William Penn University Celebrates the Graduation of Its 2024 Class
William Penn University graduation ceremony 2024. (photo by Jennifer Sheeley)
OSKALOOSA, IA—In a memorable ceremony that marked both an ending and a beginning, William Penn University conferred degrees on over 300 graduates in its 2024 commencement, held May 11th, beginning at 10 a.m.
The ceremony celebrated the students’ hard work and achievement and commemorated the institution’s 150th anniversary.
The university’s President, John Ottosson, opened the ceremony by highlighting the event’s historical significance. “This special graduation year completes our 150th year as an institution,” he said, addressing the University’s Penn Activity Center crowd. The commencement drew a large audience of family members, friends, and faculty, all eager to celebrate the graduates’ achievements.
In his speech, President Audison acknowledged the unique challenges faced by the graduating class, especially those who had missed their high school graduation due to unforeseen circumstances four years ago during the height of COVID-19. He hoped the day would be remembered as celebrating their success.
The keynote speaker, Derrick Willis, an alumnus of William Penn and current director of the Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities at the University of Iowa, shared his journey and his education’s profound impact on his life. His speech emphasized the value of hard work, perseverance, and service to others.
The graduates from diverse academic backgrounds were honored as they walked across the stage to receive their diplomas. Notable among them were students graduating summa cum laude, which signifies a degree that was received with the highest honor.
As the ceremony concluded, the graduates participated in the traditional moving of the tassel, signifying their transition from students to alums. President Ottosson’s closing remarks encapsulated the day’s spirit, “You are now William Penn University graduates. Be proud. You have achieved a milestone that speaks volumes about your potential and your future.”
The ceremony was followed by the blue and gold ribbon ceremony, a longstanding tradition at William Penn University. The ribbon ceremony symbolizes the graduates’ entry into the alumni association and their continued connection to the university.
