Ouachita Stories

Click here to download photos from Ouachita’s 2019 commencement ceremony. Use password OBUgrad2019.

Ouachita Baptist University celebrated 345 graduates during its 132^nd spring commencement on Saturday, May 11, 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.

“Class of 2019, you’re surrounded by people who helped make this day possible for you,” Dr. Sells said as he opened the ceremony, “people who believe in you, people who are going to continue to be for you, people who are eager to see all that God will do in and through you. This ceremony is about you and celebrating your college degree. It’s about welcoming you to the Ouachita alumni family and commencing this next and exciting season in your life.”

This year’s graduating class featured 167 honor graduates, including 41 who graduated summa cum laude with a grade point average of 3.95 or higher, and 28 of those said students graduating with a 4.0 GPA; 59 who graduated magna cum laude (3.75 GPA); and 67 who graduated cum laude (3.5 GPA). University officials also recognized 31 graduates who completed Ouachita’s Carl Goodson Honors Program.

Four students were recognized as commissioned officers from the Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC): Aaron Clayton, a computer science major from Spring, Texas; Ben Elliott, a biology major from Mount Clemens, Mich.; Jon Lock, a business administration/management major from Hughes, Ark.; and Kyle Sickel, a speech communication major from Clarksville, Tenn. Each earned the rank of Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army.

In his commencement address, Dr. Sells reflected on the university’s 2018-2019 campus-wide discussion around the theme “Lives of Meaningful Work,” a phrase taken from Ouachita’s mission statement.

“It speaks to one of Ouachita’s desired outcomes for our graduates: that you will be prepared for lives of meaningful work,” Sells said.

    

Citing a study by Gallup, Inc. entitled “The Future of Work,” which surveyed 2 million employees in America over 10 years, Dr. Sells said the study found that only one-third of those employees felt their work was meaningful. Gallup also determined that those who felt this satisfaction held two shared college experiences: the student had a professor who influenced the student’s desire to learn or showed care for them, and the student had opportunities for hands-on learning.

“That’s what your Ouachita education and experience have given you, and what you’ve achieved through your diligence: a foundation from which you can begin your quest to find meaning in your work in all the God-honoring roles and careers that await you,” Sells said.

Dr. Sells also offered a charge to the graduates following his year-long study of Psalms, the “longest book in the Bible with 40,000 words, and it reflects on every possible human experience,” he said.

“From the passages I underlined and the notes I made, I want to share three insights that I hope will help you experience a life of meaningful work. They are: know God, be humble and do good.

“My prayer for you,” Dr. Sells continued, “is taken from a passage thinking about you and this day, Psalm 20:4: ‘May God give you the desire of your heart – and make all your plans succeed.’ Class of 2019, I’m excited about all that God will do in and through you in the coming years.”

Senior Class President Evan Nelson, a business administration/sport management major from Little Rock, Ark., led the commencement invocation. The university’s vision, mission and values statement was read by Rickey Rogers, dean of students; Rachel Roberts, director of career and calling; and Bill Elliff, member of Ouachita’s Board of Trustees. Scripture reading was led by the top graduate from the Pruet School of Christian Studies, Danielle Osborne. Osborne is a Christian studies/Christian ministries and Biblical studies major from Jonesboro, Ark. Dr. Jim Taylor, professor of biology, and Dr. Ray Granade, director of library services and professor of history, served as commencement marshals.

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. 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/2019/04/30/ouachita-hold-132nd-spring-commencement-ceremony-may-11/. Watch the full commencement video at https://livestream.com/obu/commencement2019.



Students who were recognized at the May 11 ceremony include the following, in order of hometown:

Alexander, Ark. – Mallory Mayfield graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology; Melody Pruitt graduated summa cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in social justice

Alexandria, La. – Adam Chelette graduated Dec. 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian studies/Christian ministry

Allen, Texas – Gus Roden graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian studies/Christian ministry

Alma, Ark. – Michaela Finley graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in musical theatre; Dakota Shelton graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in kinesiology & leisure studies/fitness

Altus, Ark. – Ceira Carpenter graduated summa cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in elementary education

Arkadelphia, Ark. – Haley Campbell graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in communication sciences & disorders; Charity Curlin graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology; Neeshia Harvell graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in sociology and psychology; Esther Horton graduated summa cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in finance and business administration/entrepreneurship; Jakahari Howell graduated Dec. 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in kinesiology & leisure studies/fitness; Matt Jarboe graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in kinesiology & leisure studies/recreation and sports administration; Kris Oliver graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in kinesiology & leisure studies/fitness; Jordan Philson graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Science degree in nutrition & dietetics; Angie Schleiff graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in interdisciplinary studies; Sierra Westberg graduated summa cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Music Education degree in instrumental education; Julie Williams graduated summa cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in mass communications and political science

