—» Commencement Photos
—» Baccalaureate Photos

Emmanuel College marked its 84th Commencement on Saturday, May 13, 2006 in a ceremony that celebrated its graduates and tradition of community involvement by paying tribute to individuals who have dedicated their lives to service. Graduates receiving bachelor's and master's degrees from the College this year totaled 517.

"Our Commencement is an opportunity for our graduating students to ponder the life experiences of some truly remarkable individuals who have focused their lives on serving others," said Emmanuel College President Sister Janet Eisner, SND. "We challenge our graduates to act, to lead, to give generously to others, and to make a positive difference in the world."

Internationally-acclaimed author Mitch Albom, whose book Tuesdays with Morrie serves as an anthem for humanitarian service, was Emmanuel's Commencement Speaker. The Brandeis University graduate chronicled the wisdom and end-of-life struggles of his former Brandeis professor in Tuesdays with Morrie and has written seven other books including The Five People You Meet in Heaven. Albom writes for the Detroit Free Press and hosts two syndicated radio shows on ABC. Following his success, Albom founded two charitable organizations in the Detroit area, "The Dream Fund," which promotes arts for children, and "A Time to Help," which organizes volunteers to staff charitable activities in the Detroit area.

Honorary Degrees were conferred upon three individuals whose careers and community work distinguish them within their communities.

Stacey Lucchino, well-known for her work in many of Greater Boston's charitable organizations including with the Boston Red Sox where her husband is president and CEO, received a Doctor of Laws degree honoring her as a community leader and volunteer. Stacey serves as Vice Chair of the Board of Directors of the Greater Boston YMCA and on the board of the United Way of Massachusetts Bay Advisory Council, the Dana Farber Women's Cancer Program, and on the Steering Committee of Rosie's Place.

Marie McCormick, M.D. received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree that recognizes a career that includes her work at the Harvard School of Public Health, where she is the Sumner and Esther Feldberg Professor of Maternal and Child Health. Dr. McCormick is also Professor of Pediatrics at Harvard Medical School and holds degrees from The Johns Hopkins School of Hygiene and Public Health. Her groundbreaking research has improved the lives of infants and children worldwide. She is a 1967 graduate of Emmanuel College and serves on the College's Science Advisory Council.

Louise Gadbois Cash received an honorary degree as a Doctor of Humane Letters. A 1959 graduate of Emmanuel College, Louise retired this year from Emmanuel where she taught for 45 years. She is Professor of Performance Arts and Chair of the Performance Arts Department. During her lifelong association with Emmanuel, her commitment and responsibilities have extended care beyond the classroom and to every corner of the college, not to mention across four continents.

View Commencement Photos  |  View Baccalaureate Photos