Class of 2016 graduates from Marywood
Photo credit/ Katlynn Whitaker
May 21, 2016
Students in the Marywood University class of 2016 received their diplomas May 14 at the 98th annual Conferencing of Degrees at Mohegan Sun Arena in Wilkes-Barre.
Doctoral candidates received their degrees first, followed by master’s degree and bachelor’s degree candidates.
According to Marywood’s website, more than 800 students received their degrees at the ceremony.
The graduates walked across the stage and received their degrees from Sr. Anne Munley IHM, Ph.D., president of the university.
This was Sr. Anne’s last commencement ceremony as president as she announced her retirement in January.
Sr. Anne said in her address that Marywood will continue to prosper under the leadership of the next president, Sr. Mary Persico, IHM, Ed.D.
“I’m deeply grateful to the Marywood community,” said Sr. Anne.
Sr. Anne addressed the graduates, encouraging them to continue to learn and be creative.
“I want to encourage you to always nurture your love of learning, but most especially your creative spirit,” said Sr. Anne.
She also encouraged the graduates to follow their dreams.
“All of you are well prepared and remarkably gifted,” said Sr. Anne. “My hope is that you will continue always to go confidently in the direction of your dreams and live the life that you have imagined.”
Sr. Andrea Lee, IHM, Ph.D., president of St. Catherine University and a member of the Marywood University Board of Trustees, received an honorary degree from Marywood.
According to Alan Levine, Ph.D., vice president of Academic Affairs, Sr. Andrea received this distinction based on her “considerable and continuing contributions to the cause of human enlightenment, human enrichment and human progress to a society of peace and justice.”
Sr. Andrea also delivered the commencement address.
She gave the graduates life advice on topics including working and communicating with others.
“You are uniquely you, one in a universe of folks,” said Sr. Andrea. “Your contributions to your work, your family and your community will be significant and truly yours, but they will be enhanced, better and more significant when joined with the work of others.”
Sr. Andrea also told the graduates to take risks.
“Consider implications, of course, but trust your gut. More often than not it is right,” Sr. Andrea said. “Take that risk, especially when human beings, happiness or love are concerned.”
Sr. Andrea also told the graduates to communicate personally with people, telling them that late night phone calls and heartfelt conversations are better than texts and emails.
Robert Ide, president of the Alumni Association, welcomed the graduates to the alumni association after they received their degrees.
“As you leave with your diploma, your strong affiliation to Marywood doesn’t end,” Ide told the graduates. “It stays with you for life.”
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