Anderson University to Host In-Person Commencement May 8
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Anderson, Ind. — Anderson University will hold its annual Commencement ceremony at 2 p.m. May 8 in Kardatzke Wellness Center (KWC). After delaying last year’s modified ceremony until October, this year’s ceremony will combine aspects of Baccalaureate and Commencement into one in-person celebration. A livestream of the ceremony can also be viewed through Boxcast.
“I’m excited for our seniors and their families to participate in Commencement in person this year — in May, no less,” said Anderson University President John S. Pistole, since last year’s ceremony was pushed to October. “These students have persevered through uncharted waters and we celebrate with them as they head out into the world to share the love of Christ wherever they go.”
Rev. Dr. Rodney K. Stafford will deliver the keynote speech at this year’s ceremony. Stafford is the senior pastor of Fairfax Community Church, a member of the AU Board of Trustees, and holds two degrees from AU. Stafford received his undergraduate degree from Anderson University and his Master of Divinity and Doctor of Ministry degrees from Anderson University School of Theology.
Rev. Geremy Dixon will serve as the Baccalaureate speaker and has served as an associate, and now lead pastor, for over 18 years at Center of Hope LA in Inglewood, California. Articulate, passionate, and driven, Dixon is one of the emerging voices proclaiming God’s desire to establish His Kingdom in the marketplace.
“It is important to mark certain moments in one’s life,” said Anderson University Provost Marie Morris. “Completing a college degree is one of those moments. And, it is one to be celebrated and shared with family, friends, peers, and the campus community. I’m delighted that we will be able to come together to celebrate the impressive achievements of our graduates. Anderson University graduates have demonstrated time and again how impactful they are in their communities and around the globe. We expect no less from the class of 2021.”
Due to COVID-19 guidelines, graduates were permitted to invite four guests to join the ceremony in person. Seating in the KWC will be arranged to accommodate social distancing, and masks will be required.
A COVID-19 test prior to the ceremony is recommended for all those attending to help ensure the health and safety of everyone in attendance.
Anderson University is on a mission to educate students for lives of faith and service, offering more than 60 undergraduate majors, 30 three-year degrees, 20 NCAA Division III intercollegiate sports, alongside adult and graduate programs. The private, liberal arts institution is fully accredited and recognized among top colleges for its business, computer science, cybersecurity, dance, engineering, nursing, and teacher education programs. Anderson University was established in 1917 in Anderson, Indiana, by the Church of God.