Campuses:
Commence: to have or make a beginning, to start.
Often we seem to view commencement as the end. The necessary course work has been completed. The program is finished. Following the commencement ceremony we say goodbye to friends, faculty and advisers. At least that’s how I thought of commencement as a student.
But commencement is really the beginning of a new adventure. A new phase in life, with new challenges and new opportunities. One of the most gratifying aspects of working in alumni relations is interaction with students—our future alumni—through mentor and career development programming and student leadership activities. I feel like a proud mom (or big sister!) when I see students that I met as freshmen four years earlier walk across the stage at Northrop Auditorium. With the knowledge of the impact they made on campus, I am eager to see the great ways they’ll contribute to society in their chosen fields. CFANS students are passionate about the future. They have great ideas. They turn their passions into action, much like the grads that came before them.
It’s reassuring to know that once again this May, 360 individuals will be begin new journeys and join the ranks of 25,000 CFANS graduates who support the college in so many ways.
They may return as mentors—this year more than 85 individuals served as mentors to undergraduate and grad students helping them to explore the many opportunities that await them.
They may serve and support the college by participating in programs such as Classes without Quizzes, a half-day program that helps people learn more about CFANS research.
Or they may help recognize aspiring students learn about opportunities available in the areas of food, agriculture and natural resources through the CFANS Alumni Society sponsored Science Achievement Award. Twenty-four high school juniors were recognized with this award in 2009.
Or perhaps they will contribute to a scholarship in honor of a faculty member or to support their favorite academic program. In fact, last year $1.2 million will be awarded to 415 new and returning students in the college. More than ever this support is critical and appreciated by the student recipients.
So to all of our new graduates: Welcome to this new stage in your life. You’ve already done so many things, and your future hold so much promise. I look forward to seeing where your adventures take you next, and to staying connected with you for many more new beginnings.
