Mothers across the Shippensburg University campus, on Saturday May 9, received the gift of seeing their children graduate, just the day before Mother’s Day.

As the undergraduates walked out onto the field, people bustled around, trying to find seats in Seth Grove Stadium for what would become standing room only.

The theme of the day surrounded the accomplishments of the graduates. The chancellor of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education, Frank Brogan, led the ceremony. When it was time to give his speech, Brogan repeated that congratulations was due to all the graduates sitting there, as well as a big thank you to the students for being role models.

Brogan also touched on the fact that the graduates had a wide world ahead of them. With hard work and determination, the graduates would be able to follow their dreams and become anything they want, Brogan said.

Brogan gave recognition to the parents, grandparents, siblings and anyone who helped the graduates sitting in the chairs at the center of the field.

Abigail Brumback, the president of the class of 2015, also had a few words to say. She talked about the different memories that those of the graduating class had, from stepping on campus for the first time as a freshman and moving into the dorms to drinking at the local bar for their 21st birthday.

Some of these memories made many in the crowd laugh and relive their own college experiences.

Brumback also explained that along with the class of 2013 and 2014, the classes raised enough money to donate a clock, outside Stewart Hall.

Before the diplomas were presented, awards were presented to outstanding alumni, like Alexis Brubaker from the class of 2002, Nancy Cubano from the class of 1997, Marie Habib from the class of 2003 and Karen Page Winterich from the class of 2003. Brogan gave the awards for all they have accomplished since their graduation from SU.

After all this, it was time for the main event — watching the students receive their diplomas. For some students, their families could not sit still or keep quiet. Some shouted, while others had horns and other devices to let their child know they were there.

Some graduates shook their heads, while others proudly held up their diplomas. Other graduates could not hide their smiles as they looked toward their families.

Many graduates also decorated the caps adorning their heads with sayings ranging from “My future is unlimited 2015” to “I served my time.” The caps could be best seen when they were tossed up in the air.

As everyone filed out, students hugged family members and said goodbye to friends as they left the stadium, getting ready to start the next step in their lives.

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