Anderson University will honor the accomplishments of more than 400 graduates during Winter Commencement at 10 a.m. on Saturday, December 4, 2021.
Following a time-honored tradition, the graduates will walk in a processional through the Anderson University Archway, up the front walk, and onto the historic Alumni Lawn.
The Commencement speaker is Dr. Gilbert Eyabi, AU faculty chair and professor of Mathematics in the Anderson University College of Arts and Sciences. Dr. Eyabi has served Anderson University in various capacities, including chair of the Faculty Development Committee, the Global Engagement Council and various search committees. During the Summer of 2021, Eyabi led a workshop in Cameroon for university professors on how to integrate technology in the classroom. Before coming to Anderson University in 2006, Eyabi lived in Germany and also his native Cameroon. He is a member of Anderson’s Dream Team and a minister with the Assemblies of God.
Anderson University President Dr. Evans Whitaker will present Tom Wilson, superintendent of Anderson District 5, with an honorary doctorate. Wilson has served as superintendent of Anderson District 5 since 2013. He has also been actively engaged in the community, serving as chairman of the board for United Way of Anderson and director of the Anderson Area YMCA board. He is also a member of the Anderson University Board of Visitors. Wilson was also awarded the Order of the Palmetto by Governor Henry McMaster and was also appointed by the governor to represent South Carolina on the National Education Commission of the States.
Music for the ceremony will be performed by faculty and students from the South Carolina School of the Arts at Anderson University..
This is the first commencement ceremony in which Anderson University will recognize its first Doctor of Physical Therapy graduates. According to Dr. Donald Peace, dean of the College of Health Professions, 28 doctor of physical therapy degrees will be awarded.
“Our inaugural class of physical therapy students have obviously developed a strong bond with each other over the past three years of this program, but we as faculty and administration have also established a strong bond with these graduates as well,” Dr. Peace said. “Without a doubt, I am confident in their skills, abilities and acumen that these new professionals have to excel in their roles as physical therapists.”
Another first for Anderson will be the first Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences (BSHS) graduate.
For the convenience of family and friends who are unable to attend Commencement, there will be a live video streaming option on the Commencement page. Please check the Commencement page for the link that will be published when it becomes available.
Persons requiring special accommodations for participation in the Processional or ceremony should notify the Office of the Registrar at (864) 231-2120 or registrar@andersonuniversity.edu as soon as possible to discuss how we can best accommodate your needs.
Information regarding Commencement will be regularly updated on the Anderson University Commencement page. Inclement weather may require the University to change the location and nature of the event. For details, visit the Anderson University Commencement page.