Tip:
Highlight text to annotate it
X
[ Music ]
>> Good morning.
I'm Paul Starkey, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost
at Pennsylvania College of Technology, and I welcome you
to this commencement ceremony.
This ceremony begins with the entrance of the candidates
for graduation from the Schools of Construction
and Design Technologies and Health Sciences.
Please join me in welcoming the candidates for graduation.
[ Music ]
Ladies and gentleman and candidates,
entering next are the Pennsylvania College
of Technology Faculty and Administration led
by the school Deans,
the platform party will complete the processional.
[ Music ]
Please rise for the National Anthem.
Gentlemen, please remove your caps.
[ Pause ]
[ National Anthem ]
[ Applause ]
Please be seated.
[ Pause ]
Seated on the auditorium or seated
in this auditorium are family and friends who have
in many different ways supported these candidates
to reach the goal represented by this ceremony.
On the platform are the college faculty and staff
who have motivated, encouraged, and inspired these students
as they completed their course work
and their entire college experience
and before us are the candidates, the candidates
for graduation who have become good friends, mentors,
and colleagues, developing relationships
that will serve them well as they move
into the future together.
We join them as members of an extended support network
to celebrate our involvement with these candidates
and to witness their accomplishment.
That celebration now begins.
Presiding over the May Commencement Ceremony is the
President of the Pennsylvania College of Technology,
Dr. Davie Jane Gilmour.
[ Applause ]
>> Good morning.
>> Good morning.
>> Very good.
I'd like to welcome you all
to our beautiful Community Arts Center
and to this commencement ceremony honoring the Class
of 2012.
Today, you become part of a proud Penn College legacy.
For nearly 100 years this institution has provided a
foundation for success for men and women who wish
to thrive in a changing world.
Many challenges have faced you, the graduates.
There have been times of war, times of peace,
times of economic growth often inspired
by emerging technologies and times of economic recession.
At all times, our institution's mission has been
to prepare its graduates to enter the workforce capably
and confidently to earn advancement into positions
that will influence the future.
As we celebrate your commencement today,
we look forward to the contributions
that you will make in the days to come.
This is truly a ceremony that will honor the past,
the present, and most importantly, your future.
In order to reach these milestones I'm going to ask each
of you to take time today
to gratefully acknowledge the support you have received
from your family and your friends,
your faculty and your staff.
This day is important to all of us
because you are important to all of us.
So seat back, relax and enjoy this very special day that you
and your loved ones will remember forever.
[ Applause ]
>> I'd like now introduce Mr. Elliot Strickland,
Chief Student Affairs Officer.
[ Applause ]
>> President Gilmour, Chairman Dunham, Provost Starkey,
distinguished faculty and staff, family friends
and most importantly, the May 2012 Graduating Class.
It is my pleasure this morning
to introduce your student commencement speaker.
Jason Maddox graduated with an associate's degree
in individual studies in the May of 2006 and returned
in January 2010 to pursue a bachelor degree
in building science and sustainable design.
During the last 2 years, Jason has engaged in activities
that reflect a passion for his academic program.
He was the co-founder and president
of the Penn College USGBC,
the United States Green Building Council.
And he earned the LEED Green Associate accreditation
in May 2010.
He has also left a permanent mark on our campus
as Jason worked with campus leadership
to introduce our new Single Stream Recycling Initiative
which was implemented this academic year.
Thursday night, Jason was awarded a Penn College award
in recognition of outstanding student leadership
and significant contribution to student life.
Please welcome your 2012 student commencement speaker,
Mr. Jason T. Maddox.
[ Applause ]
[ Cheers ]
>> All right.
Good morning Class 2012, administration, faculty,
friends, and families.
When I first got the e-mail that said I was voted
to be student speaker, I admit I was a little intimidated.
Standing up in front of 2100 people is not exactly
on my list.
But this day is not about me, it's about us,
the graduating class of 2012.
Some of us have endured 4 long years here at Penn College.
Some of us less and a few a bit here longer
than you care to say.
Whichever category you fit into,
we all share a common accomplishment,
in a few minutes we'll be graduates.
Now for some of you Penn College is all you know,
having graduated from Penn College for my first degree,
I set out to join the workforce.
After working for 4 years, I was laid off permanently,
decide I was going to try something new.
I started a new degree at a larger school
and knew right away it just wasn't going to be the same.
