Spring graduates received a symbolic gift as they crossed the commencement stage at Valhalla in May: a relay baton presented by commencement speaker Dan Cathy, founder of Trilith Studios, former CEO of Chick-fil-A and Berry trustee emeritus.
The batons reinforced Cathy’s remarks comparing a successful relay handoff to graduates beginning the next leg of their calling.
“There’s a lot of pomp and circumstance here, with the band and the regalia, because that’s how important this exchange is,” he stressed. “So, my challenge as you receive these diplomas is that you really take that baton and convey, ‘I’ve got this.’”
Cathy was one of three new recipients of Berry’s Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree recognized during the ceremony. In his speech, he evoked the name of Martha Berry, emphasizing that she “understood that the future will be shaped by the character of leaders who run and learn to run fast.” He later encouraged the graduates to “build boldly, serve faithfully, lead courageously, love generously, and when the race becomes difficult and the baton gets heavy, trust God, keep running and finish well.”
Also receiving honorary degrees were Emeriti Trustees Marti Berry Walstad and Randy Berry, who were presented with honorary doctorates by Kathleen Kelly, the latest member of Martha Berry’s family to join the Board of Trustees.
