Presbyterian College honored its top scholars and leaders during its annual Honors Day Convocation on Thursday, April 24, recognizing the outstanding achievements of students, faculty, and staff in a year marked by resilience, discovery, and collaboration.

Highlights of the ceremony included the announcement that Dr. Kendra Hamilton, associate professor of English and director of Southern Studies, was named the 2025 Professor of the Year. Caroline Rairigh ’25 was recognized as the Outstanding Senior. Both Hamilton and Rairigh will deliver addresses to the graduating Class of 2025 during the college’s commencement ceremony on May 10.

PC president Dr. Anita Gustafson welcomed the crowd gathered in Belk Auditorium, praising the honorees for their contributions to the college’s vibrant academic community.

“As I look around the room, I see the future of scholarship and innovation,” Gustafson said. “Our students have not simply absorbed knowledge, but have actively contributed to it. Today we celebrate not just what you have discovered, but the scholars and leaders you have become.”

The Uncomfortable Truth

Following Gustafson’s welcome, Dr. Kendra Hamilton delivered an address titled “The Uncomfortable Truth,” urging students to embrace learning—even when it leads into difficult and uncomfortable territory.

Hamilton reflected on her own journey to becoming a scholar, tracing her determination back to a painful moment in seventh grade when her knowledge of African American history was publicly doubted by a classmate and dismissed by a teacher. That injustice, Hamilton said, lit a fire within her to pursue knowledge relentlessly and to ensure that marginalized stories are told with honesty and care.

“Learning cannot happen without discomfort,” Hamilton said. “The truths you uncover will at times be uncomfortable, but they will always heal. Never doubt that the knowledge gained and the work we do here matters. If it didn’t, no one would be working so hard to take it away.”

Hamilton drew sobering parallels between past efforts to censor history—such as the antebellum South’s gag rules against abolitionist writings—and contemporary movements to restrict educational content.

She challenged students to commit themselves to truth, resilience, and fearless inquiry in a time when, she warned, “there are forces working to bring darkness back.”

Citing legendary educator Zora Neale Hurston and historian W.E.B. Du Bois, Hamilton affirmed her pride in joining a long tradition of scholars committed to shedding light in the face of ignorance and distortion.

“I am a soldier in a small army of humanities scholars who labor to bring light to this great darkness,” she said. “I stand here today to assure you that uncomfortable truths have been my constant companions—and my greatest teachers.”

Leaders Recognized

Student Government Association president Margaret Leonard ’26 and SGA Vice President for Academic Affairs Reece Bradberry ’26 also addressed the gathering, offering congratulations to the seniors and celebrating the collaborative spirit that defines the PC community.

“Presbyterian College has a beloved culture that is upheld by each of our students, faculty, and staff,” Leonard said. “The drive to excel, both inside and outside the classroom, is what sets our institution apart. Our culture is driven by our community.”

Leonard also honored outgoing SGA executive cabinet members Ella Casto-Waters, former student body president; and Samantha Hauff, former vice president for academic affairs, recognizing their leadership and service.

As the program concluded, there was a clear sense that the Class of 2025 has not only achieved academic success but has left a lasting mark on Presbyterian College’s traditions, values, and future.

“Our students’ creativity, critical thinking, and resilience will serve them throughout their lives,” Gustafson said. “Today is a celebration of the scholars you have become—and the leaders you are destined to be.”

The ceremony also recognized dozens of students and faculty for their academic and leadership achievements:

2025 Academic Awards and Honors

Professor of the Year – Dr. Kendra Hamilton

Outstanding Senior – Caroline Rairigh

Dr. Bob Freymeyer Faculty Scholarship Award – Dr. Eli T. Owens, Associate Professor of Physics

Dr. Kenneth Orr Scholarship Award – Dr. Michael O. Rischbieter, Professor of Biology

