By Gerard Flanagan, lead writer and communications specialist, Office of Marketing and Communications
CAMPBELLSVILLE, Ky. – It was August of 2020 and a different university for CU President Dr. Joseph Hopkins.
As the world was trying to return to some degree of normalcy in the midst of COVID-19 and debates over masking ensued, one of Hopkins’ colleagues made stickers to place on the masks that read, “For others.”
“Those two words had the power to break through the tension of discomfort, political divisions and self-interests,” Hopkins asked during his charge to the graduates at CU’s commencement ceremonies recently. “So, is it possible that we could take this lesson to a broader application of life?”
Hopkins added, “Is it possible that two words could animate the bearing of our future, our very legacy? Could these two words become a theme that empowers these graduates to change the world?”
CU held three ceremonies on Friday, Dec. 6 and three additional ceremonies on Wednesday, Dec. 11 for its Graduate Business Programs (GBP). All ceremonies were in Ransdell Chapel.
Hopkins told the graduates at all ceremonies, “Today, you stand on the precipice of world impact. It’s true! Each of you brings unique gifts, understanding and ability that can influence the world for good or not.
“Those efforts conducted in self-interest or in search of worldly gain are all too quickly forgotten. But consider the power of even the smallest actions done ‘for others.’”
Hopkins shared some of the last words spoken by renowned poet Rabindranath Tagore before his death in 1941: “I will take life’s final offering. I will take the human’s last blessing. Today my sack is empty. I have given completely whatever I had to give.”
He noted CU’s 118-year history is built “upon lives devoted to others.”
“It was the sacrifice for others that laid the foundation and preserved Campbellsville University through its humble beginnings,” Hopkins stated. “Through the years, individuals have sacrificed to build places, they have labored to sustain programs, and they have invested heart and soul in the lives of our students.”
The phrase “For Others” has become the very character of Campbellsville University and its people, according to Hopkins.
“Now the challenge is for you to apply these lessons and live for others without restraint,” Hopkins told the graduates.
Hopkins reminded the graduates that the phrase “For Others” turns simple actions into opportunities, and he reminded them they will depart from CU and go in different directions.
“Over the years, we will hear of great accomplishments,” Hopkins said. “Photos of growing families will be shared, and we will see the influence of your life in the global community. Remember that those actions and accomplishments done for others will endure the test of time.”
Even the Christmas story is about others, Hopkins pointed out, as he read from the Gospel of Luke: “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you.”
“You see, Christ came not into the world for himself, but for others, for you and for me,” Hopkins said.
Hopkins shared that the Class of 2024 has seen and understood the power of the phrase “For Others.” He added they have been the beneficiaries of kindness and compassion, and their hearts have been touched by the generosity shown to them during their time at CU.
“Campbellsville University graduates of 2024, above all else, let it be said of this class that our lives were invested in others,” Hopkins said. “And may the grace, the mercy, and power of God indwell, equip, and sustain us as we go to make our world a better place.”
Three students responded to Hopkins’ charge at Friday’s commencement ceremonies.
At the first ceremony on Friday, Allison Elizabeth Bush of Bowling Green, Ky., who received a Bachelor of Science in English, shared CU has become a home for her.
Bush reminded her classmates not to do things merely for others but because of others.
“So easily can we fall into the monotony of doing things for others as an obligation instead of as a privilege, but when we do things because of others, because we see the people around us as beautiful, inherently valuable, and crafted in God’s image just as much as we are, serving becomes the most fulfilling thing you can do.”
Bush read from 1 Peter 4:10: “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.”
“I believe that our time here at CU has fully equipped us to follow these instructions, that our gifts and talents have been cultivated and fostered by the most incredible faculty and peers, and as the signs all around campus urge us to do, I believe each of us has truly found our calling here at CU,” Bush stated.
Bush reminded her classmates of the importance of a relationship with Christ: “It’s through a relationship with our Savior that we can find a purpose, a reason for each breath we take. Only then can we fulfill our greatest potential, only then can we truly love and serve others, because God is love.”
