Corey, Stockless Graduate From Colby College

Two Framingham residents were among 483 seniors who graduated from Colby College in Waterville, Maine, on May 24, receiving bachelor of arts degrees at the College’s 194th Commencement.

Iconic actor and filmmaker Robert Redford was the guest speaker.

Timothy E. Corey of Framingham is the son of Edward and Laurie Corey and a graduate of Worcester Academy. Corey majored in biology with a neuroscience concentration.

Lauren M. Stockless of Framingham is the daughter of James and Sheryl Stockless and a graduate of Framingham High School. Stockless majored in English and theater and dance.

In front of a crowd numbering in the thousands, Redford spoke about challenges graduates will face and the need for collaboration and connection, saying, “Don’t be afraid to take a risk, don’t be afraid of failure, be bold.”

“You’re stepping into a world that’s, well, pretty rough. It’s pretty chaotic, pretty divisive,” Redford told graduates. “You’ve got climate change, you’ve got debt, you’ve got wars, you’ve got political paralysis. It’s kind of a grim story. But the story, I think, can be retold, and I really believe that you’re the ones to do it. ... This school has provided you with the tools and it’s provided you with the history ... to go out in the world and make a difference.”

Colby President David A. Greene, presiding over his first commencement since taking office last summer, handed a diploma to each of the graduates.

Founded in 1813, Colby offers a rigorous academic program rooted in deep exploration of ideas and close interaction with world-class faculty scholars. Students choose among 57 majors or developing their own. Colby is home to a community of 1,850 dedicated and diverse students from around the globe.