Penn State Abington celebrated more than 300 graduates from the classes of 2020 and 2022 during two ceremonies on May 6. Since the pandemic precluded hosting commencement in 2020, those graduates were invited to return to campus to celebrate this spring.
Paige Mazzacano, who earned a degree in corporate communication in 2020, spoke on behalf of her classmates.
“The last two years have tested all of us on many levels: professionally, personally and academically. We have learned a lot about ourselves and our inner strength to overcome battles.” she said.
“If I give you one piece of advice, it would be: Take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way. It may not be the path you envisioned to begin your career, however, you never know what doors will open throughout your journey,” Mazzacano said.
Class of 2022 valedictorian Sorelle Sax, whose degree is in rehabilitation and human services, said that each person navigated a unique journey and how her own path included prioritizing her mental health.
“Upon transferring to Abington, I thrived on the small class sizes and the ability to make more impactful connections with my professors. I learned from some of the most talented professionals in the field. I was able to do all of this while focusing on my mental health. I no longer felt like a flower deprived of sunlight and without room to grow. Rather, I began to absorb the nourishment provided by my professors and the Abington community, and as a result, I blossomed,” she said.