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Ouachita honors 336 graduates during 131st spring commencement

Ouachita honors 336 graduates during 131st spring commencement.May 15, 2018 - Brooke Zimny

Ouachita Baptist University celebrated 336 graduates during its 131st spring commencement on Saturday, May 12, with university officials conferring Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Music, Bachelor of Music Education, Bachelor of Fine Arts and Associate of Arts degrees. Dr. Ben Sells, Ouachita president, presided over the annual commencement exercises.

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“As a residential, Christian liberal arts university, place matters,” Dr. Sells said as he opened the ceremony. “Today we’re gathered purposely in front of our most historic structure, Cone-Bottoms Hall. We’re surrounded by places you have worshipped, where you’ve learned and where you’ve lived these last four years.

“You’re surrounded by many of the people who’ve helped make this day possible for you,” he added, “people who believe in you, people who continue to be for you, people who are eager to see all that God will do in and through you. Class of 2018, this ceremony is about you and celebrating your college degree. It’s about welcoming you to the Ouachita alumni family and commencing the next and exciting season in your life.”

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This year’s graduating class featured 157 honor graduates, including 33 who graduated summa cum laude with a grade point average of 3.95 or higher, 63 who graduated magna cum laude (3.75 GPA) and 61 who graduated cum laude (3.5 GPA). University officials also recognized 39 graduates who completed Ouachita’s Carl Goodson Honors Program and 31 members of the Alpha Chi national honor society.

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Dr. Sells shared “Wisdom for Ouachitonians,” insights drawn from Proverbs, as his commencement address.

“Your Ouachita education and experience provide you a wonderful foundation – from working and studying with faculty and staff to living, learning and worshipping together,” he said. “Our university theme this year is ‘Love God and learning.’ It comes from our vision statement, and the integration of the two cultivates wisdom.

“Let me leave you with these last two Proverbs on this special day,” he concluded. “If you follow them, they will make you wiser and give you a life with fewer regrets: ‘Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life,’ (Proverbs 4:23) and ‘Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.’ (Proverbs 3:5-6)”

Senior Class President Lauren Ford, a political science major from Cabot, Ark., led the commencement invocation. The university’s vision, mission and values statement was read by Rickey Rogers, dean of students; Kori Bullard, a biology major from Pearcy, Ark.; and Dr. Rachel Pool, assistant professor of education. Scripture reading was led by the top three graduates from the Pruet School of Christian Studies: Ashley Sharpe, a Christian studies/Christian missions and Christian theology major from Houston, Texas; Sarah Shepard, a Christian studies/Christian missions, Christian ministries and Christian theology major from Benton, Ark.; and Kristopher Torres, a Christian studies/Christian missions major from Aguadilla, Puerto Rico.

Dr. Terry Carter, W.O. Vaught Professor of Christian Ministries, and Dr. Ray Granade, director of library services and professor of history, served as commencement marshals. Honorary marshals were Dr. Scott Holsclaw, professor emeritus of theatre arts, and Dr. Phil Rice, professor emeritus of business administration. Additionally, two emeriti administrative staff were recognized: Sharon Cosh, director of English as a second language emerita, and Phil Hardin, assistant to the president for administration emeritus.

President Sells noted that these emeriti faculty and staff members “are emblematic of an unbroken chain of loyal and effective service that is linked to Ouachita’s founding.”

Ouachita Baptist University, a leading liberal arts university, is ranked nationally among “America’s Best Colleges” by U.S. News & World Report and Forbes magazines and has been named the top private university in Arkansas by Niche.com. Founded in Arkadelphia in 1886, Ouachita seeks to foster a love of God and a love of learning in a Christ-centered learning community.

See more ceremony details at https://obu.edu/news/2018/05/07/ouachita-hold-131st-spring-commencement-ceremony-may-12/ and more about the retiring faculty and staff members who were honored at https://obu.edu/news/2018/05/10/ouachita-retirees-honored-200-years-combined-service/. Watch the full commencement video at https://livestream.com/obu/commencement2018.


