FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Elgin, IL — Judson University proudly held its Fall 2024 Commencement Ceremonies on December 14, 2024 at the Herrick Chapel on its Elgin, Illinois campus. The event celebrated the achievements of 150 graduates receiving their certificate, associate, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree. The ceremonies, held at 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., featured Dr. Nick Perrin, former President of Trinity International University, as the keynote speaker for both sessions.
The 10:00 a.m. ceremony was particularly historic as it marked the graduation of Judson’s inaugural class of the Master of Business Administration in Informatics (MBA-I) program. Dana Onayemi, Director of the Graduate Department of Computer Science, commemorated the inaugural occasion stating, “A milestone moment! Our first MBA-I graduating class of 55 is ready to take on the world. We’re excited to see the impact they’ll make.” Onayemi also praised the Doctor of Education (EdD) in Computer Science graduates, stating, “Congratulations, Doctors! Our second cohort of 8 Doctor of Education in Computer Science graduates have achieved a remarkable feat. We’re honored to have been part of their journey.”
The 2:00 p.m. ceremony focused on traditional undergraduate students, highlighting the culmination of years of academic dedication. This ceremony also marked a significant moment for Judson’s partnership with Ambria College of Nursing, as Ambria’s nursing students celebrated their graduation alongside Judson’s traditional undergraduate students.
President’s Scholar Award
Among the outstanding graduates at the 2:00 p.m. ceremony was John (Jack) Sanders, recipient of the prestigious President’s Scholar Award. The award is presented each semester to a graduating senior who exemplifies distinguished academic excellence within the context of a Christian liberal arts education.
John Sanders, a double major in Secondary Education Mathematics and Mathematics, with a minor in Music Performance (Instrumental Percussion), stood out as a scholar and leader. His achievements include membership in Kappa Delta Pi, the International Honor Society in Education, and service on the Scotland Mission Team. Faculty and mentors lauded his work ethic, passion for education, and compassion for students. One supervising faculty member remarked, “Jack has it all. He is academically talented and a professional learner. But he also possesses, by far, among the richest heart and soul of those with whom I have worked. He not only teaches students, he touches kids’ lives!”
Judson University’s Fall 2024 Commencement reflects the university’s commitment to academic excellence, faith-based leadership, and the development of graduates who are prepared to make an impact in their chosen fields. With the addition of the MBA-I and EdD in Computer Science programs, as well as the partnership with Ambria College of Nursing, Judson continues to expand its offerings to meet the needs of an evolving, technology-driven world.
Today’s celebration honored the following graduates:
–10 Certificate in Practical Nursing (LPN)
–26 Associate of Arts in Applied Science (RN)
–3 Associate of Arts
–34 Bachelor’s degrees
–68 Master’s degrees
–8 Doctorate of Education (EdD) in Computer Science
Special Gift for Graduates Highlights Judson’s Family Spirit
Judson University is known for its close-knit community, often described as a “Judson Family,” and that sentiment was on full display during the Fall 2024 Commencement. Each graduate were given a gift, which was a copy of the children’s book “Zep’s Surprise,” written by Judson alumnus and trustee Randy Gauger. Adding to the sense of family, the book was illustrated by Sophia Duguid, Gauger’s granddaughter. This gift is a reflection of the family bond that exists at Judson, reminding us that while we cherish our earthly family and the place we hold within it, we also have a cherished spot in God’s family, where love, belonging, and purpose are eternal.
About Judson University
Judson University is a fully accredited, private Christian university located in Elgin, Illinois. The university offers more than 60 undergraduate majors, minors, and pre-professional programs, along with graduate programs in business, architecture, education, and more. Guided by its Christian mission, Judson prepares students to serve as leaders in their careers, communities, and churches.
###