Smiles and Hugs were shared. Tears were shed. Dreams fulfilled.
Commencement is the culmination of a long journey of hard
work and preparation leading to the future of each student and the fulfillment
of dreams of their family.Smiles and Hugs were shared. Tears were shed. Dreams fulfilled.
Commencement is the culmination of a long journey of hard
work and preparation leading to the future of each student and the fulfillment
of dreams of their family.
On May 10, 1997, Marshall University celebrated its 160th Commencement exercise with the proud families, friends, faculty and staff, and honored guests on hand to witness the conferring of degrees on 1,900 graduates from all areas of the University.
Lead by the traditional academic processional, the degree candidates, faculty and administration representatives, and platform party were lead by Chief Marshal, Professor David R. Woodward, bearing the Grand Mace. The placing of the Grand Mace signifies the solemnity of the occasion and officially denote the opening of the ceremonies.
Music was provided by the Marshall University Symphonic Band conducted by Professor Ben S. Miller. The National Anthem was performed by the rousing Professor Paul A. Balshaw of the Music Department. The Invocation was delivered by Professor A. McDowell, Professor of Counseling.
President J. Wade Gilley presided over the 160th commencement,
as well as conferring the degrees on the graduates.
The Honorable Cecil H. Underwood, Governor of The State
of West Virginia, provided the Commencement Address. In his address, he
emphasized the pride that citizens should have in West Virginia and the
accomplishments of Marshall University. The Governor outlined his goals
for the state and the need for partnerships in the private, educational,
economic, and political arenas.