RAINBOW
Welcome from the Chancellor Hello and welcome to this virtual Rainbow Graduation Ceremony. While we know that the virtual realm is not where you envisioned celebrating your academic accomplishments, we do want to take this special opportunity to acknowledge your hard work and efforts in reaching this point in your educational career. Congratulations! We hope that SIUE has been a place for you to not only excel in your academic achievements, but also to feel supported while at the University. In your time on campus, you have had the freedom to consider new ideas; meet new people and expand your perceptions, both locally and globally; further explore your individuality - and celebrate it; define and refine a sense of self and of what brings you happiness; and live in a place that has had a significant and positive influence on your life. Please know that we are very proud of your success and SIUE was a better place because you were here. Take a moment to reflect on all of the people and programs you encountered! In those experiences, you have left your mark on your classmates and friends; the faculty and staff within your program of study; and the University’s reputation, both now and in the future. And you can be proud that, as a member of the SIUE family, you are now an alumnae of the largest producer of bachelor’s degrees in the St. Louis metropolitan statistical area (MSA). Remember to enjoy this moment…to stop and smell the roses! Your time here at SIUE will stay with you forever, and I am confident that, as SIUE Cougars, you have even greater accomplishments in your future. Congratulations, thank you for choosing SIUE and, as soon as travel restrictions ease, come back and see us. We celebrate YOU!!!
Dr. Randy Pembrook
Brie-Anna Nichole Fultz
Psychology Minor in Studio Art To my sisters, who have shown me endless support and provided me strength in times of uncertainty. To professor Jane Barrow, for being so patient and never ceasing to encourage me. And friends and family for their acceptance and unconditional love.
Joe Simpson
Theater Performance Thank you to all the faculty and students for making a space for me to live my truth.
Miranda Buiter
A Message from Administration I know this is not how any of us imagined how the end of your time here at SIUE would end. I want to thank each of you for persevering during this unprecedented time in our nation and wish you nothing but the best as you transition into the next stage of your journey. Parents, family members, spouses, friends and guests, I can’t imagine the pride and joy (and maybe relief) that you are feeling right now…seeing these young adults who will be graduating in a few days. I want to thank each of you for entrusting your student to us and being supportive of your student throughout their academic career here. Students, make sure you show your appreciation for those who have supported you and helped you reach this important milestone in your life!
College Student Personnel Administration I want to express my gratitude to everyone who has helped shaped my experience at SIUE. I truly appreciate all of the relationships I've built here and the many individuals who I've had the opportunity to work with as a masters student and working in student affairs. Thank you to my supervisor Natalie and to my fellow pro staff and GAs of Campus Rec, my CSPA cohort V members, the professors and friends I've made in the program, and thank you to all of my friends and family who've supported every decision I've made. Thank you to all of you who helped each student participating in Rainbow Graduation!
To the students who are graduating in a few days…congratulations…while one journey ends, another begins! I want to thank you for your perseverance during your time here at SIUE. Today we celebrated a milestone in your life. Even though we will not be able to shake hands or fist bump on stage at graduation, please make sure to participate in the Virtual ceremonies which will go live on Saturday, May 9 at 1 p.m. An email with a link to view the ceremonies will be sent on May 7. I want to personally thank and recognize Dr. Earleen Patterson, Director of SOAR, Dr. Howard Rambsy, Professor of English, Kelly Jo Karnes, Director of the Morris University Center and the newest member of the team, Lindy Wagner, Director of the Center for Student Diversity and Inclusion for their leadership in coordinating this program. In closing, I’d like to leave you with these words of encouragement especially during this time of uncertainty. “Life is a series of natural and spontaneous changes. Don’t resist them – that only creates sorrow. Let reality be reality. Let things flow naturally forward in whatever way they like.” – Lao Tzu Thank you and good luck class of 2020.
Dr. Jeffrey Waple