Southern Illinois University Edwardsville celebrated more than 500 graduates today during its August commencement exercises. The summer ceremony took place this morning in the Vadalabene Center. Watch commencement on siue.edu/tv.
SIUE Chancellor Julie Furst-Bowe along with Interim Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Ann Boyle addressed the graduates.
Furst-Bowe complimented the grads for their achievement and impact. “You’ve come from a wide variety of backgrounds with a broad base of experience and interests,” she said. “And yet, you all have in common the fact that you’ve forever changed this University.”
The chancellor challenged the graduating class to maintain its values and focus. “Those who develop a long-term plan and fully engage in the opportunities presented along the way and who give back, you will experience the most success. As a part of this long-range view, and to help those following you, remember to support public higher education in the years to come.”
The student speaker was Alyssa Patton of Bethalto. She graduated with a bachelor’s in political science from the College of Arts and Sciences. Patton focused on the various surprises that a student experiences during one’s matriculation.
“Although we’ve had both good and bad surprises, we’ve all succeeded, triumphed and overcome,” Patton said. “We didn’t do it by ourselves as we’ve had the help of a teacher, family member, spouse or friend. There are difficult and delightful times ahead, but I challenge you to persevere. You just might surprise yourself!”
Kevin Nesselhauf, president-elect of the SIUE Alumni Association board of directors, welcomed all the graduates into the alumni association.
Photo: SIUE student commencement speaker Alyssa Patton of Bethalto.