Graduates heading to the Commencement Ceremony. (Photo from Gettysburg College)
By Brandon Fey, News Editor
The Commencement Ceremony for the Class of 2025 was held on Saturday, May 17 on the lawn of Pennsylvania Hall. The graduating class processed through the building following an introduction from History Professor Michael Birkner.
The national anthem was sung by Ani Griffin Morimoto ’25 after which Birkner explained that the ceremony would begin and end with the opening and closing of the Class of 2025 flag. He then introduced Chaplain Michael Bright for the Invocation and land acknowledgment.
President Robert Iuliano delivered his initial remarks, likening the experiences of the graduating class to that of famous American educator and university president Ruth Simmons, who remarked at the role that her family and professors had in helping her overcome adversity. He introduced the Student Commencement Speaker Ratul Pradhan ’25.
Student Commencement Speaker Ratul Pradhan ’25 (Photo from Gettysburg College)
In his speech, Pradhan described Gettysburg as a “microcosm of intersections,” highlighting the diverse opportunities he has had at Gettysburg College. He emphasized the uniqueness of the school and the bonds he has made with students across various interests and backgrounds.
Next, the Senior Gift Committee, chaired by Juliette Rhinow ’25, Joseph Labrie ’25 and Colton Phillips ’25 announced that 140 members of the Class of 2025 participated in the philanthropic Senior Class Gift Campaign, raising a total of $13,416. They also shared that one donor was inspired by this success to endow a “Class of 2025 Gettysburg Fund Scholarship” to be given to an incoming student of the Class of 2030.
Provost Jamilla Bookwala introduced commencement speaker, Carol Daly Cantele ’83, the former coach of the Gettysburg College women’s lacrosse team. Cantelli won several national championships and was inducted into the Lacrosse Hall of Fame.
Carol Daly Cantele ’83 delivering her Commencement Address. (Photo from Gettysburg College)
In her speech, Cantele spoke about her long connection to Gettysburg College. She referenced her time as a student and a coach. She shared a story about her determination to attend Gettysburg despite dissuasion from her counselor and deferred enrollment. Her message to the Class of 2025 was “if you can believe it, you can achieve it” and to “live everyday like it’s game day.”
Diplomas were then distributed and the school alma mater was led by Vivan Davenport ’25 before President Iuliano presented the Class of 2025.
