By Brian Blackwell, Message Staff Writer
PINEVILLE – Standing before the May graduating class at Louisiana College, evangelist Jay Strack said there is a reason he believes America still has a chance to be great again.
“Don’t be one of those who are very fearful about the future,” he told the students during his address at Louisiana College’s 160th Commencement on May 7. “Don’t be one of those that believe America has lost its mojo and will never be great again. I believe with all my heart the Lord still has a plan for this nation and the reason is these students and these professors. You keep us optimistic about the future.”
Throughout his speech to the 101 graduates, Strack challenged them numerous times to remain passionate about Christ and follow their God-given dreams.
Receiving the award of summa cum laude – the highest awarded by the school – were Zachary Fleming, Jessica Johnson, Katelyn Persick, Mollie Stuart, Eli Sanders, Hannah Shields and Rebekah Weatherford.
Prior to Strack’s message, three graduating seniors shared just how their passion for Jesus was strengthened during their time at LC. Also recognized during the ceremony was 22-year-old David Marler, who was on pace to graduate with this classmates. However, in December 2015, Marler passed away in his sleep.
LC President Rick Brewer awarded Marler with an undergraduate degree posthumously during the ceremony.
Jim White, an LC alum, shared how Marler influenced so many through his friends, family and youth group he worked with each week.
When talking with those closest to Marler, White said “the one thing that kept coming back to me was (his) character.”
Brewer said the students who spoke during the commencement service represent the student body, the alumni and the historical foundation of Louisiana College.
“Many already have embraced the truths that my friend Jay Strack noted, as evidenced by their outstanding academic achievement and their spiritual commitments,” Brewer said. “Such students and graduates are the result of our efforts to prepare graduates and transform lives. They characterize the integration of faith in LC’s academic content and delivery.”
Honors Convocation awards
Prior to ceremony, the following students graduated and were on the Dean’s List and were award recipients at this spring’s the Honors Convocation in late April:
- Nathaniel Marcel
- Hillary Husband
- Joshua Adams
- Katelyn Persick
- Taylor Bergeron
- Autumn Kissee
- Jill Black
- Zachary Fleming
Evangelist Jay Strack encourages the students during graduation ceremonies on May 7 at Louisiana College. Louisiana College photo
The family of David Marler looks on during the May 7 graduation ceremony at Louisiana College. Marler, who was on pace to graduate with this classmates, passed away in December 2015. Louisiana College photo
