Yesterday David officially became Dr. Batchelor. He has worked so hard over 14 years to reach this milestone. It's so amazing to look back on how much work he has done and all the steps he has gone through to accomplish this. He finally admitted to me about six months ago that there was a time when he thought he wouldn't be able to do it. While I often got frustrated with the length of the process, I never doubted that he would be able to do it. He is the smartest and most talented person I know.
He even looks smarter from the back.
I sometimes forget how much history is involved at the University of South Carolina. It really is an amazing school. As part of the graduation ceremony, an official mace is used. From the USC website: The brilliantly gleaming silver and gilt mace is nearly four feet long. Mounted on the head are the seals of the University, the state of South Carolina, and the Great Seal of the United States. From the middle of these arises a stylistic representation of the state tree, the palmetto, the fronds of which are formed by a group of 13 stars, representing the founding colonies that include South Carolina. The shaft is decorated with eight stars, reminding us that South Carolina was the eighth state to enter the Union.
Walking the walk.
Getting hooded.
Shaking hands with Dr. Bain who was David's doctoral advisor and was very patient and helpful with David throughout the rocess. After graduation, Dr. Bain told David he "set the record" for finishing, which is amazing because it has taken us five years - an eternity! The composition doctorate is really difficult to receive.
I was so grateful that my parents could be there. They have been so supportive of us in every way. Having earned a doctorate himself, my dad understands more than anyone in our family what David has been through.
HALLELUJAH!
Celebratory snacks.
1 comment:
Wahoo!! Tell him Congrats for me.
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