Charleston Southern University held its commencement ceremony May 9 at the North Charleston Coliseum. A total of 313 students received undergraduate and graduate degrees.

CSU commencement speaker Tom Hood

The commencement speech was delivered by Tom Hood, president and CEO of First Financial Holding, Inc. Hood told the graduates they were inheriting a dangerous and broken world, citing a global financial system in turmoil, skyrocketing unemployment, and loss of confidence in leadership at all levels of our nation and world. “Charleston Southern students, more than any other time in our history, we need you, the graduating class of 2009. We need your imagination, your hope, your optimism, your commitment, your leadership, and most of all your faith – your dreams.”

An honorary doctor of laws degree was conferred upon Hood for his service to the community. Johnny Ward of Moncks Corner received an honorary doctor of public service degree. As past chairman of the board of trustees, Ward has devoted time and resources to the betterment of the university. He serves as a member of the Board of Visitors.

For Edwin Squirewell, the journey from the small rural town of Ridgeway, S.C., and a college degree is a first for his family. A biochemistry major, Squirewell has been awarded the Dean’s Merit Graduate Fellowship at the University of Iowa, where he will receive an annual stipend of $25,000, plus tuition and fees. Squirewell will spend the next five years working toward a Ph.D. His concentration will include research in the strategies of drug recovery, analysis and design. As he prepares for the next phase of his life, Squirewell adds, “I’ve been given so many opportunities to better myself; it’s impossible to doubt that God has a greater purpose for me.”

The distinguished service award was presented to Freda Turner Ott. The Ott family has been actively involved with the university for many years, serving on the Women’s Council, Board of Visitors and Buccaneer Club.

“Each of us graduating this year has different stories and experiences that have led to this point in our lives,” said Meghan Gerrity, vice president of the student body, who gave the senior class statement. “We are all grateful for those who helped us get to this point. Let us not forget that we have been prepared as graduates and our lives have been transformed by the power of Jesus Christ. Our degrees will enable us to not only get a job in the real world but to also influence the change it needs.” – CSU