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Suki Deen, University Relations Associate
31 Reads Way
New Castle, DE 19720
(302) 295-1164
FAX (302) 295-1137
suki.r.deen@wilmu.edu
Wilmington University Celebrates First Graduation as a University
January 28, 2008—Wilmington, DE. Hundreds of proud friends and family members gathered to honor Wilmington University graduates at the 37th Annual Commencement Ceremonies held yesterday, January 27, 2008. This was the first graduating class to receive diplomas that read 'Wilmington University' since the recent change in designation. The winter commencement was held at the Chase Center on Wilmington's Riverfront and was the site of both the graduate and the undergraduate ceremonies.
Approximately 1,228 students walked across the stage to receive their diplomas. Of those students, 405 of them had relatives who are attending or who have graduated from Wilmington University. Michelline Stokes and her husband Corey Stokes were among several couples that graduated together during the ceremony. And as a testament to Wilmington University's mission, to provide a quality education to the traditional and the non-traditional student, graduates at yesterday's ceremony ranged from the age of 20 to the age of 75.
Among the proud parents stood Wilmington University President, Dr. Jack P. Varsalona. His daughter Jamie Varsalona graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Media Design.
"I am extremely proud of each and every one of our graduates and wish them well in their future career paths." Said Dr. Varsalona after the ceremony. He went on to say, "This is a very momentous occasion, this winter's graduation marks the first time our students graduated from the institution after reaching university status."
Wilmington College became Wilmington University in the fall on 2007 after a 2-year study initiated by Dr. Jack P. Varsalona. For years the College had been operating as a university, offering undergraduate and graduate degrees to over 11,500 students at 7 locations. Recently the University began offering degree completion programs at two Southern New Jersey locations: Burlington County College and Cumberland County College. The University also offers courses at Salem Community College in Southern New Jersey.
As the new graduates walked out into the world holding their caps, gowns and Wilmington University diploma, the University faculty and staff look forward to hearing of all the graduates' accomplishments.