BELTON, TX – The University of Mary Hardin-Baylor held commencement services for the Fall 2022 semester today at the Bell County Expo Center. This was the university's 166th graduating class, and an estimated 461 students were awarded degrees, including 320 baccalaureate degrees, 106 master's degrees, and 35 doctoral degrees.
UMHB President Dr. Randy O'Rear commended students for their dedication and determination to finish their degrees and celebrated the accomplishments of the class of 2022.
"It is a joy to be together, surrounded by the family members and friends who have encouraged and made sacrifices so these graduates could cross this stage today. Fifty-six of you are the first in your family to graduate from college. Eleven of you are graduating with a perfect 4.0," he said. "Over your time at UMHB, your main purpose has been to acquire the knowledge necessary to do well in your classes and earn your degrees. You were also encouraged to make the most of your time with us, whether in the relationships you formed, the organizations and activities you participated in, or how you served your classmates and community. Your time with us has been well spent, and yes, it has also been purposeful." He added, "I want to challenge you as your next steps in life begin, whether you are teaching, entering into business, engineering, accounting, practicing in health care, or attending graduate school, whatever your next steps are, take them on purpose, for the kingdom of God."
Student awards given during the ceremony included the Provost Medal for highest overall GPA, which was awarded to 11 students who each graduated with perfect 4.0-grade point averages: Rachel Coday of Greenville, Julia Dewitt of Temple, Meghan Ditty of Fort Worth, Tyler Fowler of Mineral Wells, McKennah Harden of Boerne, Sarah Luper of Waco, Allison Pierce of Fort Worth, Tatum Stover of Forney, Jodie Taylor of Elgin, Mackenzie Vela of Harlingen, and Hannah Wolfe of Murphey.
The Loyalty Cup, awarded to the student most representative of the university's ideals, traditions, and spirit, was given to Thomas Henderson of Keller. Thomas loves UMHB and was actively involved in campus life, UMHB 33, served as the president of Student Foundation, and received the Commandant's Trophy from the US Marine Corps. The Honors Program Magna Cum Laude recipient was Madison Lewis of Forney.
