A total of 136 graduates, a record for winter commencement at Anderson University, crossed the stage to receive diplomas Dec. 14.
AU has broken enrollment records for six consecutive years, and graduation numbers reflect that growth. AU passed the 2,900 mark in enrollment this year.
The commencement exercises featured the awarding of bachelor’s degrees to traditional undergraduate students as well as those from the evening ACCEL program. Of the 136 diplomas awarded, 48 graduate students in education, ministry, criminal justice and business received master’s degrees.
Ryan Neal, faculty chair at Anderson, delivered the commencement address, giving graduates a “to do” list that included serving, reading and traveling. Neal is associate professor of Christian studies and serves as co-director of the university’s honors program.
John Thomas Hellams Jr., vice president of LifeWay Christian Resources, received the Alumni Achievement Award. Hellams graduated from Anderson in 1980 and met his wife, who also graduated from Anderson, while both were students. – AU