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Lehigh Carbon Community College

Chanda Bell

Reinhardt University alumna Chanda Bell will address the Class of 2018 – including the first class of students earning the Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing – during the Commencement ceremony May 4.

Bell ’94 is the creative visionary and entrepreneur behind the global success Elf on the Shelf. Co-written with her mother, Carol V. Abersold, “Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition” shares the Christmas tradition Bell had in her home as a young child.

“When Dr. Kina Mallard asked me to deliver the commencement address, I was somewhat taken aback because it is such an auspicious occasion,” said Bell. “I’ve had the privilege of speaking to a number of different types of audiences with the focus primarily on starting and growing a family business or perhaps women empowerment but for these graduates, May 4 is likely the most important day of their lives to date. I am excited and honored to return to Reinhardt and hope I will be able to deliver an inspiring and thought-provoking address which will do my alma mater proud.”

Bell will address the class of more than 300 graduates at 9:30 a.m., Friday, May 4 at Ken White Field at University Stadium. Guests are encouraged to come early for parking and seating. Tickets were issued to students for this year’s event. For information about parking, including handicapped parking, visit Reinhardt.edu/Commencement.