On May 11, Cedar Crest College honored the Class of 2024 at the 154th Commencement Ceremony at the PPL Center in Allentown. The event celebrated the achievements of 221 students from 23 states and 12 countries.
President Elizabeth Meade opened the ceremony, highlighting the graduates’ resilience and adaptability, especially those who began their studies during the pandemic. She praised their contributions to the Cedar Crest community and their readiness to face future challenges.
“You may think that today marks the end of your time at Cedar Crest, but ‘Commencement’ actually means ‘beginning,’” said President Meade. “This ceremony marks the beginning of your journey as Cedar Crest alums, the beginning of your professional careers, and the beginning of the next phase of your life.”
Student speaker Isabel Sandone further echoed this sentiment, reflecting the preparedness Cedar Crest instilled in her to tackle future opportunities. “Cedar Crest has taught us all the skills to adapt, to overcome, and to be prepared for whatever comes our way.”
Casey Swails, NASA Deputy Associate Administrator, delivered a powerful Commencement address, urging graduates to embrace the unknown and seize opportunities. She shared her journey from a small town in Georgia to NASA, emphasizing exploration, collaboration, and connection. Swails’ inspiring words assured graduates that the future holds endless possibilities.
“Great things lie ahead, even if you don’t know what they are,” said Swails. “I challenge you to get comfortable being uncomfortable and to embrace the unknown – that’s where the magic happens.”
The ceremony was a celebration of the graduates’ diverse experiences, from studying abroad to community service projects, to the impact they made on the campus community. It also marked the graduation of the first cohort of Occupational Therapy doctoral students.
Congratulations to the Class of 2024! Your journey is just beginning, and we look forward to seeing the incredible impact you’ll make on the world.
