Beloit Celebrates Commencement

Photos by Bob Rashid
Text by N. Marie Dries'92

The class of 2004 was in fine form as it received its marching orders. Decked out in Beloit blue—a notable departure from the black caps and gowns of years past—graduates accessorized with flower leis, gold bric-a-brac, packing tape, miniature figurines, and rainbow-hued footwear. One young woman opted for a traditional Japanese kimono instead of a gown, while a classmate proudly wore the colors of his native Dominican Republic. Still another decorated her mortarboard with a palm tree and dolphin, totems of her Hawaiian home.

154th Commencement

 The ceremonies began with President Burris' warm welcome to the graduates, their families, and friends. "It is a joyous occasion as we recognize the hard work of this wonderful group," he said, adding that "it is doubly special for Sally and me, as today's graduates began at Beloit College in August 2000, as we did. We were first-years together, and we are 'seniors' together. It has been a great four years."

Venerable journalist Jim Lehrer received an honorary degree from Beloit during Commencement exercises. Lehrer told graduates that if Peggy Robinson’74 (senior producer of The NewsHour) is any measure of the quality of Beloit College graduates, “you, the class of 2004, are all winners—brilliant in mind, excited in spirit, with great futures and lives ahead of you.” Lehrer’s speech is online.

Honored speaker Jim Lehrer, executive editor and anchor of the award-winning NewsHour with Jim Lehrer on Public Television and author of 14 novels, challenged the class to make the most of new opportunities.

"No matter what you decide to do with your life, also serve... your neighborhood, town, city, state, and country," he implored. "...Be part of the dialogue, the debate, the decision-making in our democracy.... We must all serve, with our minds, and our voices, and hearts.

"As you search for your place in life... take risks," he continued. "Take charge.... Create your own risks by setting your own standards, satisfying your own standards."

Though directed at the Beloiters seated before him, Lehrer's words illuminated the achievements of fellow honorees on stage. Elizabeth Burmaster, Wisconsin superintendent of public instruction, was cited for her academic service to and high standards for public education and was awarded an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree.

Alumnus Matthew Marvin'37 received an honorary degree for his leadership, philanthropy, and devotion to "securing opportunity and direction for young people" and "setting an example for those who seek their own balance between career and community service."

Walter Knight, director of the Rock County Opportunities Industrialization Center (OIC) and esteemed citizen of Beloit, was awarded the President's Medal in recognition of "all he has done to enhance this community and to extend its opportunity and influence."

Emeritus status was conferred upon retiring faculty member Gary Cook (philosophy). Having taught at Beloit for nearly 40 years, he was praised for his scholarship and lasting contributions to "the academic life of this campus and the cultural and spiritual life of the community beyond the College."

The 260 members of the class of 2004, representing 33 states and 13 countries, achieved a great deal in their years at Beloit. Sixty-seven graduates completed double majors or in one case a triple-major. While psychology, theatre arts, sociology, and anthropology were among the top majors selected, six independent majors were registered and 12 new teachers were certified.

More than 70 percent of the class studied a language and 42 percent studied abroad. At least 30 graduates have already secured employment, while another 34 expect to enter graduate or professional school within their first year after graduation. Nine others plan to join service organizations, including the Peace Corps.

Coming Together Four years ago, Djuvane Browne'04—who had never been to the Midwest—found Beloit in a college guide and was attracted by its description. He arrived knowing no one, but soon found that "everyone was so friendly, Beloit really felt like my home away from home." So it was with pride that he welcomed his parents, Collette and Danny Browne, and siblings Nicholas, 17, and Jaida, 4, to campus from their home in Kingston, Jamaica. The Thursday before graduation, they left Kingston at 5 a.m. to fly to New York, where they met Djuvane's maternal grandparents, Norma and Desmond Kirlew, his aunt and uncle, Wendy and Colin Blair, and his cousins Omri, Summer, and Jenna. The entire family immediately piled into two cars for the long ride from New York to Wisconsin. They arrived in Beloit late Friday, only to climb back in their cars early Saturday to follow Djuvane to the Midwest Conference track meet at Ripon College, two-and-a-half hours away. They were back on the road Saturday night, and on hand to cheer loudly as Djuvane crossed the Commencement platform Sunday morning. Djuvane's mother admitted that she was tired, but also very happy. "This is the proudest moment," she said with a smile. "It was difficult to have our son go so far away from home for college. But it is a great accomplishment, and all possible through God." Djuvane, who majored in psychology and is considering a career in freelance graphic and Web design, is pleased that his family had a chance to meet friends, faculty members, and others. "Now they understand better why I liked Beloit so much." More about Djuvane Browne's outstanding achievements in track is in the News section of the online magazine.

RELATED LINKS:

Read Jim Lehrer ’s 2004 Commencement speech in its entirety.

View more pictures taken during Commencement 2004.

EMAIL:

Susan Kasten - Editor, Beloit College Magazine