Point University welcomed its newest alumni during a commencement ceremony held Saturday at the Convention and Trade Center in Columbus, Georgia. Four hundred ten students earned associate, bachelor’s and master’s degrees.
This spring’s commencement speaker was President Dean Collins, who will retire from the presidency in June.
In his commencement address, Collins gave graduates five instructions. First, he reminded them to pay attention to the people God places in their lives. “Your relationships and your education go together,” said Collins. “They’re not just for your enjoyment. They are gifts that God gives so that you can bless others, serve him and bring his transformation to the world.”
Second, he told graduates that their career is not their next job. Their careers are a journey. “Someday, you will look back and see how God wove a beautiful tapestry out of all your different experiences,” said Collins.
Collins’ third point was to keep learning, followed by a reminder to never underestimate the power of small beginnings. “No matter where your path starts, your beginning matters,” he said. “Be faithful in it, and don’t look down on the things you’re asked to do.”
Finally, Collins instructed the class of 2025 to never aim too low. “God is not just involved in your life. He has invited you to participate in his grand plan to renew and restore all things,” said Collins.
Each year, the University recognizes an outstanding graduate from both the residential and online bachelor’s degree programs with the Hathcock Award, the highest honor given to a graduating Point student. Named for the University’s founder, the award is given based on academic achievement, character and servant leadership. This spring’s Hathcock Award recipients are Ava Clay, a communications major from Columbus, Georgia, and Vernon Smith, a criminal justice major from Hamilton, Georgia.
This year, the University also presented the Vulcan Teaching Excellence Award to one exceptional faculty member for demonstrating strong academic skills in the classroom and providing leadership and support in other areas of campus life. This year’s recipient was Dr. Nathan Jones, associate professor of biblical studies.
Family and friends of graduates who were unable to attend in person may access the recorded commencement ceremony on the University’s YouTube page; visit point.edu/commencement for more details.
Point University welcomed its newest alumni during a commencement ceremony held Saturday at the Convention and Trade Center in Columbus, Georgia. Four hundred ten students earned associate, bachelor’s and master’s degrees.
