Lee University conferred 136 degrees this past weekend during its winter commencement ceremony. Graduates, faculty, family, and friends filled the festively decorated Conn Center for the event where Dr. Douglas F. Mann delivered the address.
 
During his commencement address, Mann encouraged graduates to approach their journey not by striving, impressing, or earning, but by abiding in Christ. He reminded them to “do your work as worship wherever God places you; do it for His glory.” Mann challenged students to let their love grow deeper and wiser, grounded in the truth of God’s Word, and to pursue excellence over ease or trends. He also called graduates to live with integrity in both public and private life, honor those who shaped them, and bear lasting fruit that reflects the character of Christ.
 
Mann serves as president of Bryan College and brings extensive experience in scholarship and leadership in Christian higher education. A 1992 Bryan graduate, he earned a master’s degree in Christian thought from Trinity International University and a doctorate in history from the University of Georgia. He previously served as vice president for academics and provost at Bryan and taught history at Liberty University, where he held several administrative roles, including dean of the graduate school and vice provost for graduate education. He is a published author and frequent presenter.
 
Of the 136 degrees conferred during the commencement ceremony, 37 were awarded to graduate students, including seven doctoral degrees. Winter commencement is one of three graduation weekends at Lee each year, with additional ceremonies held in May and August.
 
“Lee University enjoyed a wonderful winter Commencement and honored our graduates who completed their academic journeys on our campus,” said Dr. Phil Cook, Lee president. “These ceremonies mark a significant milestone for students and families, and it is especially meaningful during the Christmas holiday. We are terribly proud of them all and will always remember their contributions to Lee.” 
 
Saturday’s ceremony was preceded by a pinning ceremony for nursing graduates, a hooding ceremony for recipients of master’s, doctoral, and education specialist degrees, and the Commissioning Service on Friday. The service featured several graduating participants, including five student speakers who shared reflections on their Lee experience.
 
To view the events, visit leeu.live.
 
For more information about commencement exercises, please contact the Academic Events Office at [email protected], (423) 614-8117, or visit  leeuniversity.edu/academics/graduation-info/.