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Voorhees University Hosts Baccalaureate/Hooding Ceremony Featuring Reverend Dr. Da’Henri Thurmond as Guest Speaker

 Denmark, S.C. – Voorhees University is proud to announce its upcoming Baccalaureate/Hooding ceremony scheduled for Friday, May 3rd, at 6:00 PM. The ceremony will take place at Massachusetts Hall Auditorium, located at 151 Academic Circle, Denmark, SC 29042.

This year’s ceremony holds special significance as it not only celebrates the academic achievements of Voorhees University’s graduating class but also marks a milestone moment for the esteemed class of 1974, who will be honored with a certificate ceremony.

Rev. Dr. Da’Henri R. Thurmond, Sr., a distinguished figure renowned for his contributions to the community and academia, will grace the occasion as the guest speaker. Hailing from Augusta, Georgia, his journey is marked by academic excellence and a commitment to service.

A magna cum laude graduate of Georgia Southern University, Reverend Thurmond furthered his education at the Medical College of Georgia, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy. His academic prowess led to his induction into esteemed honor societies such as the Gamma Beta Phi Honor Society and the IMHOTEP society.

Continuing his academic pursuits, Reverend Thurmond earned a Master’s in Divinity from the Interdenominational Theological Center, Phillips School of Theology, where he received prestigious scholarships and awards. In 2020, he achieved his Doctorate of Ministry from United Theological Seminary in Dayton, Ohio, specializing in Developing Leadership for Effective Programming in the Post-Modern Generation. 

Beyond academia, Reverend Thurmond has distinguished himself in various professional capacities, including roles as a Respiratory Therapy Supervisor and a Senior Clinical Oncology Specialist within Pharmaceutical/Biologic Sales.

Reverend Thurmond’s commitment to serving the community is evident through his leadership roles in various organizations, including serving as Chair of the Joint Board of Finance for the Central Georgia Region and as a member of the General Connectional Board of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church.

Since July 2009, Reverend Thurmond has served as Senior Pastor at St. Paul C.M.E. Church in Savannah, Georgia. His dedication also extends to advocacy and interfaith initiatives, as evidenced by his involvement in organizations like the African American Ministers Leadership Coalition and the Savannah Alliance of Pastors. 

Reverend Thurmond’s fraternal affiliations include memberships in Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity and the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, reflecting his commitment to brotherhood and community upliftment.

Voorhees University is honored to have Rev. Dr. Da’Henri R. Thurmond, Sr. as the guest speaker for this significant occasion and invites the community to join in celebrating the achievements of its graduating class.

For more information about the Baccalaureate/Hooding ceremony, please contact Willie Jefferson at 803.780.1049 or williej@voorhees.edu.

About Voorhees University

Voorhees University, founded by Elizabeth Evelyn Wright in 1897, is a private, coeducational institution affiliated with the Episcopal Church and the United Negro College Fund. The university is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award baccalaureate and graduate degrees. Its mission is to produce highly qualified graduates who coalesce intellect and faith in pursuit of life-long learning, healthy living, the betterment of society, and an abiding faith in God. U.S. News & World Report has ranked Voorhees as a #1 best value, #3 in social mobility and #33 among regional colleges in the south in 2022-2023; and #26 among Historically Black Colleges and Universities, nationally. Additional information about Voorhees University can be found at www.voorhees.edu.

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