With a fond appreciation for Penn College's small class size
and hands-on learning approach,
I knew without a doubt there was only one school I want
to go back to.
The skills we have learned
over the past years have all been building blocks towards
your future.
It's up to you now to put all those skills to use.
I know we all have those people in our lives that have pushed,
supported, and encouraged us to be the best we can.
For some that may be family, friends, or all of the above.
One person I would like to personally thank is not only a
professor of mine but a mentor as well as a friend.
He's part of the reason why I'm standing here today,
he nominated me for this great honor and I vowed to get back
at him by calling him out today, Naim Jabbour,
who is sitting right behind me.
[ Applause ]
It might be hard to see from out there but he is blushing
and if he wasn't, he sure is now.
As you sit among your fellow graduates, let yourself reflect
on how far we have come since that first day of freshman year.
No longer will we have to sit through the boring syllabus week
or another finals week.
Those long nights of cramming for an exam are over.
On a lighter note, you'll never have to wait in long lines just
for made to order at CC Commons or at Penn Central
for that last slice of cold pizza.
Hopefully, we'll be all joining the workforce soon.
Whether you already have a job lined up or not, just realize
that because of all your hard work, you are graduating
with a degree that will set you apart from the rest.
Your degree will most likely get you a second look
or that first interview, but know that your future
and success will be in how you choose
to use those knowledge and skills.
I have some challenges for my fellow graduates.
I challenge you to be a forward thinker,
be a leader in your industry and community.
Don't be afraid to take risks
for the greatest risk reaps the greatest rewards.
Set goals for yourself and let no one stand in the way
of achieving your dreams.
Time is never guaranteed for anyone
so live it up and have some fun.
So without further delay, we're done, we're finished,
it's time to graduate.
Congratulations Class of 2012.
[ Applause ]
[ Cheers ]
>> Teaching is the heart of Penn College.
And we place a high value on teaching and learning.
In recognizing teaching excellence,
we demonstrate the best at Penn College.
As we celebrate the fine work that takes place
in our classrooms and laboratories,
we confirm our mission.
The distinguished teaching awards are presented each May
at commencement to full time faculty members
who have been nominated by students and colleagues
for their excellence in instructional performance.
Since 1982, 89 distinguished teaching awards have
been presented.
I am pleased to announce that at Friday's commencement ceremony,
an Excellence in Teaching Award was presented to Kathy Walker,
Assistant Professor in Drafting and Computer-Aided Design.
A second Excellence in Teaching Award will be presented
at this afternoon's ceremony.
It's my honor today to present the Alumni Humanitarian
Citizenship Award.
That award is presented to a dedicated alumnus
of the Pennsylvania College of Technology
or its forerunner institutions,
the Williamsport Area Community College
or the Williamsport Technical Institute.
And this alumnus is someone
who has provided distinguished community or volunteer service.
This year's Alumni Humanitarian Citizenship recipient is Donna
Bean, a member of the Class of 1979.
Donna earned an Associate of Applied Science Degree
in Dental Hygiene from the Williamsport Area
Community College.
She worked in the field for more than 20 years
and remains a licensed dental hygienist.
But she no longer practices in the field due
to a hand injury instead, she practices the art of giving,
volunteering at the DuBois Free Medical Clinic
and a local food pantry.
She serves as Vice President
of the DuBois Regional Medical Center Auxiliary Board
and chairperson of the Board Scholarship Committee
which presents scholarships worth
at least 4,000 dollars a year to high school seniors
who pursue degrees in medical related fields.
She is a member and past president
of the Salvation Army in DuBois.
She serves as the coordinator of the care committee
of her church overseeing projects such as the Stress Box,
Habitat for Humanity, distribution of alter flowers
and convalescent meals.
She's also active in the parking authority and community theatre.
In 2004, Donna read an article in Parade Magazine
about the food pantry
which serves the nation's poorest countries,
McKinley County, New Mexico.
The Gallup Food Pantry was working to secure donations
to support elementary school children
and their families in McKinley County.
And Donna went to work to help support the group's efforts.
In just four months, she recruited friends
in area churches and other organizations.
And she enlisted the assistance of a Walmart distribution center
to collect and deliver over 600 boxes of food
and clothing to New Mexico.
When she learned of her nomination of this award,
Donna said that she hoped her actions would influence a child
or an adult to become involved and serve the community.
We share that hope with her and encourage all
of our 2012 graduates to find opportunities to care
and to share in their own local communities.
