ACU Commencement Program December 2021 by Abilene Christian University

Commencement DECEMBER 10, 2021

Expo Center of Taylor County Abilene, Texas

Contents

Order of Ceremony ........................................................................................................... 2

Candidates for Graduate Degrees ............................................................................... 4

Candidates for Undergraduate Degrees .................................................................. 13

Honors and Awards ....................................................................................................... 22

The Academic Hood ...................................................................................................... 24

A Note From ACU’s Alumni Association ................................................................... 25

“Oh, Dear Christian College” ...................................................................... Back Cover

NOTE TO AUDIENCE Sign language interpretation is available in a reserved seating section in the front rows of section X, on the east side of the coliseum. Photographs for university publicity will be taken at this event. 1

Order of Ceremony

Processional ............................................ “Pomp and Circumstance” by Sir Edward Elgar Audience will please remain seated.

Welcome ....................................................................................................... Dr. Robert Rhodes

Provost

Call to Worship: “To God Be the Glory” ...................................................... Dr. Jeff Goolsby Assistant Professor, Music

Scripture Reading ..................................................................................... Dr. Ken Cukrowski Dean, College of Biblical Studies

Invocation ......................................................................................... Dr. Jennifer Shewmaker Dean, College of Education and Human Services

Introduction to Commencement ............................................................ Dr. Robert Rhodes Master of Ceremonies ................................................................................. Dr. Phil Schubert President

A Charge to the Class of 2021 ............................................................................. Rachel Riley Associate Professor, Psychology

Presentation of Doctoral and Master’s Degree Candidates ................. Dr. Jessica Smith Associate Provost, Curriculum and Assessment

Conferring of Doctoral and Master’s Degrees ....................................... Dr. Phil Schubert Introduction of Doctoral and Master’s Degree Graduates .................... Dr. Ron Morgan Professor, History and Global Studies

Presentation of Diplomas ................................................................................ April Anthony Chair, Board of Trustees

Presentation of Bachelor’s Degree Candidates .................................... Dr. Greg Straughn Dean, College of Arts and Sciences

Dr. Ken Cukrowski Dr. Brad Crisp

Dean, College of Business Administration

Dr. Jennifer Shewmaker Dr. Nannette Glenn

Dean, College of Graduate and Professional Studies

Dr. Marcia Straughn Dean, School of Nursing

Conferring of Bachelor’s Degrees and Hooding of Graduates ............ Dr. Phil Schubert Dr. Robert Rhodes Introduction of Bachelor’s Degree Graduates .......................................... Dr. Ron Morgan Presentation of Diplomas ................................................................................ April Anthony Presentation of Awards and Honors ........................................................ Dr. Phil Schubert Dr. Robert Rhodes “Oh, Dear Christian College” ........................................................................ Dr. Jeff Goolsby Benediction ......................................................................................................... Dr. Brad Crisp “The Lord Bless You and Keep You” ............................................................. Dr. Jeff Goolsby Recessional ......................................................... “Crown Imperial” by Sir William Walton Audience will please remain seated.

Candidates for Graduate Degrees

Doctor of Education Feon Maria Battiste (Ed.D., Organizational Leadership) ........ Canal Winchester, Ohio Dissertation: African American Teachers’ Experiences of Becoming a Teacher in Ohio: A Case Study Chair: Dr. Libi Shen

† Darla Deneen Branda (Ed.D., Organizational Leadership) ............... Fulton, Missouri Dissertation: Exploring the Challenges and Barriers of Professional Practice Experience in Health Information Management Education Chair: Dr. Irma Harper

Ashley L. Brittain (Ed.D., Organizational Leadership) ................. Hilltop Lakes, Texas Dissertation: Perceptions of Classroom Management Coaching at District A ISD Chair: Dr. Kyle Butler

Kelly Leigh Coke (Ed.D., Organizational Leadership) .......................... Cookville, Texas Dissertation: Understanding the Barriers East Texas Community College Students Experience in Transferring to a Regional University Chair: Dr. Irma Harper

Bradley Cabral Cook (Ed.D., Organizational Leadership) .................................... Newbury Park, California Dissertation: Interventions for Ninth-Grade Middle-Achieving Students Chair: Dr. Christie Bledsoe

Zach Crawford (Ed.D., Organizational Leadership) .............................. Garrison, Texas Dissertation: Retention Factors of Rural East Texas Superintendents Chair: Dr. John Kellmayer

Tommy Douglas Duncan II (Ed.D., Organizational Leadership) .......... Lubbock, Texas Dissertation: Educator and Administrator Perceptions of Sheltered Instructions in STEM Courses Chair: Dr. Scott Bailey

Mary E. Ferguson (Ed.D., Organizational Leadership) .......................... Lubbock, Texas Dissertation: Transformational Leadership and Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs): A Case Study of Primary Teachers at an Urban School in Bogotá, Columbia Chair: Dr. Amy Barrios

† Estelle Lauren Garza (Ed.D., Organizational Leadership) ...................... Dallas, Texas Dissertation: The Impact of Leadership and Institutional Priorities on Degree Completion of Community College Students Chair: Dr. Lisa Hobson

Glenda Ann Gill (Ed.D., Organizational Leadership) .................................. Aiea, Hawaii Dissertation: An Examination of Female Officers’ Career Advancement in the U.S. Military Chair: Dr. Scott Self

Benjamin Anthony Griffin (Ed.D., Organizational Leadership) ............................................... Greenacres, Florida Dissertation: Challenges of Pastoral Leaders: Maintaining Resilience While Contemplating Transitioning Out of Ministry Chair: Dr. Bradley Thompson

Edward Theodore Knight (Ed.D., Organizational Leadership) ........................................... Castle Rock, Colorado Dissertation: Student Perceptions of the Effects of the Modern Educational Reform Movement on the Concept of the Whole Child Chair: Dr. Andrew Lumpe

Latisha Latoya Marion (Ed.D., Organizational Leadership) ................... Killeen, Texas Dissertation: Black Women’s Perceptions of the Experiences, Challenges, and Barriers Leading to Senior-Level Leadership Positions in Higher Education Chair: Dr. Linda Wilson-Jones

† Cindy Lee McGuire (Ed.D., Organizational Leadership) ........... Columbia, Louisiana Dissertation: Preparing Future Healthcare Professionals: The Relationship Between Resilience, Emotional Intelligence, and Age Chair: Dr. Jeffry White

† Member of Alpha Chi National Honor Society

Tiniesha La’Shae Menete (Ed.D., Organizational Leadership) ................. Irving, Texas Dissertation: A Qualitative Study of Department Chairs’ Perceptions Regarding Job Role Transition in Christian Colleges Chair: Dr. Robert Haussmann

June Fendetta Mighty (Ed.D., Organizational Leadership) ..................................... Santa Barbara, California Dissertation: Servant Leadership and Conflict Adaptivity in Local Government Leaders Chair: Dr. Stuart Allen

