About the size of a small coin, the Averett University pin is blue with the institution’s logo shown prominently in gold. Yet, it isn’t the physical stature of the pin that stands out. It is about what the pin represents — the journey of learning and the transformation of a student during their time at Averett.
Averett held its annual senior pinning ceremony Thursday, Sept. 24, as 89 students lined up to receive their pins in Pritchett Auditorium in the Violet T. Frith Fine Arts Center.
“The pin you are about to receive serves as a tangible reminder of your important connection to this university,” Averett Provost Dr. Julie Brown said. “It symbolizes not only the remarkable progress you have made during your years here, but also the grit you’ve demonstrated along the way — the countless times you showed up when you didn’t feel ready, the tenacity you displayed when the work felt overwhelming, and the determination you summoned to keep moving forward. This pin stands as a token of the trust you have earned as students and scholars who have learned not just to think, but to persevere.”
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During the ceremony, each senior was pinned by an individual they select from Averett’s faculty or staff.
Averett President Dr. Tatia Daniels Granger, who arrived at the university in August, shared that this year’s senior class has already inspired her in the short time she has been on campus.
“What I’ve already learned from you is that you are resilient,” Granger said. “You’ve stretched yourselves in the classroom and beyond, pushed through tough courses, intense practice schedules and late nights, and discovered strengths you may not have known you had. You’ve given your time in service to this campus and to Danville and beyond, and in the process, you’ve grown into exceptional citizen-leaders. That kind of growth, in both intellect and character, is the heart of an Averett education, and it will serve you long after you leave this place because you will carry that growth with you.”
Averett alumnus Joel Nester ’00, ’12, served as the ceremony’s speaker. Nester challenged the senior class to not think of the pin they receive as a finish line.
“You haven’t completed the journey yet,” Nester said. “This pin represents the beginning of your final chapter as students — and the beginning of your transition into the professionals you are preparing to become. That’s an important distinction because your senior year isn’t simply about checking off the last requirements for your degree. It’s about taking everything you’ve learned over the past several years and beginning to see how it all fits together.”
Averett chaplain Sean Timmons offered the prayer during the ceremony, and seniors were invited to a reception immediately following the event.
To watch the senior pinning ceremony in full, click here.
To view the photo gallery from senior pinning, click here.
