Press ReleaseMarlboro College Graduate Center Honors Graduates
With all the graduate programs being technologically-based, it was fitting that the Commencement Address was delivered by Todd Thompson, Vice President and Chief Information Officer at JetBlue Airways. In that role, Thompson is responsible for companywide information technology projects and operations, spanning all networks, servers, datacenters, desktops, and devices.
Thompson reminded the graduates that they have a wonderful opportunity to not only employ their skills but to do so in new ways that will benefit those whom they will serve. In this process, they will need to re-think the usual ways of conducting business. To illustrate his point, Thompson referred to the five guiding values of JetBlue: safety, caring, integrity, fun, and passion. He noted that the usual goals of "profit" and "corporate strategy" were not on the list. "Our belief is that these important values need to be lived by each member of the organization. In so doing, they have made JetBlue one of the country's most successful airlines." He then urged the graduates to create their own value system and reminded them to pursue it with "passion." "There's an old saying," added Thompson, that when all is said and done, usually there's more said than done. I hope you will use your knowledge and skills in new ways that will go beyond just your personal success to following principles and values that will provide great benefit to others."
Jean Chute of Pawtucket, Rhode Island was the Class Speaker. This honor goes each year to the student whom the faculty choose as most personifying the academic and personal ideals of the Graduate Center. Chute's address thoughtfully centered on the accomplishments of each graduate and on the support given by family, friends, and faculty. Closing her remarks, Chute reiterated that "Life is Good" - adding that, in her case, thanks to her studies at the Graduate Center she has already been offered two jobs and will begin one in South Burlington, Vermont.
Other highlights included the annual President's Award being presented to Michele Hamer of West Townshend, Vermont. This award is given to the graduate whose Capstone Project is rated as the most outstanding by the Graduate Center faculty. Hamer created "Plug and Play," a professional development guide for teachers for the infusion of computer technology as a learning tool into the classroom. Following the ceremony, a reception was held for the graduates and their guests.
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