Ralph became a teacher and coach at Florida A&M University High School and Havana Northside High School. He is an ordained deacon and licensed minister, and in 2020, he was appointed as the Executive Pastor of New and Living Way Christian Ministries.
Ralph currently works as a program analyst for the Smithsonian Institution, where he was honored with the prestigious Smithsonian Director’s Award this year. He is deeply committed to his community, dedicating his time to mentorship, providing meals to the homeless, and serving in prison ministry.
Ralph Givins is a devoted family man. He is married to his beloved wife, Linda, and they are the proud parents of four children, five grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.
As Ralph reflects on his journey, one marked by resilience, dedication, and a passion for service, he recognizes that the true measure of success lies not in accolades but in the lives he has touched. With every mentorship session, every meal shared with those in need, and every moment spent with family, Ralph continues to build a legacy of love. His story is not just his own; it is a testament to the power of God, the strength of family, and the enduring impact of a life lived with purpose. As he looks to the future, he embraces the belief that the best is still yet to come.
