The weather was clear and the sun was shining as the hangar doors were opened for Vaughn College’s commencement exercises on Saturday, May 17. Over 170 graduates and their families filed into the hangar for the annual ceremony.

After Dr. Paul LaVergne, dean of academic affairs welcomed the crowd, graduates and guests heard from Thomas McKee, chair of the board of trustees; Wajahat Khan, this year’s student speaker; and Dr. Joseph Werner ’57, a Vaughn College alum and board member who received his honorary degree at this year’s commencement.

This year’s commencement speaker was Vaughn President Dr. John C. Fitzpatrick, who retires from his position in July after 17 years as president and 35 years at the College. Fitzpatrick spoke of the successful alumni who came before the class of 2014, and encouraged this year’s class to strive for success and continuous growth in their chosen fields.

“All of you have been a member of the Vaughn community for the past several years, but today is a very special day–today you become a lifetime member,” said Fitzpatrick. “And as a lifetime member of this community, you have the responsibility to broadcast to the world the importance and significance of your Vaughn experience.”

Following the presentation of degrees, graduates and their families were able to meet with faculty and staff members for a celebratory reception.

Vaughn College wishes the best of luck to the class of 2014. For a full list of graduates click here.

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Left: Commencement speaker Dr. John C. Fitzpatrick, president of Vaughn College, congratulates the class of 2014. Right: Graduates toss their caps into the air, bringing the 2014 commencement exercises to a close.