Commencement
2014
It was a true meeting of the generations when Millersville University hosted its 158th Commencement on May 10. The keynote speaker was Lieutenant General David L. Mann ’81, a three-star general who is commander of the United States Army Space and Missile Command/Army Forces Strategic Command in Alabama. He was introduced by Dr. William B. McIlwaine, a member of the Millersville University Council of Trustees who fought in the Battle of the Bulge in World War II seven decades earlier. “That was a few years ago,” joked McIlwaine, professor emeritus who was profiled in the winter 2014 edition of Review as part of a series honoring Millersville alumni who have served our country in the military. Mann was also presented with an honorary doctorate of letters. Before an audience of some 1,100 graduates, he spoke of taking pride in one’s accomplishments, and while some might view pride as a sin, it does not have to be that way. “It’s… important to take pride in your country,” Mann said. He noted the words of President Theodore Roosevelt, who once said that “the credit belongs to the man in the arena.” Mann encouraged the new graduates and audience to “embrace and persevere.” He added, “Be proud of your country, and the liberties you enjoy.”
Right : World War II veteran Dr. William B. McIlwaine (in red gown) gives a solemn salute to Lt. General David Mann.
12 Review Spring/Summer 2014
Everyone celebrates graduation a bit differently—from clowning around with friends (top) to sporting fun “grad” glasses (above, left) to a heartfelt hug (above, right).