PSU-Schuylkill graduates class that navigated the turbulent seas of the COVID-19 pandemic
SCHUYLKILL HAVEN — Urging graduates to pause momentarily and mark “this terrific moment in your life’s journey,” Chancellor Patrick M. Jones opened the 79th commencement Saturday at Penn State Schuylkill.
Associate, baccalaureate and master’s degrees were conferred upon 117 students by Jones and David Davis, a member of the PSU board of trustees.
Jones took the opportunity to note that Schuylkill campus was founded 90 years ago.
In 1934, a group of community leaders petitioned Penn State University to open a two-year branch campus in Pottsville.
“If not for that group of people,” Jones said, “this campus would not exist.”
In welcoming remarks, Richard J. Wiest told the graduates they can be proud of their achievements and excited for what lies ahead.
“Your Penn State degree opens many doors of opportunity that will allow you to flourish,” said Wiest, a Pine Grove attorney who chairs the PSU-Schuylkill advisory board. “May your successes be plenty, and your endeavors be fulfilling and bountiful.”
Brig. Gen. Laura A. McHugh, Deputy Adjutant General of the Pennsylvania Army National Guard, gave the keynote address.
Pointing to her own experience in which she has risen to the highest echelon of the National Guard in a 38-year career, McHugh told the graduates that the possibilities that lay ahead of them are endless.
Drawing from her own experience as commander of the 131st Transportation Company during Operation Iraqi Freedom, McHugh stressed the importance of developing leadership skills.
“Always do the right thing, even when no one’s watching, take the jobs that nobody else wants and balance your professional and personal life,” she advised. “You have one life to live, make it count.”
A graduate of Pottsville High School, McHugh graduated from the Army War College and holds masters degrees in leadership and business ethics from Duquesne University. She lives in Pine Grove.
Abby Nichole Morneau, who earned a B.S. in Criminal Justice, gave the student address.
The Class of 2024, she said, had an academic journey like none other.
The COVID-19 pandemic taught the class invaluable lessons, including the ability to learn, adapt and grow in the face of adversity, Morneau said.
“We have navigated the tumultuous seas of the COVID-19 pandemic,” she said. “But here we are stronger, more resilient and ready to embark on the next chapter of our lives.”
To roaring applause from a packed house in the campus gymnasium, the graduates moved the tassels on their mortar boards from right to left, confirming their graduate status.
Michael Maccarone delivered the PSU-Schuylkill alumni message.
Dignitaries attending the graduation included the Schuylkill County delegation to the state House of Representatives — Tim Twardzik, R-123; Jamie Barton, R-124; and JoAnne Stehr, R-107. Robert S. Carl Jr., Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce president and CEO, and Judge Charles Miller also attended.
Dr. Harold Aurand, professor of history, served as faculty marshal.
Dr. Cory Scherer, interim director of academic affairs, introduced students recognized for academic distinction and service in the military.
