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Cross to Speak at Lee University Summer Commencement

Cleveland, TN (07/24/2026) — Lee University will hold its 197th commencement ceremonies July 31 to August 1. Dr. Terry L. Cross, dean of Lee's School of Theology & Ministry, will deliver the commencement address on Saturday morning at 10:30 in the Conn Center.

"Few individuals have left a deeper imprint on Lee University than Dr. Terry Cross," said Lee President Dr. Phil Cook. "Through decades of faithful teaching, scholarship, and leadership, he has helped shape generations of students. His impact extends well beyond the School of Theology & Ministry, as countless students benefitted from his wisdom, humility, and commitment to Christian scholarship. We are honored to welcome one of Lee's most respected professors and enduring voices as our commencement speaker."

A 1978 graduate of Lee and distinguished professor of theology, Cross returned to his alma mater to teach in 1997 and was appointed dean of the School of Theology & Ministry in 2002. He is the longest-serving dean in the university's history.

For nearly three decades, Cross has served Lee students through teaching, mentoring, and leadership, helping prepare students to faithfully answer their callings and serve the church and their communities. He has been recognized with Lee's Excellence in Teaching Award and Excellence in Scholarship Award and was named among "Who's Who Among American Teachers."

Cross earned a doctorate in systematic theology and a Master of Theology in doctrinal theology from Princeton Theological Seminary. He also holds a Master of Arts in church history and a Master of Divinity in theology from Ashland Theological Seminary, as well as a Bachelor of Arts in biblical education from Lee. Cross is an ordained bishop in the Church of God.

Lee's summer commencement is one of three graduation ceremonies held each year at the university.

On Saturday morning, 73 undergraduate and 57 graduate students are expected to receive degrees during the ceremony. Of the 57 graduate students, nine will receive doctoral degrees.

Graduation festivities will begin with a hooding ceremony for students earning master's, education specialist, and doctoral degrees on Friday, July 31, at 4:30 p.m. This service is a ticketed event and will take place in the Cornerstone Chapel on Lee's campus.

The hooding and commencement ceremonies will be available for livestream viewing at leeu.live.

For more information about commencement exercises, contact the Academic Events Office at graduation@leeuniversity.edu or visit leeuniversity.edu/academics/graduation-info.

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Dr. Terry Cross

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