Arlington, Tenn. – Jaret Webb graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in communication sciences and disorders

Arlington, Texas – Kat Flint graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology

Ashdown, Ark. – La'Darius McElroy graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/sport management

Atlanta, Ga. – John Clay graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology and business administration/sport management

Auburntown, Tenn. – Hannah Denninger graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in biblical languages

Batesville, Ark. – Jessica Shell graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/entrepreneurship and management; Davis Wadley graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in social justice studies

Bay, Ark. – Josiah Rutherford graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/management

Bedford, Texas – Jaden Sewell graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in finance and business administration/management

Bella Vista, Ark. – Kallie Polk graduated summa cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in elementary education

Benton, Ark. – Weslee Bettis graduated Dec. 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in biology; Harrison Ballard graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biomedical sciences; Hannah Burnett graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in elementary education; Houston Clifton graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in worship ministry; Maggie DeYoung graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English; Hannah Eddington graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/marketing; Sam Eddington graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biomedical sciences; Jake Edmondson graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology; Sam Ferguson graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in finance; Delaney Harris graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in elementary education; Drew Harris graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in kinesiology & leisure studies/teaching; Carrie Hill graduated summa cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in graphic design; Cole Jester graduated summa cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science and Christian studies/Christian theology; Robin Kelley graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in elementary education; Tiffany Lee graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in communications & media/strategic communications, multimedia journalism and sports media; Emily Manus graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science and finance; Noah Nalley graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in biology; Nick Quinn graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian studies/biblical studies; Wesley Ramsey graduated Dec. 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in graphic design

Bentonville, Ark. – Kendra Dinsmore graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/marketing; Colton Eldridge graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in accounting and finance; Brennen Kotoucek graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in music; Ashley Ray graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian studies/Christian missions and biblical studies; Will Sanders graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in finance; Scotty Scott graduated summa cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in musical theatre; McKenna Stephens graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in mass communications; Mallory Tabler graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology

Bismarck, Ark. – Jared Compton graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/marketing and sport management; Keylie Powell graduated cum laude Dec. 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/management

Blevins, Ark. – Maronica Howard graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in sociology

Booneville, Ark. – JD Sanders graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Music degree in worship arts

Bryant, Ark. – Nikki Clay graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in education and kinesiology & leisure studies/teaching; Sarah Cowell graduated summa cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in communication sciences & disorders and Spanish; Courtney Ferguson graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology and sociology; Mary Grace Hill graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in elementary education; Mackenzie Shelton graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian studies/biblical studies and Christian ministry

Camden, Ark. – Jerry Moorehead graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in kinesiology & leisure studies; Reid Rogers graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology; Jessica Snelgrove graduated summa cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology

Carrollton, Texas – Tommy Kelton graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian studies/Christian missions

Cave Springs, Ark. – Mattie Couch graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in mathematics and secondary education

Cedar Park, Texas – Travis Beall graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in mathematics

Chatsworth, Calif. – Natalia Arteaga graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in communication sciences & disorders

Chicago, Ill. – Chloe Mickle graduated May 2019 with an Associate of Arts degree in Christian studies

Clarksville, Ark. – Brittany Parker graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and political science

Clarksville, Tenn. – Kyle Sickel graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in speech communication

Collierville, Tenn. – Bo Sutton graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in environmental studies

Conway, Ark. – McKenna Arnold-Cormier graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in accounting and finance; Jackson Cormier graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in finance; David Darley graduated May 2019 with an Associate of Arts degree in general studies; Clark Garland graduated Aug. 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian studies/biblical studies; Katie Jo Henley graduated summa cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in mass communications; Mary Beth Jones graduated magna cum laude Dec. 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biomedical sciences; Ancil Lea IV graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in finance; Dawn Lippelgoes graduated May 2019 with an Associate of Arts degree in general studies; Christian Lockard graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in graphic design; McCall Lockard graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/marketing and management; Will Morris graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/marketing and management; Wesley Oliver graduated summa cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in history and public history; Madison Parsons graduated May 2019 with an Associate of Arts degree in general studies; LaRissa Sherman graduated May 2019 with an Associate of Arts degree in general studies; Caleb Smith graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Music Education degree in instrumental education; Josiah Smith graduated cum laude Dec. 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/sport management and marketing; Joseph Tilley graduated May 2019 with an Associate of Arts degree in general studies; Kayla Tyler graduated May 2019 with an Associate of Arts degree in general studies; Lexie Weaver graduated May 2019 with an Associate of Arts degree in general studies

