Faith is key to a successful life, Frederick T. Stimpson III, chief executive officer of Scotch Gulf Lumber, told the University of Mobile (UMobile) Class of 2012 during commencement ceremonies May 12 at the Mobile Civic Center.
“In my opinion, if you learn to approach all instances of your life, including your career, through the eyes of faith, you will have a great shot at a successful life,” Stimpson told approximately 350 students receiving associate’s, bachelor’s and master’s degrees.
The university’s top two student awards, the William K. Weaver Jr. Excellence Award and the Annie Boyd Parker Weaver Excellence Award, were presented to graduates — Andrew Chandler Pouncey, of Mobile, and Kala Marc Holt, of Millerville, respectively. Pouncey graduated magna cum laude with a bachelor of science in music, and Holt graduated summa cum laude from the honors program with thesis, earning a bachelor of arts in English and a bachelor of arts in humanities, while receiving the area award in humanities.
Retiring Professor of Biology Thomas Bilbo carried the ceremonial mace and led the procession into the arena. The ceremony was dedicated in memory of Kenneth Bergdolt, professor emeritus, who died Dec. 23, 2011.
Stimpson — who said it was “a great privilege to stand before a group that will take part in shaping the world” — shared personal examples of how prayer and obedience to God was vital in bringing his company through tough economic times. “Regardless of how difficult circumstances are, the way forward is through faith in our Lord and obedience to Him,” he said. “We need you out there. We need you in every aspect of our culture and our economy.
“Of course you have received an education, but more importantly, you are graduating from a university where a Christian world view is integrated into all areas of study, where you are exposed to approaching all aspects of your life, including your career, through the eyes of faith,” he said. “[T]he Lord is preparing you today for a great tomorrow.”
(UMobile)
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