BUIES CREEK, N.C. -- Campbell University’s School of Education commissioned more than 100 graduating seniors to service and recognized alumni and Campbell supporters at its 19th Spring Commissioning Service Friday.
 
State Sen. Dr. William Purcell of the state’s 25th District was Friday’s keynote speaker, and he brought a challenge to the seniors to serve with their students’ futures in mind.
 
“I encourage you as marked individuals, as you enter your chosen profession, to look for service opportunities even above and beyond your chosen profession,” Purcell said. “Never forget the joy that comes in helping others even though it may not be obvious until years later. As you serve others, always try - as hard as it may be at times - to do it with compassion.”
 
The School of Education offers undergraduate programs in birth, kindergarten, elementary, middle grades, secondary and special education as well as psychology and social work. Master’s level programs are offered in teaching, counseling and school administration.
 
During the annual convocation, the school honors outstanding students and alumni in the various departments. Among the students honored was Braden Forbes, a senior majoring in Social Work who said she was grateful for the opportunities afforded to her.
 
“Over my years at Campbell University, I have seen how the Friends of the School of Education have supported me through financial aid as well as funded my classmates and me to become members of a professional Social Work organization in order to learn more about the profession, to participate in conferences, and to network with other Social Work agencies,” Forbes said. “I could not have been where I am today if it was not for the School of Education. You all have helped enhance my career path.”
 
The other student honorees included Bethany Raquel Malpass, who received the Outstanding Student Award in Psychology, and Samuel “Duncan” McMillan, who received the Professional Education Outstanding Student Award.
Several Campbell Education Alumnae were also recognized - Kay Paksoy received the School of Education Graduate of the Last Decade Alumna Award, and Jennifer Lampley received the School of Education Outstanding Alumna Award.
 
U.S. Army Lt. Gen. Susan Lawrence was awarded the School of Education Lifetime Achievement Alumna Award. Lawrence is a 1979 graduate of Campbell with a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology and received a commission in the U.S. Army as a 2nd Lieutenant. Lawrence is currently the Chief Information Officer for the Army.