Coppell, Texas – Colten Clark graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in kinesiology & leisure studies/fitness

Cordele, Ga. – Alex Pollock graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/sport management

Crystal River, Fla. – Taylor Wade graduated Dec. 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in elementary education

Dallas, Texas – Hannah Gray graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in communication sciences & disorders

De Queen, Ark. – Zara Kamruddin graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in interdisciplinary studies

Decatur, Texas – Stormi Leonard graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in finance, mass communications and Spanish

Delight, Ark. – Tara Ridling graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology and sociology

Denton, Texas – Wade Matheny graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in mass communications

DeWitt, Ark. – Chris Tucker graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in kinesiology & leisure studies/recreation and sports ministry

Diana, Texas – Corianne Jones graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/marketing

Dierks, Ark. – Skylar Baker graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in communication sciences & disorders

Donaldson, Ark. – Hunter McDade graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/marketing

Dumas, Ark. – Hannah Minton graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in elementary education

El Dorado, Ark. – Josh Holt graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian studies; Landin Norman graduated cum laude Dec. 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian studies/biblical studies and Christian ministry; Annie Phillips graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in history and business administration/marketing; Ernest Reed graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in kinesiology & leisure studies/fitness; Zach Street graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology; Brandon Trostle graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in applied physics and Christian studies/biblical studies

Elizabeth, Colo. – Keegan Ghidotti graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/management

Enerhodar, Ukraine – Artemii Orekhov graduated cum laude Dec. 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/finance and management

Evansville, Ind. – Lauren Terry graduated summa cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in musical theatre

Fairview, Texas – Joah Williams graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in kinesiology & leisure studies/fitness

Farmington, Ark. – Paige Purifoy graduated Dec. 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in education and kinesiology & leisure studies/teaching

Fayetteville, Ark. – Grace Steiner graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology

Flippin, Ark. – Brenton Butcher graduated summa cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian studies/Christian ministry, Christian theology and philosophy

Flower Mound, Texas – Tori Stratton graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in elementary education

Forney, Texas – Caleb Collins graduated Dec. 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian studies/biblical studies and Christian ministry; Haileigh West graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in communication sciences & disorders

Forrest City, Ark. – Alexis Peals graduated Dec. 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/marketing

Fort Smith, Ark. – Kayla Hill graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Science degree in computer science; Emma Shortes graduated summa cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in accounting and finance; Colton Sims graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian studies/Christian theology, philosophy and biblical studies; Matthew Ward graduated summa cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in accounting and finance

Fort Worth, Texas – Angela Cleghorn graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in interdisciplinary studies; Brittany Ratliff graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in mathematics and secondary education; Aaron Studdard graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/management; Blake Turner graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Music Education degree in instrumental education; Matt Wallak graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in kinesiology & leisure studies/pre-professional studies; Brian Williams graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/sport management

Frisco, Texas – Marina Lorenzo graduated summa cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Science degree in nutrition & dietetics; Christian Mayho graduated Dec. 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in nutrition & dietetics; John Sharp graduated Dec. 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in mass communications; Joey Zerbo graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in kinesiology & leisure studies/pre-professional studies

Gainesville, Fla. – Brandon Parramore graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/sport management and marketing

Garland, Texas – Austin Knight graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian studies/biblical studies; Madison McGee graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in elementary education

Gibsonia, Pa. – Josh Cherry graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/management

Gillett, Ark. – Darla Grantham graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian studies

Grand Prairie, Texas – Malcolm Seay graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in biology

Grapevine, Texas – Joy Biebighauser graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Music degree in worship arts

Greenbrier, Ark. – Noah Bowman graduated summa cum laude Dec. 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology; Michael Jimerson graduated May 2019 with an Associate of Arts degree in general studies

Greenville, Texas – Chelsea Wilson graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/marketing

Haskell, Ark. – Logan Clay graduated summa cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology and psychology

Hawkins, Texas – Ethan Edwards graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in history, secondary education and political science

