Southwestern Adventist University marked another milestone in its academic journey as it celebrated its annual commencement ceremony, honoring the hard work and achievements of its graduating class. The ceremony, held on Sunday, May 5, 2024, was a testament to the dedication and perseverance of the students, faculty, and staff who contributed to the success of the graduating class.
The commencement address was delivered by Benjamin Lundquist, a renowned motivational speaker known for inspiring young individuals to pursue their goals with determination and faith. Lundquist's message resonated with the graduating class, urging them to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and to remain steadfast in their pursuit of excellence.
Among the highlights of the ceremony was the conferral of Honorary Doctoral degrees bestowed upon two distinguished alums, Dr. Barbara Damron and Bilung Gloria Gibbon Salii, Queen of Palau. Both recipients were recognized for their exceptional contributions to their respective fields and their unwavering commitment to serving their communities. Dr. Damron, a tenured professor of nursing and a prominent figure in higher education, was honored for her outstanding leadership and dedication to advancing healthcare and education. Bilung Gloria Gibbon Salii, a revered leader in Palau, was celebrated for her tireless efforts in preserving tradition, promoting cultural heritage, and advocating for women's rights.
The commencement service showcased the academic achievements of 99 candidates for the May Class of 2024 and 12 candidates from the August cohort. The top three departments represented by the most candidates were the Nursing, Education, and Business Departments, reflecting the diverse academic interests and talents of the student body.
As the ceremony drew to a close, SWAU President Ana Patterson expressed her pride in the graduating class and offered words of encouragement for future endeavors, emphasizing the importance of staying connected to their alma mater and remaining engaged as part of the SWAU community.
Faculty, staff, and families joined in the celebration, cheering on the graduates as they crossed the stage to receive their diplomas. Amidst the joy and excitement of graduation, there was a sense of bittersweet nostalgia as students bid farewell to the place they called home and embarked on a new chapter in their lives.