Story by Emeraude Victorin
Washington Adventist University (WAU) hosted its 101st commencement ceremony May 1 at The Show Place Arena in Upper Marlboro, Md. The class of 2016 totals 246 graduates comprised of the following degrees: 83 master's degrees, 154 bachelor's degrees and nine associate's degrees.
Sarah Bloom Raskin, Deputy Secretary of the U.S. Department of the Treasury gave the commencement address. Raskin focused on the macroeconomic impact of student loans and cyber security, as well as drivers that bolster and sustain U.S. and global economic growth and recovery. In her speech, she recognized the financial hardships faced by many of the graduates and mentioned the initiatives taken by President Barack Obama to help alleviate this burden. She reminded them to be proud of their accomplishment, because for many, they may be the first in their family to obtain a college degree.
This year's Adrian T. Westney Award was a presented to Erwin Mac, a longtime supporter of education and WAU.
The award is a reminder of what Westney stood for - unparalleled dedication, unmatched performance, and inspirational service that goes "above and beyond." Each recipient of this award has demonstrated the same.
The senior class, led by the class treasurer Michele Etienne, delivered the class appreciation and presented the university with a Senior Scholarship of $15,000. This scholarship will assist senior students in need of financial assistance.