Commencement 2023

Congratulations to the Class of 2023!

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Commencement 2023

Waynesburg University honored the Class of 2023 during Commencement Exercises on Saturday, May 6, and Sunday, May 7, on the Lawn of Miller Hall, honoring nearly 400 undergraduate, graduate and doctoral students.

Tom Foley, president of the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities in Pennsylvania (AICUP), and Mindy Zatta, private wealth advisor with IronBridge Wealth Council, addressed the Class of 2023 as the Commencement speakers. The Reverend Austin Crenshaw Shelley, senior pastor and head of staff at Shadyside Presbyterian Church in Pittsburgh, served as the Baccalaureate speaker.

Commencement Speakers

"You are growing good citizens here, which some may argue is the first purpose of education in a democratic society."

Tom Foley, President of the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities in Pennsylvania (AICUP)

"Just how are we supposed to evoke positive change and empower others and our communities if we allow fear to hold us back?"

Mindy Zatta, Private Wealth Advisor with IronBridge Wealth Council

"Pay attention, on this rather exceptional day, to what you might otherwise deem ordinary."

The Reverend Austin Crenshaw Shelley, Senior Pastor and Head of Staff at Shadyside Presbyterian Church in Pittsburgh

2023 Valedictorians

The following graduates were named valedictorians:

Hallman delivered the valedictory to the Class of 2023.

At the Graduate and Professional Studies ceremony, Alyson Johnson addressed fellow graduates.

Gabriela Hallman delivering the Valedictorian speech

Douglas G. and Kathryn D. Lee Servant Leadership Award

Becky Shank, a psychology graduate from East Berlin, Pennsylvania, was awarded the 2023 Douglas G. and Kathryn D. Lee Servant Leadership Award. This award was established by the Waynesburg University Board of Trustees to honor the leadership and commitment of Douglas and Kathryn Lee to the University. It is awarded each year to one graduating student who has demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities over the course of their time at Waynesburg University in the mission focus areas of faith, learning and serving.

More about the award