GREENEVILLE – Tusculum University recently celebrated the contributions of faculty and staff members and the promise of students during a special tradition-rich ceremony that highlights the higher education institution’s motto “Sit Lux,” or “Let There Be Light.”
Kevin Watson, second from the right, recognized, left to right, Dr. Scott Hummel, Jerry Ricker and Dr. Robert Gall.
The annual Lantern Festival has its roots in the motto and is an emotional and heartfelt ceremony for everyone involved.
Soon-to-be-graduates from multiple majors awarded pins to honor and thank faculty and staff members who made the biggest impact on their journey as Tusculum students. They were also able to recognize a fellow student who they believe exemplifies the Tusculum spirit and will carry on the university’s tradition.
Twenty-one seniors honored at least one person at the festival. Students were able to choose one or two faculty members, and most students also chose an undergraduate student.
One senior, Kevin Watson, celebrated fellow student Jerry Ricker with a lantern, the event’s namesake and symbolic representation of passing the torch.
“Jerry and I worked together during Tusculum’s Upward Bound and Upward Bound Math and Science Summer Academy,” Swanson said. “As a commuter, it felt a bit different living on campus during the academy, but Jerry was here to welcome me. I quickly took note of his work ethic. It will always be a memorable experience working with Jerry.”
Watson also gave pins to Dr. Scott Hummel, Tusculum’s president, and Dr. Robert Gall, assistant dean of the Social Sciences Division.
Angela Sanchez, second from the right, honored, left to right, Dr. Harold Branstrator, Cheyenne Hewitt and Trea King.
Another senior, Angela Sanchez, recognized Trea King, the Tusculum dance coach, with a pin.
“It is truly an honor to speak today about someone who has had an immeasurable impact on my personal journey at the university,” Sanchez said. “When I first started as a freshman, I had nothing but a dream and a lot of uncertainty. Coach Trea believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself, standing by my side through every challenge and giving me support I didn’t even know I needed.”
Sanchez also awarded a pin to Dr. Harold Branstrator, associate professor of management, and gave a lantern to student Cheyenne Hewitt.
Twenty-five faculty and staff members were honored at the event, as well as 19 undergraduate students. The graduating students spoke highly about each of them.
The Lantern Festival is one of the many ways Tusculum celebrates graduates and the people who helped them along their journey.
“This event reminds me just how well Tusculum University does at not just providing access to college but also access to graduation,” Dr. Hummel, Tusculum said. “Many of the students who walk across the stage are there because they have support from family, faculty and staff. This is evidence of those who really invest in our students.”
Chuck Sutton, vice president of student affairs and retention, commended all the students, faculty and staff in attendance.
“The Lantern Festival leaves a lasting impact, reminding us how special each of our students is and the meaningful connections we continue to build here at Tusculum.”
More information about the university is available at www.tusculum.edu.