May 8, 2006

189 students from the class of 2006 were the first to graduate from the college under the name Corban.

It’s unusual for a commencement ceremony to feature so many of the older generation who, by their example, challenge the new graduates to be strong in their walk with God.  The elder statesmen in attendance at Corban's 60th ceremony included 90-year-old commencement speaker Dr. Herb Anderson, 97-year-old former president Dr. Herbert Farrar, and president Emeritus Dr. John Balyo. Current faculty member Dr. Richard Caulkins was also recognized for 50 years of service to the college.

Dr. Anderson sent out Corban College’s 2006 graduates with a rousing keynote speech on Saturday, May 6. This adjunct professor, who teaches at Corban, challenged the 189 college graduates to live with vigor and purpose. The age contrast was obvious -- but Dr. Anderson has proven, over several decades, his ability to speak effectively to the younger generations.

Left to Right: President and Mrs. Reno Hoff; former first lady Mrs. Davina Younger; Betty and President Emeritus John Balyo; speaker Dr. Herb Anderson and Betty Lu; and former President Herbert Farrar.

In addition to Dr. Anderson, Dr. Herbert Farrar was recognized as someone who was at the first commencement service as well as this, the 60th.  At 97, Dr. Farrar is still vibrant and enthusiastic about the college, and expressed his historical perspective and his encouragement to the Board of Trustees at their regular meeting the day before commencement.

This year, business and psychology graduates make up half of those receiving degrees. They are followed by elementary education, ministry and English students. Graduates range from traditional college students to students who have completed their undergraduate degrees through the Degree Completion program.

The first class of graduates from Corban’s Master’s Degree program also walked in the ceremony. The college unveiled its Master’s of Education Program in fall 2004 and awarded its first degrees on Saturday.

After the ceremony, heartfelt goodbyes represented the end of a four-year journey.

Another point of interest, the Music Department graduated its first class from its new Worship Arts program. This unique course of study trains the next generation of church music leaders for a fast-changing era of technology and music styles. Not only do they lead music onstage, but they also learn to lead a band, run sound and lights and operate computer systems in an increasingly high-tech world. 

This year’s Worship Arts graduate, Heather Combs, of Vancouver, Wash., led chapel services during her time at Corban and also helped lead services at Dayspring Fellowship in Keizer, Ore. In addition to her diploma, she received leadership and academic awards. See: http://www.corban.edu/news/2005-06/0412heathercombs.html