More than 380 students graduated from The University of Findlay during fall commencement ceremonies at 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9, in the Koehler Fitness and Recreation Complex.

After an invocation by Will Miller, director of Christian ministries, and singing of “The Star Spangled Banner” by Micheal F. Anders, Ph.D., director of music, Dr. DeBow Freed, president of the University, introduced commencement speaker Dr. Richard Anderson, chairman of the board of The Andersons Inc., as “civic-minded and generous.”

Dr. Richard Anderson gave the commencement address.

“I believe that my assignment today is to try to impart some knowledge that is based on my experience over the 77 years of my life,” Anderson began. In his address, Anderson spoke about leadership and its necessity in family life, business and politics. He cited four characteristics of leadership: vision, values, service and decisiveness. “Leaders make others successful. They motivate, educate, support and serve others.”

Anderson offered much advice to students. He believes that a vision “revolves around two connected habits: a strong interest in and a personal responsibility for what is to come and a consistently positive outlook.” The values that Anderson ranks highly in respect to leadership include respect and concern for others; a balanced ego; integrity and honesty; dignity of work and competence.

In conclusion, Anderson encouraged graduates to be positive, focus on vision, listen and help others succeed, and learn to make a positive out of a negative. “Enlightened leadership is essential to personal and organizational success.”

Richard E. White was presented with an honorary doctor of business degree.

Freed, president of the University, presented Mr. Richard E. White of Findlay with an honorary doctor of business degree. White became a trustee of The University of Findlay in 1996, co-chair of the Business Affairs Committee in 2001 and vice chair of the Board in 2002. His business expertise, insight, vitality, sound judgment and dedicated service have greatly benefited The University of Findlay.

To read Anderson’s complete commencement address and White’s official citation, click here.

UF President DeBow Freed congratulated graduates as they accepted their diplomas.

A total of 214 graduate degrees were awarded including 84 master of arts in education degrees; one master of arts in liberal studies degree; six master of arts in TESOL (teaching English to speakers of other languages) degrees; 104 master of business administration degrees; eight master of occupational therapy degrees; and 11 master of environmental, safety and health management degrees.

A total of 158 undergraduate degrees were conferred including 28 bachelor of arts degrees and 130 bachelor of science degrees. Thirteen associate of arts degrees were awarded. Among the UF graduates were 55 international students, representing seven countries. The University’s traditional Arch Ceremony immediately followed commencement at the Griffith Memorial Arch.