HFA Celebrates Graduating Class of 2023 with Ceremony, Medals, and More
The HFA Senior Recognition Ceremony was held on Saturday, May 27, 2023
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The College of Humanities and Fine Arts celebrated the more than 500 students who were part the graduating class of 2023 on Saturday, May 27, with its annual HFA Senior Recognition Ceremony, a personalized event where graduates have their names announced as they walk across the stage and receive special commemorative medals from the college’s leaders.
Dean Barbara Krauthamer began the celebration with a speech that encouraged students to take time to appreciate all that they had accomplished over the last few years, and to look toward their bright futures that lie ahead.
"Your education in the humanities and arts has prepared you well to do this—because you’ve chosen to understand the complexity, frailty, and beauty of humanity, and to look at the human condition past and present to see it for all of its good and bad," Krauthamer said. "You may not feel that way now; and I’m sure some of you, or your parents, are wondering, to quote Taylor Swift: 'how could a person know everything at eighteen and nothing at twenty two?' But I assure you—you are ready. Take what you’ve learned here, as well as all the qualities you have within yourselves and individuals, and bring that out into the world."
Graduating students were recognized from each department, including the Afro-American Studies; Architecture; Art; History of Art and Architecture; Classics; English; History; Judaic and Near Eastern Studies; Languages, Literatures, and Cultures; Linguistics; Music and Dance; Philosophy; Theater; and Women, Gender, Sexuality Studies.
Krauthamer concluded her speech by inviting students to make a difference in the world as graduates.
"Do not be afraid to challenge the status quo; you are ready and willing to fight for what matters most. Ask hard questions; dream boldly; propose wild solutions to big problems; communicate with passion; create connections and build communities with those around you," she said. "You have learned how make room for other perspectives, to bask in moments of collective joy, and to create space for compassion and growth. You are forward thinking, adaptable, and curious, and you have the skills and knowledge to shake things up. The world needs your thoughtfulness, resilience, compassion, and patience. The world needs you."
