Commonwealth Honors College Welcomes the Class of 2026
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The Frederick C. Tillis Performance Hall was fully packed on Thursday, September 1st, 2022 as students, families, and friends of the Commonwealth Honors College united to commemorate the 2022 Commonwealth Honors College Induction Ceremony.
After an introductory performance by the UMass Jazz Quartet, Dean Mari Castañeda began the ceremony by welcoming the UMass campus community and emphasizing the necessity of emerging leadership and Honors education.
“In this moment as we continue to grapple with the effects of COVID-19, racial injustice, and deepening economic inequalities,” Castañeda said. “It is more imperative than ever for an Honors education to play a role in transforming students so that their research and learning contribute to the common good and they become compassionate leaders, ready to address today’s most pressing issues in innovative and creative ways.”
After her introduction, Dean Castañeda welcomed Chancellor Kumble Subbaswamy to the podium. Chancellor Subbaswamy noted the strength in diversity that the university and the Honors College embraces: “A university, at its heart, is a place to pursue the truth – and we only find the truth when we consider a variety of perspectives.” Subbaswamy said. “You come from 31 different states and 29 countries across the globe, which means each of you brings a unique background to our community. By sharing your experience, you will expand and enhance our intellectual environment – and I thank you for your contribution.”
Three other speakers were featured at the ceremony, including Elena Carbone, Associate Dean of Curriculum and Academic Oversight and Professor of Nutrition; Mike Nicholson, Alumnus of the Commonwealth Honors College and Mayor of Gardner, Massachusetts; and Carlea Dolcine, a rising senior in the Honors College studying Psychology and Afro-American studies.
Carbone encouraged the incoming first-year students to keep an open mind and attentive eye during their academic journey in the Honors College. “What I hope you will remember is how important it is to keep your eyes, your ears, and your hearts open to what speaks to you.” Carbone said. It may be an article you read in class, a film you see, a piece of music you hear, or a passing conversation with a mentor or a friend. Be ready for these moments.”
Nicholson highlighted the importance of connections and plentiful resources that the Commonwealth Honors College provides: “You see what sets you apart as an Honors student here at UMass is that you have a community of scholars, mentors, colleagues, and coaches all here waiting to help you even after your semester in a specific class is over. You have a full team at your disposal to help you find your path.”
Carlea Dolcine continued the event by sharing her Honors story and the effect that the Honors experience brought: “My Honors experience has primarily brought me to learn how to believe in myself and the results I can achieve.” Dolcine said. “It has taught me to push the boundaries of what I thought to be true of myself, my abilities and my potential. To step out of my comfort zone in making those connections, exploring that question and daring to solve that problem.”
The ceremony was widely well-received, as one mother said, “As a mom, it was great to hear all of the support that they receive.” Additionally, Dolcine’s student experience was especially admired: “I loved hearing her story. It was very insightful to hear from the student speaker and the advice she gave us.”
At the conclusion of the ceremony, each first-year Honors student received Commonwealth Honors College pins, officially inducting them into the college.