It's my honor each year to present these alumni awards
but I will tell you, today is particularly touching.
Donna was in the first class of dental hygiene students
that I taught at this institution some 34 years ago.
So it is my true personal honor
to present the Alumni Humanitarian Citizenship Award
to Donna Bean, Class of 1979.
[ Applause ]
[ Noise ]
>> I don't really have a lot to say but I would particularly
like to thank the college for selecting me.
And I'd like to thank all my family
and friends who've joined me here today,
especially my mother, who's always supported me,
my wonderful friend Darla Logue who nominated me and also went
to school here with me,
and my husband who's always encouraged everything I've done.
And I'd like to say one more thing, congratulations
to all the graduates here today and best wishes and good luck.
[ Applause ]
[ Pause ]
>> Ladies and gentlemen, as many of you know,
the legal corporate body of the Pennsylvania College
of Technology is its Board of Directors.
This is the body that by our charter was given final
responsibility for the governance, welfare
and all other interests pertaining to the college.
Though some responsibilities are delegated,
ultimate authority rest with the board.
But this time, I'd like to call upon Dr. Robert Dunham,
Chair of the Board of Directors to authorize the conferring
of degrees at this ceremony, Dr. Dunham.
[ Applause ]
>> Thank you.
President Gilmour, members of the faculty, family, friends,
and of course the Graduating Class of 2012.
I know this is a very special day for all of you.
The degrees that we are about to award have come
from your hard work and dedication, from the guidance
and support of the faculty and from the very strong support
of your family and friends.
On behalf of the Board of Directors, let me extend
to you my sincere appreciation and congratulations.
And to all of those who are family and friends and faculty,
thanks too for your strong support.
And now let me do my official duty.
Dr. Gilmour, by virtue of the power vested in the Board
of Directors of the Pennsylvania College of Technology,
I authorize you on behalf of the Board
to present the degrees earned by these candidates as certified
by their appropriate Dean.
[ Applause ]
>> Will the candidates for Bachelor
of Science degrees, please rise.
[ Pause ]
>> It's always good when you know when to stand up.
[Laughter]
>> Dr. Gilmour, upon recommendation of the faculty,
I'm pleased to inform you that these men
and women had satisfactorily completed the requirements
for the Bachelor of Science degree.
>> Thank you.
By virtue of the authority vested in me by the Board
of Directors of the Pennsylvania College of Technology,
I do hereby confer upon you the Bachelor of Science degrees
that you have earned with all of their rights and privileges
and with congratulations from the Board of Directors,
the faculty and the staff, congratulations.
[ Applause ]
>> You may be seated.
>> Will the candidates for all associate degrees
and certificates, please rise.
[ Applause ]
>> Dr. Gilmour, upon recommendation of the faculty,
I'm pleased to inform you that these men
and women have satisfactorily completed the requirements
for their respective associate degrees and certificates.
>> Thank you.
By virtue of the authority vested in me by the Board
of Directors of the Pennsylvania College of Technology,
I do hereby confer upon you the associate degrees
and certificates that you have earned with all of their rights
and privileges and with congratulations from the Board
of Directors, the faculty and the staff, congratulations.
[Applause] Would you please remain standing
and would the baccalaureate graduates, please rise?
Mr. Maddox.
Now just to be sure everybody should be standing up.
Ladies and gentlemen,
you entered this theatre a little while ago as candidates
for the certificates and degrees that you have earned.
You have just had those certificates
and degrees conferred upon you.
And as a symbol of your entry into the world of educated men
and women, I ask you to turn the tassel as I do
so for your class representative.
This will symbolize that you are now graduates
of the Pennsylvania College of Technology.
Congratulations.
[ Applause ]
You may be seated.
[ Applause ]
As individuals and institutions we pass through clear stages
of development, points in time when we grow into new roles
and new responsibilities.
This is a transition event for everyone today.
And we are very proud
to recognize individuals with academic honors.
Outstanding academic achievement will be recognized
for all students.
The gold, silver or white cord worn during these ceremonies
will signify their achievement.
White for honors, silver for high honors,
and gold for highest honors will identify these students.
We are proud to recognize the graduates of Phi Theta Kappa.
Their gold stoles and tassels will identify them.
We are also proud to recognize the members
of the Alpha Chi Honor Society
and white stoles will identify those students.
You will be able to identify our veterans
as they cross the stage today
because they will wear a red, white, and blue cord.
