"When dawn spreads its paintbrush on the plain, spilling purple... ," Sons of the Pioneers theme for TV show "Wagon Train." Dawn on the mythic Santa Fe Trail, New Mexico, looking toward Raton from Cimarron. -- Clarkphoto. A curmudgeon artist's musings melding metaphors and journalism, for readers in more than 150 countries.

Tuesday, May 9, 2017

Graduation...beginnings, not just endings, and hugs

After the ceremony at UCO...time for family, friends, loved ones, lots of smiles and hugs
Graduations are beginnings, not just endings. This one at UCO was my last, but also a beginning for my students and for myself, avoiding the dreaded "R" word. 
So here are some photos of the people who matter, plus a few from my last class and Vista two weeks ago. And yes, the hugs matter.
Jade Braun, quirky, creative
My students come from many different heritages, beliefs and personalities. Home-schooled, private and public schooled, Christians, Muslims, Caucasian, African-American, Indian, Asian, Malaysian, Canadian, not especially religious, atheists, liberal, conservative, type As, quirky creative rule breakers, young, more mature, veterans, Okies and many states. 
My joy has been in earning the respect of them all. Some I've had in several classes, some only one or two. On graduation day, I get to meet husbands, wives, boyfriends, girlfriends, parents, grandparents on graduation. They matter.

Misty Jordan, Christian and smiling
Jake Searock, U.S. Army Afghanistan vet
Megan Prather, who wants to work for AP

Pam Todd, a leader in every class


Mark Zimmerman, friend and colleague before ceremony

Moose Tyler, creative dynamo and colleague

Last class, International Media

Jennifer Byrd, a professional

"Sam"atha Marcus, spunky and serious

Evonne Wong,  Malaysian coffee drinker

The Vista at Hideaway, my treat, and honor
Graduation from @okieprof's seat, with Jennifer Byrd getting diploma

1 comment:

  1. Thank you Dr. Clark for all of your words of wisdom, inspiration, and motivation through my time at UCO. It has truly been an honor and a pleasure getting to know you, and learn from you. My only regret is not taking more classes from you during my time at UCO. I hope to see you out and about relaxing somewhere, after graduation. No one could ever replace you, and you have truly left your mark on many. Thank you for leaving your mark in my heart as well. Wishing you well on your new adventure,"retirement". Enjoy the journey - Dr. Clark.
    Sincerely, Pam Todd

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