Presenting the class of 2009!
For the class of 2009, gathered in the Wesley Mission in their gowns and colourful hoods, the day represented two or three years of lectures, evening jam or study sessions, instant noodles, hours spent at the library computers, intensive rehearsals, and painstakingly-written essays.
The day also represented two or three years of community, shared trials and triumphs, and the transformation that comes from “iron sharpening iron”.Wesley Institute’s academic lecturers, staff and directors were present to celebrate with the graduands, including Wesley Institute’s Chairman Phillip Cave and the Managing Director Dr. Greg Rough.
Bachelor of Music student, baritone Jiyoung Kim, sang The Vagabond from R.V. Williams’ “Songs of Travel” and The Desert Song/One Alone by S. Romberg. His soaring vocals were accompanied by Na Ri Kim on the piano.
Dr. Bryan Cowling of the Anglican Education Commission, and member of the Wesley Institute Academic Board gave the graduation address. He spoke on the value of Christian education, and the importance of the Institute’s Vision and Mission, reinforcing two of Wesley Institute’s Values:Integration of scholastic, professional, personal and spiritual development, and a commitment to Lifelong Learning. Dr Cowling challenged the class of 2009 to “go out and do something great”.
Asher Graieg, 2009 Valedictorian, shared with the gathering of graduands, academics, and friends and family some of his personal journey, reflecting upon the value of community in learning, and performed one of his own compositions.
Particularly special moments during the ceremony included Phillip Cave’s prayer of dedication, and Wesley Institute’s choir, led by Sada Maramatsu, performing three songs, the last of which was the traditional Wesley Institute graduation benediction. The choir surrounded the seated graduands and sang John Rutter’s ‘The Lord Bless You and Keep You’. It was a beautiful and fitting end to a day full of the old and the new.
Congratulations to the graduates who received special commendation for their efforts:
Masters Achievement Award for Counselling (Shield)
VANESSA DE SAUTY
Award given by the Counselling Faculty to the Masters student who demonstrates consistent application, academic rigour, Christian commitment and has made a significant contribution to Wesley Institute
Masters Achievement Award for Theology
SUNG-RUAL CHOI
Award given by the Theology Faculty to the Masters student who demonstrates consistent application, academic rigour, Christian commitment and has made a significant contribution to Wesley Institute
Barnabas Award
JULIE NIXON
A Counselling student who best exemplifies the attitude of servanthood and the ministry gift of encouragement amongst the Wesley Institute community
Dance Award
MATTHEW UNGER
For artistic excellence and excellence in academic achievement in dance
Drama Award
SCOTT PARKER
For artistic excellence and excellence in academic achievement in drama
Graphic Design Award
ARA ISIDRO
For design excellence and excellence in academic achievement in graphic design
Music Award
NICHOLAS LANE
For artistic excellence and excellence in academic achievement in music
Theology Award
JAMES FITZSIMONS
For excellence in academic achievement in theology
Theology in Korean Award
MONSOON KIM
For excellence in academic achievement in theology
Arts Award (Shield)
HANNAH HARRIMAN
For artistic excellence, excellence in academic achievement, personal maturity and Christian commitment, a significant artistic contribution and service to Wesley Institute
Ministry Award (Shield)
JAMES FITZSIMONS
For proficiency in practical ministry, excellence in academic achievement, personal maturity and Christian commitment, a significant contribution to Wesley InstituteZoe Heath
Managing Director’s Award
ZOE HEATH
For outstanding service to the Wesley Institute Community.
Congratulations class of 2009! Our prayers go with you, and we wish you all the best for the future. Thank you for being part of the Wesley Institute community.





