Message to UW Fall Graduates: Get Involved

By Kristy Harriet, College of Arts and Sciences writing intern

Dec. 7, 2004 -- This year's University of Wyoming College of Arts and Sciences commencement address will give graduates an opportunity to think about what they can give back to society.

In his speech titled, "Going Out in Public," Charles Ksir, Department of Psychology professor and former College of Education dean, will talk to students about what they have gained as a result of their education and what they can do now.

"I want the students to reflect on how they got here and to develop a sense of awareness about how much the Wyoming public has contributed financially to their education," Ksir says.

Since the graduates now are members of the larger society, Ksir believes it is their turn to get involved and start giving back.

"It doesn't have to be just donations. They can give back by volunteering to be coaches or members of the school board. Giving comes in many forms -- just so long as they are not thinking only of their own goals," Ksir notes.

Ksir chose the topic of public involvement because, as a member of the Albany County School Board, he learned a great deal about the amount of state funds that goes toward education. He also is an advocate for public education because it strengthens communities.

"When people become active members of the public they can begin to see that they are a part of something bigger than themselves," Ksir says.

The College of Arts and Sciences commencement, to be held jointly with the College of Agriculture ceremonies, will be held Friday, Dec. 10, at 6:30 p.m. in the A&S auditorium. Other UW fall commencement speakers are:

BUSINESS -- Students Ryan Ford, Cheyenne, finance; Bryan Hall, Casper, business administration; and Stasia Straley, Laramie, master's degree student in accounting, Dec. 11, 10 a.m., A&S auditorium.

EDUCATION -- Joe Stepans, professor in the Department of Secondary Education, Dec. 11, 10 a.m., Wyoming Union Yellowstone Ballroom.

ENGINEERING -- Stephanie Popp of Laramie, Wyoming Engineering Society Student of the Year, Dec. 10, 6:30 p.m., Fine Arts Center concert hall.

HEALTH SCIENCES -- Robert O. Kelley, dean of the College of Health Sciences, Dec. 11, 10 a.m., Fine Arts Center concert hall.

MULTICULTURAL GRADUATION -- James Trosper, UW trustee from Ft. Washakie, Dec. 10, 4 p.m., Wyoming Union Family Room.

Posted on Tuesday, December 07, 2004