Megan Garkie
  • Healthcare Management
  • Class of 2017
  • Quincy, IL

Megan Garkie conferred with a BS in Individualized Major at Culver-Stockton College 161st Commencement Exercises

2017 Jun 1

Megan Garkie of LaGrange, MO, graduated with a BS degree in Individualized Major.

Culver-Stockton College proudly presented diplomas to nearly 225 graduates Saturday, May 13, 2017 during the 161st Annual Commencement Ceremony, which was held on the Culver-Stockton College campus.

Thanks to sunny, spring weather commencement was held outside on the quadrangle, overlooking the Mississippi River. Over 225 degrees were conferred, including undergraduates and graduates. The record breaking ceremony saw 12 honors students graduate and 17 MBA students hooded, the most since the program was launched in 2013.

Grant Thompson of Rossmoor, Calif., was selected to represent the Class of 2017 as the student speaker. Thompson earned a degree in finance, and in his address urged fellow graduates to remember they will succeed because they are C-SC graduates.

"What sets us apart is that for the past four years, Culver-Stockton College has molded us to undoubtedly change the world. You see, here at Culver-Stockton, we have been extremely fortunate to have the most influential people pushing us to achieve both excellence and success as a graduate," encouraged Thompson. "A foundation is built on placing the success of the student's first, by going the extra mile."

Maureen Kahn, CEO of Blessing Health System, was the keynote speaker. Kahn joked during the start of her address she was advised to keep her speech short and sweet, which caused graduates to burst into cheers. The focus of her address was storytelling, and each situation you live through is an opportunity for growth and to share with others. "Your story is about your experience and who you are, not who others think you are," said Kahn. "Don't stop learning and don't stop telling your story." During commencement Dr. Kelly M. Thompson, President, and Dr. Dan K. Silber, Dean of the College, presented Kahn with an honorary Doctorate of Health Care Administration.

As the Class of 2017 prepares for the next stage of life, they can remember their time on "the Hill" helped make them who they are today. Thanks to their experiences inside and outside the classroom, they know they are ready for anything. Like the graduates before them, these graduates can go into the world knowing they are forever Wildcats.