Fox Cities News

Lawrence University celebrated its 2024 graduates at a Commencement ceremony held on June 9 on Main Hall Green. Pawo Choyning Dorji, a Bhutanese filmmaker and Lawrence alumnus from the class of 2006 who earned a 2022 Oscar nomination, delivered the Commencement address. He urged the graduates to embrace learning from failure, maintain curiosity, and understand interdependence.

“Class of 2024, may your curiosity always be insatiable, may you always nurture and cherish your curiosity,” Dorji said. “May your curiosity take you to the most interesting of places, and may it empower you to live colorful lives.”

The faculty, led by marshal Celia Barnes in traditional regalia, processed across College Avenue onto Main Hall Green. They were joined by President Laurie A. Carter, Board of Trustees Chair Cory Nettles ’92, honored guests Dorji and James Gandre ’81. The faculty greeted the graduates as they took their seats while family and friends captured the moment with photos and videos. The Lawrence University Graduation Band provided musical accompaniment under sunny skies.

Dorji and Gandre received honorary degrees for their career accomplishments and commitment to Lawrence’s educational mission. Of the 341 graduates who walked the stage, 272 received Bachelor of Arts degrees, 29 Bachelor of Music degrees, 27 dual Bachelor of Arts & Bachelor of Music Degrees, and 13 Bachelor of Musical Arts degrees.

Senior class speaker Monique Johnson praised her classmates' resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic and their role in revitalizing campus life as conditions improved. “Lawrence has given us the blueprint to a successful life," she said. "Shine your light like the Lawrentian you are.”

President Carter encouraged graduates to stay connected with Lawrence and support each other in future endeavors. “Let the Lawrence family be a source of comfort and care wherever your journey takes you,” she said.

Dorji shared his post-graduation journey which included studying Buddhism in Himalayan monasteries before becoming an award-winning filmmaker despite initial setbacks. “To the Class of 2024," he said, "you will no doubt go through your own share of shadows... but I pray that through this experience... you truly discover...the beauty of light."

Matt Murphy '06 welcomed new alumni into the community on behalf of LUAA. Johnson reflected on her transformative experience at Lawrence: “Lawrence became the home I never knew I needed,” she said.

The ceremony concluded with confetti bursts as graduates recessed through Lawrence Arch—a tradition symbolizing their transition from students to alumni—followed by celebrations with family and friends on College Avenue.

Carter affirmed that these graduates are prepared for future challenges: “Your Lawrence education has shown you the path to a lifetime of learning... Without question, you are now better equipped to adapt...and thrive.”