Virginia Graduation Makes for Many Proud Families, and One Proud Family With Many SLU Diplomas

May 25, 2010

Saint Leo University’s Virginia commencement ceremony brought together, all under one roof, 655 new graduates who had studied at the university’s Fort Lee, Fort Eustis, Langley, Chesapeake, and South Hampton Roads locations––quite a big SLU family-style reunion.

And there was at least one, smaller family gathering that was part of the larger celebration, a triple-play graduation within one family unit. It was an occasion that captures the spirit of Saint Leo and a love of learning.

Husband and father Arthur C. Austin related the story this way on the eve of the Saturday, May 22 commencement ceremony. “My wife Deborah is receiving her MBA, I am receiving my MBA with a concentration in health care management, and my daughter LeAnna is receiving her Associate of Arts degree. My wife has received all three of her degrees from Saint Leo University. My endeavor was a bit more diversified in that I was active duty military (Navy), during most of my studies. I received my Associate of Science degree from Merritt College in Oakland California, my Bachelor of Science (with a 4.0 grade average) from Southern Illinois University, (which I was unable to attend ceremony due to military obligation), and finally my MBA/HCM from Saint. Leo University. My daughter just started her journey in August 2008. What a deal. I truly thank God for providing me and my family the opportunity to continue to grow academically.’’

Some of the other degrees awarded Saturday at the Hampton University Convocation Center include Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, Master of Science in criminal justice, and Master of Arts in theology. The commencement address was delivered by Saint Leo alumnus Everett Jordan, director of training of Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding’s Apprentice School in Newport News, Virginia. Read more about Jordan’s enterprising career. 

Photo: From left, LeAnna, Arthur, and Deborah Austin.