I would now like to ask all of the veterans in the class
if you are actively serving
or you have served the military to please stand.
I know you're out there.
[ Cheers ]
[ Applause ]
>> If you remain standing,
I'd like to tell you about our veterans.
Penn College veterans have 3 Purple Hearts, 4 Bronze Stars,
70 Iraq Campaign Medals, and 17 Afghanistan Campaign Medals,
we are very proud of our veterans.
[ Cheers ]
[ Applause ]
>> At this time, Carolyn Strickland,
the Assistant Vice President for Academic Services
and the respective school representatives will present
the candidates.
Dr. Dunham will assist in presenting the diplomas.
Now, I know that all of the family and friends want
to capture this moment; I used to say on film,
I don't say that anymore.
If you want to capture this moment, we'll just leave it
at that, we simply ask that you let the area in front
of our official photographer open and you're welcome to come
down front and take your picture.
With that, our ceremony will begin.
[ Noise ]
>> President Gilmour, I present the graduates
of Architectural Technology, Building Science
and Sustainable Design, Building Science and Sustainable Design:
Architecture Emphasis, Building Science and Sustainable Design:
Construction Emphasis from within the School
of Construction and Design Technologies.
>> Thank you.
Jequan Jay Daniels [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Dakota Jay Fore.
[ Applause ]
Logan James Canyon.
[ Applause ]
Harrison David Myers.
[ Applause ]
Kristine Victoria Rivera.
[ Applause ]
Angel Bernardo Straum.
[ Applause ]
Melissa Lee Warner.
[ Applause ]
Jason Michael Young.
[ Applause ]
Joshua L. Baumgartner.
[ Applause ]
Ashley Marie Baby.
[ Applause ]
David Mark d'Antigny [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Jonathan David Kuntz.
[ Applause ]
Amanda Joy Miller.
[ Applause ]
Denton Ray Auburn.
[ Applause ]
Jacob Samuel Schafer.
[ Applause ]
Erika Lee Schreffler.
[ Applause ]
Allen Ross Schimmel.
[ Applause ]
David Joseph Van Doren [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Matthew E. Winder.
[ Applause ]
Caitlin Marie Roszkowski [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Brian C. McKenny.
[ Applause ]
Joshua Lee Murray.
[ Applause ]
William Jay Spenley [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
>> Dr. Gilmour, I'm very proud to present the graduates
of Residential Construction Technology and Management,
Residential Construction Technology and Management:
Architecture and Construction,
Building Construction Technology,
Building Construction Technology: Masonry Emphasis,
Residential Builder, all within the School
of Construction Design Technologies.
>> Thank you.
[Noise] [Applause] Matthew Joseph Bauer.
[ Applause ]
[ Inaudible Discussions ]
[ Laughter ]
Thank you.
William Butler Bradley.
[ Applause ]
Jason Michael Brower.
[ Applause ]
Seth Allen Fischer.
[ Applause ]
Randy M. Fox.
[ Applause ]
Jacob T. Fox.
[ Applause ]
Daniel Matthew Gwen.
[ Applause ]
Stephen A. Johnson.
[ Applause ]
Bret Michael Kiebach [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Seth Robert Cohooth [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Daniel J. Kramer.
[ Applause ]
Timothy Andrew Laws [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Robert Charles Losey [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Joseph Daniel Morningstar.
[ Applause ]
Tyler Andrew Nell.
[ Applause ]
Douglas James Paige.
[ Applause ]
Zachary Timothy Ryver [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Dana Michelle Ritter.
[ Applause ]
Michael Bruce Stepp [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Lucas G. Van Zatten [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Jared Andrew Wiand [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Tyler Paul Yeater.
[ Applause ]
John P. Jenkins.
[ Applause ]
Caleb J. Baechtle [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Michael June Buchalski [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Stason N. Cabrera [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Emily Carella.
[ Applause ]
Ryan M. Conrad.
[ Applause ]
John Colter ***.
[ Applause ]
Charles M. Shade.
[ Applause ]
John Lee Winter.
>> It's Walter.
>> Walter.
John Lee Walter.
[ Applause ]
Thomas Charles Aires [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Addison Ewing Bond.
[ Applause ]
Cole Matthew Brewer.
[ Applause ]
Christopher M. Buckholtz [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Michael Ian Sucere [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Brandon I.
Curry.
