CAMPBELLSVILLE, Ky. – “Carry the legacy forward,” this was the challenge given to graduates of Campbellsville University’s class of 2026 on Saturday, May 9, by the keynote speaker and CU alum, Jane Wheatley.
More than thirty years ago, Wheatley was ready to walk across the stage with her graduating class of 1995 with a Bachelor of Science in Organizational Administration. Like most of her colleagues, Wheatley was beginning a legacy of her own. This path would take her on a journey that would impact countless individuals.
Wheatley is a retired CEO of Taylor Regional Hospital, a member of the CU Board of Trustees, a member of the Campbellsville-Taylor County Economic Development office and is also an active member of Campbellsville Baptist Church.
“We stand on the threshold of two meaningful milestones, the 250th anniversary of the United States and the 120th anniversary of Campbellsville University. These anniversaries are reminders of legacy, what we inherit, what we build, and what we leave behind,” said Wheatley.
Wheatley impressed upon the graduates, “legacy is often thought of as something distant, something reserved for history, books, or extraordinary figures, often those you just read about.”
“But legacy is not just what is remembered. It's what's carried forward. It is shaped in everyday choices, in quiet acts of courage, in the pursuit of purpose, and in commitment to something greater than oneself. You, yourself, are creating your own legacy every day.”
“Every graduate carries forward a piece of this institution's legacy, not just in what they know, but in how they live. And that brings us to an important truth. Legacy is not just something received; it is something we create.”
In closing, Wheatley reminded the graduates of their calling to make an impact on others around the world and on those directly beside them.
“Let's be mindful of the legacy we are shaping, not just in history books, but in the lives around us, because one day, others will look back on this moment, on our actions, our decisions, our contributions, and they will draw inspiration, just as we do from those who came before us.”
Wheatley closed with reading Matthew 28:19 through 20, “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
In total, Campbellsville University held six graduation ceremonies. Two on Friday, May 8, for Master's and Doctorate, two on Saturday, May 8, for Bachelor’s, one on Monday, May 11, for workforce development and certificate programs, and one on Saturday, May 12, for graduates at the Los Angeles, California campus.
In total, 832 graduates graduated at the May ceremonies. Of that, 16 were doctorate degrees, 512 were master’s degrees, 288 were bachelor’s degrees, and 16 were associate’s degrees. Candidates for graduation receive their degrees on the recommendation of the faculty and the approval of the Board of Trustees.
CU’s workforce Development programs also saw 84 certificate completions that ranged from cosmetology, barbering, welding, and other skill trades.
During the May commencement ceremonies, Campbellsville University president Dr. Joe Hopkins presented the Algernon Sydney Sullivan Community and Student Awards.
The Algernon Sydney Sullivan Community Award was presented to CU Alum Dan and Ginny Flanagan.
Rev. Dan Flanagan, longtime supporter of Campbellsville University, worked at then Campbellsville College from 1976 to 1990, serving as Campus Minister, Vice President for Student Life, Vice President for Religious Life and Counseling, and serving as Assistant Professor of Social Work at Campbellsville College from 1977 to 1990. He taught at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in the School of Social Work and served as a professor in the Social Work Department at Spaulding University. Dan graduated from Campbellsville College in 1965.
Virginia (Ginny) Flanagan is a 1965 graduate of then Campbellsville College. She served in various capacities with CU as Special Assistant to the President, Director of Technology Training, which is named in her honor, Director of Public Relations and Rublications for the Campbellsville College television station and radio station and college communications program and Director of Alumni and Public Relations.
Ginny served as former executive director of the Kentucky Agriculture Heritage Center, the executive director of the Kentucky History Center, project manager for the Center for Rural Development and many more accolades.
Dr. Hopkins commented on the devotion and servitude that the Flanagan family exemplifies, “Dan and Ginny Flanagan have been family for countless CU students and staff, including the Hopkins family. Their leadership has guided us through some of our most challenging hours. Quite simply, they are CU royalty.”
The Algernon Sydney Sullivan Student Award was presented to Gabe Maurer of Stamping Ground, Kentucky, who graduated with a bachelor’s degree in biology/chemistry. Maurer also served this past year as the Student Government Association President, representing the student body in several events and service projects.
“Gabe Maurer has been an inspiration to many of us, and he leaves an enduring legacy that makes CU better for those who follow. It has been a joy to watch him grow in leadership, courage, and wisdom, and I believe he has a remarkable future,” said Hopkins.
At the end of each ceremony, Hopkins offered a charge to each graduating body. Challenging each graduate to reflect on how CU has been woven into their lives and to hold onto the joy of today so it can bring clarity in the future.
“I believe it is possible for today's thoughtfulness to preserve a foundation that we can return to when future lessons and moments become uncertain, when the past feels distant, and when pinnacle moments of triumph are commemorated. Let's make certain that we don't miss the opportunity to rejoice and be glad in the day that the Lord has made,” said Hopkins.
During each service, a student from each graduating class responded to the charge given to them. One of those respondents was newly hooded Doctor of Chiropractic, Sidney McCollum Hail of Eubank, Kentucky.
Hail answered the charge to hold joy in the moment that she and her classmates were experiencing.
“This moment didn't come easy. It was built in early mornings and long nights, and moments where we felt confident and in moments where we certainly did not. It was even built in the people who stood beside us and lifted us up and refused to let us quit,” said Hail
“Carry forward from this place is not just knowledge, and it's not just a degree, but it's a deeper understanding of our purpose. The purpose that calls us to not just achieve, but to serve. Not just succeed, but to make an impact in the lives of others.”
Hail finished her answer to the charge by reminding her students not to rush into the next moment, but instead to give thanks.
“I hope you feel it and remember it and thank God for it. And as we step forward, we do so not in chasing what's next but carrying with us everything that this moment has already given. Congratulations, Class of 2026.”
Campbellsville University is a widely acclaimed Kentucky-based Christian university that offers over 100 programs, including doctoral, master's, bachelor's, associate and certificate programs. For complete information, please visit www.campbellsville.edu.