Faculty, staff and fellow students nominated the recipients, who were cited for their “significant and verifiable impact” on the university and on student life, for their contributions to developing the institution’s positive image, for substantial contributions to the Harrisonburg/Rockingham County area and beyond, for their high academic and social standing and their embodiment of EMU’s shared values of Christian discipleship, community, service and peacebuilding.

They wore gold and blue cords as they graduated Sunday, April 29.

Blue represents strength of conviction that one person can help to create a better institution or community. Gold represents the love of spirit and yearning toward creating a better university environment or community.

The recipients are:

• Benjamin Bailey, Simsbury, Conn., peacebuilding and development, Biblical studies major;
• Brendon Derstine, Harleysville, Pa., history and social science, secondary education licensure;
• Grace Engle, Wauseon, Ohio, social work major;
• Brandon Habron, Fredericksburg, Va., liberal arts major;
• Katie Jantzen, Plymouth, Neb., environmental sustainability;
• Clothilda Johnson, Banjul, The Gambia, nursing major;
• Katherine Landis, Lancaster, Pa., photography, digital media major;
• Rebekah *[last name omitted on request], Pettisville, Ohio, nursing major;
• Michelle Ramirez, Harrisonburg, Va., social work major;
• Andrew Richter, Perkasie, Pa., business administration major.

At ��ݮ����, this year’s Latino Heritage Month theme is “Diferentes pero unidos” (different yet united). Events for the month at EMU include dance lessons on Sept. 23 and 30, followed by the Latino Student Association (LSA) dance on Oct 7. A potluck on Oct. 13, featuring freshly prepared  dishes from several Latin American countries, will close out the month’s celebration.

“‘Diferentes pero unidos,’ invites the whole campus community to consider that in the midst of all our difference we still can come together in a peaceful and understanding way and learn from one another,” said Michelle Ramirez, president of LSA.

David won the Arpa/CORAL best instrumental album of the year in 2005 and 2009, according to his website. He has performed in countries across North, Central and South America, and in parts of Europe and Asia. This will be his third appearance in Harrisonburg.

“David presents a violin concert that reaches every audience’s heart, bringing the message of hope and encouragement to each person who listens to his music,” said Ramirez.

A suggested offering of $15 can be made at the door. Admission for EMU students is free with identification. All proceeds will to toward the Mennonite Hispanic Initiative.

David will hold a music clinic at EMHS on Saturday, Sept. 10, from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Registration is $20. For more information call 540-560-2842.

For more information on the concert and other events during Latino Heritage Month, contact Lorenzana at 540-432-4458 or marvin.lorenzana@emu.edu.