William Penn Sends Class Of 2018 Into Their Future

Corbin Medley (foreground) is all smiles as the graduation ceremony comes to an end.

Oskaloosa, Iowa – And just like that, another class of students walk across the stage at William Penn University, ready to face their future.

Those students come from all over the United States and dozens of countries around the world. Penn prides itself on its rich diversity, and being a place where that diversity helps to build a better understanding.

WPU President John Ottosson opened the ceremony, welcoming this years graduating class, family and friends who had traveled great distances to attend.

2018 was the 143rd Commencement ceremony for William Penn University. Speaker for this year is a William Penn alum, a former Board of Trustees member and Board Chair David Printy from the class of 1968.

“You know education truly is a team sport. Each member of the Penn community has a desire to see you succeed so that this day would be your day,” said Printy. “To celebrate your academic accomplishments.”

“All of us surrounding you this morning are so proud of you,” added Printy.

A special moment of the ceremony was the acceptance of Marquis Todd’s degree by his mother Michelle Turner.

When all of the diplomas and awards had been handed out, the class of 2018 stepped out onto the lawn of Penn Hall. There, in the warm May sun, they took part in the Blue and Gold Ceremony and became part of the rich fabric of Penn Alumni.

Smiles and hugs often turned into an emotional roller-coaster, as people who had become friends over the years said goodbye to one another, many for the last time; each carrying a piece of William Penn and Oskaloosa home with them.