3 Framingham Students Graduate from Assumption College

Assumption College’s 98th Commencement ceremony was held May 16 on the campus’s H.L. Rocheleau Field, where 455 Bachelor of Arts degrees; 195 graduate studies degrees (Master of Arts and Master of Business Administration) and certificates; and 41 Continuing and Career Education degrees (Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Business Administration, Bachelor of Science, and associates) were awarded.

Thousands of students, their families and friends, trustees, and other special guests were on hand to celebrate the achievements of the graduating class and hear the inspirational messages delivered by Major General Robert Catalanotti (Ret.) ‘80, Assumption College President Francesco C. Cesareo, Ph.D., and valedictorian Cassie Ann Lincoln ‘15.

The following Framingham students were awarded Bachelor’s degrees:

• Ashley DeLeon graduated with a major in Human Services and Rehabilitation Studies and a minor in Spanish.
• Diana DeStefano graduated with a major in Human Services and Rehabilitation Studies.
• Kourtnie Wilder graduated with a double major in Biology and Education.

In his welcoming remarks to the Class of 2014, President Cesareo shared, “As you prepare to go forth from Assumption, I challenge you to take what you have learned to lead a life beyond the self by contributing your time and talent in service to the community so as to create a better world for future generations. It is my hope that Assumption College has provided you with the foundation to make a life that will never case to give.”

Catalanotti, who was introduced by salutatorian Brennen T. Shaw ‘15, encouraged the students to go forward and set goals at each level of their relationships, families, and career journey.

“Don’t let anyone tell you differently,” he said. “You are as good as anyone else is--always keep striving, and don’t look back. Be good to yourself, each other, and champion each other to success.

In her valedictory address, Lincoln, a psychology major, challenged her fellow graduates to continue their service to others.

“Many of you have already done so, whether it be on a SEND [community service immersion] trip or working with a Catholic charity for Nepal earthquake victims ...,” she said. “Don’t let it stop here. Remember that small acts of kindness can and do make an everlasting difference.”

During the ceremony, honorary degrees were conferred upon Catalanotti, the former commander of Camp Taji, the largest military base used by coalition forces in Iraq, and Terrence W. Macy ‘70, Ph.D., the former commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Developmental Services.

Founded in 1904 by the Augustinians of the Assumption in Worcester, Assumption College offers 42 majors and 48 minors in the liberal arts, sciences, business, and professional studies, through an educational experience grounded in the rich Catholic intellectual tradition coupled with professional programs and the opportunity to study at the College’s campus in Rome, Italy.