President Patterson Speaks for 2025 SWAU Convocation

Ana Patterson, president of Southwestern Adventist University, spoke for the University’s annual convocation ceremony on Thursday, Sept. 4. 

Held at the Keene Seventh-day Adventist Church, the convocation marks the official beginning of the academic year at SWAU.

Professors and administrators entered in colorful academic robes, such as those worn here by Drs. Renard Doneskey, Steve Jones and Daryl Thomas.

The ceremony started as professors and administrators entered in colorful academic robes, led by Dr. Daryl Thomas and Kent Rufo carrying the traditional mace and banner, respectively.  Pastor Michael Gibson, lead pastor at Keene SDA Church, offered the invocation and was followed by the anthem “Wade in the Water,” performed by The University Singers, directed by Jonathan Wall.

Dr. William Smith, vice president for academic administration, welcomed students and introduced Patterson. As president, Ana Patterson was recognized as the first female, first Hispanic, and first alumni to have that position at SWAU.

The Southwestern Chamber Orchestra, conducted by Dr. Rogerio Nunes, performed both the processional and recessional.

Patterson told students to remember they are “created on purpose for a purpose,” citing Ephesians 1:4 and 5.

“Before he started to create us, he had a plan for redemption, a design, a blueprint. There’s no part of you that is an accident.”

The dedicatory prayer by Elder Russ Laughlin, vice president of spiritual development, concluded the program. Southwestern Chamber Orchestra performed both the processional and recessional.