Recent alumni begin new phase in life

Jan. 31, 2017 |

“During my K-12 education, I had many wonderful teachers, but there was one who really made an impact in my life,” December 2016 graduate Logan Beasley said. “This was my second-grade teacher who went above and beyond to help me succeed. She was always a kind and gentle-hearted teacher, and from that point on, I wanted to be just like her.”

On Dec. 17, 2016, Beasley crossed the Benson Auditorium stage, marking the completion of her Bachelor of Arts in early childhood education. She was one of approximately 450 graduates who received diplomas during the commencement ceremony.

“I knew I always wanted to be with kids to help them,” Beasley said. “I love the College of Education at Harding because I learned so much and have been able to observe and work with so many children.”

Beasley currently resides in Cabot, Arkansas, and is serving as a substitute teacher for White County schools.

“It’s such a wonderful feeling when you see that kid’s light bulb come on, or you see the growth over the weeks or months,” Beasley said. “It’s so rewarding even though it’s extremely hard at times.”

Graduate Lucas Curtis earned a bachelor’s in computer science and is currently working as a software developer for ABC Financial in Sherwood, Arkansas. He said his professors at Harding equipped him with the necessary skills for his career.

“My experience at Harding is something that I am so thankful for,” Curtis said. “The professors in the computer science department have done an amazing job preparing me for this career path. I was able to get a quality education and bolster my faith in God.”

Curtis said the relationships he created at Harding positively influenced him, and he expects them to last a lifetime.

“The things I am most thankful for when looking back at my time at Harding are my friends and my professors,” Curtis said. “They have both instilled in me a greater appreciation for God and all of his glory.”

The commencement ceremony included students from the College of Allied Health, College of Arts and Humanities, College of Bible and Ministry, Paul R. Carter College of Business Administration, Cannon-Clary College of Education, Carr College of Nursing, College of Pharmacy, College of Sciences and the Honors College. Errica Rivera (‘91), associate advocacy and culture director for State Auto Insurance Companies, and member of the University’s board of trustees, was the speaker for the event.

See the full list of graduates .