When Indiana University South Bend recognized its Jubilee Year at commencement ceremonies before a full house at Purcell Pavilion, 1,020 degrees were conferred, including 835 bachelor's degrees and 172 master's degrees. Indiana University President Michael A. McRobbie presided and IU South Bend Chancellor Terry L. Allison presented the Class of 2017.
“IU South Bend used to be just one building. Now it is a beautiful hub of academics, technology, research, student life, and athletics with a quad, a bridge, a library, a performance hall, and even an observatory,” said Allison. “We are a campus right near the bend in the St. Joseph River that gives the city its name. We have housing, an art studio, and land along the banks of the river to increase our presence along Lincolnway. We also span from the Elkhart Center in downtown Elkhart to the Natatorium on the west side of South Bend. Most importantly, we have educated thousands of graduates, including those of you here tonight, who are making a difference in their lives, the lives of their families, and in the communities where they live and work.”
Members of the first three classes (’67, ’68, ’69) were recognized and alumni from all the previous classes were asked to stand.
Former South Bend Mayor, Lt. Governor, and Governor Joe Kernan received an honorary degree of Doctor of Humane Letters. Emil “Lucky” Reznik was presented with the Distinguished Alumni Award.
Two nuns, twin brothers, a pair of sisters, and a husband and wife team also graduated together. Sister Lucia Richardson and Sister Mary Grace Richey from the sisters of St. Francis of Perpetual Adoration both received a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education.
Twins Nicholas and James Lengerich both received bachelor’s degrees in Business from the Judd Leighton School of Business and Economics.
Two sisters graduated together. Kaylee Shepherd received a bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education and Morgan Shepherd received a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education.
Christopher and Shelby Aemmer are married. Christopher received a bachelor’s degree in German and Shelby got a bachelor’s degree in Social Work.
Congratulations to the Class of 2017!