SRU Office of Global Engagement to host Global Graduation Ceremony
May 1, 2019
SLIPPERY ROCK, Pa. — Slippery Rock University's Office of Global Engagement will host its biannual Global Graduation Ceremony, 6-8 p.m., May 7, in the Smith Student Center Ballroom.
The event recognizes graduating international students, international exchange students and American students who have studied abroad in credit-bearing, long-term programs.
"This event allows us to the celebrate our international, exchange and study abroad students and congratulate all of them on the completion of a very unique educational experience," said Noora Alie, SRU assistant director of international student services.
The ceremony will involve 53 students including: 16 international students; 21 study abroad students: and 16 exchange students. Graduates represent 24 countries, including: the United Kingdom, Canada, South Korea, China, Japan, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, Kenya, Italy, Puerto Rico, British Virgin Islands, Brazil, Slovakia, Hungary, Latvia, Australia, Belgium, Ireland, Scotland, France, Spain, Japan and Ecuador.
International students will be presented with stoles representing the flag of their native country. Study abroad students receive a hybrid stole featuring the U.S. flag and the flag of the nation where they studied. Exchange students are presented a pin.
"With their sashes and pins, our international students are able to represent their home country with something that showcases their big accomplishment for graduating from a U.S. institution and their uniqueness that can sometimes be lost as they blend in with the crowd," said Alie. "Also, since many of the students' parents are unable to make the trip over for graduation, representing their home country provides a point of pride."
SRU President Bill Behre; Sam Heikinen, associate provost for global engagement; and John Rindy, director of career education and development, will provide remarks.
SRU has more than 90 international students from more than 30 countries.
The event is free and open to the public and will be followed by a reception.
MEDIA CONTACT: Lesa Bressanelli | 724.738.2091 | lnb1009@sru.edu