Wilmington college Celebrates 149th Commencement with 205 Graduates
Wilmington – May 10, 2024 – Wilmington College held its 149th commencement ceremony, marking a significant milestone for the academic institution and its graduating class of 205 students. The event, held under sunny skies, saw the awarding of degrees spanning Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, and master’s programs. The speakers offered words of wisdom for the graduates. For an in-depth look into the inspiring speeches, keep reading.
Wilmington College Celebrates 149th Commencement with 205 Graduates
Wilmington,Ohio – Under sunny skies,Wilmington College held its 149th Commencement on Saturday,May 10,celebrating the achievements of 205 students. The graduates earned degrees spanning Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, Master of Organizational Leadership, and Master of Science in Occupational therapy.
Keynote Address: Megan Canfield’s Call to Action
Megan Canfield, a 2017 alumna of Wilmington College, delivered the keynote address. Canfield is known as a tireless advocate for meaningful change in global and local communities
, a passion she cultivated during her time as a student at the college. Her speech focused on the importance of community engagement and making a difference in the world.
Graduate Perspective: lisa A. Elliott’s Serendipitous Journey
Lisa A. Elliott, who received a Master of Organizational Leadership, represented the graduate programs at Wilmington College. elliott shared a humorous anecdote about her initial confusion regarding the college’s location. Hailing from Wilmington, Delaware, home to Wilmington University, she recounted:
But as life has a funny way of taking different roads, Wilmington College was exactly the right place I needed to be.
Lisa A.Elliott,Wilmington College Graduate
Elliott offered three key reflections to her fellow graduates:
- Be self-aware:
reflect ofen,listen deeply,and give yourself grace.
- Lead with gratitude:
it will shape your attitude, your relationships, and your resilience.
- Fall forward:
Mistakes are not detours. They are part of the path – opportunities.
Undergraduate Address: Garrett Simmons on “Turtle Time”
Garrett Simmons, a Bachelor of Science graduate, represented the undergraduate students. He centered his address around the concept of turtle time
, drawing parallels between the longevity and growth of turtles and the experiences of college students.
They accumulate their decades growing in size, acquiring knowledge and overcoming the challenges that nature and humans throw at them.
Garrett Simmons, Wilmington College Graduate
Simmons emphasized the growth and resilience gained during their time at Wilmington College, stating:
Over the past several years, we have grown, acquired knowledge and skills, and overcome the obstacles that life threw at us.
garrett Simmons, Wilmington College Graduate
He concluded with an inspiring message:
Wilmington College has taught me to be more like a turtle. I say with confidence that we have been prepared to face whatever life brings our way – enjoying the sweet moments in life and remaining resilient through the bitter. It is indeed my greatest wish that all of you will do the same.
Garrett Simmons, Wilmington College Graduate
Did You Know?
Wilmington college was founded in 1870 by the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) and has a long history of emphasizing service and social justice.
Pro Tip: Embracing “Turtle time” in Your Career
Consider how the concept of “turtle time” can apply to your professional life. Focus on continuous learning, building resilience, and viewing challenges as opportunities for growth. Slow and steady progress can lead to significant achievements over time.
