ABC Coordinator Dr. Frank Dunkle welcomed the class and the audience in attendance and delivered the invocation. 

Class President Luke Barker addressed the students on the importance of continuing to make God their highest priority. He reminded them that when the school year began there were many uncertainties because of the pandemic, but they had made it a priority to come to ABC to study God’s Word, and they must continue that priority beyond ABC. 

Dean of Students Aaron Dean delivered a graduation address reminding students that “fear is a reaction, but courage is a choice.” In it, he described the history and reputation of Gurkha soldiers who, rather than simply inherit their reputation, continually choose it. Mr. Dean encouraged ABC students to live up to the reputation of Ambassador, and in the days ahead continue to choose courage and devotion to godly values.

The faculty also presented four awards to the students. Luke Barker and Faith Rains received the Ambassador Excellence Awards, and the Council of Elders Service Awards were presented to Collin McCrady and Ashlee Jennings.

Graduates, family and friends gathered outside for the iconic balloon release before taking photos, sharing cake and conversation, and reminiscing on all that they had learned over the past year. Various alumni living in the Cincinnati area volunteered by serving cake, ushering, aiding with set-up and take-down and welcoming the graduates into the now-extensive list of people around the world who have successfully completed the ABC program.

The class of 2021 was grateful the faculty, staff, congregation and all those who help make ABC possible each year.

As we got to know this class through the year, we developed a fondness and respect for them. They are committed to serving in the congregations they return to. ABC is not just about learning what the Bible says; it’s also about the application of that knowledge.

We all look forward to welcoming a new class of students in late August. I want to give special thanks to all the instructors and staff of ABC who made this a most memorable year. If you are interested in attending ABC in the fall, there are still spots available! Visit abc.ucg.org to apply for ABC, view the course catalog and watch the promotional video. Please contact ABC Coordinator Frank Dunkle at frank_dunkle@ucg.org for more information.

A church member owns several houses in the area for the purpose of providing housing to ABC students. Scholarships are also available for those who need assistance.