Gordon State College Announces Esteemed Commencement Speaker

Dr. Belle S. Wheelan, Ph.D., President of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Dr. Belle S. Wheelan, Ph.D., President of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

By: Brittany A. Tennant, Communications Specialist

Gordon State College (GSC) will hold its 45th year of undergraduate commencement ceremonies on Monday, Dec. 16, in the Student Activity Recreational Center (SARC). The processional will begin at 9:00 a.m. with a bagpipe player leading the way. Approximately 290 students are on track to receive bachelors and associate degrees. Twenty-two students will be receiving the honor of Cum Laude, three students will be receiving the honor of Magna Cum Laude and 11 students will be receiving the honor of Summa Cum Laude.

Dr. Belle S. Wheelan, President of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, will be GSC’s distinguished guest speaker. Wheelan is the first African American and the first woman to serve in this capacity. Wheelan’s career spans over 40 years and includes the roles of faculty member, chief student services officer, campus provost, college president and Secretary of Education. In addition Wheelan has received numerous awards and recognition including six honorary degrees.

Graduates should report to Alumni Memorial Hall by 8:00 a.m. The campus will be closed from 8:30-10:30 a.m. on Commencement Day, so employees can attend the ceremony. No balloons, posters, air horns or other party materials will be allowed in the ceremony.

For instructions to reserve your guest tickets, visit GSC’s commencement information.