Congratulations Class of 2024
We all remember the first time each student arrived at Shepherds College®. We remember their nervousness about being away from home and making new friends, mixed with the excitement of a new chance at independence. From their first night on campus to their last day here, we have the unique privilege of watching our students grow in responsibility, impact, and potential. Over their three short years at the college, we are excited to learn about their lives, share in their new experiences, and create lasting memories together.
Whether in student-facing roles or support staff, we are all deeply impacted by our students and learn as much from them as they do from us. Despite the busyness of our own lives, we come to Shepherds College with the mindset that this is a calling from God—not just a job—because of our students. Every student we have met has made a positive impact on our lives. Each brings unique gifts and talents that create lasting changes for the staff and within their community.
When graduation day arrives, there isn’t a dry eye among the staff. We are thrilled by our students’ achievements and newfound independence, but we will also deeply miss their presence. The heartfelt goodbyes on graduation day resonate with us for years and inspire us to continue impacting the lives of more students. Though the goodbyes are bittersweet, we, the staff of Shepherds College, are profoundly grateful for our students and the honor of being part of their journey towards Appropriate Independence™.
Written by Arianna Tilson, Life Skills Coach
ALEX
Alex, Your journey at Shepherds College has been a testament to your hard work, determination, and spirit. You’ve proven that anything is possible with perseverance and belief in yourself. As you move forward in life, let God’s guiding
light illuminate your path as you continue to inspire others. Congratulations on your graduation!
– Mom, Dad, Matt, and Ben
HOPIE
To our sweet Hopie!
You were so brave to go far from home and attend college. You’ve been faithful to work hard, learn, and grow into a beautiful, smart, and independent young woman. You are a hero and example to us all.
We love you, and we’re so proud
of you!
– Mom, Dad, Addie, & Family
MOLLY
Congratulations, Molly!
We are so proud of you.
You will be successful in all you do.
We love you!
Love,
Mom, Dad, Lauren, Steven, and all your family everywhere
MARIA
Best Day Ever, Maria!
Congratulations on your graduation from Shepherds College!
Remember that the way to know
life is to love many things.
– Vincent Van Gogh
May your future be full of love
and happiness.
God Bless You Always! We Love You!
Dad, Mom, Joshua, Marissa, & Yona
HANNAH
Psalm 91:2
I will say to the Lord,
“My refuge and my fortress,
My God, in whom I trust.”
Hannah, your strength is your faith. You have God and God has you.
LIBBIE
Libbie, we’re so proud of you.
God has blessed you – we know others see His light in you. It’s been such a joy to watch you grow in confidence at Shepherds. Now we’re so excited for your graduation and to see you walk in faith as God guides and directs your next path.
We love you,
Mom & Dad
STEPHEN
Congratulations on graduating
from college, Stevie! We are
so proud of you for this huge
accomplishment and of how
much you have grown in the
last three years.
We love you so much!
– Mom, Dad, Bro, and Sis
SARAH
We are so proud to see how you
have blossomed and grown these
past three years at Shepherds
College. We are excited to see you
bloom at Weston Bridges and in
your career in horticulture.
Congratulations, Sarah, we love you!
– Mom, Dad, & Matthew
JESSICA
Jessica, We are so proud of you
and all of your accomplishments.
Your hard work, determination,
and perseverance have helped
you achieve an amazing goal.
You are ready to begin the next
chapter of your life with confidence.
Remember that “With God, all things
are possible” – Matthew 19:26
– Love, Mom, Dad, Melissa,
Braxton, and Courtney
LANA
Congratulations Lana!
It has been amazing to watch
you grow and blossom in your faith,
friendships, and education
at Shepherds College!!
We pray that you will continue
to shine and share in God’s Light
and God’s Love!
Love from all your Family!
“Give thanks to the Lord, for he
is good! His faithful love endures
forever.” – Psalm 136
SASHA
“Be strong and courageous. Do not
be afraid; do not be discouraged, for
the Lord your God will be with you
wherever you go.” – Joshua 1:9
Sasha, We are so proud of all your
accomplishments! We are excited
to see the plans God has for you!
You are such a huge blessing in our
lives! We love you so very much!
– Mom and Dad
AMBER
Amber, we are so proud of you for
graduating from Shepherds College.
We have watched you grow and
learn so many new things over
these last three years. Now it’s on to
the next adventure God has for you!
We love you
– Dad, Mom, April, Destin, Amy,
Mark, Andrew, Macy, grandparents,
aunts, uncles, and ten nieces
and nephews!
XAVIER
Xavier has weathered storms, emerging stronger and more steadfast. From adverse beginnings to this triumphant milestone, his story echoes the very essence of perseverance. As he steps into a new chapter, we envision greatness−a destiny illuminated by the Lord’s abundant blessings. Congratulations, Xavier! May your path be adorned with boundless grace and endless possibilities.
– From Z, Lynna, and Julius
BLAKE
Congratulations on your graduation, Blake! Your hard work and determination have shined brightly, and you’ve proven that nothing can limit your potential. As you step into this new chapter of life, remember that you are capable of achieving great things. Keep dreaming big
and reaching for the stars!
We are all incredibly proud of you!
– Don and Ayla Bizub
LEO
We congratulate you, Leo, on a job well done. We are proud of all your work and effort these last three years. You left Kazakhstan to embark on a new adventure. The Lord gave you that and more−a stronger faith, friends, and a future. We love you so much. May you spread your wings and soar.
Love, Mom and Dad
MALLORY
Congratulations, Mallory! You’ve done so very well, and we are so very proud of you, dear daughter. Our hearts are full of love and excitement as we look forward to you starting this new chapter of your life.
“Be who God meant you to be, and you will set the world on fire.”
– St. Catherine of Siena
LIV
Philippians 4:13
“I can do all things through Him
who strengthens me.”
We are so proud of you, Liv! Graduating college was always
your dream, and you have achieved your goal!
We love you so much,
Mom, Dad, and Evan
DAVID
D – Determined to succeed
A – Authentic and true
V – Values his family
I – Immovable in his beliefs
D – Determined to succeed
“Don’t you be afraid, for I am with you; don’t be dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you.” Isaiah 41:10
Isaiah 40:31
“but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
EULA
GABE
ABBY
ALEX
JULIA
RAY
SADE
EDEN
ELI