An SVU Graduation

During the summer of 2007 Christian was on a cross country road trip with his friend Steve and was coming north out of Florida headed eventually to Vermont to visit his sister Michelle.  It was actually mid August, and he had still not found a college who would accept him.  Having dropped out of school very young, even though he got a GED, he had not taken a college entrance exam and just wasn't getting anywhere.  Out of the blue, I got a call from Chieko Okazaki.  Chieko is a renowned author and former member of the Relief Society Presidency for the LDS Church.  She had stayed at our home on a couple of occasions, and really liked Chris.  One night I remember waking up about one in the morning to find her teaching Chris and Kevin Yo-Yo tricks.

On the day in question, Chieko called me about 1 in the afternoon Pacific.  She asked where Chris was and wanted to talk to him.  When I told her where he was, she said she would call me back soon.  Within an hour, Chieko called and said to let Chris know he had an appointment with President Smith of Southern Virginia University the next day at 11 am.  Long story short, Chris met with President Smith, who (on Chieko's recommendation I am sure) admitted him (on academic probation) and here we are with a graduate on our hands!  According to some of the professors I talked to, a graduate that made a contribution to the spirit and culture of a very unique university.


Certainly more important than any degree however is the fact that he found Kenni at SVU.  Married just about 6 months after they met at SVU, now they have Zuri and another on the way!

 Oh, and I forget to mention that Kenni graduated today also!  An art major, her work was prominently featured in a show that was still on display at the alumni house.  It was really fun to see her work.

 Her professor was very effusive in his praise not only of her work and work ethic, but for the influence she had had on the other students.

 Ok, let's take a minute and put a mystery critter into this one.  Some of the Grand-Children are really starting to get a fair amount of cash built up on these!



This bird was seen on campus during the graduation activities.  It is deceptive in it's name, but beautiful in it's song.



President Smith told me last night that Chris represents the "Sweet Spot" for students at SVU.  He is very proud of Chris and Kenni and spoke particularly about Chris' work ethic during college.

 This sentiment was echoed by several of his professors, include Dr. John who was his senior advisor.

Chris is serving as a counselor in the bishopric, and his bishop is the son of a friend of ours, Bruce Olsen who is the public information director for the LDS Church.  Burke Olsen made the same comment about Chris' work ethic when we talked today.

A wonderful day.  I could not be prouder of Chris.