PHILIPPI, W.Va.—May 30, 2020—Alderson Broaddus University hosted the University’s first-ever virtual commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 30, at 1:00 pm. Alderson Broaddus recognized 125 members of the Class of 2020 across the world, receiving associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees. 

For a complete list of our graduates, click here: ab.edu/graduate-listing/

During the May 30 ceremony, members of Alderson Broaddus Class of 2020 and their friends and families were invited to gather together online as the University leadership recognized them and conferred their degrees. 

“Under these unique and unprecedented circumstances, we proudly honor and celebrate the accomplishments of talented and hardworking students,” said President Dr. James “Tim” Barry. “Alderson Broaddus University is dedicated to graduating successful, civic-minded individuals who will apply their skill and knowledge to improving our world.”

The ceremony featured a slide show of submitted candid photos from the Class of 2020, greetings from President Barry, and remarks by Mary Griffith, student government president, and Alex Shaffer, senior class president. Dr. Joan Propst ’79, provost and executive vice president for academic affairs, read the names of the graduates. The ceremony concluded with a recording of the Alma Mater and a benediction led by Chaplain Carl W. Gittings’64.

President Barry left friends and families with a message of thanks. “Thank you for allowing Alderson Broaddus the privilege of teaching and nurturing your graduate. We thank you with sincere appreciation for the sacrifices you and others have made to make this day possible.”

Among the graduating class, representing eight countries and 19 states, three students earned their master’s degrees in anatomy. The Class of 2020 is a generation prepared to serve out the AB mission as well-rounded, responsible citizens contributing greatly to society.

Alderson Broaddus decided to postpone the traditional, in-person ceremony scheduled for May 10, due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. The University is committed to providing opportunities to invite the Class of 2020 back for in-person celebrations when public health guidelines allow.

About Alderson Broaddus University

Alderson Broaddus University is an independent institution of higher learning, committed to serving the region as an academic, cultural, and religious resource, with programs based on a liberal arts foundation. 

The mission of AB is to provide students with the highest qualityeducation, striving to prepare students to succeed in their chosen disciplines and to fulfill their roles in a diverse society as well-rounded and responsible citizens.

Since its founding in 1871, AB has been a leader and innovator in higher education, with accolades in the health and natural sciences. Alderson Broaddus University stands out as one of the most innovative health education providers in Appalachia, pioneering the nation’s first baccalaureate physician assistant program of its kind in 1968 and a post-baccalaureate physician assistant master’s degree program in 1993, and West Virginia’s first four-year Nursing program in 1945.

AB islocated on a historic hilltop in Barbour County in Philippi, West Virginia. The University is rooted in historic and continuing relationships with the American Baptist Churches in the U.S.A. and the West Virginia Baptist Convention.

For more information about AB, visit www.ab.edu.