Westminster College Celebrates Commencement May 18

Nearly 350 students are expected to earn diplomas Saturday, May 18 during the 148th annual Westminster College commencement ceremonies.  The 2001-2002 academic year will conclude with a baccalaureate service at 10: 30 a.m. in Orr Auditorium, and commencement at 2:30 p.m. on the Senior Terrace of Old Main.

Speaking at baccalaureate is Dr. Kenneth E. Bailey, Canon Theologian of the Diocese of Pittsburgh of the Episcopal Church.  Bailey, who is a son of missionary parents stationed in Egypt, has spent most of his life in the Middle East.  He served 20 years as professor of the New Testament studies in the Near East School of Theology in Beirut, and founded the Institute for Middle Eastern New Testament Studies at the Tantur Ecumenical Institute for Theological Studies in Jerusalem.

Bailey, who has written five books and authored more than 100 articles in English and Arabic, will deliver his sermon on "Flowers from the Valley of Terror."

Speaking at commencement on "A Beautiful Word" is Elizabeth "Libby" Gibson Drinko, officer and trustee of The Elizabeth G. and John D. Drinko Charitable Foundation and the Mellen Foundation, and 1944 psychology graduate of Westminster College.  The Crafton, Pa. Native's civic involvement in the Cleveland area and continued support of the Westminster College Psychology Department reflect her long-standing interests in the field, and her deep commitment to improving the lives of children and families.

At Westminster, she has established the Gibson-Drinko Endowed Chair in Psychology, which supports traditional undergraduate education and outreach activities that include workshops for regional childcare providers and preschool educators.  The same vision of involving undergraduate students in academically meaningful community service lies at the heart of the generous support for the creation of the John and Elizabeth Drinko Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning at Westminster's new Campus Center scheduled to open in 2003.

During commencement ceremonies, Bailey will be awarded an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree, and Drinko will receive an honorary Doctor of Public Service degree.

In case of rain, commencement will be held at the Memorial Field House.  For more information, contact the Academic Dean's Office at (724) 946-7122.