Fitchburg State University recently held the winter ceremony of its 128th commencement exercises, conferring hundreds of graduate and undergraduate degrees. (Download the list of graduates here.)
It was the first ceremony for Dr. Donna Hodge, who joined the Fitchburg State campus this summer as its 12th president.
“Today, I am filled with profound pride and gratitude,” she told graduates and guests at the ceremony, which was held in the university’s Athletics and Recreation Center. “This marks my inaugural semester as president of this esteemed institution, and it is an honor to witness this pivotal milestone in your academic journeys. I am particularly humbled to serve as the first woman president in Fitchburg State’s 130-year history. You are my first graduating class, among some of the first students I met upon my arrival this summer, and officially tonight, you have all become part of my own story. Our historic moment underscores the progress we have achieved as a university committed to equity, inclusion, and the pursuit of excellence.”
She cited individual students who had made an impact on her as a newcomer to campus, as well as the collective narrative of challenges surmounted, ambitions realized, and aspirations pursued.
“Many among you have balanced the rigors of academic study with professional commitments, internships, familial responsibilities, and community engagement,” Hodge said. “For some, this achievement represents a groundbreaking first within your families, forging a legacy for future generations. Your resilience and intellectual curiosity have been exemplary, and today we recognize not only your accomplishments but also the fortitude that has propelled you to this moment.”
She urged the graduates to acknowledge those who had supported them along their journeys, and to embody the principles of intellectual curiosity, moral courage, and compassionate leadership in their future pursuits.
“The world awaits your intellectual contributions, your creativity, and your principled leadership,” Hodge said. “More importantly, the world requires your dedication to the pursuit of truth, your commitment to fostering equity, and your resolve to effectuate positive change. Never ever underestimate your capacity to influence and transform the world.”
View the ceremony courtesy of FATV.