Musician Dixson, Bolton's last speech highlight College of Wooster graduation
WOOSTER – Reflection and appreciation was shared by graduates and those in attendance at the College of Wooster’s 152nd commencement Monday.
Graduates hailed from various cities across Ohio and the country, with some from far-off places such as China, India and Ghana.
Bijeta Lamichhane from Nepal, said she is happy to see everyone together at the end of a long four years.
“We've managed to find home in this community despite being far away and (issues) like COVID with remote learning and everything,” Lamichhane said. “I think we still have a really good sense of community and I hope we all retain that no matter where we go.”
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Rain delay and a final speech from President Bolton
After being delayed roughly an hour and a half due to rain and generator issues, the nearly 400 graduates were led into the John P. Papp Stadium where some wore masks.
The rain and gray skies gave way to sunshine just before the procession of students was led into the packed stadium by a kilted band of bagpipers and drummers. As they made there way in, they walked through a tunnel of clapping faculty and were met by applause from the crowd in the stands.
President Sarah Bolton presided over her final graduation as leader of the college with her term ending in July. She is leaving Wooster after her nearly 5 ½ years to become president of the Whitman College in Wala Wala, Washington.
In her opening speech, Bolton reminded graduates of all they have been through during their time at Wooster and the impact they can have on the world.
“Thank you for strengthening our campus and communities around the world,” Bolton said. “Your leadership has mattered here, and it will continue to matter wherever you go in the years ahead.”
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Commencement speakers reflect on their time at the College of Wooster
Two graduates, Jenna Smith and Benton Thompson IV, shared stories from their time at Wooster. Thompson reminded everyone that while their journey toward their degree might not have been easy, it will help them long into the future.
“All the aspects of life won't be easy for you in the future, as I'm sure you've experienced here at Wooster,” Thompson said. “But each of you has shown that you are truly equipped with the tools to persevere, no matter the circumstances.”
Keynote speaker, 2013 graduate Darius Scott, a musician known as Dixson, was on “The Voice” in 2016 and received an Oscar nomination this year for his work in the “King Richard” movie.
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Dixson said when he started his journey at Wooster, his plans changed after he did not pass the entrance test for his desired major. His mother challenged him to find a new path connected to music, which took him in a different direction.
Dixson encouraged the graduates to do the same as they face struggles, and use the challenges to push them in the future.
“Failures, suffering, loss and grief can create theories that hinder us more than they help us,” Dixson said. “… I challenge you to not get comfortable in your theories, but to use them ... to regenerate the faith you need to endure tough times.”
Reach Rachel Karas at rkaras@gannett.com
On Twitter: @RachelKaras3
This article originally appeared on The Daily Record: Musician Dixson returns to College of Wooster, challenges graduates
