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Today was a day of great celebration, as �������� hosted its first in-person commencement ceremonies since December 2019. Two ceremonies took place outdoors at �������� Stadium and followed all social distancing guidelines.

Our 3,265 spring graduates range in age from 17 to 71 and represent 53 countries. More than one-third of the members of this class are the first in their families to earn a college degree.

At our 5 p.m. ceremony, we heard a special address by Dr. Michael Metzner, who was inducted into the �������� Alumni Hall of Fame this week. Dr. Metzner graduated from the Harriet L. Wilkes Honors College in 2012. As a medical advisor and associate producer for the ABC TV show “Grey’s Anatomy,” he works with the writers, directors and actors to produce the most realistic and captivating stories each week.

I know the past year was not what our graduates imagined when they began their journeys here at ��������, and I commend their perseverance during this unprecedented time. It was wonderful to be able to gather — at long last — to celebrate this much-anticipated occasion with them and their families.

Congratulations, Class of 2021! We are very proud of you.