A Day To Remember: Commencement 2023
Walking into Overlake Christian Church, you could feel the excitement. Proud parents, grandparents, and friends made their way into the auditorium to cheer for their loved one on a job well done. The hard work for these graduates was over. And the celebration was just beginning.
The festivities started with a Scripture reading and worship. Students and guests stood in unison to sing a song that meant even more on this momentous day: “Great Is Thy Faithfulness.” A student quartet continued the celebration with the song “Grace.”
Now it was time for the speakers and the honors ceremony.
President Castleberry spoke first by welcoming all and asking the question: The mind is a kingdom, but who will rule it? The answer quickly followed: Yield the mind to God’s rule.
Next, Grace Seyoum gave the student address. She spoke with passion about all who had encouraged her throughout her academic journey.
Craig and April Chapman were recognized with the President’s Award for their significant contributions to NU and the community.
John Jordan and Dr. Jim Heugel received awards for their service to NU—John for his excellent work as CEO and Dr. Heugel for his transformative 18 years as provost. When Dr. Heugel took his award, he turned to see the faculty and students standing to honor him. Well done, good and faithful servants!
Rev. Dr. Donna Barrett, general secretary for the General Council of the Assemblies of God, was called to the stage to receive her honorary doctorate degree. Taking her seat, she didn’t rest for long. Dr. Barrett returned to center stage to give the 2023 commencement address. She urged graduates to remember five simple words that Paul penned in Ephesians 4: I beg you to lead. Dr. Barrett reminded us that the world needs Christians who are willing to lead when the moment calls for it. Sometimes the moment is large. Other times, it’s small. But all moments of leadership require the Holy Spirit’s discernment, wisdom, and courage to step forward and lead.
Congratulations to these leaders and Kingdom builders: Northwest University’s Class of 2023!