Widener University Commencements celebrated the achievements of 1,186 Chester-campus graduates in five joyful ceremonies held on Memorial Field this week.  

On-campus commencement exercises began Tuesday, May 14, 3 PM with School of Engineering graduates and concluded Thursday, May 16, at 3 PM with the College of Health and Human Services receiving diplomas.

Graduates from the School of Business, School of Nursing, School of Engineering, College of Arts & Sciences, College of Health & Human Services, and Center for Graduate & Continuing Studies individually crossed the stage and were congratulated by President Stacey Robertson as they received a symbolic representation of their degrees.

  A separate ceremony was held May 16, 7 PM, to celebrate graduates of Widener’s Commonwealth Law School in Harrisburg. Widener University Delaware Law School held its commencement the afternoon of May 17 on the campus in Wilmington, Delaware.

Robertson spoke at each of the Chester ceremonies, sharing personal reflections on what it means to flourish in life.

She pointed to the importance of developing meaningful relationships, highlighting two of her dearest friends and the effort they all put into staying close regardless of the miles between them.

She also advised graduates to keep learning – because curiosity is priceless – and to “do scary stuff.”

Robertson asked how many of the graduates had created boundaries for themselves out of fear of failure or shame about a presumed weakness.

“We need to let go of those fears. More often than not, they are untrue,” she said. “And even when we do reveal weakness or fail or feel embarrassed, these are opportunities to grow our resilience and learn how to rise strong.”

She also explained that, as alumni, they are lifetime members of the Pride.

“I am absolutely confident that each of you will use your degree to find career success, enrich the communities around you, and play a part – big or small – in making the world a better place,” Robertson said. “Your Widener alumni network is 60,000 strong, and will always be here to support you, cheer you on, and welcome you home.”

Graduates hailed from 14 countries, including Ghana, India, Greece, South Africa, and Turks & Caicos, and 37 states, including Arizona, Hawaii, Oregon, and Utah.

The university gave out associate, bachelor, master, and doctoral degrees. The youngest graduate was 20 and the oldest was 67.

Widener University is a private institution known for its commitment to the personal and professional success of every student, where academic experiences are distinguished by excellence and students develop the leadership qualities employers seek.

Core values of respect, integrity and excellence are reflected in an outstanding student experience provided through an agile, innovative and inclusive approach to learning. Industry-shaping faculty provide close, personal mentorship and share powerful connections that help students build professional networks.

Recognized as one of the Philadelphia region’s leading universities, Widener offers programs and experiences that empower our community of learners to discover and create better futures as scholars, leaders and globally engaged citizens.