Poplar Bluff, Missouri - Three Rivers College packed the Black River Coliseum to celebrate the institution’s newest graduating class on Sunday, May 18. The ceremony saw the awarding of over 550 associate degrees and certificates this year.
Political analyst and former press secretary to Governor Mitt Romney, Kevin Madden, gave the keynote address at the event. In his speech, Madden encouraged the graduates to choose not only academic excellence but also great character.
“Your graduation today is an achievement. You have embraced your God-given talent for learning. You have sought and found greater wisdom, wisdom granted upon you as a gift from our Creator,” said Madden. “But, how you choose to use these gifts will reveal your character…remember, ‘Talent is a gift. Character is a choice.’”
Musical guests “Geron Davis and Kindred Souls” out of Nashville, Tennessee, performed “I Will Sing” and “God Bless America” prior to Madden’s remarks. Other speakers included Randy Grassham, Chair of the Board of Trustees for Three Rivers; Dr. Devin Stephenson, President of Three Rivers College; and State Representative Todd Richardson.
“Each candidate today is part of an historic year at Three Rivers, and we say thank you for helping us reach this milestone,” said Stephenson, during the ceremony’s opening remarks. “The experiences that you have had at Three Rivers have enabled you to learn new things, to hone your skills and to enter a job market with great qualities and qualifications.”
This year marks the 46th anniversary of the college’s first commencement ceremony since its founding in 1966. Since then, Three Rivers has served over 100,000 students from its degree, transfer, and career development programs. Registration is currently open for Summer and Fall classes at Three Rivers. To learn more about taking classes, or to schedule a registration day, call 573-840-9605.
Three Rivers College is committed to contributing to the quality of life in Southeast Missouri with quality, affordable higher education opportunities and community services that support and encourage the economic, civic, and cultural vitality of the region. For more information about college and workforce programs and upcoming events, visit trcc.edu.
