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2007 Commencement

Utah State University Brigham City held their 15th Annual Commencement and Graduate Recognition ceremony on Friday, April 20, 2007, at the Box Elder High School.  Dr. Andy Shinkle, Executive Director of the Utah State University Brigham City Regional Campus, conducted the ceremony.  Associate, baccalaureate, and master’s degrees, as well as Administrative Supervisory Certificates were conferred upon 57 graduates.

 
Dr. Carol Strong, Dean of the College of Education and Human Services, addressed the graduates. She shared her university experiences as a non-traditional student, who began university studies at a later age in life.  She related some of the obstacles she had faced as a single mother of two trying to balance family, work, and educational demands.  Dr. Strong spoke on overcoming weaknesses, perseverance, and the obligation we all have in contributing service to our communities and our fellow man. 
 
Jodi Fletcher, a graduate in Deaf Education and Communicative Disorders, relayed how she had made the decision to return to school after many years of being a homemaker. Returning to school and obtaining a degree were not in her plans. However, faced with changing and challenging family circumstances she decided to pursue her dream.  Although at times the journey was difficult, earning a degree has been one of her most rewarding accomplishments.  She acknowledged the strength and support her family provided as she worked so hard to achieve her goal. 
 
Rey Mora, a student from Mexico receiving an Associate of Science in General Studies, spoke about the challenges of coming to a new country to pursue a college education.  Rey acknowledged and thanked his family, his host family in Honeyville, and especially his wife for their support and encouragement. He recalled that his parents had established an atmosphere of expectation for their children to obtain a higher education.
 
During the evening’s proceedings, the USU Brigham City Student Body representatives, presented student-choice awards for Instructor of the Year and Staff Member of the Year.  Pam Kiser, staff assistant, was recognized for her accommodating and conscientious style of helping students with various needs.  Jeanne Wayment, math instructor, was acknowledged by the students for her outstanding dedication and patience in teaching the oftentimes grueling subject of math.  Many students credit Jeanne for their ability to grasp the subject and successfully complete their required math courses. 
 
Dr. Victor Harris, a Family, Consumer, and Human Development instructor, presented a beautiful rendition of “One Moment in Time.”  Shirley Davies, USU Brigham City Business Assistant, provided accompaniment.
 
Congratulations USU Brigham City 2007 graduates. You are excellent role models for those students following in your footsteps. Best wishes and much success to you in your future endeavors.