Frostburg State University to Celebrate Student Achievements at Commencement Ceremonies

Dec 7, 2021 10:00 AM

Frostburg State University will celebrate student achievements in two ceremonies on Saturday, Dec. 18. Fall 2021 graduates will be honored at the 159th Commencement ceremony at 9:30 a.m. At 2 p.m. there will be a ceremony for graduates from the Spring 2020, Fall 2020 and Spring 2021 commencement ceremonies that were postponed due to the pandemic.

FSU President Ronald Nowaczyk will address the graduating classes and present diplomas.

This year’s commencement speakers are Trent Keller, from the College of Business; Kaitlyn Elwell, from the College of Education; and Samantha Kight, from the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Three speakers from among the previous graduating classes will address combined ceremony. They are Jordan Beachy, spring 2021; Kodi Bowers, spring 2020; and Noelle Otto, spring 2020. Video addresses shared by the remaining speakers on what would have been their commencement day can be found at the Commencement web site.

Keller, of Hagerstown, will graduate with a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a concentration in general management and a minor in human resources management. Keller made the Dean’s List every semester throughout his Frostburg career since transferring to Frostburg from Hagerstown Community College in spring 2020. He maintained his high academic status while working consistently. He is certified as a guest services professional by the American Hotel & Lodging Association, holds a Level One Certificate in the Foundations of Restaurant Management & Culinary Arts by the National Restaurant Association and is certified as a ServSafe Food Protection Manager. “Trent represents the best character of our students as he embodies the qualities of perseverance, hard work and dedication to turning his goals into reality,” said Dr. Sudhir Singh, dean of the College of Business. “He is universally respected by the faculty who have stated he is a terrific student who is highly supportive of others.”

Elwell, of Lusby, will graduate with a bachelor’s degree in elementary/middle school education with a specialization in mathematics. Elwell made the Dean’s list every semester throughout her Frostburg career. She completed field experiences in sixth grade math at Washington Middle School and fifth grade at Cash Valley Elementary, both in Allegany County. She was one of the very first Teacher Academy of Maryland graduates who enrolled at FSU and has brought her deep level of professionalism and commitment to every course, assignment and experience. “Kaitlyn consistently strives to reach her own high expectations and do her very best for her students,” said Dr. Boyce Williams, dean of the College of Education. “She is a steady and consistent presence, which is necessary to keep her middle and upper elementary students focused and engaged.”

Kight, of Westernport, will graduate with a bachelor’s degree in health science with a minor in chemistry. Kight made the Dean’s List every semester throughout her Frostburg career. In addition to her outstanding GPA, she has worked multiple jobs, including a position as a lab assistant/grader for the Chemistry department, and been very involved in campus activities. She also secured a position with Alzheimer’s and dementia patients to gain clinical experience for her plan to become a physician. Kight is a member of Phi Eta Sigma Honor Society, Gamma Sigma Epsilon Chemistry Honor Society, Tri-Beta Biology Honor Society and Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society. Her instructors noted her excellent attitude, strong work ethic and quiet confidence. “I have known Sami Jo for three years, and she has impressed me greatly with her integrity, drive to succeed and pleasant demeanor,” said Dr. Karen Keller, coordinator of the health science program.

Tickets are required. Masks must be worn by all graduates and attendees. Both ceremonies will also be live streamed. Links to the live streams will be available the day of the ceremonies at Fostburg State web site. For more information, visit Commencement web site.