Elon University celebrated its 113th Commencement outside "Under the Oaks" May 24 as 864 members of the Class of 2003 walked across the stage in front of West Hall to receive their diplomas...
After three days of almost constant rain, the only reminders of the inclement weather were clouds, wet grass and unseasonably cool temperatures. But nothing could dampen the spirit of the crowd of more than 10,000 faculty, family members and friends of the graduates.
Senior Class President Christian Brescia told his classmates that it is their responsibility to support future generations of graduates. “Many of us will become powerful executives, peacekeepers, philanthropists, mothers and fathers, husbands and wives. A few of us may even pop up in Hollywood. No matter where you are guided, never forget about the wonderful things this university has given us,” Brescia said.
University of Maryland Athletics Director Deborah Yow-Bowden, a 1974 Elon graduate, received an honorary doctor of humane letters before delivering the Commencement address. She told the graduating seniors that the foundation she received at Elon helped prepare her for a successful career in collegiate athletics.
“Nothing can replace an education like the one you and I have experienced,” she said. “We’ve been taught critical-thinking skills by Elon professors, coaches and administrators. We’ve learned to appreciate the value of having a personal spiritual life, and we have learned the value of local and community service. What a foundation!”
Yow-Bowden said that when she faced difficult situations — such as becoming the head women’s basketball coach at the University of Kentucky at age 25 and being the only female candidate for the athletics director position at the St. Louis University — she used her Elon education to get through hard times. “You know, you’re going to face challenges of all kinds, and when you do, please don’t forget about what you’ve learned here at Elon. And don’t give up. Be persistent. Refuse to quit!”
The crowd was full of excited family members such as those waiting to see sports medicine major William Parker walk across the stage. Parker’s aunt, Jeanette Gregory, was seated with a group of relatives including his mother, father, sister and grandfather.
“He is the first grandchild to graduate from college. There’s his sister down there,” Gregory said, pointing to the middle of the row.
“She’s going to follow in his footsteps.”
On Friday, 22 students received master’s degrees in business administration during a separate ceremony in Whitley Auditorium. Earlier this month, 24 students were awarded master’s degrees in physical therapy.
Following commencement, Elon’s newest alumni gathered around Fonville Fountain to greet family, friends and Elon faculty and staff. Graduates also picked up small oak tree saplings, a commencement tradition and a symbol of their enduring connection to Elon.