Muskingum University Commencement

NEW CONCORD, Ohio- The graduating class of Muskingum University got ready to start a new chapter in their lives Saturday.

Over 300 hard-working students received their bachelor degrees and completed their four-year journey at Muskingum University.

“Commencement is always such a special day on campus,” said university president Susan Hasseler. “We have worked with the students for four years, we’ve seen them learn and grow, and we are so excited to celebrate this next step in their journey.  I always look forward to seeing the students with their parents and their family members. I look forward to shaking their hands at the podium and sometimes giving them a hug. I just look forward to this really wonderful celebration.”

Before they set out on their own, graduates were able to hear words of wisdom from former NASA scientist and ‘Hidden Figure’ Dr. Christine Darden. Dr. Darden said one way to succeed is to make yourself valuable.

“I like the quote in the movie Hidden Figures where Dorthy Vaughan says learn all you can and be valuable to somebody and I think that’s always very important because people if people need you there, they’re going to do something to help keep you there,” said Dr. Darden

Dr. Darden also said the best thing to do is work in an area that is personally enjoyable, and to persevere. She said most people are successful because they have preserved and gone after what they want, not because they were smart.