Crowley’s Ridge College held its 2021-22 academic school year graduation ceremony on Saturday, honoring students who have completed degree requirements in their respective areas of study. Associate of Arts, Bachelor of Arts, and Bachelor of Science degrees were awarded, spanning over four divisions: Arts & Sciences, Biblical Studies, Business, and Teacher Education.

Jake Bequette, former Arkansas Razorback, New England Patriot, U.S. Army Ranger, and life-long Arkansan delivered the commencement address to the Class of 2021-22, sharing eight rules of life that he learned from New England Patriots Head Coach Bill Belichick.

“Speak for yourself, manage expectations, don’t believe, or fuel the hype, and ignore the noise. Do your job, work hard, be attentive, and put the team first… I guarantee you [this] can work in your family, your church, your business and professional career, and in whatever endeavor is in front of you,” Bequette said.

Ted Crigler, a Bible graduate from St. Louis, served as the student speaker for commencement. In his speech, Crigler urged his fellow classmates to, “keep the main thing, the main thing” in all that they do.

Also honored during commencement were CRC’s inaugural class of Goldeneers, a group of CRC alumni of at least 50 years. This year’s Goldeneers included Nolan Brown, of Searcy, Class of 1966; Mike Hill, of Greenway, Class of 1966; Ken Hoppe, of Paragould, Class of 1968; Steven Higgs, of Paragould, Class of 1968; and Dan Newsom, of Searcy, Class of 1972.

The CRC Class of 2021-22 consisted of 34 graduates, with 19 of those graduating with honors.

Bailey Bunch, of Bunkie, Louisiana; Madyson Scott, of Paragould; and Abbey Vance, of Black Rock, each graduated with a Bachelor of Science in K-6 Education degree, are received Summa Cum Laude honors, the highest academic honor a student can receive at CRC.

The Division of Teacher Education is wrapping up an academic year that saw nine CRC seniors enter roles as Pre-Service Teachers. Each student successfully finished their Pre-Service Teacher role and is now a fully certified educator. Most of these seniors have already secured full-time positions at area schools.

“The fall and spring class has represented CRC well and the education department is so proud of all of them,” said Dr. Hollie Goodson, Chair of Teacher Education.

The CRC Class of 2021-22 has wasted no time in making an impact in their careers, as over 50% of the class has already started a full-time job, has employment lined up, or plans to continue their education further.

CRC is proud of these graduates and happy to celebrate another year of providing a quality, affordable, Christian education to students from northeast Arkansas and beyond.