Students donned their caps and gowns posing in photos with family, faculty, and friends during Olivet University’s 2013 Commencement ceremony held in San Francisco on Friday June 28, 2013. 

The ceremony opened with the procession of faculty and administrative leaders.  University President Dr. Tracy Davis delivered a warm welcome and conferred an honorary doctorate degree to commencement speaker John Langlois, a Member of the International Council of the World Evangelical Alliance. 

In his commencement address, Langlois offered advice to the graduating class saying "trust the Lord to guide you."

"These words have guided me ever since.  Life is a pilgrimage; we don't know what will happen from one day to the next day," said Langlois.

Langlois continued speaking on the importance of time while praising Olivet for its tradition of Christian foundations.

"But one thing is certain, we are sure of God's grace presence and guidance… Make everyday of your life count for eternity.  Time is valuable, value it. Make the most of it, make use of the opportunities you have," added Langlois. 

"Life is short and only one will ultimately count…Be proud of this university which has instilled good principles and ethics into you.  This university is in that proud tradition of Christian foundation.  Be proud of your heritage here at Olivet."

"Above all I pray that in difficulty and disappointments you'll experience, that you'll have in your hearts the peace of God that surpass all human understanding," said Langlois.

After the commencement address, the ceremony continued with the conferring of the degree and presentation of the graduates. Olivet University awarded Bachelor of Arts, Master of Divinity, Master of Arts, Master of Business Administration, and Doctor of Ministry.

The presentation of the graduates invited University president Dr. Tracy Davis and College deans to hood and award diplomas for the graduating Class of 2013.  In addition, Olivet University awarded Doctor of Ministry degrees this year.  Zinzendorf School of Doctoral Studies Co- Presidents Dr. William Wagner and Dr. Joseph Ray Tallman hooded the doctoral graduates. President Davis delivered to the students an official pronouncement of their graduation. 

The commencement was streamed live online for viewers who were unable to attend the event in person.   The audience watched a special video slideshow presentation of graduates who completed their academic program online.  Participants and guests were invited to attend a special reception following the ceremony.