Inspire, Summer 2007

24 Summer 2007 Inspire 25 On May 5, the University celebrated its 111th commencement, awarding degrees to 699 students — its largest class yet. Chuck Colson, founder and chair of Prison Fellowship, offered graduates two words to remember: truth and courage. Dr. Colson told his audience, “The greatest single crisis in our world today … is that we have abandoned truth.” He explained that truth is knowable and absolute and exhorted the graduates to live with courage. Three graduates were honored with the University’s most prestigious student award, the President’s Trophy, which recognizes community and campus involvement, leadership, ministry, athletic performance, and academic achievement. The 2007 recipients were Conrad Bear, a music major from Sugarcreek, Ohio; Kristi Beougher, a Christian education and youth ministries major from Louisville, Kentucky; and Emily Van Vliet, an electrical engineering and communication arts major from Rochester, Minnesota. The Faculty Scholarship Award was presented to four graduates for maintaining perfect grade point averages throughout their college careers. The recipients were Joshua Blackburn, an electrical engineering major from Winfield, Illinois; Andrea Kneezel Costerisan, a nursing major from Decatur, Illinois; April Olson Gilfillen, an early childhood education major from Penfield, New York; and David Lindholm, a chemistry major from Burke, Virginia. Also recognized was Louis Yaklich, who earned a bachelor of arts degree in history. An inspiring figure on campus, Louis has Friedreich’s ataxia, a disease of the central nervous system. Louis has pursued his degree for seven years with amazing courage and with the support of many along the way. How does Louis want Cedarville University to remember him? “As a devout follower of Jesus Christ,” he remarked. Best wishes and congratulations to Louis as he serves our Lord! Cedarville Celebrates 111th Commencement big p ic big p ic