On Saturday, April 6th, Ohio Christian University held its fourth commencement ceremony in Jonesboro, Georgia at the Clayton County Performing Arts Center. This is the first year at this location.
OCU President, Dr. Jon Kulaga welcomed the record crowd of nearly 1,300 students, family and honored guests declaring, “We are living in a time where Christians have never been more needed-to be out there in society being salt and light.” He further challenged them stating that “your community needs you, your city needs you and your country needs you”.
Terence Chatmon was the commencement speaker. He is President of The John Maxwell Leadership Foundation and Equip Leadership, is a published author and has held senior executive leadership roles for the Coca Cola Company, Johnson & Johnson and Citibank. Prior to his commencement address, Dr. Kulaga read from a unanimous resolution from the Faculty and Board of Trustees of OCU conferring upon Chatmon an honorary Doctor of Christian Leadership degree.
One section of note within the resolution stated:
Mr. Chatmon has served in senior executive leadership roles with Johnson & Johnson, Citibank, and Coca Cola. He has catalyzed growth at every level of these organizations through a strong transformational leadership style and his unwavering commitment to creating thriving environments.
Beyond the professional accolades, Dr. Kulaga had the following to say, “Terence exemplifies the qualities we desire for all our graduates. Whether it be leading a for-profit Fortune 50 company or an international non-profit ministry – Terence is first and foremost a man of God, who loves his wife and family, and he seeks to honor His Lord and bring value to those he is serving. People love to work with Terence because of who he is, not just because of what he knows”.
126 students earned their degrees through the campus in Georgia. In addition to President Kulaga being in attendance, Provost Hank Kelly and Associate Provost Bradford Sample were present for the commencement service. Other highlights from the service included special music performed by 2019 OCU graduate, OCU staff member, and recording artist Portia Houze, and recessional songs led by OCU staff member Dion Bryan.
A reception was held the prior evening at the OCU Morrow Campus where Georgia Regional Dean, Paula Roberson welcomed everyone to the campus and highlighted several faculty members and students for their hard work and dedication.