[ Applause ]
Jordan R. Harris.
[ Applause ]
Tyler John Harry.
[ Applause ]
Gordon Joseph Holbrooke [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Ryan Miles Hummel.
[ Applause ]
Matthew A. Johnson.
[ Applause ]
Matthew Thomas Cruzan [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Joshua A. Nielsen.
[ Applause ]
Corbin Kindred Oberholter [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Chad T. Osborn.
[ Applause ]
Patrick Brian Ramft [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Sean James Scott.
[ Applause ]
Paul S. Smith II.
[ Applause ]
Brian Patrick Switzer.
[ Applause ]
Anthony Gabriel Tirno [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Frank Tomassini [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Gregory Thomas Wall Junior.
[ Applause ]
Sean T. Zell [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Patrick A. Mackenzie.
[ Applause ]
Shane E. Moore.
[ Applause ]
>> President Gilmour, I proudly present the graduates
of Construction Management from the School of Construction
and Design Technologies.
>> Thank you.
[Applause] [Noise] Kyle Sutherland Baker.
[ Applause ]
Davin Monroe Banks.
[ Applause ]
Garret Hunter Bierce [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Justin M. Booth.
[ Applause ]
Jonathan E. Brisnock [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Ryan Joseph Catina.
[ Applause ]
Ian William D. Clemente [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Samuel Harris Folks.
[ Applause ]
Noah Erin Grouby [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
William Felix Ingles.
[ Applause ]
Tyler Vincent Jones.
[ Applause ]
John F. Kennedy.
[ Applause ]
John Michael Kreinner [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Austin Clay Leatherman.
[ Applause ]
Steven Arthur Leavehart [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Randy Lee Neff Junior [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
John N. Ortals [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Kyle Matthew Parkins.
[ Applause ]
William Michael Sisco.
[ Applause ]
Blake Elliot Smith.
[ Applause ]
Chad Michael Stevens.
[ Applause ]
Nicholas David Watting [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Justin T. Wenger.
[ Applause ]
>> President Gilmour, I am please to present the graduates
of Building Automation Technology,
Building Automation Technology: HVAC,
Renewable Energy Technologies, Electrical Technology,
Electrical Mechanical Maintenance Technology
and Electrical Occupations.
>> Thank you.
[Applause] John P. Bailey.
[ Applause ]
Tyler Joseph Dickerson.
[ Applause ]
David Charles Harman.
[ Applause ]
Brandon Mark Harman.
[ Applause ]
Blaire Allen Kinsman.
[ Applause ]
Brandon Daniel Kling.
[ Applause ]
Jane Allen McCarrie [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Kyle William Willis.
[ Applause ]
Caleb Michael Wise.
[ Applause ]
Raymond Jay Finlin II [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Derrick Douglas Libey [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Jason M. Greene.
[ Applause ]
Jeffrey S. Kenderdine [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Nicholas A. Williams.
[ Applause ]
Kyle William Zeeburg [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Gregory John Miller.
[ Applause ]
Robert Joseph Barberra [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Seth Michael Beckman.
[ Applause ]
Derrick M. Bosher.
[ Applause ]
Alexander Paul Cloak.
[ Applause ]
Shane G. Dando [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Philip Matthew English.
[ Applause ]
Adam S. Feather.
[ Applause ]
Nicholas John Filler.
[ Applause ]
Steven Charles Keppler.
[ Applause ]
Timothy Andrew Locksley II.
[ Applause ]
Ryan Jay Mercer.
[ Applause ]
Matthew Harry Jansick Nolan.
[ Applause ]
Sean Bryant Rig.
[ Applause ]
Neil K. Sherk Junior.
[ Applause ]
James Marcel Washington.
[ Applause ]
Gregory A. Wilka.
[ Applause ]
Edward J. Mesa Junior.
[ Applause ]
>> President Gilmour, I present to you the graduates of Heating,
Ventilation, Air Conditioning Design Technology, HVAC:
Commercial Plumbing Emphasis, HVAC:
Commercial Refrigeration Emphasis, all within the School
of Construction and Design Technologies.
>> Thank you.
[Applause] Christopher W. Henderson.
[ Applause ]
Ian Tyler Herr [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Scott M. Keppler.
[ Applause ]
Kyle Jeffrey King.
[ Applause ]
Derrick Scott Miller.
[ Applause ]
John Jordan Rew [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Clayton Thomas Canfer [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Kyle Anthony Ezolt [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Carl R. Folk.
