Mount Vernon Nazarene University (MVNU) recently held its 64th annual commencement ceremonies in the R.R. Hodges Chapel/Auditorium, celebrating the achievements of its 456 graduates. The commencement address was delivered by the Rev. Andrew J. Monnin.
According to an MVNU press release, Rev. Monnin emphasized divine guidance in his speech: "God has a plan for you and our prayer for this class is that you will become a holy movement that is so needed where God is sending us now in our world, in our cities, and in our nation. God has a purpose for your life. It’s not about you," he said. "We don’t know where you’ll end up, we don’t know what you’ll be doing in five, 10, 15 or even 20 years from now, but we do know this — God has plans for you to change the world wherever you land."
Monnin, who serves as the Northwestern Ohio District Superintendent, encouraged both traditional graduates and those from the School of Graduate and Professional Studies to live their lives according to God's plan and embrace life's challenges.
The Service Above Self award was given to Social Work and Intercultural Studies major Brooklyn Black and Religion major Zach Bellenger, according to another MVNU press release. Black was recognized for her dedication to serving others through various roles on campus and abroad while Bellenger was lauded for his leadership roles on campus.
In addition to student awards, Biology Professor Carrie Beal received the 2023-24 Excellence in Teaching Award as per an MVNU press release. The award recognizes faculty members who have shown exceptional dedication both inside and outside the classroom.
Honorary degrees were also conferred during the ceremony. The Rev. J. Kevin Dennis, District Superintendent of West Virginia North, received an honorary Doctor of Divinity degree according to an MVNU press release.
The graduating class represented not only the United States and Puerto Rico, but also the countries of Bermuda, Costa Rica, Lithuania, and Trinidad and Tobago.