Pervaiz Masih Mohabbat (Ed.D., Organizational Leadership) ...... Soledad, California Dissertation: Hazy Team Composition Processes: Shared Team Leadership, a Strategy to Team Excellence in Higher Education Chair: Dr. Richard Dool

† Manoj Thekkadathu Oommen (Ed.D., Organizational Leadership) .................................... New Hyde Park, New York Dissertation: Exploring the Experiences and Effectiveness of Student Loan Entrance Counseling Chair: Dr. Tara Horner

Kimberly Dionne Parrott (Ed.D., Organizational Leadership) .......... Richmond, Texas Dissertation: Exploration of Strategies of Teacher Leaders for Responding to Students Experiencing Trauma Framed in CASEL’s Social and Emotional Learning Theory Chair: Dr. Sandra Harris

Michael L. Patterson (Ed.D., Organizational Leadership) ....... Lithia Springs, Georgia Dissertation: Church and Public School Partnerships Creating Educational Equity Chair: Dr. Wade Fish

Jonathan Anthony Pérez (Ed.D., Organizational Leadership) .............. Saginaw, Texas Dissertation: Testimonios of Chicano Leadership in Texas Community Colleges Chair: Dr. Simone Elias

† Stephanie Diana Perkins (Ed.D., Organizational Leadership) .............. Austin, Texas Dissertation: Narratives of First-Generation Community College Students in Central Texas: Restorying the Path to Success in Higher Education Chair: Dr. Antonina Lukenchuk

Melissa Perrianne Phelan (Ed.D., Organizational Leadership) ......... Lampasas, Texas Dissertation: An Exploration of Teachers’ Perceptions and Experiences Serving Students Facing Parental Incarceration in a Rural Setting Chair: Dr. Jennifer Butcher

Amelia Reeves (Ed.D., Organizational Leadership) ....................... Breckenridge, Texas Dissertation: Rural School District Strategies to Increase College, Career, and Military Readiness Chair: Dr. Irma Harper

Veronica Rios (Ed.D., Organizational Leadership) ........................ Anaheim, California Dissertation: Experiences That Support Persistence and Retention of Latinx First-Generation College Students (FGCS) at Community Colleges Chair: Dr. Sandra Harris

Ruth Ellen Schackmann (Ed.D., Organizational Leadership) .......... Carrollton, Texas Dissertation: A Study of the Association of Teacher Efficacy and Students’ Achievement in a North Texas School District Chair: Dr. John Kellmayer

† Christie Luanne Smith (Ed.D., Organizational Leadership) ...... Edmond, Oklahoma Dissertation: Online Course Communication and International Student Academic Performance Chair: Dr. Scott Self

Rita Gale Sullivan (Ed.D., Organizational Leadership) ..................... Benton, Louisiana Dissertation: Traditional and Alternative Certification Programs and Their Effect on Elementary School Teachers’ Efficacy Beliefs in Title I and Non-Title I Schools Chair: Dr. Emiel Owens

Angelita O. Vasquez (Ed.D., Organizational Leadership) ..................... Gonzales, Texas Dissertation: ¿Dónde Están? Exploring the Identification Process for Gifted English Language Learners Chair: Dr. Jennifer Butcher

† Member of Alpha Chi National Honor Society

Tiffany Laine Weiss (Ed.D., Organizational Leadership) .......................... Belton, Texas Dissertation: School Leaders and Exclusionary Practices: A Study of Discretionary DAEP Placements for Minority Special Education Students Chair: Dr. Amy Barrios

† Nicole Charone West (Ed.D., Organizational Leadership) ................ Pearland, Texas Dissertation: An Evaluation of Programs and Leadership Practices for Effective Dropout Prevention Chair: Dr. Lisa Hobson

William Jeremiah Womack (Ed.D., Organizational Leadership) ................................................. Hixson, Tennessee Dissertation: Portraits of Visionary Leaders: Technology Directors’ Leadership Characteristics and Experiences in K-12 Independent Schools During the COVID-19 Pandemic Chair: Dr. Simone Elias

LeAndrian Wright (Ed.D., Organizational Leadership) ..................... Lewisville, Texas Dissertation: Exploring Online Mental Health Services: A Qualitative Study for First-Year College Students Chair: Dr. Jackie Halstead

Doctor of Ministry Kent Allen Ellett (D.Min.) ................................................................. Indianapolis, Indiana Thesis: Theological Practices for Sustaining Community Renewal at Speedway Church of Christ Chair: Dr. Carson Reed

Doctor of Nursing Practice Nancy Marie Abbene (D.N.P.) ......................................................... Centerport, New York Project: Reducing Parental Stress in Neonatal and Pediatric Intensive Care Units Chair: Dr. Lynx McClellan

Joni Renee Beckham (D.N.P.) .................................................................... Henrietta, Texas Project: Nursing Perceptions for Utilizing Essential Oil Application in Labor and the Effect of Targeted Education Chair: Dr. Patricia Sunderhaus

Susie Elizabeth Birden Brown (D.N.P.) ............................................... Newark, California Project: School Nursing Practice and Experiences During School Closures Chair: Dr. Linda Gibson

Shecarra Cook (D.N.P.) ....................................................................... Mansfield, Louisiana Project: The Effect of Postpartum Depression Screening Education for Postpartum Nurses Chair: Dr. Larry Santiago

Maria DeLurdes DeHoyos (D.N.P.) ............................................................... Helotes, Texas Project: STD Prevention: An Educational Intervention for Exotic Dancers Chair: Dr. Faisal Aboul-Enein

Angelia R. Drake (D.N.P.) ................................................................................. Frisco, Texas Project: An Evaluation of Cancer Nurse Providers’ Implementation of the 2018 Commission on Cancer Survivorship Care Plan Requirement Chair: Dr. Linda Gibson

† Daniyele L. Feaster (D.N.P.) .................................................... Gastonia, North Carolina Project: Education of Nurses on the Use of the INTERACT Tool Chair: Dr. Tonya Sawyer-McGee

† Hunter William Halford (D.N.P.) ............................................................. Lubbock, Texas Project: Reducing the Potential for Physical Harm in Student Nurses Caring for Clients Who Are Under the Influence Chair: Dr. Molly Kuhle

Rebecca G. Halford (D.N.P.) ......................................................................... Lubbock, Texas Project: Improving Sexually Transmitted Infection Knowledge In Community College Students: A Path to Prevention Chair: Dr. Molly Kuhle

† Member of Alpha Chi National Honor Society

Evangella Harville (D.N.P.) .......................................................... Williamsville, New York Project: Opioid Use Disorder: A Crisis of Concern Chair: Dr. Faisal Aboul-Enein

† Lisa Ling (D.N.P.) ......................................................................................... Yuma, Arizona Project: Food Addiction and Obesity Chair: Dr. Ugochi Irikannu

Keisha Danielle McKinsey (D.N.P.) ..................................................... Waxahachie, Texas Project: Assessing the Perceptions and Attitudes of Burnout Syndrome in Nurse Practitioners in Primary Care Settings Chair: Dr. Tonja Hartjes

