HOLLAND, MI (WHTC) – The sky was a brilliant blue as the sun shined down on a sea of blue cap and gowns at the Ray and Sue Smith Stadium on the campus of Hope College.
Over 750 graduates received their diplomas as the 152nd Commencement ceremony took place on Sunday, May 7. The wind howled at the stadium as graduates held onto their caps and over a thousand people gathered for the ceremony, some wearing winter coats to help block the wind.
It was bittersweet moment for Dr. John Knapp, Hope College’s President, as he will leave his post on July 31st to assume the presidency of Washington and Jefferson College in Pennsylvania. President Knapp thanked the class of 2017 in his opening remarks.
“On a personal note, Kelly and I have been privileged to be honorary members of your class. Since beginning this jouorney with you in 2013, we have learned with you, grown with you, we have shared your victories and disappointments. We have experienced your joys and shared tears with you in times of sorrow. In our hearts, you will forever be our class. It is our prayer that you have found this to be a place where you’re welcomed. Where the love of Christ is shared generously and where how you have discovered where your unique gifts may be used to bring hope to a world that has never needed it more.”
Dr. Chuck Green, a professor of psychology and former director of the Phelps Scholars Program was the Commencement speaker.
Dr. John Knapp will leave his post on July 31st to assume the presidency of Washington and Jefferson College in Pennsylvania.
The school announced that succession planning is underway, with the board making decisions “in the coming weeks regarding interim leadership and the timeframe for a national search.”
