News Release

Contact: Jeri Kornegay
Director of Media and Public Relations
260-982-5285  jskornegay@manchester.edu

The Class of 2010

Sen. Lugar to Manchester grads:

You’ve got what it takes to succeed

U.S. Sen. Richard G. Lugar felt right at home May 23 as he addressed the Class of 2010 of Manchester College and received an honorary degree.

He’d spoken on the northern Indiana campus before, as a high school participant in a debate contest, and to the Class of 1970, when he was mayor of Indianapolis. But he also identified strongly with the graduates because he, too, is a product of a small, independent school – Denison University in central Ohio.

Manchester College awarded 143 bachelor of science degrees, 46 bachelor of arts degrees, two associate of arts degrees, and the honorary doctor of humane letters. It was Manchester’s 121st commencement.

“Like each of you, I had the benefit of attending a small college that expanded my horizons and facilitated lasting friendships,” he told Manchester graduates. “At their best, small colleges are devoted to the lofty goal of developing whole people who can navigate the intersections among financial futures, private lives, public duties and spiritual cores.

“Through art, business, science, the humanities, management or other talents developed here, you will be a productive individual who will be willing and able to take action in the service of moral values and human welfare.”

Lugar also had encouraging words in a difficult job market. “… we should understand that the current climate of international economic dynamism rewards education above all other commodities. It rewards those with multiple skills who dedicate themselves to a lifetime of learning.”

President Jo Young Switzer shone the light on the very full arena audience: “Our graduates here today know that their successes came about not just from their own efforts. They relied on their parents and families for financial help, encouragement, care packages, attendance at concerts, recitals and athletic competitions, and warm welcomes at home over breaks.” Loud applause erupted from the robed graduates and faculty.

Before their march out into the hot May afternoon and the arms of their loved ones, the Class of 2010 heard final words from their College president: “Deal directly with your problems. Your Manchester experience has taught you alternatives to violence – both physical and verbal. … Treat the earth kindly. … Pass on the gifts you have been given.”

Class of 2010

    ***summa cum laude  **magna cum laude  *cum laude

Watch Baccalaureate

and Commencement 2010

on the web!

Psychology major Erica Nisley with her very happy dad