Fox Cities News

Two distinguished alumni of Lawrence University will be featured speakers during the 2024 Commencement weekend. Pawo Choyning Dorji, a filmmaker from Bhutan, and James Gandre, president of the Manhattan School of Music, will address graduates and receive honorary doctorate degrees.

Pawo Choyning Dorji, a 2006 graduate known for his Oscar-nominated film "Lunana: A Yak in the Classroom," will deliver the Commencement address on June 9. The ceremony is scheduled for 10 a.m. on Main Hall Green. Dorji will be honored with an Honorary Doctor of Fine Arts degree.

James Gandre, who graduated in 1981 and leads the Manhattan School of Music in New York City, will speak at the Baccalaureate Service on June 8 at 2:30 p.m. in Memorial Chapel. He will receive an Honorary Doctor of Music degree during Commencement.

“We are thrilled to welcome these two accomplished Lawrentians back to campus as we celebrate the achievements of our 2024 graduates,” said President Laurie A. Carter. “Their journeys are wonderful examples of the power of a liberal arts education.”

Dorji's debut film gained international recognition and was nominated for an Oscar in 2022 for Best International Feature Film. It was filmed in a remote Himalayan school using solar batteries due to its isolated location. His second film, "The Monk and the Gun," released in 2023, also received critical acclaim and was shortlisted for a 2024 Oscar.

Dorji initially pursued photography before filmmaking, publishing photo journals such as "Seeing Sacred: Light and Shadows" and "The Light of the Moon: The Legacy of Xuanzang of Tang."

Gandre returned to lead Manhattan School of Music in 2013 after holding leadership roles there previously and at other institutions like Roosevelt University. Under his presidency, he has overseen significant improvements including renovations and new academic programs.

A tenor vocalist, Gandre has performed with notable orchestras such as the Cleveland Orchestra and has participated in over 175 choral performances with groups like the New York Philharmonic.

Gandre earned his master's degree from San Francisco Conservatory of Music and his Ed.D. from University of Nebraska-Lincoln. His writings have been included in various publications related to music and higher education leadership.