October 25, 2020
Columbia College celebrated the accomplishments of their 2020 May and August graduates during an in-person commencement ceremony held on October 23, 2020 at Segra Park. The group included graduates receiving a bachelor’s or master’s degree from the College’s undergraduate, graduate, evening, and online programs.
The commencement speaker for this year’s ceremony was Lou Kennedy, CEO and Owner of Nephron Pharmaceuticals Corporation. In her address, which included encouraging the next generation of female leaders, Kennedy remarked “It is important that as you make your way to the top, you make room for others to rise with you.”
Newly appointed President, Dr. William T. “Tom” Bogart addressed the graduates stating, “This is a huge celebration and we’re excited to be able to have the special day for the whole Columbia College family. We’re embracing the awkward, until we get back to normal.” He continued, “Since my arrival, albeit a short time ago, I am impressed with your commitment to the Columbia College mission, for continuously displaying each of our four C’s: Courage, Commitment, Confidence and Competence. Your hard work, faith and perseverance has not gone unnoticed. Take in the moment to reflect on the hard work you put in to get here.”
Dr. Bogart became Columbia College’s twentieth president in October of this year. Prior to joining the College, he served as President of Maryville College, of Maryville, Tennessee from 2010-2020.