UC Announces Commencement Speaker
Desirée Dismore
Issue date: 2/1/07 Section: News
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Collins is truly a pioneer in her field. She is the first woman to pilot and command an American Spacecraft, according to wikipedia.com. She started her academic career at a community college because her family could not afford to send her away to school. Upon completion of her associate degree, she received a scholarship to Syracuse University. Collins then graduated with a bachelor's in mathematics and economics.
Collins later went on to enter the Air Force Undergraduate Training program in 1978. In 1990, she was selected for NASA's astronaut training program.
Collins has been to space on four different occasions, totaling more than 872 hours. Wikipedia.com has also noted that Collins is additionally the first and only woman to be pregnant in space. Her first child, Bridget, was born seven months after her first shuttle mission.
"As a member of the UC community for a number of years, it has been a joy watching our students grow into successful graduates. I can't wait to see what is next for our graduates as well as Colonel Collins," said Mark Kovacs, director of Alumni and Parent Relations.
Many students on campus have stereotyped commencement speakers in a negative fashion. Some of these ideas include the notion that speakers in the past have been boring and they are not highly recognized individuals. Vice president of the senior class, Tyrell Robinson, is relieved that the commencement speaker actually sounds like she can relate to the students.
"It is refreshing to think that Collins will actually be able to relate to our struggle because she has struggled as well," Robinson said.
Commencement typically serves as the last day before graduating seniors crossover into alumni. With a speaker who has been through the same undergraduate process, Collins should serve as in inspirational and empowering speaker who will hopefully motivate students to continue following their dreams and fulfilling the legacy that comes along with being a Pioneer.
"Her groundbreaking achievements and pioneering spirit serve as an inspiration and provides a picture of what it means to live a life of purpose and meaning," said UC graduate and director of public relations, Kelly Adams.
Commencement this year will take place at 11 a.m. on Sunday, May 13 in the Utica Memorial Auditorium.
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