BLOOMINGTON, Ill. – The graduating class of 2024 was honored Sunday during a commencement ceremony on the campus of Illinois Wesleyan University.
The greenery of the Eckley Quadrangle was accented by 340 robed Titans who accepted diplomas in front of State Farm Hall on the Glenn ’22 and Rozanne Parker Kemp ’27 Commencement Plaza before a crowd of more than 3,400 supporters.
- See the Commencement program booklet
- Watch the Commencement ceremony video
- View the photo album from Commencement day
President S. Georgia Nugent speaks to graduates in front of State Farm Hall.
Speakers at the 174th commencement ceremony spoke on themes of kindness and success, as well as perseverance, given that the class of 2024 graduated from high school and began college in 2020 amid disruptions from the global pandemic.
Noting that it was her last commencement ceremony after serving 20 years in college leadership, President S. Georgia Nugent spoke of the value of higher education to individuals and to society.
“Graduates, as you walk across the stage, you will be receiving not only a diploma, but the opportunity for a richer, fuller life than if you had not earned the degree,” said Nugent.
She pointed to data that shows that college graduates on average live longer and healthier lives.
“College grads vote more, volunteer more and are more likely to have leadership roles, whether in their profession, community or other pursuits. Members of the class of 2024, we have seen that potential in you as so many of you have taken initiatives and taken on leadership roles here on campus,” said Nugent.
Board of Trustees Chair Timothy Szerlong '74 recognized that graduates of Illinois Wesleyan tend to share three similar traits — first, a profound appreciation for the influence of their liberal arts education; second, lasting memories of the learning experience and support provided by faculty or staff; and third, cherished, lifelong friendships that began on campus.
“Take the initiative to explore solutions with an enthusiasm and unwavering conviction. Demonstrate a willingness to step forward and ask hard questions, with a visible commitment to better outcomes,” said Szerlong. “This approach, supported by what you’ve learned here, will help you succeed, distinguish yourself and lead.”
President of the Alumni Association Board of Directors Derrick Tillman-Kelly '09 said
all IWU students are equipped with the University motto which translates to knowledge
and wisdom, and they embody the “do well, do good” advice of past IWU President Minor
Myers jr.
“I invite you to put the knowledge you’ve acquired in the classroom and through your
extracurriculars with the wisdom you’ve gained from living into practice to ensure
that you continue to do well for yourself and your family and do good for society
and our beloved alma mater. You’re exactly the new generation of Titans we need,”
said Kelly.
He then welcomed the class of 2024 as the newest members of the Alumni Association.
Bryson Connor '24 spoke on behalf of the graduating class, encouraging his peers to embrace fear and change, and to be bold while entering this new chapter.
“Utilize the experiences this school gave you to be bold as you grow. Create bold relationships with people who help you learn. Be bold as you continue your activism and political involvement,” he said.
“When you leave this campus, be bold when upholding the Illinois Wesleyan message of doing well and doing good. Be bold as you use the education you obtained here to break down barriers that distance people. Finally, be bold in celebrating your achievements today, you have earned it.”
Representing members of the faculty, Class of 2024 Professor of the Year and Assistant Professor of Nursing Monica Hall '90 reminded graduates of the importance and necessity of being kind and helping others.
“When we help others succeed, we create a ripple effect that extends far beyond ourselves. By lifting others up, we not only improve their lives, but we also create a more compassionate and supportive society. When we support and empower those around us, we build stronger communities and a more inclusive world,” said Hall.
Before addressing the Class of 2024 with a speech titled, “It’s Okay to Fail,” commencement speaker T.J. Newman '06 was awarded an honorary doctor of humane letters degree. Newman spoke about her untraditional path beyond graduation.
After studying musical theatre at IWU, Newman moved to New York City with hopes of pursuing an acting career, which didn’t form as she had envisioned. After returning home to Arizona and beginning a job at an indie bookstore, Newman began to write.
She later worked as a flight attendant and was inspired at 30,000 feet to write her first thriller novel, “Falling,” which debuted at number two on the New York Times bestseller list in 2021. Her second novel, “Drowning,” was released in 2023 and also became an instant New York Times bestseller. Each will soon be major motion picture films after being sold in seven-figure deals.
“It’s OK to fail. It’s my failure as a Broadway actress that led to my success as a bestselling author,” she said.
Newman encouraged her fellow Titans to determine their personal definition of success “before someone else defines it for you.”
“Once you do — hold on loosely. If you cling to it too tightly, you might miss what’s actually meant for you,” she said. “My dreams might have changed, but not once did I stop honoring my authentic self. That is my definition of success.”