Georgian Court University GraduatesReceive Diplomas
GeorgianCourt University, located in Lakewood, New Jersey, celebrated thegraduation ceremony of its class of 2021 on May 19th. Over 600undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral students were conferred withdiplomas in a social-distance-observed ceremony at the university'sathletic field, cheered on by their loved ones and peers.
Dr.S. Joseph Nardone, the university's president, delivered a rousingcommencement address, commending the resilience and dedication of theclass of 2021 in overcoming the challenges that marked their academicachievements. He cited the COVID-19 pandemic that forced them toadopt virtual instruction and abide by strict health protocols, aswell as the calls for social justice that demanded their voices andactions.
"Graduates,you have proven that nothing can shake your commitment to youreducation and your values. Your perseverance reflects the mission ofour university to empower you to become transformational leaders inyour communities and the world," Dr. Nardone said.
Thegraduates, who hailed from various states and countries, likewiseexpressed their elation and gratitude for the university's guidanceand support throughout their academic journey. They stressed theimportance of the university's core values of respect, integrity,justice, and compassion that instilled in them a sense ofresponsibility and purpose.
"Thepast four years have been a transformative experience for me.Georgian Court University has enabled me to grow intellectually,personally, and spiritually. I will carry the lessons I have learnedand the friendships I have built with me as I embark on a new chapterof my life," said Elizabeth Smith, a Bachelor of Arts inPsychology graduate.
Theuniversity also honored four distinguished guests who exemplified itsFranciscan values and made significant contributions to theirrespective fields. They were Bishop David M. O'Connell, president ofthe Catholic University of America, who received an Honorary Degreeof Doctor of Humane Letters; Dorothy Luhmann, '72, community leaderand philanthropist, who received an Honorary Degree of Doctor ofHumane Letters; Margarita Rey-Vizgirdas, Ph.D., professor of biologyand environmental science, who received the Excellence in TeachingAward; and Victoria Bellucci, '13, instructional coach at Asbury ParkSchool District, who received the Excellence in Service Award.
Thegraduation ceremony capped off a rich and diverse academic year,marked by numerous accomplishments in research, service, andathletics. Georgian Court University has once again demonstrated itsunwavering commitment to academic excellence and socialresponsibility, laying the groundwork for its graduates to achievetheir aspirations and make a positive impact in the world.