[ Applause ]
Bruce Jacob Flag.
[ Applause ]
Eric Michael Jetko [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Gregory Eugene Jones.
[ Applause ]
Jason Carlos Newman.
[ Applause ]
Tyler Ray Ruble.
[ Applause ]
Darren Walter Smith.
[ Applause ]
Zachary Andrew Smith.
[ Applause ]
>> Aron Jay Steffie [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Doug Ryan Wetzel.
[ Applause ]
Lucas Allen Bennett.
[ Applause ]
Matthew R. Bergstrom.
[ Applause ]
Eric E. Gessettes.
[ Applause ]
Thomas James Hughes.
[ Applause ]
Brian M. Freibel [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Darryl V. Relaford [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Tyler Logan Rice.
[ Applause ]
Bradley Thomas Redbuam [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Joshua Donald Sailor.
[ Applause ]
>> President Gilmour, I present the graduates of Dental Hygiene
within the School of Health Sciences.
>> Thank you.
[Applause] Brooke Renee Armand.
[ Applause ]
Rachel A. Davis.
[ Applause ]
Cristine S. Delbow [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Emily Diana Ditz [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Ashley C. Grow [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Tiffany Marie Harziskie [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Erin May Heganstaller [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Amanda Elizabeth Hill.
[ Applause ]
Caille R. Rival.
[ Applause ]
Whitney Lee Neckel.
[ Applause ]
>> Brandy Lynn Kutza [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Amber Lynn March.
[ Applause ]
Rochelle C. Omnese [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Melissa Renee Palsk [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Marlina D. Payne.
[ Applause ]
Maphiser Raman.
[ Applause ]
Alicia Nicole Sacaidas [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Shannon Rebecca Souter [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Caitlin May Strausser [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Kelsey Nicole Yost [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Norma Ray Tappin [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
>> President Gilmour, I present the graduates
of Physical Fitness Specialist
within the School of Health Sciences.
>> Thank you.
[Applause] Kelsey N. Coppersmith.
[ Applause ]
Ian C. Goff [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Thomas Grady Hanna [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Stephanie Marie Hunsaker [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Chase D. Keck [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Ryan L. Krause.
[ Applause ]
Steven C. Kurts.
[ Applause ]
Carson Rosalyn McDonnell.
[ Applause ]
Cynthia M. Murphy.
[ Applause ]
Benjamin D. Newcomer.
[ Applause ]
Hillary M. Rice.
[ Applause ]
Christopher James Steinbucker [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Jordan Michael Tilleton [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
>> President Gilmour, I present the graduates
of Applied Health Studies, Emergency Medical Services,
Applied Health Studies Surgical,
Applied Health Studies Occupational Therapy
and Applied Health Studies Distance
within the School of Health Sciences.
>> Thank you.
John P. Marshaleck.
[ Applause ]
Megan C. Cabrinski [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
James D. Curtis.
[ Applause ]
>> President Gilmour, I am most honored to present
to you the graduates of the Penn College Nursing Program,
both Associate of Applied Science and Bachelor
of Science in Nursing.
>> Thank you.
[Applause] Taisha L. Bobcock [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Janelle Wical Bear [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Mimi L. Bisant [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Lori Jo Bogart.
[ Applause ]
Larissa Renee Bows.
[ Applause ]
Samantha Jo Carey.
[ Applause ]
Lindsay B. Carus [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Amanda Jo Doherty.
[ Applause ]
Samantha A. [inaudible].
[ Applause ]
Dana Lee Generia.
[ Applause ]
Alexandria Gustin.
[ Applause ]
Jeanine L. Hecker.
[ Applause ]
Amy Marie Hainos [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Jerrica Lane Holmes [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Melissa Jean Hoy.
[ Applause ]
Richard T. Kaminsky [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Shannon Lynn Kirby.
[ Applause ]
Elizabeth Anne Legarsky [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Cassandra A. Leroy.
[ Applause ]
Michelle L. Meyer.
[ Applause ]
Ashley A. Miller.
[ Applause ]
Natalie M. Miller.
[ Applause ]
Cristine S. Mitinger [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Amy L. Moore.
[ Applause ]
Tricia Lynn Pratt.
[ Applause ]
Cynthia A. Real.
[ Applause ]
Catherine Lynn Rem.
