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Smithsonian HR Director James Douglas, ’71, delivers keynote speech

President Virginia S. Horvath shook the hands of nearly 1,400 students in Steele Hall Arena today as they walked, one by one, across the stage to receive their diplomas and earn their President’s congratulations.

Fredonia’s 188^th annual Commencement ceremony included bachelor’s and master’s degree recipients, as well as those earning advanced certificates, honored during two nearly identical ceremonies, at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. on campus.

President Horvath presided over the ceremonies, joined by a more than 20-person platform party which included her fellow members of the University Cabinet, members of the College Council, Senior Class President Anthony Mercedes, and other campus and community dignitaries and student leaders.

“Faculty and staff here have worked to help you find your voice and your passion, and to develop your independence in thinking and responsible action,” Dr. Horvath told the graduates. “From this point, it’s up to you to show what Fredonians can do. Your employers, your communities, your families, will see that you are skilled, creative, connected, and responsible. We’re counting on you to use all you have learned, to continue to learn as new questions and technologies arise, and to represent your alma mater proudly in all you do.”Senior Class President Anthony Mercedes, a Bronx, N.Y., native who earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Communication-Public Relations with a minor in Leadership Studies, remarked about the many things he and his classmates had learned during the past four years and how they had been treated respectfully.

Senior Class President Anthony Mercedes, who earned a Bachelor of Science in Communication-Public Relations with a minor in Leadership Studies, addresses his proud classmates.

“This university viewed us as intellectual adults that bring personal but important insights into discussions,” Mr. Mercedes attested. “Fredonia has never silenced me — and even when I felt I couldn’t speak, my professors and fellow classmates stood by me and spoke with me.”

Fredonia then welcomed its keynote speaker, alumnus James D. Douglas, ’71, who has served as the director of Human Resources for the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C. since 2004. The Smithsonian is the world’s largest museum and research complex, with 19 museums and galleries, the National Zoological Park, and nine research facilities. Mr. Douglas, a native of Dunkirk, offered the graduates encouraging lessons learned during a 30-year career of service to the Smithsonian.

“Mr. Douglas, devoting nearly his entire career in stewardship of one of the world’s greatest treasures, sets an example for fellow Fredonia graduates of the importance of public service,” President Horvath said.

Douglas drew inspiration for his remarks from Fredonia’s official seal, which includes the State University of New York motto, “To Learn. To Search. To Serve.”

“These three concepts convey what I believe are the values that you, the graduates, and really all of us here, should strive for each and every day,” he suggested.  “They guide us on our life’s journey.”

Douglas encouraged the graduates to understand that they will never stop learning throughout their careers and lives.

“You will have much competition in the coming years.  It is projected that in 2015 there will be almost 1.9 million graduates receiving bachelor’s degrees in the United States,” he warned. “Rest assured that Fredonia has provided a firm base for you and has provided you with the tools to succeed. But remember that continuous learning, whether through formal or informal means, and appreciating others, will be your keys to success.”

Addressing the concept of searching, Douglas guided the audience to always be on the lookout for new opportunities.

Official Mace Bearer Marwan Elnasser of the School of Business leads Keynote Speaker James Douglas, '71 (left), President Virginia Horvath (right, with medallion) and the full Commencement processional through campus en route to Steele Hall Arena.

“As you move forward in your careers, periodically think about doing what I call an ‘out-of-body’ experience,” he offered. “Imagine mentally taking yourself out of your job or your present situation and think about the opportunities that you may not have considered previously.”

Finally, he emphasized the importance of giving back to one’s community and profession, especially in the form of mentorship.

"As your search provides new opportunities to personally and professionally grow and develop, pay it forward,” Douglas said. “There is no greater satisfaction than helping others achieve their goals. I encourage you to seek and find a mentor, as they will help guide you.”

Student performances were given by the Fredonia Concert Band, under the direction of Raymond Stewart, in the morning, and the Fredonia Wind Ensemble, under the direction of Dr. Paula Holcomb, in the afternoon. The national anthem was performed at both ceremonies by Vaughn Faison, of Lyons, N.Y., who earned a Bachelor of Arts in Applied Music-Voice, summa cum laude. Dr. Vernon Huff directed the Fredonia Women’s Choir in the musical interlude, “Today,” with music by Dr. Rob Deemer. John J. Chatterton, who graduated with a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Composition with a second major in Music Performance, summa cum laude, was the cello soloist on the piece.

The Mace Bearer who led the procession in both ceremonies was Dr. Marwan Elnasser of the Department of Economics in the School of Business, representing the campus faculty with the most years of service.