Southeastern University alumnus Sam Simon, ’20 has been recognized with one of Christian music’s highest honors. As a producer on Chandler Moore’s album Live in Los Angeles, he won a Dove Award for Gospel Worship Album of the Year! He was also nominated for Gospel Worship Album of the Year for his role as producer for The Maverick Way Reimagined by Maverick City Music.
While the award itself is a significant achievement, the moment carried even deeper meaning for Sam. He was not in the room when his name was called at the awards. He was going through a particularly heavy season of grief with his family due to the passing of his brother. In fact, he had nearly forgotten about the awards altogether! It was later that Sam learned he had won.
Giving God the Glory
Rather than focusing on the spotlight, Sam reflects on the recognition as something far quieter and more personal. He shared that the award felt like “a meaningful reminder of God’s faithfulness and the quiet fruit of years of obedience, discipline, and service through music.” The moment stood as reassurance to him that God is still present and still at work.
Sam credits his time at SEU as a foundational season in his life. “My faith and drive for excellence were intentionally developed together,” he shared. “During my time at SEU, I was encouraged to pursue my calling to music while remaining grounded in spiritual formation.”
He points to SEU’s environment, mentorship, and community as shaping his musical skill set, and his understanding of stewardship, leadership, and purpose. All of these continue to guide his work today.
A Testimony to Faith
Sam’s journey is a powerful reminder that faithfulness over time often bears fruit in unexpected ways. His Dove Award win is a celebration of professional achievement, but most importantly, it is also a testimony to trust and faith.
Congratulations, Sam, on this well-deserved honor! We are celebrating with you and can’t wait to see how else God will use the calling He has placed on your life.
Learn More
GMA Dove Awards
Live in Los Angeles
The Maverick Way Reimagined
SEU Worship Performs at the 56th Annual Dove Awards
Listen to SEU Worship
Worship Studies Degree
Spiritual Formation at SEU
Apply to SEU
