Cedar City » Anna Cunningham received her associate degree in science Saturday during commencement exercises at Southern Utah University -- and in three weeks, she'll get her high school diploma.
The 18-year-old from Cedar City received her early college degree through the success academy program.
"It's a matter of timing," she said of getting a degree before her diploma from Canyon View High School. She said she'll be back at SUU for her bachelor's degree in science.
After the ceremony, she posed for pictures next to a statue of Marie Curie and with her father, Tom, a professor of education at SUU.
Cunningham was one of 1,767 students to receive an associate, bachelor's or master's degree during the 112th commencement at the school. The graduates were addressed by Thomas S. Monson, president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Natalie Brooke Gunn, the student speaker, asked the graduates what they plan to do next. "You are not the next generation, you are the generation," she said. You are the theorists, scientists and writers. What can you do to improve mankind?"
She reminded her class that greatness can come not only from fame, but from simple gestures of kindness and recognition of others.
SUU President Michael Benson reflected on the commitment and sacrifice of those who started the Branch Normal School, as SUU was originally named. "They set the foundation that continues to be built upon," he said.
Monson's speech was focused on the roads through yesterday, today and tomorrow.
"The past is behind, learn from it," he said. "Remember that the roads you travel so briskly lead out of dim antiquity, and you study the past chiefly because of its bearing on the living present and its promise for the future."
Monson also urged graduates to prepare for the future by keeping up with challenges in a rapidly-changing culture. The present, he said, is to be lived in.
"This is an age when man moves toward solving the mysteries of the highest heavens and deepest oceans," he said.
Monson was awarded an honorary doctorate, along with noted landscape painter Jimmie Jones. Edward Rondthaler was awarded an honorary degree posthumously for his contributions to the community and philanthropy.
