Three commencement ceremonies and more than 1,200 strolls across the Clemente Center stage, songs and streamer cannons, congratulations and applause, together amounting to this shared truth: something new is afoot.
“Florida Tech, class of 2024, the world awaits your brilliance,” retired astronaut and Florida Tech alumna Joan Higginbotham told the graduates in her sage keynote remarks. “Go forth and make it a better place.”
On Saturday, Florida Tech held spring commencement for the class of 2024 that conferred more than 1,750 degrees across morning, afternoon and early evening ceremonies. More than 1,200 students from the university’s colleges of science and engineering, aviation, business and psychology and liberal arts, collected their diplomas in person.
For each and all, an ending and a beginning.
The students represented a remarkable 73 countries and all 50 states, a depth of geographic and cultural diversity that President John Nicklow said represents an essential and welcome aspect of the Florida Tech experience.
“Accepting and learning from people and cultures different from what we are familiar with – that may be one of the most valuable skills we teach our students,” he said in his remarks to the graduates. “Please continue to see the value in the different, the importance of plurality, and the positive impact such a mindset will provide – in both business and life.”
An astronaut, engineer, rocket scientist, corporate leader and business owner, Higginbotham brought a unique and seasoned perspective to her speech. She spoke of the importance of finding one’s “it” and of not being afraid to take a detour from an initial plan.
“Don’t be afraid to deviate from the roadmap when the right opportunity presents itself,” she said.
She suggested students avoid comparing themselves to others, as each “possesses unique talents, experiences and perspectives.”
Surround yourself with people you uplift, inspire and challenge you, she told the students, and always be open to the “amazing opportunities that life presents.” Don’t be deterred by setbacks and do follow your dreams.
The journey, Higginbotham concluded, is as important as the destination.
“Cherish each moment, learn from every experience, and never lose sight of the incredible potential that resides within each and every one of you.”
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At each ceremony, President Nicklow requested a moment of silence in memory of Sara Catanese, the gracious and well-loved former Florida Tech First Lady who passed away earlier in the week after a brief illness.
“Her university family will always remember her and be grateful for her service to this community,” he said.