Bethany Students Explore, Dream, and Discover During Fall Convocation

BETHANY, W.Va. (Sept. 10, 2024) — Bethany College held its annual Fall Convocation on Thursday, Sept. 5, welcoming students, faculty, and staff back for the start of the academic year. The event featured a keynote address from distinguished alumnus Donald Blashford ‘76, who reflected on his time at Bethany and shared valuable life lessons with the current student body.

Blashford, a standout on Bethany’s soccer team and a member of the Kappa Alpha fraternity, shared how his college years shaped both his personal and professional journey. “It was fun writing this speech because it reminded me how much Bethany prepared me for life,” he said. The lessons he learned on the soccer field — teamwork, preparedness, resilience, and competitive toughness — were essential in shaping his career. His experience on the team, which won three PAC championships and earned the nickname “No Goal Patrol” for their flawless defense, played a pivotal role in his readiness for the long list of companies and advertising campaigns he would go on to lead and develop throughout his career. Blashford also highlighted the lasting legacy of his time in Kappa Alpha, urging students to appreciate the friendships they will form at Bethany. “Friendships pay you dividends for years — don’t lose the opportunity to create these relationships,” he advised.

Focusing on personal growth and professional success, Blashford encouraged students to pursue their passions and embrace challenges. “Think of yourself as the CEO of YOU,” he said. “You are in control of your own destiny. Learn to be tough, competitive, and resilient. Now is the time to start.” He motivated students to push beyond their comfort zones and explore new paths, emphasizing that true growth happens in moments of doubt.

As he concluded his remarks, Blashford stressed the importance of building strong relationships with professors and peers, while staying connected to the Bethany community. “You are part of one big Bethany family,” he said, reminding students to remain engaged with the College well beyond graduation.

During the ceremony, the College also recognized student and faculty achievements.

Dr. Danny Blair Moore, vice president of academic affairs, announced the recipient of the John R. Taylor Memorial Award in Liberal Arts, which is named in memory of John R. Taylor, ’44, professor of English emeritus at Bethany. This year’s recipient was Dr. Anna Edlund, associate professor and chair of the biology department.

Vice President and Dean of Students Gerald Stebbins announced the recipients of the Anna Ruth Bourne Award, the W. Kirk Woolery Award, and the Richard B. Kenney Freshman Leadership Award.

The Anna Ruth Bourne Award, presented each semester to the sorority group with the highest scholastic standing, was this time awarded to Phi Mu. Similarly, the W. Kirk Woolery Award, recognizing the fraternity with the top academic performance, went to Beta Theta Pi.

The Richard B. Kenney Freshman Leadership Award is given annually to a student who has demonstrated outstanding scholarship, leadership and character at Bethany in the previous year. This year’s award went to Alexander Blair ‘27.

Bethany President Dr. Jamie Caridi took a moment to recognize two outstanding members of the Bethany College community with the prestigious Presidential Faculty and Staff Awards. The Faculty Award was presented to Tammy Richmond, chair of the business department and a key figure in the development of Bethany Online’s MBA program. The Staff Award was given to Jeff Shaffer for his remarkable bravery and courageous actions during a fire emergency at the Delta Tau Delta fraternity house in November of 2023.

Fall Convocation concluded with a sense of inspiration and community as students, faculty, and staff reflected on the impactful messages and celebrated the achievements that continue to shape Bethany College.

A recording of the ceremony is available here. All photos can be viewed on Flickr.

About Bethany College

Founded in 1840, Bethany College is a private liberal arts college in Bethany, West Virginia. With a commitment to academic excellence, a strong sense of community, and a rich history of tradition, Bethany College prepares students for lifelong success through a comprehensive education that emphasizes critical thinking, leadership, and service.