Jacquelyn M. Paylor (D.N.P.) ........................................................... Catonsville, Maryland Project: The Use of Medical Marijuana for the Relief of Chronic Pain Chair: Dr. Lynx McClellan

Heather D. Ray (D.N.P.) ................................................................................. Abilene, Texas Project: Impact of Leader Rounds on Perceptions of the Culture of Safety Chair: Dr. Catherine Garner

† Karen Loraine Rowland (D.N.P.) ...................................................... Lake Jackson, Texas Project: Policy Development: Stress Management and Critical Incident Debriefing Chair: Dr. Sandra Cleveland

Jannelle Violet Sanchez (D.N.P.) ......................................................... Whittier, California Project: Implementing Mindfulness Meditation to Reduce Nurse Burnout Chair: Dr. Lawrence Santiago

Ruth Ann Gipe Slayton (D.N.P.) .......................................................... Trenton, Tennessee Project: Developing Outpatient, Clinic-Based Education for Patients With Diabetes and Prediabetes Chair: Dr. Molly Kuhle

Sarah Jean Templeton (D.N.P.) ......................................................... Fullerton, California Project: An Evaluation of an Integrated Multidisciplinary Early Identification and Triage of College Students at Risk for Anxiety and Depression Chair: Dr. Molly Kuhle

Aquilina Kerubo Thompson (D.N.P.) .................................................. San Antonio, Texas Project: Addressing the Psychosocial State of High-Risk Individuals Undergoing Hereditary Cancer Screening by Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) in the Community Oncology Setting Chair: Dr. Faisal Aboul-Enein

† Member of Alpha Chi National Honor Society

COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCES English Daniel Justin Garcia (M.A., English) ................................................... San Antonio, Texas † Kylie Rebecca Kincaid (M.A., English) ................................................. Mansfield, Texas Psychology † Kamryn Taylor Pursley (M.S., Counseling Psychology) ........................ Merkel, Texas † Deanna Lynn Tuttle (M.S., Counseling Psychology) ......... Sioux Falls, South Dakota

COLLEGE OF BIBLICAL STUDIES Graduate School of Theology Brian Percy Anderson (M.Div.) ..................................................................... DeSoto, Texas John Brinkley Beene (M.Div.) ............................................................................. Katy, Texas Wellington Tinashe Buzuzi (M.A.C.M.) ................................... Chitungwiza, Zimbabwe † Saul Francisco Delgado (M.A.C.M.) ........................................................... Spring, Texas Samuel Burton Jones (M.A., Global Service) ................................ St. Pete Beach, Florida Thesis: The Invisible Language: Unintentional Patronage and Missions Practice in Contemporary Thailand Chair: Dr. Christopher Flanders

Justice Nherera (M.A.C.M.) ................................................................. Manzini, Swaziland Jack Kobina Asare Oduro (M.A.C.M.) ........................................................ Tarkwa, Ghana Elery Seth Shaver (M.Div.) ............................................................................ Abilene, Texas Kerri Dandurand Smilie (M.Div.) ........................................ Mooresville, North Carolina Brian Tracey (M.A.C.M.) ............................................................... Silver Spring, Maryland † Angela Mae Watson (M.Div.) ....................................................................... Clifton, Texas Kenneth Wayne Wright III (M.A., Global Service) ..................... New Iberia, Louisiana

COLLEGE OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION Accounting Julia Evelyn Bruce (M.Acc.) .................................................................. San Antonio, Texas † William Dee Clevenger (M.Acc.) ......................................................... Sunnyvale, Texas Hayden David Farquhar (M.Acc.) ................................................................ Abilene, Texas Janie Kathryn Harbour (M.Acc.) .................................................................... Frisco, Texas Bryce Christopher Hill (M.Acc.) ................................................................. Houston, Texas Kyle W. Lott (M.Acc.) ....................................................................................... Merkel, Texas † Rachel Elizabeth Rankey (M.Acc.) ....................................................... Arlington, Texas Madison Taylor Shewmaker (M.Acc.) ........................................................... Dallas, Texas † Allison Rose Sorrells (M.Acc.) ..................................................................... Dallas, Texas Madison Paige Wall (M.Acc.) .................................................................... Magnolia, Texas

† Member of Alpha Chi National Honor Society

COLLEGE OF EDUCATION AND HUMAN SERVICES Kinesiology and Nutrition Pollyanne Elizabeth Ertis (M.S., Nutrition) .................... South Lake Tahoe, California Melissa Kathleen Pfeiffer (M.S., Nutrition) .............................. Mount Vernon, Indiana Kirsten Elizabeth Frances Robertson (M.S., Nutrition) ......................... Garland, Texas Occupational Therapy Ashly Maria Abraham (M.S., Occupational Therapy) ............................ Abilene, Texas School of Social Work Unique Zishay Quatrice Jackson (M.S.S.W.) ................................... Pittsburg, California Thesis: The Efficacy of a Rapid Rehousing Program Serving Adults Experiencing Homelessness in West Central Texas Chair: Dr. Malcolm Scott

COLLEGE OF GRADUATE AND PROFESSIONAL STUDIES Business Administration † Seth Thomas Alstrom (MBA) .................................................................... Abilene, Texas Nicholas Joel Carni (MBA) ............................................................................. Spring, Texas Michal Kate Durrington (MBA) ................................................................... Abilene, Texas Meagan Elizabeth Fulco (MBA) ................................................................. Burleson, Texas Benjamin Joseph Gensic (MBA) ................................................................... Abilene, Texas † Lori Eilene Herrick (MBA) ......................................................................... Abilene, Texas Taylor Ashley Humphrey (MBA) ................................................................. Decatur, Texas Kasey Michel Hutton (MBA) ........................................................................ Tuscola, Texas Jeffrey Dalton Ivey (MBA) ....................................................................... Fort Worth, Texas William J. Janoch (MBA) ................................................................................... Alvin, Texas Stephanie R. Johnson (MBA) ........................................................................... Wylie, Texas † Kristen Kay Komatz (MBA) ......................................................................... Austin, Texas † Ashton M. Long (MBA) ................................................................................... Justin, Texas Chantell Denise Long (MBA) ...................................................................... Lubbock, Texas Billy Ray McCrary III (MBA) .......................................................................... Temple, Texas Amber Miller (MBA) ............................................................................................. Van, Texas Mack A. Miller (MBA) ............................................................................ San Antonio, Texas Elizabeth S. Morrison (MBA) ....................................................................... Abilene, Texas Montha Keo Pao (MBA) ................................................................... Santa Rosa, California Traci Michelle Perez (MBA) ................................................................ Wichita Falls, Texas Garrison Wade Powell (MBA) ...................................................................... Abilene, Texas Joel Jameson Pratho (MBA) .................................................................... Midlothian, Texas Rhonda Sue Ragle (MBA) ................................................................................. Dallas, Texas Ahmed A. Ramadan (MBA) .......................................................................... Bedford, Texas † Member of Alpha Chi National Honor Society

