News       
from ABAC

Michael D. Chason
Director of Public Relations
ABAC 30 -- 2802 Moore Highway
Tifton, GA 31793-2601
Phone 229-391-5055
Fax 229-391-5056
mchason@abac.edu

 

Green Bar Divider

 

IMMEDIATE                                                                                                                                                                        DECEMBER 13, 2008

 

 

Graydon Challenges ABAC Fall Graduates

 

TIFTON—In the closing ceremony of the 100th birthday celebration at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College Friday night, ABAC alumnus Wasdon Graydon challenged the 130 students participating in the fall commencement ceremony to become leaders.

 “I ask that as you become leaders that you lead with knowledge, lead with love, lead with compassion, and lead with a purpose,” Graydon, a member of the ABAC Class of 1970, said. “Your purpose should not be just centered on you; rather it should be a purpose for the ‘greater good’ of those are in your circle and all around you.”

With over 1,000 parents, relatives, and friends looking on in Gressette Gym on the ABAC campus, Graydon told the graduates that he had “come to realize and appreciate the role that ABAC plays in this community.

 “ABAC is not only an educational institution, but it is an economic driver for the community. It also provides a social and cultural outlet for the students and the larger community”

Graydon is now the Director of Sponsored Programs and Minority Advising Program at ABAC. He joined the college as a staff member in 1973.

ABAC has celebrated its 100th birthday since the Homecoming kickoff on March 31, 2007. The first day of classes for the Second District A&M School, the predecessor of ABAC, was on Feb. 20, 1908. One hundred years later on Feb.20, 2008, the college featuring an array of events including alumni speeches, a centennial concert, hot air balloon rides, and fireworks.

ABAC President David Bridges has now launched a “Second Century Plan,” to prepare the college for its second century of service. As a State College, ABAC now offers selected bachelor’s degree programs as well as its traditional two-year degrees.

The college will close for the holidays at 3 p.m. on Dec. 19 and open for the new year on Jan. 5, 2009. Spring term classes begin Jan. 12.

 

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