 

Students who were recognized at the May 12 ceremony include the following, in order of hometown:

Aguadilla, Puerto Rico – Kris Torres graduated summa cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian Studies/Christian Missions

Alexander, Ark. – Anna Darr graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Musical Theatre; Madison Mayfield graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology; Kelsey Norton graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology

Alice, Texas – Gabby Gonzalez graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology

Allen, Texas – Mary Daniels graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and Sociology; Morgan Reynolds graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music; Alden Zuck graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration/Management;

Alma, Ark. – Rachel Clifton graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Music Education degree in Instrumental

Argyle, Texas – Kelsey Harrison graduated cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Middle School Education

Arkadelphia, Ark. – Brittany Beaver graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology and Biology; Chris Clark graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Finance and Business Administration/Entrepreneurship; Seth Daniell graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Music  degree in Music Composition; Allison Fowler graduated magna cum laude Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Kinesiology/Leisure Studies Pre-Professional; Jake Knight graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Finance and Business Administration/Management; John Franklin Matros graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Accounting and Finance; Shelby McCollett graduated cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders; Taylor Parsons graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and Sociology; Matthew Savage graduated summa cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biomedical Sciences; Emily Schleiff graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration/Management; Callie Smith graduated cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian Studies/Christian Ministry and Mass Communications; Alexa Spinks graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education; Austin White graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology

Arlington, Tenn. – Jesse Webb graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History

Arlington, Texas – Rebekah Cobb graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology; Caden Flint graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration/Management

Armorel, Ark. – Victoria Anderson graduated summa cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and Mass Communications

Ashdown, Ark. – Cassie Young graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History

Athens, Ala. – Miranda Hudleston graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mass Communications and Graphic Design

Austin, Ark. – Bryce Shepard graduated May 2018 with an Associate of Arts degree in Christian Studies

Avery, Texas – Briley Baird graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology; Taylor Bowles graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Adminstration/Marketing

Bailey, Texas – Caleb Springer graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Accounting and Business Administration/Sport Management

Bald Knob, Ark. – Shelby Reams graduated cum laude Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Finance

Bauxite, Ark. – Brady Thompson graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Finance and Business Administration/Entrepreneurship

Bedford, Texas – Jonathan Arosemena graduated cum laude Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Finance

Beebe, Ark. – Sarah Davis graduated summa cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian Studies/Christian Ministry and Mass Communications

Benton, Ark. – Candee Jo Bloxom graduated cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology; Shelby Burchfield graduated cum laude Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology; Julie Feimster graduated cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology; Michi Forbess graduated cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology; Natalie Hampel graduated cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology; Brian Krikorian graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration/Entrepreneurship and Management and Marketing; Layten Moseley graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology; Allison Reynolds graduated cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Finance; Laura Smith graduated summa cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders and Psychology; Dylan Summerville graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian Studies/Christian Theology and Christian Ministry; Rebekah Van Cleave graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders

Bentonville, Ark. – Olivia Allbright graduated cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology; Blake Crossno graduated Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration; Katelyn Matlock graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education; Madison White graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology

Bilbao, Spain – Aitor López Bretón graduated summa cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science

Birmingham, Ala. – Jamie Flowers graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian Studies/Christian Ministry and Biblical Studies

Bismarck, Ark. – Addison Crow graduated summa cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and Secondary Education; Emily Flowers graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Graphic Design and Mass Communications

Bolingbrook, Ill. – Elizabeth Fast graduated summa cum laude Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Nutrition and Dietetics

Bryant, Ark. – Rachel Bacon graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Spanish and a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology; Jillian Battaglia graduated cum laude Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration/Management; Taylor Draper graduated Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology; Sarah Shepard graduated summa cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian Studies/Christian Missions and Christian Ministry and Christian Theology; Nathan Terry graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology; Hope Wakeling graduated summa cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian Studies/Christian Ministry; Carly Yazza graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and Secondary Education

Bulawayo, Zimbabwe – Nonsi Nxumalo graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Finance and Business Administration/Management; A.J. Stambolie graduated magna cum laude Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and Mass Communications

Cabot, Ark. – Lauren Ford graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science; Seth Fox graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Physics; Kason Kimbrell graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration/Sport Management and Marketing; Jessica Stanley graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration/Management and Marketing; Wade Warren graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology; Kelsey Westlake graduated May 2018 with an Associate of Arts degree in General Studies

Camden, Ark. – Connor O'Dell graduated Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Kinesiology/Fitness; Ben Worley graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Accounting and Finance

Camp Hill, Pa. – Ben Cockrell graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science and Social Justice