Thomas C. Riley II (MBA) ................................................................... Seattle, Washington † Laurence J. Sheehan (MBA) ....................................................................... Crowley, Texas Colton McLean Southall (MBA) ...................................................... King George, Virginia Andres Jesus Valladolid (MBA) ........................................................... San Antonio, Texas Madison Nicole Welborn (MBA) ........................................................... The Colony, Texas Derrick Jamal Williams (MBA) .................................................................... Coppell, Texas Peter Garrett Zeller (MBA) ........................................................................... Abilene, Texas † Damian Claudio Zivic (MBA) ........................................................................ Plano, Texas Conflict Management and Resolution Felicia O. Haliburton (M.A., Conflict Management and Resolution) ...... Frisco, Texas Windy Lee Hall (M.A., Conflict Management and Resolution) ............. Crowley, Texas D’Lonika Matilda Jenkins-Carter (M.A., Conflict Management and Resolution) ...................... San Leandro, California Donelle Emily Johnson (M.A., Conflict Management and Resolution) .................................. McKinney, Texas Justin Garret Koonce (M.A., Conflict Management and Resolution) ...................................... Abilene, Texas Educational Leadership Sean Miguel Anderson (M.Ed., Higher Education) .......................... San Antonio, Texas Bridgett Ligon Brown (M.Ed., Higher Education) ........................... Sulphur, Oklahoma Travis Dixon (M.Ed., Higher Education) ................................................ Gilbert, Arizona Eugenia Glinsey (M.Ed., Higher Education) .............................................. Aubrey, Texas Charlie Curtis Goodson (Ed.S., Education Specialist) ............... Corpus Christi, Texas Jennifer T. Johnson (M.Ed., Higher Education) ............................ Knoxville, Tennessee Satoria S. Morris (M.Ed., Higher Education) ............................................... Dallas, Texas Tanicia Lenay Perry (M.Ed., Higher Education) ............................. San Jose, California † Angela Marie Reyes (M.Ed., Higher Education) ............................ San Antonio, Texas † Lee Ann Shaw (Ed.S., Education Specialist) .......................................... Canyon, Texas Jennifer Nicole Steed (M.Ed., Higher Education) ............................... Grapevine, Texas Melissa Sullivan (M.Ed., Higher Education) ................................ St. Augustine, Florida Zachary Tyler Tedrow (M.Ed., Higher Education) .......................... Rocklin, California † Misty Leigh Tom (M.Ed., Higher Education) ......................................... Abilene, Texas Sheridan Taylor Miller Topa (M.Ed., Higher Education) .......................... Spring, Texas Management Brian Michael Bullock (M.S., Management) ............................................... Austin, Texas Maria A. Nosrat (M.S., Management) ....................................................... Houston, Texas Cade Chism Osgood (M.S., Management) ......................................... Georgetown, Texas Emily Claire Penque (M.S., Management) ....................................... Jacksonville, Florida

† Member of Alpha Chi National Honor Society

Marriage and Family Therapy Oyewola Akangbe (M.M.F.T., Marriage and Family Therapy) ............................. Sicklerville, New Jersey Sara Elizabeth Alderman (M.M.F.T., Marriage and Family Therapy) ...... Plano, Texas Rachael Anderson (M.M.F.T., Marriage and Family Therapy) ........... Greenville, Texas Ashley Renee Foster (M.M.F.T., Marriage and Family Therapy) .............. Dallas, Texas Jeremy Ryan Gilliam (M.M.F.T., Marriage and Family Therapy) ............. Lufkin, Texas Katelyn Olivia Holcomb (M.M.F.T., Marriage and Family Therapy) ......................................... Kokomo, Indiana Lori Ann Johnson (M.M.F.T., Marriage and Family Therapy) ................ Boerne, Texas † Amy Danae Rhoads Kauffman (M.M.F.T., Marriage and Family Therapy) ......................... Charlotte, North Carolina Diana Patricia Lugg-Brown (M.M.F.T., Marriage and Family Therapy) ............................................... Forney, Texas Trisha Leigh McAda (M.M.F.T., Marriage and Family Therapy) .................................... Weatherford, Texas † Twanna Genell McKee (M.M.F.T., Marriage and Family Therapy) ........................................... Amarillo, Texas † Danielle Nicole Neely (M.M.F.T., Marriage and Family Therapy) ............................. Old Hickory, Tennessee Bernadette Yvonne Puente-Renteria (M.M.F.T., Marriage and Family Therapy) ................................................ Cibolo, Texas † Titania Denise Richard (M.M.F.T., Marriage and Family Therapy) ....................................... Fort Worth, Texas Gabriela Villa (M.M.F.T., Marriage and Family Therapy) ................. Fort Worth, Texas Organizational Development David K. Chien (M.S., Organizational Development) ........................ Fort Worth, Texas Emily H. Crawford (M.S., Organizational Development) ............... Brownwood, Texas Christina M. Johnson (M.S., Organizational Development) .......... Loveland, Colorado Kimberly Nichole Johnson (M.S., Organizational Development) ............ Dallas, Texas † Arlene Kasselman (M.S., Organizational Development) ..................... Abilene, Texas Ashley I. Kendall (M.S., Organizational Development) ...................... Cedar Hill, Texas Amber Lynn Kratschmer (M.S., Organizational Development) ........................................... Friendswood, Texas Jordan Taylor Martinez (M.S., Organizational Development) ................ Devine, Texas Wlehdae Maisha Moore (M.S., Organizational Development) ............... Austin, Texas Karmen Ransom (M.S., Organizational Development) ........................... DeSoto, Texas

† Member of Alpha Chi National Honor Society

Candidates for Undergraduate Degrees

COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCES Agricultural and Environmental Sciences Adrienne M. Mata (B.S., Animal Science) ................................................ Houston, Texas Rocio Aimee Rosales Carrillo (B.S., Animal Science) .......................... McKinney, Texas Jaxon Oren Speegle (B.S., Agribusiness) .................................................... Abilene, Texas Georgia Ann Stewart (B.S., Animal Science) .......................................... Alvarado, Texas Art and Design Joshua Peña (B.S., Interior Design; A.A., Architecture) ............................. Cibolo, Texas Rachel Hope Podruchny (B.S., Interior Design; A.A., Architecture) ...... Austin, Texas Jeremiah Daichi Roberts (B.F.A., Art) Cum Laude .................................. Okinawa, Japan Jhon Leiber Sevillano (B.F.A., Art) ................................................... Tabacundo, Ecuador Biology Hope Kristina Allen (B.A., Biology) ................................................................. Allen, Texas Sierra Ginelle Brock (B.S., Biology) ................................................ Princeton, New Jersey Natalie Niata Buckhalter (B.A., Biology) ..................................................... El Paso, Texas Austin Matthew Ryan Hale (B.S., Biology) ............................................. Granbury, Texas Kalley Elizabeth Loveless (B.S., Biology) ................................................. Rockwall, Texas Chemistry and Biochemistry Jackson Rice Altizer (B.S., Chemistry) .............................................. Concord, California Kirsten Waceera Gafner (B.S., Biochemistry) ........................................... Abilene, Texas ◊ Payne Robert Rodriguez (B.S., Biochemistry) Magna Cum Laude ...... Fresno, Texas Joshua Stephen Turner (B.S., Biochemistry) ................................................ Hurst, Texas Communication and Sociology David William Aquino (B.S., Communication) ........................................ Abilene, Texas Blakeli Kate Brookreson (B.S., Communication) .................................. Lampasas, Texas Madelyn Raye Cupit (B.S., Communication) Magna Cum Laude ................................................................................ Richmond, Texas ◊ Brianna Naomi Diaz (B.S., Sociology) ........................................... Anaheim, California Abigail Katherine Isler (B.S., Communication) .......................................... Austin, Texas Lauren Marie Little (B.S., Communication) Cum Laude ................ San Antonio, Texas Peyton Michael Mansell (B.S., Sociology) .................................................... Belton, Texas Jaron Denel Marshall (B.S., Communication) ................................ Baltimore, Maryland Zachary G. Snyder (B.S., Sociology) ............................................................ Abilene, Texas † Noemi Valenzuela (B.S., Communication) Summa Cum Laude ......... Tornillo, Texas Composite Interdisciplinary † Mikayla Ann Condra (B.S., Composite Interdisciplinary) Summa Cum Laude ................................................................................... Abilene, Texas

