The places our grads go
If you are searching for a good graduation gift, Dr. Seuss has a book entitled “Oh, the Places You’ll Go!” One of my favorite quotes from this book reads: “You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose.”
Seniors at Davis & Elkins College are less than a month from the milestone day of graduation. Along with the sad realization that their time on the D&E campus is drawing to a close, they are energized by the opportunities the world is dangling before them. As a result of their time here, they are equipped to do whatever they choose to make a difference in this world and the lives of God’s children. As I talk with our soon-to-be graduates, I am reminded over and over again how fortunate I am to work where I do. Along with the faculty and staff of this unique institution, we have the privilege to devote our lives to transforming the lives of others. That is a true blessing!
I recently received a partial list of the plans of our seniors following graduation. I am in awe of the talent and dedication of D&E students. Anyone that is concerned about the up and coming generation of leaders needs to spend some time on this campus. The following is a sampling of graduate schools and employment opportunities that await our newest graduates:
• Nebraska School of Dentistry.
• West Virginia University, Doctorate in Physical Therapy.
• James Madison University, Masters in Exercise Science.
• The University of Mississippi, Medicinal Chemistry.
• Human Rights Commission in Washington, D.C.
• Louisiana State University, MFA in Ceramics with a teaching assistantship.
• West Virginia University, Masters in Health Sciences.
• Lipscomb University, Masters in Exercise and Nutrition Science.
• Belmont University, Masters in Sports Administration.
• Mississippi State University School of Veterinary Medicine.
• West Virginia University School of Pharmacy.
• West Virginia Division of Natural Resources, Botanical Technician.
• Officer Candidate School, Navy.
• Ohio State University, Masters in Finance.
• Concordia University, Montreal, Canada Masters in Investment Finance.
• Elon University Law School.
• West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine.
• Disney College Program, Disney World.
• Peace Corps.
• Temple University, MFA in Dance with a Teaching Assistantship.
• WVU RN to Master of Science in Nursing.
In this abbreviated list are the values that are central to Davis & Elkins College. The life journey of our students that brought them to these mountains now continues across our country and abroad. They are investing themselves in health care, human rights, science, the arts, law and justice, the environment, business, community service, education and service to our country through the armed forces. Our students make us proud!
“You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose.” We will treasure a few additional weeks with our seniors, and celebrate with them on their graduation day.
Their life journeys are filled with hope and promise. Davis & Elkins College is the tie that binds, and will always bind us together. The journey continues. …
Chris A. Wood is president of Davis & Elkins College.