The INSIDER - VOLUME 18 SPRING/SUMMER 2022

To begin the 2022 Commencement Activities, Texas College hosted the 2022 Baccalaureate Service virtually on Friday, May 6. The baccalaureate service, a centuries - old tradition in higher education, affords graduates one final opportunity for spiritual development and fellowship before graduation. Rev. Dr. Clarence Kelby Heath, Pastor of the Carter Metropolitan Christian Methodist Episcopal Church in Fort Worth, Texas, served as the occasion’s speaker. To view the 2022 Baccalaureate Service, click the purple button to the right. BACCALAUREATE SERVICE

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COMMENCEMENT EXERCISE

Though in a virtual landscape, the 2022 Commencement Exercise maintained the sacred event’s formality and significance with the traditional pomp, circumstance, and academic regalia. The occasion welcomed a host of guests, including Bishop Lawrence L. Reddick, III, Chairman of the Texas College Board of Trustees and Senior Bishop of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, City of Tyler Mayor Don Warren, City Councilmember Dr. Shirley McKellar, County Commissioner and Alumna JoAnn Hampton, as well as Texas College Trustees Dr. Patricia McKenzie, Gwendolyn Collins, and Sarah Wilborn. Bishop Marvin Frank Thomas, Sr., the Presiding Prelate of the Second Episcopal District of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, delivered the commencement address. Following Bishop Thomas’ inspirational speech, the graduating students crossed over into alumni status as their degree was virtually conferred by President Dwight J. Fennell, signifying the official culmination of their successful academic endeavors. Two scholars were additionally recognized for their stellar academic performance: Irvin Yanez, Valedictorian; and Celia Polsky, Salutatorian. The College also awarded two honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degrees to Dr. Marvin Frank Thomas, Sr. and Dr. Russell O. Fuller, Sr. To view a the 2022 Commencement Exercise, click the gold button below. Additionally provided for review is the listing of the 2022 graduates.

IRVIN YANEZ 2022 VALEDICTORIAN

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CELIA POLSKY 2022 SALUTATORIAN

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