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May 5, 2009
For Immediate Release
For an Interview:
Erin Spurgeon
(801) 863-6807
(801) 750-5806
A packed house was on hand at the McKay Center today to honor Utah Valley University’s newest graduates during the 68th Commencement, UVU’s first as a university. The capacity crowd was reflective of a large graduating class, projected to be the institution’s largest ever at 3,743 students, and interest in hearing Thomas S. Monson, president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, address UVU’s first graduates under the university banner.
"You will continue learning after you leave today, for to cease learning is to cease existing," said Monson, the featured speaker at the ceremony. "Great men and women have not been merely dreamers - they have returned from their visions to the practicalities of replacing the airy stones of their dreams with solid masonry wrought by their hands. Vision without work is daydreaming. Work without vision is drudgery. Vision coupled with work will ensure your success."
Monson was accompanied by his wife, Frances, as well as the other members of the First Presidency of the LDS Church: Henry B. Eyring, first counselor, and Dieter F. Uchtdorf, second counselor. The Monsons and long-time UVU supporter Phyllis Christensen were presented with honorary doctorate degrees during Commencement. Among the many other prominent guests was Matthew Holland, UVU’s president-select, who will take his post on June 1.
Interim President Elizabeth J. Hitch, in her remarks, marveled at UVU’s growth, momentum and accomplished students. Specifically, she noted the achievements of three graduates: Josie Bell, a bachelor’s degree awardee and master artist from Brazil; Irvin Hale, a probation and parole supervisor who graduated after more than a dozen years at UVU; and Lacie Sorensen, an aviation science student and valedictorian with an unblemished grade point average.
"These students are examples of the many talented and dedicated students in this graduating class," Hitch said. "Every one of you graduating today has left your mark on UVU and we are proud to have had you in our learning community. We hope that you have become attached to UVU, too, and that you will remain engaged with your alma mater."
Official numbers relative to the 2009 graduating class are expected to be released next month.
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Written by:
Brad Plothow
(801) 863-7149