Judson University celebrated 125 students who graduated at Judson’s 86th commencement ceremonies held at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Saturday, December 11, at Herrick Chapel on the Elgin campus.
In the morning ceremonies, Judson recognized Graduate Brian McDonald of South Beloit, Ill., with the President’s Scholar Award – Adult Professional Studies Undergraduate, which recognizes the graduating senior who has demonstrated distinguished academic achievement in the context of a Christian liberal arts program and adhered consistently to Judson ideals. McDonald earned his associate degree in 2019 before taking a break and then continuing with his education at Judson to grade with a bachelor’s degree in Human Services. Throughout his time at Judson, Brian has worked as a before and after school teacher at the YMCA of Rock River Valley. Brian’s high performance at work was recognized as he received the Rising Star, Spark Plug, and Culture Champion Awards. With the completion of his bachelor’s degree in Human Services, Brian intends to go into leadership at a youth-based nonprofit where he can impact the lives of his students and develop the lives of young employees working with him.
In the afternoon program, Management graduate Eliana Sarver of Villa Park, Ill., received the President’s Scholar Award – Traditional Undergraduate. This is the university’s highest recognition for scholarship and honors the graduating senior in the traditional program who has demonstrated distinguished academic achievement in the context of a Christian liberal arts program and adhered consistently to Judson ideals. Eliana has been active in many organizations on campus from the Judson Business Society, the Judson Student, a social media intern for the Chicago Auto Show, and a finalist in two Shark Tank Competitions. Eliana has achieved the highest academic success appearing on the Dean’s List each semester as she earned a Management Degree and marketing minor.
To see Judson’s photo album from the day, visit: https://flic.kr/s/aHsmXeXzUz. You can see the full ceremony from both Commencement services on Judson’s Facebook and YouTube pages.