It’s truly my favorite time of the year – “Graduation” is upon us and our 2012 Commencement Ceremonies promise to be our best ever. I look forward to seeing all Northcentral University Team Members at these inspiring festivities, which signify an incredible milestone in the academic journeys of our outstanding students. Thank you for showing our students respect and giving them the recognition they deserve and always remember: Your hard work helps others to achieve their education goals – and fulfill their dreams.
On Friday evening, June 8, from 2:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., please join me in Prescott Valley on the third floor of our Prescott Valley campus as we welcome our graduates and their guests with light refreshments for a Poster Session, showcasing the research and creative activity of select students. There will also be an awards ceremony, including our Honor Society recognition, and the BEST of the best, the announcement of our Dissertation of the Year Award Winner!
As a special “sneak peek” for Team Members only, please join me in congratulating the following outstanding Northcentral graduate who is this year’s Dissertation of the Year Award Winner:
Milton Kabia, a PhD candidate in our Computer and Information Security specialization who won for his dissertation entitled “Contributions of Professional Certification and Information Technology Work Experience to Self-Reported Job Performance.” Kudos to Milton Kabia for a job well done!!!
And then, on Saturday morning, June 9, please join me at Tim’s Toyota Center in Prescott Valley for our Commencement Ceremonies from 10:00 a.m. until noon, followed by a joyous reception. At this very special event, we will also bestow Honorary Degrees from Northcentral University to the following exceptional people:
Kenton Jones, Yavapai County Superior Court Judge: The Honorable Kenton Jones has been a Superior Court Judge for Yavapai County since 2009. He has practiced law in Arizona for over 25 years. He is currently Trustee Emeritus of Northcentral University, having served on the Board of Trustees from 2007 until 2009 when he left the Board to assume his current position on the Bench. Judge Jones received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Northern Arizona University and a Juris Doctor from Arizona State University.
Pocahontas (Poco) Gertler (“Little Dove”), Author and Civil Rights Leader: Ms. Gertler retired after spending 26 years as a K-12 teacher. She also had a distinguished career as an Assistant Chaplain in the United States Air Force. Recently, Ms. Gertler has devoted her time to providing support and assistance to residents living on the Navajo Reservation. The scholarship fund she established has allowed students on the Navajo Reservation to continue their education at Dine College. Ms. Gertler received her Bachelor’s degree from St. Luke’s Methodist Seminary and her Master’s degree from Chestnut Hill College.
And last but not least, our keynote speaker, Chris Gardner. His inspiring story continues to move us and we’re honored to recognize his achievements and welcome him to the Northcentral University family of remarkable scholars.
Do you hear that sound? Yes indeed, it’s time to take that “amazing walk down the aisle” to the music of “Pomp and Circumstance.” The ultimate goal of our graduates is in sight. Completing their degree – reaching that once unobtainable goal – and changing their lives for the better: A new job, a new life – a time to set yet higher goals and set out on their next adventure….