Bush closed with a quote from Henry David Thoreau: “Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you have imagined.”
Responding to Hopkins’ charge during the second ceremony Friday, Collin Chad White of Campbellsville, Ky., who received a Bachelor of Social Work, told his classmates that living for others doesn’t mean sacrificing personal dreams or ignoring personal needs.
“On the contrary, it serves as a reminder that living a life built solely on personal achievement is incomplete,” White noted. “True fulfillment comes from giving, helping others rise and building connections that extend beyond yourself.”
White pointed to Jesus Christ’s example, saying, “Jesus didn’t seek wealth, power, or fame.”
“He chose to love the unlovable, serve the forgotten and heal the broken. He washed the feet of his disciples, fed the hungry, and laid down his life as the ultimate sacrifice for us all.”
White shared CU has equipped him and his classmates with knowledge, skills and opportunities to make an impact on the world. But, White asked, what will that impact be?
“Let your lives reflect Christ’s love in all you do,” White said. “By living for others, you fulfill God’s call for your life and make a difference that will last for eternity.”
In the final ceremony Friday, Mary Kate Cecil of Campbellsville, Ky., who received a Teacher Leader Master of Arts in Education, emphasized the importance of others as she responded to Hopkins’ charge.
Cecil shared a quote from Helen Keller: “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.”
“When we work together, not only are we united with a common goal, we have the ability to make relationships that transcend discomfort, disinterest and division,” Cecil noted.
Cecil reminded her classmates God did not create people to live and work in solitude.
“He has given us the church as a community, a body of believers united in the mission of Christ and working together to grow and spread the Gospel,” Cecil shared.
Teamwork and unity are necessary to accomplish tasks in life.
“Fellow graduates, I hope we can say that not only were our lives invested in others, but that we were never afraid to reach out a hand and work alongside others,” Cecil said. “My desire is that we are united as fellow humans and as the body of Christ to make this world a better and brighter place.”
Michaela Jarman, assistant director of alumni relations, welcomed the graduates to the Campbellsville University Alumni Association, which Jarman described as a “very proud, loyal, and diverse family.”
“Your time here has equipped you with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in your chosen fields, but perhaps more importantly, it has instilled in you a sense of purpose, character, and service that will guide you throughout your lives,” Jarman said.
Jarman urged the graduates to stay connected to CU and support their alma mater.
“Whether it’s through financial support, volunteering, or simply staying in touch, we can all play a part in ensuring that future generations of students have the same opportunities that we did,” Jarman said.
Jarman reminded the graduates that a new, exciting chapter awaits them.
“Embrace it with enthusiasm, courage, and an unwavering belief in your potential to not only navigate the challenges ahead, but to positively influence and shape the world around you,” Jarman said.
Co-valedictorians, listed with their hometowns and degrees, are as follows: Landon B. Cambron of Lebanon, Ky. (Bachelor of Science in Political Science/Economics); Morgan Mackenzi Carter of Lafayette, Tenn. (Bachelor of Science in P-5 and Special Education); Tanaya Jaylynn Cecil of Murfreesboro, Tenn. (Bachelor of Science in Sport Management); Sara Covelli of Torre Boldone, Italy (Bachelor of Science in Business Administration); Ellie Emberton Veach of Tompkinsville, Ky. (Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education/Primary-5); David Shane Messer of Pineville, Ky (Bachelor of Arts in Music Area – Theory and Composition); and Lauren Thomas of Loretto, Ky. (Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education/Primary – 5).
Ashley Danielle McCoun of Lawrenceburg, Ky. (Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education/Primary – 5) was salutatorian.
During the final ceremony on Friday, Henry Lee was presented with an Honorary Doctorate of Leadership. A native of Campbellsville, Lee served as chair of CU’s Board of Trustees from 2017 to 2023. He’s also served on the board since 2007.
Lee earned his Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Campbellsville College in 1975. Over the years, he has worked as a staff accountant, became managing partner of Wise & Lee CPA, then served as Taylor County Bank president/CEO and currently is partner at Squires and Lee CPA in Campbellsville.
