They’re among Eastern Mennonite University’s most outstanding students, exemplifying the school’s highest ideals.
Ten EMU seniors, nominated by faculty, staff and fellow students, were honored as this year’s "Cords of Distinction" recipients in an awards ceremony held Apr. 23 in Martin Chapel.
They will wear the gold and blue cords as they graduate on Apr. 29, 2007.
Blue represents the strength of conviction that one person can help to create a better institution or community. Gold represents the love of spirit and yearning towards creating a better university environment or community in which all may take part.
The students were cited for their "significant and verifiable impact" on the university and on student life, for their contributions to developing the institution’s positive image, for substantial contributions to the Harrisonburg/Rockingham County area and beyond, for their high academic and social standing and their embodiment of EMU’s shared values of Christian discipleship, community, service and peacebuilding.
The "Cords of Distinction" recipients are (seated, l. to r.): Anita K. Adjetey, Harrisonburg, major in social work with minors in psychology and sociology; Lorachel C. Daye, Dover, Del., major in nursing; Cheryl B. Heatwole, Christiansburg, Va., major in environmental science with minors in chemistry, mathematics and socio-economic development; and Julia R. Gingrich, Goshen, Ind., major in applied sociology with minors in history, political studies and justice, peace and conflict studies.
(standing, l. to r.): Galen K. Wenger, Chesapeake, Va., major in philosophy and theology with minors in English and history; Timothy H. Shenk, Harrisonburg, major in liberal arts with minors in Bible and religion, history and psychology; Brenna M. Steury, major in history with minors in Bible and religion and political studies; Jonathan D. Keener, Elizabethtown, Pa., major in music with minor in TESL (Teaching English as a Secondary Language); Kara L. Bender, Pittsburgh, Pa., major in applied sociology and social work with minor in socio-economic development; and Joy Y. Shaiebly, Lancaster, Pa., major in health and physical education, Pre-K-12 licensure with minors in coaching and exercise science. She is student teaching and unable to attend the ceremony. Shaiebly is co-president of the undergraduate senior class. (Photo by Jim Bishop)