Congratulations to the Graduating Class of 2011!
Saturday 5 May will be a day to remember for the Wesley Institute graduates of the class of 2011. A mix of emotions filled the auditorium as the Wesley Mission theatre filled with nearly 100* men and women at the completion of their degrees in Dance, Drama, Graphic Design, Music, Education, Counselling and Theology, in addition to their proud families and friends - numbering over 550 guests - eager to celebrate their achievements.
For many, this day was the end of years of late nights, rehearsals, performances, presentations and perhaps more assessments than our graduates would care to remember! As is the case when undertaking anything of great significance, our students would have experienced many high points throughout their study and, more likely than not, a few low points as well. They have invested a wealth of time, commitment, perseverance and sacrifice, and seen God’s faithfulness through it all.
The Board of Directors, faculty and staff of Wesley Institute were proud to stand beside our graduates in celebration of this great achievement, and wish them well as they begin the next chapter of their lives.
The singing of the National Anthem opened the ceremony, led by Bachelor of Music student, Hafren Jones. Managing Director, Dr. Greg Rough, followed and warmly welcomed the graduands and audience. Professor Rosemary Johnston, member of Wesley Institute’s Board of Directors, provided the graduation address, focusing on the calling of Samuel from 1 Samuel 3: 1-10, and how we are all called to make a difference.
The valedictory address was presented by the Valedictorian for the class of 2011, Winifred James, graduate of the Master of Teaching (Primary). She offered some humorous examples from her own experience as a teacher, inviting laughter from the audience. She also encouraged her classmates to persevere and remain strong in the Lord, through whom anything is possible.
The Wesley Institute choir, conducted by Dr Sadaharu Maramatsu and accompanied by Na Ri Kim, provided further highlights throughout the ceremony, performing: Great Is Thy Faithfulness (T. Chisholm/W. Runyan); Fields of Gold, (G.M. Sumner); God! Eternal, Always and Forever (Gregg Sewell); and John Rutter’s The Lord Bless You and Keep You.
Of course the highlight of the ceremony for each graduate was the moment they stepped across the stage to receive their testamur, and the realisation that the years of hard work and dedication were all worth it.
Wesley Institute graduates are equipped to bless their communities through their vocational calling. They have persevered - developing their craft, honing their skills, and growing in their academic profession. But the testamur they receive represents so much more than their knowledge in a particular field. We trust our graduates leave the Institute with a personal and spiritual maturity, the foundation of a solid Christian education integrated into their worldview and friendships that will last a lifetime.
On behalf of Wesley Institute, congratulations to all our graduates! We wish you all the best in your future plans, and look forward to continuing our relationship with you as you join our alumni network!
Click here to view a photo gallery of the graduation.
We would also like to congratulate the graduates who received special commendation for their efforts. View awards here.
*Not all graduates were able to attend the ceremony. The class of 2011 includes 181 graduates, marking one of the largest graduations in Wesley Institute’s history.
