On a bright, beautiful, Saturday morning, on August 15, Bagpiper James Hopkins led Hannibal-LaGrange University’s 2020 graduating class back through the Walk of Honor, the same one they walked at the beginning of their freshman year, and to their seats at HLGU’s commencement ceremony. It was there that each graduate walked the stage in their ceremonial regalia to shake the hand of HLGU President Anthony Allen and receive their diploma.
“Life is punctuated with events like these today to mark the transition of life and the accomplishments of the past as well as looking forward to what the future may hold. So today we celebrate together this monumental accomplishment,” said Dr. Allen. “This a great class. Each year I am amazed at their accomplishments, their abilities, and the amazing potential they have.”
This year’s commencement address was given by John R. (Jay) Ashcroft, Missouri’s 40th Secretary of State. Ashcroft was elected in 2016, and brings a unique perspective to office through his experience as an attorney, engineer, and educator.
Secretary Ashcroft’s address urged the graduates to love God and to love others with a heart that is set apart from the world, in character and obedience to the Lord.
“I want to implore you that this is your time to make a difference. Our world is crying out for men and women of character, honesty, and dependability, who understand absolute truth, understand this life is temporary, the eternal is of preeminent importance, and frankly that life isn’t about what you achieve. It’s about your obedience to God and what you do for others.”
Secretary Ashcroft added, “I want to thank the graduates for a job well done. For persevering. For seeking, not only knowledge, which you can seek in a lot of places, but for understanding that wisdom is more important than knowledge, and you have sought both at an institution like Hannibal-LaGrange University.”
Following the address, Dr. Larinee Dennis, vice president for academic administration, presented the 2020 graduating class.
“This class has distinguished itself with many notable accomplishments and achievements. It has been a privilege to watch their development,” said Dr. Dennis.
Following the presentation of the graduates, Lilianna Erskine and Tyler Shipley, HLGU’s Who’s Who Among Seniors, led their fellow graduates in the graduate pledge and in giving a standing ovation to thank their family and friends for their support.
Also, at commencement, the 2020 Parkway Distinguished Professor Award was presented to Dr. Steven Voss. This award is given by Parkway Baptist Church in St. Louis, Missouri and the selection of its recipient is based on outstanding professional and personal contributions to Christian education. This is HLGU’s highest faculty award and the 31st year this award has been presented.
Dr. Voss joined the HLGU faculty in 2009. He serves as the chair of the behavioral sciences department and an associate professor of psychology. Dr. Voss was noted as modeling scholarship for his students, teaching from a Christian worldview, and diligently providing many real-world experiences for his students. Dr. Voss earned a Ph.D. from the New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. He also holds master’s degrees in from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and New Mexico Highland University, as well as a Bachelor of Arts from Buena Vista College.
Additionally, Dr. Voss is a practicing clinician and has served as a contributor in various journals and publications. He’s been a presenter at several conferences and led multiple educational trips abroad. Dr. Voss is also a member of Cornerstone Baptist Church in Hannibal. He and his wife Kendra reside in Hannibal and have four grown children.
The Immanuel Staff Member of the Year Award was also presented at commencement to Mrs. Stephanie Reece. The staff member of the year has been awarded since 2010. This award is meant to honor individuals who contribute to the success and accomplishment of Hannibal-LaGrange University. The selection process includes nominations by fellow staff members with a vote of affirmation by the administration.
Stephanie has worked for Hannibal-LaGrange University for seven years. She currently holds the title of facilities coordinator and business operations manager, and is also the administrative assistant for the president. Stephanie is a 1991 HLGU alum and holds the bachelor of science degree in elementary education. Stephane lives in Hannibal with her husband Shannon, also an HLGU alum, and together they have two children, Nathan and Morgan, who have both attended HLGU.
Stephanie and her family served as missionaries in Zambia, Africa for three years and she and her husband are members of Calvary Baptist Church in Hannibal. Stephanie has a reputation at HLGU for being encouraging, selfless, hardworking, and one with a servants-heart, who goes above and beyond what’s expected of her.
To watch HLGU’s 2020 commencement ceremony, visit the HLGU Facebook page. For more information HLGU’s graduation ceremony, visit hlg.edu/news-events/commencement/ or contact Julie Andresen at 573-629-3130, or via email at jandresen@hlg.edu.