I recently witnessed a moment that perfectly captures the heart of the Davis & Elkins College experience. I saw it more than 150 times last Friday, and it has stayed with me ever since.
Harper-McNeeley Auditorium was filled for the baccalaureate service on the eve of commencement. The highlight of this worship service is the hooding ceremony, where each graduate selects a faculty or staff member to place their academic hood on their shoulders. This individual represents someone who has had a profound impact on the student’s journey—a mentor, guide, and source of support. Among our community, it is one of the highest honors.
Time and again—over 150 times—I watched as a graduate walked across the stage, their academic hood draped over one arm. Standing behind them, their chosen mentor placed the hood over their head and gently adjusted the regalia, ensuring it was just right. This moment, rich with tradition, speaks volumes. And yet, the most powerful moment was still to come.
Over and over, I witnessed graduates—now robed in academic pride—turn with a broad smile to embrace their professor, coach, or staff member. Some embraces were long and tearful, others quick and full of laughter, but every single one radiated pride, gratitude, and shared celebration.
I believe that embrace is the very reason Davis & Elkins College exists. With the power of a relationship on full display, it is the quintessential moment that encapsulates four years of a high quality transformative educational experience.
Our professors and staff do more than teach or guide—they walk alongside students through challenges and triumphs. These bonds go far beyond roles and titles. We are a college where people know your name, but more importantly, they know your story. They care deeply about your success and your growth.
This connection is part of our culture. Yes, our small size helps, but it is our intentional focus on personal relationships that makes the difference. The emotions in that embrace represent years of encouragement, learning, and support.
In that embrace, we celebrate not just an ending, but the joy of the journey. Every student arrived at D&E from a unique background, and here they found opportunity—opportunity to learn, grow, and discover their purpose. They met faculty and staff who changed their lives. They built friendships with classmates from nearby towns and distant countries who broadened their horizons. They engaged new perspectives, challenged assumptions, and encountered timeless truths. Their time here has shaped who they are and who they will become.
Now their journey continues. New places and new experiences await. Yet Davis & Elkins will always be a part of who they are—just as each of them will always remain a part of Davis & Elkins.
It may have been only an embrace, but within that simple act lay the story of a shared journey, of transformation, and of deep, abiding connection. I will never forget the story it told—and will continue to tell for generations to come.
As this “Reflections Along the Journey” column takes a summer break, I hope each of us can find moments of joy, rest, and renewal in the weeks ahead.
The journey continues…
Chris A. Wood
President
Davis & Elkins College
