Harding University held its spring commencement ceremony, honoring 852 candidates for graduation, at 9 a.m., 12 p.m. and 3 p.m. on Saturday, May 9 in the University’s George S. Benson Auditorium.
During commencement, the University recognized the accomplishments of students representing 41 U.S. states and 27 nations and territories, including Mozambique, Nigeria, Panama, Spain, United Kingdom and Vietnam. The University conferred 20 degrees across its distinguished programs, demonstrating the academic success of all eight colleges.
“More than simply marking completion of a degree, commencement celebrates the calling, character and purpose our students carry into the world,” said Mike Williams, president of Harding University. “As these graduates enter the marketplace and serve in communities across the globe, they do so equipped to lead with integrity and meaningfully influence the lives of those they encounter. We are confident their Harding experience has prepared them to make a lasting difference in a world that deeply needs principled leadership and compassionate service.”
The commencement address at 9 a.m. was given by Dr. Steve and Dottie Frye, longtime theatre department leaders who will retire this summer. Having served the University since 1989, Dr. Steve Frye completes his tenure as chair of the department of theatre, director of Spring Sing and producer of Searcy Summer Dinner Theatre. Throughout his career, Frye has demonstrated a sustained commitment to excellence in teaching, production and service, influencing generations of students through both the classroom and the stage. He holds a bachelor’s degree in communication and theatre from Freed-Hardeman College, a master’s degree in theatre from the University of Memphis and a Doctor of Education from the University of Arkansas.
Dottie Frye completes her tenure as assistant professor of theatre, director of Spring Sing hosts, hostesses and ensemble, and director of the Pied Pipers, Harding’s children’s improvisational troupe, following more than 30 years of service to the University. She teaches courses in acting, directing and children’s theatre and is especially known for her work in creative dramatics and performance for young audiences. She holds a bachelor’s degree in communication from Freed-Hardeman College and a master’s degree in directing and children’s theatre from Memphis State University.
For the second ceremony of the day, at noon, the address was given by Paul Chapman, executive director of Restore Hope. Under his leadership, the Arkansas-based nonprofit has played a central role in developing the 100 Families Initiative, a nationally recognized model that brings together faith communities, nonprofits and public agencies to address complex challenges such as poverty, incarceration and foster care involvement. Chapman has led the expansion of this initiative from a small pilot effort into a movement that has served more than 10,000 Arkansans across multiple counties, with the model now being replicated in other states and internationally. His work emphasizes coordinated care, rapid response and long-term stability, helping families access the resources they need to achieve employment and self-sufficiency.
At 3 p.m., LaDonna Johnston, president and CEO of Unity Health gave the address. She has more than 35 years of experience at the Arkansas health care system consisting of four hospitals, 28 clinics and specialties, and more than 160 physicians. As an Arkansas native with a Master of Nursing Science from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and a Bachelor of Science in nursing from Harding, she is passionate about serving patients, families and communities with excellence and expertise. Ingrained in the rich Unity Health history and culture, Johnston has a heart for fostering exceptional patient care and creating a positive working atmosphere where associates can thrive and grow.
Following the address, Harding President Mike Williams recognized candidates as they were recommended by the faculty for graduation.
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