† Member of Alpha Chi National Honor Society ◊ University Scholar

History and Global Studies Kaylee Deann Jones (B.S., Social Studies-Teaching) ............................... Abilene, Texas Megan Kirby (B.S., Social Studies-Teaching) ..................................... Pflugerville, Texas Stefan James Truett (B.A., History) ........................................................... Midland, Texas Journalism and Mass Communication Natalie Elyse Alvarez (B.S., Advertising/Public Relations) ........ La Quinta, California Thomas Garrett Buffington (B.S., Multimedia) .......................................... Austin, Texas Gabriella Francesca Morales Foster (B.S., Advertising/Public Relations) Cum Laude .................................. Abilene, Texas Josiah Kwaku Oduro (B.S., Multimedia) ..................................................... Ateiku, Ghana Language and Literature † Sarah Jo Blankenship (B.A., English) Summa Cum Laude ................... Abilene, Texas Claya D. Davis (B.A., English) Magna Cum Laude ............................ Conway, Arkansas Lauren Abigail Waller (B.A., English) Cum Laude ........................................ Baird, Texas Liberal Studies Micayla Bryne Andrews (B.S., Liberal Studies) ............................... Montgomery, Texas Kathryn Ann Davis (B.S., Liberal Studies) .................................................. Joshua, Texas Cheney-Lynne Emberg (B.S., Liberal Studies) .......................................... Abilene, Texas Kameron Lloyd Mathews (B.S., Liberal Studies) ................................... Lancaster, Texas Tanner Chase Riley (B.S., Liberal Studies) .................................................... Clyde, Texas Demi Alexandra Willis (B.S., Liberal Studies) .............................................. Hurst, Texas Mathematics † Myriam Lisette Gutierrez (B.S., Mathematics) Summa Cum Laude ........................................................................... San Antonio, Texas Hannah Grace Widder (B.S., Mathematics-Teaching) Magna Cum Laude .................................................................................... Abilene, Texas Music Daniel Rayne Ayala (B.M., Music-Teaching, Instrument-All Level) ............................. San Antonio, Texas Aaron Mitchell Blackley (B.A., Music) .......................................................... Austin, Texas Audrey Ruth Cox (B.M., Music-Teaching, Instrument-All Level) Cum Laude ................................................................................................ Amarillo, Texas Hannah Michelle Davis (B.M., Music-Teaching, Voice-All Level) .......................................... Fort Worth, Texas Kellum Creed Harris (B.M., Music-Teaching, Instrument-All Level) ..................................... Abilene, Texas Lanisha Anyelis Morris (B.M., Music-Teaching, Voice-All Level) ......... Killeen, Texas Seth Peyton Vaught (B.M., Music-Teaching, Instrument-All Level) ........ Hurst, Texas

† Member of Alpha Chi National Honor Society

Political Science and Criminal Justice Adriana Michelle Garza (B.A., Political Science) Summa Cum Laude ....................................................................... New Braunfels, Texas Jason Colombus Gibson (B.A., Political Science) ..................................... Abilene, Texas James Matthew Kesner IV (B.A., Political Science) ...................................... Plano, Texas Dylan Sergio Lopez (B.S., Criminal Justice) ................................................ Godley, Texas Joshua James Loughren (B.A., Political Science) .............................. Trophy Club, Texas Jordan Rylan Paup (B.S., Criminal Justice) .................................. Central City, Nebraska *Rachel Kyana Williams (B.A., Political Science) ............................. San Antonio, Texas Psychology Hunter Alexandra Barker (B.S., Psychology) ............................................ Abilene, Texas Jordan Ripken Burke (B.S., Psychology) ..................................................... Abilene, Texas Rebekah Jenaila Casey (B.S., Psychology) ................................................. Abilene, Texas Madison Ansley Chapman (B.S., Psychology) Summa Cum Laude .......... Keller, Texas †*◊ Jaycee Bril Coker (B.S., Psychology) Summa Cum Laude ......... Fort Worth, Texas December Premier Fields (B.S., Psychology) ................................................ Dallas, Texas Carma Cassandra Frazier (B.S., Psychology) Summa Cum Laude ....................................................................... Flower Mound, Texas Claire Elizabeth Gaither (B.S., Psychology) ................................................. Yantis, Texas Emily Anne Heidman (B.S., Psychology) ................................................... Abilene, Texas Audrey Lee Janssen (B.S., Psychology) Summa Cum Laude ..................................................................... Brentwood, Tennessee Sofia Ione LaFranco (B.S., Psychology) .............................................. San Antonio, Texas Moriah Patricia Ortiz (B.S., Psychology) Cum Laude ...... North Richland Hills, Texas † Garland Elizabeth Spore (B.S., Psychology) Summa Cum Laude ...... Lubbock, Texas Alexis Alexandria Thomas (B.S., Psychology) .................................... Fort Worth, Texas *◊ Aviel K. Weaver (B.S., Psychology) Cum Laude ..................................... Austin, Texas Diamond Jewel Willcot (B.S., Psychology) ............................................ Cedar Hill, Texas

COLLEGE OF BIBLICAL STUDIES Bible, Missions and Ministry Colt Braden Bennett (B.A., Ministry and Vocation) ............................... Midland, Texas Jasmine Joanne Wilson (B.A., Ministry and Vocation) Summa Cum Laude ................................................................................ Converse, Texas Marriage and Family Studies Emily Nicole Hendrix (B.S., Child and Family Services) .......................... Ponder, Texas Kennedy L. Oates (B.S., Child and Family Services) ................................. Denton, Texas Abby Rhea Warner (B.S., Child and Family Services) ........................... Amarillo, Texas Grayson Caroline Weast (B.S., Child and Family Services) Summa Cum Laude .............................................................. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma Emma Christine Weatherford (B.S., Child and Family Services) .......... Denton, Texas