Heath, Texas – Kenzie Henderson graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in musical theatre

Heber Springs, Ark. – Jace Holmes graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian studies

Hot Springs Village, Ark. – Allie Stanage graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian studies/biblical studies

Hot Springs, Ark. – Catie Baker graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in history; Karis Caddell graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/entrepreneurship and studio art; Joey Dean graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology; Haydn Jeffers graduated summa cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and mass communications; Elijah Kemp graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in finance; Camryn Limke graduated May 2019 with an Associate of Arts degree in general studies; Lauren Lovelady graduated summa cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in finance; Mary Catherine Mote graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian studies/Christian ministry; Jacob Smith graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/management and entrepreneurship; Austin Sowerbutts graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in finance; Morgan Taylor graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in music industry

Houston, Texas – Ricky Aguilera graduated May 2019 with an Associate of Arts degree in general studies; Aaron Clayton graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in computer science; Winston Gentry graduated Aug. 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in music; Matthew Gutierrez graduated Dec. 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/marketing; Tyler Lawrence graduated May 2019 with an Associate of Arts degree in general studies; Chris Legér Jr. graduated Aug. 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in history

Hughes, Ark. – Jon Lock graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/management

Hurst, Texas – Bryson Thomas graduated Dec. 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in kinesiology & leisure studies/fitness

Jessieville, Ark. – Allisha Bates graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in art and education; Mariah Pate graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology

Jonesboro, Ark. – Chandler Franklin graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in communications & media/integrated communications; Tyler Gahr graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in education and kinesiology & leisure studies/teaching; Dillon Groves graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in accounting and finance; Bethany Lenards graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in graphic design and mass communications; Danielle Osborne graduated summa cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian studies/biblical studies and Christian ministry

Jonesville, La. – Austin Danzy graduated Dec. 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in kinesiology & leisure studies/fitness

Katy, Texas – Abigail Fontenot graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Science degree in nutrition & dietetics

Lafayette, La. – Katelyn Myers graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in communications & media/integrated communications

Lakeland, Tenn. – Rachel Lock graduated summa cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Science degree in nutrition & dietetics

Leonard, Texas – Lizzy Kuykendall graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in elementary education

Lewisville, Texas – Jesse Robinson graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in musical theatre

Lexa, Ark. – Dondie Franklin Jr. graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in sociology

Lindale, Texas – Aaron Roots graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/management

Little Rock, Ark. – Adam Bahloul graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in accounting; Elizabeth Bennett graduated summa cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in accounting; Alex Blankenship graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in communications & media/communication studies and strategic communications; Andrew Crook graduated summa cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in mathematics; Drew DeJarnatt graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in finance; Callie Anna Dunlap graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in history; Ryan Fielder graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian studies/biblical studies; Justin Gooseberry graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Science degree in engineering physics; William Groustra graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in biology; Chris Harrison graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/marketing; Torey Harrison graduated summa cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in speech communication; Chris Hayes graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in finance; Keeley Johnson graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biophysics and chemistry; Will Johnson graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in communications & media/sports media; Bailey Kimes graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in communication sciences & disorders; Tyler Mann graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in kinesiology & leisure studies/recreation; Mahlon Martin graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/finance; Hannah Neago graduated summa cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Spanish and a Bachelor of Science degree in nutrition and dietetics; Evan Nelson graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/sport management; Katherine Van Hemert graduated summa cum laude Dec. 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in biology and kinesiology & leisure studies/fitness; Olivia Witcher graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in theatre arts and Spanish; Katie Young graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in finance and business administration/management

Longview, Texas – Rachel Webber graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Music degree in musical theatre

Lonoke, Ark. – Megan Bayer graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in mathematics and secondary education

Lonsdale, Ark. – Colton Tillery graduated Dec. 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/management and entrepreneurship

Lucas, Texas – Anna Claire Goodroe graduated summa cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Science degree in nutrition & dietetics

Magnolia, Ark. – Jessica Williamson graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in kinesiology & leisure studies/fitness and communications & media/integrated communications

Magnolia, Texas – Jacob Evans graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology

Malvern, Ark. – Bryson Clegg graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Music Education degree in instrumental education; Alivia Huell graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in sociology

Mandan, N.D. – Mercedes Mata graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in communications & media/strategic communications

Marion, Ark. – Dru Smithwick graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/finance and entrepreneurship

