2003 Miracle Yearbook

CROSSING OVER Graduate Kimberly Edlund walks across the platform with her diploma in hand. On May 10,668 seniors walked across the platform ofthe Jeremiah Chapel and received their diplomas,graduating from Cedarville University to the sound of cheers and applause from their family and friends — after all the names had been announced,ofcourse. Graduation day started early in the morning for the seniors as they congregated in the Athletic Center by9a.m.to ensure that they their gowns,hoods,and caps were on correctly. The class members then assembled in their seats in the stands, making sure that everyone was in the correct order. After prayer and a few last minute instructions, the soon-to-be-former students made their way from the gymnasium to the chapel and filed into the pews,allowing the ceremony to begin. Dr. Matson led the chapel in singing Cedarville's alma mater,and the seniors listened to their class verses. Dr. Dixon then came to the pulpit to speak to the class on those verses. He instructed the seniors to"number their days," as the Bible commands,always recognizing that every day is a gift from God and living each day as ifit could be their last. Dr. Wood and Dr. Estes then began the process ofannouncing each senior's name as the graduating class marched across the stage. The seniors received their diplomas,as well as a special Bible from the University. At the conclusion ofthe names,the chapel erupted into applause, and the senior class received a standing ovation from all those present. Dr. Dixon then presented several special awards,including an Honorary Doctor- ate ofTheology for Reverent Alistair Begg and the President's Awards for Joel Estes and Jyoti Philip. After the conclusion ofthe ceremony,the seniors found their family and friends waiting for them outside the Dixon Ministry Center. As rain clouds loomed overhead,they congratulated one another and received congratulations, marking the end oftheir days as Cedarville students. SPRING SEMESTER 297