† Member of Alpha Chi National Honor Society * Honors Scholar or Honors Associate ◊ University Scholar

COLLEGE OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION Accounting and Finance Joshua Allan Brown (B.B.A., Accounting; Financial Management) Summa Cum Laude .................................................................................. Midland, Texas Javen Daniel Buckett (B.B.A., Financial Management) ....................... Arlington, Texas John Christian Charamella (B.B.A., Financial Management; Accounting) .......................... Flower Mound, Texas Ryan Chase Christian (B.B.A., Financial Management) ............................ Belton, Texas Christopher Lee Contreras (B.B.A., Financial Management) Cum Laude .......................................................................................... San Antonio, Texas John Joseph Craig (B.B.A., Financial Management) ................... Newcastle, Oklahoma †◊ Madison Kathryn Crockett (B.B.A., Accounting) Summa Cum Laude .................................................................................. Lubbock, Texas Hutton Jack Frazier (B.B.A., Accounting) .................................................. Abilene, Texas Everett Thomas Gunnoe (B.B.A., Accounting; Financial Management) .......................................... Krum, Texas Bailee Lauren Hightower (B.B.A., Accounting) ....................................... Whitney, Texas Clayton McLeod King (B.B.A., Accounting; Financial Management) .......................... Richland Hills, Texas Truett Alexander Knox (B.B.A., Financial Management) ................. Fort Worth, Texas Conner James Miller (B.B.A., Financial Management; Marketing) ................................... Carrollton, Texas Emma Kate Perkins (B.B.A., Accounting) Summa Cum Laude .......................................................................... Edmond, Oklahoma † William Todd Phinney (B.B.A., Accounting) Summa Cum Laude ......................................... Colleyville, Texas Greyson Covey Piersall (B.B.A., Accounting) ........................................... Abilene, Texas Conner Reed Podsednik (B.B.A., Financial Management) ................ Colleyville, Texas Colton Michael Schannuth (B.B.A., Accounting) Cum Laude ............ Parker, Colorado Roland Gottfried Schmitt IV (B.B.A., Financial Management) ......... Arlington, Texas Justus Stevens (B.B.A., Accounting; Financial Management) ................... Plano, Texas Suyilun Wang (B.B.A., Financial Management) .................................... Shanghai, China Qua’Shawn Marquis Washington (B.B.A., Financial Management) ............................................................. Abilene, Texas Kecheng Zhu (B.B.A., Financial Management) ...................................... Shanghai, China Management Sciences Christina Arteaga (B.B.A., Management) .................................................... Manor, Texas Trent Bradley Beakley (B.B.A., Marketing) ................................................. Argyle, Texas Chase Barrett Benton (B.B.A., Information Systems) ............................. Tuscola, Texas Atticus J. Brown (B.B.A., Management) .................................................... Midland, Texas Alejandra Ceniceros Gomez (B.B.A., Marketing) Summa Cum Laude ................................................................................... Coppell, Texas Alexander M. Cochrum (B.B.A., Information Systems) ............................ Bryan, Texas

† Member of Alpha Chi National Honor Society ◊ University Scholar

Amber Nicole Dyer (B.B.A., Marketing) Summa Cum Laude.............. Arlington, Texas Anthony Robert Fago (B.B.A., Information Systems) ............................. Abilene, Texas Miranda Marie Faz (B.B.A., Marketing; Management) ........................ Edinburg, Texas ◊ Benjamin Aaron Fridge (B.B.A., Marketing; Management) ................ Abilene, Texas Courtney Paige Gould (B.B.A., Marketing) ................................................... Keller, Texas Bryce Quinton Gregory (B.B.A., Information Systems) Magna Cum Laude .................................................................................... Abilene, Texas Parker Reid Havens (B.B.A., Management) Summa Cum Laude ................. Hico, Texas Brandon Thomas Homer (B.B.A., Management) ...................................... Abilene, Texas Kaleb Carl Johnson (B.B.A., Management) Cum Laude ..................... Dyess AFB, Texas Hunter Lance Kier (B.B.A., Management) ....................................... Washington, Kansas Garrett Paul Kirkconnell (B.B.A., Marketing) ....................................... McKinney, Texas Sydney Brooke Morris (B.B.A., Management; Accounting) ................... Leander, Texas Katherine Margaret Jane Norris (B.B.A., Marketing; Management) Magna Cum Laude ................... Texas City, Texas Jamie C. Ovalle (B.B.A., Management) ............................................... Waxahachie, Texas Hunter Blaine Pitaniello (B.B.A., Management) Summa Cum Laude .................................................................................. Lubbock, Texas Eric Thomas Rogers (B.B.A., Management) .............................................. Abilene, Texas Jack Ryan Schultz (B.B.A., Marketing) .................................... Granada Hills, California Riley Warner Simpson (B.B.A., Management) ......................... Dripping Springs, Texas Cameron Phillips Smiley (B.B.A., Management) ............................... Liberty Hill, Texas Chase Riley Stewart (B.B.A., Information Systems) ................ Highland Village, Texas David Stone (B.B.A., Management) ..................................................... Rocklin, California Kaylee Joyce Wiginton (B.B.A., Marketing; Management) Magna Cum Laude ............................................................................ Round Rock, Texas School of Information Technology and Computing † Sarah Kathryn Hall (B.S., Computer Science) ....................................... Schertz, Texas Felix Angelo Baptist Mbikogbia (B.S., Computer Science) ..................... Kigali, Rwanda Lucas Daniel Newton (B.S., Computer Science) ............................... San Antonio, Texas ◊ Camila Fernanda Rodrigues Velasquez (B.S., Digital Entertainment Technology) Magna Cum Laude ...... Southlake, Texas Kyle Austin Valadez (B.S., Digital Entertainment Technology) ............. Denton, Texas Abigail ReNae Verhelle (B.S., Computer Science) ............................ Jacksonville, Texas

