Tyehimba Ceremony Honors Graduates-of-Color and Those That Assisted Them

Chip Murdock: 'Your graduation is my payday!' Chip Murdock said those multicultural students that will graduate May 7 represent “strength, success and hope” to all those that have been part of their journey at Wilmington College. (PICTURED) Senior Chris Jackson, a soon-to-be graduate, receives a sash symbolizing his African heritage from his father, Solomon Jackson, during the Tyehimba ceremony. Chip Murdock and Jim Reynolds are observing in the background. “You’re survivors,” said Murdock, director of multicultural affairs. “And I believe in you and I love you. I receive monetary compensation once a month but I get paid once a year. Your graduation is my payday! You are a fulfilled promise and the fruit of our labor.” The occasion for Murdock’s powerful words Thursday evening (April 21) was Tyehimba, a ceremony with African roots that recognizes the heritage of those that are on the verge of accomplishing a significant milestone in their lives. The self-described, 16 graduates-of-color have family roots not only in Africa but also in Kenya, Puerto Rico, Mexico and Jamaica. “Tyehimba also celebrates the families and friends of those graduates who will soon be walking across the stage,” he added. Junior Ja’Cole Tabor, president of Black Student Initiative, congratulated the soon-to-be graduates for overcoming obstacles, but left them with a hope that they “learned compassion for others.” President Jim Reynolds thanked the students for the contributions they’ve made to the campus. “It’s a special privilege to be a college-educated person,” he said, noting that, in the United States, some 35 percent of citizens hold that distinction. “Take the values we’ve instilled and never compromise those values. Remember the sacrifice your family and friends made to help you to get to this point. “Each of you holds a special place in my heart.” 1979 alumnus and College trustee William Shoecraft said the world is diverse and, in order to grow, one must surround himself/herself with diverse persons: those that don’t look like you, aren’t the same age as you and persons that don’t think like you. “Your journey continues and your future is bright,” Shoecraft said. “Don’t stop achieving. Don’t stop taking risks. Don’t stop exploring. Don’t stop dreaming. Leave here as mature critical thinkers, proud volunteers, global contributors and passionate alumni of Wilmington College.”