Methodist University celebrates 50th winter commencement with more than 120 graduates

Staff reports
·2 min read
A large gathering of family, friends and loved ones watch Methodist University’s 50th Winter Commencement at the Crown Coliseum on Saturday, Dec. 10, 2022.
A large gathering of family, friends and loved ones watch Methodist University’s 50th Winter Commencement at the Crown Coliseum on Saturday, Dec. 10, 2022.

Methodist University celebrated the school's 50th annual winter commencement ceremony Saturday at the Crown Coliseum.

More than 120 students received their diplomas on stage, including 15 who became the first graduates of the university's online degree programs, according to a news release from the school.

In his message to graduates, President Stanley T. Wearden noted the health and financial challenges students have faced in recent years.

Methodist University President Stanley T. Wearden welcomes graduates and the crowd to MU’s Winter Commencement on Saturday, Dec. 10, 2022.
Methodist University President Stanley T. Wearden welcomes graduates and the crowd to MU’s Winter Commencement on Saturday, Dec. 10, 2022.

“You didn't let any of the pressures and stressors of our current time beat you. You found ways to keep going and to get the most of your time at Methodist University. You have shown that you are strong, resilient, creative and caring,” Wearden said. “Graduates, I’m proud of you because in the face of all we have experienced, you have found the courage to complete your MU degrees in dignity and style. I’m proud of you because you understood the power and importance of working together as one community. We have, indeed, moved forward together.”

Wearden introduced commencement speaker John “Mac” Healy, the Methodist University Board of Trustees’ immediate past chair. Healy is the president of Healy Wholesale and is well known for his contributions to the Fayetteville and Methodist University communities, according to the release.

John “Mac” Healy, second from left, the Methodist University Board of Trustees’ immediate past chair, is presented with an honorary Doctorate of Humanities by Provost Dr. Suzanne Blum Malley, left, Board of Trustees Chair Dr. Rakesh Gupta, second from right, and President Stanley T. Wearden, right, on Saturday, Dec. 10, 2022.
John “Mac” Healy, second from left, the Methodist University Board of Trustees’ immediate past chair, is presented with an honorary Doctorate of Humanities by Provost Dr. Suzanne Blum Malley, left, Board of Trustees Chair Dr. Rakesh Gupta, second from right, and President Stanley T. Wearden, right, on Saturday, Dec. 10, 2022.

“I can’t think of any greater example of overcoming obstacles than you, the graduates. This world threw everything at you and you never quit,” Healy said. “Our world needs you more than ever right now. Every day, you can choose the person you want to be. I challenge you to make a positive impact on everyone you encounter, hold an attitude of gratitude, and to continue making Methodist University proud.”

Wearden presented Healy with an honorary Doctorate of Humanities degree for his keen vision in business and his devotion to education, community and family, the release said.

JaCarious Coleman, who graduated with a Bachelor of Science in physical education and health education, is hooded by his mother on the graduation stage on Saturday, Dec. 10, 2022.
JaCarious Coleman, who graduated with a Bachelor of Science in physical education and health education, is hooded by his mother on the graduation stage on Saturday, Dec. 10, 2022.

The Distinguished Graduate Award went to Jillian Drinkard, a Business Administration major with a concentration in PGA management. Drinkard had one of the top-five GPAs in the class, was named an Academic All-American multiple times, earned DIII Women’s Golf All-American honors multiple times, and was a member of MU’s DIII women’s golf national championship team in 2021, according to the release.

“I want to thank all the Methodist University staff and faculty for making today possible,” said Drinkard. “My time in the classroom and on the golf course taught me that not every day is going to be your best day, to not focus on the last shot but the next one, and that life isn’t about awards or statistics. Class of 2022, stay true to yourself and listen to your heart. We were put on this Earth to make a difference around us. We’re not promised tomorrow so continue to be grateful for the opportunity to chase your dream.”

Distinguished graduate Jillian Drinkard, who received her Bachelor of Science in business administration, delivers a message to her fellow graduates on Saturday, Dec. 10, 2022.
Distinguished graduate Jillian Drinkard, who received her Bachelor of Science in business administration, delivers a message to her fellow graduates on Saturday, Dec. 10, 2022.

This article originally appeared on The Fayetteville Observer: Methodist University holds 50th winter commencement in Fayetteville