Over 175 students graduate at Winter Commencement
Over 175 students walked during the Winter Commencement ceremony for Fairmont State University that took place on Saturday in the Feaster Center.
Mike Ross, former West Virginia senator and president of Ross and Wharton Gas Company, served as the commencement speaker.
“I want you to take something with you, work hard for what you want and remember that attitude is important,” he said. “Attitude is more important than facts, more important than what people say.”
Ross encouraged students to go after what they wanted in life and to put themselves out there. He advised the students to start their job searches and to reach out to their contacts to get started off right.
With approval from the Board of Governors, Ross was presented with the degree of Honorary Doctor of Humanities by President Mirta Martin for his lifelong commitment for being an advocate for the state of West Virginia and work to support his communities and organizations.
President Martin spoke about the holiday season and commencement are some of her favorite parts of the year. She said it’s a great time to celebrate achievements and family.
“As you leave our home today to pursue great things, I have great expectations for all of you. I know that not only will you recognize the opportunities to lift up your fellow man; you will act on them. You will become the leaders you are eager to be; the leaders we know you can be; and the leaders this nation needs you to be,” she said.
“Once a Falcon, always a falcon is more than a phrase. It is an acknowledgement that you are forever a part of this, our Falcon family. We have helped you discover and develop your passion. Now it is time for you to live what you love!”
The School of Nursing Winter Commencement and Pinning Ceremony took place Thursday in the Colebank Gym. The pinning ceremony is a long-held tradition that is a symbolic welcoming of newly graduated nurses into the profession of nursing. The graduate nurse is presented with the nursing pin by the faculty of the nursing program. Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Associate of Science in Nursing graduates participated in the December 12 ceremony.
President Dr. Mirta MartinMike RossWinter CommencementCommencementGraduation
