It is starting to feel quiet on campus and you can sense that an ending is near. When I step outside, I am greeted by clusters of students in commencement gowns and caps all waiting their turn to be photographed on the steps of Old Main, or I find myself on the very pleasant side of a selfie with a graduating senior. There seems to be a perfect mix of “sad to go” and “happy for the future.”
I’m always thrilled to pose for some quick photos with our soon-to-be graduates, but I also take the moment to ask our students “what’s next?” The optimism about their futures is contagious. The breadth of jobs, travel or graduate school plans is impressive.
Commencement is one of the most exciting times on a university campus. It is the culmination of years of hard work and maturation. It’s a time to recognize and celebrate all that has been accomplished.
For me, it is a time of considerable pride.
Congratulations Class of 2016 and thanks for sharing your time with us at Penn State.
Do great things.
