2022 Graduation Magazine

CLASS OF 2022 LINCOLN DAILY NEWS.COM MAY / JUNE 2022 Page 73 Rev. Dr. Glenn Shelton shares the Three ‘C’s of life S aturday, May 7th was the 155th Commencement for Lincoln College. Despite it being the final commencement of the multi-century-old college, it was a joyous day that focused on the good work of the students receiving diplomas. Lincoln College opened 157 years ago as a faith based university. The institution offered four-year degrees and was officially registered as a university. During hard times, the college shifted to offering two-year certificates for students transferring to other locations to finish their four-year degrees. The institution then became known as a ‘college,’ but maintained its university status. To keep it’s university status intact the college awarded honorary doctorate degrees to citizens handpicked by the Lincoln College Board of Trustees, and even after returning to four-year degrees continued that practice. This year, in addition to than 200 diplomas to the class of 2022, two honorary doctorates were awarded to Springfield’s Michael Phelon and to Lincoln’s own beloved Reverend Glenn Shelton. The day began with a large audience made up of family and friends of graduates and other members of the community. Lincoln College student Shannon Cabit opened the ceremony playing the Pomp and Circumstance as the Class of 2022 assembled on the floor of the gymnasium in Lincoln Center. Faculty followed members of the board of trustees and special guests, with College Vice President Dr. Donna Bradley and President Dr. David Gerlach last to enter the stage. Associate Professor of Mathematics Jan Bowers convened the assembly and called on LC Music Major Creighton Monroe to sing the National Anthem. 155th Commencement a joyous celebration Lincoln College’s Continue 8