SEARCY, Ark.—The following Gilmer residents are among approximately 750 graduates who received diplomas at Harding University’s commencement exercises May 5: Crysten Millican, Bachelor of Arts, Early Childhood Education with Licensure; Caitlyn Oliver, Bachelor of Arts, Early Childhood Education with Licensure

For the first time, Harding conducted two commencement programs for spring graduates. The 9 a.m. ceremony included graduates in the Colleges of Arts and Humanities, Bible and Ministry, Business Administration and Education. The 1 p.m. ceremony included graduates in the Colleges of Allied Health, Nursing, Pharmacy and Sciences. Both ceremonies included graduates from the Honors College.

Dr. Michael Claxton, associate professor of English, was the keynote speaker for the 9 a.m. ceremony, and Dr. Hewitt W. Matthews, dean of Mercer University of College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences in Atlanta, Ga., was the keynote speaker for the 1 p.m. ceremony. The ceremonies were held in the George S. Benson Auditorium. President David B. Burks presented the diplomas to all students.

With an enrollment of more than 7,100 students, Harding is the largest private university in Arkansas and attracts more National Merit Scholars than any other private university in the state. Harding also maintains campuses in Australia, Chile, England, France, Greece, Italy and Zambia.