As a songwriter for Black River Music Publishing, which is located along Music Row in Nashville, Tenn., Josh Kerr ’14 is living the dream. He recently co-wrote the song “Love Me Like You Mean It” with rising country-pop star Kelsea Ballerini. This debut single rose to No. 1 on Billboard’s Country Airplay chart. Nearly 10 years after country superstar Carrie Underwood topped the same chart with her debut single “Jesus, Take the Wheel,” Ballerini is only the second female country artist to claim this honor. In appreciation for his Messiah education, Kerr presented President Kim Phipps with a gold album, which symbolizes sales and streaming of 500,000 copies certified by the Recording Industry Association of American. “I was surprised and delighted to receive this thoughtful gift from Josh,” said President Phipps. “It has been a privilege to witness how Josh established a clear goal and worked tirelessly to achieve it. The record will be proudly displayed at Orchard Hill [the president’s residence].” — Myriam Pedercini ’17