Southwest Baptist University awarded 111 undergraduate degrees and 60 graduate degrees
during its winter commencement ceremony, held at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December
13, in the Jane and Ken Meyer Wellness and Sports Center on the Bolivar campus.
“Commencement is the most important academic event for the university,” said SBU President Dr. Rick Melson. “At SBU, we are a Christ-centered, caring academic community preparing students to become servant leaders in a global society. Commencement marks the beginning of our students living out what they have learned through a transformational, holistic education.”
Dr. Jonathon Woodyard, SBU Vice President of Student Life, delivered the commencement address. Woodyard brings a wealth of experience in academia and ministry, having previously served as the Dean of Admissions and Assistant Professor of Theology and History at Bethlehem College and Seminary in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He also served as an adjunct professor at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Kansas City, Missouri. Prior to his academic career, Woodyard was the founding pastor of Northfield Community Church, a North American Mission Board church plant in Northfield, Minnesota. A U.S. Army veteran with overseas service, including a tour in Iraq, Woodyard continues to serve as a chaplain in the United States Army Reserve.
The ceremony included performances by graduate musician Meagan Moore and congregational hymns led by graduate Joshua Robertson, who also guided the audience in singing the Alma Mater.