Truett To Recognize Graduates at Friday Ceremony

by Lori Fogleman, director of media relations, (254) 710-6275

Baylor University's George W. Truett Theological Seminary will begin a new tradition on Friday.

For the first time in the seminary's 12-year history, Truett graduates will be recognized at their own commencement ceremony at 6 p.m. Friday, May 12, in the Paul W. Powell Chapel.

A reception will follow the service in the Paul and Katy Piper Great Hall.

"Truett is such a close-knit community between faculty and students that we feel it will add to our spirit to have our own commencement," said Dr. Paul W. Powell, dean of Truett Seminary. "It's been our practice to have a Baccalaureate service on the Friday before graduation, and our students felt that service was really the more important of the two ceremonies. Through our own commencement, we can combine both into a more personal and meaningful service for our students and our faculty."

Powell will welcome the graduates and their families, while Baylor President John M. Lilley will confer degrees on 29 students who will receive the master of divinity degree; eight students who will receive dual degrees in divinity and music, social work and education; two students who will receive the master of theological studies degree; and two who will receive their doctor of ministry degree.

Lilley will be assisted by Powell and Dr. David E. Garland, associate dean for academic affairs and The William M. Hinson Professor of Scriptures at Truett.

The honor of bearing the mace has been given to Dr. Milton Cunningham, coordinator of special projects at Baylor.

Garland will present several awards during graduation, including the Outstanding Student Preaching Award for Spring 2006, the 2005-06 Zondervan Greek Award and the Outstanding Student Award for Spring 2006.

Students also will honor a Truett faculty member with the "Professor of Choice" award.

Dr. William M. Pinson Jr., executive director emeritus of the Baptist General Convention of Texas and a distinguished visiting professor at Baylor, will present the message to the graduates on "Freedom in Christ: What a Wonderful Opportunity/Responsibility."

Each graduate will be presented with a New American Standard Bible, provided by a Dr. Robert G. Lambeth, president of The Lockman Foundation of La Habra, Calif.

For more information, contact Truett Seminary at (254) 710-3755 or go to https://www.baylor.edu/truett.