Perkins to speak at TMU 70th commencement ceremony

By Jenny Gregory

CLEVELAND – Truett McConnell University announced Tony Perkins, President of the Family Research Council and nationally recognized speaker, as the 2019 commencement speaker.

Perkins, who is an ordained minister and veteran of the USMC, frequently appears as a guest on national news programs and talk shows. Recognized as the leading conservative and pro-life voice in the Louisiana Legislature, Perkins is a tireless advocate for the family. He is a board member of Caring to Love Ministries, one of Louisiana's largest pregnancy resource centers. Additionally, he serves as president of the Council for National Policy.

“In a day of ethical confusion and familial breakdown,” said Emir Caner, TMU President, “Dr. Perkins leads the way in heralding and defending a biblical worldview among the nation’s political and spiritual leaders. From religious liberty to life, from family to faith, Dr. Perkins’ voice is known throughout the halls of Washington D.C., and our students will be blessed to hear from this prophet of the Lord.”

Celebrating 70 years

The class of 2019 will carry great significance, not only as the school’s largest graduating class of 140 graduates, but also as the 71^st graduating class. This year’s ceremony will feature numerous recognitions of the past, present, and future, including alumni from the class of 1949.

“Every graduation is a special event,” said Dr. John Yarbrough, TMU Director of Alumni Relations and Public Policy. “However, this year, Truett McConnell will celebrate a very special graduation as we celebrate the 70^th anniversary of our first graduation. We have seen many changes and challenges over the decades, but the heart of Truett McConnell has remained grounded in our faith.”

The ceremony will be Saturday, May 11 at 10 a.m. in the George Blaurock Student Wellness Center. All are invited to join as TMU celebrates the class of 2019 and this special milestone.

“The unique character of Truett McConnell and the special relationships developed between faculty, staff, and students have been a consistent hallmark of Truett McConnell. The class of 2019 will continue the legacy of the first class and each class since to impact the world,” said Yarbrough.

Jenny Gregory is the Digital Content Specialist for the Marketing and Communications Department at TMU.