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The 269 members of Colby-Sawyer's Class of 2026 were celebrated at the college's 188th Commencement on Saturday, May 9.
The associate, bachelor's, master's and doctoral students also received sage advice and words of wisdom — from peers, a favorite professor and the institution's president.
Below are several speech highlights and photographs taken by Anthony Riso '16.
Professor Jon Keenan, bagpiper Eryk Bean and Professor Shari L. Goldberg lead the processional.
Sophie Pedro, senior Commencement speaker:
It's not just about what we do. It’s about who we do it with and who we do it for. In the end, degrees open doors, but people change lives.
To all the other families and friends in this room, and to the proffers, coaches and mentors of all kinds, thank you for loving and supporting the people I’ve had the privilege of walking beside. Because by pouring into them, you helped shape every single one of us into who we are today.
"Life is, and always has been, about people," said Sophie Pedro. "Our lives will always be shaped by those around us."
Jeff Larson, graduate & professional studies Commencement speaker:
Think about a time you felt welcomed and how you may carry that forward as you enter the next stages of your life.
Let us take what we have learned at Colby-Sawyer and leverage it to explore thoughtfully, ask the difficult questions, find our voice against injustice and genuinely connect with others so that we may make a difference in the places it is most needed.
Let us lead with compassion, grounded in values and ethics, and commit to positive change.
The Class of 2026, family, friends, faculty, staff and trustees fill Hogan Sports Center.
Brandon Arvesen, Jack Jensen Award for Excellence in Teaching recipient:
So, when someone asks you what comes next, remember it is not only OK but representative of your education to say, 'I don’t know.'
Where are you going to live after graduation? I don’t know.
Are you going to move in with your boyfriend/girlfriend? I don't know.
Where do you see your career in five years? I don’t know.
BUT… I can figure it out.
Grayson Rowell's future's so bright she's wearing shades.
President Dean McCurdy:
We, your staff and faculty, are honored to have been part of your journey. We are excited for what comes next for each of you, and we will all be here, still connected, cheering you on from our college on the hill.
Christina Cashman, left, congratulates Madison Fuller, center, who majored in nursing, and Miranda Fuller, who earned a degree in environmental science.