When I first started working in higher education not quite four years ago, I remember somebody that I knew at the time telling me that working for a university is all about ceremonies and rituals. While I tend to think it's about much more than that, I believe that there is no more exciting ceremony than that of commencement and graduation.
This weekend marks the annual commencement exercises here on campus at Sacred Heart University. It's a thrilling time to be here, as the stage is being set-up, eager graduates are coming back to campus to get their caps and gowns, and various last minute preparations are being made.
For those of us hard-working SHU employees, this time of year marks the end of another semester and academic year. It gives us a brief moment or two to reflect and relax and catch our breath. Speaking of relaxing and catching our breath, SHU's president, Dr. Petillo hosted a wonderful barbecue for all faculty and staff this past Wednesday. And while the inclement weather forced the event to be held inside, it was great to be able to visit with colleagues from other departments who I don't get to see very often, and enjoy a juicy hamburger and a cold beverage. There was even an ice cream truck on campus, and many faculty and staff lined-up to get their hands on an ice cream sandwich or drumstick.
This is the fourth commencement ceremony I have been a part of since coming to work at SHU in the summer of 2008. Just a little while ago I was looking at a list of the part-time undergraduate students who will be earning their degrees this Sunday. It was wonderful to see the names of so many hardworking adult students who I have gotten to know over the last four years. I wish them well, and extend to them (and all SHU 2012 graduates) my congratulations.
Best of luck!
