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Home / Commencement / Commencement Archive / Commencement 2019 / Franklin & Marshall – Your Core is 'The Source of Your Passion,' Speaker Tells Graduates

Your Core is 'The Source of Your Passion,' Speaker Tells Graduates

May 11, 2019
by Peter Durantine

Franklin & Marshall College alumna Dr. Rahel Nardos '97, director of global health for Oregon Health & Science University's Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, offered graduates at F&M's May 12 Commencement a perspective on her experiences growing up poor in Ethiopia.

"They were responsible for making me who I am today, what I chose to care about, how I define success, and how hard I am willing to work for it," said Nardos, who supports a women's health program in sub-Saharan Africa."What experiences shape your internal compass? What speaks to you at your core? Take time to find the answers to these questions," she told the Class of 2019. "They will be the source of your passion, your fulfillment and your resilience in the face of obstacles."

Robed in black, 540 students — including 94 international students from 28 countries and 97 first-generation students, crossed Hartman Green on a bright, blue, breezy day to ascend the stage where F&M President Barbara Altmann presented the graduates with their hard-earned baccalaureates.

View the highlights of a day that celebrated achievement:

F&M President Barbara K. Altmann with honorary degree recipients Bebe Miller, left, and Dr. Rahel Nardos '97.
F&M's Senior Director of Instrumental Music and Conducting Studies Brian Norcross leads the Commencement Wind Ensemble in "Pomp and Circumstance" as the graduates assemble on Hartman Green.
Graduates begin the procession to Commencement ceremonies on Hartman Green.
Robing in Mayser Gym where a few caps signal the future of the wearer.
Friends sharing some of the day's wonderful moments.
Dr. Rahel Nardos '97 shares some of her experiences as a student at F&M.
Graduates considering the future as they listen to encouragement from the day's speakers.
A day of thousands of selfies among friends.
Commencement isn't complete without a cap toss!
A graduate shares a moment with his family.
A blue-sky day and sunshine toasted the day for graduates.
Graduates assembled via their College Houses to receive their diplomas.
Jack Shilling, board president of F&M's Alumni Association, passes the torch to the next generation of alumni, represented by Jacqueline Koob '19.
A salute to friends and family.
"I really did it!"
 
 

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