Tuesday, May 20
7:30 p.m.
Avery Fisher Hall, Lincoln Center
10 Lincoln Center Plaza
517 bachelor degree graduates

Change, celebration and a look toward solving the problems that face our generation — from social equality to climate change — seemed to be instilled in each speech presented at the graduating ceremony of the Gallatin School of Individualized Study. Dean Susanne Wofford utilized musical references to demonstrate the essential role creativity has on political change. Ulrich Baer, vice provost for the Faculty, Arts, Humanities and Diversity, gave an inspirational speech which acknowledged that the graduating class is “a class of worldly students,” capable of being fully engaged and present in the world. Academy Award-winning screenwriter and Gallatin alumnus John Ridley described his personal college journey and how he only faced success in school when he was presented with concepts and subjects that inspired him. Ridley moved the audience as he tearfully gave the advice that, “Success are those times in life when you’re happy to be you.” The ceremony ended with a nostalgic performance from student Audra LaBrosse, who sung a fitting song with the lyrics “We are what’s happening,” a reminder of the journey the class of 2014 is about to embark on.

Dana Reszutek is beauty/style editor. Email her at [email protected].