VWC family, friends and faculty celebrate mid-year graduates Dec. 7
By Staff | December 9, 2014
The Virginia Wesleyan College community honored approximately 50 seniors Dec. 7 at the 2014 December Graduate Reception. Family, friends and faculty gathered in the Jane P. Batten Convocation Center to celebrate students scheduled to complete their graduation requirements at the end of the fall 2014 semester.
VWC Assistant Professor of Political Science Aubrey Westfall, recipient of the 2014 Samuel Nelson Gray Distinguished Teaching Award, served as the ceremony’s speaker. Her address, “Whatever You Do, Don’t Be Boring,” expressed her conviction that people who aren't boring are never bored and outlined strategies for living a meaningful and exciting life.
“It’s one of my own personal fears,” Westfall says. “One thing I definitely don’t want to be in my life is boring. Research shows that you can avoid it by experiencing more; being interested in the world and people around you; traveling; being open and emotive; diversifying your hobbies; being genuinely open minded; and becoming a well-informed person—which also involves being capable of changing your mind. You may not know where you're going from here, but wherever it is, don't be boring.”
Graduating senior Brian Drake, a criminal justice and political science double major, reflected on his accomplishments and development during his years at the College.
"It’s been a time of extreme growth both academically and personally,” says the Bloomington, Indiana native. “I’ve gained lifelong friends and critical skills that I will apply in my future endeavors. I’ll cherish my time here and look forward to what’s next.”
Drake hopes to one day run for congress and will take a step toward that goal in January as he begins an internship with Scott Rigell, the U.S. Representative for Virginia's second congressional district.
Amy Rickard ’98, president of the Virginia Wesleyan College Alumni Association, welcomed students to their new place in the VWC alumni family and presented each graduate with a special gift as a token of congratulations.
December graduates are invited to participate in the College’s 46th Commencement Ceremony, which will be held Saturday, May 16, 2014.