On Friday, May 24, the College of Education and Human Development recognized 393 graduates during its Convocation ceremony. We congratulate them on their achievements and wish them all the best as they embark on a life full of opportunities, challenges and success.

This year’s student speaker was Natalie Rube. Natalie graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Teacher Education and a minor in Human Development and Family Studies. She participated in Kappa Delta Pi, Blue Hen Ambassador and the Women’s Club lacrosse team. After sharing the significant “Lasts” that she recognized this year, she urged her classmates to embrace the “Firsts” as they make their dreams a reality.

“There will always be the need for those who want to, and are prepared to, make a difference in the lives of children, adults, and communities. Confidence in ourselves and our desire to create a positive impact will lead us down a challenging, rewarding path. I have faith that we as UD graduates will make that positive impact on the world.”

And Natalie is correct. Our students will make a difference in the world. Our HDFS students gained meaningful teaching experiences in early childhood programs, community settings and elementary schools. They worked with their professors on research projects that ranged from studying non-custodial fathering to improving the quality of early care and education programs. And even presented research at international conferences.

Our SOE students have  completed concentrations that will allow them to receive a second certification in middle school English, middle school math, middle school science, middle school social studies or special education. They will go on to become teachers, go to graduate school or become leaders in their field.

A special congratulations goes out to Rebecca Godwin, ECE, for earning a perfect 4.0 GPA. She was one of 14 UD seniors to earn this remarkable achievement.

And our graduate students sacrificed time with their family, their friends and their personal interests to further pursue their academics, giving them a deeper knowledge and appreciation of their study of choice. With this knowledge, they will be well prepared to help solve the challenges that face our children, families, schools and communities.

Also recognized at Convocation were the first cohort of students earning a Certificate in Career and Life Studies program (CLSC). Developed by faculty in the School of Education and the Center for Disabilities Studies, this two-year program provides students with intellectual disabilities an opportunity to participate and integrate in activities on UD’s campus while taking courses in life skills and career development. Learn more in Newark Post’s article.

Congratulations to you all! We urge you to keep in touch with us, so we can share your accomplishments. Be sure to visit our Alumni webpage and sign up for the CEHD Alumni e-newsletter, Aluminations. 

Pasted from http://www.cehd.udel.edu/congratulations-class-of-2013/.