Posted on Saturday, May 19, 2001
Nearly 315 students earned diplomas during the 147th annual ¾¨Ó㴫ý commencement ceremonies Saturday afternoon on the Senior Terrace.
The celebration began at Baccalaureate service at 10:30 a.m. in Orr Auditorium with several numbers on the organ by Dr. Elizabeth Harrison, assistant professor of music and college organist at ¾¨Ó㴫ý, and an anthem by members of a senior class choral group.
Following the baccalaureate service, ¾¨Ó㴫ý hosted a family barbecue for nearly 1,000 guests on the south end of the main quadrangle on campus.
Honorary degrees were awarded to: Robert Abernethy, veteran NBC television news correspondent who created and developed Religion & Ethics Newsweekly, the award-winning half-hour PBS television news magazine that covers all religions, received a Doctor of Human Letters; Lester R. Brown, president and senior researcher with Worldwatch Institute, a private, non-profit Washington-based research institute devoted to the analysis of global environmental and environmentally related issues, received a Doctor of Science; and Marion L. Furlong, chief executive officer of Lark Enterprises, Inc., which is a vocational rehabilitation agency that provides training and work opportunities for individuals with special employment needs, received a Doctor of Public Service.
Each of the honorary degree recipients shared brief messages with the graduates.
"As you members of the Class of 2001 go on to graduate school, or go to work, or whatever it is you have in mind, there is one bit of encouragement I would like to offer," said Abernethy. "It is to be open to doing something that might seem a little risky. It is to be willing to take a chance."
"It's important to do what you want to do," said Brown. "Life is too precious to do otherwise. Do not fear failure. It's time for you to go out and celebrate the great education you have received here at ¾¨Ó㴫ý."
"I believe there is a right job for everyone, but not necessarily the first one you get," said Furlong. "When interviewing, it's important to observe the individuals who work there. Ask yourself, are they friendly&do they seem relaxed&do they communicate well with their co-workers? Go and find a job that makes you happy."
Sarah M. Miller, a biology major from Beaver Falls, gave remarks on behalf of the senior class.
Degrees were confirmed by President R. Thomas Williamson; Dr. John Deegan Jr., vice president for academic affairs and dean of the College; and E. June Garner, registrar.
Welcomes and congratulations were offered by Leonard M. Carroll, chairman of the Board of Trustees, and Janice K. Twaddle, a 1974 ¾¨Ó㴫ý graduate who serves as president of the alumni council.
Keturah F. Laney, assistant chaplain, provided the invocation and benediction. Special music was provided by assistant professor of music Dr. Nancy Zipay DeSalvo; the ¾¨Ó㴫ý Faculty Brass Quintet; and bagpipers Leslie Kloc and Larry Herrick.
Faires Earns Distinguished Faculty Award
Dr. Barbara T. Faires, professor of mathematics, began teaching at ¾¨Ó㴫ý 30 years ago. During her tenure, she has been vice president of academic affairs and dean of the college, chair of the faculty, chair of the math and computer science department, Diversity Symposium coordinator, and a Henderson Lecturer. Her professional career has also been recognized outside the ¾¨Ó㴫ý community. She was a member of the executive committee of the Mathematical Association of America, and chair of its National Committee on Sections.
The Distinguished Faculty Award is given to the faculty member who has, over a sustained period of time, demonstrated characteristics of the most outstanding faculty - intellectual vitality, effective communication skills, the ability to motivate or inspire, compassion and concern for student success, collegiality, and leadership.
Four Professors Honored with Emeriti Status
Monica Becker, professor of biology since 1980; David Guthrie, professor of theatre since 1972; Allen C. Johnston, professor of education since 1976; and William J. McTaggart, professor of English since 1975, earned emeriti status.