Carrollton, Texas – Griffin Crocker graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration/Sport Management; Danielle Droste graduated cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mass Communications; Tricia Griffin graduated summa cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Graphic Design; Kaytee Karnes graduated cum laude Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration/Marketing; Kaytlin Mackie graduated Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology; Logan Turner graduated cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian Studies/Biblical Studies and Christian Missions

Cedar Park, Texas – Kristina Beall graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and Mathematics

Celina, Texas – Taylor Barr graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Speech Communication

Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada – Jan Whytock graduated Aug. 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Art/Studio Art

Clinton, Ark. – Christian Fuel graduated Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History

Coffeyville, Kan. – Elijah Jones graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration/Management

Colleyville, Texas – Jordan Jones graduated Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Kinesiology/Fitness

Collierville, Tenn. – Matthew Phillips graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration/Finance and Computer Science

Colorado Springs, Colo. – Nathan Loftin graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Accounting and Finance

Conway, Ark. – Kyle Alexander graduated cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration/Management; Emily Bradley graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and Spanish; Ally Brasko graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian Studies/Biblical Studies; Braeden Gregg graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English; Logan Hampton III graduated magna cum laude Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Accounting and Finance; Madison Heller graduated May 2018 with an Associate of Arts degree in General Studies; Katie Kemp graduated cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mass Communications and Spanish; Mallory Lester graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Accounting and Finance; Vanessa Magana graduated May 2018 with an Associate of Arts degree in General Studies; Kaitlyn Morris graduated May 2018 with an Associate of Arts degree in General Studies; Casey Roark graduated cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biomedical Sciences; Victoria Singleton graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mass Communications; Andrew Steely graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Kinesiology/Teaching and Education; Tanner Thone graduated May 2018 with an Associate of Arts degree in General Studies; JV Vinson graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mass Communications; Nick Walker graduated May 2018 with an Associate of Arts degree in Christian Studies; Mikala Wooley graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders

Covington, La. – Jennifer Bracey graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration/Magagement

D'Hanis, Texas – Morgan Lynch graduated summa cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biomedical Sciences

Dacula, Ga. – Canyon Moore graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Kinesiology/Fitness

De Queen, Ark. – Ashley Davis graduated Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education; Paige Morphew graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders; Kolbie Tollett graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Speech Communication

Donaldson, Ark. – Morgan Cansler graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Graphic Design

El Dorado, Ark. – Meredith Bolin graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology; Mason Clay graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology; Alyson Cole graduated summa cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology; Kacy Earnest-Spears graduated cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mass Communications; Anna Norris graduated summa cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Middle School Education; Ty Owens graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology; Hannah Pagan graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology; Lucas Reed graduated Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Accounting and Finance; Sarah Sandy graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology; Kasey Smith graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Accounting; Kaitlyn Thomas graduated cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology

England, Ark. – Cyntanna Hawkins graduated summa cum laude Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology

Farmersville, Texas – Hailee Lanier graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education

Fayetteville, Ark. – Rachel Dilatush graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology and Biology and a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology

Flower Mound, Texas – Weston Cronan graduated cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration/Management; Tyler Mouton graduated cum laude Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Accounting and Business Administration/Sport Management; Kelly Powell graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Accounting and Finance

Forney, Texas – Jordan Raglin graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and Business Administration/Management

Fort Smith, Ark. – Taylor Dooly graduated cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education; Cody Walls graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Musical Theatre

Frisco, Texas – Chandler Blake graduated summa cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Finance and Business Administration/Entrepreneurship; Caitlin Cantrell graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Nutrition and Dietetics; Matthew Miller graduated Aug. 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration/Finance; Michael Richardson, Jr. graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian Studies/Christian Ministry and Mass Communications; Chad Satchell graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Graphic Design

Garland, Texas – Travis Blanton III graduated Aug. 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music; Elizabeth Schutter graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Music Education degree in Choral

Gilmer, Texas – Sean Ray graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian Studies/Christian Missions and Biblical Studies

Grand Prairie, Texas – Rebecca Bowron graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration/Entrepreneurship

Greenbrier, Ark. – Nick DuChemin graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration/Management; Ashley Page graduated May 2018 with an Associate of Arts degree in Christian Studies; Holden Strackbein graduated May 2018 with an Associate of Arts degree in Christian Studies

Gunter, Texas – Madeline Rowe graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders

