Central Penn College’s 143rd Commencement Showcases the “Literacy of Courage”
Central Penn College’s Commencement speaker, Hagir Elsheikh, urged the black-robed graduates, their families and friends to use their voices for good. That lesson was heeded almost immediately as the packed auditorium in Harrisburg’s Forum Building repeatedly erupted in jubilation at the 143rd Commencement on May 2nd.
The elegant high-ceilinged Forum Building glittered with camera flashes and echoed with applause that ranged from ripples to roars, along with finger whistles, shouted names, and outright screams when each section of the audience came alive after hearing the announcement of their loved one’s name. Many graduates silently acknowledged the crowd by decorating their caps with silk flowers, glitter, photographs, and messages of love and gratitude to their moms.
On an unseasonably warm evening where temperatures hovered in the 80s, the college bestowed more than 200 degrees on students, along with an honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters degree Elsheikh, a prominent Sudanese -American activist, who fled political torture, domestic violence and oppression in Sudan to become a trailblazer in the U.S. as a serial entrepreneur, author, advocate for those with autism, motivational speaker, and global peacekeeper.
Elsheikh shared the lessons of her extraordinary journey to international success in human rights, business and philanthropy. Hagir said her mother may not have been able to read the words on a page but she taught her “the literacy of courage, the kind that raises you up when the whole world pushes you down.” She urged the graduates to speak even when others demand your silence, to use the power in their pain, and to remember that “No one succeeds alone.”
College President Linda Fedrizzi-Williams, Ed.D.,and Provost Krista Wolfe presided over the ceremonies, which included students earning certificate, diploma, associate, bachelor’s and master’s degrees.
Valedictorian was Jessica A. Lahr, who earned a B.S. in Business Administration, reminding the graduates that “E=R” –effort equals results . Salutatorian was Amanda Kratzer, who earned a B.S. in Business Administration as well.
The evening’s other award winners were:
Sidney “Flash” Green – Athletics and Activities Award
Sidney has a 4.0 GPA and was a vital member of the women’s basketball team, earning recognition as a 2X Second Team All-Conference player in the Eastern States Athletic Conference. She was named a USCAA Academic All-American for three consecutive years.
She was an active member of Gamma Beta Phi, where she was named the Most Outstanding Member of the Year in 2023-24. Flash was also a dedicated participant in the Black Student Union and served as an Athletic student worker, all while continuously balancing classroom and job responsibilities.
Olivia Williams- Student Leadership Award
As a Resident Advisor, Olivia played a vital role in fostering a welcoming and supportive community for her peers. and she actively contributes to multiple student organizations.
Olivia volunteered with West Shore Connect and worked with their students throughout their day-to-day activities. She is an active member of the Black Student Union (where she serves as Secretary), Activities Advisory Board, and Student Government Association.
Gabryelle (“Abby”) Breski – Student Service Award
As a passionate photographer, Abbly dedicated countless hours to capturing the spirit of our athletic teams. She also played a key role in the Knightly News Media Club. and volunteered at numerous campus and community service events. She became the first Central Penn student to embrace a mentorship role with the West Shore Connect program.
Mathew White- Military Service Award
Mathew initially served in the Marine Corps as a young adult from 1998 to 2002, then was discharged to attend college. Matthew rejoined the Marine Corps in 2004 to support the war effort. He served 17 more years until he retired in May 2021 as a Master Sergeant. Matthew started classes at Central Penn College two months after that retirement in July 2021. He completed classes continuously through mid-2024, finishing first his bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and then his master’s degree in Organizational Leadership. Now Matthew works at Commonwealth Charter Academy as a Family Involvement Coordinator. He volunteers as a youth leader at Grace Baptist Church of Lewisberry, in York County. He participates in almost every trip and event, including a mission trip to Germany in Summer 2024.
Dasjon Hagans- Legacy Award for Perseverance
Dasjon came to Central Penn in the fall of 2020, just as we were all trying to return to some level of normalcy after COVID. There were many difficulties for Dasjon, and a few delays in progressing forward, but he persevered by his willingness to accept help, by continuing to work toward his goal, and ultimately by achieving his degree.
Dr. Flora Armetta—Todd Milano Faculty Excellence Award
Dr. Ametta was lauded for making students feel seen, heard and valued in a time when it is easy to be invisible.
The ending of the Commencement included the traditional graduate walk through a clapping line of faculty and staff, who cheered, high-fived and hugged the graduates.
