Story By: John Limbaugh
The university celebrated its 126th annual Founder’s Day last Tuesday at 11 a.m. This year’s senior class got to don their graduation robes for the first time. Following the same path as their predecessors, the seniors marched across Main Quad to Palmer Hall for the convocation ceremony.
This year’s theme was A Montevallo Moment. In his opening speech, President John Stewart said the theme represents how the Montevallo family is held together by their experiences and moments at UM.
“A Montevallo Moment may come from personal success or recognition, or it may be the smallest act of kindness that leads to lifelong friendships on our campus,” he said.
This year’s keynote address was delivered by UM alum Blake Hudson, a 2002 UM graduate who is now the dean and a professor of Law at Sanford’s Cumberland School of Law. Hudson said that the moments he had at Montevallo were transformative in his life.
Students and staff were recognized for their accomplishments during their time at the university. Among them were Dr. Ashley Wurzbacher, a professor of English, who was named the 2022 university scholar for her short story collection, Happy Like This.
William “Bill” Carmichael, an adjunct professor of World civilizations received received the adjunct Faculty Teaching award.
Jenny Bell, the director of Student Life was awarded the UMNAA Outstanding Staff Service Award.
Dr. Greg Samuels, an associate professor of elementary and secondary education, was bestowed the UMNAA Outstanding Commitment to Teaching Award.
Claudia Harold, who graduated in 1973, was awarded the UMNAA Mary Lou Elder Williams Alumni Loyalty Award.
Founder’s Day is held on the second Tuesday of October every year. Juniors interested in participating in next year’s ceremony can order graduation gowns online. all seniors are welcome to participate.
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