All over the IWU Marion campus there are Hooding Ceremonies, Dedication and Consecration Services, and Nursing Pinnings. It is exciting to participate in these special recognition events.
A small band of Alumni volunteers have the incredible opportunity to hand out the Alumni Pin and hear the alumni stories that demonstrate the Mission of IWU. During this special time the Alumni Association gathers unique stories of life-change, challenges, triumphs, and the impact from faculty, staff, and their Education Programs.
It is a wonderfully exciting time to spend with our newest graduates. This past weekend, our team met with hundreds of graduates with very uniques stories. One alum was near homelessness and graduated with an Associate Degree. Others with their Bachelors degrees spoke of the positive examples and influence from faculty in the classroom. They spoke of the challenges they faced balancing family commitments, work, life circumstances.
I met a few internationals that finished degrees that will enable them to accomplish more in their circle of influence.
One alum stated;
I hope to use my degree as I become a citizen of the United States so that I can make a difference in my place of work and community.
