In the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic, the Class of 2020 celebrated their academic accomplishments through a virtual commencement ceremony. Though graduates and their families could not gather in person, the online celebration was a poignant recognition of their accomplishments in the face of extraordinary challenges.
President Mary K. Surridge remarked on this feat in her commencement address.
“We all know that you will go down in the history of North Park University as the students who completed their degrees despite the Covid-19 pandemic. Nothing stopped you. You have our admiration and our respect.”
President Surridge also encouraged graduates to not let these last challenging weeks define their collegiate experience.
“You have received the benefit of and contributed mightily to the broad and deep academic experience of North Park through study in your academic disciplines and engagement in service across our university, our city, our nation, and our world.”
The virtual ceremony also held a uniquely personal touch with graduates contributing from their own homes, leading the community in worship and sharing scripture readings.
Recipients of the Ahnfeldt Medallion shared personal reflections on their North Park experience. Hannah Beth Nelson, BS in mathematics and physics, recounted her opportunities for personal growth on and off-campus. “I was able to participate in orchestra, join and lead an academic club, and participate in global partnership trips.”
Aisha Abdallah, BS in nursing, expressed her gratitude, “To my nursing professors, thank you for sharing your passion for the career and for preparing me for a life of significance and service.”
Mackenzie Mahon, MDiv and MNA, also expressed her thanks to the Seminary faculty and staff, with a little humor sprinkled in, “Thank you for being the kind of people who model what it looks like to work toward justice and for also being the kind of people who would create a video dance montage just to encourage the students.”
