Wilkes University Celebrates 78th Spring Commencement
WILKES-BARRE – May 17, 2024 – Wilkes University held its 78th spring commencement, a ceremony that celebrated the academic achievements of over 700 graduates. The commencement, held in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, featured speeches by David Hicks and State Rep. Eddie Day Pashinski. Degrees were awarded to students who had completed their bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs. This event celebrated the culmination of years of hard work and dedication, and marked a major moment in the academic year, particularly for new graduates.
Wilkes University Celebrates 78th Spring Commencement with Over 700 graduates
A Day of Achievement and Inspiration
Wilkes University marked a meaningful milestone on may 17,2025,as it celebrated its 78th spring commencement. more than 700 students were awarded bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees, signifying the culmination of years of hard work and dedication.
Commencement Speakers Offer Words of Wisdom
The ceremonies were divided to honour graduates from different degree programs, each featuring distinguished speakers who shared their insights and experiences.
- Doctoral and Master’s Degrees: David Hicks, director of the Maslow Family Graduate Program in Creative Writing, delivered the commencement address. Hicks, a celebrated author and educator, likely focused on the power of storytelling and the importance of creative expression in a rapidly changing world.
- Bachelor’s Degrees: State Rep. Eddie Day Pashinski, a 1967 alumnus of Wilkes University, addressed the graduating class. Pashinski, a long-serving public servant, also received an honorary degree in recognition of his contributions to the community and the state.
Pro Tip: Networking at Commencement
Commencement is a great possibility to network with fellow graduates, faculty, and alumni. Bring business cards and be prepared to make connections that could benefit your future career.
State Rep. Eddie Day Pashinski Honored
State Rep. Eddie Day Pashinski’s address to the bachelor’s degree recipients was particularly poignant, as he reflected on his own journey as graduating from Wilkes University in 1967. His honorary degree underscores the university’s commitment to recognizing alumni who have made significant impacts in their fields.
Reader Question: What is an Honorary Degree?
An honorary degree is awarded by a university to recognize an individual’s achievements and contributions to society, without requiring the recipient to complete the usual academic requirements.
A Look at the Graduates
Photographer Jason Ardan captured the joy and excitement of the day. Here are a few highlights:
- Zachary Paraway celebrated his achievement by raising his arms as he walked across the stage.
- Cameron Butka received his degree with pride.
- Jacob O’Boyle smiled broadly at the crowd after receiving his degree.
- Aryanna burke walked confidently across the stage.
- Samantha Andes waved to a professor during the procession.
Did You Know?
Wilkes University was founded in 1933 as a satellite campus of Bucknell University and became an self-reliant institution in 1947.
