Congratulations to the Class of 2009!

Everything about the Webster University commencement on Saturday, May 9 was spectacular! Friday’s rain was gone and the clouds politely disappeared to let the morning sunlight shine on Forest Park in St. Louis. Inside the park, there was magic at the Muny – the nation’s oldest and largest outdoor theatre.

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Click here for photos of the Commencement Ceremony

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At 9:30 a.m. sharp, Sir Edward Elgar’s Pomp and Circumstance March No. 1 filled the air as the Class of 2009 processed into the theatre. Graduates from all Schools and Colleges filed into the front rows of the 11,000-seat Muny. Family members, friends and welcome guests of the Class of 2009 were awestruck as students carrying international flags, followed by the majestic John Ford Highland Band bagpipers lead by Leigh Gerdine College of Fine Arts Dean Peter Sargent, entered the theatre. Next came the Honor Guard and members of Webster University’s faculty, administration and board of trustees. Following tradition, President Neil J. George was the final member of the procession.

The university’s Jazz Vocal Ensemble sang the national anthem and Dr. David Greenhaw delivered the invocation. President George welcomed the graduates and guests and invited members of the board of trustees to present Honorary Doctorates to Saint Louis Symphony Music Director and conductor David Robertson, Monsanto Chairman, President and CEO Hugh Grant and professional actor and Webster University alumnus Rocky Carroll.

Rocky Carroll’s commencement address resonated with graduates. He spoke about his own journey, lifelong learning and listening closely when teachers open their vaults of knowledge and invite learners to partake. Applause roared through the Muny as Rocky Carroll thanked the graduates for letting him be part of their great day.

After the presentation of the Distinguished Alumni Award to Leyna Nguyen ’92, Vice President James Staley invited all degree candidates to stand as President George delivered the official conferral of their hard-earned and well-deserved Webster University degrees.

President George closed the ceremony as the Class of 2009 processed from the theatre.