Spring 2012 Commencement

On Saturday, May 12, 2012, one hundred and fifty-two students graduated in Philadelphia Biblical University’s spring Commencement Ceremony.  Students completed studies in traditional Undergraduate programs, Dual-Level programs, the Degree Completion program, Graduate programs, and the Bible and Israel Certificate program.
Dr. Martha E. MacCullough, a graduate of the institution from 1962 and long-time faculty member, who was celebrating her 50th reunion with other Golden Grads on the day, gave a charge to the graduates. She challenged them to take up the call of the University to Walk a Different Path as they go forth into the many vocational fields they are pursuing. She encouraged them to follow the Word of God and stay on the path no matter what.
Dr. MacCullough, who formally retires this year, was named Distinguished Professor Emeritus in honor of her years of service. She joins the University’s five other Professors Emeritus, Mr. Julius Bosco, Dr. Robert Kilgore, Dr. John Master, Dr. Robert Wenger, and Dr. Barry Yoder.
An empty seat among the faculty was covered with a black cloth and held the doctoral tam of the late Dr. O. Herbert Hirt III, former Dean of the School of Bible and Ministry, who died this spring after a battle with cancer. Senior Class Advisor, Dr. David Hard, announced that with the help of an anonymous donor, the Class Gift would be two hardwood trees to be planted along the University Walkway in memory of Dr. Hirt and Dr. Samuel Hsu, Distinguished Professor of Music, who also died during this academic year.
Mr. Kile Smith ’80 was named Alumnus of the Year for his achievements in the world of music composition. Mr. Smith’s compositions are praised for their emotional power, direct appeal, and strong voice. His music has been performed by orchestras around the world.  In addition to working as a composer, Mr. Smith is a radio host and regular contributor to the Broad Street Review. He is on the adjunct faculties of Philadelphia Biblical University and Temple University.
Following musical performances by the University Chorale and singing of the Senior Class Hymn, the final musical piece of the ceremony was the singing of the University Hymn, “Great is Thy Faithfulness.” The words of this hymn send out the graduating class each December and May from the University, reminding them of God’s faithfulness in the past and His hand of provision for the future: “Morning by morning new mercies I see; / All I have needed Thy hand hath provided—/ Great is Thy Faithfulness, Lord, unto me!”