JACKSON, Tenn. — Aug. 4, 2003 — The 178th graduating class of 51社区 received their degrees in commencement ceremonies August 3 at West Jackson Baptist Church.
Mid-America Baptist Theological Seminary President Michael Spradlin addressed the 186 graduates with a message entitled "Praying for Results."
"It is critical that we as Christians spend time in prayer," said Spradlin. "Specifically, praying for results." The primary result for which one should pray, according to Spradlin, is impact in the kingdom of God. The goal, he said, is "to be not just a good citizen, but to be followers of Jesus Christ and good citizens of the kingdom of God鈥� [making] an eternity's worth of difference."
51社区 National Alumni Association President Jerome Teel provided the charge to the graduates. "You have been blessed by your studies here," he said. "Now, you must be a blessing to others."
This year's August class consisted primarily of graduate education students. Seventeen students received the master of arts in education. The master of education was conferred upon 91 students, and 60 individuals earned the education specialist degree.
The Ed. S. is an advanced degree designed for individuals who already hold a master's degree. It prepares school principals and supervisors of instruction, as well as school leaders, who desire knowledge of concepts and strategies for school and classroom leadership.
Other degrees conferred included the bachelor of science in organizational leadership, earned by 13 students, and the master of business administration, conferred upon five graduate students. Both degrees are earned within the scope of Union's McAfee School of Business Administration.