American Legion Awards – MacKenzie Leigh Partsch and Patrick Alexander Buchanan

Billy Tiller Award – Nathan James Levicki

Eric A. Johnson Fellows Award – Carolina Rairigh

Frank Dudley & Catherine Wyman Jones Award – Madelyn Lauren Wilkie

Fraser Bible Award – Henlee J. Haynes

Hay Bible Award – Ella Kathryn Beam

Joseph Graham Miller Award – Carson Lee Griffith

Jane Hammet Award – Kelly Lynn Hall

Joseph O. Nixon Leadership Award – Ella Kathryn Casto-Waters

Jack & Jane Presseau Community Service Award – Ethan Haskell Hall

Fraternity Scholastic Award – Pi Kappa Alpha

Sorority Scholastic Award – Alpha Delta Pi

Wall Street Journal Student Achievement Award – Thomas Joseph Betenbaugh

Jean Kirkley Memorial Scholarship – Lyle Thomas Jones

Olmert Fellowship – Madeline Rose Hart

Departmental Awards

Outstanding Senior in Accounting – Kelly Lynn Hall

Outstanding Senior in Data Analytics – Sarah Dieffenderfer

Outstanding Senior in Biochemistry – Amanda Melissa Bailey

Outstanding Senior in Biology – Samuel Keith Johnson

Outstanding Senior in Chemistry – Kayla Rose Ponchamni

Outstanding Senior in Communication Studies – Samantha Alexis Hauff

Outstanding Senior in Computer Science – Cheikh Atamao

Outstanding Senior in Economics – Patrick Charles Bennett

Outstanding Senior in Education – Madison Elizabeth Pruitt

Outstanding Senior in English – Kaila Michelle Reid

Outstanding Senior in French – Chiara Barbieri

Outstanding Senior in History – Patrick Alexander Buchanan

Outstanding Senior in Management – Kelby Ann Goodrum

Outstanding Senior in Marketing – Natalie Kate Herrin

Outstanding Senior in Physics – Jacob Keith Clerc

Outstanding Senior in Political Science – Dakota Ray Price

Outstanding Senior in Psychology – Kaila Michelle Reid

Outstanding Senior in Religion – Patrick Alexander Buchanan

Outstanding Senior in Sociology – Kinslee Elizabeth Sink

Outstanding Senior in Spanish – Cecilia Pérez Santiago

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Presbyterian College honored the achievements, resilience, and future promise of 19 graduates from its Doctor of Occupational Therapy program during a heartfelt commencement and doctoral hooding ceremony held Saturday morning in Belk Auditorium.

The Class of 2025 crossed the stage to receive doctoral hoods and medallions, symbolizing the culmination of more than three years of rigorous study, fieldwork, and service. Faculty, family members, and friends gathered to celebrate a class marked by academic distinction, personal growth, and an unwavering commitment to the healing profession of occupational therapy.

‘You Carry the Legacy of Service’

Presbyterian College President Dr. Anita Gustafson delivered a warm welcome to graduates and their guests, underscoring the deep connection between occupational therapy and PC’s liberal arts mission of service.

“Today marks not just the culmination of your academic journey, but the beginning of your calling to serve others through the transformative practice of occupational therapy,” said Gustafson. “At PC, we believe that education finds its highest purpose when knowledge is applied in service to others. As occupational therapists, you will embody this principle daily.”

She thanked the program’s director, Dr. Moni Keen, for her vision and leadership, and also offered words of encouragement to the graduates as they begin professional practice.

“You carry with you not just a degree,” Gustafson said, “but Presbyterian College’s legacy of service. May you approach each patient with empathy, creativity, and the determination to make a difference.”

A Time for Reflection—and Renewal

Dr. Erin McAdams, provost and vice president for academic affairs, reflected on the significance of the occasion in her remarks, celebrating the students’ accomplishments while also reminding them of the responsibility they now bear.

“Earning a doctoral degree requires a great amount of determination and hard work, and your dedication and perseverance have led you to this significant milestone,” McAdams said. “As you step into your new professional roles, I hope that you carry with you the values of empathy, integrity, and lifelong learning.

“Remember that your education at Presbyterian College has prepared you not just for a career, but for a life of service and leadership. The world needs your expertise, your compassion, and your commitment to excellence. Continue to strive for innovation and excellence in all things, and never lose sight of the profound impact you can make on the lives of others.”

McAdams offered particular praise for the program’s faculty, describing them as models of mentorship and professional excellence.

“One of the things that has impressed me most in my time as provost is the extraordinary dedication of our OT faculty to their students’ growth,” she said. “Thank you for preparing the next generation of occupational therapy doctors—not only with knowledge, but with values.”

