Buies Creek, N.C.—Campbell University’s School of Education held its spring convocation and commissioning service on Friday, Feb. 11. The service commissions seniors to service and recognizes alumni and friends of Campbell who have made outstanding contributions to the school and their professions. A total of 92 seniors were commissioned at the service.
Duplin County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Austin N. Obasohan, delivered the keynote address. A native of Nigeria, Obasohan acknowledged the effort and determination the students invested in their education.
“You have worked so hard to get here. This great University has equipped you with the knowledge and skills to meet the challenges of the 21st century and you embark on a journey of service,” he said. “The career you’ve chosen is more of a calling than a profession, it is a Great Commission. Our communities need you, the world needs you and may God’s will be done in your lives.”
Established in 1985, the Campbell University School of Education provides undergraduate programs in birth to kindergarten, elementary, middle grades, secondary and special education, psychology and social work. Master’s level programs are also offered in teaching, counseling and school administration.
As part of the annual convocation service, the school recognizes outstanding students in each of its disciplines, as well as outstanding alumni. Receiving the award for Outstanding Social Work Student was Kristin Michele Whatley of Goldsboro, N.C. Kassandra Uta Sheppard, of Raleigh, N.C., earned the Outstanding Psychology Student Award and Haley Patricia Nash, of Menifee, California, received the Outstanding Professional Education Student award.
Susan L. Morrow, who is the choral director at Harnett Central Middle School in Angier, N.C., received two degrees from Campbell, a Bachelor of Arts in music in 2000 and a Master of Education in elementary education with certification in Gifted Education in 2007. She was recognized as the School of Education Graduate of the Last Decade Alumna.
Former Vice President for Business and Treasurer of Campbell, Dr. James Ellerbe was honored by the school for Lifetime Achievement. Ellerbe, a resident of Clayton, also served as Superintendent of Schools for Johnston County and held several positions in the North Carolina Department of Community Colleges prior to coming to Campbell.
“Each year, it is thrilling to see the excitement of new and transitioning students and seniors,” said Dr. Karen Nery, Dean of the School of Education. “We focus on developing skills that prepare our graduates to be leaders in their professional lives and also to be servant leaders in their communities.”
Photo Copy: Dr. Austin N. Obasohan, superintendent of the Duplin County Schools, speaks at Campbell University’s School of Education convocation on Friday, Feb. 11. (Photo by Bennett Scarborough)