[ Applause ]
Marian Elle J. Seckler [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Michelle M. ***.
[ Applause ]
Caroline A. Throe [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Andrea L. Valentine.
[ Applause ]
Meredith Anne Walton.
[ Applause ]
Tina Marie Watkins.
[ Applause ]
Emily L. Wilson.
[ Applause ]
Jillian Marie Waltz.
[ Applause ]
Kelly Theresa Weitel-Svacker [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Stephanie K. Schaeffer.
[ Applause ]
Jellisa Renee Andrade [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Jessica M. Bingaman.
[ Applause ]
Jennifer Lynn Gablock [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Sue Anne Jaquinto.
[ Applause ]
Joel Adam Hague [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Jenna Marquee Harner.
[ Applause ]
Stephanie Michelle Herman.
[ Applause ]
Tiffany N. Kresge [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Timothy P. Matter.
[ Applause ]
Aaron T. Macmenemon [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Chelsea Marie Masser.
[ Applause ]
Megan Cress Myers.
[ Applause ]
Rusiana Iwania Penn [phonetic].
[ Applause ]
Megan Marie Russell.
[ Applause ]
Olivia Marie True.
[ Applause ]
Brandon Richard Wagner.
[ Applause ]
Brianna J. Walker.
[ Applause ]
And Jason T. Maddox.
[ Applause ]
And now with this number of graduates,
we have to give them a minute to get their picture taken
and get back to their seat, and I did this yesterday
so there are few people in the room who'll be less nervous
when you go off script.
But I have to give them a minute so I'm going
to tell you a short story.
A year ago after May commencement I came
across an article that was written about college presidents
and what they think about when students walk
across the stage to shake their hands.
It was a pretty interesting article and I thought well,
I'll stop and read it and see
if it's the same things that I think about.
I don't worry about the speaker and that was one of the top 5
because we focus on students and have a student speaker
so I didn't have to worry that the speaker didn't show up,
which is a good thing.
But in the top 5, I think it might surprise you
that college presidents think
about when they shake today 250 hands or shoes.
[ Laughter ]
[ Applause ]
Not my shoes, your shoes.
You know, we talk a lot and getting ready
for this ceremony we have rehearsals that some view
as optional and I can imagine it was your son or daughter
but somebody thought it was optional.
And we talk about you know, you have to walk across the stage,
2100 people flat shoes, flip flops, work boots,
but not really high shoes and so in 14 years, I confess,
I hold my breath a lot.
Today, it's health sciences
and I hold my breath the most the entire school.
[ Laughter ]
[ Applause ]
I earned that one.
Because you think, oh my goodness, they're going
to fall off those shoes.
So Dr. Dunham and I prepared to catch them if they come flying.
And that in fact, true story,
was in the top 5 things college presidents think
about when students walk across the graduation stage.
I think they're all in their seats now so back to the script.
Your connection to the college doesn't end today
and you know that.
You are now a member of the Penn College Alumni Association
and that is an important link between you and your alma mater.
And you'll keep connected to us
by that thing called Facebook, yeah.
You'll learn about what's going on on campus
and we hope you'll come back and visit, attend homecomings,
and other activities related
to your academic schools and majors.
But most importantly, we hope you'll continue
to tell us what you're doing because you never know,
I predict someday somebody in this room would be sitting
where Donna Bean is today and will be recognized
as an outstanding humanitarian member of the class of 2012.
So make sure you keep connected with us because we want
to hear about your success.
You know, it's that time when we have to say goodbye
and I look forward to it until it gets here.
Because the moment is going to pass very quickly, I promise.
And I really wish for just a moment time could stand still.
So just, for just a few minutes I'd like to ask the graduates
to assume that there's really nobody else here
in this 2100-seat room but us.
It's my honor more than you'll ever know
to stand here before you today and be the last person to speak
with you before you enter into the real world.
You're special not only to the people
who helped you get here today and who love you.
But you're special because you have skills
and you have opportunities to make a difference in this world.
Some are certainly going to call me an idealist but the mission
and the values of our college mean a lot to me.
And I want you to leave here today knowing how important
that values and virtues are
and they will be throughout your life.
I'm sure they sound like old-fashioned ideas to some
of you, especially coming from the leader of a college
that embraces new and emerging technology.
But I believe with all of my heart that progress is built
on a foundation, the foundation is basic principles
that sustain us through generations.
