Challenge yourself to be your best, 是的, but also dare to allow for softness and vulnerability as well. The world needs more softness. Look for the places in this world that need light, 让它闪耀, because how we show up for one another matters.
As a high school chemistry teacher, 迈克尔Pollino, ’13, G’24, appreciates the “aha” moments when his students master a difficult concept.
And, with a BSU graduate degree in 物理科学 now in hand, Pollino is ready to help countless more students reach new academic heights.
“I’ve already implemented many things I learned at BSU,迈克尔说。, who appreciated how 布里奇沃特 offered classes geared specifically to teachers. “I love the job and I love working with students.”
Michael and more than 450 of his graduating peers experienced many of their own “aha” moments as they completed advanced degrees at BSU. With the support of dedicated faculty and faithful peers, these Bears are ready to make their mark on their families, communities and the world.
“在布里奇沃特, you have already left a legacy of optimism and determination that we admire and know will sustain you,” said 校董会 Chair 琼修正.
In a world marred by war, climate change, economic instability and inequality, the College of 研究生学习' class of 2024 has exhibited kindness, leadership and commitment, all traits that prepare them to tackle seemingly insurmountable challenges, 总统说 弗雷德里克·W. 克拉克小., ’83
“You stand here today as a testament to your personal determination and desire to succeed,克拉克说.
Featured speaker and state Senate 总统 Karen Spilka recalled a time when a mechanic tried to sell her repairs that her Volkswagen Beetle didn’t need. Rather than give in to a scammer, Spilka learned to repair her car herself.
Graduates have shown that same persistence, and are ready to apply it to their lives and careers, Spilka说.
“We need you in hospitals, 在企业, 在非营利组织, 在教室, 在实验室里, in local government and in the Statehouse,斯皮卡说. “Massachusetts needs you. We need your brilliance, we need your talents, we need your initiative.”
Spilka received an honorary degree while Mary Price, director of the Massachusetts Inclusive Concurrent Enrollment Initiative, received a distinguished service award. Ala’a Ahmad Ali Bani Melhem, G’24, was recognized with the distinguished graduate thesis award while 凯拉Medeiros, ’15, G’23, earned the distinguished graduate research-project award.
学生演讲 杰米•杰克逊, G'24, who received a 社会工作 degree, encouraged her peers to be seen and heard. Always strive to be kinder and more capable and confident, she said.
“Challenge yourself to be your best, 是的, but also dare to allow for softness and vulnerability as well,”她说。. “The world needs more softness. Look for the places in this world that need light, 让它闪耀, because how we show up for one another matters.”
Social work graduates were joined on the field by their unofficial mascot, 盖茨比, a service dog who assists 艾玛·玛丽·弗朗西斯, G’24. Emma has a rare genetic disorder called Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, and 盖茨比 helps her in many ways including safely climbing over curbs and picking up objects.
Shaped by her personal challenges, Emma looks forward to helping others after graduation as a therapist.
“It’s really exciting, and I feel like a lot more opportunities have opened up for me,”她说。.
国际学生 乔纳森开始钟声, G’24, of Uganda, also sees his future coming into focus. 他研究了 计算机科学 with the goal of working in artificial intelligence. He’s already secured his first job in the rapidly developing field as a technical writer.
But first he took time to enjoy the commencement spotlight.
“I feel relieved all the hard work is done,” Jonathan said. “This is the celebration point.”
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