One hundred and seventy-four students graduated from the University of Maine at Presque Isle on May 16, during the 2015 commencement exercises — the university’s 106th commencement ceremony. President Linda Schott conferred degrees for the 2014-15 academic year upon 122 students who participated in the event, held in Wieden Gymnasium.
Following the singing of the national anthems for both the United States and Canada, Schott introduced guest dignitaries: State Sen. Peter Edgecomb; State Representatives Anthony Edgecomb, Carol McElwee, Dustin White and Michael Willette; Sharon Roix, Class of 1964, and president of the Alumni Association; James Stepp, dean of students; Jacquelyn Lowman (and her service dog, Saint); Chancellor James Page, University of Maine System; J. Duke Albanese, guest speaker; James Donnelly, UMS Board of Trustees; Stephen Richard, chair, Board of Visitors; and Raymond Rice, provost and vice president for academic and student affairs. A video depicting last year’s guest speaker, Ellis Paul, singing “Rise Up Presque Isle,” a song he wrote specifically for UMPI’s graduation ceremony, was played for the audience.
“We are so proud of our graduating class and the hard work they have done to get to this moment,” said Schott.
Schott then recognized faculty, past and present, who were present for the festivities.
Donnelly followed, telling the graduating class he hoped they’d been “inspired to build a better place.”
“As you move on to start your next great adventure, be it a graduate degree or rewarding career, I wish you well. Keep your memories close and relatives closer. Hold these times and lessons close to your heart,” said Donnelly. “Congratulations and best wishes on your next step in your great adventure.”
The chancellor spoke next.
“Congratulations. You made the investment; remember your alma mater and the state that will need you in years to come,” said Page.
Richard spoke to the graduates, stating he knew they’d do well because of the “great experience you’ve had.”
“Continue to support your community. We love to read where your wings brought you. Give back to communities as others have,” said Richard, who was referring to the pin in the form of wings each student received upon earning their degree. Students are encouraged to share photos with UMPI of themselves wearing the pin as they continue their life’s journey.
Lowman said faculty present were much like the Class of 2015, achieving because they had “people who believed in them.”
“We’re here for you. Education can open any door. Go out and change the world. You can be that difference,” said Lowman.
Victoria Winslow told her fellow classmates, “We did it; we survived finals and earned our degrees.”
She said for many, making it through college was a matter of making many lists — sharing her own “Top 10” list with those in attendance.
Winslow’s list included: first, fly like an owl; second, don’t procrastinate; third, remember that faculty and staff care and want to see us soar; fourth, keep a healthy work/life balance; fifth, do what makes you happy; sixth, never stop asking questions; seventh, Google is the best thing ever; eighth, live on college if you can; ninth, don’t let life pass you by; and 10th, you learn who true friends are while in college.
“As an owl, we need to step back and see the opportunities right in front of us. No matter where your wings take you, the flight ends here,” said Winslow.
It was then guest speaker Duke Albanese’s turn at the podium. He too shared his “Top 10” list with graduates.
“Time spent in college was the four best years of my life. It was a game changer for me and my family. The professors and coaches helped me change in so many ways, as have yours,” said Albanese. “Relationships made (in college) help you soar in the real world.”
Albanese then read his list, which included: first, never stop learning; second, be good in your character; third, be an active citizen; fourth, engage old people; fifth, practice balance in your life; sixth, cherish family and friends; seventh, practice carpe diem — seize the day; eighth, stay connected/maintain ties with college friends and support UMPI; ninth, attend to your health and well-being; and 10th, maintain a lifelong practice of giving back.
“Do for others, mentor, be a role model for children,” said Albanese.
Albanese, a national leader in the effort to redesign public education and learning for all students, currently serves as a senior policy advisor for the Great Schools Partnership, a nonprofit school-support organization based in Portland, that works with schools across the nation to redesign public education and improve learning for all students. Following his speech, Albanese was presented with an Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree by Schott, Page and Donnelly.
Commencement exercises concluded with the presentation of degrees.
