“This is the best diploma I’ve ever received.”

It wasn’t exactly a diploma that Donna Thompson received when her named was announced during a CIU chapel. As a matter of fact, the recognition didn’t even require class credits. But after 20 years of friendship and counsel to female students, Thompson has now “graduated” to the status of Honorary CIU Alumna.

Thompson, who has served as dean of women, chaplain to women, and assistant dean for spiritual formation (women), was all smiles after the surprise proclamation was made, bringing Thompson and Jay, her husband of 44 years, to the stage.

“I love this place and it has been a humble privilege to serve here,” Thompson said after the Chapel, noting her calling to touch women’s lives through “mentoring, dicipling relationships.”

“Which is why I still have so many alum who still bless me,” Thompson added. “The intentionality and the opportunity to humbly pour into these people’s lives for God’s glory. And I learn from them. So, it has been a mutual edification process.”

A plaque noting Thompson’s honor was presented to her by Alumni Director Peggy Lee Manoogian and Vice President Diane Mull in recognition of Thompson’s “faithful service to our students … and continued ministry to our alumni worldwide.” It also noted Thompson’s “heart for dicipling, guiding, caring and praying” for those under her care … and her “willingness to go above and beyond” as well as her “godly example of putting Christ first above all else.”

Community is at the heart of CIU with care for the spiritual well-being of each student. With record enrollment for five straight years, CIU consistently ranks among the Top Regional Universities in the South by U.S. News & World Report, as well as a Best Value Regional University in the South. Apply now or request information on enrollment by contacting Admissions at (803) 807-5024 or admissions@ciu.edu.