Congratulations to the John Cabot University Class of 2013!
The Class of 2013
On May 13th, John Cabot University held its 41st Commencement Ceremony, celebrating the Class of 2013 at the wonderful Villa Aurelia, located on the Janiculum Hill, overlooking Rome.
The Class of 2013 is the largest in John Cabot University history, with 102 students representing 17 countries throughout the world.
After His Eminence Edwin Cardinal O’Brien’s invocation, President Franco Pavoncello opened the ceremony by congratulating the students for their achievements during this time of economic adversity. “Let this be an opportunity for you to be the architects of a new world and the protagonists of the future, bringing passion and intelligence to whatever you do,” said Pavoncello.
Pavoncello was echoed in his remarks by Chairman of the Board of Trustees Joseph Hagan. Dr. Hagan stated what a privilege it was for John Cabot University to be able to educate and lead such outstanding students.
Wilhelmina Cole Holladay, Founder and Chairman of the Board of the National Museum of Women in the Arts, received a degree of Doctor of Humane Letters honoris causa. A pioneer in the collection of works by female artists, Holladay stressed the significance of having focus and passion in life as master coordinates to shape one’s future.
A Degree of Doctor of Humane Letters honoris causa was also conferred to Cardinal O’Brien. Cardinal O’Brien remarked on the importance of serving the needs of the community while performing one’s duties.
The Class of 2013 Valedictorian was Kirila Cvetkovska, who graduated magna cum laude in with a major in Art History and a minor in Psychology, with a remarkable 3.89 GPA. Kirila’s inspiring speech depicted a multicultural, ever-expanding world where one’s “social and academic responsibility will be to encourage less fortunate people to get involved and where every individual can make a critical contribution.”
Dean of Academic Affairs Mary Merva then presented diplomas to the graduating students who had completed their degrees in the 2012-2013 academic year. Among the degrees conferred were Art History, Business Administration, Communications, Economics and Finance, English Literature, History, International Affairs, and Political Science.
Congratulations to the Class of 2013, and all the best of luck for the future from the entire JCU community. Ad Maiora!
See more photos on the official John Cabot University Facebook page!