Gurdon, Ark. – Austin Kirkpatrick graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian Studies/Christian Theology

Hamburg, Ark. – Logan Morris graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration/Management and Marketing

Harare, Zimbabwe – Tristan Benzon graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and Psychology; Gail Lange-Smith graduated magna cum laude Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Nutrition and Dietetics

Harrah, Okla. – Riley Bunyard graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Finance

Hayesville, N.C. – Kinsey Nelson graduated summa cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Kinesiology/Leisure Studies Pre-Professional and Biology

Heber Springs, Ark. – Matt Woodson graduated Dec. 2017 with an Associate of Arts degree in General Studies

Heemstede, The Netherlands – Victor Draijer graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration/Management and Marketing

Hooks, Texas – Baylee McBride graduated summa cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology and Kinesiology/Leisure Studies Pre-Professional

Hoover, Ala. – Meredith Jackson graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian Studies/Biblical Studies

Hope, Ark. – Riley Madlock graduated Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mass Communications

Hot Springs Village, Ark. – Andrew Martin graduated summa cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Theatre Arts; Katie Stanage graduated cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Art/Studio Art and Mass Communications

Hot Springs, Ark. – Alex Abbott graduated cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology; Kevin Barnard graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mass Communications; Addison Bostian graduated cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science; Hannah Cook graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology; Sean Faught graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History; Gideon Garcia graduated Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Music Education degree in Choral; Margaret Geoffrion graduated cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Music degree in Worship Arts; Chris Hegwood graduated cum laude Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Accounting; Miles Irwin graduated Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration/Finance and Marketing; Kyle Jackson graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian Studies/Christian Ministry; Hayley Morrison graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Physics/Mathematics and Secondary Education; Madison Parks graduated magna cum laude Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration/Management and Marketing; Van O'Rorke graduated Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Music Education degree in Instrumental; Cole Pitts graduated Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian Studies/Biblical Studies and Christian Missions; Haley Jo Wesson graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders; Haley Whitworth graduated cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and Secondary Education

Houston, Texas – Ian Deetz graduated magna cum laude Aug. 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Computer Science; John Rachal II graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration/Management; Ashley Sharpe graduated summa cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian Studies/Christian Missions and Christian Theology; Staci Spencer-Roth graduated cum laude Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian Studies

Indianola, Miss. – Kaitlyn Watson graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music and Psychology

Jacksonville, Ark. – Justin McCleary graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Kinesiology/Fitness

Jacksonville, Fla. – Nick Kowalkowski graduated cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and Chemistry

Jonesboro, Ark. – Mason Griffin graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science; Will Stotts graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Musical Theatre

Junction City, Ark. – Shaq Hunter graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Kinesiology/Fitness

Kandern, Germany – Ryan Perrin graduated May 2018 with an Associate of Arts degree in General Studies

Kennedale, Texas – Edward Pacheco graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration/Management

Kingwood, Texas – Tim Clay graduated May 2018 with an Associate of Arts degree in Christian Studies

Knoxville, Ark. – Crystal Brown graduated cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Physics and Computer Science

Kyle, Texas – Taryn Bailey graduated cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mass Communications and Speech Communication

Land O'Lakes, Fla. – Richard Resnick II graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mass Communications

Lavon, Texas – Morgan Howard graduated cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and Mass Communications

Leesburg, Va. – Chris DiGiovanni graduated cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and Mass Communications

Lindale, Texas – Karley Telfer graduated Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Graphic Design

Little Rock, Ark. – Madeleine Brodell graduated Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mass Communications and Graphic Design; Katherine Carter graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian Studies/Christian Missions and Sociology; Michael Carter graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Finance and Business Administration/Management; Callie Clement graduated cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology; Katie Dreher graduated summa cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology; Hannah Hart graduated cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Spanish and a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry and Biology; Savannah Hill graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration/Marketing; Nick Hayes graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology; Audra Halbert graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics; Kelly Hinkson graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian Studies; Andrew Ingram graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Accounting; Wesley Keener graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education; Taylor Lockhart graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and Spanish; Bethany Long graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders; Abigail Mills graduated Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Nutrition and Dietetics; Kaysi Roussel graduated cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian Studies/Christian Ministry; Chris Rycraw graduated Aug. 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Kinesiology/Recreation; Kinzie Schmidt graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Graphic Design; Anna Caroline Strickland graduated cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders; Reed Walsh graduated summa cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Accounting and Finance

