Ashford University’s 2016 Fall Commencement ceremony took place on October 2 in San Diego. Sentinel’s Darryl Garland was able to join more than 1,300 attendees of the approximately 7,500 graduates earning Associate’s, Bachelor’s, and Master’s degrees in fields from business to behavioral science.
The graduates, in traditional cap-and-gown regalia, walked four-across into the Viejas Arena to a string ensemble playing “Pomp and Circumstance” and to the cheers of family and friends. After a formal opening of the ceremony, graduation speaker Dr. Richard Pattenaude charged the graduates to use their education as a force for change:
“No matter your calling, your education places upon you the responsibility to either build or tear down walls and to know when to do each. And when we tear down a wall, we build a bridge in its place. That is our responsibility. It is the precious gift education puts upon us.”
The deans of each college then presented diplomas to their school’s graduates. Some recipients celebrated with a touchdown dance, some “dabbed,” while other graduates hurried off stage. “One thing that really inspired me about the ceremony,” said Garland, “was the diversity of the graduates. Ashford’s online programs make higher education accessible to people of so many backgrounds with such rich stories. I am thankful National Life has provided this opportunity.”
Other National Life employees who have earned degrees through the company’s partnership with Ashford University include Bethany Costello, Robin Dowling, Paula Evans, Peter McKenney, Jessica Myers, Stephani Myers, Minh Pham, and Laura Plourde.
To learn more about how you can take advantage of the expenses-paid Leadership Grant program, contact Jen Cinadr.
