The College of Fine Arts and Communications’ Department of Art and Department of Design held a joint convocation on Friday, April 26 in recognition of the 196 graduates who have recently completed their undergraduate or graduate programs.
The ceremony, which began at 8:00 a.m., was held in the de Jong Concert Hall and keynoted by Mark Graham, Professor of Art and Area Head, Art Education. Two graduates, alumnus Scott Eckern, Academic Vice President Brent Webb and Dean Stephen Jones, all made additional remarks. “Was the climb worth the walk?” Graham asked the graduates present at the ceremony. “The walk was worth the walk. A person who does not have anything to believe in is without energy. When you have the energy of faith in you, your steps become firmer and your look becomes brighter. You are ready to love, to understand, to help and to work. “ Graham encouraged the graduates to cherish the efforts they have made and will continue to make, as they continue to make their dreams become a reality. Likewise, Samuel Carpenter, a BFA Studio Arts graduate, acknowledged the role that his BYU education has played in making his dreams a reality. “I have a gift stirring inside of me. I felt that those stirrings towards art meant that there was something inside transforming my life. I wanted more than just stirrings though, and I knew that I needed help in releasing my gift. My journey here in the Department of Art has been the vehicle for releasing this gift.” Scott Eckern, the college alumni representative, reminded the graduates of the values they have gained through their studies. “This is the beginning of the next chapter of your story,” he said. “How will the spirit of the Y stay with you?” In offering at least a partial answer to his own questions, Eckern suggested that it is a BYU graduates’ responsibility to find a way to stay connected and give back.
To conclude the ceremony, Dean Jones expressed his appreciation and gratitude for the teachers, parents, mentors, and students for making the College of Fine Arts and Communications what it is–an institution of learning in preparation for professional contributions and a lifetime of service to humankind.