CCU's Commencement Ceremony Recognizes over 700 New Alumni
On Saturday, May 12, over 3,000 guests celebrated with Colorado Christian University's class of 2012 at the annual commencement ceremony. Over 700 graduates comprise the class, from both the College of Adult and Graduate Studies and the College of Undergraduate Studies. The ceremony, held at Cherry Hills Community Church in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, featured former Ambassador and Secretary of Veterans Affairs R. James Nicholson as speaker.
Nicholson exhorted students and guests alike: "When the going gets tough -- and it will get tough -- pray." His own reliance on God was evident, as he recounted living on a tenant farm in Iowa as a child, to eventually becoming ambassador to the Vatican. Nicholson encouraged graduates to defend religious liberties and human rights, two causes he has worked to protect. The former ambassador received an honorary Doctor of Humanities degree for his lifetime of work. He was joined by fellow recipient Dr. Kent Hutcheson, honored for his work with inner-city youth.
The day, however, belonged to the graduates. Upon the conferring of their degrees, the collective cheer was overwhelming and a smattering of hats flew in the air. Christi Kirchner, Director of Alumni Relations -- and herself an MBA graduate -- welcomed the graduates into the Alumni Association: "You now join a family of more than 15,000 strong believers who are following God's calling for their lives," she said. "You have the opportunity and responsibility to apply what you have learned in your work, family, and churches. Remember that you leave here today as a representative for God, for Colorado Christian University, for your classmates, and for those who have encouraged and challenged you along the way."