SRU Global Graduation set for May 9
May 2, 2017
SLIPPERY ROCK, Pa. - Slippery Rock University's Office of Global Engagement will host a Global Graduation Ceremony at 6 p.m., May 9 in the Smith Student Center Ballroom.
The Global Graduation Ceremony recognizes graduates who are international students, international exchange students and American students who studied abroad in long-term, credit-bearing programs. As part of the program, graduates are presented with stoles, sashes and pins that they can wear at the University's May 11-12 commencement ceremonies.
"We're very excited because event participants have more than doubled since last year," said Theresa Thrower, assistant director of global exchanges and partnerships. "The numbers are a reflection of the increase in international and exchange students and it's a great opportunity to showcase their experiences and achievements."
International students are 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 and exchange students are presented a pin.
"The excitement of this event has continued to grow in the last two years. It is no longer us approaching the students for participation, the students approach us about getting involved," said Noora Alie, assistant director of international student services and the ceremony's organizer. "Even faculty and staff have begun to ask us in advance for information about this event so they can be sure they attend. It is such a unique cultural experience for everyone involved."
A group of 62 students (14 international, 13 exchange and 35 study abroad), representing 22 countries, including: Ethiopia, Sri Lanka, Russia, Spain, South Korea, Netherlands, Germany, Denmark, Japan, Australia, Hungary, Vietnam, India and Sweden, will be recognized at the event.
Overall, SRU has more than 100 international students from more than 33 countries.
SRU Interim President, Philip Way, and Melissa Teodoro, associate professor of dance, will provide remarks.
The ceremony, open to the public, will be followed by a reception.
MEDIA CONTACT: Hebist Asfaw | 724.738.2091 | hba1001@sru.edu