Neumann Graduates Urged to Embrace Service and Compassion As They Head Out Into the World

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Image via Neumann University. Grant Wallace, Curt Yenchik and Bryan Raymond show their school spirit at Neumann University’s May 11 graduation ceremony.

The Class of 2019 cheered for classmates and celebrated with their families at Neumann University’s 53rd Commencement Exercises on May 11.

The new graduates heard inspirational messages from Fr. Michael Duffy, OFM, who received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree, and Dr. Chris Domes, university president.

Co-valedictorians Jacqueline and Victoria Schneider, speaking on behalf of their classmates, expressed gratitude for the support and joy that they experienced during the last four years.

In all, Neumann awarded degrees to 392 students. Graduates received 29 doctoral degrees, 67 master’s degrees, and 296 bachelor’s degrees.

“I believe that there is a culture of service fostered here at Neumann University, and I

greatly admire that,” said Fr. Duffy.

“My wish for you graduates is, as your life’s journey carries you beyond this campus, that you may bring with you this culture of service wherever you go and to whomever you meet,” he said. “If you do this, you can be ensured that in Gods’ eyes and in Jesus’ words, your future will be a great one.”

Honored for a lifetime of service, Fr. Duffy is in his 31st year as a member of the Franciscan Team that runs St. Francis Inn, a soup kitchen and outreach ministry to the poor, the homeless and t

he addicted in the Kensington section of Philadelphia.

He helps coordinate the group that feeds between 300 and 400 people a day, distributes clothing to those in need, holds mail for the guests, and has an extensive referral network for social services.

Quoting from the university’s mission statement, Dr. Domes reminded the graduates that “a Neumann education is built on ‘the belief that knowledge is a gift to be shared in the service of others and that learning is a lifelong process.’”

“As graduates of Neumann you are asked to be leaders that will always raise your voice on behalf of those who have no voice,” he said. “You are called to lift up those who live and exist on the margins of society.”

Jacqueline and Victoria Schneider, twins who shared valedictorian honors, told their classmates that “Neumann has established itself as an institution that allows students the opportunity to find joy in every day, and for that, we should all be extremely grateful.”

They also expressed gratitude to the faculty: “The professors are passionate and genuinely care about each and every one of their students … It is our hope that when everyone in this room gets the chance to be the person changing someone else’s life, like these professor have done for us, that you take it and do everything in your power to pay forward the amazing opportunities that you were given in your four years here.”

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