Class of 2022 Graduation (Photo courtesy of Gettysburg College)
By Laken Franchetti, Assistant News Editor
On Saturday, May 14 at 11 a.m., graduates of Gettysburg College’s class of 2022 lined up to process through Pennsylvania Hall. This college tradition has students pass through the building during their first year at Opening Convocation and then again for graduation.
The Processional was led by College Marshal and History Professor Michael J. Birkner ’72, and the Commencement Brass Ensemble played throughout. The National Anthem was sung by Alexandra Charney ’22, and the posting of the class flag was done by Valedictorian Jordyn Marie Markle ’22. Director of Religious Life and Spiritual Life and College Chaplain Michael Bright gave a land acknowledgement and the Invocation.
President Robert Iuliano gave opening remarks that called on graduates to recognize the future that awaits them.
“It is because of this mission and advocacy during your time here that we can feel the tremble of necessary change beneath our feet. Together, you’re approaching this new horizon with the tools and disposition to make a real and lasting difference, each in your own unique way. It is what your consequential education has empowered you to do,” President Iuliano said.
President Iuliano then welcomed Phoebe Doscher ’22 to deliver the Senior Address, reflecting on the journey from Opening Convocation as a first year to Commencement.
“As you process across the stage and finally hold your diploma in your hand, the culmination of all your hard work, I implore you to think back to that person looking up at the sun glinting off the top of the Cupola four years ago,” Doscher said. “Remember that the person you were four years ago, 10 years ago, even 20 years ago, is still there. Embrace this moment knowing that this version of yourself is right here, right now is filled to the brim with memories, experiences, and incredible lessons from this place and is ready to act upon them.”
Lyndsey Winick ’22 announced the results of the senior class gift of $3,646 to the Gettysburg fund to support scholarships, academic departments, athletic teams, the arts, and other selected programs on campus.
Chair of the Board of Trustees David Brennan ’75 presented U.S. Congresswoman Stephanie Murphy with the honorary degree of Doctor of Public Service. Representative Murphy then gave the Commencement Address to offer words of encouragement to the graduating class.
“Your diploma bears a name: Gettysburg. That is central to the American story and represents what is best about the American spirit. That should make you feel proud and humble. As a Gettysburg graduate, you are now ready to do great work for your community, your county, and your world,” Representative Murphy said.
President Iuliano then presented the Conferring of Degrees for the Bachelor of Arts, Science, Music, and Music Education. Candidates were presented by Associate Provost for Faculty Development & Dean of Social Sciences and Interdisciplinary Programs, and Professor of Africana Studies Jennifer Collins Bloomquist as well as Associate Provost for Academic Assessment & Dean of Natural Sciences, Computer Science, and Mathematics, and Professor of Mathematics Darren Glass.
President of the Alumni Board of Directors Brian Orsinger ’01 welcomed the class of 2022 into the Alumni Association and explained the college’s tradition of stoles of gratitude. President Iuliano then delivered his charge to graduates.
“Dream daringly. Be brave in the face of changing tides and problems, that at first, may seem insurmountable. Step forward into the arena of tomorrow’s ideas, policies, debates, and decisions, and lend your voice and best thinking to our future,” Iuliano said. “Believe in yourself. Because when all is said and done, the courage to try is the courage to truly live.”
Zachary de Besche ’22 sang the Alma Mater in accompaniment with the Commencement Brass Ensemble. Chaplain Bright closed the Commencement ceremony with the Benediction.
