On the bright afternoon of Friday, June 12, parents, and members of administration, faculty and governing board, together with students, alumni and the Class of 2009 convened at Olivet University to celebrate Commencement 2009.  The ceremony was held in Olivet University Chapel at the University's main campus in downtown San Francisco, California. 

The exercises opened with a procession of academic leaders into the University Chapel, followed by a series of warm addresses by faculty representatives celebrating the Class of 2009, as well as University President Dr. David James Randolph who delivered the Commencement Address.  Choral devotions from the Jubilee College of Music interspersed the afternoon’s events.


Guests observed a moment of silence before the main program in honor of Dr. Ralph D. Winter, who died on May 20. Master of Ceremonies Mr. Walker Tzeng, chief operating officer of Olivet University shared reflections on the life and contributions of Dr. Winter, who served as Olivet University’s Honorary Chairman in recent years.

Special Guest Dr. Thomas Schirrmacher, Director of the International Institute for Religious Freedom of the World Evangelical Alliance delivered greetings to the University community. “We hope to carry Winter’s dream as well as Olivet University does,” he said, speaking on behalf of Martin Bucer Seminary where he serves as president and professor.

In his speech titled “The Greatest Adventure,” President Dr. David Randolph exhorted the Class of 2009 to “stretch themselves to the limit for love and justice.” Addressing graduates who’d completed programs in the disciplines of theology, music, journalism, graphic design, and information technology he encouraged them to unite “deep faith and high technology to transform the world for Jesus Christ.”

Doctor of Ministry degree recipient and Class of 2009 commencement speaker Dr. Andrew Clark reminded his classmates of privilege and responsibilities of being an Olivet University graduate, including the commitment to following God. “It is a great honor to be part of the graduating Class of 2009. And now we must trust God with our lives, and He will then guide us by His perfect will,” he said. “This is the method by which we can open up a big history for God.

The 2 hour ceremony, which was broadcast live to off-campus viewers, included a special video presentation of Olivet University graduates who completed their program of studies online. Guests also enjoyed a video commemorating University’s achievement of accredited status this year.


Following the ceremony, guests enjoyed a special reception on campus to celebrate the occasion.