Keynote Speaker Urges Graduates to Trust Themselves

The keynote address, titled “Beyond the Next Door: The Path of Lifelong Learning & Purpose”, was delivered by Dr. Amanda Giles, associate professor at the Medical University of South Carolina Division of Occupational Therapy. Giles challenged graduates to reflect on their journey and recognize the personal transformation that often accompanies professional growth.

“You’ve been conditioned to learn based on external feedback,” Giles said. “But today, you’re walking through a new door—one that doesn’t involve grades, GPAs, or test scores. Now, your guide must be your own reflection, your instincts, and your empathy.”

She encouraged the new doctors to remain open to change and unexpected opportunities in their careers.

“Some of you aren’t sure where you’ll be next year—and that’s okay,” she said. “I didn’t know I would end up running an international company or teaching at MUSC. I just kept asking questions and moving forward with what felt right. Stay open to what’s beyond the next door.”

In a moment of levity, Giles asked graduates to look around at each other and remember that the bonds formed during their doctoral training could become lifelong professional connections.

“Your classmates are now your colleagues,” she said. “Stay connected. Support each other. And keep learning.”

Class Speaker Emphasizes Resilience and Purpose

Representing the graduating class, Graceanna Sessions—a former SOTA President and recipient of the Leadership & Service Award of Distinction—gave an emotional and uplifting address titled “Bound by Chaos, Growth, and Heart.”

“When I asked my class to describe OT school in three words, the answers were raw and honest: brutal, sleepless, chaotic,” Sessions said. “But alongside that chaos came words like life-changing, transformative, and empowering. Those words tell the real story—how we grew not just as future occupational therapists, but as people.”

Sessions acknowledged the crucial role of peer support, family encouragement, and faith in helping the class persevere. She shared anecdotes and insights from fellow graduates, who reflected on their fieldwork experiences and how real-life application deepened their confidence and professional purpose.

“Karina was surprised by how much mental health plays a role in every setting,” Sessions said. “Britny realized she knew more than she thought—and learned to believe in herself. Claudia talked about the love and care that define this profession. Madie saw how much our presence impacts not only clients, but their families.”

She closed with a rallying call to her peers: “We are forever bonded by chaos, growth, and heart. We didn’t just survive OT school—we owned it. Congratulations, Doctors of Occupational Therapy. The world is lucky to have us. Let’s go out and make a difference.”

Honoring Excellence: 2025 Award Recipients

Several graduates and field educators were recognized for outstanding contributions to academics, research, leadership, and professional service:

• Academic Award of Distinction – Madie Degennaro
• Leadership and Service Award of Distinction – Graceanna Sessions
• Professional Development Award of Distinction – Krissy Harrelson
• Professional Research and Scholarship Award of Distinction – Claudia Newsom and Rachel Petrie
• Clinical Education Award of Distinction – Alycea Graham and Lexi Walters
• Clinical Education Award of Service – Dr. Shebby Aiken
• Leadership in Community Innovation Award of Distinction – Addison Powell

A Charge to Serve

Following the awards, graduates were presented with doctoral medallions before reciting the Occupational Therapy Oath, adapted from the original 1926 version and modernized with principles adopted recently by the American Occupational Therapy Association. The oath emphasized ethical standards, cultural sensitivity, and the ongoing pursuit of competence and service.

Looking Ahead

As bagpipes signaled the recessional and graduates processed out of Belk Auditorium into the spring sunshine, the mood was celebratory and hopeful.

In her final words to the class, Dr. Moni Keen offered a reminder of the road ahead: “Be amazing in all you do. You have earned this moment, and the world needs your compassion, your skills, and your voice.”