Maud, Texas – Tim Carr graduated Dec. 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in kinesiology & leisure studies/fitness; Cody Poe graduated Dec. 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in mass communications

Maumelle, Ark. – Jarrett Bolden graduated May 2019 with an Associate of Arts degree in general studies; Molly Boone graduated summa cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Science degree in nutrition & dietetics; Jessica Elliff Crook graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in musical theatre; Tori Elizandro graduated May 2019 with an Associate of Arts degree in Christian studies; Austin Feltner graduated May 2019 with an Associate of Arts degree in general studies; Darrell Johnson graduated May 2019 with an Associate of Arts degree in general studies; Abigail Saunders graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and sociology; Abe Young graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/management and marketing

McCaskill, Ark. – Chelsey Vermillion graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology

McKinney, Texas – Matt Courtright graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in sociology; Brandon Ho graduated Dec. 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian studies/biblical studies

Melissa, Texas – Hayley Knight graduated Dec. 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology and sociology

Memphis, Tenn. – Britney Bost graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in communication sciences & disorders and sociology; Zach Mahan graduated Dec. 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/management and marketing

Mesquite, Texas – Grace Howell graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in sociology and community and family services; Dillon Wester graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology

Monticello, Ark. – Kayla Henry graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in sociology and Christian studies/Christian missions; Halley Ryburn graduated summa cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in finance and accounting

Monument, Colo. – Will Blase graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in communications & media/multimedia journalism

Mount Clemens, Mich. – Benjamin Elliott graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in biology

Mountain Home, Ark. – Rachel Bruton graduated magna cum laude Dec. 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in communications & media/strategic communications

Mountain Pine, Ark. – Ryan Graves graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian studies/biblical studies, Christian ministry and Christian theology

Murfreesboro, Tenn. – Ransey Joiner graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian studies/biblical studies and missions and communications & media/communication studies

Nashville, Ark. – Kaylie Efird graduated Dec. 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in kinesiology & leisure studies/pre-professional studies; Kailee Hamilton graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in middle school education; Trace Hamilton graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian studies/biblical studies and ministry; Alayna Morphew graduated cum laude Dec. 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in elementary education; Kaycee Patrick graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Science degree in nutrition & dietetics; Taylor Spigner graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in communication sciences & disorders

Nashville, Tenn. – Gloria Davis graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian studies/Christian missions and Christian ministry

North Hampton, N.H. – Abby Richett graduated summa cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in elementary education

North Little Rock, Ark. – JJ Askins Jr. graduated summa cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biomedical sciences; Alec Edmonds graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in communications & media/strategic communications; Maggie Foreman graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in music and Christian studies/biblical studies; McKenzie Gosser graduated cum laude Dec. 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/marketing; Ty Kutz graduated May 2019 with an Associate of Arts degree in general studies; Josh Nicholas graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/marketing; Casey Smith graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in elementary education

North Richland Hills, Texas – Caylee Blocker graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Music Education degree in choral education; Redding Shelby graduated Aug. 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in finance

Oxford, Fla. – Noah Day graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian studies/biblical studies

Pearcy, Ark. – Amy Arego graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in sociology and a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology; Jacob Crumpler graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in kinesiology & leisure studies/pre-professional studies

Phoenix, Ariz. – Nathan Smith graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology

Pine Bluff, Ark. – Caleb Smoke graduated cum laude Dec. 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science

Piperton, Tenn. – Emily Mahan graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology

Pittsburg, Texas – Lizzy Griffin graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Music degree in musical theatre

Plano, Texas – Marrisa Butler graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in accounting and finance; Amy Lytle graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in music and theatre arts

Prattsville, Ark. – Erin Harrington graduated summa cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in communication sciences & disorders and sociology

Prosper, Texas – Kyndall Miller graduated magna cum laude Dec. 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in elementary education; Kelsey O'Brien graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology and psychology

Redfield, Ark. – Cameron Brownlee graduated summa cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biomedical sciences

Redwater, Texas – Kailee Jones graduated cum laude Dec. 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology

Richardson, Texas – Alex Jones graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian studies/biblical studies

Richmond, Ky. – Savanna Harris graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology

Rockwall, Texas – Micah Brooks graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Music degree in musical theatre; Will Jackson graduated cum laude Dec. 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/management and marketing; Beth Naylor graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology and sociology

