A full house of graduates, family, and friends celebrated commencement for the Class of 2018 at Indiana University South Bend. The joyful event was held at the Joyce Center at Notre Dame where more than 1,000 degrees were conferred.
IU President Michael A. McRobbie presided and IU South Bend Chancellor Terry L. Allison gave his final remarks as chancellor. He praised the class for being engaged in the issues of our time and said, “We need you to lead our democracy.” He added, “My message to our graduates today is: Speak up. Speak louder. Speak more often. Speak with evidence and conviction. Speak with a larger variety of individuals with differing opinions. Certainly listen, but then speak until you’re tired of repeating yourself, even when you think it can’t make a difference. This democracy needs your voices. Speak!”
The ceremony included a brother and sister graduating together with degrees in nursing; a husband and wife graduating together with degrees in musical theatre performance; two sets of twin sisters graduating together, and 67-year-old Susan Ward receiving her college degree 50 years to the day after graduating from high school.
The Distinguished Alumni Award was presented to Joseph Mancini (BS’78, accounting). Mancini was selected to receive the award for his contributions to the accounting profession, his commitment to community service, and as a supporter, adviser, and promoter of IU South Bend. He is a managing partner of the accounting firm Metzger, Mancini & Lackner in South Bend.
Outgoing president of the Student Government Association Shail Bhagat gave the student address. He concluded his remarks by telling fellow graduates, “We are brimming with ambition to take on whatever comes our way. You have the capacity to conquer your challenges. Be strong. This world is yours for the taking, Titans. Now go take it!”