Chapman University Commencement Ceremony - Class of 2024

Introduction and Procession

Welcome Speech: Opening address to students, families, and guests.
The Chapman University Mace: Carried by the Grand Marshal.
Gonfalons: Represent the schools and colleges, featuring the Chapman window and four educational pillars (Intellectual, Physical, Spiritual, and Social).
Faculty and Deans: Introduction of the distinguished faculty and Deans of Chapman University.

**Key Figures Introduced: **
- Faculty Deans (e.g., Dean of Leatherby Libraries, Kevin Ross; Interim VP of Marketing & Communications, Garrett Ashley).
- Members of Governing Boards: Chair of the Board of Governors, Michael Penn; Chair of Board of Trustees, Parker Kennedy.
- University Leadership: Executive VP, Provost, and Chief Academic Officer Norma Bouchard; University President Daniele Strupa.

Acknowledge Challenges: Remote instruction, virtual gatherings, global pandemic, and the students' grit and determination.
Celebrating Triumphs: Marking the completion of academic journey and the start of lifelong learning.
Community Celebration: Emphasize supporting each other and continue being part of Chapman community.
Advice for Future: Embrace new challenges with skills acquired at Chapman; importance of enjoying this achievement.

Introduction: Rachel Burns; BS in Health Sciences, minor in Nutrition; significant roles in student government.
Importance of Community: Chapman’s appeal lies in its people and community building even through unique and virtual means.
Covid Context: Struggle and resilience during pandemic, emphasizing privilege in celebrating in person.
Chapman Highlights: Unique arts culture, faculty support, classroom experiences.
Advice: Continue to choose your community; define success by community and personal relationships, not just titles and salaries.

**Student Awards Presented: **
- Outstanding Diversity Leadership Award: Lorena Munoz.
- Paul S. Delp Award for Public Service: Mo Hijazi.
- Ronald M. Huntington Award for Scholarly Accomplishments: Bernadine Cortina and Kevin Nguyen.
- Gloria and Julian Peterson Award for Exemplary Leadership: Emily Velos.
- Sheverton Award: Rachel Burns.
- James L. Doty Outstanding Graduate Student Award: Audrey Fong and Kaitlyn Kitchens.

Engagement: Importance of staying connected with and contributing to the Alumni network.
Two Requests: Share your successes with the Alumni Association; volunteer your time as a mentor or at events.
Chapman Experience: Building on the legacy of Chapman and creating a powerful alumni community.

Recognizing Milestones: Both personal academic milestones for students and institutional achievements for Chapman.
Institutional Achievements: Reaffirmation of R2 status, top rankings, significant faculty contributions.
**Faculty Recognitions: **
- Valerie Scutter Award winners.
- Wang-Franck Professorship honorees.
Honorary Degree Recipients: Recognized for contributions in various fields including arts, law, business.
- Michael Belay, James Dodie, Scott Lauren Sanders, Donald Sodaro.

Preparation Mishap: Thought he was addressing the film school; lesson in reading emails carefully.
Career Advice:
- Be on time, avoid drama, and learn from mistakes.
- Importance of learning to write and engaging deeply with your craft/art.
- Value in defining personal success rather than comparing to others.
- Embracing the process of improvement and learning.
- Physical self-care and well-being.
Grandmother’s Advice: Don’t worry about shit you can’t control.

Class Medals: Symbolic of their time and experiences at Chapman.
Conferral: Officially conferred degrees, tassels switched from right to left.

Congratulations: Commendation to the graduates for their journey and encouragement for their future.