Elon holds 115th Commencement exercises

Elon University awarded 977 degrees during its 115th Commencement exercises, held under the oaks on campus May 21.

Elon trustee Jeanne Swanner Robertson, a nationally known professional speaker and humorist, delivered the Commencement address.

“Each of you in your own way has inspired us for the past four years,” said Robertson, an avid supporter of the university and the parent of a 1989 Elon graduate. “Today, you deserve to be inspired.”

A former Miss North Carolina and Miss Congeniality in the Miss America pageant, Robertson is the author of three books on humor. She encouraged graduates to look for humor wherever they could find it-in the airport, at a football game or on the job.

Robertson said finding humor in everyday situations brings many benefits, such as friendship, improved health, career advancement and even an improved attitude during stressful times. “In the big world, you’re going get so inundated with stuff that you may think there’s no humor happening. Oh, it’s happening,” she said.

Graduates and their families had a chance to celebrate along with Elon faculty and staff at a post-commencement reception on Scott Plaza.

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