Elon University will honor winter graduates from the School of Law and School of Health Sciences in two ceremonies on Dec. 12.
Elon University will celebrate graduates from the university’s School of Law and School of Health Sciences in two ceremonies on Friday, Dec. 12.
The School of Law candidates for Juris Doctor will receive their diplomas at 10 a.m., and the School of Health Sciences candidates for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Accelerated Program), Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies and Doctor of Physical Therapy will receive their diplomas at 2 p.m. in ceremonies that will take place in Alumni Gym, in the Koury Athletic Center.
Justice Philip Berger Jr., whose legal career includes experience as a prosecutor and top state jurist, will address 136 graduates in the School of Law ceremony. Berger has served on the Supreme Court of North Carolina since 2021. His career in public service spans more than two decades, including roles as Rockingham County district attorney, North Carolina administrative law judge and a judge on the North Carolina Court of Appeals. Berger is also an adjunct professor at Elon Law, teaching courses in administrative law and evidence.

Charity Johnansson, professor of physical therapy education, will address the graduates from the School of Health Sciences. Johansson is a physical therapist with over 40 years of experience as an educator and practitioner in the field of healthcare. She is a certified Geriatric Clinical Specialist and has published and presented widely on psychosocial aspects of healthcare, geriatrics and transformative education. Her co-authored textbook, “Mobility in Context,” is used in physical therapy programs across the country.

Visit Elon’s Commencement website for more information about the Winter commencement ceremonies.
Elon will also host a variety of affinity celebrations on Thursday, Dec. 12.
Lavender Graduation
Lakeside Meeting Rooms | 9:30 a.m.
Lavender Celebration honors graduates who are undergraduate, graduate or professional students at Elon University who have contributed to LGBTQIA inclusion on campus. Registration is required. Graduates should check their email for more details.
¡Celebremos!: Graduates Take Flight
Lakeside Meeting Rooms | 11 a.m.
An annual stole ceremony dedicated to celebrating the efforts and successes of the graduating undergraduate and graduate students, with a focus on the Latinx/Hispanic Community. Registration is required. Graduates should check their email for more details.
Donning of the Kente
Lakeside Meeting Rooms | 2 p.m.
A traditional ceremony where graduating seniors receive stoles made of Kente cloth imported from West Africa. Registration is required. Graduates should check their email for more details.
Nursing Pinning Ceremony
Whitley Auditorium | 6 p.m.
Graduating Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing students will have their white coats pinned in this ceremony, followed by a reception and faculty meet-and-greet. The Department of Nursing will share invitations with participants.