College marks 50th graduation
BUTLER TWP — The 578 members of Butler County Community College's class of 2018 begin making their way in the world today.
BC3's largest class of the century received words of congratulations and encouragement from alumni, of trustees, college President Nick Neupauer and keynote speaker Brian White, Butler School District superintendent, at Wednesday's 50th commencement ceremony.
Many of the speakers who addressed the graduates took special note of Saxonburg's William “Don” Thomas, who, at 80 years old, is the most senior graduate in BC3 history.
His classmates led a standing ovation for Thomas as he received his associates in arts in history. Faculty and the rest of the audience filling the BC3 Field House to capacity followed suit.
“Relieved” is how Thomas, wearing his blue cap and gown, said he felt after the ceremony. “I'm glad it's over, yet I have things I'm working for too. I'll never forget this place.”
He said he will now begin looking for an online college program to pursue a bachelor's degree in medieval history.
“I think it's inspirational. He really is an inspiration to everybody,” said his daughter, Jennifer Smith, who attended with many family members.
Traditional and nontraditional students ranging from 19 to 80 years old made the class.
“We have parents that will graduate with their children,” Neupauer told the class and their family and friends.
He said the school's 50th graduating class included 33 students receiving at least two degrees or certificates, 28 active military service members and veterans and a couple who met and got married during their time at BC3.
“This is a historic commencement. This is the 50th anniversary of the first commencement of this institution,” Neupauer said.
White told the graduates that they have to keep learning to adapt to an ever changing world.“Your degree is more than the courses you took,” White said. He said businesses are becoming fully automated, and artificial intelligence will require students to continually “reskill and upskill.”“The learning is never over. You have to be a continuous learner. You are the future and I wish you success in every endeavor your pursue,” White said.Ray Steffler, who was re-elected chairman of the college's board of trustees before the ceremony, said BC3 is a steppingstone to further education.“I hope you accept this degree to be a lifelong learner,” Steffler said.“The best teachers are learners, so never stop learning,” said Les Graves, president of the Faculty Organization.Butler County Commissioner Kim Geyer, a member of the class of 1984 and a trustee, said commencement is a beginning.“This evening is about new beginnings and new opportunity for our graduates,” Geyer said.Honors graduate Janelle Fox said the hard work and long nights of study have paid off for her classmates.“Today is the day we have dreamed of and worked toward,” Fox said. “Today is the end of one dream and the beginning of so many more.”The distinguished alumni address was given by Lucille Shapiro, a member of the class of 1973. She encouraged the graduates to become active alumni.“This school is in my heart. I'm sure this will happen to you. We need your brains, your ability and a little of your funds,” Shapiro said to a round of laughter from the crowd. “Never forget your amazing school. We need you.”
