Jonathan Kaplan, J.D.
President, Walden University
I think we can honestly say that this group of Walden University graduate students truly brought the house down!
Graduates, please stand. At this time, please join with your classmates to recognize this momentous achievement in your lives. As reflective scholars and practitioners who have received bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees, you may now grasp your tassels and move them to the left side.
There are others present here today and spread around the world celebrating your accomplishment via our live webcast who deserve recognition. Those of you who have just had your degrees conferred upon you know that you are here primarily—but not solely—as the result of their sacrifices and efforts. Others close to you have had a hand in your success, and it is now, in your moment of triumph and accomplishment, that you have the opportunity to let them know collectively and publicly what their love, support and interminable patience has meant to you. Would our graduates please stand, wherever you may be, face your loved ones, and give these terrific people a round of applause for their support?
This concludes our formal celebration of the accomplishments of this Walden University graduating class. We cordially invite the graduates, their families and friends, and all guests at this ceremony, to join the Board of Directors, faculty, and administration at a reception, sponsored by The Richard W. Riley College of Education and Leadership, in honor of our graduates. For those joining us via webcast, please stay online to watch as we scroll the names of all graduates.
I ask the audience to remain in place until the academic procession has recessed. And now, would Grand Marshal Costner please lead us in recessing this gathering of scholars until the next appointed time.