Daemen University celebrated its 75th commencement with undergraduate and graduate ceremonies on Saturday, May 16, at Kleinhans Music Hall.
Daemen President Gary A. Olson commended the graduates for their dedication and perseverance, and reminded them, “Perhaps the most important ability you have acquired is a habit of mind—the ability to think critically and analytically about the world. This is an ability that will help you make wise choices for the rest of your life.”
Psychological Sciences student Anna Mangialomini received the Charles Lumsden Award—an award presented annually to the senior with the highest cumulative grade point average in the graduating class. Mangialomini maintained a 4.0 GPA throughout her undergraduate studies and graduated summa cum laude.
Former TV anchor Don Postles served as the undergraduate commencement speaker, reminding students about the importance of carrying their moral compass as they go out in the world, saying, “Success is important, but character is essential. Achievement means more when it’s matched by compassion, integrity, and service. As you move forward, always look for ways to help others and give back to the community. Be the kind of person who makes life better for the people around you.”
Chief Executive Officer of Erie County Medical Center Corporation (ECMC) Thomas J. Quatroche, Jr., PhD served as the graduate commencement speaker. He encouraged graduates to find a mentor. “This may be the single most important thing you do in your professional life,” he said, adding, “I challenge you to reach out to someone you admire and just ask them to meet. If they don’t respond, reach out to someone else. It might be the most valuable thing you do to accelerate your learning, your career, and your life.”
Postles and Quatroche were each awarded the honorary degree of Doctor of Humane Letters during their respective ceremonies.