2013 Commencement T
Christopher Newport graduates largest class in school’s history.
his year’s Commencement Exercises held Saturday, May 11, honored the largest graduating class in Christopher Newport’s history — 1,170 men and women ready to make a significant impact on the world. Approximately 12,000 people — including family, friends and members of the CNU community — gathered on the beautiful Great Lawn to recognize the Class of 2013 and celebrate their many accomplishments. 1
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Larry Pope, President and Chief Executive Officer of Smithfield Foods, one of America’s largest and most respected corporations, gave the keynote address. a2 In his remarks to the graduates, he stressed that it is now their turn to “make the world a better place,” emphasizing that the greatest satisfaction they will receive is in “doing something good for someone else.” He noted, “I wish for all of you much success and happiness in the years ahead. Make us all proud, and more importantly, remember to commit random acts of kindness.” The University presented both Pope and Robert L. Freeman Sr. with honorary degrees a3, recognizing their leadership and commitment to the success of CNU, our community and commonwealth. Andrew Garmon (’13) received this year’s Gregory Klich Academic Achievement Award, presented to the graduate with the highest cumulative grade-point average (GPA). a4 Recipients must begin and end their academic career at CNU. Garmon earned a 1 3.99 GPA, graduating summa cum laude with a BS degree in applied physics and a second major in computational and applied mathematics. Commencement capped off a week of senior activities in honor of the graduating class — the annual senior picnic, departmental receptions, a senior art exhibit and myriad other events. Four ROTC cadets took their oath of office to defend and serve our country as commissioned officers in the armed forces. They included Katelyn Hall (’13), Patrick Leegan (’13), James Morris (’13) and Stephen Murphy (’13). 5
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Many graduates received Latin honors for their high academic achievement at the Convocation for the Conferring of Honors and Awards. Faculty awarded emeritus status and those promoted in rank or awarded tenure were also honored. Dr. Graham Schweig, Professor of Philosophy and Religious Studies, received the 2013 Alumni Society Award for Excellence in Teaching and Mentoring. a6 Last year’s recipient, Dr. Elizabeth Kaufer Busch, Associate Professor of Leadership and American Studies, gave the keynote address. The night before commencement, the Class of 2013 attended the traditional sunset candlelight ceremony, commemorating their transition to CNU alumni. a7 Immediately following the candlelight, graduates attended the President’s Reception, celebrating their final night as CNU students. 8
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Members of the Class of 1963, celebrating 50 years since they received their own diplomas, were on hand to honor Christopher Newport’s newest graduates. The 50th anniversary class was also recognized at commencement. a9 d — Matt Schnepf
Online exclusive: Read Larry Pope's full commencement address at voyages.cnu.edu.