Article Photos

"Your challenge is to make this world a better place."

That was the message Dr. Elijah Anderson, a sociology professor at Yale University, brought home during his commencement speech on the flag court Sunday afternoon to 294 Lycoming College graduates, their friends and family, professors and college staff members.

Anderson said graduates about to step into the world and begin their lives will do so during a historic time. Anderson related America's own journey from slavery, wars and riots to the historic election of the first black president.

The U.S. is more diverse than ever, he said, and students need to use and build on what they know to remake the world with new solutions.

"You live in an amazingly diverse world," Anderson added, noting that students are about to enter a world that is different than when they first entered college.

Despite an economic situation not seen since the Great Depression, Anderson said today's graduates are better prepared for this world, as they have open minds and have been trained to live and work in the 21st century.

"The winds of social change are upon us," Anderson said. "Seize the moment. Make the most of your lives in the service of humanity."

Anderson was awarded an honorary doctorate of humane letters degree for his distinguished achievements and publications throughout his career as a sociologist.

Senior class representative Amber Rock of Chambersburg spoke on the memories created and experiences lived while in college. Among those, she conveyed the opportunities the college provides for students to serve in leadership positions, as well as giving her and her classmates a quality education.

Rock likened the experience at Lycoming College to that of one feeling like a big fish in a small pond.

"But it's time we say goodbye to our pond," she said, adding it was time to swim in the ocean of the real world. "So, let's go make some waves."

College President Dr. James E. Douthat honored the 2008-09 retirees: Donald M. Larrabee II, for 37 years as lecturer in law; Brigitte C. Brahms for 19 years of service as telecommunications coordinator; and Ruth E. Poust as day custodian for 15 years.

There were 250 bachelor of arts and 44 bachelor of science degrees given. Thirteen graduated with summa cum laude honors, 29 with magna cum laude and 52 with cum laude.

The Lycoming College Choir, led by Dr. Fred M. Thayer; the Lycoming College Concert Band, led by Dr. William S. Ciabattari; and the carillon, played by Dr. Gary M. Boerckel, offered music for the afternoon.