Clarion University of Pennsylvania presented degrees to more than 1,000 students during spring commencement ceremonies May 12 at Venango Campus and May 13 at Clarion Campus. Included among the degree recipients were the first nine graduates of the Doctor of Nursing Practice program. Additionally, 205 students received master’s degrees, 670 received bachelor’s
Included among the degree recipients were the first nine graduates of the Doctor of Nursing Practice program. Additionally, 205 students received master’s degrees, 670 received bachelor’s degrees, and 175 received associate degrees.
Courtney McLaren of Corry, who maintained a 4.0 GPA and received an Associate of Science in Nursing, graduating summa cum laude, was the student speaker at Venango Campus. State Rep. R. Lee James ('74, '83) of Oil City and a member of Clarion's Council of Trustees since 1997, addressed the graduates.
Torron Mollett of Pittsburgh, who earned Bachelor of Science degrees in political science and criminal justice, was the student speaker at the 10 a.m. ceremony, followed by Robert J. "Bo" Garritano ('66), an outstanding defensive lineman for the Golden Eagles from 1962 to 1965 and continuing supporter of Clarion football.
Kaley A. Pittsley of Mt. Pleasant, Mich., who earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a dual major in marketing and management and in management while maintaining a 4.0 GPA, represented students at the 2 p.m. ceremony. She was followed by Frank A. Pici ('77), a member of Clarion University Foundation, Inc., Board of Directors and executive-in-residence for Clarion's College of Business Administration and Information Sciences.
The university presented posthumously a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration to Katrina Renee Seaburn, a senior accounting major who passed away March 1. A four-year member of Clarion Majorettes, she excelled academically and was within 12 credits of graduating.
President Karen Whitney presented the President's Medallion Award to Dr. Syed Ali-Zaidi of Shippenville, a member of Clarion's Council of Trustees since 1980. Ali-Zaidi is a founding member of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education Board of Governors.