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WEST
WINDSOR, N.J. -- New Jersey Governor Jon Corzine encouraged Mercer
County Community College's 998 graduates to achieve their dreams
as he spoke at Commencement Ceremonies May 21.
Citing
that education is at the heart of all that we achieve, he said "Whatever
your dreams are, it's possible. It's a step closer today and it
represents the fact that you worked hard to achieve your objectives."
He named several successful MCCC graduates and encouraged graduates
to set their goals high, not only for themselves but for their children
and their children's children.
Speaking
on behalf of the student population, Information Technology major
Rodney Hargis elicited cheers with his uplifting message and rousing
delivery. Hargis is a returning student who overcame many hardships
to achieve President's List status and a national technology award.
He works as an analyst for MCCC's Virtual College. "Each of
us, in our own way, is the embodiment of the 'never say die' spirit
from which greatness is born. So I challenge each of you to search
your heart, find your dreams, chase them down, and don't give up
NO MATTER WHAT."
During
the ceremony MCCC Professor Dori Seider was presented with the college's
annual Distinguished Teaching Award. She was selected by her colleagues
and students for her excellence in teaching, compassion, wisdom
and optimism. Dr. Seider has taught a range of subjects at Mercer
for 37 years, including psychology, French and education. She earned
her doctorate from the University of Vermont and is the author of
two books.
During a special presentation Board Chair, Rev. William Coleman
Jr. read a proclamation of appreciation to MCCC Vice President Beverly
Richardson, who is retiring this May. Since 1986 Dr. Richardson
has served as dean, then provost, of the college's James Kerney
Campus in downtown Trenton. Since 2005 she has been the college's
vice president for college advancement. In her honor, the James
Kerney Learning Center will be renamed the Dr. Beverly Richardson
Learning Center.
County
Executive Brian Hughes welcomed the graduates and their families.
He was joined on the podium by county officials, freeholders, local
mayors, members of the MCCC Board of Trustees and Foundation Board.
The Mercer County Symphonic Band played the graduation march.
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