Lonoke, Ark. – Victoria Lackey graduated cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Spanish and a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology

Magnolia, Ark. – Alex Gianelloni graduated cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian Studies/Christian Missions and Christian Theology and Biblical Studies

Malvern, Ark. – Emily Brosius graduated Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mass Communications and Speech Communication

Manila, Ark. – Krystal Parker graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian Studies/Christian Ministry and Biblical Studies

Mansfield, Texas – Alyssa Delker graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration/Marketing

Marion, Ark. – Jonathan Duncan graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration/Management and Entrepreneurship; Buzz Hardin graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology

Maumelle, Ark. – Chris Baggett graduated Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Theatre Arts; Brooks Parker graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration/Management; Sarah Pettit graduated summa cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education; Aaron Woodall graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biomedical Sciences

McKinney, Texas – Dillon Farrell graduated magna cum laude Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Finance and Business Administration/Management; Carlos Garcia, Jr. graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Finance and Business Administration/Marketing; Preston Speers graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration/Marketing; Sewell Yost graduated Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration/Marketing

Memphis, Tenn. – Phoebe O'Connor graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and Sociology; Hailey Thompson graduated cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History

Mena, Ark. – Allison Austin graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Theatre Arts

Merrillville, Ind. – Hannah Dixon graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology

Midwest City, Okla. – Mattie Alexander graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Theatre Arts and Mass Communications

Millerville, Ala. – Luke Holt graduated cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Kinesiology/Fitness

Monticello, Ark. – Morgan Baugh II graduated Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Kinesiology/Recreation

Morrilton, Ark. – Sarah Engebrecht graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Graphic Design

Moscow, Russia – Lina Tsymbalova graduated cum laude Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Finance and Business Administration/Management

Mount Vernon, Texas – Sarah Johnson graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Kinesiology/Fitness

Nashville, Ark. – Cameron Alexander graduated cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and Secondary Education; Luke Dawson graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mathematics and Secondary Education; Rachel Dawson graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian Studies/Biblical Studies; Jayla Jacques graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders and Psychology

New Iberia, La. – Bryce Davidson graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration/Marketing

Newport, Ark. – Stephen Neal graduated Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Kinesiology/Fitness

North Augusta, S.C. – Grace Powell graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian Studies/Christian Missions

North Little Rock, Ark. – Eric Bentley graduated Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian Studies/Christian Ministry and Christian Theology; Nolan Games graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Computer Science and a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology; Jessica McCauley graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology and Business Administration/Management; Kaylie Roberts graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology

Ozark, Ark. – Megan Williams graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology

Paragould, Ark. – Hannah Bunch graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and Political Science

Paris, Texas – Jeremy Beshirs graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Kinesiology/Leisure Studies Pre-Professional; Michael Cade graduated cum laude Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology; Victoria White graduated summa cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Accounting

Pearcy, Ark. – Kori Bullard graduated summa cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology; Justin Crumpler graduated Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian Studies/Philosophy

Phoenix, Ariz. – Dani Barney graduated Dec. 2017 with an Associate of Arts degree in General Studies

Piqua, Ohio – Katie Butts graduated Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Computer Science

Pittsburg, Okla. – Cheyenne Anderson graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders

Plano, Texas – Michiko Griffin graduated Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian Studies/Christian Missions

Prairie Grove, Ark. – J.D. Speed graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration/Management and Marketing

Prescott, Ark. – Brandon Marks graduated Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Middle School Education

Prosper, Texas – Rebekah Arredondo graduated Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Graphic Design; Barbara Pascale graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders

Queen City, Texas – Shelby Hudson graduated Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and Psychology

Quitman, Ark. – Cody Foster graduated May 2018 with an Associate of Arts degree in General Studies

Riverton, Wyo. – Taylor Bascue graduated cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian Studies/Biblical Studies and Christian Ministry and Biblical Languages

Rockwall, Texas – Matthew Alderman graduated cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration/Finance

Rogers, Ark. – Esther Atkinson graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Music  degree in Musical Theatre; Kesley Brown graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biomedical Sciences; Garrett Hudson graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration/Management and Marketing; Erin Lundy graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology; Garrett Moore graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mass Communications; Madison Prowell graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration/Management and Marketing; Emma Seay graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian Studies/Christian Missions

