Dear Champlain community,
This is a busy but exciting time of year as we approach the celebration of our graduating students at our Commencement 2022 ceremonies on Saturday, May 14.
I am excited to share this year’s Honorary Degree recipients and speakers. Aly Richards, Chief Executive Officer of Let’s Grow Kids and long-time advocate for early childhood education and policies, will speak to traditional undergraduate students. Nationally renowned journalist and author Garrett Graff will address Champlain College Online students in the afternoon ceremony. I am pleased to recognize these two leaders for their significant contributions, and know their words will inspire students, families, and community members.
The Commencement ceremonies will also feature two student speakers who will address graduates. Izzy Bell, representing traditional undergraduate students, is graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Professional Writing and is from Hamilton, VA. Paula Realbuto, representing Champlain College Online, is graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Business Management. Hailing from Troy, NY, she received an Associate in Science in Paralegal Studies from Champlain in 1988, and will be pursuing her master’s degree at Champlain this fall. In addition, Hilary Delisle, a Champlain College staff member and alumna, will sing the national anthem.
The events will take place at the Champlain Valley Expo in Essex Junction, at 10:00 AM for traditional undergraduates and 3:00 PM for Champlain College Online undergraduate and graduate degree recipients.
We will be following COVID protocols that prioritize the health and safety of all attendees, while allowing students and families to celebrate this important milestone. We ask that all Commencement guests be up-to-date on COVID vaccinations. Unvaccinated guests, such as children under 5 or those with exemptions, are required to test prior to Commencement. We recommend a PCR or LAMP test within 72 hours of Commencement or two at-home rapid antigen tests 24 hours apart the day of and the day before Commencement. We will not be checking vaccine cards or test results at the door. Masking is required at the event, and we also recognize that there are times students and guests may choose to briefly unmask, such as while taking photos, while eating or drinking, or as graduates receive their degrees on stage.
Additional details about our Honorary Degree speakers can be found here, and more information about both ceremonies can be found on the Commencement website. In addition to the in-person ceremony, the College will provide an online broadcast for both ceremonies on this site. Please contact graduation@champlain.edu or feedback@champlain.edu with any questions.
I look forward to celebrating our Class of 2022 and hope you will join me in honoring our students’ achievements.
Sincerely,
Dave Finney
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David Finney
Interim President, Champlain College