I regard graduation day as the best work day of the year. It is also the most work, but this day holds the reward, the long delayed gratification for our students, their families, our faculty, and for me in my role at Webster as Community Relations Coordinator. I encounter some of them in the inquiry stage, answering the basic questions, then guide them through New Student Orientation at the start of their program. We see most of our students just one day each week. Some graduate so quickly, it seems that they were just in Orientation or an Open House, yet nearly two years have passed. The time passes, most of those who start the process will finish. We are now sliding toward our spring ceremony on May 19th. This year we are fortunate to have the president of the university, Dr. Elizabeth Stroble, as a guest and participant.
Spring 2011 class
Walking in our ceremony is voluntary. As an adult, there are few moments to celebrate publicly, to serve as an example for one’s family, coworkers, and the community. That’s why it’s important for our graduates to participate. We lift them up and challenge them to continue learning, to use what they have learned to make headway in business, in the community, and at home. We thank and acknowledge their families who have been there through the papers, the reading, the presentations, and finals. And the families are so proud, that really is the best part.
One faculty member is nominated to be the receive the Robert D. Hess Distinguished Faculty Award, and one student from each of the two campuses is recognized with the John Feiock Outstanding Graduate Student Award. Some will go on to pursue a doctoral degree, most will not, so this event is their final academic celebration. We strive to make their education the enriching experience they seek. Our hope is that they can continue to look at the world through new and wiser eyes.
Stay tuned for more inspiring stories.