Roland, Ark. – Brandon Monk graduated cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Finance and Business Administration/Marketing; Michael Peré graduated cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Musical Theatre

Royse City, Texas – Andy Henderson graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mass Communications

Russellville, Ark. – Emily Cooper graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology; Hannah Hines graduated summa cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mass Communications and a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Musical Theatre

Ruston, La. – Shelton Wooley graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Graphic Design

Saint Louis, Mo. – Chris Morrison graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Finance

San Antonio, Texas – Sarah Fish graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Accounting

Sanger, Texas – JoBeth Guerra graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Nutrition and Dietetics

Sardis, Ark. – Chris Godwin graduated summa cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biomedical Sciences

Searcy, Ark. – Amanda Abbud graduated summa cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Finance and Business Administration/Management; Alicia Hamilton Moore graduated cum laude Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology; Luke Moore graduated Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Environmental Studies; Johnathan Powell graduated Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Kinesiology/Leisure Studies Pre-Professional

Sheridan, Ark. – Madison Crosby graduated cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and Chemistry; Braden Lunday graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Accounting and Finance; Cody Thompson graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology

Sherman, Texas – Lindsey Edwards graduated summa cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian Studies/Biblical Studies

Sherwood, Ark. – Alexis Weber graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders

Shreveport, La. – Katie Smith graduated summa cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Accounting and Mass Communications

Siloam Springs, Ark. – Morgan Miller graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Finance

Singapore – Kimberly Wong Yi Jin graduated magna cum laude Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English; Samuel Woo graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian Studies/Christian Theology

Somerville, Texas – Taylor Johnson graduated cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology

Sour Lake, Texas – Alex Holder graduated summa cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Accounting

Southlake, Texas – Matthew Collier graduated Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration/Management

Springdale, Ark. – Ben O'Brien graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration/Management; Clay Patrick graduated cum laude Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology; Jay Patrick graduated cum laude Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology; Katelyn Young graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education

Strong, Ark. – Jontavis Willis graduated cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Accounting and Finance

Stuttgart, Ark. – Stephanie Bell graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications and Media; Waymon Johnson, Jr. graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Kinesiology/Recreation; Jackson Kennedy graduated Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian Studies/Christian Missions; Montray Wyatt graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration/Management

Sunnyvale, Texas – Courtney Collins graduated cum laude Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Music Education degree in Choral

Teague, Texas – Nick Gibson graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Music Education degree in Instrumental

Terrell, Texas – Marcellus Hill graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mass Communications; Anna Valdez graduated cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Musical Theatre

Texarkana, Texas – Judd Cochran graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music; Adam Graves graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian Studies/Christian Ministry

The Woodlands, Texas – Weston Talley graduated Dec. 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Kinesiology/Leisure Studies Pre-Professional

Troup, Texas – Nadalie Gill graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Theatre Arts and Mass Communications

Tulsa, Okla. – Tinashe Chigede graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Accounting

Valley Center, Kan. – Sydney Van Scyoc graduated cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Nutrition and Dietetics

Van Alstyne, Texas – Ashley Lovely graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Music Education degree in Instrumental

Van Buren, Ark. – Sarah Coles graduated summa cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Accounting and Finance; Kathleen Lopez graduated May 2018 with an Associate of Arts degree in Christian Studies

Vechta, Germany – Lennart Lonnemann graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Accounting and Finance

Vilonia, Ark. – Christian Gunter graduated May 2018 with an Associate of Arts degree in Christian Studies

Ward, Ark. – Paul Babcock graduated May 2018 with an Associate of Arts degree in General Studies

Warren, Ark. – Loren Bennett graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders

West Helena, Ark. – Shamonica Brown graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology

West Memphis, Ark. – Lindsey Swafford graduated cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology

White Hall, Ark. – Sydney Allen graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology; Jennifer Hudson graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History; Camryn Ruggeri graduated magna cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology; Aaron Sprinkle graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History

Wylie, Texas – Jacob Hemsath graduated summa cum laude May 2018 with a Bachelor of Music degree in Musical Theatre; Addie Matthews graduated May 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mass Communications

 

 

By Brooke Zimny // Photos by Alex Blankenship
May 15, 2018

 

 

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