† Member of Alpha Chi National Honor Society ◊ University Scholar

COLLEGE OF EDUCATION AND HUMAN SERVICES Communication Sciences and Disorders Torey Ann Bradshaw (B.S., Communication Disorders) Summa Cum Laude ................................................................................... Tuscola, Texas Morgan Lynn Dyson (B.S., Communication Disorders) Magna Cum Laude ............................................................................... Grapevine, Texas K’lynne Rae Massey (B.S., Communication Disorders) Summa Cum Laude ..................................................................................... Forney, Texas Alexa Christine Sanchez (B.S., Communication Disorders) Magna Cum Laude ................................................................................... Saginaw, Texas Jalyn Nicole Scott (B.S., Communication Disorders) Cum Laude ......... Abilene, Texas Kinesiology and Nutrition Madaleen Rachel Acosta (B.S., Nutrition) .............................................. Edinburg, Texas Hannah Catherine Brannen (B.S., Kinesiology) Summa Cum Laude .................................................................................... Conroe, Texas Reece Liam Davidson (B.S., Kinesiology) ............................................. Arvada, Colorado Reese Dale Dunagan (B.S., Kinesiology) .................................................. Kerrville, Texas Amanda Desireé Hinojosa (B.S., Nutrition) ...................................... San Antonio, Texas Junliang Liu (B.S., Kinesiology) ................................................................ Shanghai, China Kacey Gibson Middelkoop (B.S., Kinesiology) .......................................... Abilene, Texas Conrad Thomas Perry III (B.S., Kinesiology) ........................................ Pinehurst, Texas Lauren Elise Posey (B.S., Kinesiology) Summa Cum Laude ....................... Keller, Texas Kristen Celeste Reyna (B.S., Kinesiology) ..................................................... Cibolo, Texas Anna Olivia Rothschadl (B.S., Kinesiology) Summa Cum Laude .............. Keller, Texas Sarah Elizabeth Shoptaw (B.S., Kinesiology) Cum Laude ................ Fort Worth, Texas Josiah David Thomason (B.S., Kinesiology) Magna Cum Laude ........................................................................ Stillwater, Oklahoma † Micah Ann Thompson (B.S., Kinesiology) Summa Cum Laude ..... Cleveland, Texas Teacher Education Alyson Ann Bator (B.S., Special Education, Elementary) ........................... Keller, Texas Halley Elizabeth Foster (B.S., Interdisciplinary Studies, Elementary) .......................................... Dallas, Texas Mya B. Henson (B.S., Interdisciplinary Studies, Elementary) ....... San Antonio, Texas † Alex Marie Kitten (B.S., Middle School Education) Summa Cum Laude .................................................................................. Lubbock, Texas Erin Grace May (B.S., Interdisciplinary Studies, Elementary) Magna Cum Laude ................................................................................ Tulsa, Oklahoma Jordan LaShuen Milton (B.S., Middle School Education) ................. Fort Worth, Texas

† Member of Alpha Chi National Honor Society

SCHOOL OF NURSING Nursing Kaitlyn Nicole Ashley (B.S.N., Nursing) Cum Laude .............................. Saginaw, Texas *Julissa Anahi Avila (B.S.N., Nursing) ...................................................... Houston, Texas Carly Mae Cheek (B.S.N., Nursing) Magna Cum Laude ....................... Granbury, Texas Alyssa Margarita Gonzalez (B.S.N., Nursing) ........................................... Abilene, Texas Samone Mariah Holder (B.S.N., Nursing) ......................................... San Antonio, Texas Megan Caroline Holley (B.S.N., Nursing) Magna Cum Laude ......... Fort Worth, Texas Nancy Ibarra (B.S.N., Nursing) ............................................................. Cedar Park, Texas Adrionna Kaylan Jones (B.S.N., Nursing) ..................................................... Frisco, Texas Wilson Chase Kirkbride (B.S.N., Nursing) Cum Laude .......................... Denison, Texas Laura Loftus (B.S.N., Nursing) Magna Cum Laude ......................... San Antonio, Texas Jenna Grace Mulrooney (B.S.N., Nursing) ..................................... Lockeford, California Savannah Renee Phares (B.S.N., Nursing) Magna Cum Laude .............. Melissa, Texas Madison Nicole Ray (B.S.N., Nursing) ............................................................ Allen, Texas Chelsea Elaine Rios (B.S.N., Nursing) ...................................................... Watauga, Texas Chandler Sierra Rodgers (B.S.N., Nursing) ..................................... Grand Prairie, Texas Micaela Araceli Rosales (B.S.N., Nursing) ......................................... San Antonio, Texas Caleb Wade Shirley (B.S.N., Nursing) ................................................... Monahans, Texas Natalie Anne Wodka (B.S.N., Nursing) ........................................................... Allen, Texas

* Honors Scholar or Honors Associate

COLLEGE OF GRADUATE AND PROFESSIONAL STUDIES Information Technology Administration Ndifreke John Augustine (B.S., Information Technology Administration) .................................... Dallas, Texas James Robert Goldsmith (B.S., Information Technology Administration) ................................. Leander, Texas Manuel Ramon Mendoza (B.S., Information Technology Administration) ............................. Spearman, Texas Integrated Studies Rachel Brooke Adams (B.S., Integrated Studies) Magna Cum Laude ..................................................................................... Odessa, Texas Allison Leigh Barksdale (B.S., Integrated Studies) ......................... Weatherford, Texas Sunia Junior Filikitonga Jr. (B.S., Integrated Studies) ................................ Euless, Texas Christopher Lee Fowler Jr. (B.S., Integrated Studies) ................................ Austin, Texas Edmund Garcia (B.S., Integrated Studies) .............................................. Rosharon, Texas Shane Nathaniel King (B.S., Integrated Studies) ..................................... Abilene, Texas Erica McNally (B.S., Integrated Studies) ................................................ Pinehurst, Texas Christy Michelle Mercado (B.S., Integrated Studies) .......................... Dickinson, Texas Lisa Mesa-Rogers (B.S., Integrated Studies) .............................................. Coppell, Texas Kimberly Wells Monroe (B.S., Integrated Studies) ...................................... Plano, Texas Emily Grace Mullins (B.S., Integrated Studies) .......................... Overland Park, Kansas Diana Elizabeth Ramirez (B.S., Integrated Studies) ................................ Garland, Texas Kerry Marie Esther Rasco (B.S., Integrated Studies) ............................... Abilene, Texas Elijah D. Rodriguez (B.S., Integrated Studies) .......................................... Leander, Texas Dallas Vincent Sealey (B.S., Integrated Studies) ......................... Newcastle, Oklahoma Callan Simpson (B.S., Integrated Studies) ..................................................... Plano, Texas Virginia Leigh Stocker (B.S., Integrated Studies) ..................................... Abilene, Texas Steven Austin Wilson (B.S., Integrated Studies) ............................ Alexandria, Virginia Psychology Abigail Loriel Clay (B.S., Psychology) ............................................................ Euless, Texas Amy Elizabeth Foster (B.S., Psychology) ......................................... Anaheim, California Amanda Gene Goodson (B.S., Psychology) .................................................. Irving, Texas Anna Victoria Guerrero (B.S., Psychology) .............................................. Houston, Texas Cecilia N. Hernandez (B.S., Psychology) .................................... Farmers Branch, Texas Sarah Ashlyn Hobbs (B.S., Psychology) ............................................... Cedar Park, Texas Alyssa Nicole Jones (B.S., Psychology) ....................................................... Abilene, Texas Brandon P. Kaag (B.S., Psychology) ....................................................... Fort Worth, Texas Talia Grace Montgomery-Scott (B.S., Psychology) .................................... Austin, Texas Brandi R. Phillips (B.S., Psychology) Summa Cum Laude ...................... Abilene, Texas Stacy Reynolds (B.S., Psychology) .............................................................. Abilene, Texas

KEY TO DEGREE ABBREVIATIONS Associate of Arts ................................................... A.A. Bachelor of Arts ...................................................... B.A. Bachelor of Business Administration ................ B.B.A. Bachelor of Fine Arts ........................................... B.F.A. Bachelor of Music .................................................. B.M. Bachelor of Science ................................................ B.S. Bachelor of Science in Nursing .......................... B.S.N. Doctor of Education .............................................. Ed.D. Doctor of Ministry ............................................... D.Min. Doctor of Nursing Practice ................................. D.N.P.

