Homecoming Brings Lindsey Wilson College Class of 2020 Back to Campus
COLUMBIA, KY. -- When Waverly Williams received the news that she would have the opportunity to celebrate her graduation from LWC in-person, she felt grateful to be able to close out an important chapter in her academic journey.
“Even though we had other opportunities to celebrate and be recognized, this is what our class really needed,” said Williams, pictured, a business administration graduate from Elizabethtown, Kentucky. “...the chance to cross the stage and have the big moment we’ve all dreamed of. It’s a closure moment and it makes the accomplishment feel more real.”
The ceremony, which honored the LWC Class of 2020 graduates, took place as a part of 2021 Homecoming.
LWC 111th and 112th Commencement Ceremonies
LWC President William T. Luckey Jr., echoed the need for closure as he welcomed the graduates back to campus.
“We are so happy to have you back on campus, to properly recognize you, live and in person for your graduation this morning,” Luckey said. “We know that you have launched into the next phase of your life. We are so honored that you cared enough to be back here today and to put an exclamation mark on your accomplishments.”
The Class of 2020 returned to LWC after their final year was upended by the COVID-19 pandemic. It has been more than 16 months since they received their degrees.
“It has been really good to see people I haven’t seen in over a year,” said Williams. “I got to spend time with a couple of my roommates and my accounting instructor, Ms. Katie Curry. I didn’t know she was going to be here, so that was a nice surprise.”
Human services and counseling graduate Crystal Avila from Chicago, Illinois, traveled more than seven hours -- through the night -- to get the chance to walk across the commencement stage.
“We are all very tired today,” said Avila who brought a large cheering section to the ceremony. “My mom and my dad have supported me so much. They wanted me to finish college and see me graduate. They convinced me it was important that we make the trip and for me to take part in the in-person ceremony.”
Four Individuals Recognized at LWC 2021 Homecoming
The LWC National Alumni Association recognized two individuals in a small ceremony at the Emiley Hundley President’s Home on Friday evening: 1960 alumna Karen Sue Pendleton Wilson, pictured, a Columbia native who now lives in Bowling Green, Kentucky, received the Distinguished Alumna award; and Garmoline Carpenter, of Russell Springs, Kentucky, was named an Honorary Alumna, posthumously. Her son, Dante and granddaughter, Elise accepted the award on her behalf. Earlier in the day, Linda McKinley ’66 Grider of Columbia, was recognized for her distinguished service to the College. Kasey Compton ’09 will receive her award as the 2021 Outstanding Young Alumna at a later date.
Nursing Blessing and White Coat Ceremony
The science and art of nursing was extolled Friday evening at Lindsey Wilson College as the latest cohort of nurses was accepted into the college's nursing program.
The 26 students were part of the "Blessing and White Coat Ceremony," held Friday, October 1, in V.P. Henry Auditorium. The students received a white coat to symbolize their official entrance into the program after their hands were blessed by LWC Assistant Professor of Religion Curt Lee.
LWC Singers Reunion
More than 41 alumni of the LWC Singers program returned to campus for Lindsey Wilson’s homecoming festivities. In addition to the reunion, the alumni took part in the LWC Singers Candlelight Ceremony: Signing of the Standards of Excellence -- an annual ceremony that introduces new members to the distinguished traditions and accomplishments of the LWC choral programs.
Alix Castillo is Homecoming Queen and Eli Cross is Homecoming King
On Saturday afternoon, the LWC student body crowned the homecoming queen and king during halftime of the LWC football game at Parnell Family Stadium. Alix Castillo of Richmond, Kentucky, was crowned queen, and Elijah Cross of Dowelltown, Tennessee, was crowned king. The LWC Blue Raiders set a new program record for consecutive wins securing its 15th straight over the Cumberland University Phoenix.
MORE FROM LWC 2021 HOMECOMING:
• Click here to see a photo blog from LWC 2021 Homecoming Celebration.
• Click here to see more photos from the fall in-person commencement ceremony for the Class of 2020.
• Click here to see more photos from the 2021 Homecoming President's Reception and awards presentations.
• Click here to see more photos from the nursing program 2021 Blessing and White Coat Ceremony.
• Click here to see more photos from the crowning of the 2021 homecoming king and queen.
• Click here to see photos from the LWC-Cumberland (Tennessee) University football game.