Belana's graduation

We arrived home last evening from a nine day trip to the northwest. The occasion that inspired the trip was Belana's graduation from Saint Mary's University in Lacey, Washington. Majoring in biology, she was the first of our grandchildren to have received a college degree.   

The ceremony took place in the Marcus Pavilion and began at 10:00 AM. Our party arrived a hour early ensuring us good seating. 

The graduates were mustered across the quad in the Old Main building, then moved outside in order past the Christus statue and down the long stairs.

Once across the quad area they entered the back of the pavilion.

We were very excited, and when we finally spotted Belana we cheered. I got some great pictures of her. I think there were over 300 students that got degrees. 

Boyfriend on the left.

I really enjoyed the speeches given. Of great interest were the honorary Doctorate degrees awarded to Barbara and Virgil Clarkson and Abbot Neal Roth.

The University President said, "The clarksons and Abbot Neal exemplify many Benedictine values, most importantly the significance of community.Over their lifetimes they have instilled a true sense of community in the greater South Sound region. We are all enriched by their decades of service and we remain thankful for their enduring leadership." Each of these persons had done so much for the underprivileged.  

The underlying message of the graduation ceremony, in my opinion, was that of obtaining uplifting values through education, and upon personal future success in being of service to others.

What a great day it was for all of us.