Glendale Campus Hosts Graduation Ceremony

On Friday, June 6, MWU's Glendale Campus hosted its Commencement Ceremony at the Maricopa County Events Center for the Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine, College of Pharmacy-Glendale, and College of Health Sciences. Nearly 400 students became alumni during the morning event, with more than 6,000 family and friends in attendance.

The graduation marked both firsts and lasts for the University. This year saw the first graduating class of the Arizona Podiatric Medicine Program, who welcomed its inaugural 14 alumni. This class has made their mark on the profession, by passing parts 1 and 2 of their board exams at 100%. AZCOM, meanwhile, graduated its 1,000th student in the Class of 2008. As Arizona's largest medical school, AZCOM has surpassed this impressive milestone in bringing needed physicians to the state. This year will also be the last time that MWU holds its graduation off-campus. Starting in 2009, MWU will hold college graduations at the new 2,500-seat auditorium building on our Glendale Campus.

In her welcoming remarks, MWU President Dr. G introduced each college by giving a review of their accomplishments over their time at MWU, including the number of service projects conducted, the academic highlights, and even the number of marriages and babies born (I believe AZCOM was tops with over 20 babies born to the Class of 2008). She then gave special recognition to all the family members who attended to support their graduating loved one. As the famiy members stood, the graduates gave them a standing ovation, as the day was also a great accomplishment for those who provided the inspiration, moral support, and financial support for the students to fulfill their draems. Dr. G then asked the 15 students who were commissioned as military officers to stand, along with all the members of the audience who have served in the military, to thank them for their service to our country. It was a moving moment to see our new alumni standing proudly and celebrating their military service.

Then, one-by-one, every single graduate walked to the stage to be hooded by the faculty. Per MWU policy, approximately 40 students were hooded by family members who have doctoral degrees in the health sciences, including 9 MWU alumni who came back to hood their siblings. The graduates then received a handshake and scroll from their dean and were personally congratulated by the University president. Truly, each student had their proud moment on stage, and the families responded with loud applause. For those of us seated on the stage, we are always treated to a great shoe fashion show. This year's winners ranged from tennis shoes and flip-flops to red slippers and some high heels that would be the envy of Carrie Bradshaw.

In her closing remarks to the graduates, Dr. G reminded the new physicians, pharmacists, podiatrists, nurse anesthesists, perfusionists, physician assistants, occupational therapists, and biomedical scientists, that even caregivers must allow themselves to be cared by others. While their careers will be focused on treating their patients, they must also take care of themselves and trust in their families and loved ones for needed support. Dr. G also stressed that they will always be members of MWU's family, and are always welcome back at their academic home.

As always, the Commencement was a time of celebration of a life-changing accomplishment. So, my sincere congratulations to the 400 new MWU alumni from the Glendale Campus. I look forward to seeing you at alumni events and professional conferences throughout your long and successful careers. Best wishes and please stay in touch!