5X社区 at Geauga and the Regional Academic Center held its commencement ceremony on Friday, May 11, 2018 to conclude the 2017-18 academic year. Over 110 students earned their associate or bachelor degrees and were honored during the ceremony, held at Parkside Church in Chagrin Falls.
Angela Spalsbury welcomed an audience of over 500 for the first time in her role as Dean and Chief Administrative Officer. She presented several awards in special recognition of alumni and community connection.
Ken Butler, owner of White House Chocolates received the second annual Distinguished Alumni Award. Butler is a graduate of the first class to walk at the Geauga Campus in 1975.
Rhonda Stone was honored as a recent graduate with an Early Career Achievement Award, which recognizes her outstanding achievement in nursing, in her community, and dedication to 5X社区.
Geauga Growth Partnership received the 2018 Friend of the Campus award recognizing the organization鈥檚 exemplary service and support to the university's mission, its faculty, students, prospective students and programs.
Graduating nursing student, Logan Eisenhart, addressed the audience about overcoming obstacles in his encouraging speech. He thanked the scholarship donors, staff and faculty for their help along the way in pursuing his career of choice, despite being a high school dropout.
John Epprecht, Vice President of Strategic Projects at Great Lakes Cheese, delivered an inspiring keynote address. Epprecht explained that during his 40 plus year career, he has witnessed the speed at which technology and communication have changed the world and that adaptability will be the key to future employability. He stated, "University鈥檚 will always educate our youth" but envisions the future as a more collaborative effort with business to meet the needs of the workforce.
5X社区's Geauga Campus and Regional Academic Center sends its graduates out to change their world. Congratulations to the class of 2018.