Fall Commencement 2011

MANSFIELD, PA— Three hundred and twenty-two students received degrees at Mansfield University’s 147th Commencement on Saturday, December17 in Decker Gymnasium.
Before presenting the graduates with their diplomas, President Maravene Loeschke told them “As you go forward in your journey, and I go forward on mine, may we all go forward in service.”
Commencement was Loeschke’s last official act as MU president. On January 1 she assumes the president of Towson University in Maryland, her alma mater.
Pennsylvania State Representative Matt Baker was on hand to present Loeschke with a resolution and citation from the House of Representatives recognizing her service to the University, the Mansfield community and the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE).
Dr. Renee Haynesworth, a 1994 MU graduate, was the speaker. She is a pediatrician in the Fairfax, VA area.
“I would implore you to appreciate the gift that you’ve been able to receive in the Mansfield University education,” she said. “I have often reflected on my time at Mansfield and greatly appreciated the countless experiences that enabled me to grow. My four years here fostered my confidence and sense of self.”
In addition to operating her own private practice, Haynesworth also serves her community by practicing at Child Health Associates in Warrenton, VA, where she is starting the first “Reach Out and Read” program in Fauquier County to improve literacy of at-risk pre-school children. She also provides care for families in Spanish, which she learned during her residency.
“One of the best ways that you can positively impact your world is to make a point to give back,” she told the graduates. “Your service as a volunteer in your field can help the future generations. Whatever you end up doing, or wherever you live, please take a few hours of your time on a regular basis to positively impact your world through service.”
Lynn Pifer, English professor and director of the Frederick Douglass Institute at MU, was presented with the Diversity Ally Award. The award is presented to an individual who demonstrates an exceptional commitment to diversity and cultural awareness and who celebrates individuality and uniqueness.
Also during Commencement, Vice-Chair Lewis Lee ’62 spoke on behalf of the Council of Trustees, Diana Rizzo Petlock ’04, Alumni Association Board member, gave the alumni greeting and President Adam Simmonds, a graduating senior himself, represented the Student Government Association. The MU Brass Band, conducted by Nathan Rinnert, provided musical accompaniment for the event.