MANSFIELD, PA— Three hundred forty eight students received degrees at Mansfield University’s 151st 
Commencement on Saturday, May 7 at Karl Van Norman Field.
MU President Fran Hendricks, a 1979 Mansfield graduate, told the graduates, “I do not claim to be able to predict the future, but I do maintain I can see it. I see it in each of you and I sense the amazing things you will do in your lives, things you cannot even imagine. I make this assertion because history has demonstrated time and time again the power of a Mansfield degree coupled with the Mansfield experience.”
Sheri Beam, an award-winning communication expert and educator, and a 1971 Mansfield graduate, was the speaker.
After starting her life after college in education, Beam went to work for NASA, creating a variety of communication firsts, including a series of award-winning technology videos called “Hallmarks of Success,” a public-private partnership event in New York City and branding and marketing collateral for various NASA organizations Her work received numerous NASA, Telly, Communicator and AVA awards.
In 2008, Beam was recognized with the NASA Exceptional Public Service Medal for her work with the agency’s small technology business partners. The award is highest service honor that NASA awards to a non-government individual.
Today, Beam has returned to teaching, working at an international school and as an idea generation and communication consultant. She has plans to launch a website related to her passion for travel.
“Recent trends show that your career paths will be different than those of your grandparents, and even different than those of your parents.” Beam told her newest fellow alumni. “You will most likely have several careers, in several places. Although I belong to those other generations, my life has been more in line with what’s coming for you. It has been filled with ‘nexts’ and each one can teach you something valuable that you can use in the future.”
Beam recounted several “nexts” from her life since graduating from Mansfield as examples of what the new graduates might expect.
“Much like my life, your life can be a trapeze act of ‘nexts,’” she said. “Each swing taking you somewhere knew to try something new. Right now, you may be thinking about your dream job. I hope it happens for you. But, sometimes your dream job becomes something you never imagined. By being open to and experiencing a variety of ‘nexts,’ you’ll be open to what’s new, what’s different. ‘Nexts’ will challenge you; your ability, your beliefs, your confidence. Think of them as new adventures where you’re going to learn something. Even today, I continue to wonder ‘what’s next’ and I want you to do the same.”
Sarah Kois of Macedon, NY was named this year’s Outstanding Senior. She graduates with a BM in Music Education and a GPA of 3.979.
Kois held leadership positions in the MU Marching Band, Concert Wind Ensemble, Pennsylvania Collegiate Music Educations Association and Sigma Alpha Iota international music fraternity.
She has won the concerto and conducting competitions, multiple music scholarships and served as drum major of the Mansfield Marching Band. In addition, Kois is a member of the Great Lakes Wind Symphony, a professional wind ensemble based out of Rochester, NY.
The Student Government Association (SGA) presented a graduation coin to each graduate. Also, two faculty members who represent tenets of the Mansfield Creed were honored with the current year’s coin for their service to MU students.
SGA Past President Brett Helmus presented recipients Peggy Dettwiler, professor of Music and director of Choral Activities, and Deborah Rotella, assistant professor and chair of the Department of Academic and Human Development, with this year’s coin.
Also during Commencement, Karen Russell ’79 represented the Council of Trustees and introduced Beam. President Sharon Mokrzynski-Kendrick ’81 represented the Alumni Association.
The MU Concert Wind Ensemble, conducted by Professor Adam Brennan, provided musical accompaniment for the event. Erin Haafke was soloist. Campus Minister Courtney Hull delivered the convocation. Assistant Professor Jonathan Rothermel served as grand marshal and Professor Scott Davis was herald.