Waynesburg University honored its Commencement speakers during its Commencement Exercises Sunday, May 4.
Jeffrey Arnold, Executive Director of the Association of Presbyterian Colleges and Universities, served as the Baccalaureate speaker and Toby Rice, President and Chief Executive Officer of EQT Corporation, served as the Commencement speaker. Both were awarded Doctor of Humane Letters degrees.
The following citations were read:
Jeffery E. Arnold
Jeffrey E. Arnold, in recognition of your unwavering dedication to higher education and your steadfast commitment to faith-inspired institutions, Waynesburg University honors you.
As Executive Director of the Association of Presbyterian Colleges and Universities, you have championed the growth and success of 50 member institutions, serving more than 150,000 students each year. Your vision has fostered collaboration and innovation through strategic partnerships and leadership development programs that strengthen Christian higher education.
Your extensive career of more than 40 years reflects a deep commitment to supporting students and institutions. From presenting at leading educational conferences to authoring impactful grant proposals, your contributions have left an indelible mark on the academic landscape.
Your dedication to service is evident in your leadership as Chair of the Executives in Church Related Higher Education and as an engaged member of the New Wilmington Rotary Club and the Presbyterian Church (USA). Your passion for fostering faith-based education and community enrichment is a shining example to others.
In gratitude and respect for your outstanding accomplishments and for the ways in which you embody the Waynesburg University mission of faith, learning, and serving, it is with great honor that we confer upon you our degree of Doctor of Humane Letters.
Toby Z. Rice
Toby Z. Rice, in recognition of your visionary leadership, commitment to innovation, and dedication to your life’s calling, Waynesburg University honors you.
As President and Chief Executive Officer of EQT Corporation, you have transformed the organization into a leader in sustainable energy, demonstrating both operational excellence and environmental responsibility. Your strategic focus on efficiency and innovation has positioned EQT as “America’s Natural Gas Champion,” providing cleaner, more reliable energy.
Beyond your corporate leadership, your important work with the EQT Foundation exemplifies the importance of aligning business success with stewardship of the communities in which you are engaged.
By leading with integrity and inspiring others to pursue innovative solutions, you continue to make a profound impact on the industry and society.
In gratitude and respect for your accomplishments and the ways in which you parallel the Waynesburg University mission of faith, learning, and serving, it is with great honor that we confer upon you our degree of Doctor of Humane Letters.
About Waynesburg University
Consistently ranked a best value school, Waynesburg University’s Strategy for the 21st Century affirms its commitment to developing an entrepreneurial mindset and ethical leadership skills for all students. Rooted in its mission of faith, learning and service, the private, Christian university is located on a traditional campus in the hills of southwestern Pennsylvania, with an additional site for graduate and professional programs in Southpointe.
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