As the 142 McPherson College bachelor’s students and - for the first time - nine Master of Education students marked their graduation at commencement, they heard both about the value of their talents and the value of their human weakness.
Dr. Kent Eaton, provost, gave the commencement address for the McPherson College class of 2014 on May 25 in Brown Auditorium - one of his last actions before officially resigning as provost.
Dr. Eaton used the Biblical metaphor of “treasures in jars of clay” to give advice to the newest MC alumni. Treasure, he said, represents the talents and abilities they all possess to transform the world. The “jars of clay” meanwhile, represent how the graduates should avoid arrogance in those abilities.
“Rather than falling into that trap, I want to encourage you today to take a road less traveled,” Dr. Eaton said. “It’s one that says rather than to defend oneself in what seems to be attack, choose to take the more lonely road and embrace the metaphor of the fragility of a jar of clay.”
Dr. Eaton emphasized that as the students go out into the larger world, those at McPherson College will continue to support and encourage them.
“We are proud of you beyond measure,” he said. “We celebrate your achievements and we look forward to even greater things as you move out from here to serve the world that so desperately needs your talents, your entrepreneurship and your energy.”
Rod Gieselman, associate professor of business, presented the homily at commencement and spoke about the concept of “milestones” as an opportunity to reflect on the past and look to the future. In particular, he wanted students to realize that the bulk of their lifelong learning was not behind them, but on the road ahead.
“As you pause today at this milestone, you should view the road ahead of you with anticipation and excitement. You now have the opportunity to learn just for the joy of learning,” Gieselman said. “Get started.”
Local graduates receiving their bachelor’s degrees are Trenton Gregory Reif and Derek Stephenson, both of Great Bend.