Chelmsford Residents Receive Degrees at 147th WPI Commencement

The largest graduating class in WPI’s history, 1,680 students, received their degrees beneath a large, billowing tent that shielded graduates and well-wishers from the sun that occasionally peeked from behind generally cloudy skies. In all, the Institute awarded 956 bachelor’s degrees, 682 master’s degrees, and 42 PhDs during its 147th Commencement exercises.

The following Chelmsford residents recently graduated from Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI).

• Andrew Iovanna was awarded a bachelor of science degree in computer science with high distinction.

• Stone Cleven was awarded a bachelor of science degree in interactive media and game development with distinction.

• Ross Desmond was awarded a master of science degree in robotics engineering.

Thousands gathered to hear messages delivered by WPI President Laurie A. Leshin; Class of 2015 speaker Roman Gutierrez, and keynote speaker Bernard A. Harris Jr., M.D., an astronaut who became the first African American to walk in space, and who went on to become the founder and president of the Harris Foundation, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to “empower individuals, in particular minorities and others who are economically and/or socially disadvantaged, to recognize their potential and pursue their dreams.”

Honorary degrees were conferred upon Dr. Harris; Ellen S. Dunlap, president of the American Antiquarian Society, and Judith Nitsch ‘75, founding principal of Nitsch Engineering and WPI trustee emerita.

The Chairman’s Exemplary Faculty Prize was presented to Kathi Fisler, PhD, professor of computer science and director of the WPI Cybersecurity Program. The prize, established in 2007 through the personal philanthropy of Donald K. Peterson ‘71, former chair of the WPI Board of Trustees, recognizes faculty members who excel in all relevant areas of faculty performance.

In her remarks, Leshin told the graduates, “Each of you - every young woman and young man in front of me - has the capacity, the knowledge, and the opportunity to make an impact.”

Leshin also advised them, “ ... don’t only see the opportunities ahead, but see the responsibilities, as well. In other words, leverage what you’ve achieved here not just to do well, but to do good. Use your degree to make us proud.”