August 14, 2023
Colleagues,
It is with immense joy and gratitude that I write to you today to acknowledge the success of our summer commencement ceremony.
From my perspective as a first-time participant, the ceremony was a wonderful celebration of our graduates’ successes. It reinforced the commitment that this university has for making certain that every person and every interaction matters.
At the heart of the event’s success is the behind-the-scenes work of staff members in our Office of the University Registrar, who make certain that every graduate receives their signed diploma on stage. That unique commitment preserves the day as a memory long treasured by our graduates and their families.
Volunteers from all corners of our campus also play a vital role in the event.
I am incredibly appreciative of the ongoing leadership of Robert and Vanessa Gorman. This dynamic faculty duo volunteers on the University Commencement and Recognition Committee, overseeing the pomp and circumstance channeled by our commencement marshals.
The flawless celebration is a credit to Annette Wetzel’s planning expertise and her deep knowledge of our university’s traditions. I also thank staff and faculty campuswide who guarantee that students meet degree requirements; Craig Chandler for his excellent photography; members of the Faculty Brass ensemble; volunteers from my staff; our commencement marshals; HuskerVision; the Nebraska Alumni Association; Pinnacle Bank Arena; the University of Nebraska–Lincoln Police Department; and each member of our campus community who volunteered or supported the event.
The ceremony was another example of the big things we can accomplish when we combine our strengths and work toward a common goal.
Commencement will forever be one of the most important days on our campus. I hope that each of you will consider serving as a volunteer to support this celebration in the future. You can express interest in joining this special Husker team here.
Thank you all for your commitment to the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and our students.
Go Big Red!
Rodney D. Bennett
Chancellor