David Blandford

The event celebrated the graduation of the Class of 2024, marking an important educational milestone. Addresses were given by a representative of the Board of Trustees emphasizing the college's mission and the perseverance of the students, followed by an invocation. The President of Adrian College welcomed guests and honored the graduates, noting their character and future contributions. An outstanding student speaker shared life lessons, including the importance of remembering one's original purpose, consistently exceeding expectations, taking leadership over one's life, and seizing opportunities. An honorary degree, Doctor of Humane Letters, was conferred upon Reverend Dr. Christopher P. Momy, acknowledging his work in Christian legacies of Human Rights, his scholarship on abolitionism, and his efforts regarding racial justice and the documentation of a 19th-century slave trade journal.

The service began with introductions, noting that Dylan would be preaching using slides and mentioning the growing praise team. Announcements included updates on group meeting times, such as AX meeting at 8:30, and a call for volunteers to lead a Day of Prayer event on campus during the spring, which involves collecting anonymous prayer requests. The upcoming Ash Wednesday service was described as the beginning of the Lenten season, involving special prayers and the option to receive ashes as a reminder of human imperfection. The message focused on Acts 3:1-11, discussing the request for alms by a beggar who had been lame for 40 years and the apostles' response, contrasting material charity with a greater gift. The service concluded with music and prayer.

The document appears to be a transcript or minutes from a Baccalaureate Service. Key discussion points included reflections on the graduating class of 2024, emphasizing that their college careers involved many 'firsts' and resilience, such as navigating community service requirements and unexpected challenges. Speakers shared gratitude towards classmates, faculty, mentors, coaches, training staff, Greek life community, President Daing, and parents for their support throughout the four years. Scripture readings were presented, focusing on themes of gratitude, reflection, and encouragement for the future, including passages from John 6 and Mark 10 regarding faith, sight, and mercy. The overall tone was celebratory, reflective, and hopeful for the graduates' future endeavors.

The event was an annual honors awards ceremony recognizing the academic accomplishments of Adrian College students. Key segments included remarks from the President, Jeffrey R. Docking, and the Vice President and Dean of Academic Affairs, Dr. Andrea Milner, following an opening prayer. The ceremony also recognized students who presented or performed during the Ribbons of Excellence day, which celebrates the college's commitment to experiential education based on five distinctions: engage students, rate teaching, vibrant community, and successful outcomes. The program included recognizing students in the Honors Program, presenting Department Awards, presenting the annual Outstanding Ribbons of Excellence Program Award, and acknowledging students who achieved a perfect 4.0 GPA. Specific department awards highlighted included the Ross Latham Junior Memorial Freshman Chemistry Award, the Voigt/BASF Corporation Chemistry Scholarship Award, and departmental awards for Computer Science (freshman, sophomore, and junior levels).

The strategic plan for Alma College focuses on several key themes: Purpose and Place, Creating a Just, Supportive, and Inclusive Community, New Programs and Innovation, Experiential Learning, and Financial Vitality. It aims to connect with the local community, promote environmental sustainability, and expand external relationships. The plan also emphasizes fostering a diverse and inclusive campus environment, developing new academic programs, enhancing experiential learning opportunities, and ensuring financial stability through responsible spending and endowment growth. Key goals include increasing student engagement, improving retention rates, and expanding accessibility to transfer and international students.