On Saturday, May 3, Samford University’s School of the Arts and Howard College of Arts and Sciences celebrated its spring graduates with a joint commencement ceremony at 9 a.m. in the Pete Hanna Center. Howard College awarded 226 degrees and the School of the Arts awarded 114. The combined event continued a tradition of academic unity and reflected Samford’s commitment to faith, learning and service.
University President Beck A. Taylor presided over the ceremony. Degrees were presented by senior associate provost Marci Johns, with names announced by Dana Basinger, assistant dean of Howard College. The ceremony also included an invocation by Howard College Dean Dawn McCormack, a scripture reading by associate professor and executive director of Christian Ministry Scott L. Guffin and the alma mater led by director of the Samford Worship Collective Jonathan Rodgers. School of the Arts Dean Lance Beaumont offered the benediction.
The keynote address was delivered by Sharon Lawhon, a longtime faculty member of the School of the Arts who teaches voice and conducts the University Chorale. Lawhon, who joined Samford in 1994, has taught at music institutes across North America and Europe and was honored with the George Macon Memorial Teaching Award in 2006.
Lawhon spoke about the journey each graduate had taken to reach this day, sharing her own reflections as she drives down Shades Mountain each morning and gives thanks for the beauty that surrounds her. She reminded graduates of the importance of noticing life’s small blessings, invoking Louis Armstrong’s iconic song, “What a Wonderful World,” as a symbol of hope and promise. “Today, let us embrace that spirit together,” she said.
Lawhon celebrated the students’ achievements, acknowledging the perseverance, late nights, sacrifices and support systems that made the day possible. “Each of you has a story—stories of late nights spent studying, moments of triumph after overcoming obstacles and the unwavering support of those around you,” she said. She encouraged graduates to recognize their unique place in creation, noting that just as rivers flow and trees stand tall, each person plays a vital role in the larger tapestry of humanity.
Drawing from her own experience, Lawhon spoke movingly about her battle with cancer and the importance of human connection. She described the steadfast support of her husband, the kindness of her colleagues and students and the care of her medical team. “Cherish these connections and be intentional in nurturing them,” she told the graduates. “You will find that the relationships we cultivate carry us through and enrich our experiences during both difficult and joyous moments.”
In closing, Lawhon urged the graduates to go forward with hope, gratitude and purpose. “You are equipped not just with a diploma but with the capacity to make a real difference in the world,” she said. “Take pride in who you are and the path you choose. The future is bright and filled with possibilities and it is yours to create.”
Several outstanding graduates were recognized during the ceremony. Annie Kelley received the Velma Wright Irons Award, presented to the graduating senior with the second highest GPA across all of Samford’s undergraduate schools. James Jefferson, Annie Kelley and Millie Palmer were honored with the John C. Pittman Spirit Award, which celebrates students who exemplify a serious commitment to academics, a devout Christian faith, personal wellness and active engagement in campus life.
In a historic moment for the university, Langston Strawbridge was presented with the Bell Tower Award. Traditionally awarded at the discretion of the university president to individuals for noteworthy service or achievement, the Bell Tower Award was given for the first time to a graduating student. Strawbridge was recognized for his leadership in founding the Birmingham-Southern Student Advisory Council and helping establish Samford’s new Transfer Students Association.
The Class of 2025 leaves Samford University equipped not only with knowledge, but with character and a commitment to serve. Their accomplishments were celebrated with a spirit of gratitude, hope and joyful anticipation for the contributions they will make in the world.