The Presbyterian College Occupational Therapy Doctoral Program Class of 2025

Olivia Adams

Cum Laude

Student Occupational Therapy Association (SOTA) Board Member

Karina Antonio

Cum Laude

SOTA Board Member

Kiana Broughton

Magna Cum Laude

Zayn DeAndrade

Cum Laude

Student Ambassador

Madison Degennaro

Summa Cum Laude

Pi Theta Epsilon Member

SOTA Board Member

Student Ambassador

Academic Award of Distinction

Corinna Mary Katherine Gibbs

Cum Laude

SOTA Board Member

Alycea Graham

Cum Laude

SOTA Board Member

Clinical Education Award of Distinction

Jenna Hare

Magna Cum Laude

Pi Theta Epsilon Member

Student Ambassador

Krissy Harrelson

Professional Development Award of Distinction

Lindsey Joyce

Angela Karasev

Magna Cum Laude

Pi Theta Epsilon Member

Hallie Keisler

Cum Laude

SOTA Board Member

Britney Lee

Cum Laude

Crystalyn Brooke Lyerly

Magna Cum Laude

Pi Theta Epsilon Member

SOTA Board Member

Claudia Newsom

Cum Laude

Pi Theta Epsilon Member

SOTA Board Member

Professional Research and Scholarship Award of Distinction

Emily Wei-Hwa Ouyang

Magna Cum Laude

Pi Theta Epsilon Member

SOTA Board Member

Student Ambassador

Addison Powell

Cum Laude

Student Ambassador

Leadership in Community Innovation Award of Distinction

Graceanna Sessons

Magna Cum Laude

Pi Theta Epsilon Member

SOTA Board Member

Leadership and Service Award of Distinction

Nubia Nallely Vazquez Arana

Cum Laude

SOTA Board Member

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Presbyterian College provides streamlined transfer process for students affected by college closures

In response to the recent announcements of Limestone University and St. Andrews University closures, Presbyterian College is extending immediate support to affected students with guaranteed merit scholarships ranging from $20,000 to $25,000 and a streamlined transfer process to ensure continuity in their educational journeys.

“Saints and Knights, no institution can fully replace the unique experiences you’ve had at Limestone University and St. Andrews University,” said Anita Gustafson, president of Presbyterian College. “We understand the deep connection you formed with your campus community, and our Blue Hose family stands ready to welcome you with open arms.”

Presbyterian College has established a Limestone University and St. Andrews University Transfer Gateway to assist students in transition with personalized guidance through every step of the transfer process.

Streamlined Transfer Process includes:

• No Application Fee
• Expedited Admissions Process
• Priority Transcript Evaluation
• Guaranteed Scholarship Consideration from $20,000 – $25,000
• $2,000 Phi Theta Kappa Scholarship in addition to merit-based awards

“We understand this is a challenging time of unexpected transition for Limestone and St. Andrews University students,” said Dr. Brandon Vinson, vice president for enrollment management. “We have a dedicated team ready to provide personalized support to ensure the transfer process is seamless for students experiencing academic displacement.”

Presbyterian College offers more than 90 majors, minors, and pre-professional programs. With small class sizes and personalized attention, students will find a supportive academic environment designed to help them succeed.

How to Transfer to Presbyterian College:

• Apply for free through our streamlined application process.
• Submit transcripts for priority evaluation.
• Complete the FAFSA using PC’s school code (003445).
• Join us for a campus tour.

Students seeking more information can contact the Office of Admissions at 1-800-476-7272 or admissions@presby.edu.

*Students must apply and be admitted for scholarship consideration.

**Transfer students who are members of Phi Theta Kappa will receive an additional $2,000 on top of merit aid.

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“When I heard about the scholarship, I knew this was my chance to make a difference on a larger scale,” Porter said.

His proposal outlined a practical plan to bridge the gap between food deserts and access to nutrition. Working with Dr. Ben Bailey, Porter has already begun collaborating with Wholespire Laurens County to bring his vision to life.

Porter’s journey to PC was driven by its tight-knit community. Initially torn between PC and USC Honors College, he chose PC after his first tour.

“I could instantly tell that when you’re at PC, you’re treated like family,” Porter said.

The strong bonds between students and faculty sealed his decision, providing an environment where he could thrive and pursue his passion for service.

The Mobile Market is more than a project for Porter; it’s a personal mission rooted in his commitment to helping underserved communities. By addressing transportation barriers, his initiative promises to deliver not just food but hope, fostering healthier, more connected neighborhoods. His work exemplifies the spirit of the Service Entrepreneurship Competition, which empowers students to create sustainable change.

As Porter moves forward, his dedication and innovative thinking continue to inspire.

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