Throughout his career, Lee has received several awards, including the Paul Harris Fellow, Campbellsville Taylor County Business Person of the Year, Campbellsville University’s Distinguished Alumnus and the CU Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award.
Lee has been an active member of numerous community and organizations, including the Campbellsville Rotary Club, City of Campbellsville Board of Zoning Adjustments, Campbellsville/Taylor County Industrial Foundation, American Institute of CPAs, Kentucky Society of CPAs, Taylor County Bank Board of Directors and a member of Omirron Delta Kappa.
Lee is married to Sharon Morris Lee, and they have a daughter and son-in-law, Corey and Tanner Shultz, and a grandson, Henry Shultz.
Responding to Hopkins’ charge during the GBP Commencement on Dec. 11, Umme Salma, who received a Master of Science in Information Technology Management, said, “We accept this charge with gratitude and determination, fully aware of the responsibility that comes with it.”
Salma noted that, while there will be challenges on the journey ahead, they are prepared to face those challenges with resilience.
“The lessons learned here have equipped us with not only technical expertise but also the values and mindset to overcome any obstacle,” Salma said. “We are inspired to give back to the communities that have nurtured us and to contribute to the world at large.”
Salma offered a final word of thanks to those who support her and her classmates during their academic journey.
“Finally, to everyone who believed in us and invested in our potential, we assure you that we will strive to uphold the high standard of Campbellsville University,” Salma said. “We will carry its legacy with pride and seek to make it proud through our action.”
Ayesha Saba, who received a Master of Science in Computer Science, also responded to Hopkins’ charge during the GBP commencement, saying she and her classmates “accept this charge with profound appreciation and determination.”
“Campbellsville University is known for a strong focus on personalized education and fostering a supportive learning environment,” Saba said. “It’s been a great experience with faculty who truly care about student success and provide valuable hands-on learning opportunities, which have greatly enhanced our skills in computer science.”
Saba told her classmates commencement marks the culmination of their academic journey and the beginning of a new chapter “where we are poised to make a meaningful impact on the world.”
“As international students, to those of us who have traveled far from their vibrant lands, our experiences have been enriched by a tapestry of diverse cultures and perspectives. The knowledge and skills we have gained here translate to more than academic learning.
“They embody resilience, adaptability, and the courage to step ahead. We commit to using these invaluable lessons to make a positive difference in the communities and beyond.”
Saba reminded her classmates their time at CU has prepared them for any challenges that are ahead.
“We are ready to create, innovate, and lead, and we will always carry the lessons and values we have learned here with us,” she stated.
Ashley Fox, director of alumni relations, welcomed the graduates at the GBP commencement ceremonies to the Campbellsville University Alumni Association.
“What does it mean to be a Campbellsville University alum?” Fox said. “It means you are now part of a global family, a network of individuals who share your values, your drive for excellence and your commitment to make a difference.”
Fox reminded the graduates that, as CU alum, they are ambassadors for the university.
“You carry forward its mission to lead with integrity, to serve others selflessly and to be a force for positive change in the world,” Fox said. “Being part of this alumni community is not just about where you’ve been. It’s about where you are going.
“It’s about staying connected, giving back and lifting others as you climb.”
Of the 1,077 students receiving degrees in December, 15 received associate’s degrees, 153 received bachelor’s degrees, 908 received master’s degrees, and one received a doctorate degree.
Candidates for graduation receive their degrees on the recommendation of the faculty and the approval of the Board of Trustees.
For additional commencement photos, visit Campbellsville University’s Flickr page at https://www.flickr.com/photos/campbellsvilleedu/albums.
Campbellsville University is a widely acclaimed Kentucky-based Christian university that offers over 100 programs including doctoral, master, bachelor, associate and certificate programs. The website for complete information is www.campbellsville.edu.
(Gerard Flanagan, Lead Writer and Communications Specialist – Office of Marketing and Communications)