HANNIBAL – Beautiful weather reflected the bright spirits of approximately 250 graduates as they walked across the stage in ceremonial regalia to shake the hand of HLGU’s President, Anthony Allen, and receive their diplomas on Saturday, May 9.
“The greatest joy that I have as president is to see our students discover, develop, and demonstrate God’s purpose for their lives,” said Allen in his welcoming remarks. “For the graduating class of 2015, this day marks the achievement of goals set long ago, and met through diligent study and hard work and personal sacrifice.”
The commencement address was brought by Rod Martin an HLGU trustee and distinguished visiting professor. Martin, founder and CEO of The Martin Organization, is a technology entrepreneur, futurist, fund manager, and author from Destin, Florida.
Martin’s address centered on the great technology and future that is knocking on the door.
“There is a golden age upon us, but the challenge for you lies in this, not merely will you rise to the opportunities before you, but will it be the kind of golden age that you want to live in, that you want your grandchildren to live in? Because it could just as easily be a golden age like that of Nineveh, or Babylon, or Rome where everything glitters, but everything is barbaric. That is entirely in your hands. So take what you got here for the last four years and do something great with it,” said Martin. “I want to charge you to go out and make us proud. This can be the greatest time in human history so far. Make it that.”
Following the presentation of graduates, Lea Yamout and Nathan Hammock, nominated Who’s Who Among Seniors at HLGU, led the graduates in the graduate pledge and in giving a standing ovation to thank all friends and family for their support.
Special music during the ceremony was presented by Mrs. Jessica Spurgeon ‘08, Mr. Nathan Hammock ‘14, and Mr. Patrick Hedges ‘05. Accompanied by Mrs. Janis Newbold, the trio performed the song “You Raise Me Up.”
Prior to the ceremony, the graduates processed through the HLGU arch on the traditional Walk of Honor, symbolizing the end of their schooling and their entrance into the world as college graduates.