Four new graduates of the Holy Names University’s Sophia Center MA in Culture and Spirituality were honored Monday night, December 10, at the traditional Orchard Night.

Orchard Night is a Sophia Center tradition, a ritual presented by graduates each semester.This year’s Orchard Night, attended by 45 people, included dance, singing, skits, story telling and Tai Chi.

Michelle Dwyer, Tai Chi teacher in HNU’s MA in Culture and Spirituality program for the past 20 years, received special recognition. She also led the graduates in a Tai Chi demonstration.

Graduates presenting various skits were Inhee Kim, SND, of South Korean, Anne Itotia, RSM, of Kenya, and Constancia Mbogam of Tanzania. Tom Christian of Massachusetts also is graduating at mid-year. Carmel Bracken, RSM, a Sophia student, sang and led the group in song and dance.

The graduates honored Dwyer and other faculty members including Dody Donnelly,PhD; Mary Schmitt, PhD; Massanko Kamsis Banda, MA; and Catherine Firpo, PhD. They also gave gifts to the Sophia Center staff, Director and faculty member Jim Conlon, PhD; Jane Heckathorn and Marilyn Goddard.

Students Tom Christopher and Noirin Long, RSM, were emcees for the evening.