Rogers, Ark. – Austin Connolly graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Science degree in engineering physics; Emory Gregory graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biophysics; Andrew Lockhart graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Music degree in worship arts; Taylor Lymburner graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology and psychology; Josh Neago graduated summa cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in history and secondary education; Baylee Overstreet graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology and sociology; JT Ryan graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/finance; Shannon Stribling graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in accounting and finance

Roland, Ark. – Lexie Hoggard graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in graphic design and communications & media/strategic communications

Rosston, Ark. – Ash Farrer graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and political science

Rowlett, Texas – Beaux Schmidt graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in music industry; Madeline Smith graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in elementary education

Royse City, Texas – Aaron East graduated summa cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and history; Blain Hickman graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/sport management

Russellville, Ark. – Allison Biggers graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in communication sciences & disorders; Cailey Koch graduated May 2019 with an Associate of Arts degree in general studies

Salem, Ark. – Elizabeth Anderson graduated magna cum laude Dec. 2018 with a Bachelor of Music Education degree in choral education

San Diego, Calif. – Airric Parker graduated Dec. 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in kinesiology & leisure studies/fitness

San Pedro Sula, Honduras – Abigail Brizuela graduated summa cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in finance and business administration/management

Sanger, Texas – Madison Wilson graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology

Santiago, Dominican Republic – Gabriela Rodriguez graduated Dec. 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/management

Sarasota, Fla. – Lynde Moore graduated Dec. 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in biology

Searcy, Ark. – Adam Chapman graduated Dec. 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in mass communications; Brittney Guthrie graduated May 2019 with an Associate of Arts degree in general studies

Shaoxing, China – Zhanxiu Lu graduated Dec. 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in music and studio art

Sharpsburg, Ga. – Cole Antley graduated cum laude Dec. 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in business administration/entrepreneurship

Sheridan, Ark. – Lindsey DeSoto graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology; Sykes Martin graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology; Micah Overstreet graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and Spanish

Sherwood, Ark. – Mandy Tebbetts graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology; Dakota Wilson graduated Dec. 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in history and kinesiology & leisure studies/fitness

Shreveport, La. – Garrett Logan graduated Dec. 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in kinesiology & leisure studies/recreation and sports ministry

Sioux City, Iowa – Danielle Schaal graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology

Springdale, Ark. – Sarah Ashley Bryant graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology; David Lundstrum graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in finance and business administration/management; Kord Offenbacker graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian studies/Christian ministry and biblical studies

St. Paul, Ark. – Hannah Saunders graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Music degree in musical theatre

Star City, Ark. – Lauren Adams graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in biology

Stuttgart, Ark. – Carrie Dawson graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in elementary education; Alaina Hiryak graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in graphic design

Taylor, Ark. – Kaitlyn Taylor graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and Spanish

Texarkana, Ark. – Hannah Brandon graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology; Katilyn Thomason graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology

Texarkana, Texas – Josh Altenbaumer graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in finance; Johnathon Boyce graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in interdisciplinary studies; Cross Bright graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in biology; Jonathan Rankin graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology

Troup, Texas – Callie Tosh graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in kinesiology & leisure studies/pre-professional studies

Van Buren, Ark. – Mattison Griffin graduated Dec. 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in history and public history

Vilonia, Ark. – Sidney Kelley graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology

Warren, Ark. – Hannah Weeks graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in kinesiology & leisure studies/pre-professional studies

Webbers Falls, Okla. – Tyson Hume graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in graphic design

White Hall, Ark. – Chandler Ferrell graduated summa cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in finance; Drew Holland graduated summa cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in accounting and finance; MiKayla Williams graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in mass communications

White Oak, Texas – Slaton Teague graduated cum laude Dec. 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian studies/biblical studies and Christian ministry

Whitehouse, Texas – Mollie Eldridge graduated magna cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in accounting and finance

Windsor, Mo. – Morgan Fowler graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in communication sciences & disorders

Woodlawn, Ark. – Madi Morrison graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biomedical sciences

Wylie, Texas – Sarah O'Neall graduated magna cum laude Dec. 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in nutrition and dietetics; Madi Polk graduated cum laude Dec. 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in elementary education; Paige Smith graduated Dec. 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in elementary education; John Smith graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in mass communications; Libby Villegas graduated May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in music industry

Wynne, Ark. – Laura Ward graduated cum laude May 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English

 

By Rachel Gaddis // Lead photo by Danielle Sourber. Download full size image here. Additional photos by Justin Trostle. 

May 14, 2019

 

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