William Woods University celebrated the largest December commencement in its history, and graduates heard an inspiring speech from Charles E. Kruse, president of the Missouri Farm Bureau. A total of 491 December graduates were conferred degrees. Another 158 graduates whose degrees were conferred in August were eligible to participate in the winter ceremony.
Kruse told the graduates that to become successful they should live and work "the Woods Way."
"When I first heard about the Woods Way, I was intrigued. I have observed that it is not just a slogan. I have learned that it does mean a lot. It says a lot about the culture of this university, the caring of the faculty and the closeness of the student body," Kruse said.
During her remarks later in the evening, WWU President Dr. Jahnae H. Barnett also spoke of "the Woods Way."
"At William Woods, the Woods Way is the way in which we live, learn and play. It is our small town campus, with big school opportunities. It is our knowledgeable faculty who impart their wisdom and experiences.
