University College of Syracuse University honored the part-time undergraduate students of the Class of 2009 at its 61st annual Convocation and Commencement Celebration held May 7 at Goldstein Auditorium in Schine Student Center.
Dean Bea González presided over the ceremony, which featured keynote speaker Sheila Marie Aird, assistant professor and Academic Area Coordinator of Global Studies at SUNY Empire State College. Aird began her education as a University College student through the Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP), and went on to receive bachelor's and master's degrees from SU's Maxwell School. She later earned a second master’s degree as well as her Ph.D. from Howard University.
In her remarks, González reminded the audience of mostly adult students that they make a significant impact not only on campus, but in the broader community. “You serve as role models for your family members, co-workers, and classmates,” said González. “You are an inspiration to your instructors, mentors, faculty members and those who have supported you in your journey.”
The part-time undergraduates eligible to receive degrees through University College this year included 61 baccalaureate and six associate degree students. Eight students from the Arthur O. Eve Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP) students were also among the part-time undergraduates earning degrees. The HEOP program at UC is funded by a grant from New York State.
University College named twelve students as prestigious Alumni Scholars. Each earned a cumulative grade point average of 3.667 or higher. Alumni Scholars are: Angela Alvarez de Sanin, Melissa L. Cavaiola, Tara L. Dion, Dawn R. Hartigan, Christopher A. Kalbfleisch, Michael J. Milac, Jeffrey J. Montalbano, Jeffrey C. Richards, Eyal D. Sherman, Ria Shibata, Michelle A. Simmons, Elizabeth H. Slate.
Melissa L. Cavaiola earned the prestigious Nancy C. Gelling Book Award, given annually to the part-time student who achieves the highest overall grade point average for a first bachelor’s degree.
The College of Visual and Performing Arts awarded Vincent Fitches the Sylvia Wyckoff Award for outstanding academic achievement.
The School of Social Work in the College of Human Services and Health Professions awarded its highest honor for part-time students, the Hortence Cochrane Award, to Jenny L. Terrero.
Additionally, UC awarded the Excellence in Teaching Award to James T. Spencer, professor of chemistry and associate dean for mathematics, sciences, research, and facilities in The College of Arts and Sciences. This award recognizes excellence in service and dedication to part-time students.
Following the presentation of student and community awards, the College presented pins to each of its graduates.
The hour-long ceremony was immediately followed by a reception.
To maximize access to the ceremony for distance students and others who could not attend, the college offers video access to the event on its web site. Click here to access the University College broadcast.
Click here to access the Syracuse University Commencement ceremony that took place in the Carrier Dome on Sunday, May 10.
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