News Release
Contact
Nicole S. Rowe
Administrative Assistant,
Public Relations
320 DuPont Highway
New Castle, DE
19720
nicole.s.rowe@wilmu.edu
Wilmington University Recognizes Over 200 Graduates at Georgetown Commencement
Two hundred and twenty three graduates took the stage at Wilmington University’s Georgetown site on May 14 for the 41st Annual Commencement Ceremony. The ceremony was part of three commencement ceremonies held this year to recognize the class of 2012. The graduates comprise a graduating class of 2,800 students.
Wilmington University President, Dr. Jack Varsalona, commended the graduates on their achievements. He encouraged them to seek happiness in all they did, urging them to “Make your personal life an island where all who enter feel loved and cared for.” He said, “Don’t forget where you came from because that is who you are. We are so proud that our University is now a part of your history and life. We salute you.”
Donna Tarr, who received a Bachelor of Science degree in Middle Level Education, was the commencement speaker. Tarr congratulated her fellow graduates, thanked the Wilmington University faculty and staff for their support, and encouraged every audience member to continue pursuing higher education.
The staff of Wilmington University bestowed degrees ranging from associate’s to doctoral. Megan Kiser of Laurel, Del., was awarded with Trustees Award for Service. Over the years, Kiser, who works at the Delaware Technical Child Development Center as a classroom aide, has served others in her adult life, especially in her church. She volunteers in the nursery, teaches bible stories on Sunday evenings, and has served as music director of her vacation bible school for the past four years.
The Audrey K. Doberstein Award for Leadership was presented to Lydia Elsea of Selbyville, Del. Elsea, who earned a Bachelor’s degree in Middle Level Education with a Social Science and Science minor, is employed by Next Step Learning Center as a preschool teacher. She has been a positive role model for her students and has touched the lives of these young children. She also has participated in a rebuilding project in Haiti.
Before the ceremony convened, Dr. Varsalona asked graduates and audience members serving in the military, the armed forces, or as emergency medical technicians, police officers and firefighters to stand. “When danger comes around it is our natural instinct to run," he said. "But there are those whoa re courageous enough to stand and face it. We would like to recognize these individuals at this time.”
Wilmington University congratulates these 223 graduates who will join an alumni base of more that 38,000 people. The University’s New Castle ceremony will be held on Sunday May 20, when 1,197 graduates will be honored.
Congratulations to the Class of 2012.
