Doors Open to a New School Year

On August 17, the grand music of bagpipes announced the beginning of a new year at Florida College. The 2008 academic year was ushered in with students new to the campus, many parents who once attended the College, and faculty members dressed in traditional regalia—inside the iconic Hutchinson Auditorium.

The ceremonies began traditionally with the singing of the hymn “I’m Not Ashamed to Own My Lord,” and a devotional talk from Psalm 19 led by Biblical Studies Chair Daniel Petty ’72. Temple Terrace mayor Joseph Affronti, Sr. continued the city’s custom of welcoming students to the community.

Florida College leaders addressed the audience of new students, taking different approaches to the meaning of this year’s theme, “opening doors.” The idea is taken from a passage in the book of Revelation, and the new residence halls on campus serve as an appropriate metaphor.

Dean of Students Doug Barlar spoke on the idea of “opening doors to your present,” persuading students that there are countless service opportunities immediately open to them. Academic Dean H.E. “Buddy” Payne ’65 addressed the idea of “opening doors to your mind.” He assured students that the aim of the faculty is to help students see God better through their various academic disciplines.

Junior Ben Metzger, this year’s SBGA president, talked about “opening doors to your campus community.” He observed that there is a multiplicity of sources one can seek to discover how to make friends—but none better than Christ’s “golden rule.”

Ralph Walker ’74, director of public relations, reminded students that open doors carry responsibility. As a representative of FC alumni, staff, and parents, he also emphasized “what an absolutely unique place [FC] is.”

In his concluding remarks, President C.G. “Colly” Caldwell ’63 told students, “I hope these open doors will provide for you opportunities that will last a lifetime,” opportunities that include degrees, careers, and life mates. His greatest hope, though, is for students to “walk with Jesus through the open door of eternal life.”