Dr. Sylvia Nadler gave graduates tips on finding their calling throughout life during Saturday's (May 18) commencement ceremony at Wayland Baptist University's Plainview Campus. Nadler, a 1971 WBU graduate and chairman of the physical education department at William Jewell College, used a story about an Outward Bound trip to the Florida Everglades to illustrate her points.

"Finding your gifts, your authentic self and your place of service is a lifetime process," she said. "Only you can know that you know that you are who you are meant to be and are doing what you are meant to do."

Nadler said finding one's calling involves a willingness to face fears, step out of the comfort zone and make space where one can be quiet and listen to the inner voice. She also said having a passion is key.

"Look for your calling at the intersection of your passion and the needs of your chosen community," she said. "Your gifts can be used in a variety of arenas."

Senior Bryan Bundick of Odessa also touched on passion in his student address. Using vignettes about Martin Luther King, Jr., missionary William Carey and a toilet manufacturer, Bundick urged his fellow grads to find what they are passionate about and set out to change the world. He concluded with the words of Winston Churchill, "Never give up."

A total of 102 students received diplomas in the ceremony, with eight earning master's degrees. Lindsay Mason, senior accounting major from Amarillo, was recognized as the graduate with the highest grade point average.