We often avoid conversation about our values and our virtues
because people, we're afraid people will see us
as a hypocrite if we fail to live up to those ideals,
or because we're afraid we might offend someone
or someone's culture if they don't agree with us.
But in the end, really nothing should stand in the way
of you communicating what's important to you.
In every culture and in every tradition there's a place
for honesty, integrity, compassion, and responsibility,
and there's an obligation to leave the world good
or better than we found it.
I would suggest to you that rather delimiting us,
values and virtues provide us endless opportunity.
When we're able to connect what we know in our head
with our hearts and what we do
with our hands then we will find the true meaning
and purpose in our life.
I hope your Penn College education will help you
to connect with your head and your heart.
We all are going to search
for meaning no matter what career we choose.
Each of us wants to serve a purpose.
Each time you choose to do the right thing instead
of taking the easy way out, you will choose virtue.
If you patiently persist through your noble goals through good
and bad times, you will choose virtue.
You need to do more than survive.
You need to thrive and you need
to be a thriving member of a community.
Avoid traits that are opposite, avoid arrogance,
avoid indulgence, avoid complacency, and avoid greed.
Our communities need us to lead selfless lives
and to be humble servants even in our success.
As college graduates I expect you to be a leader
in your workplace and in your community and the way
that you will express those values
and your actions will impact the lives of others,
people will follow your example.
The great philosopher Socrates said the greatest way to live
with honor in this world is to be what we pretend to be.
Pretending is not enough,
intending to do the right thing later is not enough.
We have seen in our world today how the mighty can fail
when they fail to do what's right and when they fail to be
who they pretended to be.
So ask yourself this question today before you enter the
real world.
Who will you be as a Penn College graduate?
I have no doubt that your college years have helped you.
I have no doubt that it has changed you
but how will you now change the world.
You have to make life-changing decisions and you will do
that throughout your life as you transition
from one place to the other.
Moving new places, meeting new people, starting families,
watching your children grow.
One day you'll even plan for your retirement,
all of your transitions will start with the same question,
who are you, and what kind of person do you want to be?
I would encourage you to be steadfast in your commitment.
I urge you to greet life with energy and enthusiasm
and to employ your knowledge and your values and your virtue
in creating a life that you most desire.
Today you become part of a very proud tradition
as you join the Penn College alumni.
For nearly 100 years this institution has been changing
lives and impacting communities.
We ask you to stay in touch with us,
we ask you to come back often, and we ask you
to share your talents with us.
Now it really is time for me to say goodbye.
On behalf of all of us who has spent time with you,
making a difference, to the class of 2012, I tell you now,
you are part of the valued and virtuous history
of the Pennsylvania College of Technology.
Please go in the world and make us proud.
Congratulations!
[ Applause ]
>> I invite those who are able to stand, gentlemen,
please remove your caps and everyone join in singing
of the Penn College Alma Mater.
The words may be found on page 2 of your program.
[ Pause ]
[ Singing ]
[ Applause ]
Thank you.
Please be seated and remain seated
until the platform party has recessed.
[ Music ]
We ask that the audience remain seated while our graduates
exit next.
The [inaudible] will conduct through recessional and we ask
that you continue all the way to the street,
so that you'll be best able to connect
with your family and friends.
Best wishes and congratulations.
[ Applause ]
[ Cheers ]
[ Music ]
>> I hope you never lose your sense of wonder.
You get your fill to eat, but always keep that hunger.
May you never take one single breath for granted.
God forbid love ever leave you empty handed.
I hope you still feel small when you stand beside the ocean.
Whenever one door closes I hope one more opens.
Promise me that you'll give fate a fighting chance.
And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance,
I hope you dance, I hope you dance.
I hope you never fear those mountains in the distance.
Never settle for the path of least resistance.
Living might mean taking chances,
but they're worth taking.
Loving might be a mistake but it's worth making.
Don't let some hell bent heart leave you bitter.
When you come close to selling out, reconsider.
Give the heavens above more than just a passing glance.
And when you get the choice to sit it out
or dance, I hope you dance.
>> Time is a wheel in constant motion always.
>> I hope you dance.
>> Rolling us along.
>> I hope you dance.
>> Tell me who wants to look back on their youth and wonder--
>> I hope you dance.
>> Where those years have gone.
>> I hope you still feel small when you stand beside the ocean.
Whenever one door closes I hope one more opens.
Promise me that you'll give faith a fighting chance.
And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance, dance--