Education Specialist ............................................. Ed.S. Master of Accountancy ...................................... M.Acc. Master of Arts ........................................................ M.A. Master of Arts in Christian Ministry .............. M.A.C.M. Master of Business Administration ....................... MBA Master of Divinity ............................................... M.Div. Master of Education ............................................ M.Ed. Master of Marriage and Family Therapy......... M.M.F.T. Master of Science .................................................. M.S. Master of Science in Social Work ................... M.S.S.W.

Students listed in the program are candidates for the indicated degree but inclusion in the program does not confirm a degree has been earned. The degree will only be awarded after all degree requirements have been completed.

UNDERGRADUATE ACADEMIC HONORS

Honors at Commencement are based on a student’s GPA on courses taken at ACU. Students must complete at least 64 hours of course work at ACU to qualify to graduate with honors. The GPA thresholds for honors at graduation are 3.6 for cum laude, 3.75 for magna cum laude, and 3.9 for summa cum laude. Honors listed in the Commencement program are based on the current GPA at the time of the graduation. If the final semester’s grades alter the student’s standing, the correct honor will be noted on the diploma. For the distinction of Honors Scholar or Honors Associate, a student’s degree must be enriched with course work through the Honors College. The distinction also requires a GPA of at least 3.5 at the time of graduation. Honors College graduates wear gold stoles in Commencement. University Scholars have superior academic records combined with outstanding service to their department and the university. These students must be recommended by their department and their college to receive this honor. They receive a medallion to be worn with their academic regalia.

Graduate Awards Outstanding Dissertation

Joan Evans Otten (Ed.D., Organizational Leadership)

Teacher Mentorship Program’s Influence on Novice Teachers’ Decision to Stay: A Case Study Chair: Dr. Linnea Rademaker (Participated in the May 2021 Commencement Ceremony)

Outstanding Doctoral Project Keisha Danielle McKinsey (D.N.P.)

Assessing the Perceptions and Attitudes of Burnout Syndrome in Nurse Practitioners in Primary Care Settings Chair: Dr. Tonja Hartjes

Undergraduate Awards Lemoine G. Lewis Valedictorian Award (4.0 GPA)

Torey Ann Bradshaw Joshua Allan Brown Madison Kathryn Crockett Alejandra Ceniceros Gomez Myriam Lisette Gutierrez

Audrey Lee Janssen Emma Kate Perkins Lauren Elise Posey Garland Elizabeth Spore

Honor Man Riley Simpson

Trustees Award Megan Holley Jordan Paup

Honor Woman Maddy Crockett

Dean Adams Achievement Award Halley Foster K’Lynne Massey Zach Snyder Rachel Williams

The Academic Hood

The academic regalia worn at college commencements, consisting of a gown, mortarboard cap and hood, originated in medieval Europe. When universities began about the 12th century, the basic item of apparel worn by men and women alike was a long gown or robe. The colors and materials often indicated the social status and wealth of the wearer. An outer cloak was worn over the gown in cold weather. The cloak had a hood hanging down the back, which could be pulled up to cover the head. The modern academic hood has evolved from this medieval garment. Over the centuries, fashion changed, but the European universities retained the medieval dress. The scholars’ apparel was prescribed by university rules and distinguished the scholar from the commoner. In the 18th century, King’s College (now Columbia University) in New York and other colonial colleges began to use the academic apparel of English universities at their graduation ceremonies. The practice spread widely in the U.S. after 1880, and in 1895 an Intercollegiate Commission adopted a code of academic dress that most colleges follow today. The hood is a symbol of the degree the wearer holds and is the most distinctive part of the academic dress. The colors of the hood identify the degree and university or college that conferred it. Hoods worn by the faculty of Abilene Christian University in the Commencement processional are a colorful spectacle representing the many graduate schools faculty members have attended. The hood is lined and carries the colors of the institution conferring the degree – the hoods for all ACU degrees are lined with the familiar purple and white. The velvet border on the outside of the hood identifies the degree: white for the B.A., M.A. and M.L.A.; gold for the B.S., M.S. and S.S.P.; tan for the B.B.A., M.Acc. and MBA; brown for the B.F.A.; pink for the B.M.; orange for the B.S.E.; apricot for the B.S.N., M.S.N. and D.N.P.; sage green for the M.A.T. and M.H.A.; citron for the M.S.S.W.; blue for the M.Ed., Ed.D. and Ed.S.; and scarlet for the M.Div., M.A.C.M., M.A.Mi., M.A.T.S., M.M.F.T. and D.Min. The master’s degree is distinguished from the bachelor’s degree by a wide border. The undergraduate hooding ceremony is one of the high points in an ACU Commencement, for in this ceremony a loved one or friend is privileged to place upon the graduate the centuries-old symbol of his or her academic degree.

ACU Box 29131, Abilene, Texas 79699-9131 325-674-2622 • 800-373-4220 acu.edu/alumni

Dear ACU Graduate, On behalf of the ACU Alumni Association, congratulations – and welcome! My team and I are so proud of you and your accomplishments throughout your time here. You now join tens of thousands of alumni who have embarked on the journey you are about to undertake. Your hard work, dedication and perseverance have made it possible for you to achieve this impressive milestone. We have been where you are and remember the excitement you feel today. I hope you’ll continue your relationship with your alma mater. By being an active member of the alumni community, you can be instrumental in the continued success of ACU – and, by extension, the thousands of students who will come after you. Don’t be a stranger! If there is any way we can be of service, reach out to us at alumni@acu.edu. Don’t forget to visit our website at acu.edu/alumni to keep in touch and create your account on the alumni directory so you can start receiving your ACU Today magazine. Stay connected with us on Instagram (@acualumni), and you also can connect to ACU through Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. Be sure to visit acu.edu/news to stay on top of the latest campus happenings. Congratulations again on a job well done. Take the opportunity to make a real difference in the world by sharing the love of Jesus with everyone you meet and continuing to practice the unique service-based leadership to which he has called us. Please share your ACU experiences with those you meet and come back to campus whenever possible. We’ll be here to welcome you. For the Purple and White,

Craig Fisher (’92) Associate Vice President for Advancement and Alumni

“Oh, Dear Christian College” Oh, dear Christian College, we love you, Our dear Alma Mater, today;

Like the stars shining brightly above you, Your fame shall shine brightly for aye. To you we’ll prove faithful and loyal, While ever upholding the right, And gladly we’ll give forth the royal, Three cheers for the purple and white. Then we’ll pledge our love to Christian, To her is honor due; While we gaily sing let praises ring, For our Alma Mater true.

210569-1221